Cobbles comeback for Street favourite CARLA IS

CORRIE boss Kate Oates has teased that we’re in for a Christmas treat when Alison King returns as Carla Connor.

She began filming last month and Kate has revealed that her comeback storyline is not what viewers will expect.

Fans last saw Carla in May 2016 when she said an emotional farewell to Michelle and close friend Roy Cropper following her doomed wedding to Nick Tilsley.

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Star Sunday, Kate said: “Carla’s comeback storyline is good, I don’t think it’s what people would expect.

“It’s a storyline that’s got longrunning consequences. I think when she first comes back people will be like, ‘Oh, I didn’t expect this to be her returning story’ but as it runs on things will become clear and they will realise why Corrie has brought her back.”

Kate took over the top job just as Alison was filming her exit storyline and tried her best to convince her to change her mind and stay.

She added: “I think there’s an element of once Alison recovered from sheer exhaustion, she missed it. She missed her friends and the dynamic of Corrie.

“We know each other off screen and get on really well, it’s just an element of timing. Whenever I saw her I’d be like, ‘Any chance? Have another glass of wine, any chance now?’

“It was just good timing. I’d sign her up forever. Hopefully she’s happy. And it’s my job to make sure she doesn’t feel exhausted like she did last time, because you want longevity from characters.

“It’s really hard when people are cursed by their own popularity, if you like. They are played in every storyline and that’s hard, especially when you’re on six episodes a week. The lucky thing is we have a great ensemble cast so no-one needs to feel like that.” Viewers will see Carla’s return just before Christmas.

Kate said: “She’s a little Christmas present to the nation. “There’s lots coming up with Michelle. They’re going to have some good old-fashioned barneys, but in a good way, in a thoroughly entertaining way, like when you see best friends fall out.

“It’s fiery and exciting but they love each other, so they will always work it out.”