EastEnders fans were left “heartbroken” after much-loved character Lauren Branning made her final appearance on the soap as her sister Abi was laid to rest.

Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) is departing for a new life in Scotland weeks after she was left hospitalised and Abi (Lorna Fitzgerald) died following a tragic fall from the top of the Queen Vic pub.

Their mother, Tanya, also returned for Lauren’s finale which saw them endure the funeral before the latter was shown walking away from the church with her son Louie.

Moments earlier, she had vowed to live her life to the full for the sake of Abi in moving scenes with her father Max Branning (Jake Wood).

Jossa first took over the role from Madeline Duggan in 2010 and wrote “I will miss you Lauren Branning” in a post on Twitter following Friday night’s episode.

Viewers were left in tears by the emotional episode as they said goodbye to two of the show’s most popular characters.

@Jogonecrazy tweeted: “It’s heartbreaking tonight poor Tanya & Lauren @dollyjoyner & @jacquelineMjos saying goodbye to Abi @LornaFitz0 you’ll be missed of our screens.”

@LouisDolan wrote: “Wish i wasnt breaking my heart at eastenders but here i am.”

@AlexJenkins14 posted: “On the sofa under a blanket crying into my glass of wine at EastEnders.”

@Nikkiphilpott3 tweeted: “What a very touching send off for Abi on #EastEnders tears all round! So moving, such brilliant acting as always.”

EastEnders returns on Monday.