‘Coronation Street’ has received an award in recognition for the soap’s services to humanity.
Dr Robina Shah, Queen Elizabeth’s Representative and High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, presented the ITV show with a Certificate of Commendation after promoting awareness of personal trauma, domestic violence, and sexual, physical and emotional abuse, among other experiences, through its storylines since the programme began in 1960.
She said: "For almost 60 years, ‘Coronation Street’ has served us well by creating and producing innovative story lines that powerfully reflect profound and often unspoken real-life social issues that influence the dynamics of the society in which we live.
"Through the lens of ‘Coronation Street’ cameras, viewers have learnt about the impact on individuals and on families experiencing personal trauma, social exclusion, domestic violence, drug addiction, sexual, physical and emotional abuse, the list goes on.
"In real life these challenging issues are often faced alone and in isolation, slowly eroding self-esteem and self-value, affecting mental health and overall wellbeing.
"’Coronation Street’ is not only a worthy recipient, but also most deserving of this award, for its role in promoting and raising awareness about sensitive social issues that affect many vulnerable members in our community.
"I am extremely pleased to honour and recognise the iconic and national treasure that is ‘Coronation Street’. Many congratulations indeed to all of you who work on the programme."
Several crew and cast members – including Bill Roache, who has played Ken Barlow since the first-ever episode in December 1960 – accepted the award on the famous cobbles.
Iain McLeod, who recently took over as the show’s series producer said: "It is a genuine honour and privilege to receive this commendation on behalf of everybody who works on the programme.
"We’ve always strived to tell important stories and sometimes within those stories we are in a fortunate position where we can help inform, educate and sometimes even lead change.
"Indeed, two of our recent storylines have had such a dramatic impact on our audience that our charity partners have seen a huge surge in people using their services.
"There is no doubt television drama can both alter and save lives and that will always be an immense source of pride for all of us."
This marks the first time the High Sheriff’s Certificate of Commendation has been awarded to a TV show.
Coronation Street awarded for services to humanity
