FORMER Coronation Street star Stephen Hancock, who was born in County Durham, has died at the age of 89.
The ITV soap paid a tribute to the actor and musician, who died on November 1, reported The Guardian.
Hancock, who is survived by two daughters, is best known for playing Weatherfield regular Ernest Bishop from 1967 until 1978.
He was born in Bishop Auckland.
His character was killed off on screen during a bungled burglary at Mike Baldwin's factory, after having a real-life salary dispute with the soap's producers.
A spokeswoman for the show said: "We are saddened to hear of Stephen's death and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.
"In Ernest Bishop, Stephen created a character that will always be remembered by Coronation Street fans. Ernest's dramatic exit from the soap is still one of the most memorable moments in the show's history."
Hancock, who was the elder brother of EastEnders actor Christopher Hancock, also appeared in Sounding Brass, Victoria Wood: As Seen On TV and Agatha Christie: Poirot following his departure from the cobbles.
The actor, who also starred in ITV medical series Emergency - Ward 10, was married to actress Jocelyne Page, who died in 2012. The couple had two children, actor-turned-casting director Gemma and actress Phyllida.
- A full story will appear in Thursday's The Northern Echo
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