Coronation Street viewers say ‘precious’ Roy Cropper needs ‘protecting at all costs’ following emotional episode

Coronation Street viewers have rekindled their love for the soap’s veteran character, Roy Cropper, following a touching moment during Wednesday night’s episode.

Roy, played by David Neilson, has been a staple part of the ITV soap since 1995 and has gained a loyal fanbase for his soft and gentle demeanour over the years.

And in a recent double episode aired on Wednesday evening, which saw him take his niece Nina Lucas to the murder trial of Seb Franklin, fans discovered a whole new appreciation for the Weatherfield icon.

ITV

In the episode, Nina rushed her uncle to get her to the police station to give a full account of what happened on the night of the attack and, when they did eventually arrive at court, they had a bit of time to wait before it was Nina’s turn in the witness box.

There, Roy revealed to Nina that he had bought her original clothes along in the hope she’d return to her gothic identity, which she had dropped following the horrifying attack and Seb’s subsequent death.

He asked his niece: “May I ask you a question? Why are you still not dressing like you used to?” When she explained that the attack had frightened her, Roy responded: “So they win?”

He went on to tell Nina that he ‘knows what it’s like to be made fun of’, but insisted he knew it wasn’t the same as her experience.

ITV

He said: “People have commented on the way I look. My hair, clothes. Oh I know they just say it’s harmless banter, but it can be very cruel.”

And, as Nina took to the witness box, Roy could be seen giving her an encouraging wave from his seat on the other side of the courtroom.

Of course, the moment touched the hearts of Corrie viewers all over the country, with many taking to social media to express their love for good old Roy. One person wrote: “We all need a Roy in our lives – he must be protected at all costs.”

Another tweeted: “Protect Nina and Roy’s bond at all costs. It’s so beautiful and pure.”

Coronation Street is next on tonight at 7pm on ITV.