First look at Ricky Butcher’s epic EastEnders return – and Janine is not impressed

SID Owen is making a dramatic comeback as EastEnders’ Ricky Butcher in a first look snap on set.

A familiar face makes his big return to Walford this December.

The actor, 50, returns full-time as the loveable mechanic after ten years away.

He will be reunited with Charlie Brooks, who plays on-screen sister Janine, and ex wife Sam Mitchell, played by Kim Medcalf.

The BBC soap announced Sid's return back in August and will be involved in Janine's current storyline.

Viewers last saw him leaving Walford for Germany in 2012.

A source said: “Bosses have an exciting storyline planned for his return, involving lots of key players.

“Ricky is an iconic character from Albert Square’s early days, and has been hugely popular over the decades. He has lots of unfinished business.

“The sky’s the limit for script writers. An autumn of bumper storylines is on the cards.”

Ricky returns to Albert Square when a concerned Sonia worries about Janine’s wellbeing and makes a secret phone call to him.

Janine can feel control slipping away, as Mick and Linda continue to bond.

Mick comes to Linda’s aid when she’s in trouble over missing her probation meeting with community support officer Murray.

Despite Sonia assuring her that the former couple are through, the schemer is intent on cementing her union with Mick once and for all.

The festive season in Walford this year is set to end in tragedy, as Janine and Mick’s storyline reaches a climax.

But will they both make it out of this alive?