Tears were shed last night as legendary Coronation Street character Vera Duckworth breathed her last on the long-running soap.

Vera, played by Liz Dawn, was seen peacefully dying in her sleep as husband Jack popped to the Rovers Return for a swift half.

Three different ‘death scenes’ had been written by the makers of the soap, with the actual scene filmed in strict security to ensure last night’s denouement was kept under wraps.

Dawn, who is retiring from the show she has appeared in since 1974 because of ill health, says, “It was very emotional filming Vera's death scenes but I do think it was the right decision for the character.

"I have had 33 marvellous years in Coronation Street and will miss everyone very much."

Bill Tarmey, who plays husband Jack, will be staying in the show, but says he is already missing Liz.

“We have never had a cross word. She only left a few weeks ago but I already miss walking on set and seeing her there and I miss working with her," he explains.