There’s very sad news this morning in that it’s been announced that actor Geoffrey Hughes has passed away after a losing his battle with prostate cancer. He was 68.

Geoffrey first shot to fame as bin man Eddie in Coronation Street, a role he played from 1974 to 1983, reappearing in 1987.

He later went on to star in a number of high profile shows – such as Keeping Up Appearances as lay about Onslow, and in Heartbeat – but most recently, he played the role of wide boy Twiggy in The Royle Family. The Sun reports that Geoffrey died “peacefully in his sleep” on Friday night.

Geoff’s Royle Family co-star Ricky Tomlinson paid tribute to his friend, saying, “Geoff wasn’t just an actor, he was my mate…

“I used to call him every few weeks but hadn’t spoken to him in about a fortnight. It’s such a loss.”

A spokesman for Coronation Street added, ““We are very sad to hear of the death of Geoffrey Hughes.

“He created a legendary and iconic character in Eddie Yates who will always be part of Coronation Street.

“Everyone connected with the programme sends our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.”

Street veteran Bill Roache said, “I am so sorry to hear about Geoffrey. He was a warm loveable actor with great comedy timing.

“He will be greatly missed. He was one of the Street’s memorable characters.”

And Anne Kirkbride took to Twitter to say, “The rainbow must have been for him. RIP Geoff. Really sad xx.”

Also, Alan Halsall, who plays Tyrone Dobbs, wrote “Very sad to hear the news about Geoffrey Hughes. May he RIP xx. My thoughts are with his family & friends.”

What terribly sad news. Here’s a reminder of Geoff…