'Enders couple Waterman, Groves split

Former EastEnders stars Hannah Waterman and Ricky Groves have split after three years of marriage.

The pair, who played Walford's Laura Beale and Garry Hobbs respectively, are believed to have broken up on New Year's Day, prompting Waterman to move out of the home they shared near Huntingdon, Cambs.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the couple said: "Ricky Groves and Hannah Waterman have announced today that after much consideration they have decided to formally separate. Both their careers have been hugely successful, but for most of last year their work has kept them apart."

Waterman added: "We would like to remain friends with respect for each other."

According to a report in The Sun today, the decision to separate was made by Waterman, who has recently hit the headlines for dropping from a size 16 to size 6 after undertaking a diet and exercise regime.

A source commented: "It seems Ricky no longer fits into her life. She's enjoying looking sexy and wants to enjoy life as a single woman. Poor Ricky's absolutely gutted."