Coronation Street star Faye Brookes has announced she is leaving the soap after four years.
The Flixton actress, who plays Kate Connor in the ITV soap, announced the shock news on Twitter on Tuesday and its set to be a blow to fans.
She tweeted: "Thanks to everyone for your amazing support, but after 4 fabulous years in Weatherfield it's time for me to explore new opportunities, I've loved playing Kate Connor, but she needs a break for a little while and so with a song in my heart I'm off to pastures new. #corrie."
Brookes has played a major part in the soap in the last couple of months after her on-screen fiancée was killed off in the devastating Underworld factory roof collapse.
Many fans have already flooded the post with good luck messages and are full of praise for the departing star.
One wrote: "So heartbroken but I wish you all the luck in the world."
Another commented: "Omg no your not being serious I’m never watching it again."
A third said: "Good luck with your next venture absolutely gutted your leaving."
She is the second actor to announce their Weatherfield departure in the last week after Tristan Gemmill, who played Tracy Barlow's former husband Robert Preston, announced his plans to quit on Friday, April 26.
It also follows Kym Marsh's announcement in February that she will leave the role of Michelle Connor after 13 years.
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