Actor Clive Hornby, best known for playing devoted family man and farmer Jack Sugden in Emmerdale, passed away last night at the age of 63.

Clive was born and grew up in Liverpool and started out as an accounts clerk before enjoying success as a drummer with pop group The Dennisons in the 1960s. The band were compared to and played on the same bill as The Beatles at Liverpool’s famous Cavern Club. Later, the group split to pursue other projects and Clive turned his attention to acting, attending the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art before going into repertory theatre.

Clive appeared in various television productions including the army sitcom Get Some In, Gerry Anderson’s Space 1999 and Minder alongside George Cole. He first appeared in Emmerdale on 19 February 1980. He was initially offered a three month contract as farmer Jack Sugden, a character who returned to the village after previously being played by Andrew Burt. An astonishing 28 years later after Jack’s three marriages and five children, Clive remained the longest serving cast member in Emmerdale’s history.

Anita Turner, Series Producer, Emmerdale says “This is a devastating loss and we are all deeply saddened. Clive will be greatly missed by everyone who has worked with him on Emmerdale during the past 28 years. He was a hugely popular and well-respected member of cast and a terrific actor. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”