Frank Kelly discusses 'Emmerdale' role

Former Father Ted star Frank Kelly has opened up over his new role in Emmerdale, admitting that he is glad to have a regular acting job once again.

Earlier this week, it was announced that the Irish actor had signed up to play Declan Macey's (Jason Merrells) eccentric dad Dermot on the Yorkshire soap.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, Kelly revealed that he has signed a one-year contract but would consider a longer stint with the programme.

The 71-year-old explained: "I'd only know if I wanted to stay after the year's up, but it's very well-paid work, and with our economy and the state it's in at the moment, it's very reassuring to be asked to work for a year for really good money."

"The man I'm playing is Irish but not overtly 'oirish'," he continued. "There will be no leprechauns!"

Kelly added that one downside of the job will be spending so much time away from his wife Bairbre.

He said: "We're devoted to one another and I hate being away from my lovely wife and family. I'm hoping to be back each weekend. But it will give me some insurance against this rocking economy."

Kelly will make his first appearance in Emmerdale later this year.