"THERE'LL BE LOTS OF FIREWORKS'

Michael Parr on returning to Emmerdale as bad boy Ross Barton after six years - and how not everyone is happy to see him back in the village

- ALICE PENWILL

Ross Barton has been away from the Dales for six years after sailing off into the sunset with Rebecca White. He was looking for a fresh start after suffering a traumatic acid attack, and tragically losing three family members.

Now, he has landed back with a bang – or rather, a punch. As actor Michael Parr reprises his role, he reveals not a lot has changed, apart from Ross’ boxing hobby.

“Ross has taken up bareknuckle fighting,” says Michael, 38. “It’s a very violent and traumatic job, but there’s a financial motive. And I’m sure it makes a good impression on girls to say that he’s a fighter.”

Ross left with Rebecca (played by Emily Head), but he returns alone and Michael reveals we’ll have to wait to find out what happened between them. However, there is another woman in Ross’ life. Jade (Twinnie-Lee Moore) guides him around the world of unlicensed boxing, and she’s not someone to be messed with.

“Jade is the one wearing the trousers in their relationship,” say Michael. “She’s very imposing when she’s got her heels on and is surrounded by gangsters. Ross has really met his match with Jade – he isn’t the sharpest knife in the drawer.”

Ross returns to Emmerdale after meeting Billy Fletcher (Jay Kontzle) in the ring – but he receives a mixed reception in the village.