EASTENDERS character to suffer stroke...

A major EastEnders character is set to suffer a major medical crises when they have a stroke.

Patrick Truman will fall ill in a new storyline, which will take viewers on a journey from the first signs something is wrong, to the stroke happening and the severe consequences that Patrick will suffer afterwards.

The stroke is said to have a huge effect on Patrick, and his close ones - which will be followed for the rest of the year.

Patrick Truman will fall ill with a stroke

"This is a truly important storyline as strokes affect so many people in so many different ways. We are all working very hard on this and I hope Patrick's story can help raise awareness," said Rudolph Walker, who plays Patrick.

In the statement, EastEnders Executive Producer, Dominic Treadwell-Collins, also added:

"This is an important storyline in so many ways. Not only does it give the wonderful Rudolph Walker a chance to shine, but we also hope to raise awareness of the warning signs that come before a stroke and the difficulties of caring for the elderly in 21st century Britain."

Patrick's shock stroke is bound to also affect close friend, Dot, as her husband - and Patrick's best bud - Jim Branning - has been in residential care since suffering a stroke himself.

Jim's storyline came when actor, John Bardon, had a stroke himself, in real life, in 2007.

Jim Branning - Patrick's best friend - played by John Bardon,
also suffered a stroke, both in the soap and in real life

After having a second stroke, in 2008, Jim was seen on screen on and off, until May 2011, when, due to John Bardon's health problems, the character went to live in a care home.

EastEnders has worked with The Stroke Association, stroke survivors, and other charities to help research the story, which will air later this year.

FIND OUT WHAT THE OTHER SOAPS HAVE IN STORE

HOW ARE THE BIG BROTHER HOUSEMATES GETTING ON?

COMEDY CHUCKLES