Coronation Street legend John Savident has died aged 86.

The actor was best known for playing the butcher Fred Elliott in the ITV soap.

Savident’s agent confirmed news of his death on Friday (23 February).

“We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday 21st February,” an official statement read.

“He was a much-loved husband and father of two and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”

Savident joined the Manchester-based soap in 1994, quickly charming viewers as the haughty, booming-voiced butcher, Fred.

Corrie fans were consistently entertained by Fred’s quirky turns of phrase, including his habit of dotting “I say, I say” into his sentences.

Savident remained a staple part of the programme until October 2006, when Fred died of a stroke. The actor had announced his plans to leave the soap months earlier in December 2005, citing “personal reasons”.