THE SOAP YEARS

Abi and co might have blown a hole in Ray’s plans, but they’d better watch out, says Corrie actor Mark Frost

The storylines time will never forget

Ruthless Ray’s secret plot to demolish half of Coronation Street and redevelop the area is exposed this week, sparking a backlash from anguished residents.

The sleazy businessman has been lying and cheating to amass a portfolio of properties which he plans to knock down and make a killing. But he’s underestimated the tenacity of his ex Abi, who mobilises the locals into action. This leaves Ray – and anyone who crosses him – in danger, according to Mark Frost, who plays the schemer.

‘We’re beginning to see the cracks in Ray’s empire,’ says the former Poldark actor. ‘Things are starting to get out of control for him and the stakes are high. That, combined with his need to quell the protest, is pushing him further and further. He is becoming more desperate, and as the opposition gains numbers, he is also having to go to more extreme lengths.’

This week Sally sells her home after she’s promised a discounted smart new property in Hale Barns, but then gets a shock when she discovers that Ray owns the Hale Barns development.

After Craig confesses he saw some incriminating paperwork on Ray’s desk, Abi tells Sally, whose council contact informs her of Ray’s plans to destroy the street.

With Abi leading the fight, an army of locals makes its own wrecking plans – to gate-crash Ray’s press launch, apply to make the brewery a listed building and ask Gary’s help in preserving the factory, any of which could help scupper Ray’s scheme.

‘Like many powerful men, Ray is

arrogant, which has led to him writing off Abi as a loser,’ says Mark, 52. ‘But he’s beginning to realise that she’s actually causing more trouble than he bargained for, as she is relentless. He’s going to have to sort her out, one way or another…

‘You wouldn’t want to cross Ray – he’d get revenge. But he’d get someone else to do his dirty work. He’s a tactician and treats people like pawns in a game of chess.’

The storyline will be at the heart of the show’s 60th anniversary episodes

next week, which Mark – who grew up watching Corrie with his father and late mother – has to pinch himself about.

‘Corrie is a massive show, and its heritage is extraordinary, so to be a part of this landmark is huge and to be at the centre of the action is even more remarkable,’ he says. ‘It was a family event watching Corrie and I like to think that Mum is looking down having a smile and a giggle. It’s lovely to be a part of it all.’ ■