Coronation Street star Tony Peers has passed away at the age of 78. The Wigan-born performer graced the ITV soap on multiple occasions, taking on roles as a delivery driver, scrap merchant and finally Peter Mallett – Gary Mallett’s father.

His colleagues at Tony Peers Ltd shared the sad news of his passing on Wednesday, stating: “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.’ We will be continuing to lead all future productions and keeping Tony’s pantomime legacy alive across the country for years to come.”

Tony launched his entertainment journey during the 1960s, initially working at Butlins. He also made several appearances on Emmerdale over the years including a role as a construction worker and as the character Bryan Dodds. Throughout his career, he secured parts in Heartbeat, Rik Mayall Presents, All Creatures Great and Small and Last of the Summer Wine – which was his final television appearance in 2004.

Beyond his acting pursuits, Tony managed entertainment at the Butlins Grand Hotel during the 1980s before establishing Tony Peers Productions in 1999 – his personal venture specialising in summer productions and festive pantomimes, reports the Mirror.

Representatives from Scarborough Spa – the venue for numerous Tony productions – released a tribute: “Everyone at the Scarborough Spa is saddened to hear of the passing of Tony Peers.

“Tony, who was involved in over 2,500 shows at the Spa as a performer, director, and latterly as producer of the famous Spa summer shows and Christmas pantomimes, passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by family and friends.”

Tony’s life was shared with his partner Glenda for 35 years until he passed. In a heartfelt chat with The Scarborough News back in 2018, Tony reflected: “She is the least showbiz person I know. Everyone in this business is an insecure, self-absorbed egomaniac. I would get home from the Spa and start talking about work – after two minutes Glenda would be on to other things.

“She taught me there is more to the world than dressing up and messing about. Family is what it is all about.”