Katherine Kelly to leave Corrie?

Katherine Kelly is reportedly set to leave 'Coronation Street' at the end of the year.

The 31-year-old actress - who plays bolshie Becky McDonald in the ITV1 soap - is said to be considering quitting her role on the cobbles to pursue new challenges when her current contract comes to an end in October.

An insider told Soaplife magazine: "It came as a huge blow to everyone but they understand her decision. Becky is one of the soap's most popular characters and she and Steve (Simon Gregson) have become one of soap's favourite couples.

"It was a really hard decision as Katherine adores 'Corrie'."

However, a spokesperson for the soap has played down the rumours, saying confirming or denying the star's departure would be "premature" before her contract comes to an end.

The spokesperson said: "Katherine Kelly is committed to 'Coronation Street' to the end of 2011. It would be premature to discuss the departure of any actor when they still have nearly a year to go on their contract."