“I have adored every minute.”
Coronation Street actor Daniel Brocklebank has confirmed that he is leaving the ITV soap.
The actor, who plays local vicar Billy Mayhew and the adoptive father of Summer Spellman (Harriet Bibby), has been a staple on the show for the past 11 years.
His character will leave the cobbles next year as part of a major new storyline that’s yet to be disclosed, according to The Sun.
Discussing his departure, Brocklebank said: “I have been working on Corrie for a quarter of my life.
“I have adored every minute I have been in that building and have never not looked forward to going into work.
“I love everyone who works on this show and whilst I am sad to be going, I am equally excited to see what the future holds.”
Last year, viewers watched Billy battle with grief following the death of his beloved partner Paul (Peter Ash), who had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
While he appeared to have turned a corner in recent months, he’s now set to be written out of the soap.
Coronation Street producer Kate Brooks added: “Billy will be involved in a major storyline over the coming months, which will see him tested in ways he never imagined, as friendships and his faith are pushed to the limit.
“We’re incredibly sad to bid farewell to Dan, who has been fantastic in some of Corrie’s biggest storylines over the past few years, most notably Paul’s MND. An actor of immeasurable talent and skill, and an absolute treasure behind the scenes – he will be missed by all of us on the cobbles.”