Flash Entertainment

Here are some pictures showing the collaboration between Coronation Street and ITN, which is running all week for the soap's 50th anniversary.

Over the next few days, Corrie's official website is hosting specially-filmed news bulletins featuring anchor Alistair Stewart and reporter Caroline Whitmore as they cover the breaking story of the devastating explosion and tram crash on the cobbles.

Appearing each night after the latest episode of Corrie airs, the news bulletins will feature eyewitness accounts from local residents and updates on the ongoing rescue work.

Other material appearing online this week will include access to a Coronation Street story conference, a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the tram crash, a documentary fronted by Craig Charles exploring memorable Weatherfield stunts from over the years, and a special goodbye VT from one of the characters who perishes in the tragedy.

ITV.com's editor Ben Freeman commented: "The expansion of digital activity for ITV.com is hugely important, and we're really excited about the potential for top storylines to spin out onto other platforms - we know fans expect Corrie to be strong online. 

"We're working with the scriptwriters, cast and crew on this and we're sure fans will love getting deeper insight into storylines and characters in new and exciting ways."