Corrie actor Geoffrey Hughes, 68, dies after two year cancer battle

By Emily Sheridan

PUBLISHED: 13:34 EST, 28 July 2012 | UPDATED: 13:34 EST, 28 July 2012

Former Coronation Street actor Geoffrey Hughes has died of cancer. He was 68.

The Merseyside-born star died 'peacefully in his sleep' on Friday night, according to his family.

His death comes after a 'long courageous battle' with prostate cancer.

Comic timing: Geoffrey Hughes, pictured as Onslow in Keeping Up Appearances, has died at the age of 68

Comic timing: Geoffrey Hughes, pictured as Onslow in Keeping Up Appearances, has died at the age of 68

The actor, who lives on the Isle Of Wight, was best known for playing binman Eddie Yates in Corrie for nine years until the early 80s.

He also won over fans as Hyacinth's lazy brother-in-law Onslow in Keeping Up Appearances.

In the Noughties he landed two big roles - playing wheeler dealer Vernon Scripps in Hearbeat and Twiggy in The Royle Family.

Soap star: Geoffrey as Eddie Yeates with Veronica Doran as Marion Yeats in Coronation Street

Soap star: Geoffrey as Eddie Yeates with Veronica Doran as Marion Yeats in Coronation Street

Prior to his cancer battle, Hughes played Uncle Keith in an episode of teen drama Skins.

A Corrie spokesperson said: '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.'

Leading the tributes were his former Coronation Street co-star William Roache: 'I am so sorry to hear about Geoffrey. He was a warm, lovable actor, with great comedy timing.

Lovable rogue: Geoffrey as Vernon Scripps in Heartbeat

Lovable rogue: Geoffrey as Vernon Scripps in Heartbeat

'He will be greatly missed, one of the Street's memorable characters.'

Corrie co-star Charlie Condou wrote on Twitter: 'The wonderful Geoffrey Hughes (Eddie Yates) has lost his battle with cancer. RIP and thanks for all the laughs.'

Ricky Tomlinson, who starred alongside Geoffrey in The Royle Family, told ITV Meridian News: '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.'

The actor started his acting career after leaving school, performing in several West End productions.

Comedy star: Geoffrey played Twiggy alongside Liz Smith as Nan in The Royle Family

Comedy star: Geoffrey played Twiggy alongside Liz Smith as Nan in The Royle Family

It wasn't until 1974 he received his big break, playing Eddie Yates in Coronation Street.

Although he left the Weatherfield soap in 1983, he briefly returned in 1987 as part of HIlda Ogden's farewell storyline.

Hughes has also guest starred in episodes of Doctor Who, Casualty, Boon and The Upper Hand.

In 2009, he was appointed Deputy Lord Lieutenant for the Isle of Wight, making him 'the official link between the island and royalty at formal engagements'.

Geoffrey, who was diagnosed with cancer two years ago, is survived by his wife Susan.

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