Jessie Wallace is returning to EastEnders to reprise the role of feisty Kat Moon.

Soap bosses confirmed she will join screen husband Shane Richie, who is also going back to the BBC One show this autumn.

Jessie, whose work since EastEnders has included roles in ITV1's Wild At Heart and BBC One show Strictly Come Dancing, said of her return: "I've really enjoyed playing different roles over the last few years, but am excited to slip back into Kat Slater's stilettos - I've missed her."

Shane said: "I'm very much looking forward to returning to EastEnders to find out what Alfie has been up to and what the future has in store for him. More than anything I'm looking forward to getting my face covered in Kat's lipstick again!"

According to The Sun, Jessie has signed an initial one-year deal to return to the soap, and Shane has thrashed out a similar agreement.

John Yorke, controller of continuing drama, said: "Kat and Alfie are one of EastEnders' most loved and iconic couples so they're bound to get a very warm welcome from viewers when they return to Walford.

"We've had so many new and interesting characters settle into Albert Square since Kat and Alfie departed that it's going to make for fantastic viewing when the feisty, fun duo ride back into the East End."

Alfie and Kat were last seen on Christmas Day in 2005, when they left Walford for a new life in America.

Viewers were gripped by their romance, as well as the storyline which saw Kat confess that she was Zoe Slater's mother rather than her sister.