Coronation Street launches 50th anniversary appeal

Today (15 October 2010) saw the nation's favourite soap officially launch The Coronation Street 50th Anniversary Appeal.  The nationwide appeal covers three UK charities chosen by the cast earlier in the year.

Cancer Research UK, The NSPCC and The Christie Hospital in Manchester will benefit from general donations from the public and  fundraising activities both on and off air. 

Donations can be made online at www.corrie50appeal.co.uk  which can also be found at www.itv.com/corrie.

Coronation Street's Executive Producer Kieran Roberts said: "During 50 years of storylines Coronation Street has covered an enormous range of social issues. As part of our 50th anniversary activities the cast and crew felt it was important to give something back in the form of an official appeal.

"The three charities nominated carry out extraordinary work and we want to support them as much as possible over our anniversary months.  It would be fantastic to see our viewers join in wherever they can - so that our anniversary is not just a wonderful celebration, but also makes a difference". 

The Appeal has been set up with Charities Trust, a registered charity and recognised donation management organisation.  All funds raised for the appeal will be split equally amongst the three beneficiaries.  Donors can also select to donate to any of the three charities directly.

To find out more about the Coronation Street 50th Anniversary Appeal, please visit www.corrie50appeal.co.uk.

Ends

Press contacts:
For ITV Tel:    0161 952 6210