'Enders' Louisa Lytton leaves the Square

Louisa Lytton will leave the cast of EastEnders in November, after just over a year in her role.

The decision behind Lytton's departure from the show was a mutual one between herself and the producers when it became clear that there was nowhere for her character, Ruby Allen, to develop after Billy Murray ceased to play her character's father earlier this year.

A source from the soap explained: "The way the storylines pan out means there's not really much scope for Louisa's character any more."

Lytton, 17, joined the show last May and has since been a part of such storylines as the return of the Mitchell brothers, the arrest of her father, gangster Johnny, and her relationship with Juley.

The actress said of her stint on the show: "I've really enjoyed my time at EastEnders. It's been a great experience which I will never forget but I am now looking forward to trying new things."

Executive producer Kate Harwood explained: "Louisa has been a popular cast member at EastEnders, winning a soap award as sexiest female and a legion of fans. We are currently planning a dramatic exit for her character and we wish her the best of luck for the future."