'Coronation Street' stars prepare to film rape storyline

Coronation Street's tragic rape storyline featuring Carla Connor will start being filmed by the soap next week, reports have revealed today.

Earlier in the summer, it emerged that the factory boss will be subjected to a physical and sexual assault by twisted boyfriend Frank Foster after he becomes jealous over her feelings for Peter Barlow.

More details about the dark plotline have emerged today, with The Sun reporting that Frank's attack occurs after Carla calls off plans to marry him and declares her love for Peter (Chris Gascoyne).

Although Frank (Andrew Lancel) later tries to convince Carla that the rape was her fault, she apparently reports him to the police and receives loyal support from Maria Connor, who had a frightening experience with Frank earlier this year.

In a further development, when Peter discovers what Frank has done, he reportedly attacks the evil businessman and is later arrested by the police for affray.

The act of rape is not expected to feature on screen to avoid upsetting viewers. Coronation Street bosses and actress Alison King, who plays Carla, are understood to have thoroughly researched the plot with the help of rape support groups.

A Weatherfield source told the newspaper: "These scenes will be uncomfortable to watch to say the least - but you don't see the actual rape because that might be too disturbing for younger viewers."

The insider added: "This is such a sensitive subject and it's important to get it right."

Coronation Street's rape storyline is expected to begin in September.

Read more about Carla's current Coronation Street storylines:-
> Coronation Street boss promises big Carla plot
> Alison King: 'Corrie's Carla won't have affair'
> Coronation Street Carla Connor 'to crash into bookies'
> Corrie star: 'Carla is an itch Peter has to scratch'