ITV Emmerdale fans all have same demand after surprise visitor shows up for Zak Dingle's funeral

Emmerdale enthusiasts are clamouring for the upgrade of a well-liked guest character to full-time status following his endearing appearance in Thursday's episode (17 October).

In the latest trip to the Dales, viewers followed the preparations for Zak Dingle's (played by Steve Halliwell) funeral as his loved ones came together to honour their family head with a grand send-off.

Just before the ceremony began, the Dingles congregated outside The Woolpack while Sam (James Hooton), Cain (Jeff Hordley), Marlon (Mark Charnock), and Vinny (Bradley Johnson) got ready to transport Zaks's coffin inside the pub.

However, PC Swirling (Andy Moore) drove up unexpectedly, making Belle worry about potential trouble.

Peering at the officer, Charity (Emma Atkins) remarked with surprise: "I reckon he would have loved having the law here. It's like he planned it himself", reports Leeds Live.

Approaching PC Swirling tentatively, Belle (Eden Taylor-Draper) said: "Surely, you don't wanna bother us. Not today."

Vinny quickly added his plea: "I mean, you can see it's a family funeral", to deter the copper from making any arrests.

But PC Swirling quickly allayed their fears, solemnly stating: "Just come to pay me respects, I promise."

Their exchange was cut short when Sam summoned Vinny to help carry Zak's casket from the van. Later on, the episode brought another unexpected moment as Tina Dingle (Samantha Power) returned, marking her farewell to her father after 28 years.

PC Mike Swirling, portrayed by the talented actor Moore, has been a regular feature on the ITV series since 2004, often appearing to deal with the legal issues of the local residents.

Swirling, a key character in Emmerdale due to his recurring appearances, is usually seen interacting with the Dingles and other notorious villagers.

Following his visit to bid farewell to Zak on Thursday, fans of Emmerdale are eager to see more of this character in upcoming episodes.

One soap enthusiast took to Facebook to express: "AHH it was nice seeing PC Swirling showing his respects."

Another responded: "That was lovely that he turned up as a mark of respect for Zac. They should use him more often as he's popular with the public."

A third simply added: "I like him" while another echoed: "Love him."

"Yes it was he did well so did all the actors and writers well done you all got it just right," another fan praised.

Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7:30pm on ITV and ITVX