WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD

Viewers have seen Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) and Mick's marriage rocked by his recent decision to cover for Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) and his indiscretion with prostitute Rainie Cross (Tanya Franks).

But things are about to get much worse for Linda in the upcoming weeks.

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The Queen Vic landlady has become the subject of Dean's affections over the past few weeks.

As well as groping her during a photoshoot for his salon, Dean (Matt Di Angelo) also drunkenly kissed her before she pushed him off and made her feelings clear.

But, in a shock new twist to the storyline, Linda will be sexually assaulted by Dean as show bosses tackle the issue of family rape.

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A show insider told the Sunday Mirror of the storyline: "This storyline will highlight the importance of speaking out about unwanted sexual attention as Linda resists telling anyone of Dean’s infatuation with her.

"It is one of the most sensitive and upsetting issues we have dealt with. Viewers will undoubtedly be deeply affected by it."

"It will rip into the heart of the Carter family, changing lives forever, testing Mick (Danny Dyer) and Linda’s marriage and promises to expose a string of very dark secrets.

"But we are proud of the way we have tackled it and hope it raises awareness of a very real problem."

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"The statistics are shocking. I hope EastEnders will help change people’s perceptions."

Fiona Elvines, a representative for Rape Crisis South London, who are working closely with EastEnders on the harrowing storyline, said: "It is important these stories are told in dramas to start to change public perception of rape which heavily blames survivors."

Meanwhile Kellie Bright, who plays Linda, said: "I feel honoured to be given the responsibility to highlight the issue and educate against many myths surrounding rape.

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The storyline is set to air in October.