Debbie Bates (nee Palmer, previously Tyler) made her first appearance on 25 May 1993. She is portrayed by Nicola Duffett.
Storylines[]
Debbie first appears in Walford in May 1993 as a friend of Tracey. She becomes a love interest for Nigel Bates when she meets him at his birthday party. Debbie and her daughter Clare Tyler move nearby to escape Debbie's husband Liam Tyler, who has been abusing her. Liam eventually tracks Debbie down and makes several attempts to break up Nigel and Debbie but is unsuccessful. Debbie and Clare both move to Walford to live with Nigel.
In July 1994, Debbie marries Nigel and they are content in marriage. She starts working at the local bookmakers but her boss, Stan Dougan, constantly tries to flirt with her, which she dislikes. She keeps this a secret from Nigel but when Stan makes a move on her she quickly rejects him and quits her job. Nigel is suspicious of Debbie suddenly quitting but eventually finds out Stan has been harassing her, so he punches Stan.
Tragedy strikes soon after when Debbie is killed in a hit-and-run accident in June 1995. Police tell Nigel that she walked out into a road and someone hit her at speed, killing her instantly. Debbie's death devastates Nigel and Clare for some time. Nigel goes on to adopt Clare after Liam returns and is unsuccessful in his attempt to gain custody of her.
On the 13th anniversary of Debbie's death in 2008, Clare and Dot Branning visit her grave.
Gallery[]
.jpg "Debbie Bates Grave (24 June 2008).jpg (309 KB)")
(24 June 2008)