Coronation Street's Claire Sweeney called 'gorgeous' by Ricky Hatton in first public message after romance rumours

Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney has received a sweet public message from Ricky Hatton weeks after they sparked romance rumours by hanging out in Greater Manchester together.

The actress was celebrating on Wednesday (April 17) as she marked her 53rd birthday with the help of her adorable son, Jaxon. Claire, who plays Cassie Plummer in ITV's Corrie, took to social media in the morning to share how she was heading for a workout while her son got her a special birthday breakfast.

While she did have work to do on her special day, she returned to social media after her gym visit and could be seen sharing a warm embrace with eight-year-old Jaxon as she held a birthday card in her hand. In a video of the sweet moment, Claire could be heard saying to her son: "Give us a kiss," as he planted one on her cheek.

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While the former Brookside star posted the photo and video to her Instagram page without a caption, the messages came flooding in. Retired boxer Ricky responded by writing: "xxxxxx," to which Claire responded with red love hearts.

Radio 1 presenter Ricky Haywood-Williams commented: "Happy Birthday Claire." Actress Keeley Hawes posted: "Happy birthday!" Dancing on Ice co-star Adele Roberts shared: "Happy birthday beautiful!"

But Ricky also took to his own Instagram page with a tribute to Claire. Posting selfies of the pair as they took part in Dancing on Ice together on ITV earlier this year, he said: "Happy birthday claire. Have the best day gorgeous. Lots of love. Ricky. xxx @claire.sweeney."

The birthday girl responded by saying: "Thank you darling,"