Prime Minister's father-in-law joins 'Emmerdale'

Veteran actor Tony Booth is to appear in Emmerdale later this year, the ITV soap announced today.

The 75-year-old will play Errol, a mysterious down-and-out who turns to Bob (Tony Audenshaw) when he flees the village to escape his woes. The scenes are to be reminiscent of the classic film It's A Wonderful Life, where things won't be exactly as they seem.

Speaking of his role, Tony said: "I'm really looking forward to filming my episodes for Emmerdale and I think that the scripts are terrific."

"I hope that viewers will warm to my character as much as I have, and be enchanted by his somewhat ethereal quality."

Series Producer Kathleen Beedles added: "We are thrilled to welcome such a popular and respected actor such as Tony to the show.

"He is the perfect choice for this storyline, which is sure to charm and captivate viewers both young and old."

Tony has previously appeared in the classic 'Til Death Us Do Part and recently ITV's technological drama Mobile.

The actor starts filming next month with the episodes scheduled to broadcast in May.