A popular Maldon pub will feature on BBC One’s Morning Live programme, as part of Eastenders’ 40th anniversary celebrations.
The show will air on Wednesday (February 19) from 9.30am, and features the Queen Victoria pub in Spital Road.
The pub shares its name with the “Queen Vic” in Eastenders and is one of many which the BBC has highlighted during celebrations.
Landlord James Burrell-Cook will appear with presenter Helen Skelton, to talk about the pub.
It is hoped the renewed media attention for pubs will increase support from communities.
James told Caroline Coastal: “I would love this to make people more aware of pubs in general and supports them.
“Whether it’s the Queen Victoria, the Queen’s Arms, or the Victoria Inn, there are pubs in need of people around the UK at the moment. We are at risk of losing our pubs because of inflation, higher prices, taxation – all those elements are playing a part.
“We need to support our pubs – because if we don’t use them, we’ll lose them.”
A series of special programmes is being shown on the BBC, as the corporation celebrates 40 years since Albert Square first hit the small screen in 1985.
Landlord James has fond memories of the programme he first watched with his family.
He said: “We grew up with Eastenders. As far back as 1985, when Angie and Den came on to our screens for the first time. It was part of the living room culture.
“Since then, we’ve had momentous moments like the first gay kiss on British television, mental health stories, and it’s touched on lots of sensitive topics.
“It’s fantastic to be part of, and a real privilege to be asked.”
The Queen Victoria appeared on BBC News last Thursday in a live segment. However, a pre-recorded interview filmed at the pub will be broadcast on BBC One from 9.30am on Wednesday (February 19).