Coronation Street’s Anne Kirbride tragically died after a short battle with breast cancer earlier this year.
Ever since, the Corrie team have been working carefully to craft the perfect farewell for her on-screen persona, Deirdre Barlow, whom she played for forty years in the soap.
And, from what we can gather, the scenes are set to be extremely emotional.
Deirdre was last seen on screen in October 2014 when she decided to escape the pressures of home life, in order to spend some time with her friend Bev Unwin.
And, according to sources, upcoming scenes will show the Barlows getting ready to welcome Deirdre back to Weatherfield.
However Bev - played by Susie Blake, who will return to the show in a one-off appearance - soon arrives with heartbreaking news.
They revealed: “Ken will be seen writing a card addressed to ‘My darling wife’ before everyone gathers at the Rovers, ready to welcome Deirdre home.
“But just before, Bev turns up and reveals that Deirdre has died.”
“The scenes will be absolutely heartbreaking to watch. Bosses devoted a lot of time and effort to ensuring Deirdre’s death was both sensitively explained and befitting a ‘Corrie’ legend"
Bev will go on to explain that Deirdre died "peacefully" in her garden after packing her bags to return to Weatherfield.
And, as Deirdre's friends and family sob, Bev will present her wedding ring to husband Ken (Bill Roache) in a final poignant gesture.
“Tracy [Kate Ford] just breaks down and howls as Steve [Simon Gregson] comforts her, and Ken sits there in stunned silence.”
They added that, understandably, the cast were left sobbing tears of genuine grief as they filmed the emotionally-charged scenes.
“The scenes will be absolutely heartbreaking to watch. Bosses devoted a lot of time and effort to ensuring Deirdre’s death was both sensitively explained and befitting a ‘Corrie’ legend,” they finished.
You can watch Anne Kirkbride’s final appearance as Deirdre Barlow below:
It was announced earlier today that Ann will be honoured at this year’s British Soap Awards, with on-screen husband William Roache and close friend Bev Callard presenting the Outstanding Achievement award in honour of the late actress.
Her real-life husband, David Beckett, will collect the award on her behalf.