Corrie legend Julie Goodyear has dementia, her husband has announced. Scott Brand issued a statement on Wednesday morning confirming that he and his "darling" wife were "heartbroken".
He said he and the 81-year-old actress were coming to terms with the news. Scott, who has been married to Julie since 2007, said she had been experiencing forgetfulness for some time and had since been diagnosed after seeing doctors.
Scott said he and Julie had accepted that her condition would become "progressively worse", reports the Mirror. He said he had decided to speak out as Julia is often approached by fans, which can spark confusion for her.
Scott said: "My darling wife and I have had to come to terms with this heartbreaking diagnosis. 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. I hope people will understand."
Julie found fame as loveable barmaid Bet Lynch in Coronation Street on and off for 25 years. She made her first appearance in the soap in 1996 with a nine episode run before becoming a familiar face behind the Rover's Return.
Julie starred in the hit soap from 1970 to 1995 before returning for eight episodes in 2002 and a further seven in 2003. In 1996 Julie was awarded for her services with an MBE, she was also honoured with a Special Recognition Award at the 1995 National Soap Awards.
