EastEnders actress Lacey Turner is reportedly gearing up for an extended break from the soap later this year.

The 32-year-old has only just returned to the show after a year away on maternity leave, with her character Stacey Slater's return to Walford airing in episodes this week.

According to the Daily Star, producers have now agreed to allow Turner some more time off, although the reason for her leave request is unclear.

"Lacey will be taking a break. The top bosses agreed to give her some time off from the show," a source told the newspaper.

"This is a great opportunity for the writers to come up with something big for Lacey to get her teeth into.

"She has always been a big hit with fans. There is no doubt they will really miss her while she's off screen."

News of Turner's exit comes days after co-star Jake Wood quit the soap after 15 years.