Tony Booth to star in Emmerdale

Tony Blair's father-in-law Tony Booth has signed up to appear in Emmerdale.

The 75-year-old actor father of Cherie Blair will play 'mysterious down-and-out Errol' in episodes to be filmed next month.

In the scenes, broadcast in May, Errol befriends a desperate Bob Hope, played by Tony Audenshaw, who has fled the village to escape his woes.

Bob comes to question whether Errol really exists, as no one else has seen him.

Soap bosses describe the scenes featuring Errol as 'magical' and reminiscent of classic film It's A Wonderful Life.

Tony, the father of eight children and now with fourth wife Stephanie Buckley, was married to the late Coronation Street icon Pat Phoenix before she died.

The Liverpudlian shot to fame as Alf Garnett's son-in-law in the 60s sitcom Till Death Us Do Part.

In recent years he has appeared in The Bill and as a tramp in EastEnders.

Tony, who is expected to appear in up to seven episodes, 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."

Emmerdale series producer Kathleen Beedles said: "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."