Julie Goodyear's dementia diagnosis left ex Coronation Street co-star Sue Jenkins 'heartbroken'

Julie Goodyear's dementia diagnosis has left her ‘Coronation Street' co-star Sue Jenkins “heartbroken”.

The 64-year-old actress praised the “wonderful” 'Corrie' legend, but admitted they haven’t been in contact “recently”, as she spoke about how the cobbles icon - who played Rovers Return barmaid Bet Lynch on and off from 1966 to 2003 - has been diagnosed with the neurological condition, which leads to memory loss, language issues and other cognitive problems.

Sue - who played Weatherfield resident Gloria Todd from 1985 to 1988 - told the Daily Mirror newspaper: “Julie was wonderful. I have such great memories working with her. We have touched base over the years but not recently.

“It’s the saddest thing, but unfortunately, it just seems so common now. It’s heartbreaking how many people are suffering - we really have got to get to the bottom of why and fight it. There are so many theories out there on what causes dementia; it’s frightening, it seems out of our control.”

The ex ‘Brookside’ star reminisced about Julie, recalling she and the late Betty Driver, who played Betty Williams in the ITV1 soap, being so “welcoming” to her.

She said: “Julie and Betty Driver were so sweet and welcoming. I remember being utterly terrified before my first scene in The Rovers. I grew up watching it. My parents loved it. They couldn’t believe I was going to be in it! It was nerve-wracking.”

The 81-year-old soap star’s health update was shared by her husband Scott Brand, 55, last month after the couple had "come to terms" with her diagnosis.

He said: “My darling wife and I have had to come to terms with this heartbreaking news.

“Unfortunately, Julie has been suffering forgetfulness for some time and we have been seeking medical advice and assistance, but we now know that there is no hope of a reversal in the situation – and that her condition will get progressively, and perhaps speedily, worse.

“We have taken the decision to publicly announce the diagnosis as Julie still loves visiting friends and eating out. Inevitably she is recognised, and fans love to meet her – and she them – but she can get confused particularly if she is tired.”