EAST Lancashire actress Hannah Hobley has left ITV1’s award-winning sitcom Benidorm.

Hannah’s character Chantelle Garvey disappeared into the sunset with her boyfriend, played by Johnny Vegas, at the end of series three.

And the 21-year-old, who was born in Burnley but has lived in Colne for eight years, confirmed she will not return for the fourth series.

Hannah, a former Fisher More High School Pupil, said her departure was dictated by the path her character has taken in the show.

She said: “The decision was made some time ago that the story between my character ‘Telle and The Oracle, played by my co-star and friend Johnny Vegas, had reached a natural conclusion, as the two unlikely lovers walked off hand in hand to the strains of Spanish Eyes at the end of series three.”

Both Hannah and Johnny were original cast members of the comedy, which follows a set of holidaymakers in Benidorm.

Since it was first aired in 2007 it has won a National Television Award and been nominated for a BAFTA.

But the on-screen couple’s departure will pave the way for new characters and direction.

Hannah, who also sings classical soprano, said she had left the show on good terms and was now looking forward to other projects.

She said: “I join Johnny in wishing everyone on the show the best of luck for the next series.

"I have left Benidorm on a happy storyline and on a personal high and am busy in discussions for other exciting TV and singing projects at the moment.”

Hannah has also starred opposite Dame Judi Dench in the BBC1 period drama Cranford.

Earlier this year she played Fairy Liquid in the Sleeping Beauty pantomime at The Muni, Colne.

She will present the Burnley FC Player of the Year Award at Turf Moor on Thursday May 6.

Benidorm returns for a Christmas special later this year ahead of the fourth series in 2011.