EastEnders' Linda Carter issues warning to Dean as she gains local support

Dean maintained his lies that he was innocent of attacking Linda several years earlier, and explained that he was back to be close to his unwell daughter, Jade.

Linda was furious to learn that Dean was setting up a business with Ian (Adam Woodyatt) and Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), and she confronted the pair in the café.

Standing in solidarity with Linda were fellow survivors Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty) and Ian's mum Kathy Cotton (Gillian Taylforth).

While Ian dared to point out to Linda that Dean had not been found guilty of rape and attempted rape, Cindy was more sheepish, and she ordered Ian to join her in a meeting with Dean to try and quash their deal.

Dean was, of course, unwilling to backtrack, and Ian and Cindy were forced to keep to the contract.

Meanwhile, Linda was further supported by best friend Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean), mum Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe) and her fiancé George Knight (Colin Salmon), and George's kind-hearted daughters Anna (Molly Rainford) and Gina (Francesca Henry).

The clan rallied round to bring the locals together at the pub, knowing that Linda would be feeling the loss of beloved soulmate and rock Mick (Danny Dyer) at this time. Bolstered by her friends' support, Linda found the strength to stand up to Dean.

"You've picked the wrong woman to have a fight with," Linda declared. But will Dean be run out of Albert Square, or stick around long enough to end up the murder victim this Christmas?

Anyone affected by Linda's story can find support by visiting Rape Crisis, or calling the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line on 0808 500 2222.

Read more:

• EastEnders winter preview 2023: Chris Clenshaw on Christmas, exits, returns
• EastEnders boss explains Dean Wicks return to Walford in Halloween shock
• EastEnders boss teases "huge consequences" for Reiss Colwell lie
• EastEnders' Lauren Branning "won’t be returning on her own", teases soap boss
• EastEnders confirms festive "miracle" for Whitney Dean and Zack Hudson

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