Emmerdale's Ross Barton loses all hope for his future tonight (March 28) after a humiliating encounter at The Woolpack.

Ross tries his best to start rebuilding his life in Wednesday night's episode, but it's not long before he suffers another sad setback.

Despite the bad news he's received over acid attacker Simon McManus planning to plead not guilty, Ross finally starts to feel more positive and decides that it's time to stop hiding himself away.

Pete couldn't be more proud of his brother when Ross decides to head over to the pub for a drink, but he's clearly nervous about being out in public again.


Rhona Goskirk and Pete Barton at the pub in Emmerdale
© ITV

Despite his early fears, Ross's confidence is given a much-needed boost when an attractive woman starts chatting him up.

Unfortunately, the lady in question has actually made a cruel bet with her friends and doesn't really want anything to do with Ross.

As Ross's self-esteem hits an all-time low when the harsh truth is revealed, he's left right back at square one, and he soon makes a reckless move that's bound to end in trouble.


Ross Barton visits The Woolpack in Emmerdale
© ITV

Michael Parr, who plays Ross, explained: "Ross has found it very hard to leave the house, let alone go to a public place where he's on display. He feels like everyone is looking at him all the time.

"When he finally plucks up the courage to go to the pub with Pete, there's a girl there who leads him on. She's making fun of Ross behind his back and teasing him.

"This makes things even worse for Ross, because he didn't want to leave the house and he blames everyone for forcing him to do it when he knew it was a bad idea.

"It knocks Ross's confidence. His confidence was low to begin with, but now it's right back down to zero again."

Digital Spy