Callard "agonised" over Corrie exit

Beverley Callard has admitted that she "agonised" over her decision to quit Coronation Street.

The actress, who plays Rovers Return landlady Liz McDonald, announced that she was leaving the ITV soap in October.

Speaking on Lorraine, Callard told guest-host Fiona Phillips: "Well, as you know I've just got married a few weeks ago and I agonised about it long and hard, because in this business it is difficult to get a regular paycheque."

"I love [Corrie] and I will always be loyal to it," she said. "I just needed to have a break from that relentless schedule, really. I want to spend a bit more time with John and a bit more time babysitting my grandsons and everything.

Callard, who recently revealed that her exit plot will be "massive", added: "I go back in the New Year to film my exit. I can't tell you what it is - I'm not allowed! It's really exciting.

"I want everyone to miss me. I'm not saying I'll never play Liz again... I don't think they are going to kill her!"

> Beverley Callard reveals post-Corrie plans