Coronation Street stars and fans celebrated the life of Anne Kirkbride during a memorial service at Manchester Cathedral today.
Members of the cast and crew of the ITV1 soap paid tribute to the actress who played the role of Deirdre Barlow for more than 40 years.
Kirkbride, 60, was one of the show’s most famous stars and was loved for her portrayal of husky-voiced Deidre, famed for many years for wearing oversized spectacles.
She died in January following a battle with cancer.
The memorial was conducted by the Cathedral’s Sub Dean, Philip Barratt, with hymns sang by Manchester Cathedral choir.
Readings and tributes were also given by her co-stars including William Roache (Ken Barlow), Beverley Callard (Liz McDonald), Elle Mulvaney (Amy Barlow) and executive producer Kieran Roberts.
Her husband Dave Beckett has helped the Coronation Street production team produce the service and has been involved in every aspect of the celebration including the choice of music and readings.
Coronation Street actress Anne Kirkbride dies aged 60
Images of the actress in her role as Deirdre and photographs taken with her real life family were displayed during the service.
An exhibition of artwork which Kirkbride photographed and painted throughout her life will also be on view.
The service began at 11.30am.
