Updated: Bill Tarmey 'cutting back on Corrie'

Bill Tarmey will reduce the hours he works on Coronation Street in light of his continuing health problems, it has been claimed.

According to The Sun, the show will accommodate the Tarmey's decision by having his character Jack Duckworth leave Weatherfield.

Jack will move out of the house he shared with Vera (Liz Dawn) and move in with millionaire lover Connie Rathbone (Rita May) in Middleton.

In his "farewell" episode, Jack will leave the house with Vera's ashes under one arm and stuffed pigeon Fergie under the other.

Jack will say: "Well Vee, I suppose this is it. Everybody knows we had more than our share of ups and downs between these walls.

"But we were happy here until you decided to sneak off to heaven before closing time. It's not like Connie will ever replace you. You know that don't you, my little puddle-duck? Aye, I'm sure you do."

A spokesperson this morning confirmed: "Bill's episodes haven't been reduced so viewers will still see him. Jack going off to live with Connie just means he can come and go a bit more."

Tarmey recently denied reports that he was poised to quit the programme.