EastEnders cad David Wicks will be leaving Albert Square again this year.

Actor Michael French returned to the soap after 17 years in 2012 to coincide with the final episodes of his on-screen mum Pat Evans.

Soap bosses then persuaded him to return once more for a brief stint, which was extended when Dominic Treadwell-Collins took over as producer last autumn.

Digital Spy, who confirmed French’s departure, reports that the plan was always for David to leave this year.

His exit is believed to be part of a dramatic storyline that will leave the door open for him to return.

David is set to wed his on-off partner Carol, but it’s unknown whether the couple will make it down the aisle.

French’s first run on EastEnders was between 1993 and 1996.

 

A source revealed to the Daily Star Sunday: ‘Michael has been a great addition to the cast since he returned last year.

‘Everyone knows what a perfectionist Michael is. He’s created a soap icon in David Wicks but sadly for all of his fans he’s now set to leave again.’

A spokeswoman for the soap told the paper: ‘We do not comment on storylines as we don’t want to ruin it for our viewers.’

David recently shared a passionate kiss with Nikki Spraggan, and the feisty blonde has been pursuing him for a repeat performance ever since.