Light relief for soap

Veteran comedian Roy Hudd is to join Coronation Street.

He will play Archie Shuttleworth, a romantic interest for battleaxe Blanche Hunt.

Hudd, who once wrote jokes for Tony Blair's speeches, said: "I have been an ardent fan of Coronation Street since Ena Sharples first put on a hair net.

"I've a fair bit of drama under my belt so it is a great thrill to be joining the cast of the most popular programme in the country."

Hudd's character is expected to bring a little light relief to Wetherfield.

The news of his recruitment to the show comes days after Street bosses announced that they were axing some familiar faces in a bid to shore up the ratings."

Published: 12 Jan 2002