Catherine Tyldesley has hailed her Coronation Street co-star as the ‘nicest’ as his dark storyline plays out on-screen, as she revealed their long-standing connection.

The actress has been back filming for weeks, but she is yet to be seen on-screen as she reprises the role of Eva Price in the ITV soap.

It’s been seven years since the Cath and her Weatherfield alter-ego were last seen on the famous cobbles, with her having first taken on the role from 2011 to 2018.

But it was confirmed in August that Eva would be heading back to the Street to run the beloved Rovers Return pub – and she won’t be alone.

Cath will be joined by two exciting new additions to the cast – acclaimed actors Aaron McCusker and Pauline McLynn, who play Eva’s partner Ben Driscoll and his interfering mother, Maggie.

Ahead of her first scenes back airing, Cath has been keeping her fans and followers updated on social media, with many pictures of her transforming back into Eva, as well as updates on her life away from the cobbles.

In her latest update, amongst the soap star’s pictures was one with fellow Corrie star James Cartwright, who joined the long-running show earlier this year in the role of Theo Silverton.

Alongside the post, Cath wrote: “Some recent loveliness: One of the nicest men in showbiz the lovely James, portraying a reet nasty pasty Ont cobbles. I’ve known this one since we were 13 at theatre school. What a legend. Reunited!”

She went on to caption each of the other images, posting: “My darling boy @andrewaaronb who is currently smashing it in @1330musical. We did Bonnie & Clyde together – an angel. Mum life in our fave place – the woods!

“Celebrating my mum and dad’s 50th wedding anniversary!! What an achievement!! They got married at 17&18! IMAGINE! Brunch with my sister Irises Godmummy @drjonquillechantrey and our gorgeous mums. Eva-ing.”

In response, Emmerdale star Michelle Hardwick, who plays Vanessa Woodfield in the Dales, commented: “I adore James,” to which Cath replied: “Me too! Gorgeous human.”

Meanwhile, fans were sharing their delight at Cath’s Corrie return. @emily_theatre92 said: “Looking forward to Eva’s return! Hope you’re having a blast back at Corrie.” @rickygibson_30 commented: “Eva’s back! @auntiecath17 please say you’re back for good.”

@iamchelseagray wrote: “James is a beautiful soul! So looking forward to seeing you back on the cobbles.” @harvardsdad replied: “So excited that you’re back!” @multifangirleditposts added: “I’m soo looking forward to see Eva back on screen! And congratulations to your mum and dad!”