Mexborough-born actor Brian pays a moving tribute to friend Patrick Stewart

Actor Brian Blessed has paid a moving tribute to fellow thespian Sir Patrick Stewart who died on Wednesday.

Brian, who was born in Mexborough, was a long-standing friend of the much-loved Star Trek actor.

Writing on Facebook, Brian said: “Patrick and I met as young lads in Yorkshire, on a drama course in Calder Valley.

“He was two years younger than me, but had a maturity beyond his years.

“His mysterious eyes, and reserved demeanor broke open when he smiled, and lit the room.

“Art was woven into his huge heart, and the shared passion bonded us at an early age.

“Little did we know, we had just started our journey, through Shakespeare to the stars.

“Our bond never waned, and whenever we met he would hug me as hard as when we were boys, never afraid to weep at the enormity of his emotions.

“Like myself, he has stood up for vulnerable animals – and many more wonderful things besides.

“We have always been connected, and always shall be.

“I’ll see you up in space, my dearest friend.

“Patrick is not gone but merely on another journey.”

Star of screen and stage Sir Patrick passed away on October 28 of Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia in Los Angeles, aged 86.