04/07/2008

Veteran Emmerdale Actor Dies

Emmerdale actor Clive Hornby has died at the age of 63.

The veteran actor who played the iconic farmer Jack Sugden announced that he would be taking a break from the soap in January because of ill health.

The star had been in the popular soap for 28 years after signing up on a three-month contract and was the soap's longest-serving cast member.

Emmerdale Series Producer, Anita Turner said: "This is a devastating loss and we are all deeply saddened.

"Clive will be greatly missed by everyone who has worked with him on Emmerdale during the past 28 years.

"He was a hugely popular and well-respected member of cast and a terrific actor. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time."

Hornby was born and grew up in Liverpool and started out as an accounts clerk before becoming a drummer with pop group The Dennisons in the 1960s.

It is reported that the band once even played on the same bill as The Beatles at Liverpool's famous Cavern Club.

The band later released three singles before splitting in 1966.

Hornby then turned his attention to acting, attending the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art before going into repertory theatre.

The actor has appeared in various television productions including the army sitcom Get Some In, Gerry Anderson's Space 1999 and Minder.

He first appeared in Emmerdale on February 19, 1980.

His character had been married three times and had five children.

In June 2008, Emmerdale celebrated its 5000th episode with the marriage of characters Eric Pollard and Val Lambert.

(DS)

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