Coronation Street has started filming the final scenes of evil Pat Phelan in Whitehaven.

Twisted villain Phelan, played by Connor McIntyre, and his wife Eileen, played by Sue Cleaver, have been shooting his exit on a boat in the town's harbour.

Phelan - named as Villain of the Year at the British Soap Awards in 2016 - has terrorised Weatherfield for years and been responsible for a number of deaths.

Corrie boss Kate Oates has said Phelan's downfall would come in 2018.

According to The Sun, a show source said: "The whole show has been building up to this point for some time. Phelan’s murderous ways will finally be revealed while he and Eileen are on a mini-break.

"But while they’re there the police find the bodies at his building site and Liz tells Eileen about everything.

"When they start to clash while out walking Phelan tries to go for her and she sidesteps him and throws him into the sea.

"It will stun and delight viewers. He’s finally getting his comeuppance."

Fans of the show have been speculating on Facebook about why filming is taking place in Whitehaven, with many suggesting it may be related to the Phelan story line.

Joan Telford said: "Could this be anything to do with Phelan's death?"

And Jenna Cairns said: "Think they're filming Phelan's demise."

Marie Jackson tweeted a picture of herself with the soap star.

Caravans and vans arrived in the town yesterday, taking over Wellington Pit car park, while the path towards the lighthouse was also closed.

A red van which has been used by Phelan in the show was also spotted on the harbourside.

Crowds have gathered at the harbourside to watch crews film the scenes.

The episodes are expected to air at the end of March.

Coronation Street has been running since 1960.