CONFIRMED: NEIGHBOURS TO LEAVE CHANNEL 5 THIS SUMMER

The Australian soap - which first aired on BBC One in the UK in 1986 - is set to come to an end this Summer.

Channel 5 producers have reportedly spent weeks in talks with producers at Fremantle Australia to strike a deal to keep the series on air, but those talks have reportedly failed.

Channel 5 said in a statement: "Neighbours will no longer air on Channel 5 beyond this summer. It has been a much-loved part of our schedule for more than a decade, and we'd like to thank the cast, Fremantle and all of the production team for their fantastic work on this iconic series...

"We'd also of course like to thank the fans for their loyal support of Neighbours across the years. We recognise that there will be disappointment about this decision, however our current focus is on increasing our investment in original UK drama, which has strong appeal for our viewers."

A Network 10 spokesperson said: "As outlined in the email to Neighbours cast and crew, it is our intention to continue our association with Neighboursif another broadcast partner comes forward...

Network 10 has an ongoing commitment to the show, the cast and crew and is hopeful that Fremantle will find a new production partner. We will provide further updates as they become available."

A source told The Sun: "The cast and crew in Melbourne haven’t been told about the decision. They will be devastated. Neighbours is an institution people grew up with...

"Channel 5 pay Fremantle Australia many millions of pounds every year and, sadly, there’s a shortfall of about £5million in what it brings back in through advertising. There’s a lot of disbelief and sadness among those who know it’s ending...

"They are currently in the process of approaching a number of former cast members, including Kylie, to make a special return. Now it’s the end, it really would be something special to have her back in Ramsay Street one last time."

For now, Neighbours aired weeknights at 6pm on Channel 5.