Stenson "honoured" over 'Oaks reaction

Hollyoaks star Carley Stenson has thanked fans for their support following Steph Roach's death scene.

Last night's episode of the Channel 4 soap saw the terminally-ill waitress lose her life in the Il Gnosh fire after she refused to leave the burning building and declared that she was ready to die.

The emotional scenes marked the end of Stenson's ten-year stint in the role of Steph, who was among the show's longest-running characters.

Responding to fans who praised the episode on Twitter yesterday evening, the actress commented: "I am so honoured by all your lovely messages! Really am! Thank you so much, it means a lot."

Later, she added: "I'm heartbroken watching my beautiful Hollyoaks family act their little socks off, knowing I'll never be a part of that again, miss and love them."

Anthony Quinlan, who plays Steph's husband Gilly, also expressed gratitude to fans after spotting that his character's name had become a trending topic on Twitter for a second consecutive night.

He told his online followers: "Cheers for all the tweets again tonight! So glad that the ep had the impact that was desired! Buzzing Gilly is trended again! Cheers guys."

Stenson announced her decision to quit Hollyoaks back in June. She is now focusing on a career in musical theatre and is currently appearing in a West End production of Legally Blonde: The Musical.