Jeff Hordley quits 'Emmerdale'

Actor Jeff Hordley has confirmed he is to leave Emmerdale later this year with the door being left open for a possible return in the future.

Jeff has played ruthless hard man Cain Dingle since March 2000 and has been involved in some of the show’s biggest storylines in the past six years, including his affair with Angie Reynolds (Freya Copeland) - which resulted in her dying in his arms - discovering he was Debbie’s (Charley Webb) father; numerous scrapes with the law including a spell behind bars, and his volatile on/off relationship with Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins).

There is a dramatic time ahead for Cain as he becomes determined to seek revenge on Debbie for giving up his grand-daughter Sarah.

Of his departure, Jeff said: “I’ve had a great time on Emmerdale and feel privileged to have been given so many fantastic storylines, but after six years playing Cain I am keen to pursue other projects.”

Kathleen Beedles, Series Producer added: “Jeff is an extremely talented actor and a well respected member of the cast and we are very sorry to see him go. We wish him the best of luck for the future.”

Cain Dingle will remain on-screen until autumn 2006.