[Scarlett.]

Coronation Street favourite Beverley Callard is to leave the soap next year, it has been announced.

The actress - who has played Rovers Return landlady Liz McDonald on and off since 1989 - has made the decision to bow out of her iconic role to pursue pastures new.

In a statement, Callard explained: "I've loved every minute of my second stint on the street - it's always a difficult decision to make the leap but I returned for the 40th [anniversary], so leaving for the 50th feels like perfect timing.

"I'll miss everyone on the show but I'm looking forward to some new challenges and to see what life has to offer beyond Liz's famous mini skirts!"

Meanwhile, Coronation Street's series producer Phil Collinson commented: "Bev has created an iconic and much-loved character in Liz. She will be greatly missed behind the bar of The Rovers by the viewers of the show.

"She's a lovely lady and is such a talented actress. We all wish her well in whatever she does next and we hope to see the character of Liz return sometime in the future. Plans are now being made for an exciting exit storyline for her departure next year."

Liz has become one of Coronation Street's most popular characters since her debut alongside the rest of the McDonalds in the '80s. The character has also featured in a number of high-profile storylines, including a memorable domestic violence plot featuring Liz and then-husband Jim (Charles Lawson).

In real life, Callard will soon tie the knot with partner Jon McEwan. She has also recently been appearing as a regular guest panellist on ITV1's daytime show Loose Women.

[MissKittyFantastico]

Awww I love Liz and she seems a lovely lady in RL too

I like her on Loose Women so I hope she keeps doing that.

[Visage]

Such a shame, Liz is a brilliant character and I've loved nearly all the story-lines she's been involved in.

I hope the actress goes on to do great things in TV

[Scarlett.]

I wonder if it will be a final exit for her?

[MissKittyFantastico]

I can't see them killing her off, probably leave the door open for her to come back for a guest part in a storyline at a later date, at least I hope so.

[\PJ/]

Rumours are saying she could become a perma loosewomen panelist when carol leaves next year.

[joeysteele]

Again !!!!!

[Stacey.]

Oh finally! Can't stand her!

[Callum]

Going to miss her but I hope she stays on TV

[Jords]

Shame about this, Liz is a really good light-hearted character.

[Kerry]

She's a character I grew to love. Especially with Steve and Becky alongside her. They bounce off each other.

I know she's had many personal problems. I wish her well

[Scarlett.]

with her leaving, I hope the McDonald's lose the Rovers

[Kerry]

I've forgotten how they even ended up with the Rovers....

[Scarlett.]

Steve bought it off Ashley after Fred died

[Kerry]

How come Liz is the licensee?

[Scarlett.]

Because Steve is a criminal xD

[Kerry]

What a muddle

[Scarlett.]

That's why Lloyd is the owner of Streetcars