EASTENDERS has been transformed into a winter wonderland for Christmas – three months early.
Filming for December’s episodes is now well underway on the BBC soap – despite it still being September and distinctly autumnal.
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The BBC soap’s London set has been festooned with festive lights to give it a cheery glow and this year there are two huge Christmas trees.
Pictures show the traditional Christmas tree taking centre stage in Albert Square’s gardens.
And this year there’s a new addition.
In the newly refurbished precinct outside the Prince Albert, another large tree stands, covered in twinkling lights.
The Queen Vic has been covered in lights and seasonal decorations and the only hint that it isn’t the depths of winter is the very healthy looking leaves on the trees.
The famous Walford market has also been transformed.
Multi-coloured string lights sparkle over the stalls and street while the tube bridge also hasn’t escaped being adorned with decorations.
In Albert Square, large snowflakes cover the railings while fairy lights cover the bushes, shrubs and plants, giving it a Christmassy glow.
Bosses have stayed tight-lipped about this year’s Christmas storylines.
While in years past the plots have been obvious – especially with the recent murder flash-forward featuring The Six.
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But this year any storyline could take precedent and with Zoe Slater’s return and her hunt for her missing son, could there be a Christmas reunion on the cards?
Viewers know Zoe gave birth to twins in 2006 while she was away from the Square.
And while she was told her daughter had died, an emotional Zoe rejected her son, insisting he be adopted instead.
But fans are convinced that both children are alive and well and with them now being 19 – now would be the time for them to arrive in Walford looking for their birth mother.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursdays on BBC iPlayer at 6am, and on BBC One at 7.30pm.
