Danniella Westbrook on Ricky, Bianca and her exit

Last week, I managed to steal a chat with the lovely Danniella Westbrook as she took a break between filming at Elstree Studios.

As we all know, her character Sam Mitchell bows out of the soap around Christmas time as her four-month story reaches its conclusion. Apparently, all's not plain sailing, though. Seemingly, just when you think you have it sussed, the story takes a twist - it's not as straightforward as you'd expect her departure to be.

Intriguing...

Anyway, click here to read the main chunk of the interview, but read on for a bonus portion.

What's been your favourite scene or scenes to film since returning?
"It has to be the massive fights with Bianca. They were really good fun."

Does Sam love Ricky? Or is she just looking for stability?
"I think she does love Ricky and because of their history, it makes sense. But in the long run, Ricky's not enough for her because he's just so normal. She wants someone that's a bit rough around the edges. Sam wants everything that's not right for her. Ricky will do until something better comes along!"

Should Ricky be with Sam or Bianca?
"Definitely Bianca over Sam. It'd be better for them, but I think the spark's still there between Ricky and Sam."

When do you finish filming?
"I finish now at the end of October."

Will it be sad to leave again?
"I'll be sad to leave because I've really enjoyed my time here again. I'll miss it when it's not here everyday, but with the way the story goes, it makes sense for Sam to leave. If she does come back next year, at least Sam will have done what she meant to do. Coming back for this stint has proved to me just how much I do enjoy it here."

Can you give us any clues as to how you leave?
"You know I can't tell you anything!"