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Maggie Jones - Source: TVNZ
Actress Maggie Jones, who plays Blanche Hunt on Coronation Street , has died aged 75.
ITV reports that Hunt died peacefully in her sleep at Salford Royal Hospital. She had been battling illness since October, and had earlier been reported as making a slow recovery.
Jones first appeared on the show in 1974 as the mother of Deirdre (Barlow) and made periodic appearances, until becoming a full time cast member in 1999.
Jones' portrayal of the acerbic pensioner made her a popular Street character. Blanche's mordent wit punctuated her scenes making her brief screen appearances memorable.
Classic quips such as "Good looks are a curse, Deirdre. You and Kenneth should count yourselves lucky," were typical Blanche fare.
In an episode recently aired in New Zealand, Blanche thought that Ken was gay; and in an upcoming episode she lampoons Postman Pat.
Bill Roche, who plays Blanche's son-in-law Ken Barlow, told ITV: "Maggie was a big part of the Barlow family and a brilliant actress. She had an amazing dry wit and was as funny, if not funnier than Blanche."
He added: "I don't think Maggie ever realised how much she was loved not only by everyone on the show but by the millions of Blanche fans out there. She will be greatly missed."
Along with Coronation Street, Jones' screen credits include appearances in Dalziel And Pascoe, Ruth Rendall Mysteries, Peak Practice and Heartbeat.