Coronation Street star Michael Le Vell has asked for time off from the show to fight allegations that he raped a schoolgirl.

The actor, who plays Kevin Webster in the ITV1 soap, was arrested at his home in Greater Manchester last Friday after police received a report of a historical offence.

He strongly denies the claims and has received support from his co-stars, including his on-screen family members Sally Dynevor (Sally), Helen Flanagan (Rosie) and Brooke Vincent (Sophie).

Le Vell has been on holiday all week - a vacation planned before the accusations emerged - and was due to return to work on Monday.

However, he has now asked bosses to extend his break by at least one week, prompting producers to reorganise filming schedules.

A show insider told The Mirror: "It's understandable Michael wants extra time off. Everyone just hopes this can all be resolved quickly."