Mark Jr returns to Walford as Vicki faces Joel in court in EastEnders

But why has he really returned?

 24-30 JANUARY

As Vicki, Phil, and Sam seek answers from Mark Jr., who has a lot of explaining to do, he lies to Vicki, claiming he’s there to support her during Joel’s trial.

Soon, he tells Phil the true story and wants him to help, but Phil refuses as he’s leaving with Nigel for Portugal that night.

However, when Julie arrives home early, Mark takes the chance to keep Phil in Walford by telling her about Phil’s secret Portugal plan.

When Vicki opens up to Zack about how much she’s dreading Joel’s trial, he invites her round to his flat while he practises some new recipes for The Vic. And Vicki is grateful for the distraction and Zack’s kindness.

With Vicki's head a mess, she heads to court with Ross and Mark supporting her, and Zack makes a last-minute dash to join them.

In court, Joel tries to put on a front as Tommy gives evidence. However, when Vicki takes the stand, the defence’s tactics provoke her to rush out of court.

As the court resumes, emotions run high for Vicki and Avani, and Ross refuses a request from Joel to visit him, so Joel asks to see another Walford resident. However, the visit doesn’t go to plan, and as the court resumes, the trial takes an interesting turn.

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One with first look episodes available from 6am on BBC iPlayer