Emmerdale actor Freddie Jones has died at the age of 91.
The soap star played Sandy Thomas in the ITV soap for 13 years between 2005 and 2018.
The news of Freddie's death was confirmed by his agent Lesley Duff today, Wednesday July 10.
Duff said: "He passed away on the evening of July 9 after a short illness.
"Freddie was a much loved and admired actor, known for his triumphs in classical theatre, film and television. He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him and most especially his family."
Freddie's character Sandy was the father of vicar Ashley Thomas.
He left the soap last year as Sandy left the Yorkshire Dales for Australia to visit friends Betty and Maisie.
As well as his role on the small screen, Freddie also appeared in an array of Hollywood films including The Elephant Man, Dune, Firefox and Wild At Heart.
Emmerdale stars have also paid tribute to Freddie.
Charlotte Bellamy, who plays Stanley's daughter-in-law Laurel Thomas, said: "We have heard today the wonderful Freddie Jones has passed away. He was 91 years old.
"I was lucky enough to work with Freddie for over 13 years when I played his daughter-in-law, I was in awe of his professionalism, humour and his zest for life.
"He spent his last working years here at Emmerdale where he was loved and respected by us all.
"The world is a poorer place without him."
Mark Charnock, who plays Marlon Dingle, added: "I was one of the fortunate few to share a dressing room with Freddie for more than a decade. He was an amazing man.
"I can't begin to describe the affection the entire cast and crew held for him. He was truly adored. He would light up the set with his wit and charm and privately was the most hilarious, fascinating company.
"He'd worked everywhere, with everyone and his anecdotes were gold dust and like many others, I'll treasure my friendship with him forever.
"People like Freddie don't come along very often and everyone at Emmerdale knew what it meant to have him in our cast. So lucky. A brilliant actor. An absolute gent."
