Iconic Emmerdale Actor Richard Thorp Has Dies At The Age Of 81

Emmerdale actor Richard Thorp has sadly passed away at the age of 81, it has been confirmed.

The actor, who played the role of Alan Turner, made his first appearance on the soap in 1982, making him the longest serving cast member. During his time in the soap, the iconic village which Emmerdale is set in, experienced happiness and tragedy.

Commenting on the sad news of Thorp's passing, Emmerdale's series producer Kate Oates told ITV:

"Richard's death is a sad loss to Emmerdale, of which he was at the heart for so many wonderful years. Richard had a brilliant sense of humour and he will be missed by every single member of our production whose lives he touched."

Richard Thorp has sadly passed away (ITV Pictures)

As news broke of his death, tributes started to flood in from Emmerdale actors including actress Gemma Oaten and Chris Bisson. Tweeting her condolences, Gemma wrote: "As you've heard our wonderful Richard Thorp has died. Such a beautiful man. I need say no more. Love and thoughts with his family #Emmerdale"

Chris, who plays the role of Jai Sharma, tweeted: "Very sorry to hear the news that Richard Thorpe, Emmerdale's Alan Turner, has passed away He was always a gentleman and will be sadly missed."

Cheryl Fergison, who played Heather Trott in EastEnders, also took to the social networking site to send her condolences. She wrote: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Richard thorp. One of emmerdale a finest love and strengh to family and friends."

Our thoughts are with Richard Thorp's family and friends.

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