Bardon makes first post-stroke appearance

EastEnders actor John Bardon made his first appearance since his stroke at yesterday's Life After Stroke Awards.

The 68-year-old, who plays Jim Branning in the Walford soap, suffered a stroke last summer and has since been undergoing an intensive rehabilitation programme.

Yesterday, he presented the Suzie Hulks Memorial Award for Art at the award ceremony, held at Claridges, London.

A spokeswoman for The Stroke Association told DS: "We're absolutely delighted that John agreed to come to the awards and present one. He has has made an amazing recovery so far."

They added: "I think everyone will agree that his sense of humour is second-to-none. He was the star of the show and we can't wait to see Jim Branning back our screens."

Earlier this year, Bardon agreed to return to the East-End soap and filmed a single episode earlier this month which will be broadcast later this summer.

The annual awards, organised by the Stroke Association, recognise those who display immense courage and determination as they come to terms and deal with their condition and demonstrate great patience and persistence in overcoming disabilities.