The Catholic priest brother of ITV star Declan Donnelly has died at the age of 55. Earlier on Friday is was announced Father Dermott Donnelly was "extremely unwell" in hospital.
However on Friday afternoon the Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle shared a statement to announce the priest had passed away, reports The Mirror. It 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."
It continued: "Funeral arrangements will follow when finalised." The TV star raced to his brother's side after he fell seriously ill after he collapsed.
Dec posted his own message on his Twitter account saying: "I am heartbroken to tell you that my darling brother Fr Dermott, @TweeterPriest, sadly passed away this afternoon. We are all beyond devastated. Thank you for your messages of sympathy and support, they are appreciated DD"
Earlier in the day it was reported that messages wishing the priest well had been posted online as Catholic parishes in the north-east of England announced on Facebook that he had been admitted to hospital. People were due to gather to pray for his wellbeing tomorrow evening.
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