Coronation Street star Tina O'Brien and television boyfriend Ryan Thomas are expecting their first child, it has been revealed.

The sexy soap star, who left the ITV show in December, is reportedly 12 weeks pregnant.

The pregnancy was unexpected but the couple are said to be "thrilled and excited" at the prospect of starting a family.

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Sexy Corontion Street star Tina O'Brien, pictured at last year's National Television Awards, is expecting her first child

She had previously admitted her role as Corrie mum Sarah-Louise Platt had made her broody and that she was looking forward to having a family.

She said: "It makes me broody. One day I'd love to have a family."

The 24-year-old had planned to move to London to pursue other acting projects, while Thomas, who plays the Street's Jason Grimshaw, remained in Manchester.

But sources reveal that Tina has decided to stay in the north-west and plans to fit her acting career around motherhood.

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The couple's on-screen relationship has not always run smoothly, with Ryan's character Jason Grimshaw ditching Sarah Platt, played by Tina, at the altar

Tina has had to turn down certain jobs as they involved action shots and she was concerned about risking her pregnancy.

"It may not be the best timing in terms of her career, but she loves Ryan and they know they can make it work," a friend told the Sun.

"Tina has a flat in Manchester but has bought a big house in Cheshire as she wants a quieter home better suited to having children."

An ITV spokeswoman said: "Ryan and Tina can confirm they are expecting a baby and absolutely delighted at the happy news."

The couple looked very much in love as they played around on a jetski while on holiday in Antigua in 2006