Yahoo News Watch Emmerdale Villagers Attend Edna's Funeral In Emotional Episode
Emmerdale villagers have a tough week in store when they pay tributes to Edna Birch at her funeral.
A newly released clip shows the ITV soap’s characters gathered at the church waiting for the hearse to arrive.
The moment was no doubt tough for the stars of show as Shirley Stelfox, who played Edna, died of cancer aged 74 last year.
During the emotional scenes, there was still room for some comedy as Kerry (Laura Norton) says: “I thought this place would be empty. Edna was always so judgy-faced. ”
Copyright [ITV/REX/Shutterstock]
Several of the characters read out individual words of praise to describe Edna, such as “modest”, “compassionate” and “honest”.
But the funeral is too much for Sandy Thomas (Freddie Jones), who leaves because he feels too upset.
His son Ashley (John Middleton) follows him and the pair sit by the river recalling fond memories of Edna.
Copyright [ITV]
The emotional scenes continue inside the church when Edna’s best friend Pearl Ladderbanks (Meg Johnson) gives Edna a great send off with a touching tribute.
A choir then starts singing before the villagers leave the church.
As well as playing Edna, Shirley also made appearances in Coronation Street, EastEnders and Brookside.
Copyright [ITV]
One of her most well known roles was as Hyacinth Bucket’s sister Rose in Keeping Up Appearances.
Confirming her death in December, John Whiston - who is managing director of continuing drama and ITV North - said: “The family here at Emmerdale are deeply saddened by Shirley’s passing, it is hard to imagine the show 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.”
