Coronation Street signs Doctor Who producer

Doctor Who series producer Phil Collinson has been appointed as the new producer of Coronation Street.

Phil will join Coronation Street in March of next year, as the ITV1 soap gears up for its 50th anniversary.

He replaces current producer Kim Crowther, who will be stepping down from her role after two and half years.

Phil said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be joining Corrie, the nation’s favourite street and a show I've been a huge fan of all my life.

"It goes without saying that it's a tremendous honour to be entrusted with building on Coronation Street's success and creating the must-see storylines for 2010 and beyond."

He went on: "Kim will be a tough act to follow but I will be working with one of the best teams in the business and I can't wait to get stuck in."

Of her departure, Kim said: "Coronation Street is very special to me. It’s been a huge privilege to work with such a wonderful cast, production and writing team.

"I'm delighted to be passing the baton to Phil, and wish him all the best for what should be a spectacular 50th year for the show."

Earlier this month it was revealed that ex-Hollyoaks producer Bryan Kirkwood would be taking over from executive producer Diederick Santer on EastEnders.

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