Coronation Street bosses have cast former Emmerdale star Claire King as a feisty barmaid called Erika. According to reports this morning, the actress is set to ruffle a few feathers when she hits the cobbles this Christmas. In fact, she is going to do more than that when she embarks on a fling with Nick Tilsley. Erika, who will be introduced as an old friend of Liz McDonald, will only appear for a few weeks in December before she jets off to Spain at the end of the year. Claire's character Erika will have a fling with Nick during her time on the street. Speaking about the role, Claire (51) said: “I am beyond thrilled to be joining the cast of Coronation Street playing the funny and feisty Erika, who looks certain to ruffle a few feathers once her high heels hit those world famous cobbles.” She added: “A stint in Corrie is one of those ticks on most actor’s bucket list of jobs you dream of doing, so I can’t wait to start filming in a few weeks time.” Producer Stuart Blackburn echoed her excitement. He said: "Erika is a woman who lives life to the full. Nick doesn't stand a chance once she has set her sights on him, but he's not complaining! “We are delighted to have Claire on board to play Erika, she is a fabulous actress who will be a great addition to the cast."