'Coronation Street' stars have to ask permission before getting tattoos.

Kym Marsh

Kym Marsh

Kym Marsh - who plays Michelle Connor in the soap - recently added to her collection of inkings with a new design on her back in tribute to her late grandfather, a former member of the Parachute Regiment who was a prisoner of war during World War II, but before getting it etched, she had to have the tatt approved by producers.

She said: "I saw a picture of the badge for Bellerophon and Pegasus - a hero in Greek mythology and his horse - which is the badge my grandad would have had on his uniform. I took one look at it and said, 'That's what I want as my new tattoo.'

"I've made it a variation of the military badge as I wanted to put my own stamp on it and I think it's beautiful...

"I know there are some people who will think it's awful but it's my body and I think it's a wonderful tribute to my grandad and my dad adores it.

"I had to ask permission from 'Corrie' but they were quite happy for me to have it done as my character Michelle doesn't often bare her back."

Though the 42-year-old star adores her new body art, she admitted it was a long and painful procedure.

Writing in her OK! magazine column, she added: "It took for hours to complete and talented tattooist Nathan Haworth did it.

"It did hurt, especially around my spine, but that's to be expected and I'm delighted with it.

"This tattoo and the one I have of [late son] Archie's footprints on my stomach are my two favourite inkings now."

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