FORMER Emmerdale actress Claire King has crossed the Pennines for her latest TV role, as a man-eating cougar stalking the Weatherfield cobbles.

Claire, pictured, whose family is from Bradford, has joined Coronation Street as Erica, who has a fling with Nick Tilsley.

The actress made her debut appearance on the Street this week, playing the flamboyant friend of Liz McDonald.

“Erica’s a tough person; straight-talking, but she’s got a good sense of humour so she’s not like the other one in the Dales,” said Claire.