STARS of the small screen turned out in force last night at Bolton’s Reebok Stadium for a tribute to the world’s longest-serving soap actor.

William Roache has played Ken Barlow in Coronation Street since the famous ITV soap started on December 9, 1960.

Last night, he was joined by cast members including Liz Dawn, Helen Flanagan and Katy Cavanagh, as well as other famous faces such as comedians Cannon and Ball and television presenter Stuart Hall.

It was the second celebration of the day for Mr Roache, who had already attended a party marking the 50th anniversary of the show.

It was there that he collected an accolade for becoming the longestserving soap actor in the world.

He said: “This night is a great honour and I am thrilled to bits. It’s a wonderful thing for everyone to do and I feel very humbled.

“Coronation Street was only meant to run for five weeks.

I knew it was something special, but no one could tell it would run for such a long time.

“Today I officially became the world’s longest-serving actor in an on-going drama.

It’s a nice milestone and one of those things that happens when you get old.”

Liz Dawn, who played Vera Duckworth in the soap, said: “I am here to celebrate with Bill because 50 years is amazing, it’s a lifetime. He’s done really well.”

Bolton actress Helen Flanagan, who plays Rosie Webster in the soap, said: “It’s been a really memorable day and it’s great to be here with Bill.

It’s incredible that he’s been in Coronation Street for 50 years.”

Last night’s event was organised by the Bolton branch of the Variety Club of Great Britain.

Its chairman, Paul Wild, said: “Coronation Street has a big following in Bolton and we wanted to commemorate William’s 50 years in the show.

“We are also raising money to help local disadvantaged children and hope to reach £30,000.”