Corrie star: 'Roy's mum is quite fierce'

Julie Hesmondhalgh has confirmed that Coronation Street fans can expect Roy Cropper's mum Sylvie to cause a stir on the cobbles.

In December, it was announced that former Doc Martin and Tenko star Stephanie Cole had been cast in the role of Sylvie, who will soon make the surprise decision to get back in touch with her estranged son.

Speaking to Holy Soap about the forthcoming arrival, Hesmondhalgh - who plays Roy's wife Hayley - explained: "There's a cat amongst the pigeons once again - just when you get a bit of peace and quiet and normality back, Roy's mum comes into the equation and she's quite fierce."

Revealing how Hayley reacts to Sylvie, the actress continued: "She's trying to build the bridges in her usual well-meaning way, between mother and son, and I don't think either of them particularly welcome it.

"I think it's going to be really good fun. We're always at our best when they throw a random third party into our relationship. We've had a few of those and it's always great. It keeps it fresh for us as well."

Cole began filming at Coronation Street last week.