Shane Richie: 'David Essex is a joy'

EastEnders star Shane Richie has revealed that David Essex has lifted the spirits of the cast.

The singer joined the BBC One soap earlier this year as Eddie Moon and will appear on screen in the coming weeks.

Richie, who plays Alfie Moon, told The People: "Every so often you get a feeling that gives you a lift and David has done that. He is a joy to be around.

"He's been telling me in between filming about the days he spent in New York with John Lennon in the '70s. I can't say how Eddie comes into the show but he basically turns up, pulls a blag and it's great stuff.

"We have also been doing gags about having other ex-pop stars on the show. Gloria Gaynor will soon be taking over Ian Beale's cafe!"

Richie has previously praised Essex's acting skills, calling him "underrated".

>EastEnders reveals new Moon arrivals