The actress was one of the many BBC soap stars to pay their respects to the Charlie Slater actor

EastEnders star Michelle Ryan has shared a heartwarming memory with Derek Martin in a second tribute to the late Charlie Slater actor, who she called ‘protective’.

It was announced over the weekend that Derek passed away at the age of 92 on Saturday (March 10). A statement from his family, shared by his agent Sharon Henry, said: “Derek wasn’t just a dad to us he was a friend and supported us through our highs and lows.

“He never stopped learning, he loved meeting people and was always generous with his time. We both miss him terribly. The family ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.”

Derek played the role of Kat Slater’s father Charlie on the BBC soap between 2000 and 2011, and made guest appearances in the years following that, with his character featuring in a number of major storylines.

The actor’s final EastEnders appearance was in 2016, with his character suffering a fatal heart attack as Kat told him she forgave him for the trauma she suffered at the hands of his brother growing up.

Since news of Derek’s passing broke, a number of stars from the Albert Square programme have rushed to pay their respects. One of them was Michelle Ryan, who plays Charlie’s granddaughter Zoe Slater on EastEnders.

First taking to Instagram on Monday (January 12), Michelle, who returned to Walford last year, shared a selfie of her looking upset. She wrote: “So sad to hear the news that Derek Martin has passed away.

“He was a such a friendly man, always ready with a story and practical advice, for example how weak tea is good for shock. RIP Derek. Condolences to his friends and family.”

Returning to Instagram on Tuesday (January 13), Michelle posted a photo of her and Derek together on the EastEnders set from shortly after the Slaters arrived on the programme over 25 years ago.

“This is a lovely memory of Derek and I on the Albert Square set on a summers day in 2000, before the Slaters launched onto the screen for the first time. Charlie was always very protective of his girls, especially the youngest Zoe. #derekmartin,” she said.

The comments section of Michelle’s post saw a host of the actress’ fans sending her support and sharing their own memories of Derek from over the years.

@cherby77 said: “So sorry Michelle! So incredibly sad he was a great actor and an Eastenders legend!” @mjfouldespoetry added: “Awww wonderful photo and happy memories.”

@dave_lister86 wrote: “Such a lovely photo of the pair of you, I know he’s super proud of you and all his on screen girls.” @poplucy2025 stated: “Aww you guys look lovely together and we will miss him xxx I am a big fan of the slaters.”

@dsalt_1975 commented: “THE great parental father figure for the Slaters back in the day. He had the heart. He’s really etched into our memories, but particularly you and and the cast.” @neonnat25 posted: “Sending You and all the cast and crew of EastEnders, he will be loved and missed lots.”