'Harold Bishop' quits 'Neighbours'

Veteran Neighbours star Ian Smith has quit the Australian soap after 20 years.

The actor has played coffee-shop owner Harold Bishop on and off since 1997 but is now retiring from his 30-year showbiz career.

He will film his final scenes this month but has agreed to return for a number of special appearances next year.

Smith, who was also an actor and scriptwriter on Prisoner, originally left Neighbours in 1991. He returned five years later when his character was seen suffering from amnesia.

One Neighbours insider called him "the heart and soul" of the programme, saying: "Ian really set the tone of the show, both on the set and behind the scenes."

They added: "As well as being a consummate professional, he's all about creating a positive vibe that brings the cast together. He will be very missed but at least he'll be back to say 'hi' next year."

Smith's exit is a further blow for the soap, which has failed to attract more viewers despite a much-hyped re-launch earlier this year.