Former Emmerdale star Samantha Giles will soon be returning to the soap.

The actress will reprise her role as Ashley Thomas’s ex-wife Bernice Blackstock next month, following an eight year absence from the show.

Series Producer, Stuart Blackburn, revealed: “Bernice Blackstock has always been one of Emmerdale’s most popular characters. Linked to Nicola, Ashley, Diane, Rodney and her daughter Gabby, she remains right at the heart of the show.

“With the recent separation of Ashley and Laurel, and problems ahead for Diane, the time is right for Bernice to come back and really stir things up.”

The character of Bernice originally appeared in the show between 1998 and 2002, before making a brief return in 2004. She is expected to return to the village in November.  Bernice was famously involved in a love triangle with sister Nicola and chef Carlos Diaz.

Giles said of her return: “It’s so lovely to be asked back to Emmerdale. The show is on top form and I’m really looking forward to being part of the team again.”