Sapphire Elia confirms 'Emmerdale' exit

Sapphire Elia has confirmed that she will be leaving Emmerdale later this year.

Earlier today, the News of the World claimed that Mia Macey had been axed by series producer Stuart Blackburn. However, Elia has revealed that her character's departure had been mapped out for some time.

"Hey everyone, yes it is true but not as been written," Elia tweeted today. "The explosion of this summer's storyline will result in my character's departure but with the doors open for her return."

"I'll be on your screens right up until roughly October so keep peeled for more Mia!" Elia continued.

Elia's exit from Emmerdale is likely to come following the revelation of Ella Macey's affair with Mia's boyfriend Adam Barton.

"As for me, in 4 months time it's onwards and upwards," Elia added. "I'll keep you posted on what's to come."

Last month Frank Kelly, who plays Mia's grandfather Dermot Macey, announced that he had quit the soap to pursue career opportunities closer to home.

Elia joined Emmerdale in November last year as part of the Macey clan, brought in to replace the departing Wylde family as the new owners of Home Farm.