EastEnders’ Sharon stunned by Elaine’s reveal – and quickly confronts Phil

Never one to hide what she thinks, EastEnders’ Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe) can always be relied upon to make the most ill-timed of comments – and next week, her big mouth puts her daughter Linda Carter’s (Kellie Bright) friendship with Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) on the line.

With the death of her beloved Mick Carter (Danny Dyer), killing Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters) and her battle with alcoholism, it’s fair to say it’s been a tumultuous few years for former Walford landlady Linda.

But some happiness has recently come her way in the shape of local councillor Clive Masters (David Hide).

Following his arrival in Albert Square this week, the chemistry between the pair is impossible to deny, and they head out on a date, which proves to be a success.

Next week, the local ladies tease her about her blossoming romance, and she later accepts when Clive asks her out again.

Their second date is witnessed by Elaine and Sharon, who are heartened to see Linda flirting and looking so happy.

However, Elaine makes a passing comment that leaves Sharon’s jaw on the floor.

Stunned and unsettled, Sharon seeks out ex-husband Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) and demands some answers from him.

While fans will have to wait and see what exactly has got Sharon’s back up, fans will remember that during her months away from Albert Square, Linda somewhat broke girl code and had a short-lived fling with her best mate’s other ex-husband and Phil’s brother Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp).

Sharon and Grant have a long and complicated history, most recently falling into bed together last spring after he rescued her from the rubble of the Queen Vic explosion.

Sharon’s recent return to Walford after 10 months off screen has been far from quiet, having already locked horns with long-time enemy Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan).

Is Linda about to be the next to find herself on the receiving end of Sharon’s ire?