Bracknell made history with her role as British soap’s first lesbian character in Emmerdale, which she starred in for 16 years from December 1989.

As well as her other TV credits mentioned in her manager’s statement, Bracknell appeared in stage plays including Gaslight and Strangers On A Train.

In October 2016, aged 52, Bracknell revealed she had been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.

Talking in February on ITV’s Loose Women she said she had a positive outlook on life and was not fearful despite her diagnosis.

She said she had formed a “relationship” with her cancer to try to understand it.

Bracknell also revealed on the show that she was taking a new medication she hoped would give her a longer life expectancy, however in August this year she revealed her cancer treatment has stopped working.

John Whiston, managing director of continuing drama and head of ITV in the North, said: “Everyone on Emmerdale is very sad to hear of the death of Leah Bracknell. Leah was a hugely popular member of the Emmerdale cast for over 16 years. During that time she featured in some of the show’s most high profile and explosive plots and always delivered a pitch perfect performance.

“Zoe Tate was one of soaps first lesbian characters and Leah made sure the character was both exciting and credible. Leah herself was a very generous and caring colleague, much loved by cast and crew alike.”

Additional reporting by PA