Julie Goodyear's husband says Coronation Street star is 'slowly fading away'

Julie Goodyear's husband has shared his heartbreak as he watches the Coronation Street star 'slowly fade away' amid her devastating battle with dementia.

The Rochdale-born legend, famous for playing Rovers Return’s no-nonsense landlady Bet Lynch in the much-loved ITV soap, revealed her diagnosis last June. Now, her husband, Scott Brand has spoken about how difficult it is to see the 81 year old's health decline.

Julie’s trademark leopard print outfits, blonde hair and colourful lipsticks live on as a heartwarming memory of the past as the 81-year-old deteriorates.

READ MORE Coronation Street legend Julie Goodyear seen for first time since dementia diagnosis as she makes 'more memories' with husband

Scott told the Mirror: "I miss the fun-loving wife that Julie had always been the larger-than-life personality that brightened up everywhere she went, and the smile that lit up every room. All of this is now slowly fading away and it's extremely painful for me to watch this deterioration.

"Julie now struggles recognising people and everyone she meets is called 'Scott'. He added: "Julie has always been extremely glamorous, going nowhere without her makeup. But now the lipsticks and makeup go unworn, and clothes are no longer of interest, especially the leopard print.

The couple met when Scott delivered plaster to Julie's home near Rochdale, Greater Manchester, in 2007. Julie joined Corrie in 1966 and became one of the most loved characters until she left in November 2003.

She was awarded an MBE for her services to drama in 1996. Scott, 55, shared his feelings about the changes in life after his wife Julie started using a wheelchair, adding: "One of the biggest things is our holidays. Julie loved going away and would always