AN Emmerdale star’s heartbreaking exit storyline begins in first look pictures.

Earlier this year, The Sun revealed actress Rachael Gill-Davis’ departure from the Dales.

She debuted as Gail Loman in 2019 for a brief stint – before returning full-time from 2023.

Emmerdale have now shared a first-look at the build up to Gail’s imminent exit.

Her relationship with Ryan Stocks (James Moore) faces a major obstacle in upcoming scenes.

While playing a couples’ game at Mandy’s salon, Gail becomes frustrated with her partner.

It reaches boiling point when Ryan seems to answer a question about Gail incorrectly.

Feeling hurt, Gail proceeds to tell him that she doesn’t think they’re in love anymore.

Stunned by this declaration, Ryan begs her not to leave him – but Gail is left undecided.

How will this play out further?

According to Digital Spy, an Emmerdale source said: “Ryan had no idea that Gail was feeling this way and it may already be too late for him to fix things between them.

“At one point the couple seemed like they were on a great path, but that’s all changed now…”

A source previously said: “Rachael has loved her time on the show but it’s time to go.

“Bosses felt the character wasn’t inspiring much story and so it was all very amicable.

“The door has been left open but it’s a definite goodbye for now.

“Rachael is looking forward to spreading her wings and showing off her talents on other shows.”

Gail was first introduced for one episode in February 2019, when she and Ryan went on a date.

Upon her return four years later, it was revealed the two went further back – having welcomed a son, Oscar, in 2010.

The pair soon rekindled their relationship upon Gail’s reappearance in the village.

Emmerdale continues on ITV1 and ITVX.