Father Dermott Donnelly, who serves with the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle, has sadly died aged 55 following serious illness.
Father Dermott, TV star Dec's brother, was admitted to hospital after becoming seriously unwell.
It has now been announced he has sadly died. The sad news was confirmed by the Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle.
A statement shared by the Bishop said: "It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Fr Dermott Donnelly who died peacefully this afternoon in hospital.
"This has come as a great shock to all of us
.
"Please pray for the repose of his soul and keep his family, especially his mother, in your prayers at this difficult time.
"Funeral arrangements will follow when finalised."
The Catholic community had been sending well wishes to Fr. Dermott when it was announced he had become unwell.
The news was revealed as prayers were being held for him by the Catholic community and Pontop Partnership, a partnership of ten Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle, took to Facebook to release a statement on the sad news.
Fr Dermott had recently celebrated serving 30 years with the Diocese.
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