AN EASTENDERS fan-favourite was brutally fired moments after uncovering a bombshell secret about Bernie Taylor.

The shock sacking sent ripples through Albert Square and is set to have major consequences as the truth about Bernie starts to unravel.

EastEnders fans will know, Vicki’s been keeping a close eye on the Panesar books – all while working under Bernie’s watchful gaze.

Bernie was handed control of the family empire at the start of the year, thanks to Nish’s final act of revenge against his family.

But tonight’s episode saw Vicki spot some dodgy invoices – and while she tried to flag her suspicions, Bernie wasn’t having any of it and quickly shut her down.

Vicki’s week goes from bad to worse when sister Sharon booted her out of the family home – all because she hasn’t paid back the money she owes.

Skint and desperate, Vicki begged Bernie for an advance on her wages.

But instead of a helping hand… she gets the sack.

Determined to get answers, Vicki swiped her work laptop and started digging – and what she uncovered left her gobsmacked.

She stumbled across hard proof that Bernie has been stealing from the business… and now she had the receipts to prove it.

With the evidence in hand, Vicki plotted her next move – and blackmail was well and truly back on the menu.

Vicki dropped the bombshell on a stunned Bernie, revealing she’d uncovered the £20,000 theft – and wasn’t planning to stay quiet for free.

She demanded half the stolen cash, her old job back, and a juicy pay rise – or she’d march straight to the Panesars and blow her secret.

Bernie had no choice but to cave – but has Vicki really won the war?

Or has it just begun?

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One, or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer.