In tonight’s episode of Emmerdale, Tom sets his sights on a different target

– picking on Paddy in an attempt to get his job back. While it’s nice to see Tom

go after someone who isn’t a young child or his grieving, mentally unwell ex-wife

for once, it’s another nasty move from the village’s resident manipulator. This comes as Rhona, Vanessa and Paddy suspended him from work over Belle’s allegations of abuse. All completely true, of course, but Tom continues to insist upon his innocence to anyone who will listen.

And he’s not taking news of his suspension lying down either, first threatening to sue for unfair dismissal, and now attempting to blackmail Paddy into relenting. Demanding his job back, Tom threatens to air all the vets’ dirty laundry in public.

It’s the latest development in a storyline which shows little sign of slowing down. And, with Tom repeatedly managing to evade the law (and Dingle retribution) his comeuppance has been a long time coming.

When – and how – will all this end?

When is Tom leaving Emmerdale?

Soap bosses revealed earlier this month that the end of the storyline will air in December. Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “When we first embarked on this journey we knew we wanted to show domestic abuse, coercive control and manipulation in all its guises.

“We knew from the outset that Belle would need some sort of closure on Tom and we know our Emmerdale audience always look forward to our villains getting their comeuppance. We don’t want to spoil the outcome of this story and reveal what will happen to Tom, but needless to say, Belle’s going to be in a much better place by this Christmas.”

How will Tom King leave?

The exact circumstances behind Tom’s exit remain unknown, although fans have long speculated that he might exit the village in a coffin. While there are several ways he could get his comeuppance, many are hoping that he faces real justice – inside a prison cell.

What is known is that the story will involve Loose Woman and ex-Corrie star Denise Welch, who is joining the soap to bring Tom’s story to a close. Denise will play a woman on the jury when Belle takes Tom on in court.

TV stars Charles Dale and Jack Ellis will also join the all-star cast for the episode – an hour-long special which highlights the real-life voices of domestic violence survivors.

How do you want to see Tom go?