Peter Beale is returning to 'EastEnders'.

The role of Ian Beale's son - the twin of Lucy Beale (Hetti Bywater) - has been recast, with Ben Hardy taking over the part from Thomas Law, who played the teenager until he departed Albert Square in December 2010 after learning his father had been cheating on then-wife Jane.

Ben is thrilled to have landed the role, and can't wait to get started on the show.

He said: "I'm really excited to be joining the fantastic cast of 'EastEnders' - a show which my family have watched for years. I can't wait to step into the shoes of a character with so much history and am looking forward to getting stuck in."

Programme bosses believe the return of Peter will help "reinvigorate" the Beale family.

Executive producer Lorraine Newman said: "Ben's a wonderful addition to the 'EastEnders' cast and I am sure he will be popular with the audience. Having Peter back in the Beale fold helps cement the next generation of the Beale clan, a family who exist at the true heart of the show. Ian's wonderful relationship with Denise and the inclusion of Lucy, Peter and Bobby in the household with reinvigorate the clan with vibrancy and energy. I am really looking forward to seeing them all together on screen."