Max Branning's (played by Jake Wood) scheming looks like it could be about to come to a head this festive season in a series of episodes that will tear his family apart. 

Daughters, Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) and Abi (Lorna Fitzgerald) are already confirmed to leave the Square, but what does Christmas have in store for them?

Little is known of the tantalising scenes, but EastEnders have brought back Simon Ashdown for the occasion.

The writer was instrumental in the creation of the family as well as the enormous reveal of Max and Stacey Slater's (Lacey Turner) affair all the way back in 2007. 

Current show-runner John Yorke told The Metro: "I'm delighted to welcome one of EastEnders' greatest writers back to the show. 

"Simon has delivered some of EastEnders' biggest moments and I hope people will agree that his Christmas episodes are right up there with his very best work. 

The writer's offerings will be shown on Thursday 7th December as the BBC soap dedicates a special to the Branning family. 

As Max's actions spiral out of control, the consequences of these become the catalyst for one explosive Christmas. 

A BBC spokesperson added to the publication: "With Christmas rapidly approaching in Albert Square, things are set to explode in catastrophic style. 

"Secrets and lies are exposed and families are torn apart forever. With the Branning's at the heard of Christmas day, the special festive episodes will be written by Simon Ashdown. 

"The Brannings will be at the heart of the drama and it is set to be a classic EastEnders Christmas that will go down in Walford history."

EastEnders continues Monday on BBC One at 8pm.