‘EastEnders’ Spoilers: Ian Lavender To Return As Derek Harkinson

He was last seen in Walford in 2005.

‘EastEnders’ fans are set to get a blast from the past, as it’s been revealed that Ian Lavender will be reprising his role as Derek Harkinson.

Derek was last seen in Walford back in 2005, and viewers will see him return this month.

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Ian as Derek
BBC Pictures

He’ll then appear in a handful of episodes over the festive season, and has shared his excitement, stating: “It was a lovely surprise to be back and I had a great time.

“It was brilliant to work with some old friends again, especially those who I only briefly got to work with before.”

Derek was a good family friend of the late Pauline Fowler, and became a father figure to her son Martin.

While bosses are keeping tight-lipped on how he’ll be involved in the Christmas storylines, Derek’s return will see him reconnect with Martin.

It’s been quite the year for soap comebacks, and Albert Square also welcomed back Peggy and Grant Mitchell.

Over in ‘Hollyoaks’, returning faces have included Jude Cunningham and Warren Fox, while ‘Corrie’ villain Pat Phelan also reappeared.

Catch up on all the latest soap news and spoilers here.