Dean Sullivan: Brookside legend who played Jimmy Corkhill has died at the age of 68

Actor Dean Sullivan has died at the age of 68.

Best known for playing Jimmy Corkhill in Liverpool-based soap opera, Brookside, he was set to star in The Atkinson's pantomime this Christmas.

Sullivan's agent confirmed he died peacefully following a short illness on Wednesday (November 29).

A statement by Hamilton Management and Sullivan’s family said: "To millions he was and very much still is remembered as 'Jimmy', to family and friends he was 'Dino'. Dean's family wants to thank Arrowe Park Hospital for their unwavering and consistent support.

"We ask that you respect their privacy in their time of grief."

Tributes to the much-loved Scouser quickly poured in, with fellow actor, Cherly Fergison tweeting: "Sleep sound mate … shocked and saddened to hear the news."

Prostate Cancer UK also paid tribute to Sullivan, who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018. The charity said: "We are saddened to hear of the death of actor, Dean Sullivan.

"Dean did a huge amount to encourage other men to get checked for prostate cancer, stressing the importance of early diagnosis. "We are grateful for Dean’s support and send our condolences to his family."