Coronation Street legend, Alan Rothwell dies aged 89

Alan Rothwell, who played David Barlow, the brother of Ken Barlow (William Roache) on the long-running ITV soap, died on Thursday, following a short illness.

Mr Rothwell’s family said he died “peacefully in hospital”.

In a statement, his family said: “Alan was a professional radio, television, film and stage actor and director whose career spanned more than 70 years.

“Beyond his professional achievements, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle.

“He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and the many people whose lives he touched through his work.”

Coronation Street’s Alan Rothwell dies aged 89

Born in Oldham in 1937, Mr Rothwell was a prolific actor in the 1960s, appearing in TV series such as Gideon’s Way and The Villains.

Coronation Street creator Tony Warren, who had worked with Rothwell on BBC Radio’s Children’s Hour during their childhoods, created the role of David Barlow specifically for him.

William Roache paid tribute to his former colleague.

Mr Roache said: “I am very sorry to hear of Alan’s passing.

“He and I worked together on the very first episodes of Coronation Street, which was such a wonderful time, I got to know him well over the years, he was a very good actor and a delightful man.

“I send my thoughts and condolences to his family.”

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Mr Rothwell also appeared as Nicholas Black in Brookside during the 1980s and was the presenter of children’s television programmes Picture Box and Hickory House.

He said: “We’re very sorry to hear of Alan Rothwell’s passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his family at this very sad time.

“He created an iconic and memorable character in David Barlow and will forever be remembered as one of the original cast members of Coronation Street.”