Peggy to quit Albert Square

EASTENDERS stalwart Barbara Windsor is to quit Albert Square after more than 15 years.

Babs, 72 - who plays Queen Vic landlady Peggy Mitchell - has announced she will call time on her life in Walford next year.

She told stunned fans this morning she wanted more time with hubby Scott Mitchell, who is 26 years her junior.

Barbara joked: "I should spend a bit more time with my old man, as he's not getting any younger!"

Her shock decision will disappoint millions who have grown to love tough-talking Peggy.

She said: "I'll be so sad to leave Peggy behind, she's such a wonderful character to play. I have had the pleasure of working with a marvellous cast and crew and have made many lasting good friends."

Show bosses have not yet hinted how they will write the star out.

Barbara became a household name after starring in the classic British Carry On films.

Treasure

But her 1994 arrival as no-nonsense matriarch Peggy on BBC1's flagship soap has made her a national treasure to younger generations.

She will be fondly remembered starring alongside the late Mike Reid, who played her screen husband, loveable rogue Frank Butcher.

She has been deeply involved in many of the most prominent storylines in EastEnders over the years and was awarded an MBE in 1999 and was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Soap Awards in May this year.

Barbara - born Barbara Ann Deeks - said: "To have had the honour of showing the Queen around the set is something that will stay with me forever.

"I would like to thank the BBC for the incredible opportunity they gave me and above all, I must thank the wonderful viewers for their support over the years.

"I'm looking forward to the future."

The BBC's controller of drama production, John Yorke, said: "To most of the British public Barbara IS EastEnders, and it's almost impossible to imagine Albert Square without her.

"For 15 years she's given her heart and soul to EastEnders - she's been a consummate professional, a national treasure and a joy to work alongside. We will all miss her hugely - both as a character, and as a friend."

Diederick Santer, the executive producer of EastEnders, said: "Barbara has contributed so much to EastEnders over the last 15 years, plus countless episodes, and countless amazing storylines.

"Peggy Mitchell is a truly iconic character, and along with Steve McFadden and Ross Kemp, Barbara has made the Mitchells the premier family of British soap.

"I so much enjoy working with her - catching up with the gossip, listening to her stories, talking about the show, benefiting from her advice, and most importantly revelling in her powerful, funny, passionate performances.

"All of us at EastEnders - and our audience - are going to miss her hugely."

• It Endered up in tears

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