Former Coronation Street icon Martin Hancock has landed a fresh role in the BBC’s Casualty, stepping away from the cobbles. Martin, who featured in the beloved soap Corrie sporadically over 26 years, is best known for his portrayal of eco-warrior Spider Nugent.

Moving from his role in the long-running soap, the actor steps into the shoes of Samuel Jankowski on Casualty.

In his new Casualty role, Martin will a relative of the troubled student paramedic Indie Jankowski. Recently bereaved Indie has been dealing with the emotional fallout of her grandmother’s death.

The loss of her nan has led to Indie facing homelessness, resorting to sleeping at friends’ places and even in an ambulance while off-duty due to lack of permanent housing.

Martin’s return to screen follows a two-year absence since Spider’s exit from Weatherfield, where he left behind his on-and-off love interest Toyah Battersby, played by Georgia Taylor. Spider’s departure from the long-running soap came after Toyah gave him an ultimatum to quit his covert police work or end their romance, reports the Mirror.

Faced with this tough choice, Spider chose his career over love, thus turning his back on both Toyah and the cobblestone streets.

Reflecting on his final storyline with the Manchester Evening News, Martin said: “Life’s gone wrong between them. It’s just bad luck and circumstance. What’s happened in Spider’s life and what’s happened in Toyah’s life have worked against them in the end, and it’s sad. They’re both very committed people, but for now, it’s not workable.”

Hinting that his character’s story isn’t over, he said: “I don’t think it’s the end. I don’t think it’s the end of the story. These two will always have a bit of love there… I think he’ll be desperately sad about the way things have ended.”

Martin’s character had initially waved goodbye to the cobbles of Corrie back in 2000 and briefly popped back the following year to seek assistance from his aunt for a London juice bar venture. By 2003, Spider successfully convinced Toyah to join him in the capital.

While Spider captivated viewers with his distinctive perspective, vibrant fashion choices, and staunch eco-warrior views – a stance shared by actor Martin, the actor’s original exit shocked fans. But Martin thought Spider’s storyline had reached its natural conclusion. Discussing his challenging decision at the time said he thought the character had become “too normal”.

During his stint on Coronation Street in late 90s, Martin experienced personal loss with the death of his mother, Vi.

Martin discussed the pride his mother felt over his role in Corrie. He said: “I was heartbroken – it was horrible. My mum was my soundboard for everything. We were best mates and had no unfinished business. She was so proud of me when I got Corrie – she couldn’t believe it.”

As well as Coronation Street, Martin also made a name for himself in Hollywood. After leaving Corrie, he secured roles in major films such as Steve Coogan’s 24 Hour Party People and Ridley Scott’s Kingdom Of Heaven.

Martin continued to distance himself from his soap persona when he starred alongside Daniel Craig in Defiance in 2008. He had previously appeared in Casualty, making this upcoming role a return to the show.