Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) has an important mission in EastEnders next week – and succeeding isn’t going to be easy.

Nigel Bates’ (Paul Bradley) return to Walford last year started a heart-breaking story that’s seen him faced with rapidly worsening young-onset dementia.

Reuniting with old friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), the two bonded as they each faced their own mental health struggles. When a period of ill-mental health and strong suicide ideation led Phil to seek help in a psychiatric facility, he became Nigel’s full-time carer when he returned home.

Julie (Karen Henthorn), Nigel’s wife later joined him in Walford and after a difficult period of clashing with Phil over Nigel’s care, they eventually settled into a rhythm.

Nigel has been busy in recent weeks looking at his rediscovered film script.

The creation of the film is topic of conversation between Billy and Lexi Pearce (Isabella Brown) next week, as the youngster asks Billy to persuade Phil to take part in the film.

Given the fact Phil would much rather sit and watch Nigel’s creation rather than act in it, getting him to say yes is going to be quite the challenge.

Will Phil agree to take part?

The development comes ahead of two returns to the BBC One soap, which will feature in an instalment about Nigel’s storyline.

A special episode of the BBC One soap sees Nigel’s memories and altered reality take him back to the 1990s.

Pat Evans (Pam St Clement), who was controversially killed off in 2012, returns to The Queen Vic to help him when his dementia symptoms intensify following an emotional evening at his festive film screening.

Barry (Shaun Williamson) will also appear alongside stepmum Pat when Nigel’s dementia symptoms increase and, although their relationship was fraught in the land of the living, the duo put aside their differences to help Nigel.

‘It was a complete shock getting the call to go back to Albert Square, but so exciting!,’ actor Shaun said on reprising his legendary role.

‘I have to admit to a few nerves (loads!) when I walked back onto the set of The Queen Victoria, but it was so great to work with old friends and colleagues on such a brilliant episode.

‘Just goes to show, you never know what’s around the corner!’

Ben Wadey, EastEnders’ Executive Producer. added: ‘I’m delighted to welcome Shaun Williamson back to EastEnders for Nigel’s special episode.