Tributes paid to Corrie stalwart

The Coronation Street cast has paid tribute to stalwart Bill Tarmey, who is leaving the soap after three decades.

The 69-year-old confirmed that he is bowing out as Jack Duckworth following the show's 50th anniversary celebrations later this year.

Brooke Vincent, who plays Sophie Webster, told The Mirror that Tarmey was a "lovely and helpful" colleague. "He's like the grandfather of the set so it's terrible news in a way," she said.

Ken Morley, who played Reg Holdsworth, said that it was "brilliant" working with Tarmey, who now deserves to enjoy some time with his family. Kevin Kennedy, who played Curly Watts, described the actor as a "national treasure", while Johnny Briggs, who played factory boss Mike Baldwin, praised his comedy timing and wished his friend a happy retirement.

"He was always one of the good guys and a very fine comedy actor with the timing of Hancock. He did so much to develop Jack right down to putting that bit of sticking plaster on his glasses. And his long double act with Liz was just superb," he said.