Coronation Street viewers have showered praise on Craig Tinker after he showed selfless support to grooming victim Bethany Platt.

The ITV soap’s young character, played by Colson Smith, told teenager Bethany (Lucy Fallon) in Wednesday night’s show that she was “amazing,” adding: “You are the strongest person I know.”

He comforted his friend moments after she told her mother, Sarah (Tina O’Brien), that she had been left “broken” by the ordeal at the hands of her abusive ex-boyfriend Nathan (Chris Harper).

Fans who have followed the harrowing storyline highlighted the importance of Craig’s kindness.

Previously, Bethany confided in Craig that she had been forced to sleep with Nathan’s friend and police officer, Neil.

Craig, who works under Neil in the force, will continue his attempt to expose his superior’s crimes when the programme continues to ITV at 7.30pm on Friday.