EastEnders’ fairground collapse (2004)
Albert Square’s centenary celebrations ground to a horrifying halt when a helter-skelter ride collapsed in the middle of the festivities, sending residents dashing for cover. Dot and Pauline were trapped in a Portakabin amidst the wreckage – and their temporary incarceration provoked the full gamut of nostalgia clichés, including mentions of the Blitz, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, and shots of Arfur’s special crisis bench. Thankfully, no one was killed – although Ian, Spencer and several talentless child actors were hospitalised with minor injuries. Worst off was pregnant Lynne Hobbs, who lost her unborn child and had to have a hysterectomy after being hit by falling debris.