Emmerdale: Ashley Thomas' dementia to be placed under microscope in another special
EMMERDALE is planning another episode focused on dementia sufferer Ashley Thomas.
Ashley Thomas asks 'who's Laurel?' in Emmerdale
Last month, the soap won praise from dementia charities after it aired a special episode of the soap shown from Ashley's (played by John Middleton) perspective.
Using special camera angles, time-jumps and different actors to play established characters, viewers were able to get an insight into the former vicar's confused state.
Emmerdale producer Iain MacLeod revealed in a question and answer session with fans on Friday that they could expect to see another episode focused on Ashley.
One viewer asked: "What's next for the Ashley story?"
Emmerdale bosses are planning another special episode for Ashley Thomas' dementia storyline
Emmerdale producer Iain MacLeod answered Emmerdale fans' questions about upcoming stories
There's an interesting episode in Ashley's story
Iain replied: "There's an interesting episode in Ashley's story that you'll get to see before the summer."
In a separate Instagram post Iain discussed how Ashley's storyline might progress.
He explained: "One of the things we're trying to do between now and the summer is find ways to make this a joyful story.
John Middleton has won praise for his portrayal of Ashley, whose health is steadily declining
Producer Iain said he wants to find a way to make the story joyful as well as heartbreaking
"Something that really warms the cockles as well as breaking your heart."
Actor John is expected to leave the soap this year, with a departure date still unknown.
Emmerdale continues tomorrow night at 7pm on ITV.