Daniel Brocklebank announces Coronation Street exit

Daniel Brocklebank is to leave Coronation Street after 11 years in the role of Billy Mayhew, it has been announced.

The character – the Street’s resident vicar – made his debut in December 2014 and has been part of a string of hard-hitting storylines, including sexuality in religion and the death of his partner Paul (Peter Ash) from Motor Neurone Disease.

According to The Sun, Billy will depart the cobbles in 2026 as part of an “issues-based” plotline.

In a statement, 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.”

Corrie 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.”

Brocklebank’s departure is just the latest in a host of recent or upcoming exits from the soap, a list which includes Gail (Helen Worth), Eileen (Sue Cleaver), Craig (Colson Smith), Daisy (Charlotte Jordan), Debbie (Sue Devaney), Yasmeen (Shelley King) and Aadi (Adam Hussain).