© Collins Photo Agency Gerard McSorley

An arrest warrant has been issued for well-known actor Gerard McSorley after he failed to turn up in court to face a series of charges.

The Father Ted actor, best known for playing Fr Todd Unctious in the popular comedy series, was due to appear at Letterkenny District Court in Co Donegal after being arrested on November 26 last over a breach of the peace.

The 69-year-old actor had been taken to Letterkenny Garda station after allegedly engaging in threatening, insulting or abusive behaviour.

While at the station, it's claimed, McSorley continued to breach the peace.

He is also charged with damaging property while in the cell at Letterkenny Garda Station.

© Gareth Chaney/Collins Gerard McSorley Details of the second charge against the actor are revealed in the charge sheets.

It alleges McSorley consistently spat at the cell door.

The charge reads "(You) did without lawful excuse damage property, to with, cell door by constantly spitting on it during your stay in Garda custody and covering same in saliva resulting in the cell having to be cleaned belonging to Chief Superintendent of Letterkenny Garda station."

McSorley, with an address at Trinity Court, Newtowncunningham, Co Donegal, did not appear in court to answer the charges.

No legal representations were made on his behalf when the case was called before Judge Paul Kelly.

Judge Kelly issued a bench warrant for McSorley's arrest.

The actor, who has appeared in several films and TV plays, has also appeared in many well-known films including Braveheart, Veronica Guerin and Angela's Ashes.

He is originally from Omagh in Co Tyrone but has been living in Co Donegal for many years.

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