Long-standing Emmerdale actress Deena Payne is to take a year's break from the ITV soap, it has been confirmed.
The 53-year-old – who plays Viv Hope in the countryside drama – reportedly called an urgent meeting with Exectuive Producer Kathleen Beedles, where she revealed that she needed a rest from the hectic filming schedule.
During her 12-month break, due to begin next summer, Deena plans to spend more time with her family as well as focusing on her charity work. She will, however, return to the soap in 2009.
The actress told the Daily Star: "After 16 years enjoying the part of Viv, I feel ready to take a break to spend some time with my family and be a supportive mother through my son's GCSE year.
"A change is as good as a rest and I'm also looking forward to 'Dancing around the World and Back' as I am a patron of this charity, and then returning to Emmerdale with renewed vigour."
A spokeswoman for the soap added: "Deena's decision to take a break will not affect her on-screen husband Tony Audenshaw, who is contracted for next year."
The news comes within months of Deena's on-screen daughter Adele Silva – who plays Kelly Windosr – announcing a similar 'interlude'.
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