From Oldham Theatre Workshop to Corrie

The expressions on the face of Michael Le Vell couldn’t make his elation clearer. Here he is seen, tired and depressed in February as he went into court

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The private life of Michael Le Vell has been laid bare during his child abuse trial with revelations of his heavy drinking and adultery.

Born in Newton Heath, Manchester, he was one of six siblings in a working class family.

Three of his sisters – one has died – and his brother sat in the public gallery during the trial to give their support.

His mother died from a brain tumour when he was 15 and his father from lung cancer when he was 22.

Le Vell said he became involved in acting aged 12 after playing a part in a school production of “Kes” — earlier made famous by Ken Loach’s film portrayal.

It led to a stint at Oldham Theatre Workshop, which has also produced star actresses Anna Friel and Suranne Jones, and performances at the town’s Coliseum Theatre.

In the early days of his career he also worked in a men’s boutique and as a plasterer’s labourer.

He got his first role on the cobbles of Weatherfield at the age of 15 and later the part of Kevin Webster, which he has played for 30 years.

After he joined the ITV1 soap in 1983, he quickly endeared himself to fans who have followed the trials and tribulations of Kevin from being Brian Tilsley’s apprentice mechanic through to his stormy marriage to Sally, played by Sally Dynevor, and fathering two girls, Rosie and Sophie.