It’s official: Emmerdale’s Natalie Anderson has decided to quit the soap and her role as Alicia Metcalfe.

Natalie explained her decision in a statement, saying: “I’ve had the most incredible 5 years at Emmerdale and made some wonderful friends.”

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Natalie has played Alicia Metcalfe for five years (ITV/PA)

“I’m so grateful to the writers, directors, producers and everyone I’ve worked with.”

“This year has been such a highlight and so amazing that I felt now was the right time to say bye to Alicia and see what the future holds.”

Natalie also thanked her fans on Twitter.

One of her most recent storylines saw her character, Alicia, being assaulted by teen Lachlan White (Thomas Atkinson) and her struggle to deal with the aftermath of the incident.

Alicia’s due to jet off to Portugal for a “fresh start” but we’ll have to wait and see just what the trip holds for her.