PRESS ASSOCIATION -- Coronation Street star Michael Le Vell has denied allegations that he abused a schoolgirl and said he will do "everything in his power" to clear his name.

The actor, who plays mechanic Kevin Webster in the popular soap, was arrested last week on suspicion of a sexual offence.

Le Vell, 46, was arrested at his Cheshire home on Friday by Greater Manchester Police before being taken to a police station, where he was held for questioning.

In a statement this morning, he said: "I strenuously deny these allegations and will do everything in my power to prove my innocence."

A spokesman for GMP said: "A 46-year-old man from Hale has been arrested on suspicion of a historic sexual offence.

"The man was arrested at an address in Hale at 8am on Friday September 30, 2011.

"He has been bailed by police until 16 November 2011, pending further inquiries.

"The report was made to police on Thursday 29 September 2011."

The star, whose real name is Michael Turner, is married to actress Janette Beverley. The couple have two children.

A spokeswoman for Coronation Street producer ITV said: "We are aware these allegations have been made. Given that a police investigation is under way, it would not be appropriate to comment further on this matter."