'Hollyoaks' stars congratulate Carley Stenson

Carley Stenson's former Hollyoaks co-stars have publicly congratulated the actress over her success in the West End.

Yesterday, it was announced that Stenson is to take over the lead role of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, The Musical from July.

Stenson, who played Hollyoaks' Steph Roach for a decade, has already been part of the production since October last year, appearing as supporting character Margot.

Writing on Twitter last night, the star's former colleague and ex-boyfriend Ricky Whittle commented: "Huge congrats to @carleystenson the most talented girl I know becoming the lead in West End's amazing show Legally Blonde from July. Deserved!!"

He added: "@carleystenson an inspiration to all! Achieving her dreams of playin the lead in the West End! Gonna be one of the greats! Unbelievable talent. (sic)"

Sarah Jayne Dunn, who plays Mandy Richardson on the soap, said: "Congrats to my beautiful friend @carleystenson who is taking over as Elle in #legallyblonde go see her!!!"

Bronagh Waugh - Cheryl Brady in the show - tweeted Stenson to say: "Baby!!! Well done!!!!! Hurrah!! Knew u'd ace it!!! Big love from uuup North from the Oakers!!! Love ya."

Ashley Margolis (Ricky Campbell) and Melissa Walton, who played Loretta Jones, also tweeted support for the actress.

Stenson departed Hollyoaks late last year, when her character was killed in the Il Gnosh fire.

> Read our Hollyoaks spoilers and news

Relive the moment that Steph tied the knot with Gilly in Hollyoaks in the video below: