Actor William Roache, known for playing Ken Barlow, Deirdre Barlow’s husband in Coronation Street, is said to be devastated at the sudden death of Anne Kirkbride who played his on-screen wife for so many years.
William Roache said: “I feel Anne’s loss so personally having worked closely with her for over 40 years. She was such a loving and vibrant person. You always knew she was there because her laugh was never far away.
“She was an impeccable performer with superb comedy timing and an immense gift for really heightened drama. We had some rows over the years as Ken and Deirdre and it was wonderful to play those scenes opposite her.
“Coronation Street has lost one of its iconic characters and Anne will be greatly missed.”