'Coronation Street's producer Stuart Blackburn has quit the soap.

Coronation Street

Coronation Street

The show's boss has revealed he is leaving his role on the ITV show in the New Year and will be replaced by 'Emmerdale's current producer Kate Oates.

Speaking about his departure, Stuart said: "I've loved every minute of producing 'Coronation Street'. What a rollercoaster ride the last three years has been. We've met every challenge along the way and I can't praise the cast, crew and writers highly enough for rising to the occasion with each storyline ...

"I'm in awe of everyone I work with and can't thank them enough for the last three years. For the next few months my focus will remain entirely on all things 'Corrie', as we have massive stories coming up taking us in to the spring and summer of 2016. I wish my friend Kate well in her role as she takes on one of the best jobs in television."

And Kate has admitted she is feeling "very blessed" to move from one soap to the next.

She shared: "I'm delighted to accept the role as 'Coronation Street's new Producer. It's really exciting to be moving from one amazing soap to another and I feel very blessed.

"'Emmerdale' is an exceptional programme and I've thoroughly enjoyed working with the cast, writers and crew. They are some of the absolute best in the business and it's been a privilege to work with such dedicated, hard-working and creative people, and make some life-long friends in the process. But as much as 'Emmerdale' has meant the world to me 'Corrie' also has a special place in my heart."