Emmerdale’s Hornby dies at 63

Published Friday 4 July 2008 at 11:30 by Matthew Hemley

Emmerdale actor Clive Hornby, who was the show’s longest serving cast member, died last night aged 63.

Hornby has played Jack Sugden in the soap since 1980, but had not been on screen since February because of ill health.

Emmerdale series producer Anita Turner said: “This is a devastating loss and we are all deeply saddened. Clive will be greatly missed by everyone who has worked with him on Emmerdale during the past 28 years. He was a hugely popular and well-respected member of cast and a terrific actor. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”

Hornby was born and grew up in Liverpool and started out as an accounts clerk before enjoying success as a drummer with pop group the Dennisons in the sixties.

The band played on the same bill as the Beatles at Liverpool’s famous Cavern Club.

When the group split, Hornby turned his attention to acting, attending the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art before moving into repertory theatre.

He appeared in various television productions including the army sitcom Get Some In and Minder, alongside George Cole.