FIRST LOOK: Next week's EastEnders in pictures

Will Mel's wedding plans for Ray come off without a hitch?

Next week sees a New Year dawn across Walford – but will Mel be spending 2019 as Ray’s missus?

Plus, a sozzled Louise embarrasses herself in front of Keanu and Karen is on hand to comfort a confused Bernadette.

Monday December 31

With Albert Square looking forward to celebrating both New Year’s Eve and Mel and Ray’s wedding on the first day of 2019, finishing touches are being made to preparations.

However, with Mel concerned Ray is becoming suspicious, she asks Shirley to distract him from coming home as she brings together the final pieces of her plan.

But when she returns home, Mel’s emotions overwhelm her – and it isn’t long before she’s ranting to herself about her husband-to-be.

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Unfortunately for her, Hunter is also home – and he’s overheard everything.

Will he accept Mel’s cover story for her furious solo ranting?

Festivities are underway at the Vic, but not everyone seems to be in the party mood.

Louise also asks Bex to buy her booze, which proves to be a mistake.

Tired and emotional, she makes a scene in front of both Keanu and Ray as the night goes on.

However, the party keeps flowing, as does the alcohol.

Surely a big night plus intoxication in Walford can only mean one thing: it will all go off.

And we’re not referring to Karen and Billy’s New Year’s outfits – even if they are louder than a bomb.

Did he get that golden waistcoat from the market or does Billy have a specialist tailor to call upon?

Hope he kept the receipt.

Wednesday January 2

Despite her over the top style, Karen shows great sensitivity later in the week as she worries over Bernadette.

Her daughter has been seriously down in the dumps after she was ditched once again.

Tiffany does her best to make it up to her pal – maybe she would upset Bernadette less is she stopped standing her up for Evie?

Feels like a big heart-to-heart may be on the way…

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