Kellie Bright as Linda Carter

Kellie Bright as Linda Carter

Kellie Bright is "honoured" to be working on a rape storyline for 'EastEnders' to help raise awareness of sexual assault.

The soap star plays Linda Carter, and her character will be attacked by her brother-in-law Dean Wicks - played by Matt Di Angelo - during the distressing plot later this year, and the actress is hoping to "highlight the issue" on screen.

She told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "I feel honoured to be given the responsibility to highlight the issue and educate against many myths surrounding rape.

"The statistics are shocking. I hope 'EastEnders' will help change people's perceptions."

With show bosses hoping the storyline can highlight the importance of talking about this issue, Linda's co-star Matt admitted it was a "challenging" role to play.

He said: "This is an extremely challenging storyline to play but an incredibly important story to tell."

'EastEnders' bosses are working with charity Rape Crisis South London on the storyline, and a representative insisted the show would find the right balance.

Fiona Elvines added: "It is important these stories are told in dramas to start to change public perception of rape which heavily blames survives.

"'EastEnders' has demonstrated a commitment to getting the balance right. We hope anyone watching who wants to talk about their own experiences feels able to call the National Rape Crisis Helpline."

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