Just last week it was reported that Coronation Street star, Bev Callard, received a massive pay cut as part of her new contract negotiations and now it appears that some of the shows older stars can expect the same treatment.

Stars such as Barbara Knox (Rita Sullivan), Betty Driver (Betty Williams), Malcolm Hebden (Norris Cole) and Eileen Derbyshire (Emily Bishop) are said to now be facing a massive drop in pay as bosses tell them they will now be paid on a per episode basis. If their pay is calculated in this way they can only expect to earn near their previous rate (said to be between £180,000 and £200,000 per year) if they are at the centre of a high profile storyline.

An insider told the newspaper: “It’s an absolute disgrace. These stars have given their heart and soul to Corrie over the years. None of them expect to be - or have the energy to be - at the centre of huge ratings-busting plots.

“Betty’s nearly 90, Eileen and Barbara are in their 70s and Malcolm Hebden is 68. Instead of being rewarded for their contribution, they are being treated little better than extras.”

A Coronation Street spokeswoman confirmed: “It is the season when a lot of the older stars will start negotiations for next year. But we do not discuss artists’ payments or contracts.”