EastEnders confirms Ian Beale's new alliance with show villain

 Will he regret it?

EastEnders has confirmed a new alliance for Ian Beale, following his recent release from prison. Struggling with being public enemy number one, Ian gratefully accepts help from newcomer Ned Hawkins. But will he regret his decision?

In tonight's (8 October) episode, Ian continued to face backlash from the community after running over Jordan Fox earlier this year. Though his family were pleased to have him home, his neighbours weren't so forgiving.

In the cafe, Elaine Peacock welcomed Ian back and suggested they resume their romance when she returned from her trip. However, Ian brushed her off, explaining that he needed to focus on his businesses – with Ned listening in nearby.

Later, Ian was horrified to see someone had painted "Kid Killer" on the window of his chippy and he struggled to wipe it off. He was approached by Ned, who offered him a hand as well as a sympathetic ear.

Ned explained how he had retrained as a therapist after his time in the army. His kindness prompted Ian to open up about his guilt and convinced him to stop hiding away.

"You've got nothing to be ashamed of. You mustn't worry so much about what other people think. The ones that matter don't think it anyway, and the ones that do will move on to hating someone else by the end of the week," he said.

Ned helped Ian face his "demons" by taking him to where the accident happened and making him "own" his actions. He also pointed out that his life has changed after being in prison, but suggested he might've "changed for the better".

Feeling better after their chat, Ian visited Chelsea Fox, who immediately forgave him for the accident. She explained that Jordan was recovering well, with Ian offering to help pay for his physiotherapy.

Later, Ian went to see Ned to thank him for his help and advice, telling him a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. Ned assured Ian his door was always open, but could he be hiding an ulterior motive?