Phil’s new streetlife

From a debut in the BBC’s Desperados, he’s now the new disabled kid on the block in Weatherfield. And for once he’s the real deal. Coronation Street’s Richard Sargent, who plays Ryan’s schoolmate Phil, talks to us about being first in the queue, and how The Wrong Trousers would be right for him.

What do you think is the best thing about being disabled?

Being able to jump the queue, not only at the school canteen, but at the Empire State Building in New York, instead of waiting for two hours to get in like everyone else.

What makes you angry?

People expecting me to be different, when I am not.

What’s the funniest thing anyone’s ever said to you about your impairment?

There are many things that have been said, but the most common one is when people say, ‘Come on, let’s go for a walk.’ When they realise what they have said, they are left embarrassed and try backtracking, while I am trying to stifle a laugh at the pickle they have got themselves in.

How do you deal with people who barf on about your impairment? Have you any good put downs?

I am very down to earth. I just don’t hear these comments.

What’s the one thing that could be invented to make your life as a disabled person better?

If Wallace and Gromit’s wrong trousers were invented in real life.

What do you most like about the character you play?

He does not want to be treated differently.
 
And what do you not like about him?

Nothing at the moment.

Who’s your favourite disabled person ever?

Ian Brown, my national league wheelchair basketball coach, and Ade Adepitan, the actor and presenter.

Do you have any special or hidden talent apart from acting?

I play wheelchair basketball at national, county and junior league level.