Coronation Street legend Jack Duckworth was reported to be "heartbroken" last night after one of his pigeons died in a freak accident.
The bird came to grief after becoming caught up in a tangled storyline.
Granada TV confirmed this morning that the prize-winning bird had been unable to escape when it landed in the middle of a harrowing plot involving Len Fairclough, two wombats, and a jar of pickled gherkins.
Solumn studio chief Wally Walford explained:"The poor little chap was grabbed by the wombats, which is a very painful experience in itself. I can tell you, it's not a nice experience watching a pigeon being systematically gang-raped by two wombats. I am also far from happy that Len saw fit to join in."
Police have not decided whether to remove the pickled gherkins from the crime scene or to leave them in when they barbecue the pigeon.
A memorial service for the TV series is being held.
