Emmerdale has confirmed that it called off filming for the day on Thursday following the death of a crew member.

In a statement, the soap paid its respects to the unnamed crew member and said that "as a mark of respect", production was temporarily halted after the news filtered through to set.

"We can confirm an Emmerdale crew member has very sadly passed away," the statement said. "Our sincerest and heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends and loved ones of our colleague.

"As a mark of respect, we have stood filming down for today.

"We'd like to abide by the family's wishes for privacy at this very sad time and we'd ask the media to be respectful of this."

Filming on the ITV soap, which is currently shooting episodes for broadcast in May and June, is thought to have resumed on Friday morning.