Former Coronation Street star Julie Goodyear has been diagnosed with dementia.
The actress is best known to audiences for playing Bet Lynch on the ITV soap over a number of decades, first appearing in the role back in 1966.
In a new statement, Julie's husband Scott Brand confirmed that the star has been diagnosed with the condition after "suffering forgetfulness for some time".
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"My darling wife and I have had to come to terms with this heart-breaking diagnosis," he began.
"Unfortunately, Julie has been suffering forgetfulness for some time and we have been seeking medical advice and assistance, but we now know that there is no hope of a reversal in the situation – and that her condition will get progressively, and perhaps speedily, worse.
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"We have taken the decision to publicly announce the diagnosis as Julie still loves visiting friends and eating out.
"Inevitably she is recognised, and fans love to meet her – and she them – but she can get confused particularly if she is tired. I hope people will understand."
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Hilda Hayo, Dementia UK's CEO and Chief Admiral Nurse, said: "We're sorry to hear that Julie Goodyear has been diagnosed with dementia, and hope that she and her family are receiving the support and assistance they need at this time.
"By choosing to speak publicly about her diagnosis, Julie and her family will raise vital awareness of dementia and we hope that this will encourage others to seek advice if they have concerns for their brain health.
"We urge families affected by dementia to reach out to our specialist Helpline. Staffed by dementia specialist Admiral Nurses, our Helpline offers support and guidance on all stages of dementia, including grieving for a loved one.
"Anyone affected by dementia can contact the Helpline by calling 0800 888 6678 or emailing helpline@dementiauk.org."
Following her initial debut as Bet, Julie memorably played the part between 1970 and 1995, before brief returns between 2002 and 2003.
As well as Coronation Street, the actress made a brief appearance in Hollyoaks in 2006 as Mrs Temple, and was awarded an MBE in 1996 for services to television drama. Julie also appeared as a housemate on Celebrity Big Brother in 2012, memorably taking part in a soaps acting task alongside former EastEnders star Cheryl Fergison.
Away from acting, Julie is also a patron of Willow Wood Hospice in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester.
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.
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