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Coronation Street star Sue Cleaver has revealed the real reason behind her move away from the soap after a 25-year stint.

Having spent over two decades in Weatherfield, Sue announced earlier this year that she would be leaving the show behind, as she looks to pastures new.

While many soap fans will remember her infamous brawls with Gail Platt, played by Helen Worth, others will recall her close shave with death after crossing paths with her villainous ex, Pat Phelan, played by Connor McIntyre.

However, during a recent episode of the Three People with Rebecca Front podcast, the soap icon opened up on her change in perspective, explaining: "It's allowed me to make massive changes in my life, in all areas. Down to my decision to leave Corrie, I was there for, I think, over 25 years. I only said I'd go for a year."

Reflecting on her early years of motherhood, she explained how Corrie provided an opportunity to be closer to home and, in turn, spend more time with her son: "I had a four-year-old. So when Corrie came up, I went, oh, that's great. I can be at home for a year."

While initially only planning to give Corrie one year, her love of the show and the convenience of working near home, provided added incentive: "And then after that year, I went, 'I don't want to not be here'. And this, you know, I get to do what I love. It is a real family environment there."