Coronation Street's William Roache left heartbroken at the death of his daughter
She passed away at the age of 50
Last updated 7th Mar 2018
Coronation Street legend William Roache has been left heartbroken after it emerged his oldest daughter Vanya has passed away at the age of only 50.
William, who is famous for playing the role of Ken Barlow in the soap, has been given compassionate leave by bosses at Coronation Street in this difficult time.
Reports are suggesting that 50-year-old Vanya sadly passed away on Friday, but the cause of her death has not yet been revealed.
Tragically, Vanya is the second child William has had to mourn the death of. Back in 1983, William's daughter Edwina lost her life to pneumonia at the age of just 18 months.
A source close to Coronation Street said, "No father should have to go through the loss of a child, let alone two. ITV are giving him all the time he needs but he’s understandably very upset."
William has been told to take a long as he needs off from the soap, with no set date for his return.
The 85-year-old is the longest standing character on Coronation Street, with William appearing on the first ever episode way back in 1960.
William was awarded with an MBE in 2001 New Years Honours, given to him by the Queen.