Emmerdale’s Vanessa Woodfield receives worrying news as she is diagnosed with bowel cancer

Vanessa Woodfield was overcome with shock in Monday’s episode of Emmerdale after it was revealed she has bowel cancer.

Her worrying news was disclosed to the viewers by Pierce Harris (Jonathan Wrather) who is currently holding her hostage. 

Vanessa (Michelle Hardwick) was unable to share the devastating news with her friends and family, with Pierce the only other person aware of her diagnosis.

The hard-hitting storyline will play out on Emmerdale over the coming months as Vanessa comes to terms with her diagnosis and symptoms, and shares her concerns and undergoes extensive treatment.

Actress Michelle admitted the plot is a tough one for her as a performer and revealed the show has been working with a charity to ensure a realistic portrayal. 

She said: ‘This is such a challenging storyline, but we’ve been working closely with Bowel Cancer UK, who have been enormously helpful to me in researching Vanessa’s symptoms and treatment. I hope to do Vanessa’s story justice. 

‘I was actually really shocked to learn that bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK and the second biggest cancer killer, but diagnosed early is treatable.’

Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive at Bowel Cancer UK, said: ‘We greatly appreciated the opportunity to work with the Emmerdale team on this important storyline. 

‘While everyone’s experience of diagnosis is different, it is vital that Vanessa’s story is as accurate as possible.

‘Although bowel cancer is more common in the over 50s, it can affect people of all ages. More than 2,500 people under 50, like Vanessa, are diagnosed with the disease in the UK every year. 

‘This storyline will help to raise awareness of bowel cancer, and we hope it encourages viewers to recognise the symptoms and visit their GP if they’re concerned.’

Vanessa has been a series regular on Emmerdale since her first appearance in 2012, with Michelle describing the role as her ‘dream job’.

News of Michelle’s new storyline comes a few months after the actress tied the knot with soap producer Kate Brooks at Graceland in Memphis in September.

The TV star took to Instagram at the time to share a first look at their Elvis Presley-inspired nuptials.

She wrote: ‘In over 100 degrees heat, on Tuesday 10th September, I became Mrs Brooks ❤️ #graceland #chapelinthewoods #memphis #nextstopnashville.’