Coronation Street star pays tribute to Helen Worth after final scene airs

TM: Sharon Marshall discusses Gail Platt's Corrie exit

Coronation Street’s eagerly awaited Christmas episode marked Helen Worth’s final ever episode as Gail Platt after first appearing on the Cobbles in 1974.

Her emotional departure saw Gail finally find happiness after seven weddings, as she tied the knot with Jesse Chadwick (John Thomson) and bid farewell to her loved ones.

Although fans were divided by the haunting storyline, Worth’s co-stars honoured her dedication to the character.

This included her on-screen grandson Jude who Riordan stars as Sam Blakeman.

The youngster took to Instagram with a touching photo alongside Worth to share that he would “really miss her.”

Riordan shared: “Granny Gail, Helen is one of the kindest human beings I've ever worked with. She was lovely to me from my very first day.

“Lots of chats, lots of laughs, I'll really miss her. A true icon that I was lucky enough to work with and have as my telly Gran.”

After five remarkable decades on ITV, Worth issued a moving statement to fans, expressing her gratitude for their loyalty throughout the years.

She penned: “Hello, all of you. It's wonderful to have this opportunity to say, ta ta.

Helen Worth left Corrie as Gail Platt after 50 years (Image: ITV)

“It's been a fabulous fifty years, and I just wanted to thank all of you, some of you who may have been watching for fifty years. Is there anybody? And those of you who've been watching for a few years. Thank you.”

This comes after Worth’s long-time colleague Elieen Grimshaw admitted that she’s ”devastated” by the actress’ departure from the soap.

She said on Loose Women: “Helen leaving, I can't tell you it's really awful, it's really sad. We are all devastated. I mean she has deserved it, I mean 50 years is extraordinary isn't it.

“One thing I tell you is, she is the most generous, empathetic, humble human being you will ever meet, and everybody loves her.”