Coronation Street star Jennie McAlpine (pictured above) says she is in no rush to return to the cobbles following the birth of her son Albert, calling motherhood ‘the most important job you can have’. 

Speaking at an event to promote a new takeaway service at her Manchester city centre tearoom Annie’s, the actress said that becoming a mum has put life in perspective and she would wait until the summer before reprising her role as Fizz on the Street. 
 
The 30-year-old and her husband Chris Farr welcomed baby Albert into the world in November last year and have been enjoying months of well-deserved family time together. 
 
The pair, a couple for nine years, have co-owned Annie’s since 2012 and have watched the business go from strength to strength. 
 
So popular has the tearoom and restaurant become, Jennie decided to launch the coffee take-out service to meet demand from customers who enjoy purchasing from an independent, family business. 
 
She said: “Albert is a joy. I brought him into Annie’s and he’s become part of the Annie’s family. The customers are now friends and we have had so many presents, teddy bears, baby grows, it’s been lovely. 
 
“I’m still a few months off going back to Coronation Street, so I may be back by the summer. There will be something going on I’m sure, they will be planning something. I’m in the hands of the writers with whatever they do. 
 
“People always say ‘do you suggest storylines?’ but they come up with such brilliant things. As far as other jobs go – I’ve got enough on my plate without thinking of anything else!”
 
The actress and her husband, who works daily at the restaurant, are also expanding the business to incorporate an online tea shop following high demand for the homemade preserves and chutneys. 
 
Even with a young baby, Jennie shows no signs of slowing down.
 
“Motherhood puts things in perspective and I have a whole new idea and respect for mums and dads and what they do,” she added. “I have a great relationship with my dad and always knew it was an important job but when you do it yourself you really know. It’s the most important job you can have.”
 
But with so much going on at once, would she ever consider switching the cobbles for the coffee machine full-time?
 
She said: “I’m just so lucky that I don’t have to choose between the two. Coronation Street is my life, this is my hobby. Chris is here day to day and is the brains. Corrie was a dream come true to get that job.
 
“I’m actually a fan of the show so it was fab to get the part and I’ve been doing it for 14 years and I still love doing it.”