[Scarlett.]

Corrie has just been officially awarded two Guinness World Records titles, at the a once in a lifetime street party on the set, launching the countdown to our 50th Anniversary on 9th December.

Coronation Street is now the longest-running TV soap opera in the world, and actor William Roache (Ken Barlow) has become the world's longest serving soap actor.

Both records have been acknowledged in the recently released 2011 Guinness World Records book.

Executive Producer, Kieran Roberts, says: 'These days it's rare for any drama to run for more than a few years. In fact, back in 1960, Coronation Street was originally commissioned for just 13 episodes. Therefore its truly is an extraordinary achievement, that fifty years later, the show remains hugely popular in Britain and around the world.'

He added: 'Ken Barlow is one of British television's most iconic characters, thanks to William's tremendous skill as a character actor but also thanks to his wonderful professionalism. Everyone connected with Coronation Street is very proud to acknowledge William's richly-deserved record as the world's longest serving soap actor.'

Craig Glenday, Editor-in-chief of Guinness World Records revealed: 'Coronation Street truly is a great British institution. Its exciting and vibrant storylines have enthralled the nation for half a century, and the fact that it continues to do so is testament to its quality writing and continued relevance in the 21st century.'