SHE'S still got the knack. Julie Goodyear pulled a perfect pint at the Grand Opera House in York, even though it is nearly seven years since she was behind the bar in Coronation Street.

This rover is set to return in May. That is when Julie recreates her most famous role, Bet Gilroy, ne Lynch, Coronation Street's diva in dangly earrings.

York is doubly blessed. First we have the chance to see the actress in a different role on the stage; then we can watch her stride back into the Street, hopefully injecting some much-needed zip into a soap that is now a pale imitation of its glorious best.

Updated: 10:23 Tuesday, February 05, 2002