Adele Rose, best known for being a scriptwriter on Coronation Street for almost 40 years, has died at the age of 87.

During a prolific and distinguished career, Rose was also co-creator of the seminal BBC kids series Byker Grove and worked on classic shows such as Robin's Nest, Z-Cars and Bless This House.

Rose made her Corrie writing debut in episode 40 - broadcast on May 1, 1961 - and went on to pen more than 450 episodes until April 1998, making her the soap's longest-serving scriptwriter.

News of her death was announced by husband Peter Chadwick, who told Chronicle Live that she had died of pneumonia on Monday.

"She developed pneumonia about a week ago and never got over it," he said. "She passed away in the local hospital, where she had the best care.

"She had a huge sense of humour which was often quite naughty and quite wicked. She loved writing the battleaxes in Coronation Street."

Rose is survived by Chadwick, a son and one grandson.