Coronation Street is said to be lining up a heartbreaking Christmas storyline for Rita Tanner.
The Weatherfield legend will reportedly have another brush with death after she suffers an accident involving a Christmas tree.
It's claimed that the plot, which is set to highlight the plight of the lonely and elderly over the festive period, will see Rita suffer a fall while attempting to put up some fairy lights.
It's said that Rita will be left trapped beneath the tree for several days waiting for someone to help after it falls on top of her.
Coronation Street viewers feared for Rita two years ago when it was discovered that she had a brain tumour after she displayed memory loss.
Thankfully it was found that the tumour was benign, and that she was going to be okay.
Actress Barbara Knox, 86, who has played Rita since 1964, told how she worked with scriptwriters and charity Brain Tumour Research to ensure her character's brain tumour storyline was handled sensitively and accurately.
In 2010 Rita was trapped in the wreckage of the 50th anniversary tram crash that rocked the cobbles.
Rita was found in The Kabin having suffered cuts and bruises, but was left traumatised by the ordeal.
In 1989 she managed to escape with her life while running away from her abusive ex Alan Bradley.
The villain gave chase after tracking her down in Blackpool and was killed after being hit by a tram.
Rita has been single since her previous husband Dennis Tanner left her for Gloria Price.
Her friend Gemma Winter was living with her but has moved back in with Chesney Brown, the father of her quads, as they make a new start as a family.
