ITV's director of television Kevin Lygo has confirmed that Oliver will die on Coronation Street in the coming weeks.

The heartbreaking storyline has seen the three-year-old son of Leanne (Jane Danson) and Steve (Simon Gregson) diagnosed with mitochondrial disease, leaving him on life support with no chance of recovery.

The pair have taken the hospital to court in an attempt to keep Oliver alive, but speaking at a press Christmas event today, Lygo revealed that the youngster will lose his battle in tragic upcoming scenes.

"As ever, Christmas is always a dramatic time in Soapland and we'll have Coronation Street and Emmerdale at the centrepiece of our seasonal offerings," he said.

"On Corrie, David and Shona Platt look back to put the troubles of the past behind them and vow to get their marriage back on track.

"After Oliver's death, Leanne's grief is heightened as she watches Nick play happy families with his new-found son.

"And Todd Grimshaw is determined to win back his ex, Billy, and plots to break up Paul and Billy."

Corrie will celebrate its historic 60th anniversary with a week of special episodes next month.