Festive celebration of Corrie fans at The Coronation Street Experience
Coronation Street's Sue Cleaver has expressed her 'devastation' with Helen Worth's departure from the soap as Gail Platt after an incredible 50 years.
Having portrayed the beloved Gail since 1974, at age 73, Worth's forthcoming exit is set against "a major storyline for the Platt family".
Appearing on Loose Women this Friday (December 20), Sue voiced her sorrow over Helen's leaving and praised her long-time colleague.
"Helen leaving, I can't tell you it's really awful, it's really sad. We are all devastated. I mean she has deserved it, I mean 50 years is extraordinary isn't it.
"One think I tell you is, she is the most generous, empathetic, humble human being you will ever meet, and everybody loves her."
Also hailing from Weatherfield as Eileen Grimshaw since 2000, Sue went on: "If you speak to Jack Shepherd and Tina O'Brien who play her kids in the show, they will say she has been a mentor."
Talking of Helens influence she said: "She has taught them everything they know, from how you behave on the set, etiquette.
"She is just the most generous soul and we are going to miss her so much. There is going to be a massive Helen hole."
An unforgettable Christmas Day episode is in store for Coronation Street fans as Gail bids farewell to the cobbles.
While certain aspects of the episode are shrouded in secrecy, it's yet to be revealed if a happy ending is on the cards.
The holiday special is rumoured to centre around the Platts, as she grapples with doubts about her impending nuptials to Jesse Chadwick, played by John Thomson.
So how will Gail Platt's story end after five decades on the cobbles on Christmas Day?
Coronation Street airs three nights a week on ITV and ITVX.
