The Street's Steve to become a dad

Coronation Street actor Simon Gregson has learned that he's to become a father for the first time.

According to reports in the News Of The World, the actor's fiancee Emma Gleave is due to give birth to their baby in July.

And friends say Simon, who plays Weatherfield cabbie Steve McDonald in the ITV1 soap, 'can't wait to be a dad'.

A pal said: "Emma is starting to show now and Simon is positively beaming when he's around her."

Former wildman Simon, who beat a £300-a-week cocaine habit in 1996, met cleaning company owner Emma in 2005.

The couple announced their engagement in June 2006 but their wedding, which was planned for September, has now been 'put on hold' so that they can concentrate on the birth.

Last August, Simon faced going to prison for drink-driving, but escaped with a fine and 16-month ban.

A Coronation Street insider told us: "It's been a tough couple of years for Simon so we're delighted for him.

"He deserves some good news."