EASTENDERS fans were left in tears when the soap featured a heartbreaking twist in their “perfect” VE Day episode.

Last night the residents of Walford came together to mark 80 years since the war ended.

In the latest episode of EastEnders, Phil and Jean convinced Linda to coincide the re-opening of The Vic with VE Day celebrations.

The Albert Square pub has been closed since the explosion that killed Martin Fowler.

But last night it re-opened, much to the joy of the local residents, and the viewers at home.

However, there was a heartbreaking twist when Nigel – who is suffering from dementia – believed it was 1995, and the party planned at The Vic was to mark the 50^th anniversary of VE Day.

Throughout the episode, Nigel was heard speaking about late characters, including Peggy Mitchell and Arthur Fowler, as he believed they were throwing the party.

Later when he arrived at The Vic, Nigel kissed Jean as he thought she was his late wife, Debbie, who was killed in a hit and run accident in 1995.

The scenes were all too much for some EastEnders fans, who took to Twitter/X to share their heartbreak, but also to commend the soap on a “perfect” episode.

One fan tweeted: “Omg tonight’s episode was amazing, sad because of Nigel but also heartwarming because of everyone coming together in the vic.”

While another added: “Oh EastEnders that episode was just perfect!

“Tears running all the way through #EastEnders well done!”

This one added: “Such a heartbreaking moment for Nigel.”

POIGNANT EPISODE

The episode also featured poignant nods to wartime Britain including historical footage and music associated with World War II.

Viewers watched in awe at real life scenes of celebrations that took place across the capital on May 8, 1945.

EastEnders bosses wanted to honour and remember those who gave their lives during the war.

Speaking before the special episode aired, Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw said: “Like many others across the UK who will be marking this poignant moment in history.

“We wanted to honour and remember those courageous individuals who gave their lives during the war with a special EastEnders episode marking 80 years since V.E. Day.”