EASTENDERS

SILENT NIGHT? NOT

WITH MAX RETURNING

The nagging women of Walford are out in force this festive season, with both Shirley and Denise having a go at Phil following his visit to Peggy’s grave (as entertainment, it beats the last night of the Walford Players’ Christmas Show). And so, Livergate drags on. With Phil’s health deteriorating, the Mitchells realise this might be his last Christmas (he, at least, will be grateful for that). As the family sit down for the perfect Christmas dinner, will this finally be the year when the Mitchells make it to the pudding? One can but hope. And dream.

Everyone else is planning a peaceful Christmas, but with all the hidden secrets, that’s as likely as an Armani-clad Santa. To top all the tension, Max returns (pictured, with Abi and Lauren), raising the question of ‘Why?’ It seems revenge is on the menu, and is he really out to build bridges? When it comes to bridge construction, Bob the Builder would be a better port of call.

It’s also a stressful time for the Mitchell sisters, when Ronnie tells Roxy off for her drunken behaviour. At Ronnie’s hen party, Roxy drops another spanner in the works and, after hearing Aunt Sal reminisce about Peggy, Ronnie reassesses her relationship with her sister. Yes, the Ghost of Peggy Past (and Passed) is present this year. And what better time of year to sit around a log fire, roasting chestnuts and chatting about someone who committed suicide.