Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson) is a Coronation Street icon, having been a familiar face on the cobbles since 1997.

Unfortunately, she hasn’t been very lucky in love during that time – but that could be set to change.

Executive Producer Kate Brooks has revealed a brand new love interest for the soap stalwart, and he is connected to Alya Nazir (Sair Khan).

‘We have Idris. He’s Alya’s cousin. He is very, very charming. The charm oozes out of every pore of this guy,’ Kate teased.

‘He’s a savvy kind of business guy, he’s got a bit of a ruthless streak, he’s not ready to get his hands dirty slightly, but he can charm the birds from the trees.’

Leanne has been known to fall for charm in the past, having previously been won over by cult leader Rowan.

Her involvement with The Institute led to the end of her relationship with childhood sweetheart Nick Tilsley (Ben Price), who broke her heart by cheating on her with sister Toyah Battersby (Georgia Taylor).

Nick and Leanne had an on-and-off relationship for decades, and were even married for some of that time.

Away from Nick, Leanne has had relationships with Peter Barlow, Jamie Baldwin and Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson), among others.

‘He’s a new love interest for Leanne,’ Kate explained. ‘The attraction is instantaneous. It gives Leanne a new lease of life.

‘She’s been harbouring a deep-rooted resentment towards Toyah and Nick, because that’s the life she had. And this guy comes along, he’s got it all, he makes her laugh. He’s funny, he’s a handsome chap, and he ruffles a lot of feathers, but he’s not without an edge. He’s not soft, and he’s certainly no pushover. ‘