NIGEL Bates has been left for dead in horror attack in EastEnders today.
The vulnerable pensioner – who is played by actor Paul Bradley in the BBC soap – is suffering from young onset and has been struggling to cope.
In today’s episode he was forced to come clean to pal Phil Mitchell about his plans to end his own life before he loses a sense of himself totally.
But after Phil’s own suicide attempt and mental health struggles, he was horrified and lashed out – washing his hands of Nigel.
And while Phil tried to work through his emotions by speaking to Linda Carter, Nigel turned to Jean Slater and decided it was time for him to leave Walford.
As Phil returned home – ready to deal with Nigel’s own struggles – he found a note from Nigel saying goodbye.
It read: “I never wanted to be a burden to anyone. I’m sorry. Your friend, Nigel.”;
As Phil searched the house desperately for his vulnerable friend, outside Nigel was accosted by a gang of thugs.
“Homeless loser, init,”; they shouted to the confused man.
Nigel struggled to speak as they surrounded him and grabbed at his bag.
“Let go!”; he shouted as they took it from him and pushed him to the ground.
But as he crashed down, he hit his head on the kerb and was left writhing in agony as the thugs ran off laughing.
Nigel was left for dead on the cold night but will he be found? Or will he get what he thinks he wants in ending his life?
