'It’s been a privilege to be part of such an iconic show.'

EastEnders' Carmel Kazemi is set to leave Albert Square, it's been announced. The character, played by actress Bonnie Langford, will exit the soap in the autumn. Bonnie confirmed the news, saying she knew Carmel would have to take a break from Walford but that it isn't the end of the road for her. "I’ve had a wonderful three-and-a-half years at EastEnders and it’s been a privilege to be part of such an iconic show. "My storyline has been such an incredible experience and I’m honoured to be part of something so powerful and poignant. "However, I’ve known since the beginning of this storyline it would always lead to Carmel having to take a break from Walford. "I’m not leaving just yet, there’s still plenty more to come from Carmel." Bonnie joined the soap in 2015. Carmel was never intended to be a permanent fixture on the square but she proved popular with viewers. Bonnie's performance in the role earned her the Best Newcomer award at the British Soap Awards in 2016. Viewers were moved to tears recently by heartbreaking funeral scenes in which Carmel said goodbye to son Shakil, who had been murdered in a knife attack.