‘Ta-ra, chuck’
We have today revealed images of 12 stamps being issued to mark the 60th anniversary of the world’s longest running TV continuing drama, Coronation Street.
Eight stamps in the set are inspired by some of Coronation Street’s most loved duos over the years: Ena Sharples and Elsie Tanner; Stan and Hilda Ogden; Vera and Jack Duckworth; Deirdre and Ken Barlow; Rita Tanner and Norris Cole; Hayley and Roy Cropper; Sunita and Dev Alahan; and Tracy and Steve McDonald.
Each of the images is complemented with a quote that conveys the essence of the couple’s relationship. A further four stamps are presented in a miniature sheet and celebrate characters who have worked behind the bar at the iconic Rovers Return: Bet Lynch; Raquel Watts; Liz McDonald; and Gemma Winter.
The show was created by the late Tony Warren, a young man from Salford, who penned the first scripts about the inhabitants of a fictional northern backstreet with its end-of-the-row pub.
Within months of its first broadcast, which went out live on Friday 9 December 1960, Coronation Street became the country’s most-watched programme and has remained in the top 10 most-watched TV shows every week since.
The authenticity of its characters and storytelling made ground-breaking British television as the drama portrayed working class lives for the first time on the small screen. Six decades later, the unforgettable storylines and original trademark northern wit are the epicentre of a programme which is now an international hit, selling to over 100 countries.
There has now been more than 10,000 episodes of Coronation Street. Of the 50,000 characters that have walked the cobbles only one original member – Ken Barlow, played by William Roache – is still in the cast today, an international achievement noted by Guinness World Records.
Series producer, Iain MacLeod, said: ‘In our historic 60th year, it is an honour to have the show immortalised in this fashion. Coronation Street has had many iconic double acts down the years. Indeed, it’s a defining feature of the show.
‘I hope fans will agree that the ones we’ve chosen, after much-heated debate, are among the best of the bunch. This fun idea is a great way to pay homage to the nation’s best-loved soap and give lovers of Coronation Street a little smile when an envelope pops through their letterbox and they see their favourite characters looking up at them.’
Stamp strategy manager, Philip Parker, said: ‘For six decades Coronation Street’s fans have witnessed the unfolding lives of its residents, and shared their sorrows and laughter. We celebrate the nation’s best-known street with stamps showing some of its unforgettable characters.’
The full range of stamps, and other collectible products are available now at www.royalmail.com/coronationstreet and by phone on 03457 641 641.
