BBC EastEnders in chaos as rodent infestation wreaks havoc on £87million set

ok.co.uk:

EastEnders' brand new £87million set has been hit by a rather unexpected drama a rat invasion.The BBC had to dial up pest control pronto when the pesky rodents were seen scurrying around the soap's prop store, nibbling on props and setting up camp in Albert Square.

The Sun got the scoop with a report claiming: "Attended site for call-out due to reported rat activity in the EastEnders prop store mezzanine floor." It went on to detail: "A thorough visual inspection was carried out showing chewed products/ nesting material." An insider spilled the beans to the tabloid, saying: "'EastEnders' has always tried to represent London and that's become a little too true with an outbreak of rats." They dished out more dirt: "No one wants to see rodents at work and they have been causing a headache by chewing props and leaving droppings everywhere." But fear not, fans of Walford's favourite pub the Queen Vic remains untouched by the rodent ruckus.The source quipped: "Thankfully none have made it into the Queen Vic - yet." Despite the furry fiasco, the BBC soap has downplayed the situation, denying any major "infestation" but confirming that "specialists" have occasionally been summoned to tackle these uninvited guests.

An EastEnders spokesperson clarified: "There is no rat infestation at 'EastEnders' but on the odd occasion, if we have suspected an unauthorised visit from a furry visitor, we have called in the specialists." Following her departure from 'EastEnders' as Karen Taylor earlier this month, Lorraine Stanley has landed a new role in the pantomime 'Dick Whittington' at Kings Theatre Portsmouth.

In a statement, she expressed her excitement: "Having grown up in Portsmouth, it gives me great pleasure to be playing Queen Rat at.