EastEnders spoilers 12 to 15 October as Ned blackmails Mark

Ned gains dangerous leverage over Mark in EastEnders after discovering his secret meetings with Lauren, leaving Mark facing an impossible decision as he desperately tries to keep their affair hidden.

The trouble begins when Lauren and Mark meet secretly at No.31. Their tryst is interrupted when they realise somebody else has been inside the house, although Lauren later attempts to reassure Mark by suggesting that a handyman was probably responsible.

Mark soon discovers the truth when Ned reveals that he was actually the person in the house. Rather than immediately exposing what he knows, Ned demands a favour from Mark, putting him under pressure to cooperate if he wants his secret with Lauren to remain hidden.

Fearing exposure, Mark agrees to speak to Ned privately. Ned then makes a shocking request, although exactly what he asks Mark to do has not been revealed.

As the Hawkins celebrate a successful event, Ned continues to remind Mark of the consequences if his affair is exposed. Lauren is equally worried about their secret getting out and urges Mark to do whatever it takes to protect it.

Mark eventually gives in and reluctantly carries out Ned’s orders, leaving Ned firmly in control of the situation.

His behaviour comes during a busy week for the Hawkins family. Ned rallies the community to celebrate becoming co-owner of Harry’s Barn, while Ryder is also facing increasing pressure from his dad.

Ryder’s problems take a more personal turn when he confides in Nicola about the man he has been seeing and admits his concerns about Ned’s influence over his life. Encouraged to be honest with those closest to him, Ryder prepares for an important conversation, unaware that Ned has overheard him arranging it.

With Ned now holding Mark’s secret over him while continuing to pressure Ryder, his influence is being felt across several of Walford’s biggest stories.

EastEnders airs on BBC One and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

Image credit: BBC