Rita Sullivan played by Barbara KnoxWe’re still reeling from yesterday’s Coronation Street quitter news, so today’s double header just seems cruel.

Rita Sullivan is leaving the Kabin and Joe McIntyre is off for good.

After 36 years selling ‘papers and sweets Rita (Barbara Knox) has decided it’s retirement time. She’s set to announce the news at the wake of Ramsey Clegg (Andres Sachs).

She tells business partner Norris Cole (Malcolm Hebden) and long time friend Emily Bishop (Eileen Derbyshire) the news first, saying: “His death made me think about why I’m working at the shop when I don’t need to.

I’m fed up of working, I’m going to retire. I know I’ve said it before but this time I mean it and I won’t change my mind.”

An ITV insider said: “It’s a massive change for the face of Coronation Street. Rita has been selling cigarettes, organising ‘papers and gossiping with customers for decades.

She is one of the soap’s biggest characters.”

Reece Dinsdale as Joe McIntyre However, Rita’s move from the Kabin doesn’t equate a move right out of Weatherfield. Unlike Joe McIntyre.

Actor Reece Dinsdale has apparently quit the show over fears of being typecast and is apparently in talks to make Strictly Come Dancing his next port of call.

A soap star on Strictly? That’s not typical at all…

Find out when Coronation Street is next on TV.