'EastEnders' saddened by Woodward passing

The cast and crew of BBC soap EastEnders have expressed their sadness at the death of film and TV legend Edward Woodward.

The 79-year-old passed away today after a long battle with numerous illnesses, including pneumonia.

Earlier this year, Woodward joined the cast of EastEnders for a short stint as Tommy Clifford, a mysterious man from Patrick Trueman's (Rudolph Walker) past.

It was soon revealed that Tommy was responsible for the death of Patrick's fiancée Ruth in the 1950s.

Woodward's final episode of the Walford soap, which aired on April 23, saw Patrick visit Tommy in hospital and finally make peace with him for his actions. Tommy later died with Patrick by his side.

Speaking of Woodward's passing, EastEnders' executive producer Diederick Santer said: "All of us at EastEnders are very sad to learn that Edward has passed away. We were thrilled when he joined us for a stint of six episodes earlier this year. "

They added: "He was a delight to work with, and delivered a characteristically touching and layered performance. Our thoughts are with his family."

Woodward is survived by his wife Michele Dotrice, who starred as Betty Spencer in classic BBC comedy Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em, their daughter Emily, and children Tim, Peter and Sarah from his marriage to Venetia Barrett.

> Edward Woodward dies, aged 79