Actor Bill Tarmey, who won a place in the hearts of millions for his 30+ years-long role as Jack Duckworth, has passed away at the age of 71.

Tarmey appeared in Coronation Street from 1979 to 2010 as Jack, the long-suffering husband to Vera Duckworth, played by Liz Dawn. The constantly bickering pair won the adoration of millions across the UK as one of the country's best loved on-screen couples throughout their time on screen. It was also his character's love of beer, his pigeons, and the occasional bet (that Vera alway found out about) as well as his amicable personality that made him one of soaplands most revered characters.

Tarmy's family confirmed the news of his death at his home in Tenerife, Spain, today (Nov 9) asking the press and public for "privacy as they grieve for a wonderful husband, father and brother".

Tarmey leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Alison, and their two children, following his death. The actor stepped down from his long-running stint on the show in 2010 as he battled ill health, as well as wanting to help care for his son Carl, who was battling a brain tumour at the time.

His on-screen wife, who 'passed away' on the show in 2008, led the way in tributes for Bill, who said that he was a "lovely man and a true gentleman."

Fellow Corrie stars including William Roache, who plays Ken Barlow, and Alan Halsall, who plays Tyrone Dobbs - who as a boy was taken in by the loving Duckworth family - are but two of the stars to give the late soap star their best wishes on this sad day.