Gemma , 24, first joined EastEnders in 1993, departing five years later for pastures new. Following an award-winning stint in Hollyoaks, she rejoined the show in February 2008, when her character, Clare Bates landed back on Albert Square with a bump, having been flung from a passing car.

With money her motivation, she initially set her sights on the business empire of Ian Beale , before investing in upwardly mobile Bradley Branning . But her scheming looks set to go too far, and she's soon forced out of Walford.

Of her time back on the Square, Gemma says: "I've had a great time at EastEnders and I have loved having the chance to play Clare again. I'm looking forward to trying new things."