Revelation treat as Corrie turns 50

PAV’S PATCH:

WHAT a day today is — the fiftieth anniversary of one of the finest programmes ever to grace British television.

Of course I’m talking about “Coronation Street” which is up there with shows like “Life on Mars”, “Dad’s Army” and “Brucie’s Generation Game”.

In many ways the Street has been the backdrop to my life. It’s been around almost as long as I have, I was brought up on a street very similar, and I recognise a lot of the people.

As I’ve said before, to me it’s one of the best comedies on television and light years ahead of the tale of Cockney misery that is “EastEnders”.

Casting my mind back, I can remember being frightened of Ena Sharples — who was one of those old bats who used to shout at me for no reason; and recall the death of Martha Longhurst. I think I was seven when Martha croaked, and I thought she had actually died on set. The programme finished with no theme music so I assumed they were genuinely in mourning.

My favourite character? A tough one. Blanche has got to be up there, but I also have a soft spot for Roy Cropper and Ken Barlow. In fact, I see myself as a sort of Frankenstein hybrid of the two of them. Like Roy, I used to try discussing the origins of the Second World War in bed with my wife.

I’ve also got to admit to a liking for one of the baddies. Dead drugs dealer Jez Quigley reminds me of the bloke who sits opposite me. Perhaps it’s the South Manchester accent or perhaps it’s just the crazed look in the eyes.

Best legs? That’s got to be Becky McDonald. I wish they’d stop making her wear jeans. In short skirts she makes an old man’s heart leap.

But the Street does let itself down at times. I wish they would employ fewer Yorkshire actors and stick to people from the Manchester area. We can tell the difference in accent, especially when they say “too soops”.

I’ve never been able to understand why “Emmerdale” has so many Manchester types in its cast but “Coronation Street” seems to look towards Yorkshire.

Do you remember when there used to be real Lancashire types like Albert Tatlock and Jack Walker? By the way, can you still buy milk stout?

Also, have you noticed how many people from this dodgy Salford back street have gleaming white teeth and glowing suntans?

But it doesn’t matter. I love Corrie and fervently hope to be watching its hundredth anniversary episode.

just before I’m 104.