Watch out, Leanne Battersby’s about to return to Coronation Street... with a tan, a smart wardrobe and trouble in her eye! Actress Jane Danson reveals all. What’s Leanne been up to? "She’s been in Spain for six months, hence the suntan. She says she’s made a bit of money in the Spanish property market, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it turned out that she blew Danny’s £50k on designer clothes and has got this newfound wealth by doing something a bit dubious." Has she changed at all? "She certainly looks different. She’s gone upmarket. They took me out to get her new wardrobe and it’s definitely a step up from her old look. However, Leanne being Leanne, she still manages to look like a walking car crash. She’s pretty full of herself too. She’s going round, talking a bit of Spanish – asking for drinks in Roy’s and showing off a bit." Who does she bump into first when she gets back? "Jamie! He’s sent to pick her up from the station. He’s a bit shocked but they end up having a drink together and Leanne apologises for what she did. Jamie says he can’t forgive her, but realizes there’s no point in hating her." Is there still chemistry between them? "No, that’s all gone. After all that’s happened, I don’t think they could ever get back together again. Their little reunion is a bit of a red herring, although Leanne does spend the night at Jamie’s and pretends to seduce him wearing Frankie’s dressing gown. It’s only for a laugh though." So, she doesn’t want Jamie back? "No, that’s all water under the bridge. She’s over Danny too. She’s going to be on the lookout for the next unlucky bloke." What does she think of the Jamie and Frankie business? Janice has filled her in on that and I would guess she’s a bit peeved." Why is she back on Coronation Street? "She’s back because of Janice. She’s her anchor, her best mate and she misses her." Have you enjoyed your maternity leave? "Yes, I have. I had a little boy called Harry last July and I’m really enjoying motherhood. It’s the best thing that ever happened to me. But it’s great to be back at work where I can have some ‘me’ time. It’s been lovely catching up with everyone." Did you struggle to lose your pregnancy weight? "No, I’m actually smaller than I was to start off with. I think it’s because looking after a baby is so physically exhausting!" Jane returns to Coronation Street on Friday, March 2.
