It has been a real privilege being a part of Coronation Street.
I had a small taste of what it was like to work on such a fantastic show last summer, as I appeared in a couple of episodes and now I'm back for a lengthy stint.
As an actor it's a real treat and a luxury to play a character that you can see subtly develop over a long period of time. You really get a chance to familiarise yourself with the character - a reward that we actors don't normally get.
Another great thing about being in Corrie is working with my dad (William Roache who plays Ken Barlow). It has been really good fun. It terms of the performance it's paradoxically made it both easier and harder. Easier because there is a natural chemistry there between the characters - often a tricky part of an actor's job, but also it's more difficult as my character still doesn't know Ken that well, so it's important to maintain a sense of alienation between James and Ken and therefore the natural familiarity needs to be held back. My brother Linus has also appeared in the show and in the six years I have been an actor, I never thought I would work with both my father and brother all at the same time - it was certainly a very unique experience!
I'm really enjoying my storyline and seeing it develop and thoroughly enjoy working with Brooke and Sacha (Sophie and Sian); they're a good laugh and two wonderful actors.
Everyone is so upbeat and friendly on the show, there's a really strong sense of community, and I think that's one of the many ingredients for its tremendous success.