Emmerdale star Freddie Jones has passed away, aged 91.

The actor passed away yesterday, July 9, following a short illness, his agent Lesley Duff has confirmed. "It is with great sadness that I can confirm the death of Freddie Jones," Duff told the Press Association. "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." https://twitter.com/emmerdale/status/1148950449699151872 Jones was best known for his role as Sandy Thomas on the ITV soap. He played the retired sailor from 2005 to 2018 when he exited the Dale to travel to Australia, bidding one last emotional farewell to his favourite spot, the Woolpack pub. Emmerdale paid tribute to the actor on Twitter earlier today saying: "Everyone at Emmerdale is deeply sad to hear about the death of one of the show's most brilliant actors and favourite human beings, Freddie Jones." Co-star Charlotte Bellamy, who plays Laurel Thomas in the soap, said that she heard the news of the "wonderful" actor's passing today. "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," she said. "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." "I was one of the fortunate few to share a dressing room with Freddie for more than a decade. He was an amazing man," said Mark Charnock, who plays Marlon Dingle. "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."