Corrie stars 'snubbed by Who's Who'

The new edition of Who's Who does not feature a single member of Coronation Street's current cast, it has emerged.

According to the Manchester Evening News, fans had hoped that the publication would mark the ITV1 soap's 50th anniversary by recognising the achievements of long-serving actors like Bill Roache, who has played Weatherfield's Ken Barlow since 1960.

The annual publication provides biographical details of public figures and acknowledges their professional achievements. This year, 1,000 new names have been included, including musical theatre star Ruthie Henshall and TV presenter Mariella Frostrup.

However, the only people with connections to Coronation Street to appear are Sarah Lancashire, who starred as Raquel Watts in the '90s, and Everton Football Club chairman Bill Kenwright, who appeared as Gordon Clegg from 1968 to 1969.

Defending the lack of recognition for the programme, a Who's Who spokeswoman commented: "An invitation to appear in Who's Who recognises the distinction a person has attained in his/her professional life and the influence she exerts on British society.

"Actors are considered by the selection board on the basis of their continuing and wide-ranging achievements and are ultimately selected due to their exceptional pre-eminence."

The 2010 edition of Who's Who was released today.