West End star Jodie Prenger has joined the cast of Coronation Street playing Glenda, the sassy sister of George Shuttleworth (Tony Maudsley).

The actress and singer - winner of the BBC's I'd Do Anything in 2008 - has an extensive resume, having appeared in shows such as Oliver!, Annie, Les Miserables and Tell Me On A Sunday.

Glenda arrives on the cobbles in a whirlwind, fresh from a stint as a cruise performer, and quickly finds herself a job behind the bar at The Rovers.

Corrie exec producer Iain MacLeod said: "Glenda sails in fresh from the cruise ships with a whiff of the exotic, quickly making best friends and enemies in equal measure.

"The character is loads of fun and has echoes of classic Coronation Street females of old.

"Jodie is a fabulous talent and we are all very excited to have her aboard. She has felt very Corrie since the moment she stepped onto set and I think the viewers will love her."

"I know I sound like a soppy sod, but it's been on my bucket list to be in Coronation Street since I was little," said Prenger.

"It's an honour, it truly is a very special moment in my life. To be part of something my family and I have loved for so long.

"And what a character, oh I have to say, total dream part. I can't wait for you all to meet fun and sassy Glenda, George Shuttleworth's sister. I love Tony Maudsley already, what a fella!

"Your first day on the cobbles is one of the most nerve wrecking experiences you'll go though and everyone was just so gloriously lovely, kind and welcoming. It was, and is, everything I expected, and more."

Prenger begins filming this week and will make her on-screen debut in early August.