A former Coronation Street employee has detailed what really happens behind the scenes on the long-running ITV soap. Birmingham native Declan Kincaid, 32, has worked on numerous shows, including Casualty and This Morning, both in front of and behind the camera. He is currently working as a supporting artist on the BBC's long-running crime drama Silent Witness, but previously worked behind the scenes on Coronation Street as a Third AD (Assistant Director).

Getting a job on the show had been a long-term ambition of his, and speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, he detailed how it came about and what life is really like working on the famous cobbles. "I was very addicted to the Richard Hillman storyline - that was what got my attention in terms of wondering if I could work in TV. And so I think that was what the ambition was for me, and Coronation Street was the one I wanted to work on.

"And it was a long while before I got there. I won't lie, there was a very big break before I got in. It's a very closed, tight community. I was unsuccessful many times...But I eventually got there.

"It was slightly quiet when I was there because they'd just finished the Pat Phelan storyline, so they'd completed their big storyline [at that time], and it takes time to create new storylines.

"But it was a great experience working as a third ad, great working on a show that I love, because I know the ins and outs due to watching the show.

"Sometimes I have worked on shows that I'm just doing because it's a job, and I've got no interest in the show, but Coronation Street was different because I enjoyed the work and the show.

Giving insight into the vibe on set, he said: "Coronation Street, there was a great team, great atmosphere...and it was also a step up from what I was doing. [Prior to that] I'd only gained some minor experience as a third AD. So it was great to get that experience as third ad on such a recognisable TV show."

Given the nature of his employment, it is unsurprising that he admits people ask him to procure souvenirs.

"There are a lot of people who do want autographs. I do try to help people. I do try to pull strings. But it's not my place to get too involved. I'm there to do a job," he said.

He continued: "I have to be professional as well. But you know, if by chance I can help a friend, I'll always try to do that in terms of getting an autograph. But in terms of people on the street who might be hanging around at the edge of a set, I have to remain professional at all times, obviously."