Edward Appleby was the father of Colin Appleby and father-in-law of Christine.
At one point, the Applebys lived in Mawdsley Street but by 1962 they had left the area. When Colin was killed in a car accident in October of that year, Edward saw to it that Christine was properly looked after, inviting her to live with him and his wife. However, Christine instead fled to Coronation Street to seek solace with her old neighbours.
Following Christine to find out her plans, Edward asked after her at the Rovers Return, shocking the drinkers there with the news of his son's death. He was then directed to 11 Coronation Street, where Christine had arranged to lodge with Elsie Tanner. Christine turned down her father-in-law's kind offer of a home, saying that she'd only remind him of what he'd lost and wouldn't be good company. Edward then offered her money, but Christine was eager to get working again and graciously refused his help. Satisfied that Christine would be okay, Edward set off home.
- The character was credited as "Mr Appleby". His first name was given in dialogue in Episode 197 (31st October 1962).