'Coronation Street' Michael Le Vell asks for time off to clear name

Coronation Street star Michael Le Vell has asked for time off from the show to fight allegations that he raped a schoolgirl.

The actor, who plays Kevin Webster in the ITV1 soap, was arrested at his home in Greater Manchester last Friday after police received a report of a historical offence.

He strongly denies the claims and has received support from his co-stars, including his on-screen family members Sally Dynevor (Sally), Helen Flanagan (Rosie) and Brooke Vincent (Sophie).

Le Vell has been on holiday all week - a vacation planned before the accusations emerged - and was due to return to work on Monday.

However, he has now asked bosses to extend his break by at least one week, prompting producers to reorganise filming schedules.

A show insider told The Mirror: "It's understandable Michael wants extra time off. Everyone just hopes this can all be resolved quickly."