Emmerdale star Meg Johnson has died at the age of 86 after a battle with dementia.
The actress played the much-loved role of Pearl Ladderbanks - receptionist at the vet's surgery - from 2003 until as recently as early 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic forced her to stay away from set.
In a statement, Johnson's family revealed that she was diagnosed with dementia a few years ago and died on Sunday night with her loved ones present.
It read: "It is with great sadness that we announce that actress Meg Johnson passed away peacefully yesterday evening surrounded by her family. Meg was a kind and wonderful lady, full of warmth and always with a twinkle in her eye.
"Meg had an outstanding career that ended with her playing Pearl Ladderbanks in Emmerdale from 2003. Meg had dementia for the last few years, but battled on personally and professionally regardless.
"She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her."
ITV paid tribute to Johnson with a static in-memoriam card at the end of Monday's Emmerdale episode.
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