Eric Pollard (Chris Chittell) is already battling multiple health issues, and when another strikes, he’ll be grateful for an Emmerdale newcomer’s presence.

It came to light during the barn fire that uber secretive John (Oliver Farnworth) has been harbouring a secret past where he acted as a medic in the army. His skills were discovered through his heroic antics as the barn went up in smoke.

Moira’s barn at Butlers burned with her and Ruby (Beth Cordingly) trapped inside, and when John discovered what was going on, he didn’t hesitate for a second in trying to break the door down before heading into the flames to rescue those trapped.

His heroics impressed those around him, which is how his army medic background came to light.

That’s one mystery surrounding the newcomer solved, and it turns out these past skills will come in super handy when Eric experiences his latest health event.

Eric collapses with severe chest pain. Recognising the signs, John springs into action to help prevent Pollard’s angina attack.

Liam praises John, who struggles to accept the compliments, and Liam makes him a huge offer – a job at Brook Surgery.

This is mega because John – the man so keen to get on the road and put Emmerdale behind him – considers the offer and accepts it.

With that, John decides he will not be leaving the village after all. Is he starting to thaw?