EastEnders to screen live episode

The special episode will mark the soap's 25th anniversary

BBC One soap EastEnders is to broadcast its first live episode to mark the programme's 25th anniversary next year.

Plot details have yet to be announced, but producers promised viewers "high drama and excitement" as a major storyline will be concluded.

The 30-minute episode will crown a week of special shows to celebrate Albert Square's milestone birthday.

It will be broadcast live from the BBC's Elstree studios on Friday 19 February 2010 at 2000 GMT.

'Big test'

EastEnders executive producer, Diederick Santer said: "It's too early to discuss the exact storyline at this point, but viewers are assured that this live episode will bring them all the high drama and excitement they expect from EastEnders and then some.

"The episode will feature - amongst other things - the resolution to a big storyline which will keep the audience (as well as the cast and crew) guessing until the very last moment."

He added: "It's a big test for every member of the production here, and hopefully a big treat for the audience."

Other shows including ER, The Bill and Coronation Street have all screened live episodes of their series in the past.