Corrie actors turn into Water Rats

There was another charity event at the past weekend to report this morning. There is a charitable organization called the Grand Order of Water Rats and they got their start in the late 1800s by donating the proceeds of a winning race pony to charities. The leader of the organization is called the King Rat and one past King has been a former Corrie star, Roy Hudd, who played Archie Shuttleworth. The Rats put on variety shows in order to raise money and they hosted a Gala Night this past weekend in Blackpool. Several Coronation Street stars were involved. In addition to Roy, also taking part were Bill Roache (Ken Barlow), Jennie McAlpine (Fiz Brown), Malcom Hebden (Norris Cole) and Bill Tarmey (Jack Duckworth). This excellent photo of Bill Roache comes from the Blackpool Gazette. This event also marks the first time Roy Hudd has ever performed in Blackpool in his 50+ years in the entertainment business!