Phil back in Walford

The Mitchell clan look set to be reunited in Albert Square with hardman Phil Mitchell due to make a shock return.

10:47 11 February 2005

The Mitchell clan look set to be reunited in Albert Square with hardman Phil Mitchell due to make a shock return.

Having already persuaded Barbara Windsor to return to Walford to play Peggy Mitchell again, show bosses have now convinced actor Steve McFadden to come back as well.

And with rumours suggesting that Ross Kemp could reappear as Grant Mitchell in the near future, a full-scale family reunion appears to be on the cards.

The Daily Star reports that 45-year-old McFadden, who has been out of the soap since December 2003, will be back as Phil in April for at least six weeks, with a longer deal also a possibility.

The return of the Mitchell family comes as the series desperately tries to revive its flagging fortunes after reappointing John Yorke as the man in charge.

"There's been a complete about-face and now Babs is coming back it was felt she needed at least one, if not both, of her sons around too," a Square insider told the newspaper.

The source added: "Steve has held talks and everything is being geared up for his return.

"No contract has yet been signed but everyone is confident it will happen and he will be back filming before the end of the month."