The 78-year-old will be seen on the cobbles early next year in the role of Eric, a carpet salesman who has been dating Gloria.
© PA Images / Brian O'Sullivan/EMPICS Entertainment
© ITV
Gloria has been absent from Weatherfield in recent weeks but she returns in 2013 with Eric in tow, according to the Daily Star.
West has a large number of stage, film and television credits to his name, including historical drama series Edward the Seventh and comedy-drama Brass.
The actor is married to Fawlty Towers star Prunella Scales.
Coronation Street viewers saw Gloria leave the Rovers Return in disgrace last month after she was caught out for fixing a 'Pub of the Year' competition. She will no doubt be hoping to make amends with daughter Stella (Michelle Collins) upon her return in the New Year.
