TV soap star dies aged 78

Tony Peers, an actor known for his roles in Coronation Street and Emmerdale, has died at the age of 78.
The actor appeared in Coronation Street as three different characters over the years. He played a delivery man, a dealer, and then Gary Mallett’s father Peter (Picture: Tony Peers Ltd)

Tony was born in Wigan. He appeared in Coronation Street in 1994, 95 and 1999. He went on to become a comedian. His company, Tony Peers Limited, announced his death (Picture: Tony Peers Ltd)

In a statement, they wrote: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce that Scarborough showbiz legend Tony Peers has taken his final bow. Our wonderful producer, manager and friend sadly fell asleep for the last time in the early hours of this morning. All at Tony Peers Limited are devastated by this news and in Tony’s words “the show must go on”' (Picture: Alamy Stock Photo)

'We will be continuing to lead all future productions and keeping Tony’s pantomime legacy alive across the country for years to come.’ Tony portrayed a number of guest roles in Emmerdale across sixteen years – the first of these was a construction worker in May 1987 (Picture: ITV/Shutterstock)

He later played a dance hall MC, and recurring character Bryan Dodds between April and October 2003. (Picture: Alamy Stock Photo)

Bryan was an acquaintance of Lisa Dingle (Jane Cox), who wanted to make their friendship more intimate – even planning an elaborate date in Hotten (Picture: ITV/Shutterstock)