As a result, it drove a wedge between Vicki and Joel’s dad Ross – who has continually defended the villain despite his questionable behaviour.

Today’s instalment showed Sharon Watts and Kathy Beale offer her a respite.

Kathy revealed she and Sharon had arranged to take Vicki to the Lake District for a few days.

Meanwhile, Vicki seemed thrown by the idea, saying the two of them should have asked her.

Sharon told her adoptive sister: “Being in the house where it happened, it’s not going to help you heal, darling.”

Kathy added: “Yeah, a few days away, a bit of fresh air, it’ll do us all the world of good.”

Despite them being driven apart by Joel’s actions, Vicki continued to worry about Ross – who was kicked out of Sharon’s home.

Vicki said she can’t “switch off her feelings”, but the other two insisted it wasn’t her problem.

Kathy said: “Vicki, you have been dealing with this for months.

“About time you started looking after number one.”

While Sharon concluded: “You need this, Vicki. By the time you come back, Ross and that son of his will be long gone.”

The episode ended with the three about to head off – but will they be back as planned?

Elsewhere, Nigel Bates was also planning some time away from the Square.

The fan favourite returned to Walford last Christmas after a 26-year-absence.

It was revealed he walked out on wife Julie amid his dementia battle – but she has now joined him in Albert Square.

In today’s episode, Nigel told Oscar Branning about Julie’s dream to visit India.

Nigel later told Julie that he would sell his beloved car – which he can no longer drive, to fund an India trip.