Television viewers gripped by the dramatic tram crash in Coronation Street should brace themselves for another shock.

The devastating scenes - part of a week of special episodes to mark the show's 50th anniversary - were brought to life by a Jewish mastermind.

Will Cohen, executive producer at The Mill, one of the world's largest special effects companies, was hired by ITV to create the most dramatic scenes in the show's history.

Mr Cohen and his team created 18 shots for the storyline, including the initial explosion in the Street's wine bar which led to the tram plunging from the viaduct.

The aftermath of the accident has been revealed night by night witha special live episode last night.

Mr Cohen said: "They asked us up to Manchester in June and they were very secretive. I was wondering why they would need effects in Coronation Street.

"It was a lot of fun to be involved in. I watch Corrie and I never imagined I'd be there working on it."

The confines of the set, in Manchester city centre, added to the difficulties of making the crash appear as realistic as possible.

Mr Cohen said: "It was a real headache for the producers to get 80-foot high cranes into the street. But it was thrilling to set it in the context of a massive aerial shot and show parts of Weatherfield that people have never seen before. We based a lot of the area on Salford and the terraced houses and backstreets."

Mr Cohen said: "I'm really proud. I think it's derogatory to call it a soap. These episodes are as high-end drama as you will see. But it is still Corrie."

He added: "I've had family and friends asking me what happens, but they will have to wait to find out."