Work starts on new Coronation Street studio in Salford

Stars from Coronation Street have taken part in a groundbreaking ceremony near Salford's MediaCity, marking the start of construction on the soap's new home.

The show, the world's longest running television drama, is due to relocate from central Manchester to a new 7.7-acre studio and production facility.

William Roache and Michelle Keegan, who play Ken Barlow and Tina McIntyre, donned hard hats for the ceremony.

The soap's new home is expected to be completed by spring 2013.

The new studio and production facility will be based across the water from MediaCity, the planned new home of ITV Studios' production and management teams, regional news and support staff.

William Roache, who plays the soap's longest running character, said: "It's over 50 years since I first walked on to a Coronation Street set.

"Now I'm here with Michelle, starting the build of our new home - the one that will take us well into this century - and it feels fantastic."