2 September 2010 Last updated at 06:36 ET

Coronation Street to go live for 50th anniversary

Some key characters are set to be killed off when a tram crash occurs in Weatherfield

Coronation Street is to broadcast a live episode as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, soap bosses have confirmed.

The ITV1 series, which marks its half-century in December, will screen the special instalment later this year.

A spokeswoman for the soap said: "Everyone is very excited, if not to say a little nervous."

The soap previously screened a live episode for its 40th anniversary, which also featured the Prince of Wales.

The spokesperson said they felt the live show was a fitting way to "celebrate such a prestigious anniversary."

Producer Phil Collinson revealed earlier this year that key characters will be killed off in a tram crash which occurs in Weatherfield in December.

It is not clear whether the disaster will occur during the live programme.

Last month, a theatre show called Corrie! opened at The Lowry in Salford as part of the soap's 50th anniversary celebrations.

In February, EastEnders also broadcast a live episode to mark its 25th anniversary.

More than 16 million people tuned in to watch.