Claire Sweeney breaks silence on Ricky Hatton split as boxer 'plans to leave UK'

Claire Sweeney has spoken out on her split from boxing legend Ricky Hatton. The 53 year old Coronation Street actress found love with Ricky on last year's Dancing on Ice.

But it was revealed today that the pair had called it quits after eight months together. Claire confirmed their separation today.

Speaking to The Sun at The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical's opening night in London's West End, Claire said she is doing "great" post-split. She added: "We're still friends.

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"We were friends, we dated then we're friends again. It's all good." Claire was accompanied to the West End musical by her son Jaxon.

A source told the Daily Mail that their contrasting lifestyles led to the break-up. They said: "While Claire is one of the biggest stars on Coronation Street and is very career-gliding, Ricky's more freewheeling and unpredictable."

The insider also mentioned that Ricky is planning a move to Tenerife "where he feels more at home".

Clair and Ricky's romance blossomed this year on Dancing on Ice, but they had been platonic pals for over two decades. Claire reportedly felt like she'd "felt like she'd won the lottery" after starting to date the ex boxer.

The split between Claire and Ricky was confirmed today, with an insider revealing to the DailyMail: "Claire and Ricky remain good friends, there has been no fallout between them. They decided they're better off as pals and are no longer romantically together."

Meanwhile, Claire is concentrating on her career and receiving support from her celebrity friends and Coronation Street co-stars.