EastEnders unveils stunning mural of black woman by London artist Dreph in new Albert Square set

Painting was completed over several days before cast and crew returned to continue filming new episodes

Visual artist Dreph with his mural painted on the side wall of the Beales' house – opposite The Queen Victoria pub – which will become a permanent backdrop to storylines in the BBC1 soap (PA)

A new mural by London-based visual artist Dreph has been painted onto the set of EastEnders.

The BBC1 soap unveiled its new addition to Albert Square as filming resumes for new episodes.

The mural, which is painted on the side wall of the Beales' house opposite The Queen Victoria pub, will become a permanent backdrop to storylines when the show returns to screens around the UK.

It took several days to complete, and was painted directly onto the wall of the Bridge Street house before cast and crew returned to work.

Dreph, born Neequaye Dreph Dsane, is best known for his large-scale murals and oil paintings. His subjects range from strangers to friends and family, and are often a tribute to living unsung heroes and heroines.

In 2017, he created a series of portraits of black women contributing to their communities, under the title You Are Enough. The paintings can be seen around public spots in London.

“The opportunity to have my artwork on the set as a permanent feature, having the same impact as my work has on the streets of London, was a really exciting opportunity,” Dreph said.

“I remember watching the very first EastEnders episode three decades ago, so I was really surprised to hear from the team!

“I'm so pleased that EastEnders has found a way to reflect modern-day UK in a time when so many of us are finding ways to voice anti-racism and I'm so happy that my work will become the backdrop to future storylines in the show.”

Jon Sen, executive producer of EastEnders, said: “Dreph's mural is an exciting and timely addition to the show that reflects events taking place in the real world.

“Anti-racism is something that the cast, crew and producers care passionately about at EastEnders and the show is well known for tackling social issues and celebrating diversity and inclusivity through its characters and storylines.”

Additional reporting by Press Association