Richard Blackwood is departing from EastEnders after three years in the soap, it has been confirmed.

The actor has played Vincent Hubbard since February 2015 and will bid farewell to Albert Square in the spring.

Richard Blackwood as Vincent Hubbard and Danny Dyer as Mick Carter (Kieron McCarron/BBC)

Blackwood said it feels like the right time to leave, even though he will be “sad to say goodbye”.

A spokeswoman for EastEnders said in a statement: “We can confirm that Richard will be leaving EastEnders this spring.

“Richard has been a great addition to the show and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Blackwood added: “I have loved every minute of my time at EastEnders and although I will be sad to say goodbye, after three years it feels the right time to leave.

“I have been truly blessed with some great storylines since the moment I joined but when I was presented with my last story I knew it was time for Vincent to depart Walford.

“I’m now excited about what the future holds, I have a feature film out this year, I will be returning to theatre and also some great presenting TV gigs.”