Frank Kelly praises 'Emmerdale' co-stars

Emmerdale's new recruit Frank Kelly has revealed that he is thrilled with the warm reception he has received from the soap's stars in recent weeks.

The former Father Ted actor has been cast as Declan Macey's mischievous father Dermot on the Yorkshire soap, making him part of the new Home Farm dynasty alongside Jason Merrells, Corrinne Wicks and Sapphire Elia.

Speaking to Digital Spy about Merrells, Kelly explained: "I like him very much - we're already mates! We've just been on the same wavelength from day one, which is great.

"And Corrinne Wicks is a lovely girl, really lovely company and very charming. She looks so cool, calm and collected - but she's got a great sense of humour. She always laughs very heartily indeed!"

Discussing the rest of the Emmerdale cast, the star laughed: "Oh, it's one of the warmest families I've ever been in. It's amazing - I don't know what drug they're on, but it certainly works!

"Everybody - from the directors down - is very warm, welcoming, pleasant and supportive. I don't know how they achieve it, but they're really keen to keep it like that. And I think that comes through on the show."

Kelly's Emmerdale debut airs in tomorrow night's episode of the programme as Dermot arrives at Home Farm for Christmas.

> Click here to read our full interview with Frank Kelly
> Click here to read our Emmerdale spoilers