John Altman as Nick CottonOh dear, it looks like EastEnders' Dot is in for yet more heartache this Christmas.

Her son, Walford's most notorious villain Nick Cotton, is set to make a return to the Square.

Actor John Altman confirmed his return last night, saying: "After an absence of seven years I am thrilled to return."

"I've always been given great storylines and look forward to seeing if Nick will once again spread fear and loathing throughout the Square."

The ex con, who has been serving time for drug offences for the past few years, arrives in Albert Square hoping his mum will welcome him with open arms.

But the bad boy could be in for a big dissapointment. Dot (played by veteran actress June Brown) disowned Nick when she discovered he was responsible for the death of his own son, Ashley.

John appeared as Nick in EastEnders' very first episode in 1985. He sparked chaos from the outset by murdering Reg Cox, and went on to later kill Eddie Royle as well as trying to poison dear old Dot.

The soap creep also suffered a spell in a wheelchair after falling from a viaduct during a tussle with old enemy Mark Fowler.

Show boss Diederick Santer spoke of his delight at the character's return, and said: "Nick Cotton is an EastEnders legend. We're very excited that he - and the talented John Altman - will be returning to the Square."