Coronation Street star Michael Le Vell yesterday revealed to his family his relief at being cleared of child rape allegations.
The actor, who is holidaying abroad over the New Year, called home to share his joy with his closest friends and family.
Last night, his brother-in-law Ian Westcott said: "He's very happy. The family are too. He's doing OK."
The actor joined Manchester-based soap Coronation Street 27 years ago and plays Kevin Webster. He was arrested in Manchester in September of last year but was released on bail and has denied the accusations ever since.
The star had an agonising wait over Christmas to hear if he would be prosecuted over claims he raped a schoolgirl years ago.
A source close to the soap told the Daily Mirror: "Everyone is over the moon for Michael. He's a popular bloke here and no one liked seeing him so miserable.
"It's great that he can now put all this behind him and get on with his life."
Officials from the Crown Prosecution Service said that charges were dropped due to 'insufficient evidence'.
Co-star Kym Marsh, who plays Michelle Connor in the soap, has since expressed her delight. She tweeted: "Fantastic news about Michael Le Vell having all charges dropped! I hope they make as much of this news as they did about condemning him."
CELEB REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2011: