Ender of Telly writer Tony, 67

[carmelina]

THE man who created EastEnders died yesterday at the age of 67.

Tony Holland devised long-running BBC soap by modelling characters on his family.

He died in a London hospital after being unwell for some time.

EastEnders first went out in 1985 and is still the BBC’s biggest show in the weekly ratings.

Tony wrote scripts and was also involved in casting big names like Wendy Richard, 64, who played Pauline Fowler. He won a special achievement gong at the British Soap Awards in 2002.

Last night BBC creative director Alan Yentob said: “Tony was intimately involved in every aspect of the show for the first four years – including the classic Christmas episode featuring Dirty Den and Angie in 1986.”

John Yorke, controller of BBC drama, added: “Tony’s contribution to popular drama and BBC1 is immeasurable.”

[Skylace]

Not very old at all. It's a shame, he had a big influence. I am sure he will be missed.

[11antoniacourt]

I say let us raise our glasses for the man who created EastEnders and may he rest in peace.

[eefanincan]