Celebs Go Dating’s Dean Gaffney reveals he ‘always had a sausage in his pocket’ when working with EastEnders dog Wellard

DEAN Gaffney has revealed that he used to “always have a sausage in his pocket” when working with EastEnders dog Wellard.

The 42-year-old star shared some tricks of the trade during tonight’s episode of Celebs Go Dating.

Dean shot to fame at the age of 15 when he landed the role of Robbie Jackson in the BBC One soap.

Wellard was Robbie’s faithful companion for much of his time in Albert Square – and CGD receptionist Tom Read Wilson couldn’t resist asking about him in tonight’s episode of the E4 dating series.

While Dean was waiting to meet with the dating experts, Tom said: “I have been so excited about you.

“I grew up watching you, and Wellard – your trusty companion. Now, you must tell me, I want one secret.”

The actor replied: “I would always have treats, like little chipolata sausages, in my pocket.”

Tom cheekily repeated: “You’d always have a sausage in your pocket, eh?”

And voiceover comic Rob Beckett joked in response: “Yeah, apparently that’s why Dot Cotton refused to any scenes with him – or wash his clothes.”

Shaggy Belgian Tervuren Wellard was a fan favourite in EastEnders, and he remained by Robbie’s side until Dean first left the soap in 2003.

The pooch was killed off in 2008, and when Dean’s character returned briefly in 2015 he was joined by Wellard II — a second dog named in honour of his old four-legged pal.

Unfortunately, Wellard II hasn’t been back since, and Dean’s final appearance as Robbie was last year.