Corrie goes HD

'Coronation Street' fans will be able to see every bubble in a pint of Newton & Ridley best bitter after ITV1 announced today that the programme is to be screened in HD.

The soap, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, will be given the warts-and-all treatment from May 31 when it will be shown on the ITV1 HD channel.

The network has invested millions in new technology at ITV Studios’ Manchester base, which will allow the cobbles to be shot and aired in high definition ahead of its December half-century milestone.

Peter Fincham, ITV’s director of television, channels and online, said: “It is fitting that, in its golden anniversary year, 'Coronation Street' should be entering the era of high definition.

“It is fantastic news for ITV viewers, who will be able to enjoy a better-than-ever experience of their favourite soap, and joins an impressive range of high-definition shows available on ITV1 HD, including this summer’s World Cup.”

Cameras, production vehicles, lighting and editing facilities have all had to be upgraded.

The exteriors of some of the sets have also been spruced up to bring them up to scratch, with fresh licks of paint given to landmarks such as the Rovers Return and Roy’s Rolls cafe.

Also moving to HD will be the live stages of 'Britain’s Got Talent', 'Lewis', and England’s World Cup warm-ups against Mexico and Japan.

Kieran Roberts, 'Coronation Street' executive producer, said: “'Coronation Street' is known for its wonderful writing and performances but we’re also very proud of the technical expertise and excellence that goes into making the programme.

“Our engineers and crews have done a fantastic job in taking the show to high definition and I’m especially pleased that it’s happening in the year 'Coronation Street' celebrates being 50 years young.”