Denise Van Outen has bagged herself a part on EastEnders

In the same month that Richard Blackwood announced he’d be joining the* EastEnders* cast, Denise Van Outen has gone and got herself a regular table at the Queen Vic too.

That’s right, lovely Denise – who hosted the recent charity event, Gav Aid, in honour of our Deputy Editor Gavin Reeve-Daniels, who sadly lost his battle with pancreatic cancer last year – has bagged herself a part on the smashing BBC soap.

And before you ask – no she hasn’t been on the show before. You’re thinking of Tamsin Outhwaite. (Or maybe that’s just us…)

MUST-SEE NEWS

EastEnders producers are keeping schtum about what type of character Denise will be playing, but insiders are saying her new character will "send sparks flying through Albert Square" as she romances one of Walford's fellas.

Anyone but Ian Beale. Please not Ian Beale.

Speaking of her casting, Denise said: "I'm really excited to be joining EastEnders, as I've been a fan of the series for years. 2015 marks the show's 30th anniversary, so it feels even more special to be part of this year's celebration."

EastEnders' executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins added: "It was only a matter of time before Denise Van Outen walked onto the Square. We cannot wait to have Denise join us for a few episodes, where she will definitely make her presence felt."

How has she NOT been on EastEnders before?!?!

Lucy Beale murder - the suspects