Former Coronation Street star Roy Barraclough, who was best known for playing Rovers Return landlord Alec Gilroy, has died at the age of 81 following a short illness.
The Lancashire-born actor, who will also be remembered for his bickering relationship with his on-screen wife Bet Lynch played by Julie Goodyear during his time on the soap, passed away on Thursday according to his agent.
"My dearest friend Roy Barraclough has passed away at 6am this morning. I have no words to describe how devastated I feel," Goodyear said a statement about her co-star.
"We kept in close touch and spoke to each other at least two or three times every week.
"I will treasure all the happy times we had working and laughing together. We were just like a married couple, crazy, I know, but true."
Rest in peace Roy. I will always love you.
Barraclough first made an appearance on the cobbles in 1972 and played the part of a talent scout in the early '70s before becoming a regular cast member from 1986 until the early '90s.
He made a brief return to Weatherfield in 1996 but made his final appearance in 1998.
His performances as one half of the double act Cissie and Ada with comedian Les Dawson in the 1970s and 80s were also loved by TV viewers. Barraclough's other TV work includes roles in Casualty, Last Of The Summer Wine and Last Tango In Halifax.
Last year, Barraclough appeared in the BBC's one-off tribute to Are You Being Served? as Mr Grainger.
In 2006, he was awarded the MBE for services to drama and his charity work. His philanthropic efforts included more than 20 years as a patron of Willow Wood Hospice in Greater Manchester.
We are saddened to hear that Roy Barraclough has passed away.
— Coronation Street (@itvcorrie) June 1, 2017
Here's an example of the warmth and love he brought to his role as Alec Gilroy pic.twitter.com/yfEhxpJ4Aj
