Emmerdale's Gemma Oaten reveals father Dennis's prostate cancer is back 'with a vengance' in emotional post

Former Emmerdale star Gemma Oaten has revealed her father's prostate cancer has returned, in an emotional post on social media.

The actress, who's best known for playing Rachel Breckle on ITV's hit show Emmerdale, took to social media to share the sad news with her fans and followers.

Writing alongside a picture of her and her 70-year-old dad, Dennis, the star wrote: 'Overwhelmed by the love and support of this man. My Dad. He is just one (I'm fortunate to have many sw) of the most amazing men In my life.'

Gemma continued to write that the cancer has returned, but that her dad is a fighter.

'He is all. My world. I think I'm allowed to say now that prostate cancer is back again with avengance and pushing to lymph nodes. But. BUT. That's OK, because this man, my Dad, Is a fighter. Praying for all good outcomes for all good people,' she said on Instagram.

After making the heartbreaking revelation, the 33-year-old received many comments of support and well wishes to her dad and their family.

One said: 'So sorry to hear about your dad Gemma. Sending lots of love & positive thoughts to you & your family 💜'

A second wrote: 'All the best of wishes to your Dad & the strength to fight it again (I know I've been there) & love to you & your mum your sometimes the forgotten ones xx.'

Gemma, who's originally from Hull, also posted of picture of her and her dad on his birthday.

Alongside the sweet snap, she wrote: 'Such a lovely day for dad's birthday. Love you mum @margoaten And dad more than words can say. Ruby and I currently bawling our eyes out on the train. Saying goodbye never gets easier.'

Gemma's dad was first diagnosed with the condition in 2011. After chemotherapy, radiotherapy and a new clinical trial, Dennis was told last year that his cancer was in remission.