Coronation Street star Alison King has penned a heartfelt message after her mentor's death.
The 49-year-old actor is renowned for her role as Carla Connor in Weatherfield. The character first arrived on the Cobbles in 2006 and quickly became a fan favourite on the show.
Alison's career was kickstarted by the founder of Oldham's Theatre Workshop, David Johnson. Stars across the world have taken to social media to pay tribute to David's legacy after his sad death.
READ MORE: Coronation Street's Millie Gibson declares co-star 'love of her life' as fans swoon
Alison does not have any social media accounts, but co-star Antony Cotton took to Twitter last night to issue a message on her behalf She said: "R.I.P my absolute hero.
"My maker of all things that I am, and where I am today, my teacher, of who I was 27 years ago, years that taught my thing about myself that I never knew, but have carried with me to this date. You were strict and yet the kindest man to me I have ever known.
"You were intuitive, and insightful, and gave me and so many other I've loved and adored working with over the years, the opportunity to shine. You gave me my best friend Emma. If it wasn't for your I would never have had my beautiful daughter Daisy who is filled with love for the arts, a response of your teachings. And so many of us. David Johnson.
"From the day you started a term, with a good haircut and new shiny leather shoes, until the end of term, when they'd be curled up and your hair in a beautiful bouffant! Bigger than we all could cope with on a Monday morning. You were the sharpest, most aware human being of others creatively, and how to teach them to show it, I have ever known."
David also helped launch the careers of Antony Cotton, Kelvin Fletcher and Anna Friel. He spoke to the Manchester Evening News in 2015 about how fortunate he was to work with such talented actors. He added: “Nearly all the people I have worked with have gone on to appear in TV and film. We have got such wonderful, wonderful talent in this area and they have been so lovely with me.”
Followers flooded the comments to offer messages of support after Alison's touching tribute.
Nancy said: "This is wonderful. It is a good example of what a good teacher can do. Allison is wonder to acknowledge what a great teacher she had"
Emma added: "Beautiful words Alison."
Jenny tweeted : "RIP David send my love and condolences to Ali and you Antony"
Receive newsletters with the biggest and breaking TV and showbiz news by signing up here
