Coronation Street Blog

Corrie A-Z: D is for Double Acts

noreply@blogger.com (Llifon) — Mon, 20 May 2013 04:27:11 PDT

Coronation Street is known for its assortments of double acts or partnerships over the years. They have ranged from married couples to simply best friends and colleagues. The original double act was Jack and Annie Walker back in 1960 and they provided much humour in the show during the show’s first decade. Their success was due to their clashing personalities – Annie the snob and down-to-earth Jack.

Also a wonderful double act in the early years was Gamma Garments team Mr Swindley and Miss Nugent. The backbone of their partnership was Miss Nugent’s admiration and love for an unwitting Swindley. Like the Walkers, the duo had wonderful chemistry and provided the light relief in the early 1960s. Their musings in the snug over the goings-on of the street brought a smile to everyone. While the Swindley and Nugent partnership ended in 1965, the Walkers double act lasted until 1970.

By the 1970s, Stan and Hilda Ogden had established themselves as a great double act. Their arguments over various things provided many laughs and although the residents were exasperated by them, they were much loved by the nation. The Ogdens could do both humour and drama but it is the humour that they’re best remembered for with Hilda doing all the running while Stan sat supping at the Rovers or in his chair doing the pools regularly featured in episodes.

In 1973 another double act was born when feisty Rita Littlewood employed prissy Mavis Riley at the newly opened Kabin. Again it was the chalk and cheese personalities that cemented the partnership and made them well loved. The stationery duo lasted for 24 years and is second to the Duckworths for being the longest running double act on the cobbles. Rita and Mavis were the best of friends and were a rock to each other during their relationship troubles. Although the partnership lasted until 1997, I have to say, its golden age was the 1970s and 1980s.

While Mavis’ partnership with Rita was successful, she also enjoyed a wonderful double act with boyfriend and later hubby Derek Wilton. They first met in 1976 and enjoyed an on/off romance until their eventual wedding in 1988. The duo’s tenure ended upon Derek’s death in 1997.

With the Ogdens’ partnership coming to end in 1984 upon Stan’s death, there was a need to fill the void. And who better than Jack and Vera Duckworth? Echoing the Ogden partnership, the Duckworths were always seen arguing and often publicly, be it in the street or the Rovers. Their hilarious antics provided Corrie with some of its golden moments, be it with their stone cladding or their time behind the Rovers bar. The partnership lasted for 27 years and holds the record of longest running partnership and with the Ogdens, are the soap’s most popular couples.

Grocer Alf Roberts married gad-about Audrey Potter in 1985 and a wonderful partnership began as did happen when Rovers landlady Bet Lynch married bumbling nightclub manager Alec Gilroy in 1987. Alf’s penny pinching was a stark contrast to Audrey’s love of spending money on clothes and provided humour and the Gilroys’ sarcastic banter behind the Rovers bar was wonderful to watch.

When Bettabuys manager Reg Holdsworth and his assistant Curly Watts formed a partnership in 1989, they didn’t disappoint. They provided much humour on the shop floor alongside various staff.

And when Mavis left her post as Kabin assistant in 1997, Rita found it hard to find a suitable replacement. That replacement came in 1999 when ex-stationery rep Norris Cole came to the rescue. Their partnership has become one of the soap’s most successful. Norris also enjoys a double act with his landlady Emily and with Mary Taylor, who pines for him. I have to say that Norris acting the straight man to Mary’s eccentric personality does not bide well with me and I much prefer his rapport with both Rita and Emily.

There have been other double acts over the years that include Ena Sharples and Minnie Caldwell, Bet Lynch and Betty Turpin, Percy Sugden and Emily Bishop, Fred Elliott and Ashley Peacock, Gail Platt and Audrey Roberts, Steve McDonald and Eileen Grimshaw, Steve McDonald and Lloyd Mullaney, Roy Cropper and Becky Granger and Julie Carp and Brian Packham. They are also wonderful in their own way!

Can you think of any others?

Who's your favourite? Vote in the poll below. Voting closes on Monday, 27th May. There's still time to vote for your favourite Corrie grocer as well.

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Video preview for tonight's Corrie - Peter lashes out at Rob

noreply@blogger.com (Tvor) — Sun, 19 May 2013 23:29:01 PDT

Here's a sneak video preview from tonight's second Coronation Street episode:

Rob and Tracy were busy in the back room and the electrics have gone bust. The fruit machine is not working and the coffee machine has leaked all over the shop. Peter is put out having to mop up and hollers at Rob. Tracy defends Rob. Peter lashes out at her too. Rob has had enough and walks out.

Read the full double episode preview here.

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Sneak preview of tonight's double Corrie - Monday 20 May

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Sun, 19 May 2013 23:29:24 PDT

Coronation Street, Monday 20th May 2013 at 7.30pm

TINA AND GARY FAIL TO KEEP THEIR SECRET INTACT. Mindful of the recent upheaval in their family, Izzy proposes a meal at hers to heal rifts. Throwing himself into his relationship Gary promises to help but when Tina demands he meet her at the yard, where she has a go at him for tackling Tommy and arousing suspicion with Rita, he’s horrified to see Ryan’s walked in on their row. What has Ryan heard?
TRACY AND ROB HAVE HAD ENOUGH OF PETER AND CARLA. Peter and Rob are like a pair of rutting stags at the bookies. Fed up Rob slips into the back for a bit of afternoon delight with Tracy, who’s put out by Carla’s demands that she step in as delivery driver while Kirk’s off sick. But when their absence allows the coffee machine to leak all over the floor how will Peter react?
ROY RETREATS INTO HIS SHELL. Hayley attempts to get Roy to acknowledge his bereavement but he steadfastly ignores her. However when Sylvia insists they visit St. John’s grave together will Roy agree?
Elsewhere Stella plans a bank holiday Monday re-launch for the pub, as she thanks Karl for his support. Chesney decides it’s time to shed his Mr Nice Guy image.

Monday 20th May 2013 at 8.30pm

SECRETS AND LIES TUMBLE OUT AT IZZY’S MEAL. As the group gather at Izzy’s she’s determined to put all the family stresses behind them. But unsure of what Ryan now knows about him and Tina, Gary’s on edge. As soon as he gets chance he pulls Ryan aside, telling him to forget whatever he heard. Under pressure Ryan admits to Katy that he heard something about a kiss. Horrified will Katy blow Gary’s secret?
ROB’S SEETHING WHEN CARLA SIDES WITH PETER. Peter’s had enough of Rob and tells Carla he can’t work with him any longer. Left with little choice Carla tells Rob he’ll be returning to the factory. Bitter, Rob’s fed up of being treated like an underling, not a sibling! Egged on by Tracy, what will he do?
ROY PAYS HIS RESPECTS TO HIS FATHER. Finding St. John’s headstones Sylvia, Hayley and Roy pay their respects.
Elsewhere Karl snaps at Gloria for interfering with the pub’s rebuild, claiming he wants everything to be just right for Stella. Chesney starts pumping weights as he makes plans to bag himself another woman. But is it more to do with his insecurities over Ryan?

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Pics: Coronation Street collect British Soap Awards 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Sun, 19 May 2013 11:25:24 PDT

Well done to Coronation Street for winning eight awards in this year's British Soap Awards, including the award for Best Soap. Read all about the awards here and view red carpet pics of the Corrie cast here.

Below are ITV official pictures from the awards show.

Michell Keegan (Tina) wins Sexiest Female award

The Coronation Street team with Corrie creator Tony Warren next to Jennie McAlpine.

Malcolm Hebden (Norris) clearly very happy at winning the award for Best Soap.

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Pics of Coronation Street cast at British Soap Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Sun, 19 May 2013 02:28:42 PDT

Coronation Street won eight awards at the British Soap Awards, held last night in Manchester on Saturday 18 May.

Read all about the winners here.

And feast your eyes on the pictures below of some of the Coronation Street cast in their best bib and tucker. Don't they scrub up well?

Pics courtesy of Getty Images and Digital Spy who have pics of all of the soap stars.

Alan Halsall and pregnant wife Lucy-Jo Hudson

Jennie McAlpine's dress was made by Antony Cotton's mum, Enid!

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Coronation Street wins eight awards at British Soap Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Tvor) — Sun, 19 May 2013 02:29:16 PDT

The winners are announced in the 2013 British Soap Awards and Alan Halsall and Natalie Gumede came up trumps along with several other awards handed out for our favourite soap.

The eight awards are as follows:

1. Coronation Street won Best Soap.
2. Alan Halsall (Tyrone Dobbs) won for best actor
3 and 4. Natalie Gumede (Kirsty Soames) came away with two BSA awards, Best Dramatic Performance and Villain of the Year.
5. The Best Storyline was Kirsty's abuse of Tyrone.
6. Patti Clare (Mary Taylor) won Best Comedy Performance.
7. Nigel Havers (Lewis Archer) took the gong for Best Exit.
8. Michelle Keegan (Tina McIntyre) won again for Sexiest Female.

All in all, Corrie won eight awards. A full list is available at Digital Spy.

Well done, Corrie! The awards show will be aired on ITV1 tonight at 8pm.

See all the pictures from the British Soap Awards 2013 here.

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Where have you seen Roy's stepmother before?

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Sat, 18 May 2013 06:34:08 PDT

If you're wondering where you've seen Roy Cropper's step mother who turned up on Coronation Street last night, then wonder no more.

The character of Margaret Cropper is played by actor Helen Cotterill.

Helen is a veteran actor from British television and theatre. Her TV work includes other soaps, dramas and her film work even includes Les Mis!

Read her very impressive CV here.

See also: Where have you seen...?
Eric's wife Doris, Audrey's date Henry, Lewis' friend Patrick,The Corrie Registrar, Marcus' friend Aiden, Kirsty's parents, Jenny Sumner, Corrie's prison Governor, Sunita's Aunties, Ken and Deirdre's pottery teacher, Tommy Duckworth, Mrs Hargreaves who died in Audrey's salon, Sally Webster's fella Jeff, Joy Fishwick's investigator, Charlotte's Parents, Ken Barlow's grandson James, Ken Barlow's son Lawrence, Dr Matt Carter, Saucy Charlotte, Izzy's dad Owen Armstrong,The Corrie coppers, Colin Fishwick, Trevor the binman, Connie Rathbone, Uncle Umed,Julie Carp's mum, Luke Strong, Sophie Webster's boyfriend, Eileen Grimshaw's dad, Norris' girlfriend, Graeme Proctor,Molly's Aunty Pam, Maria's mum and dad, Gail's dad, Scary Brian, Tina's dad, Tony Gordon's henchman, Little Simon Barlow

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My wonderful trip to Weatherfield (Part Two)

noreply@blogger.com (Graeme N) — Sun, 19 May 2013 02:40:53 PDT

In part two of my report on my very exciting trip to Weatherfield, I'll be bringing you up to speed on what Stuart Blackburn had to say about Coronation Street under his tenure. I'll also be filling you in on what happened when I joined the journalists for round table interviews with some lovely Corrie actors, and finally I'll bring you one or two interesting (and slightly unusual) titbits.

So to begin...incoming Corrie producer Stuart Blackburn used one word to sum up how it feels to sit in that particular hot seat - awe. Mr Blackburn very obviously has a passion for the Street. He spoke quite movingly about what it means to him and where he wants to take the programme while he's in charge. Stuart said he felt honoured to be working with such an outstanding cast and crew. His vision is to maintain Corrie's position as Britain's best television drama, highlighting its down to earth, working class roots and not forgetting the impact it originally had back in the 1960s.

No major spoilers were revealed, although the next few months will see certain storylines peak. The Platt’s will feature heavily – Nick and Kylie’s secret will grow (poor David!) We will also see more of the Price family as Stella and Karl move their relationship to the next level, although there may be a few surprises along the way. There will also be more of Carla, Peter, Rob and Tracy as well as the development of the major storyline focussing on Roy and his family. I’m sure regular blog contributors will all have thoughts on these!

Now the thought of round table interviews with regular journalists put the fear of god into me I freely admit. We gathered in groups at three different tables while the actors rotated round us in pairs, while Stuart Blackburn listened intently from a safe distance. Unfortunately for me, most of the journalists asked what I would call safe, mundane questions – they were obviously very well-versed in the art of such things. I was slightly awestruck by the entire event, however there were a couple of interesting moments!

First up were Stella and Karl, aka Michelle Collins and John Michie. When the journalists introduced themselves, they missed me out (!) so Michelle locked eyes with me and made sure I was included. When I said I was from the Coronation Street Blog, her immediate reaction was to ask whether I was the nice or the nasty blogger! I was like a rabbit caught in the car headlights! Before I could reply, John Michie stepped in and confirmed that as I was a fellow Scot I must be the nice one! I wasn’t going to disagree!

Next up were Cherylee Houston and Mikey North (Izzy and Gary). I really warmed to both these actors – I could have listened to them for much longer. They both very obviously care about their characters and the street in general and were keen to point out how much they had learned and how far they had developed since they arrived on the cobbles.

Finally we met Michelle Keegan and Chris Fountain (Tina and Tommy). By this point I was becoming a tad frustrated with some of the questions my journalist colleagues were asking so I stuck my brass neck out and asked one of my own! All the journalists were asking the same kind of questions about what it was like to work with a baby, how the actors felt about their characters’ storylines...so I chipped in with the last question of the day. I was keen to hear what these younger actors felt about working with Corrie legend, Barbara Knox (Rita).

I was really impressed by how genuine both Michelle Keegan and Chris Fountain were in their replies. Both actors are clearly in awe of Barbara and rightly so. As you would expect Ms Knox is always on time, always knows her lines and never, ever makes mistakes! She is also a very giving actor, helping these younger actors develop and refine their characters. I got the feeling that although both the actress and the character are legendary and much celebrated, the lady behind the Queen of the Kabin is actually very down to earth and normal, while also quietly demanding a bit of respect. And fair play to her I say! Their final comment was that everyone knows when Barbara Knox is on set! I bet she has the same wonderful aura about her that the Street does when you first experience it.

And finally, some interesting little titbits for you:

Mikey North (Gary) is regularly handbagged by old ladies in the street – regardless of whether his on screen character is misbehaving!
Michelle Keegan (Tina) quite obviously finds Norris hilarious! Every time he appeared on screen, her distinctive chuckle could be heard quite clearly!
Michelle Collins quite frequently wants to give Stella a good shake! This pleased me no end...
Continuity go so far as to give Sally’s garden a name, and update Rita’s intercom to “Tanner” but they leave the Good Luck cards on Stella’s mantelpiece blank!
According to Chris Fountain (Tommy) Michelle Keegan has a terrible singing voice that nobody can bear to listen to!
Stuart Blackburn told a story that involved a pair of speedo shorts. However I doubt our readers are quite ready for that particular denouement...

I hope my blogs have given a good idea of just how thrilled I was to be at Coronation Street. It was such an amazing experience to see the Street, the studios and to meet some of the cast. I really hope you have enjoyed reading about my fantastic adventures in Weatherfield!

Special thanks once again to Joe for the fantastic photos

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When Corrie's good, it's very, very good

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Sat, 18 May 2013 02:41:44 PDT

Last night's Coronation Street ended with Roy and Hayley on the sofa, in a scene that brought a lump to my throat and reminded me why I continue to watch Coronation Street after 40 years a fan.

It was a scene with no fireworks, no hunk with their top off, no cleavage being shoved in our face, no Stella.

It was a scene that sung out with brilliant acting, a moment that could signal the change of one of our favourite characters, showing a chink in the armour of what is one of the strongest marriages and relationships in Coronation Street's history.

Roy opened up his heart, as much as he's ever done, to Hayley, to his mum and to us the viewers about the disappointment he felt about opening up an old wound - at Hayley's insistence. The writer was Susan Oudot.

"I had no desire to read that letter," he tells Hayley.
"No, I know that, but..." she tries to interrupt.
"When one is abandoned there is a void as a child," he continues, "even as a teenager and a desire for that relationship which no longer exists, and there are, as you rightly suppose, many unanswered questions. But all of this I'm glad to say is diluted by age, healed by time and I can honestly say that I was contented."
"I know that but he wanted to see you," she butts in again.
"Yes yes, yes and I, I allowed myself to be intrigued by what he might have to say but now I'll never know."
"But you had to read the letter, how could you not?"
"Very easily, at first very easily, but you pushed and you pushed and well, now.... I'm no longer contented."
"Roy, I'm so, so sorry, I only did what was best for you. If I'm in any way to blame..."
"But you are. You are, Hayley. You are to blame."

Bravo to David Neilson and Julie Hesmondhalgh for a wonderful performance. This is the sort of stuff that should be winning the soap awards for our favourite serial drama.

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Fourth Corrie actor accused of sexual assault

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Sat, 18 May 2013 02:12:21 PDT

From today's Sun

A fourth Corrie star was last night said to have preyed on a girl of 12 hunting autographs at the show’s TV studios. The revelation he faces a police quiz stunned the soap — already rocked by allegations against Bill Roache, Michael Le Vell and Andrew Lancel.

The latest alleged victim confided in a friend: “I didn’t realise what was going on.” The chum told The Sun: “She used to go to the studios to get autographs. It was a real highlight when the stars stood and talked to you. Sometimes they invited the girls into the studios.”

The famous actor is no longer in the ITV1 soap but his long-running character was a household name.

His alleged indecent assault on the wide-eyed schoolgirl is said to have happened in the late 1960s — and her continuing trauma is so severe she even now involuntarily writes his name on scraps of paper.

Now in her mid 50s, the woman has told cops the star gave her lifts home after befriending her.
One of her allegations is that he did something “very inappropriate” to her within the studio complex in Manchester.

She was interviewed for more than six hours on Wednesday by police in Devon, The Sun can reveal.
The star, who the Sun cannot name for legal reasons, is now being investigated by Lancashire Police. Last night Lancashire Police refused to comment.

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WIN! Corrie artwork with the Coronation Street Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Graeme N) — Sat, 18 May 2013 01:28:55 PDT

With thanks to Steven Barrett, creator of the wonderful Glam Glitter Trash website http://www.glamglittertrash.com we have a super glitter art print of classic Corrie character Rita Tanner to give away!

Steven creates canvasses featuring many classic images, made from glitter. As well as producing several classic Corrie characters, Steven has a wide range of other designs featuring comedy characters and Hollywood actors along with many music and sports figures.

I have several of these prints at home - my living room currently boasts glittery Bet Lynch and Rita Tanner from Corrie and Fenella Fielding from Carry On Screaming. They make terrific gifts. Steven also produces these images on other items such as mugs, t-shirts, bags and greetings cards.

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning this fab prize is to answer the following two questions correctly. Please email your answers to glenda.young@btinternet.com with RITA in the subject line. One winning entry will be drawn at random from all correct entries received.

Deadline for entries is Wednesday 22 May at 5pm. Overseas fans can enter.

Here are your questions. Good luck!

Q1: Rita is famous for bursting into song whenever the need arises. Which song did she perform in the Rovers in the aftermath of the tram crash back in 2010, and who accompanied her on the keyboard?

Q2: http://www.glamglittertrash.com produces several glitter prints of classic Coronation Street characters. Which one of the following characters is not currently featured on Steven's website? a) Ena Sharples b) Betty Williams or c) Ivy Tilsley?

Entries from moneysavingsexpert, Loquax and all other competition entry websites will not be accepted in any of our competitions.

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Classic Corrie gems

noreply@blogger.com (Graeme N) — Fri, 17 May 2013 12:05:20 PDT

"He was that bow-legged he couldn't stop a pig in an entry." So said Roy's mum Sylvia this evening. A great line alright, but it sounded vaguely familiar to me...

Ah yes, echoes of none other than Elsie Tanner from the very first episode of Coronation Street! I love it when Corrie makes reference to past glories. And I'd love more of the same.

That's why I keep watching Corrie. Every so often there is an unexpected gem or a wonderful nod to the past, and long may it continue!

Can you remember any other classic Corrie lines being recycled in the modern era?

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Vote for your favourite Corner Shop owner

noreply@blogger.com (Llifon) — Fri, 17 May 2013 09:56:59 PDT

If you haven't yet, you can still vote for your favourite Corner Shop owner here.

Voting closes on Monday, 20th May.

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Michael Le Vell pleads not guilty, bailed until September

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Fri, 17 May 2013 07:33:46 PDT

Michael Le Vell, who plays car mechanic Kevin Webster in Coronation Street, answered "not guilty" 19 times in a clear, strong voice as each individual charge was put to him today at Manchester Crown Court.

The Manchester Evening News reports that the 48-year-old was charged under his real name of Michael Turner with 19 offences, including six counts of raping a child, six allegations of indecently assaulting a child and seven counts of sexual activity with a child.

The alleged offences relate to one complainant and all took place between 2001 and 2010.

The hearing was for the defendant to enter his pleas and arrange administrative matters for a forthcoming trial later this year. At the end of the hearing Judge Michael Henshell addressed the defendant.

"Stand up, Mr Turner," he said. "Your trial will take place on the 2nd of September; you remain on bail in that time, subject to the same conditions." Le Vell bowed his head and replied: "Thank you."

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My wonderful trip to Weatherfield (Part One)

noreply@blogger.com (Graeme N) — Fri, 17 May 2013 05:41:30 PDT

Yesterday I immersed myself in all things Weatherfield. Yes, I was lucky enough to be on the guest list for a very special day at the Coronation Street studios in Manchester. I can’t wait to tell you all about it. It really was a great day.

I last visited Coronation Street back in the mid-1990s in the days when Granada still operated tours. I remember that being pretty exciting, but yesterday was something completely different indeed. We arrived at the studios to be greeted by Corrie’s brilliant Press Officer, Alison Sinclair. After a quick glass of ITV wine I spotted my first Corrie legend – none other than Tyrone himself, the lovely Alan Halsall.

Shortly after this we (me and a gang of journalists) were allowed to run riot on the Street itself. Cue major photo opportunities! Alison Sinclair described it as a school trip let loose and she wasn’t far wrong! I wandered all over the famous cobbled street, one of the highlights was finding myself in Sally Webster’s so-called “Fairy Garden”. Make of that what you will!

It was a truly bizarre experience to find myself right there on Coronation Street. It really is a special place and it has a totally unique feel about it. We were then drafted back in to the viewing room for lunch and a special preview of two upcoming episodes. At this point we were joined by Corrie’s new producer, Stuart Blackburn, the executive producer, Kieran Roberts and six members of the cast. It was a very strange experience to find myself watching an hour of Corrie with Michelle Collins (Stella), John Michie (Karl), Michelle Keegan (Tina), Mikey North (Gary), Cherylee Houston (Izzy) and Chris Fountain (Tommy) all sitting behind us!

The episodes focussed on the re-opening of the Rovers Return and the subsequent premature birth of Tina’s baby. I thought both episodes were pretty good – they will be broadcast over the Bank Holiday weekend at the end of May, so stay tuned!

The next treat in store was a trip to the studios to visit the new Rovers set. I’ve waited 30 years to get my hands on those Rovers pumps. Yes, dear reader, I am that sad. I never ever thought I would find myself behind the bar of the Rovers, or standing in front of the wonderful photo of the much-missed Betty.

The set itself is very small and was crawling with journalists but I managed to brazen it out and have my photo taken in all the special places – behind the bar, in one of the booths and with my hand on Stella’s bell (as it were). We even made it into the infamous Back Room! I can confirm I have now been on Stella’s couch. Go me...

I’ve got far too much to say to fit into just one blog, so do stay tuned for my next instalment. Find out what Stuart Blackburn had to say when he took to the floor. And come back to see how I faired when let loose on the Corrie cast for the round table interviews...

Special thanks go to Joe for the lovely photos.

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Fab Photo Friday - May 17th 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Jim) — Fri, 17 May 2013 00:54:00 PDT

It's Friday again so it's time for this week's fab Coronation Street photo. Here are a couple of pictures from behind the scenes. I'm not sure the new production crew are quite up to the job and why on earth are Kylie and David tucking into toast when there are all those olives available?

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Michael Le Vell in court again today on alleged child abuse charges

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Thu, 16 May 2013 23:38:18 PDT

From ITV News:

Coronation Street actor Michael Le Vell will appear in court later today for a further hearing over alleged child sex offences.

The actor, who plays car mechanic Kevin Webster in the ITV soap, has vehemently denied the allegations and is due to formally enter his pleas to the charges at Manchester Crown Court this afternoon.

The 48-year-old is charged under his real name of Michael Turner with 19 offences including six counts of raping a child, six allegations of indecently assaulting a child and seven counts of sexual activity with a child.

The alleged offences relate to one complainant and all took place between 2001 and 2010.

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Video preview of tonight's Corrie - Roy and Hayley seek out St. John

noreply@blogger.com (Tvor) — Thu, 16 May 2013 23:32:03 PDT

Here's a sneak video preview from tonight's second Corrie episode:

Roy and Hayley turn up at Margaret's house to see his Dad. Margaret is reluctant to let them in when Roy reveals who he is. Hayley tries to explain why they've only just received the letter St. John sent two years ago.

Read the full double episode preview here.

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Spot the Corrie prop - May 17th 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Jim) — Thu, 16 May 2013 23:19:00 PDT

Congratulations to Scott, who was the only one to correctly spot that last week's zebra mug can be found in Roy & Hayley's kitchen.

For this week's prop puzzle all you have to do is tell us whereabouts on the Coronation Street set you would find this triptych of postcards.

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Sneak preview of tonight's double Corrie - Friday 17 May

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:30:01 PDT

Coronation Street, Friday 17th May 2013 at 7.30pm

TINA AND GARY BURY THEIR AWFUL SECRET. Izzy tells Gary that she’s arranged to meet Tina for a drink and clear the air (she’s noticed that Tina looks stressed). Calling at Tina’s flat a worried Gary tells her about Tommy’s threats. Tina promises Tommy won’t say anything but as they meet in the bistro and Tommy walks in, Gary’s discomfort turns to dismay. Is he about to spill the beans?
WILL ANNA BETRAY OWEN’S WISHES? Tim breaks the news to Faye that he can’t afford to pay for her school trip. Faye’s gutted and asks Anna if she’ll lend Tim the money. Owen’s against it, insistent that Tim must learn what it means to be a parent, torn will Anna agree?
ROY SETS OFF IN SEARCH OF HIS DAD. Sylvia tracks down St. John’s old friend Mark and presents Roy with St. John’s address in Blackburn. Will Roy agree to pay St. John a visit?
Elsewhere Karl tells Gloria she’s got her priorities all wrong and should be helping her daughter in her hour of need. Calling on Owen, Gloria asks how much it would cost to finish the Rovers job and pay off Stella’s debt. Baulking at the amount will Gloria bail Stella out? As Katy and Ryan kiss outside No.6, after leaving Joseph with Anna, a hurt Chesney accuses Katy of having little interest in her son any more.

Friday 17th May 2013 at 8.30pm

GARY STRUGGLES WITH HIS CONSCIENCE. Izzy witters on about the baby as Gary and Tina do their best not to appear uncomfortable. Tina impresses on Tommy how important it is that he doesn’t breathe a word about Gary’s indiscretion. But as Izzy tells Gary what a wonderful dad he’ll make, will Gary be able to hide his guilt?
ANNA REACHES THE END OF HER TETHER. When Faye tells Anna and Owen how Tim found the money for her school trip, Owen’s suspicious and quizzes Anna. How will he react when Anna admits she funded it for Faye’s sake?
ROY RECEIVES TRAGIC NEWS ABOUT ST. JOHN. Roy and Hayley arrive at the address in Blackburn, explaining they’re looking for Roy’s father. A lady explains that she’s St. John’s wife but he died 3 months ago. Emotionally battered how will Roy react to the news?
Elsewhere when Owen berates Katy for palming Joseph off onto Anna. Katy flips and announces they’re off to stay at Ryan’s. Taken aback will Ryan agree?

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The new Rovers Return - small changes make a big difference

noreply@blogger.com (Chewy) — Thu, 16 May 2013 23:33:56 PDT

If you were to take a quick look at the new Rovers, you wouldn't think there was much of a difference, but if you look closely, there are a lot of little changes.

My favourite change would be the new portrait of Betty, the controversial "Landlady" caption has been removed, now leaving just a proper tribute to Betty's many years as a barmaid.

The new booths are probably the most notable change, as the old dividers had been quite a recognisable backdrop to many hours of drama and gossip, now replaced with a new art deco style border, they almost resemble the original dividers that were in place after the 1986 fire.

There's a few new changes which help the Rovers look like a pub you would expect to see in 2013, there's a newspaper rack by the bar, where residents can read up on the latest news, or more likely, look up the latest goals and transfers in football.

The new jukebox has a bit more of a modern look, though not too modern, it looks as if it has been rescued from another pub, which was the look that the pub was going for, according to Corrie's art director in an post from earlier today.

Another big change is that the pub has wooden panelling that now covers some of the walls in the bar, I think this is a nice change as the wallpaper will no longer cover each wall, and wooden panelling on the walls is something you would commonly see in a real world pub, further adding to the realism of the pub and the soap itself.

All in all, the new Rovers has manage to mantain the classic "Rovers" style, while also looking more like a pub you would see in modern day Manchester.

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Eva's magic top on Coronation Street

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:47:45 PDT

Having just caught up with last night's Coronation Street (from Wednesday 15 May) there's an obvious continuity error which is worth blogging.

When Eva returned from Ibiza she was wearing an embroided cream top underneath her sparkly jacket. She then goes into the Bistro where Stella throws her rubber gloves at her, so it wasn't too surprising to see Eva had changed into a different top later on in the episode.

But then later still, her outfit reverted to the first top she had on earlier in the shoot.

See also: Steve McDonald's magic sausage
See also: Sean Tully's magic hair

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Last chance to vote for Corrie! British Soap Awards 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:52:41 PDT

If you haven't voted yet for Coronation Street, do it now. Voting closes at 3pm on Friday 17 May.

The awards ceremony takes place on Saturday 18 May at Media City in Manchester and will be shown on ITV1 on Sunday 19 May.

So if you haven't yet voted for Coronation Street in the British Soap Awards 2013, then...

Cast your vote here.

View galleries from last year's awards of all the red carpet arrivals and winners from Coronation Street here.

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Coronation Street pub walk, Friday May 24

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Thu, 16 May 2013 09:18:12 PDT

New Manchester Walks are offering a Coronation Street pub walk on Friday May 24.

If you're interested all you have to do is turn up at the Cornerhouse, Oxford Street, Manchester at 6pm to meet your guide, Willie Eckerslike.

Find out all the details here.

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Behind the scenes at new Rovers Return on Coronation Street

noreply@blogger.com (Flaming Nora) — Thu, 16 May 2013 04:09:05 PDT

Coronation Street Art Director Rosie Mullins-Hoyle explains how she and the design team created the new look Rovers Return.

“The redesign of the Rovers was a massive challenge firstly because it was the first time in 25 years that the set had come out of stage 1! For myself it is an iconic set and perhaps the most famous in the country so there is a lot of pressure to get it right and do it justice.

I was given a brief from Producer Stuart Blackburn that the pub needed to feel like the Rovers - it needed to keep its character, the changes needed to be subtle and people had t notice new things about it after seeing a few episodes. Stella had made a conscious effort to try to make it feel like the same pub. In the back room she has picked out the the same wallpaper she had before as this is her home and she wants it to feel like it did.

We had an additional Rovers set built for the Fire which then became the Rovers building site allowing us time to recreate the new Rovers on the original set. The work took approximately 6 weeks and a team of 3 painters, 4 Chippys, an upholster, construction manager, setting team of 4, a dressing team of 4, 2 Production Buyers, a Graphic Designer and Myself. Every aspect of it was carefully thought out down to the detail on the panelling and bar top and the colour samples of wood grain were done to get the colour perfect, every detail was considered.

A big challenge we had was time as due to tight filming schedules we had just one week to get the Rovers building site set out of studio and the new Rovers in, up, lit, dressed and ready for filming! It was well and truly all hands on deck! It had to be carefully planned and systematically done with a tight deadline and the dedicated construction and dressing teams worked through the night and gave up their Bank Holidays to make it happen.

The wallpaper was picked by the show’s Head of Design Alan Davis and approved by Stuart. The wallpaper was bought in bulk in case it discontinues as it potentially needs to last us for the next 50 years! A couple of gallons of paint were used. The Rovers hallway was given a new look with the continuation of wood panelling from the bar and a change in wallpaper which tied in with the pattern in the Rovers bar. I was careful to make sure that the colours used in the hallway are the same as the colours used in the old hallway bringing splashes of orange in the artwork on the walls. All of the wallpapers were tested on camera prior to filming to see how they looked under studio lights and we checked that we were technically able to shoot with them.

Stuart wanted it to feel like it had been kitted out with items from a pub that had shut down. I sourced a stained glass bay window online from a pub in Birmingham that had been knocked down . This was then used to create the glass partitions in between the booths. Additional reclaimed stained glass was sourced and used in the back bar optics which were redesigned. Both the seating and the new back bar have an art deco detail to them adding to the theme that these have come from another old pub and are continuing their life in the Rovers.

When picking the upholstery with upholsterer Alan Eccleston I must have looked through hundreds of samples to get the perfect one - a traditional gold fabric with repeat flower pattern which colours tied in with the Rovers wallpaper. Once selected it then underwent flame tests to check it was suitable for use on a set. The curtain fabric was sourced from a local company that provided us with upholstery and curtain fabric for the last Rovers redesign.

The dressings were all sourced with the original Rovers in mind and with us not wanting it to look shiny and new. The Buyers sourced across the country to get every detail right - old Salford prints, brassware, hot plates, old pub stools and tables, pictures, establishing a pub poser table and a new juke box.

Look out for the Rovers continuing to change in its first 4 weeks on screen and then subtly in time as it gets its life back. For instance the back room with vintage beer posters and day to day life and memorabilia that will be added to over the years. We have just added a hand painted 'Rovers Return' dartboard. All of these details add to the character and history of the Rovers Return Inn. “

See also: FIRST PICS of new Rovers Return on Coronation Street

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