Former Coronation Street star Stephen Hancock has died at the age of 89.
The ITV soap paid a tribute to the County Durham-born actor and musician, who died on November 1, reported The Guardian.
Stephen Hancock with his Coronation Street castmates in 1974 (PA)
Hancock, who is survived by two daughters, is best known for playing Weatherfield regular Ernest Bishop from 1967 until 1978.
His character was killed off on screen during a bungled burglary at Mike Baldwin’s factory, after the actor had a real-life salary dispute with the soap’s producers.
His soap alter-ego also married Emily Nugent, played by Eileen Derbyshire, on Corrie in 1972.
Emily Nugent (Eileen Derbyshire) marries Ernest Bishop (Stephen Hancock) in 1972 (ITV/Rex)
A spokeswoman for Corrie 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.”
Stephen Hancock in There Goes The Bride (ITV/Rex)
Hancock, who was the elder brother of EastEnders actor Christopher Hancock, 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.
