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Thousands of people have praised Hollyoaks, after their thought-provoking episode aired on Channel 4 tonight.

The episode, which first aired on E4 on Friday, saw newly-single Ellie meet a man in a bar, before waking up the morning after distressed to learn they had slept together.

Ellie Nightingale, played by Sophie Porley, is left traumatised after Nick Savage, played by Ben Ryan-Davies crosses the line after the night in Fresher's Week.

During the episode Ellie meets Nick at a traffic light party at The Loft and kisses him, as she tries to get back at her ex boyfriend Freddie.

The pair continue to flirt in the bar and Ellie invites him back to her house, while very drunk.

Ellie then passes out on the bed while being kissed by Nick.

But the next morning the reality of what has happened hits home and Ellie kicks a confused Nick out before sobbing on her bed.

(Image: Lime Pictures)

The writers have worked with Rape Crisis and The Mix on the sensitive episode and lots of people commended the soap on their treatment of the important issue.

Hundreds of people took to twitter after the episode to voice their reactions.

Over the next few weeks Nick will be confused as Ellie acts strangely around him.