Corrie's Maxine could be Richard Hillman's next victim

Coronation Street's Maxine is tipped to be Richard Hillman's next murder victim.

Actress Tracy Shaw is leaving ITV soap to work on new projects, after seven years.

It is thought that her character will be killed off by Hillman in a sinister canal-side murder.

According to the News Of The World, Hillman, played by Brian Capron, explodes into a rage after realising Maxine warned his mum-in-law Audrey Roberts that he's conning her out of her money.

He kills Maxine in revenge for wrecking his plan.

Hillman has already killed ex-wife Patricia and left ex-business partner Duggie Ferguson to die after an accident.

It is thought producers have filmed several alternative endings to Maxine's departure.

A Coronation Street spokeswoman said: "It's common knowledge that Tracy is leaving but I cannot comment about her departure."