Declan Donnelly's brother, Father Dermott Donnelly, has tragically passed away aged 55.
The TV star is said to have raced to his brother's side after he fell seriously ill. The source told The Sun: "Dec arrived with other family members. There are around 12 of them there at the hospital."
Dermott, who was a priest, reportedly collapsed earlier this week amid a mystery illness, before being admitted to hospital in North Durham. The sad news of Dermott's passing was confirmed by the Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle.
A statement shared by the Bishop said: "It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Fr Dermott Donnelly who died peacefully this afternoon in hospital. This has come as a great shock to all of us. Please pray for the repose of his soul and keep his family, especially his mother, in your prayers at this difficult time. Funeral arrangements will follow when finalised."
The news was revealed as prayers were being held for him by the Catholic community and Pontop Partnership, a partnership of ten Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle, took to Facebook to release a statement on the sad news.
As reported by Chronicle Live, they posted: "Please pray for Fr. Dermott Donnelly who is seriously ill in hospital."
Stanley, Dipton & Byermoor Catholic Parishes posted more information on Facebook on Thursday evening. A post read: "Please pray for Father Dermott who is extremely unwell in hospital.
"Tomorrow evening between 6pm-7pm there will be period of time before the Blessed Sacrament so that we can come together as a community in St Joseph's Church to pray for Father Dermott's welfare. Please be respectful to Father Dermott and his family at this difficult time, we will update you as and when we receive the most up to date information verified by the Diocese."
Dec was said to be among 12 other family members at the hospital. He has six siblings in total and is known to have had a close relationship with Dermott, 55, who conducted Dec and wife Ali Astall's 2015 wedding.
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