A soap legend returned to Emmerdale tonight after retiring two years ago.
Fans were delighted to see Diane Sugden, played by Elizabeth Estensen, in the village once more as the character helped the Dingles bid farewell to Faith - who was in her final days of battling a terminal cancer diagnosis.
The village pulled together to bring the beach to her for one final, memorable day out. Faith said that the day was "bliss" as she sat taking it all in.
READ MORE: Emmerdale Faith Dingle actress Sally Dexter's exit date and how she wanted to leave
But there was another surprise waiting for her, as Diane made a shock return. When Diane arrived at the get together, travelling by ice cream van, Faith squealed with happiness and Chas and Rodney exchanged a glance - knowing that they have done a good job of organising the day.
Fans on Twitter were made up with it all too. Mike said: "It’s Diane, loved Diane #Emmerdale."
Brett said: "Aw #emmerdale is SO lovely tonight. The whole beach party thing is so wholesome. And yay Diane!" Peta said: "Woah!! It’s Diane Sugden!! #Emmerdale".
Owen said: "There’s something so brilliant about Diane coming to surprise Faith in a ice cream van #Emmerdale." And, Amelia said: "Diane coming back to see faith is so cute #Emmerdale"
Back in September 2021 actress Elizabeth announced that she would be retiring from Emmerdale after 22 years of playing Diane. At the time, she said: "For the past 22 years I have loved playing Diane Sugden – she’s kind, reliable and fiercely loyal.
“However, I feel the time has come to say goodbye. Emmerdale will always remain special to me. I’ve been treated with respect and kindness and I’ve had the very best friends and colleagues, both past and present. I’ll miss everyone dearly.”
Receive newsletters with the biggest and breaking TV and showbiz news by signing up here
READ NEXT:
The Chase fans fume as players 'robbed' of £52,000 moments before end of episode
Gogglebox's Stephen Lustig-Webb supported by fans after making huge change
France travel warning to everyone visiting from UK
Brain tumour medic missed own symptoms before devastating diagnosis
Married at First Sight Thomas Hartley's powerful message as he shows off transformation
