Corrie's Fred to quit next year?

Coronation Street star John Savident is considering quitting the show.

The actor, who plays butcher Fred Elliott, has apparently told close friends that he does not wish to sign a new contract next year.

"John is telling everyone he is becoming rather fed up," one source told The Mirror. "People think John is just like Fred in real life but they couldn't be more wrong. He is a classical actor and he says he is missing the stage and theatre terribly.

"He has been a massive hit, bringing back the humour with his repetitive phrases and clumsy philandering. The viewers love him but from the way he is talking 2006 could well be his last year with the soap."

Another insider added, "It won't be an easy decision for him because he has enjoyed himself over the years."

The rumours follow reports from last weekend that Johnny Briggs, better known as Mike Baldwin on the soap, will be leaving next year.