Coronation Street and Mrs Brown’s Boys star Frank Grimes dies aged 78

Coronation Street star Frank Grimes has passed away aged 78.

The actor, best known for his role as Barry Connor in the ITV soap, died on August 1 surrounded by his family.

Describing Frank as ‘one of Ireland’s greatest actors,’ The Irish Cultural Centre in London said: he was ‘so warm hearted, full of Dublin wit and charm in abundance and he had a beautiful sparkle in his eyes.

‘We know that Ireland has lost one of it’s truly great actors, the vintage of which is so rare and may never ever be matched again.

‘We are so sad to have to say goodbye to Frank, but we are also so blessed to have known him, to have worked with him and seen him perform.’

The Centre continued: ‘We send our sincere condolences to his wife Ginnette, his daughter Tilly, his son Andrew, his 7 grandchildren and to all his extended family.

‘We also send our condolences to all of Frank’s friends and loved ones – May Frank sleep easy now and Rest In Peace.’

On the cobbles, Frank’s character Barry was the father of Michelle (Kym Marsh), Liam (Rob James-Collier) and Paul (Sean Gallagher).

He made 55 appearances, last appearing in 2015 at the wedding of Michelle to Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson).

Beginning his career on stage, he also made a number of other soap appearances, including in The Bill, Casualty, Holby City and Doctors. In 2013, he starred in BBC sitcom Mrs Brown’s Boys.

He also appeared in Irish soap Fair City.

This is a developing story, more to follow.