AN Iconic EastEnders character is returning to the soap after almost two decades away from the square.

Clare Bates was last seen in Walford in 2008, but is finally set to come back in 2026 for an emotional storyline.

Portrayed by Gemma Bissix, the actress is reprising the role for a short stint this spring as part of Nigel Bates’ dementia storyline.

The character first appeared on the show back in 1993, returning for a short time in 2008.

And now back for a third return, Clare returns when news of her stepfather Nigel’s worsening dementia reaches her.

The reunion is set to be filled with drama and emotions as the family work through old wounds, while Nigel’s dementia hits home for his loved ones.

Actress Gemma has been appearing in Hollyoaks since her departure from the soap, but says coming back to Albert Square was a “full circle” moment.

She revealed: “It was a real pleasure to be asked to reprise the role of Clare for Nigel’s storyline.

“I was hoping to get the call as I think the fans wanted EastEnders to revisit their relationship. Nigel and Clare were a formidable pairing in the 90’s with a very unique stepfather/stepdaughter relationship!”

In 1998, the characters left the soap together to begin a new life in Scotland, but when Clare returned in 2008, she revealed that her relationship with Nigel had become “strained”.

Now, fans will be keen to hear what Clare has been up to in the 18 years since.

Admitting it’s been just as much fun off-screen as she reunited with old colleagues, Gemma continued: “It has been so great to reconnect with Paul and Karen after all these years, and it’s crazy how time felt like it had stopped when we did!

“I grew up on the set of EastEnders and essentially learnt my craft there, so it’s been a real full circle moment!

“Whilst it will be an emotional reunion, I hope the viewers will be pleased to see Clare and Nigel on screen together once again!”

While fans may be surprised to see Clare back on screen, the soap’s executive producer Ben Wadey says bosses “always knew” they wanted to bring Clare back to Walford.

He said: “The stepfather and daughter duo share a complicated history and have been estranged for many years, but it was essential for us to revisit this relationship as Nigel’s dementia progresses and the family start to consider his additional care needs.”

EastEnders has been working with Dementia UK and experts on the sensitive storyline.