Emmerdale's Chris Chittell and Lesley Dunlop real-life marriage and on-screen drama

TV stars Chris Chittell and Lesley Dunlop, renowned for their roles as Eric Pollard and Brenda Walker in the popular British soap Emmerdale, are set to experience an exciting storyline this Christmas.

Their characters are gearing up for a heartwarming festive wedding after Eric surprised Brenda with an engagement ring and plans for a Christmas ceremony.

However, their joy could be challenged as other dramatic events unravel in the village, with secrets and tensions potentially overshadowing their special day.

Viewers are keen to see how the pair will handle the blend of romance and drama that Emmerdale is famous for during the festive period. Yet, off-screen, actors Chris and Lesley share a loving marriage despite their on-screen ups and downs, reports Leeds Live.

Away from the cameras, Chris and Lesley have been blissfully married since June 18, 2016. Their love story began on the set of Emmerdale, leading to their engagement in 2015 and subsequent marriage the next year.

Their nuptials were a private event, attended by close family and friends. Both have children from previous relationships.

Chris was formerly married to Caroline Hunt for 26 years before they separated in 2005, while Lesley has two daughters from a past relationship.

In an interview conducted four years before their wedding, Chris discussed how his relationship with Lesley evolved.

Speaking to the Daily Record, he said: 'It was weird. Somehow, we'd never met before, and we just kept bumping into each other at work.

"I can't even remember if I asked her for a date or she asked me but she is wonderful and we're very happy."

"For some people, working together would be a nightmare but we love it. We make a point of not talking about Emmerdale when we're at