In the double bill, Tom (played by Ned Porteous) revealed his name is actually Joseph Tate and his father was Charity’s (Emma Atkins) late husband Chris (Peter Amory).

Joseph manifested a revenge plan to get back at the Dingle’s and it all came to a head last night when Debbie found out the truth about her lover.

Debbie was speechless when she arrived home to find she had been evicted from her cottage with the bailiffs at her door, all thanks to her former flame.

However, it seems Joseph will begin to feel guilty about his treachery in upcoming weeks.

In an interview with Radio Times, actor Ned Porteous admitted: “There’s an element of regret. I think a lot of that is covered by his drive to complete his goal.”

And it appears there is still hope for Debbie and Joseph to reunite as he still sees the “good qualities in her".

The soapstar continued: “There’s a lot of Debbie which Tom finds endearing, her determination her thick skin – he really admires her.

“He wouldn’t want her to come to any real harm, he’s not a monster. I just think he’s been set on this path for so long now maybe it gets a bit misconstrued.

“I want to think he’s a good person and sees the good qualities in Debbie."

Asked whether it is all over for him and Debbie, the star cryptically replied: “We don’t know, you’ll have to stay tuned and find out!”

Emmerdale continues tonight on ITV at 7pm.