Star's comedy and pathos made Fred one of Corrie greats

FORMER BOSSES AND COLLEAGUES PAY TRIBUTE TO STREET FAVOURITE

- JESSICA SANSOME

CORONATION Street stars and bosses have paid tribute to Fred Elliott star John Savident, after his death at the age of 86.

It was announced yesterday that the actor, famed for playing butcher Fred in the ITV soap, had died earlier this week.

A statement from his agent confirmed the news. It said: "We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday 21 February, he was a much-loved husband and father of-two and will be sorely missed by all who knew him." In 1994, John arrived on the cobbles and quickly became a fan favourite. He was known for his booming voice while playing the local butcher on the soap. His storylines involved his

disastrous love life - including three marriages and several failed proposals. Secret son Ashley Peacock, played by Steven Arnold, also arrived on the show and the two later developed a close bond as they formed a hilarious double-act.

Following the news, lain MacLeod, ITV's executive producer for continuing drama said: "Everyone at Coronation Street is deeply saddened to learn of John Savident's death.