Hudd returns to Corrie for Blanche's funeral

Actor Roy Hudd is to reprise his Coronation Street role as Archie Shuttlleworth for Blanche Hunt's funeral.

The 73-year-old, who played Archie the undertaker for sporadic stints between 2002 and 2006, returns to filming at the Weatherfield soap in a fortnight's time for two episodes to air in May.

In 2002, Blanche briefly dated Archie but their romance soon came to an end. She went on to romance wealthy OAP Wally Bannister (Bernard Cribbins).

The double episode will commemorate the late Maggie Jones's career with Coronation Street. At the end of last year, Jones died at the age of 75 after a long battle with illness.

Last week, the cast of Coronation Street celebrated their co-star's life at a memorial service held at Salford Cathedral.