Owen thrilled with 'EastEnders' return

Sid Owen has revealed that he is thrilled to be back on EastEnders.

The I'm A Celebrity... star, who bowed out of the soap in 2004, said he appreciates the opportunity more now that he is older.

It was announced last October that Owen was to reunite with former co-star Patsy Palmer for the first time in six years when they reprise their roles as Ricky and Bianca.

He told Closer: "I appreciate playing Ricky more now. When you're young, you take things for granted."

Talking about Bianca's trademark screech, he said: "I've had fans shout 'Rickaayyy!' at me in the street for as long as I can remember. At least I'm paid for it again now!"

The 33-year-old added that there is still some chemistry between the characters, who were last seen together in a one-off special in 2002.

He said: "Ricky's still a wuss and Bianca still has the upper hand - but there's definitely a spark!"

The pair will return to Albert Square at the beginning of next month.