UFO actress Gabrielle Drake is to make a guest appearance inCoronation Street.

The 65-year-old, who played Lt. Gay Ellis in the 1970 science fiction series, is to take on the small role of Vanessa, a well-to-do, elegant lady who becomes involved with Bill Webster (Peter Armitage) at a singles night.

Realising that she is quite posh, Bill finds himself lying in the hope of impressing her and it's not long before they agree to a double date with Auntie Pam (Kate Anthony).

A source toldThe Mirror: "Gabrielle is involved in a funny storyline which sees her and her partner eyeing up Bill and Pam when they meet in a hotel."

Drake began filming at Granada Studios in Manchester today and will make her screen appearance at the beginning of June.

She previously appeared in Corrie playing the part of sexy Swede Inga Olsen in 1967.