Vera star Kenny Doughty has paid an emotional tribute to his late colleague Mark Allen.
Mark, who worked on the ITV drama for eight years, developed complications from coronavirus earlier this year and sadly passed away in April.
As the final episode of the latest series of Vera wrapped on Sunday night, actor Kenny, who plays the character Aiden Healy, took to social media to pay his respects.
Kenny wrote on Twitter “be at peace friend” as fellow cast members took to social media to pay tribute to their former art department colleague.
“Thank you for lovely messages,” wrote Kenny. “Wonderful ep & fantastic cast & director @cebohon1.
“Big respect to our crew. Especially Mark Allen - who sadly passed away.
“Will miss his laugh & his twinkle. Be at peace friend. Now Vera fans - you will see the next 4 eps in 2022! Until then X.” (sic)
Close to seven million people watched last week’s episode of the gripping crime drama, which is set to return next year.
But Kenny’s poignant post encouraged lots of fans of the show to send their respects for Mark.
He had worked as a painter on the show for eight years before his death.
One follower wrote: “RIP Mark. Thank you once again to you and all the cast and crew. Another excellent episode this evening.
“Will miss you guys, huge well done to all involved. A great drama. my Sunday's will be a bit empty.”
Another tweeted: “Absolutely outstanding episode, so well written, directed and performed - so sad to hear about Mark Allen must have been hard for all of you.
A third wrote: “Rest in peace Mark & to the rest of the cast & crew fantastic. You are fab.” (sic)
“Thank you for mentioning Mark,” another replied. “A great man and so pleased to consider him a close friend.
“Hardly anyone will have any idea the hours/years dedicated to #Vera. Every set and location the past 8 years or more. Deserving of the recognition. @VeraSeries.”
Former Heartbeat and Coronation Street actor Kenny has starred alongside actress Brenda Blethyn in Vera since 2015.
And only the other day he praised the show’s loyal fans for helping viewing figures rocket.
“Best fans in the world!” saluted Kenny.
However, some fans have been left gutted that the latest series has temporarily come to an end.
And they made their feelings known on social media.
One asked: "Seriously? Can't be? Only 2 episodes?? Nooooooooo please tell me that's a joke @BrendaBlethyn #Vera."
Another echoed this feeling, writing on Twitter: "Noooooo you can't do that. I've looked forward to it for soooo long. It's finished before it started… come back Vera."
A third said: "I don't know if I can wait that long!" as a fourth added: "Gutted [there's] only two. But usual quality none the less. Missed Kenny though!"
