BBC EastEnders newcomer Molly Rainford shares behind-the-scenes snap of new family

BBC EastEnders newcomer Molly Rainford has shared behind-the-scenes snaps of her character.

It was announced last month that the Strictly star would be joining the soap as part of a new family, alongside actor Colin Salmon, Absolutely Fabulous star Harriet Thorpe and actress Francesca Henry.

Colin will play George Knight - the partner of Linda Carter's mum Elaine Peacock - while Molly and Francesca will play his daughters Anna and Gina.

Taking to her Instagram on Wednesday, Molly, 22, shared two backstage snaps as she had her hair and make-up done to become Anna.

In one selfie she smiled for the camera with her hair styled in beach waves and a bold red lipstick on her lips.

In the second, she could be seen having her lipstick applied by one of EastEnders' make-up artists while wearing a light denim jacket covered in pearls.

Molly captioned the snaps: "Anna’s in full swing, she’s also a red lip girl, so excited for our first episode to air."

The Sun exclusively revealed how EastEnders bosses were looking for big name stars for the newcomers.

British actor Colin is best known for his role as MI6 deputy chief of staff Charles Robinson in three Bond films and will play "tough-talking and fiercely protective" father-of-two George.

The 60-year-old said: "I'm thrilled to be joining the cast of EastEnders to take on the role of George Knight. 

“I’m excited to explore the character of George, a true East End gentleman, having been born in the East End myself.

"I have a great affinity and love for the show and I look forward to being part of the great legacy."

Following the disappearance of Mick Carter, Sharon Watts and the Panesar family are vying to join forces with Linda Carter to run the Queen Victoria pub.

However, Linda is secretly teaming up with her "larger-than-life" mother, Elaine, who will be bringing her new partner George and his two daughters Gina and Anna to Albert Square.

Actress Maria Friedman originally played Elaine in the soap between 2014 and 2017 but bosses have now recast the role.

EastEnders airs on BBC One and is available on BBC iPlayer.