*OPINION* JACQUELINE JOSSA SHOWED WHAT AN INCREDIBLE ACTRESS SHE IS AS SHE DELIVERED SOME EMOTIONAL SCENES

Tonight's visit (Wednesday 21st May) to Walford based, EastEnders was an emotional stand alone episode featuring just a handful of characters on a storyline where EastEnders are working with Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

The week started with Lauren Branning noticing something was wrong with her newborn, Jimmy Beale but only Linda Carter appeared to be listening following their heart-to-heart about addiction in Monday's episode (19th May) which I really hope continues as their friendship is so refreshing to see.

The way Lauren trusted her instincts shows both growth and confidence within the character - the strong yet frustrated and vulnerable sides have been portrayed this week. There was something about the weight that appeared to be lifted off Lauren's shoulders when she was finally listened to thanks to Linda noticing Jimmy's eyes allowing her to be listened to for the first time was brilliant to see as this is something most people don't witness - the strain on a parent, but also wanting to do what's right for your child!

Lauren's frustration was refreshing to see as it's very rare letting us viewers are let in, but when it came to Lauren and Peter's chat the dialogue seemed raw and filled with some tough home truths that were very much needed. Jacqueline and Thomas Law seem to work well on scenes like this, but I can't imagine how tough it can be to get in the right headspace for these scenes.

Ian Beale's attitude was horrendous, and the fact he has always looked down towards Lauren is disgraceful she is the mother of his grandchildren at the end of the day. As weird as it was, it was nice to see Kathy Cotton and Cindy Beale support one another.

With Peter in denial which I understand, however, he should be supporting Lauren after everything they have been through over the years, this is definitely the toughest but I really hope they can find a way to support one another as they navigate the next part of their journey all I know is that Jimmy is lucky to have Lauren as his mum this week has shown this.

The scenes following Jimmy's diagnosis that were a really tough to watch, but delivered with care and honesty as Lauren began blaming herself once again. Jacqueline Jossa absolutely smashed the emotional and vulnerable moments especially the monologue featuring the lines - the 'we are in the dark together' and 'Mummy's right' which broke me and I have a feeling I won't be alone in saying this. The lights flickering as the episode ended was a symbolic move. The lullaby ending with the credits was a powerful move.

I'm intrigued to see how the next steps will be delivered, but one that I hope will see awareness raised. EastEnders deliver their issue based/ led storylines with such care. I also have nothing but praise for the script from Carey Andrews which was beautifully crafted.

Please can someone give Jacqueline an award alone for this episode. If you agree, please vote for her to be shortlisted for an NTA in Serial Drama Performance category here.

This episode of EastEnders aired on Wednesday 21st May on BBC1 at 7.30pm and on BBCi Player from 6am.