Emmerdale producers have confirmed that a "devastating" storyline will be taking place next week.

Ross Barton will suffer an acid attack at the hands of drug dealer, Simon McManus, which will see him rushed to hospital. A case of mistaken identity will trigger the chain of events as Debbie Dingle tries to get back at Joe Tate, asking Simon to "mess him up." However, Simon mistakes Ross for Joe and throws acid in his face, leaving Ross screaming in agony. Digital Spy reports that actor Michael Parr, who plays Ross in the soap, has said that the attack will have "devastating" effects on his character.

He said:

"It's a big responsibility and one that I was very nervous about taking on. I know it's a reality for some people and it's so important to get it right and do the story justice.

"The Emmerdale team have done extensive research and we really want to raise awareness of the devastating consequences an attack like this has on a person's life."

Reports that producers had been researching acid attacks emerged late last year, however, this is the first confirmation fans have on the specifics of the storyline. Parr had also previously stated that his character was gearing up for his "biggest plot yet." Fans have since taken to Twitter to discuss the storyline, with some wondering how much of an effect the attack will have on Ross. https://twitter.com/Love4Coira/status/958220900754771968 https://twitter.com/emmerdalemags/status/958121867524624384 https://twitter.com/Iucybrown/status/958116478552887297 https://twitter.com/MichaelStace98/status/958282590330351619 The acid attack is set to happen on the show next week.