Emmerdale has received praise for the ITV soap’s moving tribute to former actor Dale Meeks following his death.
The tragic death of Dale, 47, was announced over the weekend by his family. He was known for his roles as Simon Meredith in Emmerdale and Greg in BBC drama Byker Grove.
He’d also recently been seen in ITV drama The Hunt for Raoul Moat as the killer’s friend Rory Sutcliffe. Following the airing of Monday night's episode of Emmerdale, a tribute to the actor appeared on the soap's social media channels.
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It featured two pictures of Dale from his time in the programme, including one alongside Nicola Wheeler who plays Nicola King as the pair dated on-screen. "It's with real sadness that we mark the recent death of the immensely talented Dale Meeks who played Simon Meredith in Emmerdale for three years," the message began. "Dale made a lot of friends on the show and a lot of fans in the audience and he will be sadly missed by all."
They added: "The thoughts of the whole Emmerdale family are with his own family and friends at this very sad time." The post was met with messages from devastated fans who praised the soap for recognising Dale’s death.
One viewer @goodwinsnelling said: "I'm glad finally someone posted this..he is just as important as any other." @_sue_g__ commented: "So sad, sending condolences to all friends and family." @pat.newell4 wrote: "RIP Dale, glad I was able to see you in your last ever acting role last week. Condolences to his family & friends."
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Another Emmerdale fan @samjamesparrish said: "Nooooo I remember him from when I was a kid watching Emmerdale! Bless him :( hope he has found some peace and condolences to his family." @maureen.marr.581 added: "I always remember him in Emmerdale, he played a lovely character, I had a mad crush on him too. Dale was a good actor, taken too young, such sad news."
As ever, we'll continue to bring you the big Emmerdale news about what is happening in the village and away from it. You can visit our Emmerdale homepage to find the latest gossip about the soap and its stars.
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