who sat in the snug in coronation street
List of original Coronation Street characters The biggest change to hit the cast occurred in 1964 when Tim Aspinall, a young man bursting with ideas,[citation needed] was named as the new producer. Within days, he had axed several fan favourites including Frank Barlow, Harry and Concepta Hewitt, and most controversially, Martha Longhurst. It was later reported that ITV bosses had stepped in to save Albert Tatlock, Ken and Valerie Barlow, and Lucille Hewitt from the chop. Martha was a particular favourite with viewers,[citation needed] who enjoyed her friendship with Ena Sharples and Minnie Caldwell, due to their many scenes sat in the snug of the Rovers Return gossiping about the locals. Martha's death caused outrage with the public and the cast, so much so that actress Violet Carson, who played Ena, almost refused to take part in Martha's final scene.