The former Coronation Street actor John Saint Ryan has died at the age of 72 following a heart attack, his wife has shared.

Ryan played the role of lorry driver Charlie Whelan from 1993 to 1994, after having made a guest appearance as a barman in a 1987 episode of the ITV soap.

He also made a number of appearances in films and TV, including guest roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Babylon 5, Gargoyles and L.A. Heat.

In a statement made on social media, his wife Joyce said: "I and our family want to let our friends know that John had a heart attack the evening of Thursday 3rd of April.

RIP John Saint Ryan, whose family posted on his FB page died of heart attack on April 3.
Ryan co-starred in late period Cannon Films........

© South Wales Argus