Emmerdale officials have took to social media to share an emotional tweet to honour the life of Paula Tilbrook, who was better known as Betty Eagleton on the soap.
The iconic soap star was described as a “great talent and a wonderful friend” in the heartfelt tribute that was shared to their official Twitter page.
Paula’s death, which happened on December 1, 2019, was revealed in theatre industry publication The Stage today (Wednesday).
In the wake of her death, Emmerdale officials have paid their respects to the actress who devoted 21 years of service to the soap.
Paula played the much loved Beatty Eagleton for 21 years on Emmerdale (Image: ITV)
The message read: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of our much loved colleague, Paula Tilbrook.
“Paula was at the heart of Emmerdale for many years and she will be greatly missed by all who worked with her and by the fans of her character, Betty.
“We have lost a great talent and a wonderful friend but she will forever live in the memories of those lucky enough to have known her. #Emmerdale”
Emmerdale release a heartfelt tribute to Paula Tilbrook after her death was announced
Shocked fans and co-stars flooded the comments section to relay their heartache and offered condolences to Paula’s loved ones.
Bhasker Patel who plays Rishi Sharma on the show, said: “Only filmed briefly with #PaulaTilbrook in storylines in @emmerdale but always felt such Gravitas, Total Respect and Professionalism in her work & presence. Thank you.”
Natalie Anderson who plays Alicia Gallagher on Emmerdale said: “Such an unbelievably lovely, kind and wonderful lady to work with. I learnt so much watching her both on and off set. Thoughts are with her family and friends.”
Paula had a successful acting career staring in Emmerdale and Coronation Street (Image: Mark Liley/Allstar)
“This is so sad, I loved her character her sense of humour, we lost a good soul. May she rest in peace,” added one fan.
“Jesus cant believe we have just heard now, she’s been brill in the classic Emmerdale. Rip Paula,” exclaimed another.
Paula played the much loved character Betty Eagleton between 1994 and 2015, with her final episode being on Christmas Day.
In addition to her incredible career with Emmerdale, she also had a handful of appearances in Coronation Street too, playing the role of Vivian Barford between 1991 and 1993.
She also featured in Open All Hours in 1981, Last of the Summer wine and as Betty Hughes in the Liverpool soap Brookside between 1984 and 1985.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
