He was ill with a serious illness.
Father Dermot Donnelly, who is the brother of TV personality Declan Donnelly has passed away following a serious illness.
He was 55 years old.
According to
Metro, Dermot was urgently brought into a hospital in North Durham yesterday. His brother and other family members travelled to be with him.
News of Donnelly's passing was confirmed by Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle who said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that I 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."
The statement continued: "Please pray for the repose of his soul and keep his family, especially his mother, in your prayers at this difficult time."
Funeral arrangements are still being made, and the Bishop will confirm them once they are finalised.
Yesterday, following reports that Dermot was unwell, Catholic community and Pontop Partnership asked their congregations to pray for him.
In a post on Facebook, they said: "Please pray for Fr. Dermott Donnelly who is seriously ill in hospital."
Another post from
Stanley, Dipton & Byermoor Catholic Parishes read: "Please pray for Father Dermott who is extremely unwell in hospital.
"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."
