A BLACKBURN actor today revealed how despite being given the cold shoulder by one of soap land's hottest stars he is glad to see the back of Coronation Street.

Sushil Chadasama, who played Sarah Louise Platt's boyfriend, Scooter, told producers after 10 months on the Street that he was not happy.

The 27-year-old said he never felt challenged with his part. And he revealed he could not wait to get his teeth into more serious acting now that he is "free".

Scooter left our screens last month when he was dumped by his on-screen girlfriend, played by Tina O'Brien, who was tired of their boring relationship.

But today Sushil, a former Witton Park High School pupil, said he was glad the producers agreed that it was time Scooter said goodbye to the cobbles of Weatherfield.

Speaking exclusively to the Lancashire Evening Telegraph he said: "I just went to the producer and told them I didn't know where my part was heading. They agreed and we decided to part company. I don't think I would want to go back.

"I never had the chance to really act so there was no challenge. My character never developed and another gripe I had with the producers was that Scooter didn't mix with anybody else.

"He was only ever in one room with the same family. I needed to leave. I felt trapped.

"I joke with friends that it feels like I have been let out of prison.

"It felt weird at first. When you finish something as an actor you are always down for a while. But now I know I made the right decision."

Sushil has also starred in drama Clocking Off, as well as Preston-based film, Chicken Tikka Masala.

The youngest of three brothers, who grew up in Beardwood, now has an apartment in Manchester city centre where he is trying to jump start his career.

He said he is eager to prove his acting talents have more to offer than the shy gentlemanly character he played in Coronation Street from last December.

Sushil has been to a few auditions for theatre productions in Manchester and across the North West but was keeping tight lipped until he was sure of a part.

He added: "My favourite acting is on the stage. The live performances are the best. But I would also love to do something like Shameless. I am looking for a challenge. I think it will really kick off in the new year. I am hoping for lots of new opportunities to come my way."