Mark Eden, best known for his portrayal of the villainous Alan Bradley in Coronation Street, has died at the age of 92.

The actor - husband of Corrie legend Sue Nicholls (Audrey) - had been in hospital since November battling Alzheimer's disease and passed away in the early hours of this morning, his agent confirmed.

Alan Bradley, father of Jenny (Sally Ann Matthews), was involved in one of the soap's biggest plots in the 1980s when he terrorised wife Rita before being infamously knocked down and killed by a Blackpool tram.

A statement said: "We are very sad to announce the death of actor Mark Eden.

"He died peacefully, in hospital, earlier today, 1st Jan 2021. Mark had been living with Alzheimer's disease for some time, and was hospitalised in November.

"Mark, 92, had a long career spanning more than 50 years, including eight years in Coronation Street as character Alan Bradley.

"He is survived by his wife Sue, his daughter Polly, his stepson Paul and grand-daughter Emma. We ask that their privacy be respected at this very difficult time."

Eden was also known to fans as Doctor Who for his role in the First Doctor serial Marco Polo.