Colson Smith reveals hardest thing about being axed from Coronation Street

Sue Devaney as Debbie Webster

Fans have been left distraught at news of Debbie's upcoming departure, with the character being written out as part of a storyline focusing on dementia.

A source told Metro: 'It’s one of the show’s biggest storylines of the year, and a real chance for Sue to finally get her time in the spotlight – it will just be devastating for fans that it will effectively be her final storyline.

‘It’s one of many major storylines new boss Kate Brooks has in the bag, and there will not be a dry eye in the house.

‘There is no doubt in the Corrie family that she will give the performance of a lifetime and make Debbie’s exit one to remember for years.’

Sue Cleaver as Eileen Grimshaw

Loose Women and I'm A Celebrity star Sue has been central to the show for two and a half decades but now she will be saying goodbye.

She confirmed: ‘I’ve had 25 privileged years of working on Coronation Street.’

‘The door is still firmly open, but as I reached my 60th year, I decided it was time to embrace change, look for new adventures, and live fearlessly.'

Colson Smith as Craig Tinker

After 14 years, Corrie has decided to also write out police officer Craig, with the actor sharing his love for the show on social media following the decision, delivered to him last year.

He said: 'I've loved every single second of my 14-year stay as a resident on the greatest street in the world. I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street.

'I've learnt pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home. I'm excited to play out the exit story for our Craigy. For me, this is just the end of the beginning.

'I genuinely can't wait to see what chapter 2 has in store for me. Long live the cobbles!'

Charlotte Jordan as Daisy Midgeley

After a very busy four years on the show, Daisy is set to leave as part of a currently to-secret explosive storyline, with Charlotte keen to try other projects.

She said in a statement: 'My time at Coronation Street is something I’ll always cherish.

'After a brilliant four years for Daisy, it’s time for me to start a new chapter and explore other opportunities.

'It’s been a privilege to be part of a wonderful institution with even more wonderful colleagues who have taught me so much.

'After a brilliant four years for Daisy it’s time for me to start a new chapter and explore other opportunities.'

Helen Worth as Gail Platt

Fans were left reeling when Helen announced her retirement after half a century, with Gail marrying Jesse Chapman (John Thomson) on Christmas Day and bidding her family farewell.

She said: 'I made the decision at the start of the year and spoke to the producers who were very kind and understanding.

'I have been truly blessed to have been given the most incredible scripts week in week out, and to have worked with fantastic actors, directors and a brilliant crew.

'The past 50 years have flown by and I don't think the fact that I am leaving has quite sunk in yet.'

Luca Toolan as Mason Radcliffe

There wasn't a dry eye in the UK in the new year when Corrie shocked fans by killing off Mason as part of a knife crime storyline.

Addressing the decision to write out the character, Luca said: 'When I first heard there was a mixture of emotions because I was sad that Mason was going to die and that means I would be leaving, but equally I was really excited and honoured to be part of this storyline because it’s an incredibly important issue that needs to be tackled.

'I feel so privileged to have had this opportunity to start my professional career at Coronation Street and what a great time I’ve had.'