Emmerdale’s Beth Cordingly has hit back at a troll, who shared a harsh comment on newcomer Bradley Riches’ Instagram.

Former Heartstopper star Bradley has been cast in the ITV soap as Lewis. Not much is known about the character right now, but he has already started filming.

‘I’m beyond excited to be joining Emmerdale!’ Bradley said when his casting was announced.

‘It’s a real bucket list moment for me, especially since it was my grandad’s favourite soap, I just know he’d be over the moon.

‘Everyone has been so lovely and welcoming, and the village is even more amazing in real life. I absolutely love my character (though I can’t spill too much just yet!), and I’m just so grateful for this opportunity.

‘I can’t wait for everyone to see what’s in store…’

Just recently, Bradley took to Instagram to share a number of pictures behind the scenes at Emmerdale.

Among the comments, a user of Instagram felt the need to share a particularly horrible message to Bradley about his acting career and how he’s ‘acting as if you are a big deal’.

Fortunately though, co-star and all-round legend Beth Cordingly was on hand to respond.

She wrote: ‘I don’t think he’s acting like that at all. I think he’s being very humble and grateful and gorgeous about it all. And who cares if you’ve never heard of him? He doesn’t. And nor do we.

Beth added: ‘We love him. That’s why we are following his page. So if you’d like to be unkind, please can you do it somewhere else, not on his page. (On my page is fine. I’m old and used to it. And I’ll just block you anyway).’

Love her.

Bradley has sadly already been in a position where he’s had to respond to more trolls, who have sent him homophobic and ableist messages.

Bradley is playing a character called Lewis (Picture: ITV)

On social media, he said: ‘But let’s talk real for a second. Some of the comments and messages I’ve received are vile. Too many people are quick to judge me regarding my sexuality or being autistic, without thinking about the impact of their words.

‘Before you speak, ask yourself: Do I really need to say this? Kindness costs nothing, but mean comments and hiding behind your screens says aLOT about you.

‘But lucky for you I won’t be behind a screen… I will be on YOUR SCREEN! If you’re mad stay mad! See you soon x.’