In what some see as a desperate move on behalf of the Eastenders producers, they recently offered Mike Reid a six figure sum to return as rogue car dealer Frank Butcher.

It appears that Reid has turned down the offer, citing the fact that he was sick of Eastenders, and the long hard days.  There is concern among Eastenders fans that they seem intent on bringing back past characters (there are also rumours of “Robbie Jackson” making a return) rather than investment time and effort in introducing stronger characters into the show. 

The imminent departure of Pauline Fowler is also a major set back for the show, which in many ways still seems to live in the past.