Coronation Street pays special tribute to the show’s friend Martyn Hett after Manchester bombing
Coronation Street will pay tribute to show superfan Martyn Hett who was killed in a terrorist attack on Monday by dedicating a bench on the set to him and the other victims.
Martyn was one of 22 people who lost their lives when a suicide bomber struck at an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena.
Another 59 people were seriously injured in the incident, and police have since made several arrests.
Martyn was well known among soap fans as a Coronation Street obsessive.
He and his then-boyfriend Russell Hayward had the words Deirdre and Ken tattooed on their body to show their love for the Barlows.
Related: Family of Manchester attack victim Martyn Hett issues an emotional thanks to online supporters
Martyn even had a Deirdre face tattoo on his leg, which he eventually sought to remove with a visit to Tattoo Fixers.
A screen card in memory of all the victims was displayed at the end of last night’s episode, and ITV has now shared an additional message.
“In memory of our friend Martyn Hett and all the victims of the Manchester bombing on Monday night we will be dedicating a bench on the Coronation Street set to remember everyone affected by the atrocity,” producers said.
“The dedication will be planned in the coming weeks following an outpouring of affection for 29-year-old Corrie superfan Martyn and all those who lost their lives and have been injured following the Manchester Arena bombing.
“The bench will be positioned in the new extension to the Coronation Street which is in the early stages of construction at the programme’s Trafford site and the transcription will be as follows:
“For Martyn and all those who lost their lives on 22nd May 2017. We Stand Together.”
Martyn was feared missing in the immediate aftermath of the blast and on Wednesday Russell confirmed the tragic news that his friend had died.
“We got the news last night that our wonderful iconic and beautiful Martyn didn’t survive,” he said.
“Thankfully I have his wonderful family and amazing friends to keep each other strong. I love you Martyn I always will. X”
Martyn worked in public relations and was a popular figure in the LGBT community with a strong following on social media.
He was due to travel to the US for two months after the Ariana Grande show, where he planned to join a meet-up of Mariah Carey fans and attend The Wendy Williams Show.
Mariah Carey today honoured Martyn’s memory with a moving post on Instagram mourning his passing.
Emergency numbers have been established for anyone who is concerned for loved ones who may not have returned home: 0161 856 9400 or 0161 856 9900.
