Walford Gazette #37

All the latest updates and news down Walford way!

EDITORIAL

Tuesday 8th September 2026

Before we head into what we already know will be a sombre Gazette, there’s a tiny bit of light on the horizon! Three years ago, Ash Panesar left Albert Square for a new life in Canada, almost making her peace with mum Suki before she left!

But since then, Ashneet has been away and has not spoken to her mother – in fact, she’s gone to great lengths to avoid her, not even inviting her to her wedding! But this autumn, Ash returns to Walford, with a slight new look, as Sakira Vel takes over the role from previous actress Gurlaine Kaur Garcha.

**Ash** is due to make a return to Walford shortly, now played by **Sakira Vel**

Now, next week. By now, you’ll have already seen Zoe‘s interest in dad Charlie‘s old cab, and, as you’ll see, buying the old favourite doesn’t go as smoothly as Zoe hopes – and an altercation with the seller this week will see Zoe get a knock on the head in the process of stealing the cab!

But it’s next Monday when Death’s shadowy pall casts it’s veil over Walford, as Kat goes to rouse Zoe to make up after an argument – only to find that Zoe has passed away in her sleep!

Kat panics, and, unable to cope, tries to keep the news to herself. But this is Walford, and Alfie soon realises what’s happened! And you know, we aren’t ones to gossip, but the rest of the Square are! Soon it’s all over the Square and the aftermath has to begin…

Elsewhere, Patrick has noticed Oscar‘s ease with negotiation, and asks him to work some of his charm on grandson Josh! But as the pair chat, old feelings begin to stir… Is there a way forward for the former couple?

Meanwhile, Vinny celebrates his 30th birthday. Penny, feeling guilty, unwisely decides that telling Vinny he’s not the father of her baby might make him feel better! As Lauren tries to talk her cousin into keeping schtum however, Penny’s waters break!

After the newest Walford tot is born into the world, Penny quite rightly decides to keep quiet about the parentage of her new baby and tells Lauren to keep it quiet.

Ah, but you see, someone has overheard them…

Until next time…

The Curator

Week Commencing: 15th – 18th September 2026

Directed by: John Greening

Monday 15th September 2026
Written by: Lisa Gifford

Kat is shaken after finding Zoe’s lifeless body. Feeling totally shocked, she initially keeps the devastating discovery to herself.

However, Alfie also soon learns that Zoe is dead – and the entire family is stunned.

Jean, Mo and Lily prepare to move out of No.31 and into The Vic after being evicted by Suki.

Just when things are looking up the trio, they discover the news about Zoe.

Tuesday 16th September 2026
Written by: Lisa Gifford

Kat locks herself away from everyone after the tragic discovery of Zoe’s death. However, she later heads out and is comforted by Oscar, who explains how his mum coped when Abi died.

When Kat returns to the pub, she’s upset to find the others all holding a vigil for Zoe in her bedroom, so she orders everyone to leave.

News of Zoe’s death also spreads around the wider Walford community. It’s particularly shocking news for the last person who saw her alive.

Penny experiences labour pains but is told by the hospital that everything is fine.

The fallout continues from last week’s wedding drama.

Wednesday 17th September 2026
Written by: Chloe Timms

It’s the day of Vinny’s 30th birthday party and Penny considers telling him that he might not be the baby’s father, although Lauren warns that it’s a bad idea.

The day takes another turn when Penny is upset by Suki and heads outside, where her waters break.

Vinny is oblivious to the drama unfolding, so Harry and Gina have to step in, sober him up and get him to the hospital.

Vinny arrives just in time to see Penny give birth to a son. Penny later tells Lauren that she’s decided not to tell Vinny that he might not be the dad after all, but someone overhears the conversation…

Thursday 18th September 2026
Written by: Yasmeen Khan

Alfie worries that Kat is shutting him out following Zoe’s death. Things get more complicated when Zoe’s postmortem results come in, which leaves Kat needing further answers.

As Alfie is supported by Harvey and Billy down at the allotments, Sharon tries to help Kat. Sharon suggests they should speak to Jack and ask for a favour, but she’s shocked by what the evidence uncovers.

The mystery person who overheard Penny’s secret decides to confront her. However, through this person revealing what they know, another secret is uncovered!

Oscar decides to end his friendship with Josh due to their complicated feelings for each other.