© Rex Features / Ken McKay

EastEnders star Shane Richie has described the recent controversy over the baby swap storyline as “unfair”.

The actor, who plays Alfie Moon in the BBC One soap, dismissed claims that Samantha Womack quit because of the plot and said that viewers who didn’t like the scenes should have turned over.

“A remote control is there for a reason – to change channel if you don’t like what you are watching,” he told The People. “Sam did not quit over the storyline, she was always going to leave.

“And the cast really enjoyed filming the scenes. Everyone was very supportive. It was unfair the show got a kicking. It has dealt with tough storylines over the years violence, child abuse, rape and I applaud it for challenging people’s reactions.”

Speaking of David Essex joining the cast as Alfie’s estranged uncle, he added: “David will be great. I’ve met him before, years ago though. But he’s a lovely guy and a proper East-Ender so it will be an honour to have him in the show.”