Emmerdale cast praises show ahead of episode 10,000

Members of the cast of Emmerdale have praised the show's impact ahead of its 10,000th episode.

The ITV soap, which is filmed in Leeds, first aired on 16 October 1972.

It was originally commissioned for just 26 episodes but episode 10,000 will air later.

Actor Ash Palmisciano, who plays Emmerdale's first transgender character, Matty Barton, said: "To play such a current role, it's amazing and something I always wanted to do."

The 34-year-old, who joined the cast six years ago, told BBC Radio Leeds: "It still feels a bit surreal now."

The show airs six nights a week, pulling in an average audience of 4.1m and screens in seven countries, according to head of production, Nader Mabadi.

It is filmed at various locations across Leeds, including the Harewood Estate, and at studios on Kirkstall Road and Burley Road.

"It's celebrating Yorkshire, celebrating people and tackling real stories, problems and concerns," said Mabadi.

One recent storyline covered baby Evan Fletcher being diagnosed with leukaemia, while others have included domestic abuse and depression.

Claire King, who plays Kim Tate on the show, told BBC Radio York: "This is what goes on in real life.

"Emmerdale is very good at following it through and getting a true reflection of what happens."

Palmisciano said the cast was "lucky" to be able to tell "real stories" that "happen to real people".

"That's just such a privilege," he added.

Mark Charnock, who has played Marlon Dingle in Emmerdale for 27 years, described working on the show as a "very long streak of luck" and the 350-strong staff team as "like a family".

"I wouldn't have changed a minute of it," he added.