Emmerdale villain Ray Walters risks the wrath of evil Celia Daniels later this month – as he expresses genuine concern for Bear Wolf’s health. After the recent tragic loss of Anya on Celia’s farm, is there a danger that history could repeat itself?

Recent episodes have explored how Ray has spent years under the stern control of his mother figure Celia. However, when he had a chance to come good by helping tormented teens April Windsor and Dylan Penders this week, he didn’t take it and landed them both in major trouble.

In current episodes, Dylan is still fighting for his life in hospital after Ray deliberately ran him down in the road. Meanwhile, April’s situation is looking more bleak than ever before, as Celia is now threatening her family in a desperate bid to keep her under control.

Later this month, Ray becomes alarmed when he spots that a wound on Bear’s arm seems to be getting worse.

Ray suggests taking Bear to a professional to get it looked at properly, but this idea goes down badly with Celia…

“Celia firmly forbids Ray from taking Bear anywhere near a doctor,” our Emmerdale source explains. “While Ray reckons he can pull the trip off without arousing suspicion, Celia refuses to entertain the idea.

“Celia has no concern for any of the workers who’ve been forced to do her bidding on the farm. She doesn’t care whether they live or die, whereas Ray can’t help feeling a strange bond with Bear.”

In the aftermath of Celia’s decision, Ray’s unhappy with the outcome of the conversation.

But will Ray disobey Celia’s orders by getting Bear’s arm looked at properly?

“Ray is at a crossroads,” our Emmerdale insider adds. “There’s not much chance of a full redemption any time soon after the horrendous crimes he’s committed against April and Dylan, but perhaps there’s still an opportunity for him to do the right thing for Bear.

“We’ve already seen some tell-tale moments suggesting that Ray wants to escape from Celia’s grip – he’d love to be able to focus on his new relationship with Laurel. But when it comes down to it, will he ever be brave enough to defy Celia?”