Charley Webb has paid tribute to friend Leah Bracknell after her tragic death.
Former Emmerdale star Leah has lost her battle with lung cancer, it was announced yesterday.
After hearing the news, Charley, who has played Debbie Dingle in the ITV soap since 2002, paid a touching tribute to her co-star.
Sharing a picture of Leah, who played Zoe Tate from 1989 to 2005, she said: "The most beautiful soul. RIP my lovely friend".
Mum-of-two Leah lost her battle with cancer in September.
She had been diagnosed three years ago.
Her manager confirmed her sad passing in a statement.
They said: "It is with the deepest sadness that Leah Bracknell's family confirm that Leah passed away in September, three years after her diagnosis with stage 4 lung cancer.
"They would like to thank all the public for their support and generosity which contributed to the extension and quality of her life over the past three years. Leah continued to embrace life and faced her illness with positivity. Many aspects of her journey can be found on her blog.
"Leah was best known and much loved as Zoe Tate in Emmerdale. She also had roles in Judge John Deed, A Touch of Frost, The Royal Today and DCI Banks to name just a few, as well as numerous appearances on stage and in pantomime. As well as acting, Leah was also an accomplished yoga teacher and shamanic healer.
"Leah had an energy and enthusiasm for life, a kind heart and much love to give to those around her.
"Her family have asked for privacy at this very sad time."
Leah, whose real name was Alison, or Ali for short, had married her long-term partner, author Jez Hughes, in March, last year, after she discovered her treatment had stopped working.
She and Jez said their vows at an intimate registry office ceremony in Horsham, Sussex.
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