Emmerdale actress Charlotte Bellamy has been reflecting on what’s been a difficult few weeks for her character, and what’s ahead now Laurel Thomas’ relationship with Jai Sharma (Chris Bisson) has been destroyed.

Recently in the ITV soap, Laurel grew suspicious of Jai, who was getting into arguments with Eric Pollard (Chris Chittell) while at The Hide.

As Eric wound Jai up over free drinks, he eventually snapped, but it happened right in front of Laurel.

Back at home, Jai was backed into a corner and knew he had no choice but to reveal his secret. He went on to tell Laurel that before his biological father Amit left the village, he got revenge after learning how Rishi really died.

When Jai learnt the truth about Amit and the fact he’s a corrupt businessman, he told him to hand over his shares in HOP!, leave for India and never return.

Listening to her husband and discovering what he’s capable of when pushed to the very edge absolutely horrified Laurel. Shortly after this revelation, the stress became too much and she experienced a heart attack.

It’s been quite the few weeks for Laurel. As she recovered in hospital, she made it clear to Jai that they wouldn’t continue their marriage but for some reason, he doesn’t seem to be getting the message!

‘I don’t think there’s any way back for them as a couple now, sadly…’, actress Charlotte Bellamy said during a chat with Inside Soap.

‘No, she is sticking to her guns without a doubt. Also, she thinks about the goodness of Ashley, her late husband, and how no one will ever compare to him. He was sort of saintly, whereas Jai is a rotter!’

‘Her heart attack made her recalibrate her life and see things for what they are’, she added.

‘That coincided with finding out what Jai did with Amit and taking the shares in the business and all of that, she’s seen her husband for what he is. Laurel has a second chance at life, does she really want to be with a man like that?’

Pondering over Laurel’s future, Charlotte is looking forward to seeing her character navigate life as a single mum.

‘I think that would be interesting to explore. She represents a lot of women in their early 50s who are on their own and raising kids.

‘I’m sure she’ll have some dalliances, and maybe even try online dating, but as for another long-term relationship I’m not sure. Going on the journey with her now she’s single might be nice to see.’