CORONATION STREET bosses shouldn’t have any trouble filling their latest role – they’re searching for a hunk to play Sarah Harding’s on-screen husband.
Producers are bringing Tracy Barlow’s long-lost ex-hubby Robert Preston back to the cobbles, and former Girls Aloud beauty Sarah will play his wife.
The new casting sets the scene for a tumultuous love triangle between Sarah’s character — whose name has not yet been revelaed — husband Rob and Tracy, played by Kate Ford.
In scenes to air in late summer, viewers will see Robert arrive and jump back into bed with Tracy.
The love rat, who hasn’t been seen since New Year’s Day 2003, returns to Weatherfield and sweeps Tracy off her feet, claiming to be single.
However, when sexy Sarah turns up looking for him, Robert’s secret is out.
Bosses are auditioning hunky actors, aged around 35, and hope whoever fills the role will become a permanent fixture on the soap.
Tracy married Robert in a £14 wedding dress in 1996, much to the annoyance of the Barlow family, before moving to London. They divorced six years later.
Our Street source said: “Robert is going to be a really good character and shake things up for Tracy.
“When we last saw him he was a carpet fitter but these days he’s a chef.
“The love triangle will be gripping and viewers will be waiting for the penny to drop as he tries to juggle two very strong women.”
Sarah’s role on Corrie was announced last week.
The singer, whose acting credits include Bad Day, and St Trinians 2, starts filming next month. She said: “I am extremely excited to be joining Coronation Street.
“As a fan it’s a huge honour for me to join.
“I can’t wait to get started!”