Emmerdale actor Chris Coghill has announced the tragic death of one of his best friends with a poignant statement. Best known for playing Robert Sugden’s prison husband Kev Townsend in the hit ITV soap, Chris shared a devastating update with fans on social media as his “oldest mate in the world” sadly died yesterday (June 17).

Chris wrote: “My oldest mate in the world passed away last night after a truly cruel ending to a life fully f***ing lived. This isn’t a sympathy post. It’s a warning / gentle reminder. Friends are the family you choose. I had some of the very best times of my life with this kid but we’d drifted apart over the last few years which is what life does when you’re busy not looking.

“I was lucky enough to get the chance to put that right in the last few months and be there for him at the end.

“True friendship is like love. It’s always there but sometimes at the back of your mind. Try not to forget. Love is all. F***, and I cannot stress this enough, CANCER.”

Chris included a throwback selfie of the pair posing together with their arms around each other’s shoulders as fans and colleagues rushed to support the star.

Michelle Hardwick, who plays Vanessa Woodfield, echoed: “Sorry to read this Chris, much love to you.”

Tess Harris star Nicola Stephenson posted: “Oh lovely Nicky! Oh god Stacks, I’m so sorry.”