After a shocking and upsetting trial, actor Michael Le Vell has been found not guilty on twelve charges relating to sexual offences against a child.

The 48-year-old actor, who plays Kevin Webster in hit television soap Coronation Street, had been accused of a string of sexual offences against a young girl.

This afternoon, Le Vell was cleared on all counts.

According to Judith Moritz, a BBC reporter who was present in court, Le Vell “nodded to the jury and mouthed "thank you"”. She added “five of Michael Le Vell's relatives held hands as the verdicts came in” and they “gasped” as the jury foreman spoke.

Le Vell's family said "get him out of here" as he was acquitted.

A spokeswoman for Coronation Street said: "We are looking forward to meeting with Michael to discuss his return to the programme."

"A big weight off everyone's shoulders" said Michael, ""I'd like to thank ITV for their continued support throughout this traumatic time for all of us."

The actor's accuser was not in court to hear the verdict being read.

More information to follow.