John, 62, admitted it wasn’t an easy decision to make, after making his first appearance on the ITV soap in December 1996.
Speaking to the Daily Star, John said: “I’m actually finding the prospect very exciting. It’s another roll of the dice. I’m very, very excited about that and I couldn’t ask for a better storyline to leave the show on.”
Viewers will know that it’s been suggested vicar Ashley could be suffering with the early symptoms of dementia.
John revealed that the producer ran the storyline past him first, and claimed it’s one that needs to be told.
He continued: “I had a meeting with the producer and she basically pitched the idea to me.
“I’m totally up to do it because it’s such a challenge and it’s such a relevant story.
“Every year I think, ‘Should I go?’ It’s a bit like being a footballer – you should leave the team when you’ve had a good season. This – if I’m up to it – will provide me with the best season of my life.”
John is expected to continue filming until the end of the year. Will you be sad to see Ashley leave the Dales? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.