'My Family' star joins 'EastEnders'

My Family actress Siobhan Hayes has joined the cast of EastEnders.

The 32-year-old – who is most noted for playing dimwit Abi Harper in BBC sitcom My Family – is to play the role of Melinda, the WAG-wannabe partner of Walford returnee Ricky Butcher (Sid Owen).

A Walford source told DS: "Ricky returns to the Square for his dad Frank's funeral and turns up with Melinda - but is it true love or just a fling between them?"

Sid Owen and Patsy Palmer (Bianca) returned to filming with the BBC soap last month and will make their on-screen comeback in March.

Charlie Brooks and Sophie Lawrence also agreed to reprise their Albert Square roles – Janine and Diane Butcher respectively – for EastEnders' special 'Frank Week'.