Shaun Williamson has made a sensational comeback as Barry Evans in EastEnders flashback scenes with Nigel Bates

Shaun Williamson has made a triumphant return to EastEnders, reprising his role as Barry Evans.

Regular viewers of the BBC soap will know that Nigel Bates, portrayed by Paul Bradley, has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia. On Monday (December 22), Walford’s residents got into the Christmas spirit as they gathered at the community centre to watch Nigel’s festive film.

However, after overhearing a heated discussion between his wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) and close mate Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) about how to handle his worsening condition, he sought solace in The Queen Vic.