CORONATION STREET STAR FOUND NOT GUILTY OF RAPE AND INDECENT ASSAULT
Coronation Street star William Roache has been found not guilty of two rapes and four indecent assaults.
Mr. Roache, who plays Ken Barlowe, in the soap had been on trial at Preston Crown Court.
81 year old William Roache has appeared in Coronation Street since its first episode in 1960 and is the world’s longest-serving soap opera actor
Five women had claimed he assaulted them when they were aged 16 or under between 1965 and 1971.
During the 3-week trial Mr. Roache denied knowing any of his accusers.
The prosecution had accused Mr. Roache of using his fame and popularity to exploit the girls, however his defence said the womens’ evidence lacked credibility.
Today’s verdict means William Roache is free to rebuild his career and return to the Street soon.
There has been no reaction yet from the programme makers at Coronation Street
