We are saddened to report that Shirley Stelfox has passed away.
The 74-year-old actress, who played Edna Birch for fifteen years in ITV’s Emmerdale, slipped away peacefully at her home on Monday, with her daughter Helena by her side.
In a statement, her agent said she had been diagnosed with cancer and had lost her life after a short battle with the illness.
TV executive producer John Whiston said: "The family here at Emmerdale are deeply saddened by Shirley's passing, it is hard to imagine Emmerdale without her.
"We offer our condolences to Shirley's family and share our feeling of loss with the millions of viewers who will miss Edna enormously."
Shirley may have been best known for her starring role in Emmerdale, but the RADA trained actress had a varied career on stage and screen, appearing in many West End and leading TV productions.
On television she played leading roles in Common As Muck, Brookside, EastEnders, Coronation Street, Civvies, Making Out, Keeping Up Appearances, Pat & Margaret and Hope & Glory.
She also starred opposite John Hurt in 1984’s Personal Services.
Shirley Stelfox was married to actor Don Henderson from 1979 until his death in 1997.
Our thoughts are with Shirley’s family and loved ones at this tragic time.