Hollyoaks: Gemma Merna to leave Carmel McQueen role

Hollyoaks star Gemma Merna has announced that she is leaving the show.

The actress will bow out on screen in an upcoming storyline after eight years in the role of Carmel McQueen.

Merna told the Daily Star Sunday : "I've had a great time being part of the show for eight years and I'm excited to push myself and explore new avenues.

"I've got an exciting business launch for later in the year that I'm working on. I also have some great storylines before I go."

Hollyoaks' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood added: "The role of Carmel was never in our plan until Gemma Merna tottered into the audition room with a gold lamé handkerchief and thigh-high boots.

"I'd like to thank her for being a valued company member and for creating one of our most lovable characters."

Carmel has been part of the Channel 4 show since 2006 and has been at the centre of both comedy and drama in the village.

The bubbly blonde's major storylines have included her devastation after her husband Calvin was shot dead on their second wedding day in 2010. She later received another terrible shock when she discovered that her own cousin Theresa was the killer.

More recently, Carmel has suffered further tragedy after her partner Jim McGinn was murdered by gangster Fraser Black, although she has since found happiness in a new romance with Calvin's brother Sonny.

While Carmel will be leaving the show, Hollyoaks bosses have already announced plans to bring in two new McQueens - Myra's nieces - to inject new life into the popular family.