EastEnders’ Stacey Slater is seen breaking down in tears in new filming pictures on Thursday as the Albert Square residents gathered for Martin Fowler’s funeral.

The beloved character, played by James Bye, was tragically killed off during the BBC soap’s 40th anniversary live episode earlier this month, having been crushed by a steel beam following an explosion at the Queen Vic.

And in the aftermath of the tragedy, the cast and crew gathered on location at a cemetery as Walford prepared to say an emotional goodbye to the market stall holder.

Leading the cast was Stacey actress Lacey Turner, who appeared emotional drained while filming scenes as her grieving character, who was by Martin’s side as he died. 

The character was seen being comforted by mum Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) amid the tearful graveside scenes.

Meanwhile, Martin’s daughter Bex Fowler also made her return to Walford for his funeral, with actress Jasmine Armfield reprising her role. 

EastEnders ‘ Stacey Slater is seen breaking down in tears in new filming pictures on Thursday as the Albert Square residents gathered for Martin Fowler’s funeral

Martin’s daughter Bex Fowler also made her return to Walford for his funeral, with actress Jasmine Armfield reprising her role

The beloved character, played by James Bye , was tragically killed off during the BBC soap’s 40th anniversary live episode earlier this month, having been crushed by a steel beam 

After years spent travelling, Bex reunited with her family at the service, including mum Sonia (Natalie Cᴀssidy) and aunt Bianca (Patsy Palmer).

Vicky Fowler, played by newcomer Alice Haig, was also spotted looking emotional at the funeral, with the character making a comeback after years living in America.

Also gathered at the scene is Martin’s wider family Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) and Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt), as well as other pals and residents. 

All dressed in black and huddling under umbrellas, the cast braved the rainy weather as they continued to shoot the heartbreaking scenes. 

After being the first ever baby to be born on the show, Martin was tragically killed following an explosion at the Queen Vic.

Following his heroic attempt to rescue his longtime love Stacey Slater, he was crushed by a falling beam.

At first, it appeared that Martin had been successfully rescued from underneath the beam, but his heart then stopped as firefighters rushed to try and save him.

His ex-wife Stacey was left in floods of tears as Martin died in front of her eyes just moments after he declared his love for her and proposed.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the cast and crew gathered on location at a cemetery as Walford prepared to say an emotional goodbye to the market stall holder

Leading the cast was Stacey actress Lacey Turner, who appeared emotional drained while filming scenes as her grieving character, who was by Martin’s side as he died

The character was seen being comforted by mum Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) amid the tearful graveside scenes

The emotional scenes will see Stacey struggling to cope with her loss 

Lacey, who only gave birth last month, looked downcast amid filming the depressing scenes

After years spent travelling, Bex reunited with her family at the service, including mum Sonia (Natalie Cᴀssidy) and aunt Bianca (Patsy Palmer)

Actress Jasmine Armfield braved the rain as she reprised her role as Martin’s eldest daughter

Natalie Cᴀssidy was by the graveside as Sonia bid farewell to her ex-husband

Vicky Fowler, played by newcomer Alice Haig, was also spotted looking emotional at the funeral, with the character making a comeback after years living in America

Martin’s girlfriend Ruby Allen, played by Louisa Lytton, was also in attendance

Also gathered at the scene is Martin’s wider family Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) and Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt), as well as other pals and residents

Read More FIRST LOOK at EastEnders star James Bye’s new role as Mr Darcy – days after Martin Fowler was killed

The heartbreaking episode ended with Stacey hugging Martin’s lifeless body while her screams could be heard by those waiting outside the Queen Vic for news. 

Viewers were quick to take to X – formerly known as Twitter – to share their devastation and shock over Martin’s death as they admitted they were in mourning.

The comments included: ‘EastEnders got me crying like this’; ‘It was LIVE. They could’ve stopped it happening’;

‘That’s so wicked that they killed off Martin’; ‘I’m not f**king okay after that’; ‘Actually sobbing at EastEnders’; ‘I’m taking time off work for grief. That scream will haunt me’;

‘That was unbearable to watch’; ‘I will never forgive #EastEnders BRING BACK MARTIN AND BRING HIM BACK NOW.’

Martin first arrived in Walford on July 30, 1985, and was first played by Jon Peyton-Price and then James Alexandrou, before James Bye took on the role in 2014.

During his 10 years on the soap opera, James has been at the centre of some of EastEnders’ biggest storylines and shared some poignant words upon his exit.

He said: ‘Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years at EastEnders and on the night of the shows epic 40th anniversary – the time felt right. 

‘It’s an honour to leave on a story of this magnitude. A huge thank you to all the fans of the show – EastEnders wouldn’t be what it is without you – and to the BBC and EastEnders team for trusting me with this role for so many years. 

‘This fruit and veg man will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s time to look forward, and I’m incredibly excited for what the future holds. RIP Martin Fowler.’

All dressed in black and huddling under umbrellas, the cast braved the rainy weather as they continued to shoot the heartbreaking scenes

Cast including Thomas Law (Peter Beale) and Shane Richie (Alfie Moon) were seen on location

Jasmine looked in great spirits after reuniting with her old colleagues

Jean Slater looked glum as she sat on a bench

She was soon joined by Alfie as they chatted together

Kathy and Ian were there to pay their respects 

Bianca attended the funeral of pal Martin

The Walford residents gathered to say goodbye to Martin

It was a glum and dreary day for the funeral scenes

Meanwhile, Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw added: ‘It’s incredibly sad to say goodbye to James, who has been a much loved loyal company member for 10 years. 

‘James’ performance in tonight’s live episode was nothing short of outstanding and one that I know will touch so many of you watching at home due to his loveable portrayal of Martin Fowler, which has made him a firm favourite amongst the viewers. 

‘When discussing James’ exit, we knew that we needed to give Martin Fowler the big explosive storyline that his character deserved. 

‘To leave the show in such an emotional storyline, during a live episode is something incredibly courageous to do as an actor, and one that I’m sure will cement itself in EastEnders’ history. 

‘I would like to thank James for everything he’s given to EastEnders, and although we will all miss him here at Elstree, he will always remain a member of the EastEnders family and we wish him the best for the future.’