Lawrence reveals 'EastEnders' nerves

EastEnders newcomer Josie Lawrence has revealed that she felt nervous and star-struck during her first day on set.

The 49-year-old actress signed up to play Manda Best, a childhood sweetheart of Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), in January.

"[It was] so nerve-wracking. It was like the first day of school," Lawrence told We Love Telly! magazine. "My character wears these big glasses and they completely steamed up every time I said a line.

"I've watched the soap since it started, so it was surreal walking on to the Square. I felt like I should have my pyjamas on and I was dreaming."

Lawrence added that she had lunch with June Brown (Dot Cotton) and Barbara Windsor (Peggy Mitchell) on her first day, but felt "star-struck" throughout.

Asked about Manda's future, she replied: "It's weird playing a part when you don't know what happens to the character. I could ride off on my bike into the sunset, but grisly ends are much more fun."

> First pic of Josie Lawrence in 'EastEnders'