23 April 2023 , 20:17
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Emmerdale star Dale Meeks made his on-screen return on The Hunt for Raoul Moat which aired days before he died.
The actor, who also undertook roles in Emmerdale and Byker Grove, died aged 47 this week.
Fans know him as Simon Meredith on the long-running soap - which he appeared on for three years from 2003. While Dale played a gang leader from a rival youth club on Byker Grove.
Last week, viewers were shocked to see Dale make an appearance in the three-part ITV drama, The Hunt for Raoul Moat.
Matt Stokoe played the main role of killer Moat - who killed his ex Samantha Stobbart's new boyfriend Christopher Brown days after being released from prison.
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Moat also injured Samantha and went on to shoot and blind a police officer.
Dale took on the role of Moat's friend Rory Sutcliffe in the ITV dramaIn the series, Dale took on the role of Moat's friend Rory Sutcliffe. His character speaks to DCI Adamson and tells him that Moat is 'after' the police.
Rory said: "He said you coppers done him in. He's coming for you...coppers."
Actor Dale even tweeted about his role in the series when it came out last week.
He wrote: "Sadly watching tonight's episode from this equally mysterious and sinister location. It's fantastic to feel the love. Thanks gang. Keep it coming xxx" as he posted a photo of a door but didn't go into further detail about his location.
On Sunday night, Dale's death was announced by a family member on Facebook.
Dale also appeared in Emmerdale from 2003 until 2006 (ITV)The post from the relative stated: "So unbelievably sad. Brother in Law, mucca, side kick and just the BEST friend a lad could have wished for.
"RIP Dale Meeks. So much less to laugh about now you're not there to share it with."
The post continued: "Thanks everyone for all the beautiful messages and memories you have been sharing.
"The support of Dale's friends has been so incredibly strong over these chaotic, heartbreaking final hours, I can only stand in awe."
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Geordie actor Dale has been recognisable on both the stage and screen for decades.