“I came close a couple of times to being in EastEnders – at one point they thought I might be viable for a Moon brother,” reveals Walford newcomer Alex Walkinshaw, who plays Vicki Fowler’s boyfriend Ross.

“It never quite happened so I was possibly the only London actor who had never done an episode. I’ve never ruled it out, though, so I’m really glad to be here!”

Inside Soap has never been more thrilled to receive a casting announcement than when we heard that Alex was joining EastEnders. We’ve spoken with Alex a lot over the years, chatting to him about his roles as Smithy in The Bill, Jez on Waterloo Road and, of course, Fletch in Holby City.

So, when we were able to grab him for a chat during an EastEnders filming break, we jumped at the chance…

How would you sum up Ross’ relationship with Vicki? Is it the real thing after they betrayed Spencer?

Well, I think if you get together with someone in the same way Ross and Vicki did, you must really want it to risk so much. A few people have said they’re a bit like Den and Angie in the way they can row one minute and the next be cuddling on the sofa. With Vicki being Den’s daughter, I guess that makes me Angie [laughs]!

I think there are lots of similarities with all of them, but it’s still early days for Ross. He’s very family-orientated, so in that sense he’s similar to Fletch.

Ross also has a decent backbone and isn’t afraid to stand up for himself, which is a Smithy trait – back in the days when I had much more hair! I think there’s lots of scope with Ross to be doing all sorts – good, bad and indifferent.

Related: EastEnders Nicola Mitchell faces dramatic death plot twist

He seems like a gent, but he can be manipulative. So, which is the real Ross?

Both! As a proud man looking after the woman he loves, he knows he’s not flavour of the month and he understands. However, we know that he has an ulterior motive. He’s been on the hunt for some cash and is a bit desperate, so he’s not backwards in coming forwards.

You’ve always played nice characters, so would you like to play a bad boy?

I wouldn’t say no! Whatever EastEnders throws at me, I will absolutely give it 100 per cent, don’t worry about that!

For more chat from Alex, pick up Inside Soap magazine – on sale now.