A CHESTER artist has presented a painting to Coronation Street star William Roache at a book signing in the city.

John Donnelly has spent the past fortnight on the piece, which depicts Mr Roache’s first ever scene in the soap as Ken Barlow in 1960.

The television star, 86, met fans at WHSmith on Foregate Street and signed copies of his book, Life And Soul: How to Live a Long and Healthy Life.

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Mr Donnelly said he had loved working on the painting at his usual spot on the city Walls and many people had stopped to comment on it.

After unveiling the piece to Mr Roache, he told The Standard: “It was a great moment. He remembers everything about that scene, which is of him having dinner with his father. It really took him back.

“He is a lovely man; you can tell straight away when you meet him.”

Mr Donnelly added: “The reason we did it is that there have been a lot of book signings over the years but someone of his longevity deserves a bit more of a tribute.

“It’s good for Chester as well and hopefully we’ve given him a nice memory of coming to the city.”