Michael Le Vell returns to Corrie set after sexual assault allegations

Coronation Street actor Michael Le Vell has returned to the soap's set for the first time since being accused of sexually assaulting a child.

The 46-year-old star, who plays Kevin Webster in the TV show, was spotted driving into the Manchester studio complex this week before officially returning to filming next week.

Le Vell has reportedly refused to hide away, insisting that he will clear his name after police received a report of a historical offence involving a schoolgirl.

A friend of the star told The Mirror: "Michael has gone through hell this last week, but he says he has had enough of hiding.

"He has done nothing wrong, and all his friends are backing him 100%, so he's holding his head up high and trying his best to live a normal life while he fights this malicious allegation."

Le Vell was arrested at his Hale home last week and questioned by police for eight hours before he was bailed.

He said: "I strenuously deny these allegations and will do everything in my power to prove my innocence."

The star, who is married to Janette Beverley, has received public support from co-stars including on-screen wife Sally Dynevor. She said: "I have known Michael 25 years, and I am right behind him."

Another on-set insider added: "Nobody has any doubts about Michael's innocence. He is well liked and trusted by everybody, these allegations will do absolutely nothing to dent his reputation."

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> 'Coronation Street' actor Michael Le Vell 'gets co-stars' support'