Collins' spiritual cobbles comeback

Coronation Street star Michelle Collins has revealed how psychics have persuaded her to stay on the cobbles.

The 51-year-old actress, who arrived in Weatherfield in 2011 as Rovers Return landlady Stella Price, had "seriously considered" leaving the ITV1 soap after criticism over her Northern accent but psychic Cara and life coach Simon reassured her to continue in the role.

"I was nervous to be joining Corrie, but consulted a dialect coach to get the accent right. So when I was slated, I seriously considered walking away," she told Spirit And Destiny magazine.

"But Cara and Simon gave me the confidence to stay, defy my critics and prove myself," she added.

Michelle, who previously starred in EastEnders, also claimed to have seen ghosts.

"When I was 15, I saw my best friend's spirit. I wasn't scared. I've always felt that she has been with me throughout my life, guiding me," she said.

"I also saw a ghost while staying at an old nunnery in Italy. I woke up in the night and saw a hooded figure at the end of my bed."