Michael Le Vell (Pic:DailyMirror)

CORRIE star Michael Le Vell has asked for time away from the set as he fights allegations that he raped a schoolgirl.

The actor, 46, is reeling from the girl's claims and his arrest – and has vowed to prove his innocence.

He has been on holiday and was due to return on Monday, but asked soap bosses to extend his break by at least another seven days.

Filming has had to be rejigged, including a scene in which his character, mechanic Kevin Webster, fights to have his love child's name changed to his own.

His accuser reportedly alleges he assaulted her when she was six.

Fellow Corrie star Sally Dynevor yesterday backed Le Vell – who plays her on-screen husband – in his battle to clear his name.

Sally, 48, said: "Michael strenuously denies the accusation against him and I'm backing him 100%."

Speaking on ITV1's Alan Titchmarsh Show, she added: "I have known Michael for 25 years and I am right behind him." The actress is the first Corrie cast member to speak publicly in support of him.

But several colleagues called to offer backing after his arrest, which shocked cast and crew members.

A show insider said: "It's understandable Michael wants extra time off. Everyone just hopes this can all be resolved quickly."

Le Vell was held at his £750,000 home in Greater Manchester under his real name Michael Turner and quizzed for almost eight hours. The arrest was made at 8am on Friday last week – the day after the girl lodged her complaint.

Greater Manchester Police said: "A man of 46 from Hale was arrested on suspicion of a historic sexual offence and bailed until November 16, pending further inquiries."

A condition of bail is that he does not approach his accuser. Le Vell said in a statement afterwards: "I strenuously deny these allegations and will do everything in my power to prove my innocence."

The father-of-two, married to actress Janette Beverley, has been on the ITV1 soap since 1983.