Doreen Keogh dead: Coronation Street and Father Ted star dies aged 91

The Irish TV star played barmaid Concepta Riley from the first episodes of Coronation Street

Actor Doreen Keogh, who starred in Coronation Street, Father Ted and the Royle Family has died aged 91.

Keogh died “peacefully” on New Year’s Eve, her family said.

The Irish actor played barmaid Concepta Riley from the first episodes of the soap opera and appeared for four years. She returned to the show several times in the 1960s and 70s.

John Whiston, the Creative Director at ITV Studios, told the Mirror: “All at Coronation Street are sad to hear about the death of Doreen Keogh.

“There have been many barmaids in the Rovers over the years, dispensing pints and wisdom in equal measure. But Doreen played the first and so has a unique place not just in the history of the show but in the affection of all who watch The Street."

She also had recurring roles in the Royle Family, where she played neighbour Mary Carroll, appearing in nine episodes of the programme.

In the 1990s she played the character Mrs Dineen in two episodes of Father Ted. A memorable scene included her having a fight with Mrs Doyle because both wanted to pay the bill at a tea shop.

Her niece and nephews Laurence, Matthew and Christina Keogh said in a statement: “Our auntie Doreen died peacefully in Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, Ireland, on New Year’s Eve after a long illness.”

“She is known for the parts she played in prominent TV series including Coronation Street, Ballykissangel, Father Ted, The Royle Family, Cold Feet, Fair City, Z Cars, Crossroads and others.

“She also had many stage and film roles, including a part in the 1960 the Blake Edwards-directed musical Darling Lili with Julie Andrews and Rock Hudson.”

The statement added: “Although born In Dublin, she coached Barbra Streisand in the art of speaking in a cockney accent for Streisand’s 1970 film, On a Clear Day You Can See Forever.”

She is survived by her husband, Jack Jenner.