Emmerdale said goodbye to one of its most loved characters on Thursday, as Faith Dingle reached the end of her battle with terminal cancer.
Sally Dexter, who plays the Dingle matriarch, was at the centre of heartbreaking scenes as Faith slipped away following the short illness. The character has been making beloved memories with her family knowing that her time is coming to an end.
Viewers were devastated after Thursday's episode. Some even said they couldn't watch as they couldn't "handle" seeing Faith die.
READ MORE: Emmerdale's original Faith Dingle actress 18 years after exit as character dies
The character refused treatment knowing that her days were limited and didn't want to face the side effects of chemotherapy.
But in recent episodes her body has grown frail and her mind wasn't quite what it once was. As a result she told her daughter-in-law, Moira, of a plan to take her own life when the illness became too much.
At the final moment, Cain turned up at his dying mum's side, realising that it was her time to go. He stayed with her until her final heartbreaking breath as he reassured her and comforted her.
Now, Sally Dexter has said an emotional thank you, and goodbye, to Emmerdale fans. In an Instagram post on Thursday night, the 62-year-old said people even come up to her in the street to "say hello".
She added: "It's only been a few short years but I've loved it, and I've loved sharing it with all of you. As sad as it's been, it's also been a real pleasure and a privilege".
Fellow Emmerdale stars rushed to wish Sally well. Amy Walsh who plays Tracy Metcalfe said: "She's just great!!!", while Lydia Dingle actress Karen Blick said: "Love love love Sally Dexter xx"
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