Aston signs new Corrie contract

Eleven year-old Sam Aston, who plays Coronation Street's Chesney Brown, became soap's highest paid child actor today by signing a new £40,000 contract to stay with the ITV soap, according to The Sun.

Producers originally intended for his part to only last a short time, but as Chesney became a hit with the viewers, Corrie bosses were keen to sign him for another year.

A Corrie insider said: "They are lining up more strong storylines for him and will make him into an even bigger star."

At present, Aston is favourite to snatch the 'Best Newcomer' award at the National Television Awards, to be held at the end of this month.

He said: "It's brilliant being in Coronation Street - all my mates are really jealous."