Coronation Street legend Julie Goodyear diagnosed with dementia

Coronation Street legend Julie Goodyear, who played Bet Lynch, has been diagnosed with dementia, her husband has revealed.

The 81-year-old who played the iconic pub landlady of the Rovers Return on the show sought medical advice after ‘suffering forgetfulness’ but there was now ‘no hope of a reversal in the situation’, her husband Scott Brand said.

He shared news of her diagnosis in a statement, writing: “My darling wife and I have had to come to terms with this heart-breaking diagnosis.

“Unfortunately, Julie has been suffering forgetfulness for some time and we have been seeking medical advice and assistance, but we now know that there is no hope of a reversal in the situation — and that her condition will get progressively, and perhaps speedily, worse.

“We have taken the decision to publicly announce the diagnosis as Julie still loves visiting friends and eating out.

“Inevitably she is recognised, and fans love to meet her – and she them – but she can get confused particularly if she is tired. I hope people will understand.”

Goodyear played the leopard-skin-wearing, big-haired barmaid on the cobbles from 1966 to 2003.

Thanks to Goodyear, Bet Lynch became one of the ITV soap opera’s longest-serving and best-loved characters.

The iconic actress also appeared on reality shows such as Celebrity Big Brother and Celebrity Fit Club.