Coronation Street's Jack Duckworth actor Bill Tarmey dies

The much loved Coronation Street actor, famed for playing Jack Duckworth in the long-running soap, has died.

Bill Tarmey, 71, passed away this morning (09.11.12) in Tenerife.

A family spokesman said: 'The family of Bill Tarmey have confirmed that he sadly passed away this morning in Tenerife.

'They have respectfully asked the media for privacy as they grieve for a wonderful husband, father and brother.'

Another statement from the ITV soap headquarters read: 'The cast, crew and production team at Coronation Street are devastated to hear of Bill's death.

Tarmey quit the Street in 2010 after over 30 years as the pigeon loving, loveable rogue.

A life-long heavy smoker, he suffered had previously suffered a heart attack and stroke.

He leaves behind wife Alma, son Carl and daughter Sara.

His final scenes in the show saw Jack dying peacefully in his armchair at No.9 Coronation Street after attending his 74th birthday party at the Rovers Return pub.

You can view the poignant last moments below.