As a new dawn breaks in EastEnders next week, it is clear that Walford will never be the same again following the explosive events of the 40th anniversary episodes.
While the drama is still unfolding on screens, fans have been given their first hints of what lies ahead for the locals in the aftermath of the Queen Vic blast, which will continue to send shockwaves through the Square for weeks to come.
Of course, bosses are keeping specific details close to their chests, but we do already know that at least one character is not expected to make it to the end of Thursday’s live episode alive – and the residents are filled with grief when we return to Walford on Monday.
Many are in a high state of emotion as they struggle to process the enormity of the previous week’s tragedy.
As the community tries to pull together and support one another, one family in particular is in need of help from their friends and neighbours.
Meanwhile, another Square resident confides a massive secret to a friend, only to realise they’ve been overheard.
Later, there is a congregation at Harry’s Barn, but the sombre occasion is the catalyst for more drama amongst the grief-stricken locals…
Elsewhere, tensions are running high between Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp), Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) and the rest of the Mitchell clan, and Grant is finding it increasingly difficult to keep his temper in the face of intense scrutiny and criticism over his actions.
Emotions then bubble over during a family breakfast at the café where Grant dishes out some harsh home truths.
After witnessing the confrontation, Yolande Trueman (Angela Wynter) speaks with Nigel and urges him to open up to Grant about his dementia diagnosis – but Grant overhears their exchange and Nigel is forced to share his news.
As Grant struggles with this latest bombshell, a row ensues and he seeks comfort from a familiar face.
However, he is left disappointed when he makes a wrong assumption and later decides it’s time to pack his bags and leave town.
After reuniting with Nigel, Grant offers him the chance to move to Portugal, promising to care for his old friend as his health declines. Touched by the gesture, will Nigel agree?
Over on the other side of the Square, Denise Fox (Diane Parish) is blissfully happy having finally chosen between lover Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) and ex-husband Jack Branning (Scott Maslen).
Fans have been given the chance to decide Denise’s fate as part of the 40th anniversary episodes this week – and while we do not yet know the outcome, Monday’s visit to Walford will see Denise and her new partner agree to tell their families about their relationship.
Denise will be seen gathering the Fox-Truemans at No.20 to reveal all, but they may just have very different reactions depending on the outcome of the viewer vote…
