TV Stars' son joins the Dales

Shane Richie and Coleen Nolan's son has been cast...

17:54 05 July 2010

A new face is set to join Emmerdale, it has been announced.

Jake Roche is following in the starry footsteps of his mum Coleen Nolan and dad Shane Richie to start a career in TV.

Roche, 17, whose father plays TV favourite Alfie Moon in rival soap EastEnders, has been cast in the ITV series.

The 17-year-old will play popular college boy Isaac and will be a new love interest for shy teenager Hannah Barton (Grace Cassidy).

The romance will be a welcome distraction for Hannah, as her drug addict sister Holly (Sophie Powles) is putting her family through hell.

Speaking of the role, Roche said: "I am thrilled to be part of such a great team. Everyone has made me feel so welcome.

"After watching Emmerdale for years on TV, I still have to pinch myself on set as it's all very surreal.

"My family have been very supportive as always and we all can't wait to see my first episode."

Series producer Gavin Blyth added: "Jake is a great addition to the cast. Isaac will be a fun character who will offer some light relief for Hannah as her family face their darkest hour."

Loose Women star Nolan and actor Richie married in the 1990. They had two sons together, Shane and Jake, before their divorce nine years later.

Soap fans can see the new character Isaac on screen in August.