Tamzin Outhwaite is "already" starting to miss 'EastEnders' co-star Nitin Ganatra.

Tamzin Outhwaite

Tamzin Outhwaite

The soap star - who has played the role of Masood Ahmed on the BBC show since 2007 - appeared in his final scenes as viewers said goodbye to the character when his last episode aired on Tuesday night (19.02.19).

Cast mate Tamzin - who plays Mel Owen on the soap - tweeted: "Missing you already @GanatraNitin"

Her simple message followed a statement by the 'EastEnders' team as it wished the 51-year-old actor "the very best" for the next stage of his career.

The post read: "Farewell Masood, Albert Square will miss you, and we'll miss you too @GanatraNitin ! We all wish you the very best."

Nitin initially left the show in 2016, before making rare appearances the following year and eventually making a full comeback in 2018.

Speaking about his decision to leave a second time, he previously said: "When I was asked to return to EastEnders it was always with the intention of helping set up new Asian characters that continue the Masood family adventures.

"With Arshad and Mariam at the helm and with the arrival of the feisty sister Iqra and Habiba I can now venture off to new horizons as an actor.

"I am still deeply attached to Masood and have invested much emotion into making this character memorable.

"I am in awe of how loved he is by audiences and fans of all ages, from all cultures and religions and walks with of life. Thank you. I am humbled by the love."