Celebrity Big Brother winner Denise Welch has revealed that she's been forced to contact the police after receiving abuse on Twitter.

The 53-year old, who confirmed her split from hubby Tim Healy earlier this week on Loose Women, has been heavily criticised on the social-networking site after reports suggested she had cheated on the actor.

One Twitter user even branded Welch a "disgusting w***e", as well as poking fun at her previous problems with drugs.

In response to the threats, Denise tweeted: "How proud your parents must be of you... Please stop being horrible to people you don't know. You'll be much happier...

"By the way, my work have reported you to the police and they've traced you. Have a good day."

The former Coronation Street actress has since told The Mirror: "It's a shame that just a few horrible and evil faceless tweeters write such vile things. I'm made of stern stuff so I will be fine."