The Catholic priest brother of Declan Donnelly - of Ant and Dec fame - has died after being "extremely unwell" in hospital.

Last night, the parish for which Fr Dermott Donnelly worked asked parishioners to pray for him. 

The 55-year-old ministered in the north-east of England.

His parish shared the news of his illness on Facebook, telling his followers that he had been admitted to hospital. 

The nature of his illness has not been shared.

A statement from the Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle confirmed his death, saying: "It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Fr Dermott Donnelly who died peacefully this afternoon in hospital.

"This has come as a great shock to all of us. Please pray for the repose of his soul and keep his family, especially his mother, in your prayers at this difficult time. Funeral arrangements will follow when finalised."