Declan Donnelly has been left heartbroken following the death of his older brother.
The diocese of Hexham and Newcastle confirmed the 55-year-old Catholic priest brother of the ITV star has died following a short illness. They said that Father Dermott Donnelly died peacefully in hospital on Friday afternoon, July 8.
A statement shared by the diocese of Hexham and Newcastle said: "It is with great sadness that we have to 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. Funeral arrangements will follow when finalised."
READ MORE: Declan Donnelly's priest brother 'extremely unwell' in hospital
Earlier in the day, Stanley, Dipton & Byermoor Catholic Parishes posted: "Please pray for Father Dermott who is extremely unwell in hospital." They added: "Tomorrow evening between 6pm-7pm there will be period of time before the Blessed Sacrament so that we can come together as a community in St Joseph's Church to pray for Father Dermott's welfare. Please be respectful to Father Dermott and his family at this difficult time, we will update you as and when we receive the most up to date information verified by the Diocese."
Father Dermott is understood to have been a priest for 30 years. In 2015 he officiated at the wedding of his famous brother to Ali Astall in Newcastle in a star-studded ceremony.
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