BBC EastEnders: Maisie Smith posts emotional statement as she says goodbye to Tiffany Butcher

Eastenders fans have said goodbye to one of Albert Square's most beloved characters, as Maisie Smith posted an emotional statement on her final day as Tiffany Butcher-Baker.

Smith has been in the role for 13 years and it will be the 'end of an era', according to soap fans.

The actress's exit storyline has now officially started, and is set to climax as Tiffany leaves Walford and takes a break from her boyfriend Aaron Monroe.

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On Tuesday, the 20-year old took to social media and posted some behind-the-scene photos of her final day.

"Wow. Eastenders you have been a dream," she wrote. "Lotta tears, lotta laughs and a whole lotta love.

"Episode 685 complete. Farewell Tiffany Butcher-Baker."

The first snap was of her smiling as she stood in front of the Albert Square sign.

Another photo showed her posing behind the table with EastEnders co-stars Charlie Wernham and Danielle Harold.

Charlie commented on Maisie's post: "Tiff will be missed…. Maisie, not so much. But Tiff xx."

Danielle said: "From the floppy bunny ear slippers to the big girl hoops ❤️ go and shine ⭐️ Love you !! Xxx"

Mill Zero said "SUPERSTAR" whilst another co-star Natalie Cassidy commented: "SO PROUD OF YOU."

Eastenders Louisa Lytton left a simple heart-shaped emoji on the post.

Maisie said she was 'inconsolable' when she was filming her final scenes: "Shona [McGarty] and I literally cried the whole way through and after, we got so emotional."

Having filmed her final scenes in October, Maisie said: "It's time to say farewell to Tiff. I've grown up on EastEnders since 2008, and have learnt from the best over the past 13 years.

"I'm very excited for my next challenge and thank the BBC for the opportunity they gave me as a 6 year old."

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