Coronation Street's cast members praised the Queen following her visit to the Weatherfield set on Thursday. The Queen "brought the sunshine" as she visited the long-running soap opera as part of its 60th anniversary celebration.

       The Queen was greeted by four of Coronation Street's longest-serving actors outside the Rovers Return Inn.

       Actress Barbara Knox, who plays Corrie favourite Rita Tanner said, "She is absolutely unique in the world and we've got to look after her."

       Following her visit, William 'Bill' Roache said, "She's always smiling, always ready for a laugh."

       "She's absolutely charming and she always listens. She was twinkling her way through it."

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       William Roache holds the world record for longest-serving soap actor after first appearing on Coronation Street as Ken Barlow in its first episode in 1960.

       The Queen spent around 40 minutes touring the set and speaking to cast members.

       She had last visited the set of Coronation Street in 1982 with Prince Philip.

       Since then, Coronation Street has moved from Manchester to MediaCity in Salford.

       Whilst touring the famous set, she was given a piece of advice "Don't walk on the cobbles!" from actress Sue Nicholls who plays Audrey Roberts.

       Before receiving a tour of the Rovers Return Inn, she was praised by actress Barbara Knox "You've brought the sunshine".

       The Queen in return praised the show for managing to "carry on" during the pandemic.

       To this, William Roache replied. "No Ma'am, it's you that's carried on."

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       Coronation Street has been a staple of British television since the first episode aired in December 1960.

       The Queen is reportedly a fan of the show and has been known to watch soap operas such as Keeping up Appearances.

       Her visit was part of the Queen's official visit to Manchester, which included a tour of Manchester Cathedral.

       The Queen has recently been incredibly busy after attending the Windsor Horse Show, visiting Scotland for a week and hosting German Chancellor Angela Merkel at Windsor Castle.