Dot's evil son Nick always knows to turn up when she's at her most vulnerable and this time is no different. This Christmas, with Jim ill and the anniversary of Pauline's death looming, Nasty Nick arrives on Dot's doorstep, having spent the past few years at her Majesty's pleasure for drug offences.

Nick is one of Walford's most legendary villains. He murdered Reg Cox and Eddie Royle, planned to poison Dot, became a heroin addict, escaped from prison, pretended he had AIDS to extort money from his mum... there isn't really room to chart all of his despicable deeds.

Diederick Santer, EastEnders' Exec Producer is thrilled to announce his return, saying: “Nick Cotton is an EastEnders legend. His complex relationship with Dot, his criminal tendencies, and his addiction to heroin, violence, and everything else that's bad have made him one of the show's best-remembered and best-loved villains. We're very excited that he - and the talented John Altman who plays him – will be returning to the Square.”

John Altman adds, "After an absence of seven years I am thrilled to return to Albert Square. The BBC have always given me great storylines as Nick Cotton and I look forward to seeing if Nick will once again spread fear and loathing throughout the Square!"

Has time and a spell in bird transformed Nick into a reformed character who's ready to play happy families with Dot and Bradley? Or will his presence cause havoc for all who consort with him? Roll on Christmas so that we can find out!

And Nick isn't the only villain returning to Walford this Christmas. Find out more