WEATHERFIELD EXTRA

Martin Hancock admits that he’s finding his latest stint on the soap as Spider Nugent more fulfilling than the first. The actor returned to Coronation Street in July, having previously played the eco-warrior on and off between 1997 and 2003.

‘Second time around, I’m older and wiser and calmer, and I’m able to enjoy it a lot more,’ he tells us. ‘And the reaction from viewers has been really nice. It has not been as abusive as the first time around… so far!

‘People have been very, very kind. People are really happy to see Spider back. I think they hope that he makes sure Toyah’s OK. Everyone’s very concerned about Toyah.’