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Check out more behind the scenes action from Southend...

Ryan and Rob's fight on the pier

EastEnders at the seaside

Hostel environment

They say there's no place like home... and this is certainly no place like home! As Sophie Colquhon (Ava) watches the crew set up a scene, it looks like the make-up team have been working overtime on those fake cuts and bruises. Donnie looked a bit dented too.

Miss fit?

Fatboy appears to have the edge in the fashion stakes as Modupe and Ricky rehearse a scene. But that's 'cos we haven't revealed her amazing shoes! Trust us, Faith really knows how to accessorize...

Family fued?

You can tell by the body language that Faith and gran Grace are set to clash. Ellen Thomas is one of several familiar faces to cross over into E20 this series.

Sweeping changes

Sophie and Samuell brush up on their dialogue. Rumours of a big-budget Quidditch sequence in Series 3 may prove to be a little premature, however...

Dancing on the street

Although there won't be the same kind of movin' and a groovin' as we saw in series 2, Samuell's keen to show Ricky his moves. Looks 'Flawless' to us...

Look out for loads more pics on the E20 website and our Facebook page in the run-up to the series launch in September.

Head on over to the website now to find out more about series 3 and watch Ricky 'Fatboy' Norwood introduce the new cast in a special video.

Scott puckers up for Adam

Furry antlers, velvet jackets and a leather-clad Ian... the Vic has seen some fashion faux's in it's time. Is this some cause of amusement for Scott Maslen (Jack)?

The pair reminisce over a mixed tape with Rick Astley's 'Never Gonna Give You up'

I have no idea what Stefan and his mate on set are watching, but I wouldn't mind knowing.

Trying to hide the fact that Rita has cabbage stuck between her teeth doesn't quite pull off

Jo Joyner (Tanya) shares a laugh with Rita Simons (Roxy)

Rita nods off in the excitement

Scott Maslen waits during rehearsals in his 'Jack'et

.

"What do you mean you want the hot water bottle back?" Butter wouldn't melt.

Jo Joyner keeps warm outside with a hot water bottle and a rather prestine dressing gown.

You can also catch a sneak peak of Tanya's wedding dress... it's white!

Will Tanya and Greg's wedding go without a glitch? C'mon... it's EastEnders!

Even if it doesn't... Jo makes a radiant bride as Tanya.

Have you nominated for Ricky yet?

After appearing in EastEnders spin-off E20, Fatboy tucked his trainers comfortably under the table in Albert Square, as his charisma's working a treat on the street.

Ahead of the NTAs on Wednesday, 26th January, we asked our Facebook fans to send in some top notch questions for Ricky to answer.

I'm going to hand the decks (erm... okay, keyboard) over to the good (and smiley) fella himself...

(Ricky takes over)

Natalie asks: What does the NTA nomination mean to you?

Hey Natalie. It's a great honour. It's like the crowning glory in the journey for me. The fact that Fatboy has been recognised by the viewers is amazing - its gobsmacking and I am thrilled.

Kim asks: I love Fats - he's ace. Good luck at the awards... do you still get starstruck?

Yeah, a little a bit definitely. Someone said that David Jason may be at the NTA's and he is an absolute legend to me. I have grown up watching him on Only Fools and Horses and other dramas he's been in, so to think he could be there on Wednesday and I could meet him is amazing.

Jayne asks: Where did Arthur's nickname 'Fatboy' come from?

This is a question that I get asked the most. So his real name is Arthur Chubb, but at school he got given the nickname Chubby, which then turned into Fatboy and he's just kept it as his nickname.

Hannah asks: Do you ever talk like Fatboy in real life?

Sometimes, yeah. I'm from the East End so bits and pieces of slang get used but probably not as much as Fatboy.

Donna asks: How did you feel when you made the jump from E20 to EastEnders?

For me to get E20 was an amazing opportunity and I was determined to work hard to get the best out of it. To then be recognised by the bosses and put in the main show was fantastic. I love being part of EastEnders and it's a great honour that they've kept me in.

Nordam asks: When will we know more about the hidden family lives of Arthur, aka Fatboy?

All I can say is keep them peeled and keep tuned in, there's lots coming up, Nordam!

Cassandra asks: Will Fatboy and Mercy ever get together?

Who knows?! Fatboy always wants there to be something between them but at the same time he recognises that they're really good friends and would never want to ruin that.

I like to be surprised by the writers myself when I get the scripts and I also like the audience to be surprised, so all I can say is keep tuned in!

Jade asks: Ricky, are you as funny as your character?

Of course, lol! I do love a joke and silliness, so I like to think so ;-)

Crystal asks: If you could choose a storyline for yourself in EastEnders, what would it be? ♥

I think Fatboy should win the lottery and every woman in Walford wants a piece of him, but he has to bat them away. The total opposite of what he has now.

Susan asks: Can you sing in real life? I thought you were so funny in the Christmas choir. Lol.

No, I can't sing. If you could see fear in my eyes during that episode - that was all real!

Lisa asks: If you were to play a different character in EastEnders which one would it be?

I would have to say Phil Mitchell, as he is such a great character, but that is all down to Steve McFadden. He's an amazing actor and I've learnt so much from working with him.

Kayleigh asks: Have you been watching your former cast member Sam Attwater on Dancing on Ice?

He is doing really well! In fact, it's a shame he's doing so great, as I was going to put some money on him, but seeing as he's the favourite the odds are rubbish. I wouldn't win anything back. I wish him all the luck though Kayleigh.

Tonicka asks: Why are you so hot?

Because I am sitting next to the radiator?! Thank you, I'm glad you think that. Thanks for all your great questions!

(Lou pushes Ricky off the seat and warms herself back up).

Have you nominated for Ricky in the Most Popular Newcomer category yet? Get voting now... you have until Wednesday to show your love for the funny fella: www.nationaltvawards.com/home

You can still donate to CiN, no matter how big or small, by clicking on their website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/pudsey/donate/

Want to know how this fantastic collaboration happened? We'll be adding behind-the-scenes footage here... so check back soon!

And you can donate to CiN, no matter how big or small, by clicking on their website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/pudsey/donate/

Would you believe that Kym Marsh would like to be Kat if she was in EastEnders? The Corrie star said: "I think her character is fantastic. She's so feisty and she's got an attitude."

The former HearSay singer also added: "I've loved working with Jessie as well. It's been great."

Nitin Ganatra, who plays Masood, described working with the Corrie cast as "fantastic" and "very exciting to have the crossover."

And who would Nitin be if he were to cross the cobbles? "Even though he's not there anymore, I would have been Jack Duckworth. His comic timing was brilliant."

Diane Parish, who plays Denise Johnson, admitted to being nervous, but "honoured to be working with Helen Worth."

So much for all that soap rivalry, eh?

Which EastEnders character you would be?

Tip: Never use a camera operator from 'Walford Weddings'. Unless of course you like viewing trees and gravel.

As the blooming bride and gorge groom embark on a beautiful journey of togetherness and love - *I'm almost making myself barf* - why not shower the happy couple with a warm wish?

In other words, send the pair a funny message.

Whether you wish to send them words of congrats, or perhaps tell them how utterly fab they looked, or just to hand them a nugget of advice (I'm sure they'll need it). Write your words of wisdom below and I'll be sure to hand them on...

Send us your gems for Jack and Ronnie... mushiness, humour, sympathy are all welcome!

If you're still in the clouds in confetti mode... check out part one of EastEnders: The Greatest Weddings on BBC Three.

Which Walford wedding rings your bells? Let us know!

My top Jac quote:

"Yeah, I have a sheep. Yeah, he sleeps with me in bed." Let's hope he helps her catch some zzzzzzzzzzzzz's.

And when the camera wasn't rolling (damn!):

• We spotted Ricky Norwood (Fatboy) hanging out with the young actress, Himesh (Tamwar) and Bunmi (Mercy) in the chill-out room between scenes.

• We listened to Cheryl singing a song about Jac whilst strumming her guitar. Quite a tune!

• Jac explained that she HAS to wear two bracelets as Lauren in every scene.

Now you're filled in on what it's like to live life as an actor, what do ya reckon? *Turns a shade of green*. I'd do it! Let me at 'em.

Who else would YOU like to see a day in the life of? What sort of video feature would YOU like us to film? (Keep it clean people)...

Don't forget to tune into LIVE EASTENDERS: THE AFTERMATH on BBC Three now.

20:34: And there was me thinking it was Max!!!! Fabulooouuus. I. AM. SHOCKED. TOO.

*Louise takes over*

20:31: I WAS TOTALLY WRONG! IT WAS STACEY!! I. AM. SHOCKED.

20:30: Oh no Bradley fell. Blood! I'm nearly crying!

20:25: Oooh a video trip down Walford memory lane round the Beales. Sharon! Michelle! Den! Ange! Weenie Ian! What a nice touch for the 25th anniversary. Oh what a quarter century it's been.... anyway BACK TO WHODUNNIT NOW

Comagirlx on Twitter: "I want to give Bradley a hug!!!!!!!!!!" So do we Comagirlx. I'm sure if we could give him hugs we could make it all better...

20:20: Oh no, Stacey and Bradley. I can hardly bare it! They're only young. They deserve a life together! Oh whyyyyyyyyyyyy!? Berlimey, Bradley left the passports behind or so he says.. we know he really left the iron on. STOP EVERYTHING. FIRE HAZARD!

20.13: Don't go Stace and Bradders! Don't leavvvveeeeeeee!! Halfway through and there's everything to play for.... and herrrrrre's Marsden!

20.10: Hoorah! Furnisher-smashing and kitchen dismantling round the Beales! Phil, you're a dangerous man. Can you flush Ian's head down the toilet again now, please.

20.08: Roxy - "how do you know he did it?" Ronnie - "because he's done it before." gah!!!! meanwhile, DON'T RUN BRADLEEEEEYYYYY!!!!

20.03: Ugh... poor Roxy, finding out that her dad was a good-for-nothing evil so-and-so. BUT WHO KILLED HIM!?

20.01: Ooooh it's happening RIGHT NOW as I live and breathe!

*Nickie_L takes over*

19:59: I've just seen Diederick (Exec Producer) smiling. The man knows too much! Not long to go now though lovely people... the theme tune will beginning in a matter of seconds! *hyperventilating even more*.

19:45: Well, well, well. 'Who killed Archie' is the biggest trend on Twitter. We're all overtaking the woooorrrld. Can you imagine if Archie survived? Vicky the bust wouldn't be famous. It was worth it.

19:30: The cast are now congregating in the Vic... quick pee runs please. Get the bouts of flatulence out of the way. Burp to high heaven.

RocketingRotars via Twitter: "It was Mrs Peacock, with the revolver in the study." Not Mrs White? I always thought she was a sly one.

19:10: *Hyperventilating* Under one hour to go! Don't forget to watch EASTENDERS LIVE: THE AFTERMATH which starts straight after the programme for a whole hour on BBC Three. George Lamb will be capturing all the drama and excitement behind the scenes. Larry's son will be grilling the cast and gauging their reactions on who the murderer is.

Eastendersforever from this blog: "IT WAS TAMWAR!!!!!!!!!!!" Hmmm. Not sure on that one. Perhaps he used his comedy act on him... the wit on that lad.

18:49: Just seen only one of the longest-running extras in EastEnders' history... WINSTON! He just said hello to me with a big grin... and looking very dapper I may add. We LOVE Winston!

18:20: What's happened!? The stomping of footsteps has severely reduced. The microphone calling has stopped... and the rainbow of party outfits rushing to and fro on various cast members have vanished. One crew member sings whilst chomping on an apple; "It's all sooo quiet..". Tis great, but slightly eerie.

The cast are going through their final rehearsal... and I can't see any of it. Damn it. Roll on 20:00!!

Cupcake_77 from Twitter: Getting very excited for tonight. I think it was Ronnie... can't wait to find out!

Alberta Nika disagrees on Facebook: "Honestly, I don't have a clue however its going to be someone so obvious, or someone who you won't expect it to be :), but I have a feeling it's Jack or Tracy."

Only two hours to go until we all find out! *starts getting delirious*. Put us out of our misery.

17:32: The whole of the cast and crew have just posed happily in the studio where the Vic is built. Diederick said a few lines too - he's "very excited!" That's an understatement. I'm ready to collapse! They're now calling the cast for a "company call". Brilliant. (This is the part of the ride where you get giddy and feel a bit sick).

16:40: Legend, Barbara Windsor (Peggy) is in da hooouuuse! She reveals that she isn't nervous... she's petrified (WHAT?!!!). She explains that it's nothing like doing theatre. She's also so glad to be a part of the 25th anniversary.

Wanna know what she got up to last night when she got in? Her old man asked her to sit down, have a cuppa and watch last night's episode. She did, and she got emotional - she says she can't believe she's a part of the show. Well, she is and she's fabulous! Don't leave, Babs. And "Stacey" is her choice on whodunnit... she doesn't think Peggy did it.

16:26: Diederick, the Exec Producer is strolling about. He's so calm. Does he not know that there's a LIVE episode tonight? Someone tell him.

16:20: The lovely Jane Slaughter who plays Tracy the barmaid reckons that if she'd 'dunnit' she may have knocked the bust off of the bar and onto Archie's bonce by dusting. That's some vigorous hand-action, gal! She'd also like to go on a night out on the town with Sharon Watts. 'Oh whatta niiight!'

16:08: Aaaawww. Jamie B just told us how he watched his video last night and really liked it. If you haven't see it - check it out on our 25th anniversary page.

From louise_g_x on Twitter: "My money's on baby George!!!! But I think it could be Ryan."

15:36: Diane Parish (Denise) and Tiana (Chelsea) have been browsing through our fetching snaps of faaaaamilies over the years. Both of them are looking very pretty. Diane points out she has no make-up on yet. But, you look fab to me, love.

15:20: Cliff Parisi (Minty) is in good spirits and keeps popping in to say hello. He's also rounding the troops to come into the diary room... we love 'im.

14:59: Ooooh Charlie Jones (latest suspect, Ben) has just sat himself into our comfy chair - if he was to play any other character apart from Ben... it would be Dirty Den! Rock on.

14:25: Neil McDermott (Ryan) has just walked into the diary room to share his thoughts. He says he's not nervous. What!!?? And what three words describe EastEnders to him? "Cockney, shouting and geezers."

14:10: Crew with head microphones are pacing the corridors. Perry Fenwick meanwhile is chilling in front of the box. Glad to know he's not letting this live lark get to him.

13:51: Wowsers. It seems like a lot of you on our Facebook page think it could have been wayward Sean Slater who did the dirty deed. The plot thickens.

Adam Beale on Facebook: It was Sean!! He was hiding behind a curtain in the Vic during the Christmas episode."

13:36: So the sun may have his hat on, but it's freeeeeeeezing here in Elstree. You may well be seeing some chattering teeth later.

Karl D on Facebook says: "I think Archie accidentally killed himself." Hhmm. Was he not holding the snow globe at the same time? Perhaps he has four hands. Crafty.

13:00: Make-up and costume will be applied and worn from 15:00. That's when butterflies may be kicking in. I'll be finding out how nervous they all are and will let you know.

12:44: I'll be mixing wih the cast and crew today to bring you all pics and informations on what's happening. Oooh, it will be like a rollercoaster ride. Or, perhaps just a drive out with Janine at the wheel. Seatbelts on please.

12:00: It's all go here already. BBC Breakfast interviewed past cast members Gillian Taylforth (Kathy Mitchell) and Martin Kemp (Steve Owen) earlier. Both of them re-lived their experiences of being on the soap and Steve said: " When I was here it was a competition to see who could get that doof doof moment." Well, who's going to win that competition tonight, eh? Ooooh, the excitement.

From Aiysha319 on Twitter: "I think Tracy killed Archie! I'm probably gonna change my mind soon. :)"

11:50: Guess what? The sun has popped out from the dull, ashen clouds here at Elstree. Let's hope it stays that way for EastEnders' 25th birthday. No rain dances please.

11:30: Today's the day of the LIVE episode! Hooray! And... OMG. Today's also the day we hear the doof doof of all doof doofs... who the hell killed Archie Mitchell!!??

Send in your whodunnit thoughts, questions and queries to us throughout the day. We'll be adding some of the best comments on here. Send 'em via this blog, Twitter or Facebook. All you need to do is put #whokilledarchie (no queston marks 'ere, guv) and #eastenders in your tweets. Thanking you.

chatting to fans. The actor, who plays loveable Heather,
wears a black and silver floor-length sparkly number. She answers the question on every tabloid's lips "whodunnit?" Cheryl's reply: "I really don't know! I have no idea..." Her answer to Archie's killer continues... she doesn't know.

1755: HUUUUGE CHEERS from the crowds! Who is it??! I tip toe over the red-lit video cameras... It's the one and only Barbara Windsor (Peggy) daintily stepping out of her ride with her husband Scott Mitchell (yep, he's a Mitchell!) The acting legend works the red carpet like the wonderful starlet she is, wearing a silver floor-length sequined design. The hair? I'm sure Peggy would floor her for a barnet that good.

1756: Tabloid favourite of the moment... Charlie Clements is next to work the red rug as he fends off questions left, right and centre on his exit. HE DOESN'T KNOW how Bradley's leaving the Square. Sorry folks. How does he sum up his time at EastEnders in five words? "Fun, hard work, friendship and experience." With a wink to boot. We love you, Charlie.

1805: Educated British actor, writer, comedian, television presenter and film director (*and breath*), Stephen Fry, works the crowd. I can't help but notice that he's playing with the zip on his flies. Hhmmmm. The famous Twitter spoke of his tweeting: "I haven't tweeted a single tweet, but I may have to break my habit tonight." Did he? Talking of Twitter... thank you for following us as we updated you from the red carpet!

1810: Quite a few other stars mingle from Joanna Lumley (draped in a rainbow of colours), X-Factor winner, Joe McElderry, Piers Morgan to Gavin and Stacey writer and actor, James Corden. Then, ex-EastEnder Kara Tointon walks towards me wearing a gaaawwwwg black and silver gathered dress, looking extremely petite and pretty. She flashes her mega-watt smile and says: "It's nice to see all of my friends again." Aaaaww.

1820: OMG... who's arriving? The crowd go wild!!! It can't be Babs again? No, it's comedian Michael McIntyre. He signs autographs 'furiously' (that's just fast to you and I). I try to get a piece of him to ask about EastEnders'... I give up.

1825: The shivers are starting to take over. Even the men are complaining behind the barriers. Will I? Not out loud. I'll just mumble to myself.

1830: Phil Mitchell hardnut, Steve McFadden, approaches me with a hoard of video cameras

gathering, pushing and shoving. He's smiling and explains to all the pointing vids that he has no idea who killed Archie. "The scripts haven't been written yet." When will Steve pick up a gong for his marvellous acting anyway? Who agrees? That man is... a legend.

1845: Oooooh... too hot to trott! Johnny Partridge (Christian), Marc Elliott (Syed) and Most Popular Newcomer nominee Neil McDermott (Ryan) are man-hugging and chatting to journalists. Who are following extremely closely behind? The gaggle of Loose Women ladies. In the words of Walford's gossip Queen, Dot: "Ooh I say!"

1850: Where are my toes? The shivers are now becoming unsightly body shakes. Good look. Whilst I'm looking highly inappropriate, preggers' Danni Minogue looks dashing in a cream and black glam dress, and a hairpinned updo. Her fella is standing nearby... unable to take his eyes off of the X-Factor lovely. I don't blame him.

1851: Nitin Ganatra, who plays alpha-mail postie and catering businessman Masood steps out of his car with Nina, who plays his bossy, pregnant wife, Zainab. But what is his biggest indulgence? Mahoosive Saturday night takeaways? Pricey designer togs? Travelling first-class? No. Cheese and onion crisps. I prefer salt and cracked black pepper.

1855: Nearly half an hour until the NTA ceremony takes place. Here come the presenting duo Ant n' Dec, bosom buddies Katie Price and Michelle Heaton and JEDWARD!!

Massive cheers for the twin sensation. Who'd have thought it?!! The duo sport matching grey and black chequered suits with a black bow tie. They can't wait to sing in front of our stars either. Are they nervous? "It's all good nerves."

1915: Sid Owen arrives. I write it down. Where's he gone? I overhear ex-Popstars and Corrie actor, Kym Marsh, say of the Most Popular Serial Drama category: "If we don't win tonight then I'll be quietly sulking." We don't want that, do we?"

1925: Music mogul Simon Cowell arrives... and don't we know it! Draped on his arm, of course, is Sinitta (recent reject of Dancing on Ice) and another lady in her party frock. His teeth are whiter than Dubai's beaches.

1930: Just as I am about to hobble back into the journo media box to warm up with a cuppa...

Lacey Turner, nominee of Outstanding Serial Performance, for her role of troubled Stacey Slater arrives. She's rushed with her sister in tow to the paps to pose, then ushered into the O2. Stylishly late, girl! I like it.

1933: Assuming the ceremony has begun inside... Cheryl Cole arrives very fashionably late! Looking damn hot in a ground-sweeping silver Stephane Rolland gown with cuffs and blinding earrings which sway as she signs autographs to screaming and crying fans... you gotta give it to 'em for standing their so long! Biggest cheer of the night: Babs was way up there, alongside Cheryl and Danni.

1937: Limp into media room to platters of triangle sandwiches (yum. Saviour). The EastEnders' cast are on the TV screen in the room.

1950: A lady walks in to us to announce the first five winners of the night before it is announced on screen. Love it. LACEY TURNER wins in her category. My body is back, as I leap to my feet. Soon after, Outstanding Serial Performance is announced to the auditorium and Lacey graciously accepts the award. The most notable and touching
part of her speech: "A massive, massive thank you to Gillian Wright. Thank you so, so much!" No, thank you, Lacey.