EastEnders is reportedly set to kill off a major character next month.

The Sun report that the tragedy will strike after Mick and Linda Carter throw a party on a boat after winning a major contest, with one character falling off the vessel and drowning. The characters who are said to be at risk include Sharon Mitchell, Mick Carter and Ian Beale. The episodes - which are set to air in late February, according to the publication - will focus on the 24 hours as the guests board the party boat. “Where better place for a major death than on the Thames itself, which is so central to the show," an insider told the publication. “Trouble has been brewing in Walford for a while, and they decided it was the perfect occasion to see off a big name." The source added that while Sharon is thought to give birth as part of the dramatic scenes, she is "just one of many who could see themselves go overboard to an icy, watery death.” EastEnders is set to bring some serious drama to celebrate its 35th anniversary next month. The BBC soap first aired on February 19, 1985. And, as the milestone nears, producer Jon Sen said they were keen to incorporate the Thames - which features in EastEnders' opening credits - into the special episodes. "We wanted to entertain the audience on the iconic river which has heralded the start of the show for 35 years," he told the publication.