Actor Charlie Lawson to return to Coronation Street

Former Coronation Street star Charlie Lawson is heading back to the soap 11 years after he lost his regular part in the show.

The 49-year-old actor, who plays fiery Irishman Jim McDonald in the long-running soap, will return to the street next month for the wedding of his on-screen son, Steve. Also making a comeback is Nick Cocharane who plays the groom's twin brother, Andy.

Sources in the programme have hinted the one-off return could lead to more frequent appearances for the 49-year-old, who lost his regular part in 2000 as he battled a number of personal problems including a broken marriage, bankruptcy and drink issues. 

Earlier this year, the actor admitted he would love to return to the show. "I'd go back in a minute," he said. "He (Jim) was fun to play because I thrived on good writing."