'Coronation Street' actor David Neilson is set to take a break from the soap.

David Neilson as Roy Cropper in 'Coronation Street'

David Neilson as Roy Cropper in 'Coronation Street'

David - who has played cafe owner Roy Cropper for 20 years - is reportedly preparing to take three months off in order to "recharge".

The 66-year-old actor will also be joining the cast of an upcoming stage show during his break, according to The Sun newspaper.

And ITV bosses are said to have been more than "happy to accommodate" his request for some time off by writing him out of upcoming storylines for the time being.

David has been at the centre of a number of emotional plot lines during his time on the soap, including the death of his on-screen wife Hayley Cropper (Julie Hesmondhalgh) last year.

The news comes after Brooke Vincent - who plays Sophie Webster - revealed 'Corrie' bosses had agreed to give her some time off next year so she too can star in a play.

She said previously: "I wasn't really that fussed. I got approached to do a play and I said, 'Yes, let's see what work say'.

"I really didn't think they'd let me do it and they did and now everyone is saying they'll have to come and watch. But I'm going to tell them the wrong date."

Brooke Vincent will be taking eight weeks off from the start of September in order to play a pregnant woman in a play at The Lowry theatre in Salford.