Emmerdale has confirmed that it has signed up an 80s pop icon for a surprise Christmas cameo that will leave Lydia Dingle very impressed.

Emmerdale is preparing to welcome a very special guest to the village as part of a major surprise for resident Lydia Dingle.

Actor Jason Donovan has confirmed he will be making a cameo appearance in the ITV soap, which is set to air later this year.

Despite being a soap legend himself, having captured hearts as Scott Robinson in Neighbours during the Eighties, Jason will actually appear on the programme as himself.

Filming has already been completed on the Emmerdale set and the scene will feature Jason performing one of his classic hits to a packed Woolpack as a surprise for Lydia, portrayed by Karen Blick.

During Wednesday’s (November 5) episode of ITV Lorraine, Jason was questioned about his forthcoming appearance as Lorraine asked: “Now don’t tell anyone but are you going into Emmerdale?”, reports the Daily Star.

Jason confirmed: “Well, I got asked. The character Lydia is a bit of a fan so I am going in as myself but don’t tell anyone.”

Lorraine joked: “No, no because no one must know about this and we shouldn’t show any photos to.”

Jason continued: “I was asked to do something around Christmas at the Woolpack. I filmed it a few months back and the cast are brilliant and production is amazing.”

Accidentally revealing a behind-the-scenes secret he added: “I went up to Leeds and just had a great day. I got up and sang ‘To Many Broken Hearts’ which I probably shouldn’t have said either but that’s ok I’ve just done that.”

Jason expressed his excitement about the unexpected cameo, stating: “I’m incredibly excited to have been asked to make a cameo appearance in Emmerdale as myself.

“Filming was great fun and all of the cast and crew were extremely welcoming. Singing in the Woolpack set was definitely an experience I won’t forget.”

Emmerdale’s producer, Laura Shaw, also shared her delight, saying: “We were delighted that Jason agreed to join us for this episode.

“Not only is Lydia Dingle a big fan of his, there was a real buzz on set that day. I hope the viewers enjoy his cameo as much as the Emmerdale family did.”

The special episodes are set to air in the run-up to Christmas in December, and the cameo may leave fans surprised.

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays and Lorraine airs weekdays from 9am on ITV1 and ITVX