Cassidy 'has a soft spot for Gaffney'

Natalie Cassidy and Dean Gaffney are reportedly meeting in secret.

Now claims that Cassidy, who starred with Gaffney in EastEnders, has not told her boyfriend about the meetings.

"Before we knew they met up, Nat was always texting and speaking to Dean on the phone," a source said. "She told her best friend that she's always had a soft spot for him."

Meanwhile, a photographer reportedly saw Gaffney leaving Cassidy's home.

"I couldn't believe it when I saw Dean scurrying away from Nat's and he wouldn't answer any questions," he said. "He was pursued by the paparazzi further down the street."

However, Cassidy's representative denied the rumours, saying: "Dean was on his way to Islington and just stopped off for a cup of coffee."

Gaffney's spokesperson added: "He's remained good friends with Natalie since leaving EastEnders."

Cassidy and Gaffney will be resuming their roles as Sonia and Robbie Jackson in EastEnders next year ahead of the BBC soap's 25th anniversary.