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'I WAS LUCKY'

EastEnders star Gillian Taylforth’s ex only survived being shot in stomach ‘because gangster’s gun misfired’

EASTENDERS star Gillian Taylforth’s ex-fiancé says he only survived being shot in the stomach after his would-be killer’s weapon misfired.

Dave Fairbairn, 64, was gunned down as he met gangsters who had allegedly threatened to target him and burn down the soap actress’s home.

Gillian Taylforth’s ex-fiancé Dave Fairbairn says he survived being shot in the stomach because the weapon misfired
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Gillian Taylforth’s ex-fiancé Dave Fairbairn says he survived being shot in the stomach because the weapon misfiredCredit: Rex Features
Gangsters allegedly threatened to burn down EastEnders star Gillian’s home
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Gangsters allegedly threatened to burn down EastEnders star Gillian’s homeCredit: WARNING: Use of this image is subject to the terms of use of BBC Pictures' Digital Picture

Today the dad of two had an emergency op to remove the bullet.

And as police quizzed him in hospital for the first time since Sunday’s shooting, he insisted he had only wanted to protect Gillian, also 64.

Fairbairn told a pal: “All I can remember is this bang, then lots of clicking.

“I think the trigger was being pulled again and again.

LUCKY ESCAPE

"I was lucky some people found me and called the ambulance.”

The Sun told yesterday how Fairbairn, who is on police bail over an alleged cannabis factory at his home, was shot at close range in woodland in Enfield, North London.

Sources say he had a lucky escape as the bullet missed vital organs.

One said: “He’s beginning to realise how serious this is.

The car park of the Toby Carvery was cordoned off - near to where the shooting is said to have taken place
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The car park of the Toby Carvery was cordoned off - near to where the shooting is said to have taken placeCredit: David New - The Sun

"He just wanted to protect Gillian and his family from any more threats.”

Gillian — Kathy Beale in the BBC soap — was said to be in shock at the news.

The pair called off their wedding in December but have stayed close.

Fairbairn and actress Gillian called off their wedding in December but have stayed close
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Fairbairn and actress Gillian called off their wedding in December but have stayed closeCredit: Splash News
The soap star - who plays Kathy Beale - was said to be in shock at the news
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The soap star - who plays Kathy Beale - was said to be in shock at the newsCredit: BBC
EastEnders star Gillian Taylforth’s ex shot in stomach after confronting gangsters who threatened to burn down her house

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