Coronation Street actress Liz Dawn who played Vera Duckworth for 34 years dies aged 77

Actress Liz Dawn, who played Vera Duckworth in Coronation Street for 34 years, has died aged 77, her family announced.

The actress, who was one of Britain's most loved soap stars, had been battling the debilitating lung condition emphysema after years of smoking, Daily Mail reported.

Liz, who first appeared in Coronation Street in 1974 and was best known for her partnership husband Jack, played by the late Bill Tarmey, became one of the most famous faces on national TV.

She left Corrie in 2008 and more recently her health faltered and she was rushed to hospital after fluid built-up on her lungs around a fortnight ago.

Her family said in a statement: '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.'

- NZ Herald