Police surround EastEnders studios and BBC bosses beef up security as fans descend on set after tragic live episode
POLICE surrounded EastEnders' studios to assist with BBC security as devastated fans descended following the tragic anniversary episode.
The long-running soap celebrated its 40th anniversary by going completely live on Thursday night.
Fans were left heartbroken as Martin Fowler was killed off in The Vic explosion, after a steel beam crushed his legs.
The episode ended as Walford heard Stacey's cries from the wreckage - as upset fans stormed out of a large viewing party in Wembley.
But The Sun can reveal the Beeb beefed up security at the show's studios in Elstree, Borehamwood for the live episode.
Dressed in high-visibility clothing, the extra guards kept devastated fans away from the entrance to the set as they flocked down.
more on eastenders
Police were also in attendance, as uniformed Police Community Support Officers helped manage the crowd.
A source said: "PCSO officers came down to the studios to assist BBC security in managing the crowd.
"The crowd was extremely peaceful and wanted to be close to their favourite show on such a huge night and to catch a glimpse of the stars.
"But it was a challenge and health and safety issue for the stars to leave the compound in their cars with fans on the road who kept running towards the vehicles as they left.
"The officers and security worked together to keep the situation under control."
Host of The Insecure Podcast Johnny Seifert joined the gathered crowd and filmed as the stars were driven away from the set.
Speaking on his dramatic exit as Martin Fowler, James Bye said: "Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years at EastEnders and on the night of the shows epic 40th anniversary – the time felt right.
“It's an honour to leave on a story of this magnitude.
“A huge thank you to all the fans of the show – EastEnders wouldn't be what it is without you – and to the BBC and EastEnders team for trusting me with this role for so many years.
“This fruit and veg man will always hold a special place in my heart.
“It's time to look forward, and I'm incredibly excited for what the future holds. RIP Martin Fowler."
EastEnders' 40th anniversary cameos so far
With the 40th anniversary of EastEnders coming up, fans are looking forward to some more incredible cameos from iconic faces of Walford's past. But who have we had so far?
Tracy-Ann Oberman - Oberman returned as Chrissie Watts, a character she last played nearly two decades ago.
Paul Bradley - Bradley returned as Nigel Bates, a character he last played over 25 years ago.
Micheal French - French returned as David Wicks, a character he last played two decades ago.
Patsy Palmer - Palmer returned as Bianca Jackson, a character she last played in 2019.
Ricky Groves - Groves returned as Garry Hobbs, a character who has not been seen since 2009.
Cliff Parisi - Parisi returned as Minty Peterson, a character who was last seen on the square in 2010.
Ross Kemp - Kemp has returned to play Grant Mitchell, a character he first played in 1990. The BBC has described Kemp's storyline as "explosive". Kemp said it was an "absolute honour" to return to the show.
Other aspects of the EastEnders 40th anniversary celebration include: A wedding between fan favorites, A huge explosion at the Queen Vic, and A live interactive episode.