Emmerdale fans call for 'NTA award' after Chorley MP features in 'landmark' episode

Sir Lindsay Hoyle briefly ditched Westminster for the Dales
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


Emmerdale fans have called for Sir Lindsay Hoyle to be honoured with an "NTA" following his special appearance in the ITV soap's landmark 10,000th episode on Monday (January 27) evening.

The Chorley MP and House of Commons speaker made a memorable crossover from politics to prime-time TV as he graced Emmerdale's Hide Bar and Bistro, where he was seen ordering a hot beverage from Laurel. Portraying a Lancastrian hiker, Sir Lindsay popped into the fictional establishment for a warming cup of tea.

The 67-year-old had previously mentioned that his invitation to the Dales came after he hosted a reception for the television industry, which also saw him receiving a pair of wellington boots as a gift. Although the scene was shot back in May, it could only be aired recently due to political broadcast regulations surrounding last June's election.

ADVERTISEMENT

READ MORE: Former Corrie star Kym Marsh issues plea to TV bosses after making discovery about new role

READ MORE: Sir Lindsay Hoyle speaks out on unexpected career change as he lands Emmerdale role

Speaking to BBC Radio Lancashire, he shared that it was "an honour to help the cast celebrate the 10,000th episode of this enduring Yorkshire-based soap, with a visit to the Woolpack".

He continued: "Incredibly, Emmerdale has been on our screens for more than half a century – shining a light on the lived experience of others; entertaining viewers with its hard-hitting storylines, while also making a major economic contribution to the North. As a Lancastrian, I am hugely impressed by the talent and warmth of our friends on 'the other side' of the Pennines."

Sir Lindsay Hoyle briefly ditched Westminster for the Dales
Sir Lindsay Hoyle briefly ditched Westminster for the Dales

Sir Lindsay also took to his Instagram on Tuesday (January 28) afternoon, and alongside a snap of him and Laurel he wrote: "Even though I am a proud Lancastrian, in May 2024, I was thrilled to join the cast of Emmerdale as part of celebrations for their 10,000th episode. In scenes that were aired last night, I visited the Hide Bar and Bistro for a cuppa. Soaps are an important part of British society and Emmerdale has been mentioned in Chamber debates over 300 times."

ADVERTISEMENT

The popular ITV soap was first broadcast on 16 October 1972 and was originally called Emmerdale Farm before they decided to drop "farm" in 1989. It previously focused on the lives of the Sugden family before eventually including the wider village, creating some beloved families that fans adore.

There has since been more than 150 deaths along with some 100 weddings and more than 40 babies born on the soap, along with lots of storylines addressing issues such as alcoholism and domestic violence.

At the time of filming, ITV's managing director of continuing drama in the North, John Whiston shared: "Showing balance between the Northern soaps, Mr Speaker is following up his visit to Coronation Street with a visit to the other side - Emmerdale. We are all honoured to welcome him in The Dales. And we have assured his team that no floods, fires, bus crashes, plane crashes or lightning strikes will hit the Village while he is there - unusually for a Friday."

Replying to his Instagram post, @liamcalland_ joked: "NTA Award for Special Guest goes to..." and @irenemk50 added: "Well spoken Mr speaker".

On X (formerly known as Twitter), @Glosuzanne wrote: "Did anyone see Sir Lindsay Hoyle on Emmerdale last night? It was a cameo walk on part. He was in the café and thanked the waitress for a lovely cup of tea! Maybe he could take up acting" and @MaggieJ42656809 echoed: "Wow Sir Lindsay Hoyle on Emmerdale Brilliant".

Subscribe to our daily newsletter LANCS LIVE NEWS and get all the biggest stories from across Lancashire direct to your inbox