Arrival of actress in EastEnders welcomed

Civic leaders in Telford have welcomed their town's latest spell in the spotlight - thanks to the newest character in hit BBC soap EastEnders.The latest character to arrive in Albert Square, pretty 19-year-old Danielle Jones, made the town known to millions of viewers across the world when she revealed her Shropshire roots during her debut appearance on Monday.

The blonde, played by Birmingham actress Lauren Crace, arrived at Walford's market looking for a job and and described her home town as somewhere "between Wales and Birmingham" to bemused stallholder Stacey.

Councillor Miles Hosken, former Telford mayor, said: "I think it's wonderful Telford has been mentioned on national TV."

Councillor Hosken said it was about time that TV scriptwriters took note of the town, which is celebrating its 40th birthday this year.

"I'm rather surprised that we have not been put on the national map before," he said.

"I think it's a cracking place and I am keen people come and see what we have to offer. We are universally known for the Iron Bridge and there is a lot going on with the new railway and development of the town centre.

"Shropshire is a beautiful county and we are a progressive part of it."

Sarah Raper, chief executive of economic development company Transforming Telford, which is spearheading the regeneration of the town, also welcomed the news.

"We hope the new character will portray Telford in a positive light and increase national awareness of the town," he said.

Councillor Eric Carter, Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member for regeneration, also welcomed the news of the popular soap's newest character. "There are a lot of people working to put Telford on the map and this will help," he said.