Claire Sweeney signs new Coronation Street contract

Claire Sweeney has signed a new contract to remain on 'Coronation Street' for another year.

The 53-year-old actress - who plays homeless drug addict Cassie Plummer on the ITV soap - has put pen to paper on a 12-month deal, and she "couldn't be happier" on the show.

She told Cheshire Life magazine: "I've just signed my contract for another year in 'Corrie', and I'm really happy to fully invest all my time and energy into Cassie and see what develops."

Former 'Brookside' actress Claire admitted it has been a "dream come true" working with actors such as Dame Maureen Lipman, who plays Cassie's mother Evelyn Plummer.

Claire added: "I couldn't be happier about the acting scenes I have done recently in 'Coronation Street' with Dame Maureen Lipman in the Rovers, and with Alan Halsall and Jennie McAlpine in the Dobbs household.

"When I first came in to 'Corrie', I did a 14-page scene with Maureen while my character was in hospital. Playing opposite such a phenomenal actor was a dream come true.

"The writing and direction for that episode was amazing. That is definitely one of my highlights."

Away from the cobbles, Claire took part in 'Dancing on Ice' earlier this year.

She was the third celebrity voted off the ITV ice-skating show, but she had an "incredible" time in the competition.

Despite her ice exit, Claire's stint on the show has been a positive for another reason - after she hooked up with fellow 'Dancing on Ice' star Ricky Hatton.

Claire and the former pro boxer appeared to confirm their romance this week when they made their red-carpet debut at the Co-Op Live arena launch in Manchester.

Ricky wrote on Instagram: "Great night with claire @claire.sweeney tonight at the pre opening of the fantastic new @thecooplive @coopuk in manchester. @officialrickastley was awesome the legend. Brill night all round with @speak3536 and denise. (sic)"