Ever since we found out they were killing off Coronation Street veteran Hayley Cropper we've been pretty much dreading what we presumed would be the ultimate Christmas tearjerker. You can put down the tissues now though, because apparently that ain't gonna happen.

Julie Hesmondhalgh (the real life Hayley) took to Twitter yesterday to confirm that she'd just filmed her final scenes, and revealed that her exit will not be set during the festive season. No need to worry about mammy bawling after one sherry too many so!

Both herself and David Nielson (who plays on-screen husband Roy Cropper) have been praised for their efforts to deal with the 'right to die' storyline, and Hesmondhalgh thanked all those fans who had offered her support.

She also received a touching tribute from the cast and crew, who posted this here snap on Instagram to say goodbye and thank you to their friend and colleague.

Pass us the tissues, we're gone already...