Coronation Street sparks backlash as furious fans spot huge Debbie Webster 'mistake'

fans have called out soap bosses over their decision to kill off Debbie Webster (played by Sue Devaney). After displaying worrying signs such as memory lapses and work mistakes, Debbie underwent tests for dementia. Matters worsened when she began experiencing blackouts, one of which led to a fall. In a heartbreaking twist, Debbie's neurologist explained that there was no medication to treat the illness, meaning she will eventually die from the disease.

Following her shocking diagnosis - a secret she has confided only in her half-brother Carl (Jonathan Howard) - Debbie ended her engagement with Ronnie Bailey (Vinta Morgan), not wanting him to become her carer. During Wednesday's instalment (May 14) of the ITV soap, Debbie headed to lunch with Abi (Sally Carman), but began drinking after she saw Ronnie walk in.

Later, Debbie broke down, admitting to Abi that wanted to continue drinking as she wanted to forget. But she quickly realised the gravity of what she's saying.

But just as Debbie prepared to confess all to Abi, Carl walked in and she failed to tell the truth about her diagnosis. Fans flocked to social media to praise the scenes as well as Sue's acting, and fumed over producers' decision to axe the character.

"Tonight's episode makes me realise just how much of a mistake they are making getting rid of Debbie," fumed one viewer.

A second agreed: "We should be having years more of Queen Debbie. That said, I know she'll do this storyline justice."

Echoing this, another shared: "I think it's a shame that has gone right down the tubes. Getting rid of classic characters like Debbie Webster and introducing that Mick and Kit is just terrible."

A fourth chimed in: "Sue Devaney as Debbie is going out with a bang. But absolute madness for the producers to be getting rid of her."

Another declared: "Big mistake getting rid of Debbie, she is absolutely hilarious, laughed so much tonight." Someone else fumed: "Seeing drunk Debbie is still making me annoyed are getting rid of her."

Explaining why Debbie is keeping her diagnosis a secret, Sue said: "My mum did the same when my dad had cancer. She downplayed it to protect us. I think Debbie is in denial and wants to pretend everything is alright until it's not. She's a protector of her family, even though she doesn't have children. She doesn't want to worry them.

"It's like her world is being exploded. Also, people will treat you differently. She wants people to see her as the Debbie they know, the one who is in control and running a business. She doesn't want them to see her as someone else."