Rudolph enjoys Albert Square humour

EastEnders may have a reputation for being a miserable soap, but Rudolph Walker insists it is the show's humour that keeps him coming into work every day.

The 72-year-old actor has played Patrick Trueman for 11 years and he told Inside Soap magazine how he likes his character to experience all sorts of emotions.

Rudolph said: "The camaraderie keeps me going. Being in EastEnders is challenging at this stage in my career, and the demands are far greater than they used to be.

"Turning up on set every day and keeping the character fresh is hard work, but I do it with a smile.

"As long as Patrick continues to run the gauntlet of emotions and there's humour in the show, I'll be happy."

Patrick was left devastated by Heather Trott's murder.

But things are looking up for him when he enjoys a passionate fling with Tanya Branning's mother Cora Cross, played by Ann Mitchell.

Rudolph said: "Patrick enjoys the thrill of the chase - and the conquest!

"He'll continue to investigate the prospect and see what happens between him and Cora."