EastEnders retains the Christmas Day crown for BBC One in 2012

EastEnders triumphed as BBC One kept tradition by coming out on top on Christmas Day.

EastEnders was the most watched programme on Christmas Day in 2012, with a peak audience of 9.8 million tuning in to discover Max's secret on BBC One, making it an average audience of 9.4million/34.3 per cent share.

BBC One triumphed with four of the top five most popular programmes, and seven of the top ten shows on Christmas day.

BBC One's Christmas Day schedule proved a huge hit with audiences who enjoyed special episodes from the very best in drama, comedy and entertainment. From Strictly Come Dancing, Doctor Who, Call The Midwife and The Royle Family.

It was an incredibly strong performance for the channel with both peak time and all hours share the best since 2010, helping to round off an incredible year on BBC One.

BBC One's peak time average audience and all day average audience were both higher than any other channel.

Danny Cohen, Controller, BBC One says: "It's been brilliant to see so many viewers watching BBC One on Christmas Day. Audiences tuned in for unmissable special episodes of their favourite shows, with EastEnders topping the table as the most popular show of the day peaking at 9.8million viewers. We have many more television treats for viewers to enjoy on BBC One over the rest of the festive season."

Peak share (6pm-10.30pm)
BBC One - 8.0m/31.7 per cent
ITV 1 - 6.5/25.6 per cent

All hours share (6am-12midnight)
BBC One - 4.0/27.2 per cent
ITV1 - 2.6m/18.1 per cent