Fans devastated as Coronation Street favourite reveals shock exit from the soap after four years

Coronation Street's very own silver fox Tristan Gemmill has announced he's leaving the show.

The actor - who plays  chef Robert Preston - tweeted the news on Friday, teasing that there's still a lot more to come before his exit.

"Folks, I just wanted to let you know that the time has come for me to hang up the chef’s gear and head for pastures new," he wrote.

Coronation Street

"There is still a lot of drama & shenanigans to come for Robert but I will be leaving @itvcorrie later in the year."

And obviously fans were devastated at his departure, with one replying: "Oh no!! But I wish you every success in whatever you're going on to do Tristan."

"Very big shame but wish you all the best for the future," said another, while a third added: "That's very sad news you've been a great addition to corrie over the years a very talented actor you will be sorely missed Good Luck for your new ventures."

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Dancing On Ice star Jane Danson - who plays Leanne Battersby  - also reacted to the news by posting a crying emoji.

Tristan, 51, took on the role of Tracy Barlow's ex-husband, which was originally played by Julian Kay in 2015.

A spokesperson for Corrie has since confirmed: "Tristan has done Coronation Street proud. His character Robert has been at the centre of some truly high stakes drama and some deep felt emotional stories.

"Tristan has delivered all of this with huge aplomb and great professionalism and there is plenty more drama to come before he leaves us."

A quick chat with Casualty's Tristan Gemmill

Before joining the cobbles in 2015, Tristan played consultant Adam Trueman in BBC soap Casualty and he revealed to Soap Life last year that he's still in touch with his friends from the show.

“I had a lovely chat and a drink with some of them at the BAFTAS a few months ago," the star admitted.

"Casualty’s become a bit grittier since I was in it. That’s no bad thing, though.”