EastEnders reveals who discovers Lauren and Mark's affair in blackmail plot

EastEnders’ Lauren Beale and Mark Fowler are dragged into a sickening blackmail plot next week when Ned Hawkins discovers their secret affair!

After the secret lovers are caught in a passionate clinch by Ned, he demands a twisted favour to keep their sordid fling under wraps. Will Mark cross a line to protect his relationship with Lauren?

Related: Best streaming services

"Ned’s request leaves Mark rattled," says our Walford insider. "We’ve seen flavours of Ned’s dark side and now he’s really set to test Mark’s morals. His feelings for Lauren run so deep, though, so he’ll do anything to keep seeing her."

As the week begins it’s a time of celebration for the Hawkins family as Ned officially takes over as co-owner of Harry’s Barn. The newcomer rallies the community for a big knees-up to commemorate the occasion, but he’s soon up to no good…

Meanwhile, Mark and Lauren meet in secret to continue their affair, but when they’re suddenly interrupted by a noise in the house, panic sets in.

Later at Harry’s Barn, Lauren brushes off Mark’s paranoia, telling him it was probably a handyman who overheard them. However, the person who has actually rumbled them is a much bigger threat…

"Mark is unnerved when Ned shows his hand," shares our source. "Ned appears to always be hunting for ways he can use people to his advantage. He has Mark exactly where he wants him, desperate and easy to manipulate."

Related: EastEnders reveals turmoil for Kat and Alfie in tragic Zoe death aftermath

Scared of Ned exposing the affair to the whole bar, Mark agrees to talk with him in private, completely unaware of the favour Ned will ask of him. In his office, Ned pulls the ultimate power move and threatens to rip Lauren and Mark’s worlds apart if Mark doesn’t carry out his request!

Mark’s horrified by Ned’s demand and he’s left to process the dilemma while the Hawkins continue their party. As the clan celebrate a winning night at Harry’s Barn, Ned gives Mark a chilling reminder of the consequences of not obeying.

"Mark meets with Lauren for secret crisis talks," teases our insider. "Her life could be destroyed if the affair comes out, so she urges him to do whatever Ned asks. But will he admit to what he’s been asked to do?

After seeing how upset Lauren is, conflicted Mark realises he has no choice but to carry out Ned’s orders. How far is Mark set to go to protect his affair? And will Ned’s blackmail stop there?

EastEnders airs on Mondays - Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.

Read more EastEnders spoilers on our dedicated homepage

Visit our Streaming Guide now to see at a glance where you can view ALL your favourite shows and movies.

The new edition of Legends, a 100-page celebration of Dolly Parton's life, is here. Buy Dolly in newsagents or online.