YOUNG Coronation Street actress Emma Woodward has decided to quit the soap to concentrate on her school work.

The 10-year-old, who plays Sophie Webster, moves up to high school in September and her family feel she is approaching an important period in her education.

Her grandmother and chaperone at Granada TV, Maureen Cain, of Glebelands Road, Prestwich, said: "Emma is taking her SATS in May and then she is going to St Gabriel's RC High School in September. It was a very, very hard decision to make but I think she will find it very difficult when she goes to high school as pupils are only allowed a certain number of days off.

"If Emma wants to carry on with acting after she has taken her exams then I am sure she will. Her education is most important though."

Emma, who currently attends St Joseph's RC Primary School in Ramsbottom, joined Coronation Street at the age of three and has enjoyed seven years on the show.

Mrs Cain, known as Grandma Mo to her family and friends, said Emma always remembered her lines and the staff and other actors at Granada always made a fuss of her.

She added: "She is quite a shy little lass but Sally and Michael who play her on-screen parents, Sally and Kevin, have been wonderful with her. Emma wanted to thank them for looking after her. She has also had a lot of help from her tutor, Kit. Being part of Coronation Street has improved her English, it has been a fantastic experience."

Emma will be seen on our screens as Sophie for the next month and her last scene will be shown on Sunday, April 25. Street bosses are auditioning for her replacement over the next fortnight.