Hayes: Return 'felt like coming home'

Home and Away star Christie Hayes has said returning to the soap "felt like coming home".

The 22-year-old, who stars as young mother Kirsty Phillips, recently returned to the series after a three year absence.

"It felt like coming home after I had moved out already," Hayes told the Press Association. "Everything changed but was really still the same, it was refreshing and exciting."

Speaking about Kirsty's return to Summer Bay, Hayes added: "Kirsty has definitely grown up even more but her rebellious streak is still intact.

"As a mum, she has become protective of her kids around her, but is still trying to figure herself out."