Lacey Turney has scooped the 'Best Soap Actress' gong at tonight's TV Choice Awards, whilst Dame Barbara Windsor received a special award for her portrayal of the iconic Peggy Mitchell. The ceremony saw the biggest names in television being honoured at a star-studded event held at London's Dorchester hotel.
Dame Barbara said she was "absolutely delighted" to receive the Outstanding Contribution to Television Award.
"It is such an honour to be recognised by TV Choice and it had not been something I ever expected to receive so I am extremely grateful," she revealed.
"I have been in the business for over 66 years and I have been fortunate to have been involved in some truly outstanding productions that all mean so much to me, so to know that they also mean a lot to the audience is extremely touching.
"Everyone knows how much love I have for EastEnders and that show has played such a pivotal part in my career, without it I may not be receiving this award.
Although Peggy may no longer be with us, she and the show will never leave my heart."
Walford stalwart Peggy, who had been played by Dame Barbara since 1994, took her own life after being diagnosed with terminal cancer in scenes broadcast in May.
