BETH Cordingly has begged Emmerdale viewers not to treat one of her co-stars badly if they see him in person.

Nick Day has been playing the abusive Anthony Fox on the ITV soap, and Beth is concerned that the actor might receive abuse on behalf of his evil character from overly zealous fans.

In the world of the Dales, Beth is the face of Ruby Fox-Miligan, the daughter that Anthony sexually assaulted through many of her teenage years.

Anthony was recently battered to death for his horrific abuse on the soap.

Although this means Ruby is finally free from reminders of her tormenter, the actress who plays her is clearly worried that Emmerdale fans might take the plotline too much to heart and attack Nick as a result.

She aired her concerns in an Instagram post, saying: “In case anyone is under any illusions I just want to stress what a beautiful man Nick Day is, in real life.

“We were very lucky to have an actor of his calibre and talent playing my father, Anthony, in Emmerdale.

“It wasn’t an easy role for anyone to take on and he found playing this person extremely challenging.

She went on to add that she loved acting alongside Nick, sharing: “It was an emotional experience requiring a lot of trust and a lot of love. He’s a gem.

“If you see him in the street please remember he’s NOT Anthony.

“I’m sure you all will – so forgive me for sounding patronising – I just wanted to say.

“Sometimes, as actors, we need a little bit of protection when we put ourselves out there telling difficult stories that need to be told.”

Emmerdale reveals Ruby Fox-Miligan’s harrowing past in haunting flashback scenes

The post was written alongside a series of photos where Beth could be seen putting her arms around Nick on set.

Beth’s followers were quick to praise Nick’s acting skills, and reassure her that they will not confuse him with his character.

One pointed out: “If an actor is really hated on set you know they’ve played a blinder … it’s a very powerful story line which made my skin crawl…. He’s fantastic!

“I hope people remember he’s only acting the part … you both deserve an award.”

Another added: “He has done an astounding job because watching him 1000% made my skin crawl, but only a talented actor could do that! I love that you have put this out there as a gentle reminder.”

A third agreed: “So nice of you to say this. I echo what many have said. I hated Anthony, he made my skin crawl.

“Proving what a fantastic and brave actor Nick Day is, it can’t be easy to play a character like this. Another hard hitting storyline done well by Emmerdale.”