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Peter Armitage death: Coronation Street actor who played Bill Webster, dies aged 78

'Peter was a much respected and much loved member of the Coronation Street family'

Jack Shepherd
Wednesday 05 December 2018 12:17 EST
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Peter Armitage of Coronation Street fame
Peter Armitage of Coronation Street fame (Rex Features)

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Peter Armitage, who was best known for playing Bill Webster on Coronation Street, has died aged 78.

The actor first debuted as Kevin Webster's father on the long-running ITV series more than 30 years ago.

Former co-star Charlie Lawson, who plays Jim McDonald on the programme, announced the news on Twitter.

"It's with great sadness, that I've to tell you my great old friend Pete Armitage has died," he wrote. "RIP mate."

No cause of death has been revealed. Armitage went into remission from bowel cancer four years ago.

An ITV spokesperson confirmed the news, saying "Peter was a much respected and much loved member of the Coronation Street family. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."

Other Coronation Street stars to pay tribute include Simon Gregson (Steve McDonald) and Jane Danson (Leanne Battersby).

Armitage first appeared on the show in 1984 for sixth months, returning once again in 1995. The actor was also known for having parts in the 1988 series Jack the Ripper and 1995 series Hearts and Minds. He is survived by his two children.

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