EastEnders is set to air a harrowing new storyline as a major character is sexually assaulted by a neighbour in upcoming scenes.

Viewers have already seen Pastor Clayton (Howard Saddler) be overly tactile with Yolande Trueman (Angela Wynter), but things are set to get even worse.

When Pastor Clayton placed his hands on Yolande unwanted on several occasions, Yolande bravely confronted him,

though he gaslit her by suggesting that she was the one making him uncomfortable.

In upcoming scenes, Yolande and Pastor Clayton reform their friendship when Denzel Danes (Jaden Ladega) acts out, but when Patrick Trueman (Rudolph Walker) returns to Walford, the Pastor’s jealousy is clear.

With Yolande giving Patrick all of her attention, Pastor Clayton grows irritated.

After learning about the state of Denise Fox and Jack Branning’s (Diane Parish and Scott Maslen) marriage, Patrick organises a meal so that the family can all spend time together.

Despite being busy with the church fundraiser, Yolande agrees to attend. However, Pastor Clayton soon interrupts, and Yolande is quick to invite him to join them.

As the family eat and talk, Patrick begins to realise that Pastor Clayton knows more about Denise and Jack’s problems than he does, and soon begins to grow jealous of his closeness to Yolande and the family.

On the day of the fundraiser, Yolande is stressed, and pointed comments from the Pastor’s wife, Stella, only make things worse.

Later, Pastor Clayton helps Yolande pick up supplies from No.20, but Patrick isn’t happy to find them alone together.

When he makes his feelings clear, Patrick and Yolande have a huge row, and she refuses to let him attend the fundraiser.

Just before the event, Yolande is alone in the kitchen at the Community Centre, when Pastor Clayton finds her and sexually assaults her.

Following the horrifying attack, Yolande seeks solace in the launderette, where she confides in Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe). Will she be able to help her in the aftermath of the ordeal?

Speaking about taking on this storyline, actress Angela Wynter said: ‘It’s important to tell stories like this as sexual abuse is something that happens too often in our society, and ever has it been the case.