Denise Van Outen is set to make a guest appearance in EastEnders this spring, it has been announced.

Soap bosses have not disclosed the role that the actress and ex-Big Breakfast presenter will play for a few episodes on Albert Square.

But they say she is poised to send “sparks flying” as her character wastes no time getting close to one of Walford’s men.

Denise Van Outen nicked an ash tray from Buckingham Palace
Denise Van Outen (Yui Mok/PA)

Denise, 40, said: “I’m really excited to be joining EastEnders as I’ve been a fan of the series for years.

“2015 marks the show’s 30th anniversary, so it feels even more special to be part of this year’s celebration.”

The soap’s executive producer, Dominic Treadwell-Collins, said: “It was only a matter of time before Denise Van Outen walked onto the Square.

“We cannot wait to have Denise join us for a few episodes, where she will definitely make her presence felt.”