Peter Gunn, who plays Bessie Street headteacher Brian Packham, is to leave Coronation Street later this year after the actor was told that his current deal would not be renewed: 

“Peter will leave at the end of his current contract. The decision is purely storyline driven. Peter is a great actor who has made the character of Brian Packham a joy to watch,” a Corrie spokesperson confirmed. 

Brian, who was first seen on the show in April 2010, is currently in a relationship with Underworld machinist Julie Carp (Katy Cavanagh). The pair have been involved in a number of lighthearted plotlines, most notably when they fell victim to a UFO prank in 2011. 

However, last year the couple also suffered the ordeal of having their hopes of starting a family dashed after Julie’s ovaries were removed during emergency surgery. 

Coronation Street continues tonight at 7.30 and 8.30pm on ITV.