Grab those tissues EastEnders fans and prepare for one of the most emotionally-charged weeks in Walford history, as previewed in my new spoiler pictures, as Martin Fowler (James Bye) is laid to rest.
The beloved market trader perished in the wake of the fire at the Queen Vic during the BBC One’s 40th anniversary week, just moments after confessing his feelings for Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner).
One a month later and the Square is still in mourning, with next week seeing the community gathering together to pay their respects to the legendary fruit and veg stall holder.
With the funeral looming, Stacey stages quite a return following her getaway to stay with Sean (Rob Kazinsky), rocking up in Walford drunk.
Sonia Fowler (Natalie Cassidy) desperately tries to sober her up in time while Lily (Lillia Turner) has a go at her mum for leaving her to look after everything in her absence.
Across the Square, Vicki (Alice Haig) and Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) are distraught, with Ross (Alex Walkinshaw) offering to go with the former to the service. Sharon isn’t sure about such a thing, given Alfie Moon’s (Shane Richie) animosity towards him.
Later, Martin is laid to rest, with Stacey, Sonia, Ruby Allen (Louisa Lytton) and Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) all fighting tears during the emotional service.
After the funeral, Ruby struggles to contain her anger towards Stacey and, at the wake, emotions boil over as a heated confrontation ensues – with revelations aplenty.
If that wasn’t enough trauma for one week, Stacey is then left reeling to learn that Martin’s stall – his beloved pride and joy – has been destroyed in a fire.
It’s set to be a devastating – albeit unmissable – week!
