In recent months we’ve bid farewell to Rachael Gill-Davis, who played Gail Loman.

Another departee was Paula Lane’s Ella Forster, who left the Dales in the back of a police car after just fifteen months onscreen.

There was also the much anticipated return of Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) who came back to the village following a prison stint and is now warring with his evil brother John (Oliver Farnworth).

Bernice Blackstock is reportedly returning to Emmerdale, two years on from her departure.

Samantha Giles has played Bernice on and off from 1998. The character is the biological mother of Gabby Thomas (Rosie Bentham), and was often involved in light-hearted storylines to contrast the ongoing drama in the village.

19-year old Gabrielle Dowling has also left the soap – but she will be back.

Recent storylines have included Cathy coming to terms with a PMDD diagnosis, and also dealing with the horrific death of twin brother Heath, played by Gabrielle’s brother Sebastian, who passed away following a car accident.

Metro understands that the star is just taking a short break, and will return down the line.

When is Cathy Hope returning to Emmerdale? Currently unknown.

EMMERDALE CAST DEPARTURES
John Sugden

We’ve known it was on the cards, but it’s now being reported that John’s departure is fast approaching.

Given the recent grizzly shooting of Mackenzie Boyd (Lawrence Robb) with a crossbow – something which triggered complaints with Ofcom – it surely can’t be long before he’s found out.

‘It’s the beginning of the end for John. He’s got away with so much but he’s about to make a fatal mistake that sees him exposed for what he is.’

A source added to The Sun: ‘Obviously Oliver knew that a character like John had a shelf life and that’s rapidly approaching.

‘He’s loved his time on the show but there’s still plenty of twists and turns coming before he departs for good.’

When is John Sugden leaving Emmerdale? Currently unknown.

The actor, best known to soap fans as evil paedophile Tony King, will become a permanent fixture in the Yorkshire Dales from September.

Emmerdale boss Laura Shaw said: ‘We are delighted that someone of Chris’ calibre has joined our cast. I think the viewers will be intrigued to see how the character of Kev will cause shockwaves this autumn.

‘Kev has a strong connection to one of our characters and it’s safe to say his arrival is going to be a massive surprise that will have major repercussions for some of our villagers.’