AN EASTENDERS legend has touchingly shared a moving tribute after the death of her longtime pal.
Taking to Instagram on Friday, Gillian Wright, who plays the role of Jean Slater in EastEnders, revealed a close friend had sadly passed away.
Gillian shared a sweet photo of her posing with her late pal, Pat Walker, and detailed their friendship in the caption.
She explained how they met and became friends while doing their degrees together at university.
Gillian then touched on what they had in common and the things they would do together.
In the caption, the soap star penned: “The Mr Pat Walker. And me.
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“We met & played, adventured & laughed through our degree together, and have played and laughed, had silences, talked and walked and worked together ever since.
“Books, travels, theatre, cinema, music… stories.
“Today I was privileged to be among a throng of people saying goodbye.”
She continued: “He really made a difference to so many peoples lives. A grumpy, sarcastic, comic.
“Why am I posting this? Because I want the big wide world to know… I was lucky enough to be a small part of this man’s life! And I found out today…he was proud of me.”
Fans and friends flocked to the comments to support the soap star amid her grief.
“What a beautiful salute. Sending all love to you,” said one.
“To be even just a small cog in someone elses wheel, and for them to proud of you for being that small cog, and making difference in their wheel, is just amazing,” penned another.
A third then said: “What a lovely tribute to him, many memories shared between you. Sending love.”
While a fourth wrote: “So sorry for your loss. Sounds like a lovely man! Xx.”
And a fifth penned: “Sorry for the loss of your dear friend Gillian. Hope your memories you shared are a comfort to you.”
Pat sadly died earlier this month after short illness, according to Your Harlow.
He worked at Burnt Mill school as an English and Drama teacher as well as a football coach and scout.
A spokesperson for Burnt Mill Academy said “Pat was a much-loved teacher and leader at Burnt Mill for over 30 years.
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“The warmth and care that continue to permeate Burnt Mill stand as a lasting legacy of a man who gave so much to shaping its culture and values.”
They later concluded their tribute by saying: “All the staff and friends at Burnt Mill and across the Trust extend their deepest condolences to Pat’s family. He will be remembered with great respect, gratitude, and affection.”
