Death of long-suffering actor

Press, 29 August 1984, Page 14

Death of long-suffering actor

NZPA-PA London Bernard Youens, who played the boozy window cleaner, Stan Ogden, in “Coronation Street,” died in hospital yesterday after a long battle against ill health. He was 69. His left leg was amputated last month after he suffered a stroke in May. A Granada TV press officer said that Youens had died peacefully in his sleep. Youens played the lovable layabout in the long-running

television series for 20 years but serious health problems dogged him off-screen. He suffered several heart attacks, had been crippled by arthritis, and had suffered a severe stroke two years ago which left him With a speech impediment. One of the first tributes came from the actress, Jean Alexander, who played his screen wife, Hilda Ogden. “I shall miss him more than I can say,” she said. “We shared a friendship and

a 20-year partnership which, in its way, has made television history. "He created a marvellous character and he will be missed by everyone.” William Roache, who plays Ken Barlow, said: “Although I suppose we were to some extent prepared for this, it doesn’t lessen the feeling of loss, both for his persona and for the ‘Street.’ “Having known Bernard Youens for 20 years it makes this an even greater

sadness for me.” Betty Driver, who plays Betty Turpin, said: “He was a wonderful colleague to work with. I am glad his sufferings are at an end.” Youens joined “Coronation Street” in June, 1964, in the 370th episode, and went on to appear in 1200 more. He was last seen on screen in Britain on March 7 The actor, who died in Salford Royal Hospital, leaves a widow and five children.