EastEnders reveals shock new family as Mitch Baker’s brother arrives in Walford

STEPPING into the Square for the first time in 2017, the Baker family have become fan favourites.

The EastEnders clan will be welcoming new faces in upcoming months as teased by soap boss Chris Clenshaw.

Former handy man Mitch Baker (portrayed by Roger Griffiths) followed his son Keegan to Walford in 2018, before securing himself a spot in the hearts of many soap fans.

But there's a busy summer ahead for the taxi driver as his estranged brother will be making a surprise appearance in Albert Square.

Musician and actor Omar Lye-Fook MBE (know professionally as Omar) has been cast as Mitch's charming older brother, Avery Baker, who couldn't be more different to him.

In the likes of many other newcomers, Avery will be turning heads as he's set to cause a stir in the BBC One show - while making sure his secrets are kept in the dark.

Hailing from London, Omar is well-known for his debut single There's Nothing Like This which reached number 14 in the UK Singles Chart in 1991.

While he's familiar with life in the limelight, making his musical debut in 1985, the soul musician turned to acting in 2009 and studied at the Identity Drama School.

His first acting credit was a appearance in the Ché Walker musical, Been So Long.

In July and August, 2015, the 53-year-old was also seen in the BBC Two comedy series The Javone Prince Show.

However, his upcoming stint in EastEnders could open more doors for him in the acting industry as it will be his breakthrough role on the box.

Speaking of his new role as Avery, Omar said: "I’ve been watching EastEnders since I was at school so it’s such a surreal experience to now be part of the show."

"I’m having so much fun and it’s an honour to be working alongside this incredible cast."

Avery won't be finding his mark in Alert Square alone as he will be joined by his two sons - Mitch's nephews - Felix and Finlay, played by Matthew Morrison and Ashley Byam.

Much like their father, Felix and Finlay will be known as two firecrackers not to mess with.

";The Baker Family bring a fresh, fierce, fun and exciting energy to the Square", said EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw.

Speaking of Felix and Finlay, Chris added: "They may be charming young men, full of sass, swagger and strength but these brothers are Bakers and, like their father, Avery, have their own unique way of surviving."

"Omar, Matthew and Ashley all bring star quality to EastEnders and we’re excited to see them bring Avery, Felix and Finlay to life."

"The Baker family are the just the start of some new faces landing in Walford later this year - so watch this space."

The news follows reports that long-term resident Lola Pearce will allegedly be killed off from the show in upcoming months.

Viewers are warned.

EastEnders airs from Monday to Thursday at 7pm on BBC One.