Neighbours' principal Williams to exit Ramsay St

Neighbours star Sandy Winton is set to say a fond farewell to Ramsay Street.

Nearly two years since making his debut on the Australian soap, the actor, who plays Erinsborough High principal Michael Williams, will be bowing out in 2012.

"The Michael Williams character (played by Sandy Winton) will be leaving Ramsay Street as part of a significant story coming up in April," Neighbours' executive producer Susan Bower told the soap's official UK website.

As well as being the school headmaster, Michael - who has had a brief romance with Rebecca Robinson (Jane Hall) and made enemies with Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) during his time on the show - is also dad to troubled teenager Tash, played by Valentina Novakovic.

"Sandy's contribution to the show has been superb, enabling the character to be part of some milestone storylines. Tash will remain in Erinsborough, so the Williams name will live on," Susan added.