While organising the sale of The Queen Vic, Linda was worried to spot young daughter Annie interacting with Oscar in the market.

At the start of the week, Linda told Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) that she didn’t want Oscar to know their dad Max (Jake Wood) had also fathered Annie.

In the meantime, Linda agreed to sell the pub to Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) and Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner).

 

Linda’s mum Elaine Knight (Harriet Thorpe) gave Linda a cruise ticket, with plans made to house swap with the Slaters so the new owners could move in almost immediately.

It was tough for Linda to pack up her things, but during a brief wobble, she had a heart-to-heart with Kat and was buoyed by the prospect of a new start.

Linda was reluctant when Elaine suggested telling Oscar about Annie as a way of welcoming this new era.

But she ultimately decided to speak to Oscar, explaining that Annie is his sister.

Oscar revelled in the news about his estranged father, claiming he couldn’t pass up a chance to see Max’s face when he finds out about Annie.

Regretting her actions immediately, Linda pleaded with Lauren to persuade Oscar not to tell Max, stating that the little girl simply didn’t need Max.

Lauren complied, and just as Linda was due to set off, Oscar confirmed that he wouldn’t be spilling the beans after all.

A relieved Linda then said farewell to loyal staff member Tracy (Jane Slaughter), with Linda saying she couldn’t have coped without her.

Linda was assured by Elaine that they would have a new permanent home by the time she returned from the cruise, and Linda left Albert Square for a short time, but departed as The Vic landlady for the final time.

But with Max confirmed to return, is it inevitable that he’ll learn all about Annie?