Bill Roache vows to fight rape charges

Coronation Street actor Bill Roache vowed today to fight allegations that he raped a 15-year-old girl in 1967.
By PAT HURST
Published 2nd May 2013, 16:48 BST
Coronation Street actor Bill Roache, who has been arrested over the rape of an underage girl. Picture: PACoronation Street actor Bill Roache, who has been arrested over the rape of an underage girl. Picture: PA
Coronation Street actor Bill Roache, who has been arrested over the rape of an underage girl. Picture: PA

In a statement he said: “I am astounded and deeply horrified by the extraordinary events of the last 24 hours.

“I strenuously deny the allegations and will now focus my full attention on fighting to preserve my innocence in the challenging times ahead.

“I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all those people who have offered me their support and good wishes at this difficult time.”