EastEnders star Clare Perkins has praised the soap for tackling the issue of street gangs.

The actress, who plays Ava Hartman, explained that she personally relates to the storyline because she has known victims of gang violence.

"I've always lived in London, and there have been times when it felt like you were waking up every day to the news that another young person had been stabbed," Perkins told The Sun.

"I have known youngsters who have lost their lives. I don't want to get too personal about it, but it is something that I'm passionate about. It's just senseless.

"I think it's really important for EastEnders to raise the issue of gangs."

Perkins has just had her EastEnders contract extended for another six months.

She added: "I feel really settled in. I've really bonded with Khali Best, who plays Ava's son Dexter. We have such a laugh - I call him son and he calls me mum!

"It's also been great to work with Patsy Palmer [Bianca] on this storyline. Patsy is nothing like Bianca at all, she's really sweet and really funny."