Samia Smith comforted by co-star after split?

Samia Smith is being comforted by her Coronation Street co-star Will Thorp following her marriage split, it has been claimed.

The actress, who plays Maria Connor in the ITV soap, announced her separation from husband of five years Matthew earlier this week.

Samia, 28, is believed to have formed a strong bond with Thorp, who portrays her new love interest Chris Gray in the Weatherfield serial.

An insider told The Sun that the actor has been "a tower of strength and support" for Samia.

Thorp's wife and two kids are reportedly based in Somerset, 200 miles from the programme's Manchester set.

Samia and Matthew have a 15-month-old daughter, Freya.

> Corrie star hints at Maria, Chris troubles