Hollyoaks star Tomi Ade predicts fan shock over knife crime story

 "He doesn't go out intending to use the knife."

Hollyoaks' Tomi Ade has predicted fans will be "shocked and angry" by the gripping new knife crime storyline.

PC Saul Reeves becomes the victim of a knife attack when DeMarcus takes a weapon to a school party as he tries to fight back against his bullies, led by the evil Joseph Holmes (Olly Rhodes).

The week will begin flashing forward to a mysterious figure dumping a blooded hoodie in a rubbish bin. Ade, who plays DeMarcus Westwood in the soap, reveals to Inside Soap that audiences will be "shocked and angry" by the events of the flashback.

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"By that point the events would have come full circle, so the audience will get a glimpse into how it all played out – and how it can play out in real-life, too," he added.

The build-up to the attack begins when DeMarcus takes the weapon into a school party as the star explains: "It's a combination of things, starting with his fear of Joseph, who has previously attacked DeMarcus.

The actor continues: "But there's also an expectation from DeMarcus' dad, Felix, who spoke to him about being a man, and DeMarcus doesn't feel like a man when he's unable to defend himself."

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Nothing happens during the party as DeMarcus is just trying to enjoy himself and be with his friends until the bullying Joseph rocks up, and even though "he doesn't go out intending to use the knife," the moment presents itself when they're both in the park.

"DeMarcus immediately wants to take care of the situation. And because DeMarcus has this weapon, he feels as though he can step up – so he does," Tomi states.

The young star admits: "DeMarcus' actions are led by fear, not only for himself but also for Vicky as well."

When asked how Chris Charles' Saul gets involved, Ade says the copper comes as everything unfolds.

"Saul shows up as it's unfolding and tries to end it as soon as possible," said the actor. "I think Saul sees DeMarcus as a younger version of himself, so Saul wants to keep him out of trouble."

However, as PC Reeves fights for his life, the flashback will reveal the person who stabbed him at the end of the week.

Hollyoaks now streams first on All 4, with new episodes dropping each weekday morning. The show airs Mondays to Fridays at 6.30pm on Channel 4, and at 7pm on E4.