Declan Donnelly, TV star, says he is heartbroken by the loss of his brother, a priest.
After a brief illness, Father Dermott McDonnelly, 55, died in hospital. It was believed that he had been a priest for thirty years.
Declan, an ITV presenter, tweeted: "We're all beyond devastated."
Fr Donnelly officiated in 2015 at the Newcastle wedding of Ali Astall, his famous brother. The ceremony was attended by a lot of celebrities.
His death was described by the Diocese of Hexham & Newcastle as a "great shock."
It released the following statement: "It is with great sorrow that we must inform you about Fr Dermott McDonnelly's passing. He died peacefully in hospital this afternoon."
"Please pray for his repose and keep his family, particularly his mother, in you prayers during this difficult time."
Hexham and Newcastle Bishop Robert Byrne stated that he will be missed by the diocese because of his sterling work with youth at both a national and diocesan level.
Messages wishing Fr. Donnelly well were posted earlier online after Catholic parishes in England announced via Facebook that he was admitted to hospital.
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