Coronation Street takes top spot in festive ratings war

Coronation Street beat its arch rival Eastenders last night in the Christmas ratings war.

It is the first time in more than a decade that the Manchester-based drama has taken the honour of top festive soap.

Coronation Street tied with Doctor Who on 8.3 million viewers, to claim joint second spot in the viewing league.

This year's figures will be seen as a setback for EastEnders. Last night, Danny Dyer was introduced to viewers as pub landlord Mick Carter.