Coronation Street star passes away at 78

Former Coronation Street star Peter Armitage who played Bill Webster has tragically passed away at just 78.

There has been no cause of death released, Peter had been battling bowel cancer but had announced that he was in remission four years ago.

Photo / ITV

Peter's death was announced on Twitter by a former co-star of his, Charlie Lawson, who plays Jim McDonald.

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

Numerous other Coronation Street stars took to Twitter to pay their respects to the former star including Simon Gregson and Jane Danson.

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

READ MORE: 

• Coronation Street confirms shocking double-departure ahead of Christmas 
• Teen pregnancy rocks Coronation Street 

Peter first appeared in the drama back in 1984 for six months before returning as the same character from 1995 to 1997 and 2006 to 2011.

Rest Easy Peter.