'EastEnders' duo Jodie, Poppy to leave Walford

EastEnders double act Jodie Gold and Poppy Meadow are to bow out from the show, Digital Spy can confirm.

The ditzy pair, played by Kylie Babbington and Rachel Bright, will be seen making their departures from Walford in an episode which airs next month.

Jodie has been appearing on screen since summer 2010 and her departure comes as Babbington's contract reaches its natural conclusion.

Poppy, meanwhile, made her debut in January and viewers have since seen her appear in a handful of episodes as Jodie's best friend.

It has also been confirmed that Norman Simmonds's departure from Albert Square in this Thursday's episode will be George Layton's final scenes in the role of Pat's love interest.

An EastEnders spokesperson told Digital Spy this morning: "Since the departure of her mum and boyfriend Darren, it was felt the character of Jodie had come to a natural end and viewers will see her head off to look for Darren.

"Like Norman, Poppy had always been a supporting character, not a regular, however we may well see her return again in the future."

EastEnders continues tonight at 8pm on BBC One.

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Watch Jodie Gold's EastEnders character trail below: