David Neilson has shared the secret behind Roy Cropper's famous anorak during a question-and-answer session with learning disabled adults from Hft's Luv2meetU social group.
The actor, who has played Roy on Coronation Street since 1995, said the original anorak fell apart and he went shopping with the soap's wardrobe team to buy replacements. He now has enough of them to last the rest of his time on the show.
"The original anorak fell apart," he said, "so the wardrobe team and I went out and bought a load of them in different sizes. Depending on what mood Roy is in and whether he needs to look more droopy or not, that decides what size I wear. I've got enough of them to last me for the rest of my Coronation Street career."
Roy Cropper's Weatherfield history
When Roy arrived on the cobbles in 1995, he lived in Crimea Street flats alongside Deirdre Barlow. He worked at Jim's Café on Rosamund Street, and after a year bought Alma Baldwin's majority share, renaming it Roy's Rolls.
Roy's clothing has barely changed since then, and his anorak is one of the reasons he remains a fan favourite.
A special encounter
Neilson took part in the Q&A after being invited by Jon, a lifelong Coronation Street fan and member of Luv2meetU who knew the actor through his late brother Jimmy. The brothers lived in the same supported accommodation in Somerset. Jimmy died eight years ago, but David and Jon have stayed in touch.
For Jon's 30th birthday, Neilson gave him a tour of the Coronation Street set, where Jon visited Roy's Rolls and pulled a pint at the Rovers Return. "I love Coronation Street, so this was the best birthday treat ever," Jon said.
From plumber to soap star
During the online Q&A, members asked about Neilson's favourite co-stars, upcoming storylines and his life before the soap. He explained that he worked as a gas fitter and plumber before training as an actor, and originally joined Coronation Street for what was meant to be only a handful of episodes.
"I didn't want to be a plumber, so I managed to get a place at drama school. I got the part of Roy because my friend had written a few episodes for Coronation Street and thought I'd be a good fit for the character," Neilson said.
The event gave group members the opportunity to speak directly to one of the programme's best-known stars, share their own interests and ask the questions that mattered to them.
Luv2meetU and Hft
The virtual Luv2meetU group was launched during the Covid pandemic to help learning disabled adults stay connected, socialise and reduce isolation during lockdown. It has continued because of the friendships and sense of community it created.
The wider Luv2meetU programme supports learning disabled adults through social activities and practical support. Groups operate in Cheshire, North Wales, Merseyside, Bradford and Bristol, alongside the virtual programme. Members take part in activities such as coffee mornings, shopping trips, days out and life-skills sessions.
Hft supports more than 2,800 adults with learning disabilities across England and Wales, helping people live with greater choice, independence and dignity.
