UK soap star Stephanie Beacham 'confronted by hammer-wielding burglar' at home

Coronation Street star Stephanie Beacham was confronted by a hammer-wielding burglar during a raid at her London home, a court heard.

The soap star, 75, was reportedly present at her home in Bayswater, West London, when she allegedly came face-to-face with the intruder on September 25 last year.

Stephanie is said to have had several items stolen from her during the home invasion, including a chequebook, jewellery, keys, a purse and a mobile phone, Southwark crown court heard.

56-year-old David Wilson was charged with aggravated burglary and robbery at the actress' home. He is due to face trial later this year.

His charge states he entered the star's home 'as a trespasser' to steal her personal possessions.

It also states "at the time of the commission of the burglary", he had "a weapon of offence, namely a hammer”.

Prosecutor Gregor McKinley called Beacham an "elderly victim" and urged the judge to set a trial date for February.

Judge Nicholas Rimmer remanded Wilson in custody until his trial. A further pre-trial hearing is set for February 1.