Coronation Street's Liz Dawn has died, aged 77.

The actress's family confirmed the news this morning, saying that they were "devastated" and "heartbroken" by the news. Dawn, who was best known for her role as Vera Duckworth, passed away last night surrounded by family. Her family's statement reads:

"We are devastated and heartbroken at the passing of our much-loved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great grandmother, the incredible Liz Dawn. Liz died peacefully last night at home with her loving family around her. She has been the love, light and inspiration in our lives and we are bereft at her passing."

Dawn, whose real name was Sylvia Butterfield MBE, joined the Coronation Street cast in 1974. She left the soap in 2008 due to health complications caused by lung condition emphysema. A statement from the soap reads:

"It is with the greatest sadness that we have learned our beloved Liz Dawn has passed away last night. Her family at Coronation Street are heartbroken. We extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathy at this very sad time to Liz’s devoted husband Don, her loving children Graham, Dawn, Ann and Julie, their families and her six grandchildren and three great grandchildren. We have been blessed to have Liz in our lives, as she was such a kind, considerate and caring friend and colleague. As Coronation Street’s Vera Duckworth for 34 years, Liz brought so much joy and happiness to so many. She was a wonderful actress who will forever be a true Coronation Street legend."