Coronation Street actor Bill Roache has issued a statement saying he is "astounded and horrified" by events of the last 24 hours and strenuously denies the allegations against him.

Yesterday he was charged with 2 counts of rape. The accusations date back to 1967.

It is alleged one victim, a 15-year-old girl, was involved. The 81-year-old will appear in court later this month.

ITV has confirmed he will not be in Coronation Street again until proceedings are over.

His full statement reads: "I am astounded and deeply horrified by the extraordinary events of the last 24 hours. I strenuously deny the allegations and will now focus my full attention on fighting to preserve my innocence in the challenging times ahead. I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all those people who have offered me their support and good wishes at this difficult time".