Corrie's Jack and Vera in poignant reunion

The much-loved character - played by Bill Tarmey - saw a vision of his wife, who passed away three years ago, in the moments before he too died peacefully in the same armchair.

Diagnosed with terminal cancer, Jack had returned to Weatherfield to spend his last days among his long-time friends and neighbours and had been secretly bestowing gifts on them.

Drifting in and out of consciousness, Vera - played by Liz Dawn - appeared by his side. And, true to form, told him off for not tidying up before they enjoyed one final dance to the Matt Monroe song Softly As I Leave You.

Tyrone, Molly and Connie later returned from the Rovers to find Jack had slipped away.

Tarmey had planned to bow out of the soap more than a year ago, but decided to stay to be part of its 50th anniversary celebrations.

Describing his final story as a "poignant fitting ending to a great character", the actor said: "I have had the most amazing 30 years playing Jack.

"Because of him I have made some fantastic friends and travelled all over the world and I will be sorry to say goodbye to Jack."

Paying tribute to both the actor and character, Coronation Street executive producer Kieran Roberts said: "Bill Tarmey and Jack Duckworth have been a huge part of Coronation Street for 30 years and, like his many millions of fans, everyone who works on the show with Bill were sad to see him go.

"That said we fully respect Bill's decision to retire and we were determined to make sure his character's send off was fitting for one of the show's all-time greats."