Legendary Coronation Street creator and acclaimed writer Tony Warren MBE has died aged 79.

Tony passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving friends, following a short illness.

Considered to be one of the television industry’s best, he created the soap aged just 24 and was a consultant until the day he died, a true testament to what he meant to the show.

The official Coronation Street website reads:

"All who worked with Tony throughout his illustrious career had the utmost respect for his achievements".

John Whiston, Creative Director, Soaps for ITV Studios paid a moving tribute to Tony:

“Amid the many and much deserved tributes to Tony Warren, surely there can be no greater tribute than that the show he created 56 years ago is still the number one show on British TV. Tony infused Coronation Street with his own spirit, one that was at the same time dramatic and credible, exciting and grounded, funny and humane.

"It is Tony's spirit that has kept the show fresh and relevant all these years and will do for years to come. All who are lucky enough to work on the show owe Tony a huge amount of gratitude. As do all the millions who tune into Coronation Street week after week.”

Tributes have been pouring in from Coronation Street cast and fans, led by Bill Roache who worked with Tony from the show's beginning:

“When I first met Tony I couldn’t quite believe he’d created and written Coronation Street because he was no more than a young boy. It was his boyish energy even recently when I saw him again that I’ll remember. I loved Tony’s energy.

"He was the father of Coronation Street and he gave us all so much. He will be so desperately missed because of who he was and what he did. We owe him so much.”

With heavy heart & great sadness I can confirm that our pal Tony Warren has died. He leaves the greatest legacy. I'll miss him so much

— Antony Cotton (@antonycotton) March 2, 2016

So sad to hear this R.i.p tony and thank you xxx https://t.co/57SIJcWCfT

— Jane Danson (@RealJaneDanson) March 2, 2016

With such sadness today we say goodbye to the great Tony Warren. An amazing man, a true legend. We owe him so much. He will be sadly missed

— Kym Marsh (@msm4rsh) March 2, 2016

I am so sad to hear Tony Warren has passed away. What an incredible man. I am honoured to have worked with him on his amazing show ❤️❤️

— Georgia May Foote (@georgiafoote) March 2, 2016