'EastEnders' in TRIC soap triumph

EastEnders has today been named 'TV Soap Of The Year' at the Television and Radio Industries Club (TRIC) Awards.

The Walford drama secured the prize for a third consecutive year in a triumph over its rivals Coronation Street and Hollyoaks, which were also nominated in the category.

EastEnders legend Barbara Windsor was also a big winner at the ceremony, receiving the 'TRIC Special Award' for her 15 years playing Peggy Mitchell on the programme.

Windsor was among the soap stars who were present for the event, which was held this afternoon at London's Grosvenor House Hotel. Her colleague Charlie G. Hawkins (Darren Miller) and former Albert Square star Joe Swash (Mickey Miller) were also in attendance.

Meanwhile, Hollyoaks actor Ricky Whittle - who plays Calvin Valentine - scored the 'TV Soap Personality Of The Year' accolade. EastEnders actress Lacey Turner (Stacey Branning) and Coronation Street's Simon Gregson (Steve McDonald) had also been nominated.

EastEnders' success at the event was its first major awards achievement this year. Coronation Street won top soap accolades at the National Television Awards and Broadcast Awards in January.

Other notable winners announced today included Harry Hill for 'TV Personality', Doctor Who for 'TV Drama Programme' and Strictly Come Dancing for 'TV Reality Programme'.

> Click here for a full list of winners