Fans of EastEnders will learn Nigel Bates’ fate on Thursday, while there’s also news of a major return.

A cliffhanger at the end of the latest episode of the BBC soap on Wednesday had sparked concern that Nigel might die and could be leaving the show sooner than we thought. In the closing moments, Phil Mitchell had got distracted while he was supposed to be keeping an eye on Nigel, after running him a bath.

The character, who has been diagnosed with dementia, was left alone, leading to worrying scenes. As Phil spoke with Mark Fowler Jr, Nigel was seen slipping under the water, appearing to fall asleep.

The episode ended with him fully submerged, with his body motionless. Viewers were left wondering if Nigel was going to die, while the next episode has confirmed what happens next and whether he survives.

The episode saw Nigel’s fate confirmed as Phil eventually realised what was going on. As Phil battled to save Nigel, we saw him brought back to life before being rushed to hospital.

But will Nigel be okay, and will Phil and Julie finally come to an agreement on the best care options for Nigel? More will be revealed in the episode which you can watch now.

Elsewhere, a scene set up a huge return that had been confirmed. Spoilers had revealed Zoe Slater would receive a visit request in prison, and on Thursday we find out who that is.

The news leaves her confused and concerned something is amiss, while when she tells her mum Kat Moon, she too is left reeling. The episode names who it is, while fans had already been told in spoilers that lifted on Tuesday.

It’s Jake Moon, the cousin of Kat’s husband Alfie Moon and partner of Chrissie Watts. Zoe and Kat are no doubt baffled given everyone, including Alfie, believes Jake died two decades ago.