Suranne Jones won the best actress prize at the British Soap Awards

The actress says she will explore other roles with Granada, which produces Coronation Street.

Jones, 25, who won the best actress award at the British Soap Awards last weekend, had been planning to leave the cast next year.

Her departure comes shortly after cast member Bruno Langley, who plays teenager Todd Grimshaw, also quit.

Possible return

Suranne Jones, who has been playing factory worker Karen McDonald for four years, will leave after her contract ends in November, but has not ruled out a return to the Street.

She will stay on screen until December for the climax of one of the 43-year-old soap's most gripping storylines.

Viewers have seen her character Karen struggling with the fact that husband Steve slept with and fathered the child of Tracy Barlow, played by Kate Ford.

Jones said it was the "right time" to move on.

"I adore playing Karen McDonald and love working with Simon Gregson," she said.

I just think the time is right for me to move on and explore other acting opportunities, whilst leaving the door open for Karen to return Suranne Jones

"If it wasn't for the Corrie writers and Simon I wouldn't be where I am today and for that I'll always be grateful."

"But I just think the time is right for me to move on and explore other acting opportunities, whilst leaving the door open for Karen to return."

Long-term planning

It is understood that the decision was taken on Thursday following the soap's long term planning conference with producers and writers.

"I know Granada believe this is the best way forward as it gives the writers at Coronation Street the chance to write a terrific exit storyline for my character," said Jones, who is already reading new scripts.