Farewell to Vera

An estimated 12.5 million Coronation Street fans tuned in to the tear-jerking episode in which former pub landlady Vera Duckworth breathed her last. The much-loved character, played by actress Liz Dawn, passed away peacefully in her sleep while husband Jack was in the Rovers Return pub.

"I have had 33 marvellous years in Coronation Street and will miss everyone very much," said 68-year-old Liz. "It was very emotional filming Vera's death scenes but I do think it was the right decision for the character." The star, who was awarded an MBE in 2000, has retired from the soap to spend time with her family after revealing she is suffering from emphysema.