David Essex has had a successful recording career

Essex - who had hits in the 1970s with songs including Hold Me Close - will join the soap for a fixed period early next year.

Essex said: "Coming from the East End it will be good to go back there."

Executive producer Kate Harwood said: "David is an extremely gifted and charismatic actor. Jack is going to bring some real sparkle to the square."

'Exciting'

Essex's character will arrive in Albert Square early next year as the father of new character Honey (played by Emma Barton), during an important time in her life.

Ms Harwood added: "Following the great news about Phil Daniels, this is another exciting signing for the show."

Essex rose to fame in the early 1970s with his role as Jesus in Godspell.

He went on to star in the lead role of David Puttnam's seminal rock film, That'll Be The Day, and its sequel Stardust.

Various TV and musical roles followed and he was awarded an OBE in 1999 for recognition of his services to charity.