Screaming fans were left sobbing into their pints at a York night-spot when Coronation Street's Les Battersby failed to materialise for a personal appearance.

But what was the reason? Caught up in another fight? Was he drunk? Rowing with the neighbours again?

None of the above. In fact, hellraiser Les, alias actor Bruce Jones, was busy learning his lines for the top TV soap, and had clean forgotten he was supposed to be the star turn at ikon&Diva at Clifton Moor. Bruce today sent his apologies to his fans through the Evening Press, saying he would be at the club next week - guaranteed. He said: "I'm sorry for not showing this week, but it was due to work commitments and a heavy workload at the moment.

"But I will be there next Wednesday, and I look forward to seeing you all."

Club promoter and DJ, Neill Maguire, said the club would be putting on a special event next week to make it up to the fans, with free draught bitter, lager and cider from 10pm-11pm. And there will be a limited number of admission-paid tickets available from the club for Wednesday's event.

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