Kym Marsh wins Rear of the Year Award 2015

Kym Marsh, who plays Michelle Connor on Coronation Street has been voted Rear of the Year 2015.

Kym said: “I’d like to thank everyone from the heart of my bottom for voting for me. It’s totally unexpected but greatly appreciated. I’m very flattered to receive this award, it looks like all those extra gym sessions have paid off.”

Fat Brenda must be fewmin! She's missed out again.
 
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Coronation Street voted UK's favourite TV show

Coronation Street has been voted the UK's favourite TV show. 

In an independent poll run by Ladbrokes, they aimed to find out what the UK's favourite things are. One of the categories they looked at was the UK's favourite TV programme - and Corrie won it straight.

Despite being a relatively young TV show, Game of Thrones came third with 11.29% of the votes. Downtown Abbey  beat Game of Thrones at 11.48%, and Coronation Street came out as the UK's favourite with 14.04% of the votes.

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State of the Street - June

June on Coronation Street was fairly downbeat overall. There was the aftermath of Kal's death as it affected Alya in particular. Sophie and her family barely had a chance to catch their breath after Maddie's death when they had to deal with Jenny running off with Jack. Faye finally made Anna listen and gave baby Miley to her father and family to raise.

The cracks are starting to show in Simon, after a lifetime of losing people he loves. I fear he's going to make David Platt look like Father Christmas before Simon's even old enough to vote!

Michael has found out about G'Andy and has spent the month dealing with anger and grief, with Gail looking on from across the street in equal measures of hope and desperation.

Kylie's back and Callum's butt is about to be kicked. I hope. Dev's just a romantic fool, "fool" being the operative word. Again.

All this and more detail on The State of the Street.

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Kate Ford on saying goodbye to Deirdre Barlow

With the sad news that Deirdre's final farewell will be on the show next week, here's an interview with Kate Ford, who plays Tracy Barlow in Coronation Street.

How does Tracy take the news about her mum’s death?
Tracy is devastated, she loved Deirdre very much. Over the years, whatever Tracy has done, even if she hasn’t agreed with it, Deirdre has always stood by her and loved her unconditionally. Tracy suddenly feels very alone without her mum.

How is Tracy feeling about her mum’s funeral?
Tracy throws herself into the funeral arrangements, she tries to be very efficient and busy herself with the plans in a bid to block out the pain.

Was it hard to film the scenes of Deirdre’s funeral, given you worked so closely with Anne?
Yes it was very difficult, and emotional at times, but I tried to keep things as separate as I could because it was too painful if not.

Obviously Tracy’s been up to her usual devious tricks of late – does losing her mum make her reflect on her actions and her lifestyle at all?
I think it does, she wants to be a better daughter and a better mother. She does set about making some changes, and maybe trying to call a truce with a certain person, but whether that will last I don’t know.

How does Tracy feel about her dad Ken’s hostility towards her?
She’s angry with him and she doesn’t really understand why he’s being like this. Tracy is mourning the loss of Deirdre too and she really needs some comfort but Ken isn’t forthcoming at all.

For once, does Tracy actually feel guilty when Ken berates her for causing Deirdre so much grief over the years?
Yes she does feel guilty and she vows not to let her mum down again.

See also the following as we get ready to say goodbye to Deirdre Barlow:

Interview with William Roache (Ken Barlow) on saying goodbye to his on-screen wife

Interview with Corrie scriptwriter Damon Rochefort on writing out a legend from the show

Deirdre to die on her 60th birthday, July 8 2015.

Peter Barlow and Bev Unwin are returning.

Coronation Street build their own graveyard to film Deirdre's funeral

Tracy's ex-husband Robert Preston returns.

The funeral has been written by scriptwriter Damon Rochefort
 
Deirdre's death has been explained here.

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William Roache on saying goodbye to Deirdre Barlow

With the sad news that Deirdre's final farewell will be on the show next week, here's an interview with William Roache, who plays Ken Barlow in Coronation Street.

With Deirdre heading back to the Street, Ken’s planning a surprise party – how’s he feeling about her return?
Ken is thrilled to bits that she’s coming back, he’s really excited and he’s got this surprise 60th birthday party all arranged to celebrate. Then of course there’s this big shock, when their friend Bev arrives to announce the tragic news that Deirdre has passed away.

Does the news that Deirdre’s died come completely out of the blue?
It is totally and absolutely out of the blue, and in complete contrast to what we were expecting, so it is a terrible shock.

How does Ken react? Is he initially in shock?
When something really big happens, you don’t do anything. You are dumbstruck, literally - bang. If it’s something as awful as that, you don’t scream, you don’t shout, you don’t cry, you are just literally struck dumb. So that’s how I played it. Then there are some lovely scenes with Bev where it unfolds and she talks about how Deirdre died, which was was very peacefully, so that’s a blessing for Ken. Then of course it moves into a phase where Ken can’t understand why she stayed away so long. The funeral is coloured by what Bev tells him about why Deirdre stayed away so long, which he thought was himself. He thought she’d gone off him, found another man, or something like that. But it turns out the reason she stayed away was because of Tracy’s awful behaviour, she was so embarrassed about Tracy having the affair with Tony and upsetting her best friend Liz.

Does that make Ken angry with Tracy?
When he hears the real reason she stayed away he gets very angry, because he has been deprived of the last few weeks and months of life with the person he loves, Deirdre, all because Tracy misbehaved. So he has this double emotion to deal with, tremendous grief at the loss of Deirdre, and colossal anger at Tracy. The denying him those last few weeks. So all through the funeral, he’s got this mixed feeling, anger at Tracy and grief at having lost Deirdre, and also the added grief at not having been with her at the end in the last few weeks of her life. So it gives it another dimension at the funeral.

Does Ken break down at any point?
Ken isn’t the sort of person who shows his emotions. For most of it, he’s on the verge of tears but he’s just keeping it under the surface. However then there comes a point where he’s given her glasses. As an actor Ken is given the glasses of Deirdre, which is highly emotive as glasses are very personal, they’re very close to the person, but of course when I got the glasses, they were also Anne’s. Anne had worn those glasses for twenty years, so there was a complete merger for me, there was no Bill and Ken and Deirdre and Anne, it was just one. I felt the loss of both. From an acting point of view it made it totally simple and totally believable and very easy to play. From the grieving and sadness point of view, it made it totally real. It was the only time there is a blurring of the edges between the character and the actor - it was just one, it became complete oneness, which is interesting and helpful.

When you played the scenes after the funeral around the Barlows table with Peter and Tracy there was a lot of emotion, was it confusing at times?
I just dropped the confusion and I found instead of trying to think of it, and think of the confusion, let it be, and let it be one. And it was one. It was the only time, ever, that you could say that Ken and Bill are the same: that was the moment that it was so. It was really, really interesting from that point of view.

Was it nice to have Chris Gascoyne back filming and to do those scenes going over the Barlows’ troubled history with Chris and Kate?
It was wonderful to have Chris back. I love Chris dearly, he’s such a good actor, and such a beautiful person. There was a lot of sad, but sort of joyful moments, heart-warming moments that have come out of those scenes and from having Chris back. I think, from Annie’s point of view, she’s had a wonderful send off, both as a person in the memorial service, and from the story that plays out on screen. Everybody loves Annie, they really did, and the stories show and respect that. It was good to play.

After the funeral there are some classic Barlow scenes where everyone’s rowing – can you tell us a bit about what happens?
Well, it is classic Barlow really, nothing ever goes smoothly and the funeral is no exception. So really Ken has three things going on, which is quite tricky; he’s got the grief of losing Deirdre, the anger at Tracy, and then his son Peter doesn’t turn up when he’s meant to be a pallbearer. So poor old Ken’s trying to think of his eulogy and he’s got all those mixed feelings going on. But that’s good; it’s good writing and a good story, it gives it a three-dimensional aspect.

The row leads to a lot of conversations about the past and Deirdre. Are the issues resolved between them by the end? Are the Barlows almost brought back together by their grief?
It’s very interesting and it’s what is great about the Street itself. It goes back so far, it draws on its own history. So when we have a row, it isn’t a row just about the situation, you draw on all that’s gone on in the past. Ken has always got at Tracy for her behaviour, quite rightly, and so that all comes out. He really goes at her; how she never listens, she never cares, brought her misfortunes on her own head, and I say awful things to her in the church. Deirdre spent a lot of time trying to excuse Tracy’s behaviour, which was inexcusable, so it causes a lot of grief for her and that makes Ken very angry. It was an exploration that went into the relationships between Ken, Peter and Tracy, and Peter and Tracy as well. Whether it’s sorted by the end and they can accept that nobody’s perfect you’ll have to wait and see. Ken hasn’t behaved well, Peter hasn’t behaved well, Tracy hasn’t behaved well. So at the end of it hopefully they can come out more cleansed, as it were, maybe clear the air a bit.

How do you think Ken and Tracy are going to get on living together?
Deirdre was always in the middle sorting them out. She was always the only one who defended Tracy totally. Ken would go at her, but Deirdre defended her. At the moment there’s peace, probably Ken and Tracy are closer than they’ve ever been, for the time being anyway [laughs]. For how long that will be, I don’t know.

On top of this, Tracy’s ex husband Robert arrives. Is Ken aware he’s present at the funeral?
I don’t know if Ken’s aware of that at the funeral, but he certainly comes home, and he’s there. He comes home after the funeral to find Tracy and Robert on the sofa - ‘cavorting’ is the word he uses - which is not really appropriate on the day of his wife’s funeral. He’s very cross, he tells Robert to get out and he doesn’t want to see him again, so it’s not a good start for Robert.

What were his feelings about Robert in the past? Did Ken like him?
Ken didn’t know much about Robert because Tracy was living away when it all happened. I don’t think Ken had any particular feelings about Robert from the past, but seeing him in his living room when he comes home from his wife’s funeral, cavorting on the sofa with Tracy, that is not on. So Robert does not get off on the right foot.

Can you give us a hint about what’s coming up for the Barlows?
There’s lots more exciting things coming up for the Barlows. We’ve got Robert turning up chasing Tracy, then we’ve also got Simon misbehaving. Simon’s not very happy when his Dad comes and then goes again. Simon’s showing signs of his troubled upbringing, it’s not surprising, any child brought into the Barlow household is bound to suffer some deep psychological scarring! I think it’s good that they’re showing he’s got some scarring, because you can’t come through what he has unscathed. He’s lost his mother, he’s seen his father drunk, he’s been through so much, it’s bound to have an effect. I think it’s very good that we’re exploring that. Then there’s also little Amy, on the other hand, who is coming out as quite a little tough character. She’s becoming a mini-Blanche, which I think is great too, because that strength would mean it’s her way of dealing with all the awful things that have happened. It’s good stuff.

Do you enjoy working with the youngsters who play Simon and Amy?
They’re both brilliant. They’re so sweet. They come up after scenes and say ‘Well done’ and give you a hug. Alex is a dear little lad, and little Ellie, she’s wonderful.

See also the following as we get ready to say goodbye to Deirdre Barlow:

Interview with Kate Ford (Tracy Barlow) on saying goodbye to her on-screen mum

Interview with Corrie scriptwriter Damon Rochefort on writing out a legend from the show

Deirdre to die on her 60th birthday, July 8 2015.

Peter Barlow and Bev Unwin are returning.

Coronation Street build their own graveyard to film Deirdre's funeral

Tracy's ex-husband Robert Preston returns.

The funeral has been written by scriptwriter Damon Rochefort
 
Deirdre's death has been explained here.

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Damon Rochefort on writing Deirdre Barlow's farewell

With the sad news that we'll be saying a final farewell to Deirdre Barlow next week on Coronation Street, Corrie scriptwriter Damon Rochefort talks about writing Deirdre's goodbye.

"Even if you’ve never seen a single episode of ‘Coronation Street’, a pound to a penny says you’ve probably heard of Deirdre Barlow. So to the millions of fans who have followed the character through her 42 dramatic years on the show, the death of actress Annie Kirkbride earlier this year was shocking and tragic.

So when I was asked to write Deirdre’s funeral episodes some months ago, I was touched and flattered, of course, but well aware of the level of anticipation from the show’s fans that the character had the send-off she deserved. Being a lifelong fan of the show myself, even if I’d never worked on Corrie, I’d want exactly the same thing. And it wouldn’t be just the fans, either. Annie was a hugely popular cast member and it was important to me that our colleagues on the show also felt I was doing this iconic character justice. So too her husband David and all her friends and family who thought so much of this wonderful woman and the character she so brilliantly portrayed.

No pressure there then.

A few years back, I wrote Deirdre’s mother Blanche’s funeral episode after the sad passing of actress Maggie Jones. In that episode, I wrote for Annie – as Deirdre – a eulogy for her mother which I’m relieved to say was incredibly well received, mainly because Annie delivered it so perfectly. Now I had to do the same for Bill Roache as Ken, as he delivered a eulogy to his wife, taken from him far too early. Bill and Annie were incredibly close colleagues for 42 years, an on-screen husband and wife for many of them. How to fit all that history into a eulogy lasting a few minutes on screen?

And how would daughter Tracy react? A woman who has literally got away with murder and been the bane of many street residents’ lives for years. Would the ice queen finally crack? And what of grand-children Amy and Simon? Her best friends Liz and Eileen? Surrogate mum Emily? The wider community?

Another quandary when actors die unexpectedly is that we write scripts many months before transmission. The public knew Annie was dead. But on screen, in episodes written long before this shocking news, Deirdre was staying at her friend Bev’s, a story we had used to cover Deirdre’s absence on the show when Annie had been taken ill. Now she would never come back. The only task left was to give Deirdre a funeral with all the emotion and – this being Corrie, the humour – this iconic TV legend deserved.

One key when writing these eps was Tracy. Deirdre was pretty much the only person who ALWAYS forgave Tracy. The one person Tracy could turn to when she had alienated everybody else. How would this self-absorbed, callous character react when her lone supporter had gone? The answer came, strangely through a song. When I was deciding which songs Deirdre would have at her funeral I spent an afternoon listening to many. And when I put on ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ and heard the lines ‘I’m on your side, when times get rough. And friends just can’t be found…’ I knew I had a wonderful scene. Tracy, weeping, staring at her mum’s photo on her coffin, as the congregation sang these magically apt words which summed up Deirdre’s unfaltering support of her daughter.

Then there was the humour. During Blanche’s memorable time on the show, she famously used to go to strangers’ funerals with her cohorts from the one o‘clock club. It was one of her hobbies. At Blanche’s funeral, the one o’clock club tipped up – led magnificently by June Whitfield – and provided some excellent light relief. Why not have a gaggle of these old dears turn up at Deirdre’s funeral too, in memory of Blanche and out of respect for her daughter? And why not cast a real choir as the one o’clock club members, so the songs would really raise the roof of the beautiful church we were going to shoot in?

For the rest, I’m afraid you’ll have to watch the episodes. Us writers like to hold a few surprises back.

Co-incidentally, we shot Deirdre’s funeral scenes either side of the weekend of Annie’s memorial in Manchester Cathedral. An emotional time then for cast and crew, these last couple of weeks, as they said goodbye to both Deirdre the character, and Annie their beloved colleague. So when you see the on screen tears and emotion from cast members when Ken says his final goodbyes to Deirdre in these upcoming episodes, you can be assured of one thing - it won’t all be acting…"

See also the following as we get ready to say goodbye to Deirdre Barlow:

Interview with Kate Ford (Tracy Barlow) on saying goodbye to her on-screen mum

Interview with William Roache (Ken Barlow) on saying goodbye to his on-screen wife

Deirdre to die on her 60th birthday, July 8 2015.

Peter Barlow and Bev Unwin are returning.

Coronation Street build their own graveyard to film Deirdre's funeral

Tracy's ex-husband Robert Preston returns.

The funeral has been written by scriptwriter Damon Rochefort
 
Deirdre's death has been explained here. 

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Deirdre Barlow, RIP

In an emotional episode written by Damon Rochefort, due to transmit on Monday 13th July, the residents will pay their respects at Deirdre’s funeral.

Viewers will also see Ken’s son Peter Barlow briefly return to the show as Ken, Peter and Tracy spend an evening dissecting their troubled family life and reminiscing about the legend that was Deirdre Barlow.

See also:

Our blogger Graeme's tribute: Saying goodbye to Deirdre
Our blogger David's tribute: Death comes to Weatherfield
In pictures: Deirdre Barlow's funeral
Coronation Street build their own graveyard to film Deirdre's funeral
In pictures: Some of Deirdre Barlow's best moments
Interview with Kate Ford (Tracy Barlow) on saying goodbye to her on-screen mum

Interview with William Roache (Ken Barlow) on saying goodbye to his on-screen wife

Interview with Corrie scriptwriter Damon Rochefort on writing out a legend from the show

Deirdre to die on her 60th birthday, July 8 2015.

Peter Barlow and Bev Unwin are returning.

Tracy's ex-husband Robert Preston returns.

The funeral has been written by scriptwriter Damon Rochefort
Deirdre's death is explained here.

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Spoilers for next week's Coronation Street... Deirdre dies

Without any piffle, here's the storyline for the week ahead on Coronation Street, all wrapped up nicely in 50 words or less.

Week of Monday July 6 to Friday July 10
Note: There's an extra episode on Thursday July 9

Bev arrives on Deirdre's 60th birthday with the sad news she has passed away.
Elsewhere next week, Callum wants Kylie back, Roy helps Cathy declutter, Simon continues to test Leanne, Carla starts gambling, Michael and Eileen grow close,

The full weekly preview, with pictures is right here on Corrie.net

Missed last week's Corrie?
Catch up with the Coronation Street Weekly Updates  

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Coronation Street Double Episode Review 29 June 2015

I’ve only ever witnessed one fight between women in my life. It was a bitter January Sunday morning, at an Under 13s football match in a godforsaken place called Maltby. One boy went in hard on another and a scuffle broke out. It was sorted quickly by the referee, but the mothers of the two boys were on the floor scrapping. Can you imagine the embarrassment for all concerned?

And so it is with Gail and Eileen. Wholly embarrassing. Embarrassing for themselves, their families and for the idea that 2 middle aged women would stoop to a physical fight -unconvincing, slapstick, not big, not clever and not, sadly, entertaining.  Later, Nick tells his mother that he is doing his best to cope with the loss of a much-wanted baby, in order to put a perspective on events and that the last thing he wanted was to witness a circus like that.

Neither Gail nor Eileen are stupid women but here they behave stupidly. Eileen was mightily provoked and why on earth did Audrey and Maria not stop Gail throwing all the hair products.

 Eileen actually encourages Michael to sort things out with Gail, which he agrees to do. He explains how angry and upset he was over the deceit about Gavin. Gail faithfully promises no more dishonesty. Michael, warming to the theme, tells Gail that it was getting cosy with Eileen that brought on his heart attack. Some things are best kept quiet. Gail rails at Eileen, who she detests anyway. Eileen says that they only kissed and reassures Gail that she has no designs on him. Gail is in hot pursuit of Eileen and starts to fight.  Sweet heavens! Michael hoves into view and gets a ringside seat and consequently hears the unkind remarks Gail makes about him. ‘He’s a failed burglar, with a dodgy heart and a fondness for Y-fronts.’

Todd is highly amused. Discovering that his mother was ‘romping’ and ‘pawing’ he says, ‘I know you’re desperate, but that’s practically grave robbing.’

Tracy makes sure that Brian keeps his date at the Bistro with Julie Carp. Because Tracy is involved, we know that there will be something unkind involved. The Julie Carp, who is not our Julie Carp, says she would like to travel around the world. The poor soul is happy to meet Brian but Brian has to pull out.

At home, there is quite a disturbing scene where Amy seems to be Tracy’s mini –me. To see the 2 of them in cahoots that way is worrying. ‘He wanted to meet Julie Carp for lunch and we made it happen,’ says chip off the old block, Amy. Ken pulls his head out of his latest classic, Emma Bovary, to tell his daughter that she is monumentally uncharitable.’ Nothing new there, Ken.

Dev and his women are causing a rumpus. This has made for uncomfortable viewing. What was Talisa doing there, in Dev`’s house in the first place? Was she contributing to the family budget, did she realize that Dev was infatuated with her and if so was she using that to her advantage? Who did she think Julie was? Dev asks Talisa to leave her husband so that makes Dev’s motives clear. Dev and Talisa have behaved badly and now, spotted holding hands in the cafe by Brian, he feels he must let Julie know, maybe seeing this as an opportunity. ‘I’ve just witnessed a scene of great intimacy,’ says Brian. ‘I’ve seen his sort before – all hair oil and shopworn charm.’

Mary arrives at Dev’s to see Julie sitting very still, all alone. She approaches her and naturally Julie asks her if she knew anything. Mary admitted she had an ‘inkling’ and that she approached Dev about it. Should Mary have approached Julie too? Maybe, but it’s understandable that she didn’t. Mary tells Julie that Dev is worth fighting for.’ Julie’s response is definite. ‘No he’s not.’

Julie plucks up the courage and confronts Dev and Talisa. Dev is dev–astated and begs Julie for another chance. Talisa is not in love with Dev and she tells him that she is gay. When Talisa leaves, Julie rips in to Dev. She tells him that while he was away she looked after his children, his house and his business and in return he betrayed her. She did all she did out of love. What a tour de force that was, Katy Kavanagh! Now I’m even more sorry you’re going!

Great to see Carla as the Victoria Coren- Mitchell, of Weatherfield. Bring on the high rollers for a game of poker, brought about by Jason’s insomnia and his early morning TV viewing. Satisfying to see Carla win and irritating to see Dan so obnoxious towards her. What a dreadful man! I know they still exist, but Carla will be only too pleased to beat the cave man. When he won’t have another game, Carla says, ‘Coward, I was just warming up.’  It’s a good job that Liz didn’t witness the way in which Dan behaved towards Carla, because had she done so she might not be so keen to be with him. What a lovely thing Carla does for Kirk by handing him a substantial amount of her winnings and will take no refusal.

Erica must be feeling distraught. Doubtless she believes that the loss of her baby means that she will remain childless. She doesn’t want any contact with Nick and is refusing to take his phone calls. The loss of the baby is sad for Nick too, as he was very keen to have a child. What should Nick do? Should he stick with Erica out of a sense of duty or should he follow his heart and turn to Carla? As we all know, Alison King is taking a break from the cobbles, so maybe nothing will happen with Nick.

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Joyous Julie

Never mind the much heralded re-match of Gail versus Eileen. While I always love to see these two exchanging unpleasantries, the highlight of Monday evening's Coronation Street was most definitely the glorious Julie Carp.

I knew I was going to miss Katy Cavanagh's Julie when it was announced the actress had decided to move on. I think perhaps I had taken Julie's presence for granted. Her cheery, ditzy good humour and joyous 1950s fashions have brightened up an increasingly dreary Weatherfield world over the past seven years. Julie has often been part of the Greek chorus, mainly in the factory. She has been comic relief, whether in her dealings with Mary or in her relationship with Brian. Like Mavis and Derek before them, they were painted as figures of fun, saved mainly by the writing and some terrific performances.

Julie's big moment came several years back when her desperate desire to become a mother took a tragic turn. It had the makings of an extremely touching and moving tale however as I remember it, this story took a back seat for other more "dramatic" offerings. A shame I think, and a missed opportunity to see these comic characters take on extra dimensions.

Anyway, Julie has dominated tonight's double bill of Corrie and I think Katy Cavanagh has really shined. Yes there has always been edges of comedy in this story with Dev and Talisa, but underneath it all there is a quiet heartbreak that once again Julie's quest for a family has failed. Although she had given up hopes of a family of her own, her blossoming romance with Dev had the added bonus of a ready made family. It was lovely to see Julie interacting with the twins (despite that tedious and out of character feuding with Mary). It is such a shame it has to come to an end, thanks to Dev's not uncharacteristic roving eye. Julie's description of Dev has a fading 1970s throwback shopkeeper was unkind but most definitely deserved! 

This storyline has also brought out the best in Mary. I always appreciate when the writers give Patti Clare something more to get her teeth into. The slightly deranged, winnebago dwelling Mary has run its course. I think it's time to show the caring, thoughtful, delicate side to Mary more often. Her touching bond with Julie has been a joy as this storyline comes to an end.

Julie discovering Dev's stupidity tonight was Corrie at its best. It combined the delicate balance of comedy and drama and while it made me laugh it also made me quite sad, not only that lovely Julie's dream has been dashed by another daft bloke, but more so because it means Katy Cavanagh's departure date grows near. I will miss both Julie and Katy. 

Follow me on Twitter @GraemeN82 

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Wedding for Corrie's best loved couple, says The Sun

There's a Coronation Street spoiler in today's Sun, so as usual with these things, take them with a pinch of salt as there's no official source for these type of things.

But if you love spoilers as I do and it's out there anyway, let's speculate anyway!  The Sun says that Sally and Tim are going to get married.

Tim will pop the question, the Sun says, next month on Coronation Street. He'll get down on one knee as Take That's song Greatest Day plays in the background.

Sally accepts Tim's proposal but there's no details as to when the wedding might take place.  I'm hoping for a Christmas wedding. I wonder if Rosie will return for her mum's wedding - either in the form of Helen Flanagan or a new actress?


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Preview of tonight's double Corrie - Monday 29 June

Monday 29th June
HONESTY ISN’T THE BEST POLICY FOR GAIL With some encouragement from Eileen, Michael sets off to clear the air with Gail, in the hope they can salvage their marriage. As they have a heart to heart, Michael explains to Gail how much she hurt him with her web of lies. Gail begs him to give her another chance and assures him there will be no more secrets. Agreeing that honesty is the best policy, Michael admits that his recent heart do was brought on by a moment of intimacy with Eileen. How will Gail react to the news that Michael got frisky with her nemesis?
DEV MAKES THE RIGHT MOVE WITH THE WRONG WOMAN Clearly in love, Dev puts pressure on Talisa to be honest with her husband and tell him it’s over for good. Meanwhile Tracy reminds Brian about his lunch date with Julie Carp. Brian’s bemused when a stranger approaches him in the bistro explaining she’d love to travel the world with him. What is Tracy’s game? Unimpressed, Brian’s about to leave when he clocks Dev and Talisa deep in conversation. As Dev takes Talisa’s hand, Brian grows suspicious. Finding Julie, Brian warns her that Dev’s intentions towards Talisa might not be platonic. Suspecting Brian is right, Julie goes in search of Dev, but will she overhear more than she bargained for?
ROY AND FIZ’S CURIOSITY GROWS OVER CATHY As her strange behaviour continues Roy wonders what’s behind it.
ELSEWHERE Jason, Kirk and Gary arrange a poker night in the Rovers. When Dan calls in the Rovers he invites himself to join the lads for the game.

Monday 29th June
DING! DING! IT’S ROUND 2 FOR GAIL AND EILEEN Gail rages at Eileen. Eileen does her best to defend herself, assuring Gail they only kissed and Michael isn’t really her type, but this only serves to fuel Gail’s anger. Gail pursues Eileen out of the salon and the two women fight on the street. The Platts watch in horror as Gail and Eileen brawl on the cobbles. In her rage Gail makes some disparaging remarks about Michael but her anger quickly turns to regret as she spots Michael who’s heard every word. Can he forgive Gail’s behaviour or are the couple back to square one?
JULIE’S WORLD FALLS APART Clearly embarrassed, Dev apologises to Talisa for misreading the signals. Julie explains to Mary how she overheard Dev declaring his love for Talisa. Over dinner, Julie confronts Dev and Talisa. Dev’s mortified and begs Julie to give him another chance. Will she agree? Meanwhile when Talisa delivers a few home truths to Dev it looks like Julie could be having the last laugh!
CARLA’S ON A HIGH AT POKER NIGHT Carla inveigles her way into the lads’ poker night, finding herself on a winning streak she wipes the floor with the men, much to Dan’s disgust. Oblivious to the contemptuous way he behaved towards Carla, Liz gets cosy with her new man.
ELSEWHERE Nick tells Carla that Erica has moved back to her Mum’s and is refusing to take his calls.  Carla’s sympathetic.

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COMPETITION! Win Coronation Street cups and travel mugs

There’s a whole batch of new official Coronation Street merchandise available for fans to purchase.  The new items can all be found on eBay here.

The new range includes cups, travel mugs, notepads, fridge magnets, a shopper bag, tea towels and a bookmark.  New items are being added to the range so keep checking the eBay page!

Over the next few weeks, each Tuesday, we’ll be offering items of the new merchandise to fans as competition prizes.  Sorry, overseas fans, these prizes can be sent to UK addresses only.  If I could, I would open all of our competitions to fans all over the world. However, due to the product licensing on these items, we’re tied to offering them to UK fans only.   That doesn’t stop you from buying the new items of course, we just can’t offer them overseas via our website.

Our first competition gives you the chance to win ONE of these cups or travel mugs.  We have three cups on offer – Norris and Rita; Deirdre and Ken; Roy and Hayley – and two travel mugs – Sean Tully; Steve and Michelle.

You can win ONE of the above by entering our competition, answering the following two questions correctly and then being drawn at random from all correct entries received.  The deadline for entries to this competition is Tuesday 30 June 2015 at 5pm.  All winners will be announced here on the Coronation Street Blog.

Email your answers to me at glenda.young@btinternet.com with the subject line of CUPS in your email.

Entries from moneysavingsexpertforum, Loquax and all other competition entry websites will not be included.

Here are your two questions. Good luck!

1.    How much does the Ken and Deirdre mug retail for?
2.    In what year did Ken and Deirdre marry for the second time?

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Beverley Callard opens up about Anne Kirkbride's final moments

There is a beautiful interview in today's Mirror with Beverley Callard (Liz McDonald) who opens up about the last days of Anne Kirkbride. 

It's a lovely tribute to Anne Kirkbride.  Beverley and Anne were good friends and the interview is definitely well worth a read.

Beverley talks about how she first met Anne Kirkbride on the set at Coronation Street and how their friendship lasted all the way up to Anne's final moments.

Read it here.

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Corrie Weekly Awards June 22 - 26

It's not the size award: It's the number of reps!

Musical ambiance: "If I Could Turn Back Time" while Brian moans about love hurting.

Imperial award: Roy's suggestion would make the baby's name Tiberius Tilsley.

Pants on fire award: Cathy appears to be lying about various appliances being broken. What else is she hiding?

Fashion Win award: Billy looks awesome in his robes!

Denial award: Everyone's referring to the Hodges as "The posh family". If you can't face what's happening, blame "them that's got money", that's what it sounds like to me.

Woody Alert: Did you see Roy's Woody drive past in front of the Bistro when Erica came out? His 1 o'clock driving lesson.

Presumptuous award: Brian. Rent book? Really? I think Amy might have something to say about that since he's borrowing her bedroom.

Lines of the Week: 
Julie "I wouldn't go around the world with you. I wouldn't even go round the block!" 

Julie "The HMS Julie has dropped anchor in more exciting waters"
Ken to Brian "Found my kimono, I see" (How? Brian is staying in Amy's room. Is he rooting through the closets?)
Mary "I'm extremely flexible, thank you. With a good wind, I can still get my ankles behind my ears"
Mary to Talisa "He's very easily distracted. The silly man" (very pointed, too!)
Mary about Dev "Unfortunately, some people like their bread buttered on both sides" (point to Mary)
Nick about the booze "It's not the answer, though" Carla "No, but at least after a few more, you won't remember what the question is"
David to Nick "It's 'Make Your Mind Up' time, pal"
Gail "Do you always have to be so slutty?" Erica "I'm sorry. I was born this way"
Tracy to Amy "Write down 'mutton dressed as lamb'. Tell them your Grandma Liz gave it to you"
Eileen to Michael about Gail "If you don't go over there and give her a hug, I might have to and believe me, that's not something I want to go through again"


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First look pics: Kylie and David plan to nail Callum

Here are some first look pictures of Coronation Street's episode to be shown on Friday 10th July 2015.


Kylie persuades David her plan to nail Callum and show Sarah his true colours is their only hope. David reluctantly agrees.

Spotting Callum across the street, David and Kylie put their plan into action and stage a huge row for his benefit. Finding Callum, Kylie goes all out to convince him how unhappy she is with David and how she wishes she’d taken him up on his offer.

Callum falls for her act and leads her through to the back room of the Dog & Gun. David searches in vain for Sarah, realising that time is running out.

Pulling Kylie towards the sofa, Callum tells her he wants her. Wondering where on earth David has got to, Kylie tries to conceal her mounting panic.

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Sizzling Corrie summer spoilers from TV Times

 

In this week's TV Times there's some Coronation Street spoilers worth blogging about.

The first story isn't a spoiler as such but it gives a little more information about Deirdre's farewell and funeral. Deirdre's 60th birthday is coming up and everyone is excited for her homecoming. Ken buys her a new oven for her birthday, only to be given the very sad news that she has died.  Stuart Blackburn, Coronation Street producer says: "Though tragic for Deirdre's family and friends, her funeral will be full of warmth, love and laughter." 

Deirdre's funeral should see Ken and Tracy unite but TV Times say the pair will be at loggerheads after he discovers that Deirdre didn't come home sooner because she was ashamed of how Tracy has turned out.  "Tracy must confront what she's become," says Mr Blackburn.

Elsewhere this summer, Carla Connor will develop a gambling habit. She starts online gambling but her problem escalates when she hits a casino in town and becomes obsessed with poker.  She risks losing a fortune but newcomer Aidan Connor, played by Shayne Ward, is all set to save her.  He'll play Michelle Connor's cousin.  "He's a clever lad through and through," says Stuart Blackburn. "Aidan will turn a few heads but never underestimate him for behind the jokes is a clever and ambitious young man."

Roy will take his driving test this summer in the Woody - but will he actually pass?

Callum gets dumped by Sarah when she decides she wants to go back to Italy. Kylie decides that Sarah needs to know how evil Callum is first and sets Callum up, with David's help.  But when Callum finds out what's going on he blows a gasket and gets physical with Kylie.  Bethany then falls into Callum's clutches and gets seriously out of her depth.

And it looks like little Simon will give Leanne even more grief over the coming weeks.  When Liz's new fella Dan turns out to recognise Leanne from her days working as a prostitute, his arrival in Leanne's life will be too much for Simon, it's the final straw. Simon takes out all his anger and grief out on Leanne.  

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