'EastEnders' abuse plot sparks complaints

A recent EastEnders plot following new character Tony King's relationship with his 15-year-old step-daughter has prompted more than 200 complaints.

Last Friday's episode showed King's (Chris Coghill) introduction to Albert Square after a year in jail and included a scene where he passionately kissed a seemingly consenting Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty). The storyline suggests that he manipulated her into a relationship before being sent to prison after being charged with ABH.

The BBC has confirmed that it has received 163 complaints, while broadcasting regulator Ofcom received 41. The pre-watershed episode was watched by eight million viewers.

The broadcaster said the plot had been created "in association with the NSPCC" and in accordance with its editorial policy.

A spokeswoman said: "EastEnders has a rich heritage of tackling difficult social issues, such as domestic violence and mental health."

They added: "Our current storyline about child abuse is another such issue which had been created in association with the NSPCC and in accordance with BBC editorial policy."