THE British Soap Awards shortlist has been announced – but Coronation Street and Hollyoaks are snubbed in a major category.

Earlier this year, The Sun revealed ITV’s celebration of all things soap would be returning – with Jane McDonald back at the helm.

The nomination shortlist has now been unveiled ahead of the ceremony later this month.

However, Coronation Street and Hollyoaks appear to have been snubbed from the Best Leading Performer category.

Shortlisted nominees include Emmerdale’s Eden Taylor-Draper (Belle Dingle) and Beth Cordingly (Ruby Fox-Miligan).

Joining them are EastEnders stars Kellie Bright (Linda Carter) and Lacey Turner (Stacey Slater).

Each soap contributed four cast members to the category’s long list although only the four stars mentioned above were voted to the shortlist.

However, both Coronation Street and Hollyoaks are in the running for other awards at the event.

Corrie star and Celebrity Big Brother winner Jack P. Shepherd, 37, is nominated for Best Comedy Performance.

The ITV soap has several other nominations, including for Best British Soap, Villain of the Year and Best Storyline to name a few.

Hollyoaks is likewise up for several awards, such as Isabelle Smith being nominated for Best Newcomer as Frankie Osborne.

The soap’s other nominations include, among others, Best Dramatic Performance, Best Single Episode and Best On-Screen Partnership.

A show source said previously: “The soaps are as popular as ever and currently delivering some brilliant must see TV so fans can expect a night to remember when The British Soap Awards returns.

“The British Soap Awards were hugely missed by everyone last year, it’s the biggest night in the soap calendar so there’s great excitement it’s back.”

The highly anticipated ceremony comes after a massive year and big changes across all the soaps.

Coronation Street legend Helen Worth bowed out from playing Gail Platt after an incredible 50 years in the role.

EastEnders marked its 40th anniversary with