Coronation Street and Last of the Summer Wine actor Jean Fergusson dies, age 74

"Much loved and respected actress."

Coronation Street actor Jean Fergusson has died at the age of 74. The actor, who was best known for her role as Dorothy Hoyle in the ITV soap, passed away in her home this week Her agent, Scott Marshall Partners, confirmed the news today, stating that Fergusson was a "proud Yorkshire woman who never forgot her roots." "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our much loved client Jean," they said. "Jean died overnight on Wednesday 13 November 2019. There are no further details at present. We are very sad that she is no longer with us and our thoughts are with her family and friends. "Born in Wakefield on 30th December 1944, she was a proud Yorkshire woman who never forgot her roots. Her career spanned more than fifty years and started in repertory playing a variety of roles. "Jean was a much-loved and respected actress, a brilliant comedienne, raconteur and the life and soul of any gathering.  She will be much missed by her many friends and colleagues." Fergusson was also known for her role in BBC sitcom, The Last Of The Summer Wine.  She played Marina in the series for an impressive 216 episodes from 1985 to 2010. Fergusson first appeared in Coronation Street in 1987 as Dr Lowther's sister-in-law Helen Ashcroft, and later as Gary Mallet's mother in 1999. She joined the cast full time as Dorothy Hoyle in 2010 and later departed the following year.