Lynne McGranger's heartbreaking final Home and Away storyline revealed as her beloved character Irene is set to face devastating illness

The 72-year-old was gifted flowers by her co-stars, including Ada Nicodemou (right), and looked very emotional - albeit elated - as she finished up at Seven's long-running series after over 30 years in the cast

Home and Away is set to wave goodbye to one of its beloved, longstanding cast members, and her final hurrah is creeping up on fans quicker than they expected.

Irene Roberts, played by the legendary Lynne McGranger, will be leaving screens in the coming months after three decades on the hit Aussie series.

It has been revealed that the tough-talking, lovable character's final storyline, which is currently in motion, will grip the nation.

In recent weeks, Irene has battled with distressing memory loss, including a moment where she forgot she was babysitting Archie and nearly left him at home by himself.

Next week, Irene will take her first step in coming face-to-face with the truth, with the help of dear friend, John Palmer, played by Shane Withington.

Irene Roberts, played by the legendary Lynne McGranger (pictured), will be leaving screens in the coming months after three decades on the hit Aussie series .

After John pushes Irene to meet with Dr Bree Cameron, played by Juliet Godwin, for a medical consultation, the reality of the situation becomes hard to shake off: There's no coming back from this one.

As word spreads about her condition, the Summer Bay community will rally around the much-loved character and get her through her toughest challenge.

In March, it was revealed that Lynne had filmed her final scenes as Irene on Home and Away, with the series sharing moving scenes from her last day on set.

The 72-year-old was gifted flowers by her co-stars, including Ada Nicodemou, and looked very emotional - albeit elated - as she finished up at Seven's long-running series after over 30 years in the cast.

'I've had the ride of my life. And I love each and every one of you so much: The cast – Ray, Georgie, Emily, Shane, Ada, James, all the youngins' she said in a statement.

'The art department, the writers, everybody – there are so many unsung heroes. This show is made up of so many parts' Lynne continued.

'You're all amazing, and it's been my great privilege to work with each and every one of you. I'm touched, I'm humbled and I'm so honoured. Thank you so much.'

An additional post to the show's Instagram read: 'Today, Lynne wrapped her final scene with her best friend Ada by her side.

It has been revealed that the tough-talking, lovable character's final storyline, which is currently in motion, will grip the nation

Next week, Irene will take her first step in coming face-to-face with the truth, with the help of dear friend John Palmer, played by Shane Withington (pictured)

Stay tuned for Irene's emotional exit storyline coming later this year'.

Lynne has been a Home and Away fan favourite for three decades playing the character of 'Aussie battler' Irene Roberts.

The actress, who is nominated for both a Silver and Gold Logie at this year's 65th Awards, announced her departure from the show earlier this year.

'After almost 33 years in my dream role and working every day with people who I love, respect and whom I now consider family, it's bittersweet to be closing the chapter on what has been the best and longest gig of my life' the veteran star said at the time.

'I am forever grateful to the best production crew in the world and to our genius writers – whose doors are always open – for everything they have done for Irene over the past 33-odd years' she continued.

'And I am so proud of the storyline which will see Irene out of the Bay. Above all, a massive, heartfelt thank you to the fans for your continued love and support.'