Roache book signing attracts three fans

Coronation Street actor William Roache faced embarrassment when just three fans turned up to a book signing for his new autobiography.

Roache - who plays Ken Barlow on the ITV1 soap - made an appearance at a Waterstone's shop in Wilmslow, Cheshire, to promote his book Soul on the Street.

However, the event clashed with a nearby Christmas lights switch-on by Manchester United's Edwin Van Der Sar, which proved to be more popular with local residents.

An onlooker told the Daily Record: "It was a bit embarrassing but William took it all in good heart. He's a great sport and was happy to speak to those who turned up."

William had planned to give a talk about the autobiography, but it was cancelled due to lack of interest.

Store manager Kyran Donald said: "There were about 25 to 30 requests for signed copies but not everyone could make it."

Pamela Kaye, 63, who was one of the three fans, revealed: "We had a very informal chat and he gave me a peck on the cheek. He was very lovely and very easy to talk to. I was very lucky because I was thinking about not going."