Coronation Street's Julie Goodyear has revealed she has been diagnosed with dementia.
The 81-year-old legend is renowned for her role as Bet Lynch on the Cobbles. The iconic soap star is one of Weatherfield's most beloved figures and was a series regular from 1970 to 1995.
Away from the screen, she has been happily married to her husband Scott Brand since 2007. Scott has issued a statement today to reveal they are "coming to terms" with the star's diagnosis.
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He 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 remains a patron of Willow Wood Hospice in Greater Manchester.
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