Written by Phil Woods Directed by Ian Bevitt
Emily is collecting clothes from Maxine but Ashley fetches the bag which has been left for collection. It looks like a very full bag of clothes.
Kev and Tyrone are looking at a car which might suit the latter, sadly the pups have not raised enough cash and Tyrone is short on the readies - he only has £900 and the car is worth £1200. They sit on the bonnet to ponder a solution.
At the Platts David is tired - awake all night with the baby crying. David is still moaning about Bethany.
It is Gary's moving day and he has cooked a breakfast for Paula who has come to help. Eileen wanders past and offers to eat it but Gary is not changing horses at this point - the story of Eileen's life she reckons! However, although Paula's arrival time has come and gone she has not. Gary is not using the Post Office to forward his mail - he has made other arrangements he tells Norris. Gary's phone has been disconnected and he has not heard from Paula. He heads to the Rovers looking for Paula where the rumours about the buyers of his house are being discussed. Vera had heard from Jack that the house had sold and that a nice couple have bought it - apparently they used to be in the pub trade, so Natalie will have to look to her laurels. Apparently they are local - in fact Vera announces that she and Jack have bought it - back where they started.
Hayley and Roy are discussing the tactics of adoption - they would prefer a baby but may be offered anything. Roy does not want to seem choosy - Roy would prefer a baby so that he could learn as the child grows.
Phil Simmons comes in for a bite and a half - he is thinking of taking Duggie to court.
Round at Gary's everything is packed but Paula has still not appeared and there is no message. Vera arrives and hears the story. Gary is quite distressed. The removal man is told to vanish until Gary calls him. Gary cries on Eileen's shoulder when she pops in to see how things are going.
Tyrone and Maria's father are discussing the purchase of a car. Tyrone tells him that he cannot afford a car and the ring he has promised Maria. Well she won't know a diamond from plastic - so no need to lash out on the ring is there? Tyrone is left to think on.
Gary is not happy - he reckons it is his fate not ever see Paula again and that the whole relationship has failed. He never has any luck. Elaine seeks to re-assure him.
Now David is complaining to Sarah and so Sarah complains to Gail. David reckons that Sarah and Bethany are the reason that Gail and Martin are splitting up. Sarah decides to tell David the truth about Martin's affair so that the right person gets the blame - the affair was before Bethany was born so she is not to blame. Martin's expressionless face is left to say nothing!
Eileen knocks on the Rovers window and Gary comes out to be told that Paula has rung Streetcars, she is on the bus, she has apologised and will be there soon. Gary looks relieved.
Gail is trying to reassure David - it will be all right. Why does Martin not like her any more. Martin cannot explain - these things happen. Is Martin going to marry someone else? No. Why did he do it? Martin and Gail will still live Martin. It happened to Rosie and Sophie. Mums and Dads live in different houses - but they are happy.
Paula arrives and tries to explain. She is sorry but the moment she woke up she realised what a big change it was going to mean to her life. She and some friends had a drink the previous night and the point of no return hit her. She had hen night until 4 am and did not wake up until midday. Gary smiles - the fact that she has turned up means that all is well. Then Paula says - where is the removal man?
Simmons is still in the Rovers eating and telling Toyah what he is planning. Vera is in the Rovers when Gary arrives to recall the removal man. Duggie Ferguson wanders in and meets Simmons. The packing recommences.
Roy and Hayley are discussing - Hayley has been to many, Roy has never been - he is not sure where you sit. Roy was into model aeroplanes. Roy seems to have a lot of doubts about this entire adoption process - an objection or an adverse thought at every turn. Hayley is having to work hard to provide re-assurance and solutions to each and every point.
Gary is buying a farewell drink for everyone in the Rovers. Martin is reading the paper but looks tired, Danny wanders into find him and gets an earful about how everything has gone wrong for him. Martin knows it is his own fault but that does not make it better.
Round at the Platts David is looking after the rabbit when Candice arrives. She knows about divorce and it is not right that he takes it out on the baby and Sarah. Candice lays into David and tells him to leave Sarah and Bethany alone. David remains unhappy but Candice tells him to grow up and accept that parents split up - hers did years ago. But she and her parents are a lot happier now they are apart. David is left to think.
Gary looks round the empty house and takes down a last children's picture. He picks up Judy's picture and kisses it.
Jack and Vera are walking along the Street pushing the twins and looking forward to moving back into their house. Gary hands over the keys to Vera who has a broad smile as she contemplates her future back on the Street. Jack joins Gary for a final pint. Betty re-assures Gary that Judy would give her blessing of his actions - all she has to do is make him happy.
Danny and Martin are discussing his future. There is no chance with Rebecca - she has gone and Martin accepts that. Anyway he has done enough damage. He hopes Danny will be happier than he is.
Maxine finds Ashley in the Rovers - she has returned from her friends and thanks Ash for taking her clothes in the bag to the cleaners. Ashley realises his mistake and givers some cash to buy a drink and dashes out looking for Emily. Max reckons he is going barmy. Norris answers Emily's door and is less than helpful. It appears she has been at the jumble sale this afternoon. I think the clothes are gone!
Gary says his goodbyes to Ash, Max, Vera, Tyrone, Jack and Norris learns that the last three are moving back onto the Street (with Monica of course). Finally Eileen gives him a farewell hug and Gary gives the house one last look before driving off into the distance!!
Bye Gary - you had a rough time on the Street one way and another.
Maxine can look forward to a rather wonderful shopping trip I reckon!
The episode tonight - a bit weak in the way Paula's arrival was done - sorry it did not work for me.
Elsewhere the Roy and Hayley double act is back in full swing - wonderful contributions here.
And David probably needs shooting - somehow I do not feel for him - am I hard hearted tonight? Probably
And finally as someone who is contemplating moving house - I wish it really was as easy as Jack and Vera seem to have managed within a couple of episodes to have bought a house! Amazing.
Next week may arrive on time - you never know!!
One of the factory girls talks to Harvey about Saturday night, and how much she enjoyed it. He tells her not to talk about it to the other girls. She immediately goes over to one of the others, a rival for Harvey's affections, and tells her about planning a honeymoon.
Dougie has received a court letter from the tenant that he had evicted. He accuses Toyah of organising it. She denies it.
Ashley catches up with Emily and asks her about the stuff he gave her for the jumble, which was Maxine's clothes. She says it all went in about 5 minutes and she made £30 in selling it.
Harvey starts to chat up the other factory girl, and suggests they go out together.
Sally gives Gail some toys for Bethanie. Gail tells her that she and Martin are divorcing. Gail says she can't stand being with him anymore. Sally remembers how her Kevin went off with Natalie. She thought she could never forgive him, but now they are good friends. Sally suggests Gail ought to see a counsellor. Gail is against the idea.
The ex-tenant see Toyah and tells her that he knows of other tenants who have also been evicted by Dougie.
Maxine comes into the Kabin for her dry cleaning. Rita says she hasn't got it. Maxine sees one of the girls from the factory. She is wearing a jumper that looks exactly like her own. She was more surprised that she bought it very cheap at a jumble sale.
Sally tells Gail that she caught Danny lying once. Then she lets slips that Danny had told her about Martin. Gail is angry that she knew, and didn't tell her. Gail thinks she could have saved the marriage if she'd know.
Ashley seesd Edna in Maxine's jumper. She says she bought it for a £1. He offers to buy it back for £25.
Gail confronts Martin about the converation with Sally. She is angry that she got her (then) boyfriend to lie for him.
Curly goes with Emma to drinks at the Police Training school. He hears that Emma has been involved with manny dangerous things.
Maxine comes into the Rovers looking for Ashley. He signals to Audrey and Rita that he is not there.
Maxine comes into the Rovers loking for Ashely. He signals to Audrey and Rita that he is not there. After she has gone he says that he fells like he is walking in dead man's shoes. Meanwhile Ashley sees Edna with more of Maxine's cothing. He offers to buy it back. The police colleagues talk about guns, but Emma is vey cool.
Rita talks to Anthony about Sharon. The he talks about his children.
Ashely tells Maxine what has happened. She pulls out of the bag some to the clothes. She doesn't want to wear anything worn by the factory girls.
Toyah confronts Dougie about other teneants he has had inivicted in the past. Douglie loses his temper and shouts.
Jack, Vera and Tyrone are moving into No. 9. Curly and Emma offer to show them the local facilities; pub, corner shop. Vera says it's like coming home from a long holiday, though they don't have much of a tan, adds Jack. Don't have much furniture either with living in the Rovers and the B&B. They reminisce it's like their early married days, then all go in for a cup of tea.
It's Emma's first day in her new job. Curly is a bit jittery as he's down as next of kin on her form and it's making him worry again about the dangers she faces.
Max's cat slinks past and Monica jumps out of the van after her. Harvey arrives at the factory and Bobbi comes to meet him. He says she's looking hot and he won't be able to concentrate today. She thanks him for the meal and he reminds her again to keep it quiet. Jackie and Karen arrive and tease her for dangling her bait. Janice remarks they've both been doing that, but neither of them have got a nibble yet.
Sally calls out to Gail as she's walking Bethany, but is ignored. Tyrone comes out and finds Monica gone.
There's a furious knocking on the Rover's as Nat and Vinnie are canoodling behind the bar. It's Duggie, waving this morning's Gazette. Rugby Star Plays Dirty in Flat Conversion Deal is the front page story. He had an answerphone message from the reporter, but thought it was something about his playing days and had ignored it. So his side of events is missing and the story is very one-sided. Enter Toyah. He accuses her of defamation of character. That's only if it's not true, she counters.
Danny meets Audrey in the café. As Danny is one of his tenants, she feels it her duty to point out Duggie's dodgy dealings, and suggests he read the paper. It says he's using a heavy to evict tenants. Tyrone rushes in looking for Monica. He isn't reassured when Roy tells him moving house is a stressful time for pets and they often try and return to their former home.
Karen sees Harvey testing a thong. Oh yes, he knows his way round a pair of knickers. After he leaves, Bobbi and Janice tell her they're not impressed with her flirting. Hayley wonders how subtle you're supposed to be. That depends on how thick the bloke is, says Janice. She comments again that for all their efforts, neither of them are getting very far. So Karen reveals that she spent the night with him last Saturday. Why didn't she tell them before? He didn't want you all gossiping. That's funny, he told Bobbi exactly the same thing. But she didn't sleep with him on the first date, she was waiting for New York. Karen calls him a stinking rat.
Rita is checking her window display when Anthony arrives. He wants her to meet his children. All they know about her is she's a friend he goes to the theatre with. They won't bite her, he's brought them up well.
Roy asks David to stop kicking his football against the café wall. So he starts bouncing it on the pavement instead. Does your mother know you're not at school, asks Roy. David says Roy can tell her if he wants, she doesn't care what he does. Roy, thinking of his future fatherhood, tries to be understanding and asks in a very sympathetic voice if anything is the matter. David replies, Nothing, you stupid old git, and runs off.
The girls burst into Harvey's office braying for blood. Karen suggests something she'd like to do with a Big Apple. Harvey wonders why Janice is there. She's the referee, and Hayley the first-aider is outside, just in case. Harvey takes it very calmly. You're both nice girls, you're both unattached. I'm unattached, so no harm done. Hayley arrives at this point to tell him that his fiancée is waiting outside.
Interval
The fiancée is a bit of a dolly-bird, tall and slim with long blonde hair. The girls watch them leave. She has no idea what she's letting herself in for. Janice remarks that no man can resist extra helpings, especially when they're handed to him on a silver platter - looking at Karen.
Tyrone is moping outside the house. Jack assures him that Monica will turn up but now Tyrone thinks that she's gone back to the B&B and got run over. Vera says they've never had any luck in that house and that it's cursed.
In the Rovers Audrey is mouthing off about Duggie, remarking how he treated Tom badly. Debs wonders what this has to do with his business dealings. Audrey continues in full flow: He treats people like an old pair of rugby shorts, drags them through the mud and then tosses them aside. Dev is standing nearby and asks if they're talking about Duggie, but Debs says he'd know all about using people and goes to drink in the back instead.
Hayley returns to the café and tells Roy the story of the fiancée. He wants advice about the David incident. Should he speak to Gail about his rudeness and truancy? Hayley thinks now is the wrong time. But Roy doesn't want David getting into trouble or danger. As they're going to be parents, they have a responsibility to other people's children too. Hayley says he'll make a wonderful dad.
Back in the Rovers, Ashley is now reading the article. He's sitting with Danny and Sally. She comments that Duggie has always seemed very nice. Maybe the newspaper report isn't true. Danny thinks there's no smoke without fire (he would). Sally wonders about contracts, so they ask Vinnie about their leases. He assures them the leases are legal and binding and that Duggie is taking legal action.
The girls are discussing Harvey at the bar. That's men for you and the good-looking ones are the worst. Geena tells them that Dev hinted Harvey was no good. This upsets Bobbi, as Geena hadn't passed this information on. Janice advises them: don't get mad, get even.
Roy is at Gail's, telling her about David's afternoon, when he arrives. Gail seems more bothered about his rudeness to Roy than the truancy. David accuses her of not caring anyway. All she does is row with Martin and he wants it all back the way it was. He rushes upstairs in tears.
Geena accuses Dev of knowing about Harvey and not letting on. He tries to defend himself by saying what guys say and what they do are very different things. She continues. Was he laughing at them too? All blokes are the same. Dev says that's not fair. Harvey is a prowler, he' s looking for prey. Whereas if Dev is looking for anything, it's someone special. (This seems like a play for Geena from Dev. He certainly doesn't act as if he's looking for someone special. Will Geena fall for it?).
Sitting in a booth, Curly is glad that Emma made it home in one piece. He can't help worrying about her, he loves her. She loves him too and had a very boring day. She confirms she's booked her holiday so they can go to France and meet Alice.
Duggie arrives. His solicitor's have advised him to shut up and forget it. (Good advice). Debs isn't impressed. But the paper had every right to print what it did. Demanding a retraction would only fan the flames. Best to let it all blow over.
Rita arrives at Anthony's. He tells her not to worry, she looks enchanting. Gregory greets her with: You must be Rita, unless Dad has any other lady friends he's not telling us about. Amanda just gives her a frosty look. (Seems Rita was right to be worried).
A depressed Tyrone returns to the house. He's looked everywhere. Vera tells him not to give up hope. Jack answers the door. Norris has found something at Emily's he thinks might belong here. It is of course Monica. She was on his bed again. Probably got in while Emily was hanging out the washing. Tyrone can barely control his delight. She must have recognised the smell of his grandmother's quilt. Norris has to leave as excessive housedust triggers his allergy.
At Anthony's, they are now eating. Amanda tries to make conversation. Dad says you're a post-mistress. Yes, it's part of my newsagent's shop. Is that a good business to be in? Gregory tells us that Amanda is an accountant and so interested in profitability. Amanda continues. And you used to sing in night-clubs. (She's making Rita out to be a very disreputable character). Gregory chips in, you're a performer, that's why you like the theatre. We won't go, but Dad took Mum of course. They go for pudding. Anthony assures Rita that the evening is going very well and she's coming up trumps. (This boy's a fool).
Martin is having a heart-to-heart with David. Acting up won't solve anything. David says he didn't mean to be rude. There's no point in going to school, he can't think. Martin says they have to keep things as normal as possible. But it isn't normal, you'll go off with your girlfriend. Martin assures him he doesn't have a girlfriend now and that whatever happens with Gail, he promises he'll still be there for David. He goes off to bed.
Gail arrives and Martin tells her David is worried about what's going to happen. Gail thinks he's confused because they've told him they're splitting up, but Martin is still there. She thinks they should get on with the divorce. She'll go to the solicitor's tomorrow and she wants him to move out right away.
Well here it is my last report for awhile. The good news is Janice is taking over while I am away. She is going to be busy with extra episodes next week! However apologies from her that she hasn't a computer at home, and therefore won't be able to do the reports until she is at work the next day.
Gail wakes Martin up from the couch. He asks if she is still going to see the solicitor. He thinks it is a waste of time, because they are making an amicable agreement. Gail is however determined.
Duggie tells Vinnie that he will settle out of court with the ex-lodger. Vinnie will have nothing to worry about inasmuchas he was only acting as an agent.
Sally comes round to clear the air with Gail. Gail now calmer understands that Sally had her reasons for not telling her.
The girls in the factory plan a leaving party for Harvey, but they have an ulterior motive.
Sally warns Gail that there is no such thing as an amicable divorce. It is is downhill now.
Anthony invites Rita to a charity performance of a show in York. As it is such a long journey he thought they could stop over. She says she will think about it.
Harvey comes to apologise to one of the factory girls. He says that his fiance is dead in the water and she just won't break it off.
Liz returns to the Street. She sees Steve in a sling and wonders what has been happening. Steve explains to Liz everything that happened between himself and Jez and how Jim has got himself in the nick, so he has!
Harvey goes to apologise to the other girl.
Duggie gets a message to confirm that the tenant will settle out of court.
Maria shows Vera her engagement ring.
At the factory party Janice goes through Harvey's address book. He rings up his fiance, Saskiah, to pick him up.
Liz says she will go to prison to see Jim.
Saskiah comes in to the factory and sees him dancing with the girls. He is looking very embarassed. The girls put spray foam all over the car, drop baked beans on him through the sun roof. Saskiah is very annoyed. They also put "Just ditched" on the back windscreen.
Duggie gets a phone call. The council have dropped his contract because of the bad publicity about him in the paper.
Gail tells Martin that she has seen a solicitor. She tells Martin that he can have access to the kids. He tells her that he wants custody.
So that is it! I am actually going to unsubscribe from the list now, because all mail to hrb.org.uk is going to someone else, because I don't want to come back to a folder full of e-mails! Good luck Janice. Hopefully, if Fiona lets me I will be back at the end of the month. Thank you everybody for your good wishes.
Good evening. It is going to be a busy week in Weatherfield with extra episodes on Wednesday and Thursday. By the end of this week we might also know if one of our daughters is joining the Army and if we are moving house ... more news next week.
Over in Weatherfield events come courtesy of ITV Television who retain all copyright and sponsored by Cadbury's Fruit and Nut
Written by Julie Gearey Directed by Jim Loach
At the Platts Gail demands Martin confirm that he is seeking custody - no he is not joking. He does not want Sarah or Brittany - just David. Gail tells Martin that he is not splitting up the family. David appears in the rear of the shot on the stairs landing. Martin refuses to discuss it with Gail and goes out to look at a few flats having told Gail that David should have the opportunity to take a decision on where he lives. Martin knows that no judge will let Sarah live with him (he is not her real father) so there is no point in him fighting for her even if he wished to so do. He can win the fight for David and will!
Maria is showing off the ring in the shop to Norris and Rita. Rita reckons it is beautiful but Norris remarks on the small size but Tyrone calls Maria his top bird.
Natalie is talking to Debs in the back room of the Rovers. Natalie has heard that it is Jez Quigley's funeral whilst Debs is unhappy over the treatment which Duggie is suffering - it looks as though the council are about to pull all the contracts in the light of the bad publicity. Duggie could well be bankrupt as a result. Natalie reassures Debs. Toyah gets the blame and works in to get a full blast from Debs. Toyah reminds Debs that Phil Simmonds was sleeping rough.
Later in the bar Duggie is using the mobile phone to contact councillors but none of them will talk to him. Duggie breaks the bad news to Vinny and the former goes off to doorstep various councillors to get things turned around. Danny wanders in to have a word with Martin. Martin describes the feelings at home in Brookside terms - any worse and one of the bodies will be under the patio! Danny mentions the flat above the shop - but Martin is reluctant to rent from Duggie in the light of the news. Danny reckons it is local so Martin can see the kids - Vinny will sort it out and Martin goes across the bar. Anthony and Rita are about to set out for the theatre.
Out on the Street Tyrone and Maria are demonstrating the car to Vera - and Maria's small ring is demonstrated again. As Maria observes she does not like flashy jewellery anyway and a somewhat embarrassed Vera removes the usual oversized earrings!!
In a completely new view showing Nuttall's brewery gates (which seem to have moved a lot closer), the hardware shop, Roy's Rolls, the soon-to-be butchers and the entrance (I assume) to the flats above, we see David throwing stones. Hayley comes along to stop him and David explains about this morning's row and how it just kept going on but Gail denies there is anything wrong. Hayley invites him round for a piece of cake but David stomps off (can someone please give the boy a new hairdo, sticking up jelled hair at 10 - poor parenting in my opinion).
Over at the Big house it is visiting time and Liz is waiting for Jim who can hardly believe his eyes. He wants to know why she is there. She has been away on holiday and could not come sooner. Jim instantly observes that she is not married yet - she says they have been too busy. Jim's temper is bad and he tells Liz what has happened. He reminds her that she used to complain about him using his fists before his brains - he reminds her that he is a murderer, but as Liz points out it was an accident. It should be manslaughter not murder. Jim is determined to do his time.
Eventually Jim calms down and apologises and he is finding it hard to be in jail. He is having a hard time adjusting to the behaviour and to the pressure. He does not feel strong. The noise of keys and doors upset him - he cannot sleep. Visiting time is over but Liz promises she will be back next time - she cannot leave Jim like this, at least they can still talk. Liz wants him to fight - but he is still insistent on pleading guilty.
Gail is bringing Sally up to date on Martin's wish to have David live with him. Sally reckons that Gail will get custody automatically - after all she is table. Gail starts crying and her face dissolves - she does look a bit like a stable. Sally suggests they could still try - better to have one last try before the solicitors go mad.
In the Rovers Vinny has rented the flat to Martin and the latter takes the keys. Duggie is starting to think that he cannot turn the problem around.
After the play Rita and Anthony are discussing it and they decide to have a post theatre supper. Anthony reveals he could not stop watching her during the interval - but Rita had already noticed. Anthony admits - he found her ravishing - a word which Rita describes as old-fashioned.
Outside the prison Liz and Steve are discussing the visit. Liz has seem Jim as frightened - something which she has never seen before. Liz sighs. Liz is coming back next week. She has to sort a few things out in Milton Keynes but she will be back and after the appalling legs on Friday is thankfully wearing trousers tonight.
Martin tells Gail where he is going and that he wants to take a few things. Martin intends to exercise his rights and he will be getting his own lawyer. If she wants a fight she has got one.
At the end of the dinner Rita admits the best bit is that she is with Anthony. Anthony refers to the complexities of the situation - but it does not affect his feelings - she makes him very happy. The waiter arrives and she orders a nightcap - two brandies to be served in room 205 (and there was red wine on the table). Rita confirms she is absolutely certain about this.
Back at the Rovers Duggie confronts Toyah. He is finished and due to her efforts he is now persona non grata - she has brought his business down and the contracts are lost, the debts are enormous and his yard is full of materials which he cannot use. He is ruined and Debs moves to comfort him.
Not a special episode tonight - but then few are that special.
Gail eventually took Brian back - anyone taking bets that this is final?
Rita and Anthony - is this going to be as straightforward as it seems?
And Duggie is a fighter - he will not give up that easily and in fact if the contracts are signed the council may be forced to compensate if they are torn up! And he should not have mistreated his tenants so whilst the punishment might seem excessive I am with Toyah on this one!
And Liz - well that hair style is really out of fashion but is she still harbouring feelings for Jim - well probably not but who can be sure?
K Richard Whitbread
Rita and Anthony arrive home after their night away in York. They both had a wonderful time, and decide to do it again this time in Stratford. They are spotted by Dev, and Rita comments that they are dirty stopouts, but Anthony tells her he doesn't care - let them talk.
Martin tells Gail that he will move out at lunchtime, and he'll poip back to let the kids know. Gail tells him that he wants David to make an impossible choice, and Martin ask her is she frightened that David will choose him. Maxine on her way out of the shop sees Martin with a suitcase and asks if he is going on holiday - Audrey races over to see Gail. Gail cries that that is nine years of marriage over, as Audrey tries to console her with the fact that it will get better. Martin can't hurt her anymore, and she should start rebuiding her life. Gail tells Audrey that Martin wants custody of David and that he's going to see a soliciitor.
Linda and Mike arrive back at the airport. Linda asks if she should book into a hotel, saying he's ignored her on the plane. She walks off and Mike after a pausettells her they'll have a cup of coffee, and maybe sort something out. Over a coffee, Linda asks Mike how can they fix thoinbgs if he won't talk to her and tell her how he feels. He opens up to tell her , he knew everyone thought she was a goldigger and he a stupid old fool, but he felt so proud he could keep her interested. It's revbealed that they haven't ahd a good honeymoon, didn't sleep together, didn't speak much. Linbda tells him she may as well have been on her own. She tries to bring up the subject of Mark, and Mike furiously tell sher not to mention his name. She tells hi it can't end like this. So they go home in a taxi.
At home, Linda picks the mail up, and Mike is straight at her, asking if she thinks she can get her feet straight under the table. She tells him it's the proofs of the wedding photos, and he shouts at her tpo put them in th bin. He suits downs and tells her he's can't understand it, was he a bad father ? did he deserve it? Lind tells him that it's over, it's history. She 's here now with him. He tells her he would like to beleive it, but the two people he trusted the most in his life. Linda tells him that Mark meant nothing, which infuriates him. He asks if it was one of her little games. Mark was his future, and now he can never see him again. She tells him they don't have to throw it all away - she won't loos him. She tels Mike she hates herself , and she'll make it upto him, he's the best thing that has ever happened to her. Mike wasnts to know how he can trust her, give her a second chance. He tells her that no one must ever know what happened. They'll take it one day at a time, but if she ever lies or cheats again, she'll be out of thir house and back in the gutter.
Martin tells the kids he is moving out. In a very heart wrenching scene Gail and Martin tell David and sarah that the marriage is not working, and they'll be all happier living apart. David cries and cries and tells Mrtin that if he goes, he wants to live with him. Martin, agonisingly tells him that he'll have to stay and look after his mum, Sarah and Bethany, and not to worry, he'ssee Martin all the time.
Martin says goodbye, and see you sson. Gail thanks him. Martin walks out the door, and David screams at Gail that it's all her fault - she's so horrible. Sarah shouts at david to be quiet, and not to speak like that, but Gail tells he rto leave him - David is upset - he doean't understand. Sarah and Gail hug.
Martin opens the door on and part furnished flat - he looks around, crying his eyes out.
Janice
Sarah and David are fighting. He's trying to drink milk from the carton. All the post is for Martin. David sticks the radio on at full volume, he thinks it's too quiet. Gail tells them that it will feel strange for a while but they all have to help each other out. Sarah will take David to school.
The Baldwins are getting ready to return to the factory. Linda hates that feeling, like going back to school, but Mike likes the feeling of cold, hard reality. You know where you stand. Linda says again that she'll make it up to him and he reminds her again that no-one else must ever know. She rehearses how they'll describe their honeymoon and he remarks she always was a good liar. There's an air-mail letter in the post, from Mark. She begs him not to read it, it will be full of more lies, but he says it's none of her business.
Duggie is in the café with Vinnie and tells him about having to sell his house. He'll keep Vinnie on but will need the van and phone back and won't be able to pay him for a while. Vinnie says he can only batten down the hatches and wait for the storm to blow over, or else go under. Duggie refuses to let a snotty-nosed kid drag him down.
Over at the counter, Vera suggests an engagement party for Tyrone and Maria. Tyrone wants it proper, with sausage rolls and trifle and things on sticks. And can his mum come? Of course says Vera, clearly unsure of how this will turn out.
Dev is looking at property prices in the local paper. He's obviously heard about Duggie's problems and is looking to make a killing. Deirdre wonders why he wants another house, but he says it's a business deal. She admires him for going out and getting what he wants. Most people she knows just sit around and dream, but he makes it happen. He suggests she stick with him, she might learn something.
Martin comes out of the Post Office and bumps into his kids. David misses him. Martin offers them a lift and has a chat to Sarah while David gets into the car. He asks about Gail and Sarah says the house is horrible without him.
Dev sees Duggie in the street and comes out to make his business proposal. He says he has some capital so can make a cash offer. Duggie hedges but takes Dev's card.
The Baldwin's arrive at the factory. Hayley tells Mike it's been running like clockwork. He goes in and Janice comments about his sour face to Linda. She claims it's jetlag.
Curly is practising his French on Deirdre. Emma tells them they're off to France next week. Les butts in and says he admires their culture. They're allowed to have mistresses and their wives are insulted if they don't take one. Then he mentions the Platts. They hold themselves up as a shining example, but Martin moved out yesterday.
The girls are quizzing Linda on her honeymoon. Has she got the photos yet? No, she left the camera on the plane (telling this lie with no hesitation whatsoever). Still, she has her memories, says Hayley. Mike leaves and won' tell Linda where he's going.
Alma steps off the bus (?) and meets him in the street. He's angry that she didn't tell him about Mark and Linda. She didn't think it was her place and this isn't the right place to talk. They agree to meet up later.
Linda has found Mark's letter in the office and Mike arrives to catch her reading it. Why is she so worried? Linda says she's told him everything, but thinks Mark might lie. She didn't know he'd told Alma. Mike mentions trust. That includes not having people read your personal correspondence. Nothing's changed. He walks out in disgust.
Les has moved on to the Rovers, but is still discussing the Platts. He's sure there's a woman involved. Martin's in his prime, but Gail must be ten years older. Why shouldn't it be Gail who's found someone, wonders Natalie. Come on, she's way past her sell-by date. Les thinks this split was way overdue.
Mike is also at the bar and Fred joins him. He asks after Mark and is told it was a virus. Pity to miss such a good do. Still, he'll have his own one day. Mike doesn't think he's the marrying kind. Fred says they both know that marriage isn't a guarantee of happiness and security. Mike gives a rueful smile.
Tyrone and Maria are washing the car and discussing the party. They'll invitee family and close friends only. Tyrone is a bit worried about too many people meeting his mum. Maria is dying to meet her.
Gail meets David. He tells her Martin gave them a lift to school and bought him some CDs.
Back in the Rovers, a high-powered business negotiation is underway. It's Duggie and Dev and the house is on the table. Dev has now seen it and in true buyer's style is running it down. And the market is flooded with this type of property. He'll take it if Duggie will drop the price by £75,000. No way? I'm offering cash. But Duggie is immovable. Sorry I wasted your time, and Dev moves to go. No, hold on, I'll take off £15,000. This goes backwards and forwards for a while and they finally agree on the asking price - £50,000. Dev says sardonically, nice doing business with you. Duggie looks like a man who knew he was in no position to bargain and what's worse, that Dev knew it too.
Gail arrives at Martin's flat. She's not stopping. First, she thanks him for not asking David to choose between them. Then, she says they need to establish some ground-rules. He can't just turn up whenever he likes, it will only confuse the kids (this has of course happened once). And he can't buy David presents it's trying to win him over. Martin is naturally flabbergasted at this. The meeting was a coincidence and surely he can buy his son gifts if he wants. Gail says that Sally and Kevin setup a rota. Well, who is Martin to question their parenting skills? On, and what about money. Don't worry, Martin will pay his share. (Gail is becoming more and more Kafkaeque).
Dev struts back into the shop, looking, as Deirdre comments, like the cat who got the cream. But it would be unprofessional of him to reveal his business deals. However, he's got a real bargain and made a tidy profit with no effort on his part. IT WAS A GREAT DEAL! Deirdre knows he's talking about Duggie's house, but is sworn to secrecy. What will he do with it? Rent it out for a few months, then put it back on the market and when the price goes up. He feels a celebratory drink coming on and they repair to the Rovers.
Frank the security man is locking up at Freshco's. A few of the employees wish him luck in his retirement. We see 2 shifty-looking guys hanging out at the wine counter. Alma takes a card in for Curly to sign. Will he make a speech when he presents the gift at the do later? Oh and she won't be there, she's got to see Mike. That means there'll only be 4 of them. Emma rings on the mobile.
Duggie is round at Debs', feeling outdone. She thinks he should be happy. He now has the cash he needs to keep the business going. Yes, and from tomorrow, I'll be fighting back. He wants it back the way it was, but she thinks he should stop looking over his shoulder and move on. He'll have to change all sort of things, like...where he'll live...and stuff. Yes, how about if I...humph, humph...move in here? (Excellent play by Debs).
This follows on directly from the normal Wed episode. The 2 shifty guys are now at the checkout. We don't hear their names, so I'll call them 1 and 2. 1 is the leader and has black hair. 2 is taller and blond.
1 produces a gun and demands the contents of the till. Curly, Mike and Alma are looking on in horror. Frank arrives and tells him not to be stupid. The gun is now pointed at him.
The till girl screams. Fred, Ashley and Ken run to the scene. She gives him the money, (which isn't much) and tells him it was emptied half an hour ago, they all were. Curly intervenes and tells them that the tills are emptied every 3 hours and then the money stored in a time delay safe. There is already dissension between the 2 thieves. 2 says he told 1 they should have done it earlier.
Mike suggests they clear off but 1 tells him to keep his trap shut. Everyone gets pushed to the back of the shop where they sit on the floor. 2 gets the gun to keep them covered and 1 takes a knife and goes with Curly to the safe. He tells him again it's company policy to have the safe on a time delay and it won't open til 6am. 1 kicks the safe and says Shit! Curly says the people outside are his friends. He wouldn't risk their lives for a few thousand pounds. How much! asks 1. Curly reveals there's 20 thousand pounds in there. 1 is now constructing a new plan. He asks about security and if any other staff come in at night. We discover that there's no-one arriving til the cleaners at 7am.
Linda arrives at the Rovers and Geena asks about the honeymoon. Linda then asks after Mike or Alma. Neither have been in so she has a G&T. Maxine tells Audrey that Ash has a leaving do at work tonight.
Fred checks that Ashley is OK and assures him he won't let anything happen to him. The others return.2 wants to leave but 1 tells him they'll get £20,000 in the morning. All they have to do is close up the store, tie them up and switch off the security cameras. 2 would prefer to empty their pockets, get some booze and fags and scarper. Fred says they can't keep them there all night. Mike says they'll only get themselves in worse trouble. He's very confrontational with everything he says and the others tell him to keep quiet, or he'll aggravate the gunman. 1 wants some washing-line or cable and Curly, the consummate store manager, directs him to Aisle 3. Mike's mobile goes off. 2 switches it off and Curly also hands his over. They're asked if anyone else has one and Ashley was about to reveal his but they're all made to stand up and he takes the opportunity to hide it in the fresh bread.
Linda thinks that Mike's switched off phone means he doesn't want to talk to her. She's cross as she thinks he's with Alma. She tells Geena that Mark confessed to Mike at the wedding. She thought they'd break the record for the shortest one in history. She also thought she was getting Mike to believe he was the one she wanted, but then he got Mark's letter and it stirred it all up again. The letter revealed that Mark had told Alma and now she'll stir it more. She's the last person Linda wants offering a shoulder to cry on. Where else could he be? (This conversation tends to make Linda look scheming, rather than having genuine feelings for Mike).
The shutters come down and we see a passerby. 1 has a gun at Curly's head and tells him not to even think about it. The goods entrance is already locked. 2 is tying them all up. It's 8:30. Mike can't believe it and Ken says he shouldn't wind them up. Ashley says they're in enough trouble without listening to them two bickering. Mike says they're a couple of kids out of their depth. Frank remarks that they still have a gun. Mike doesn't think it can be real and what kind of a security guard are you anyway?
1 has discovered it's Frank's last day, so everyone here is expected to be away at a leaving do and won't be missed at home. Mike says his wife will miss him and call the police. 1 thinks they'll drive past, see that it's shut and go away again. He opens Frank's present. Mike has had enough. I won't be pushed around by a couple of thugs. He demands they put the gun and knife down and untie them. The gun is now pointing at him but he believes it's either not real or not loaded. Is that right, asks 1 and shoots out the cameras. Mike looks shocked and sits down.
Ken says it's not just Mike's life he's putting at risk. He then asks to talk to 1 alone. He tells him that Mike did what he did because he's scared, they all are. He thinks they are too. Fear makes people do strange things. He has the gun and knife but doesn't want to use them. He expected a quick getaway. Why not just leave now? I don't know who's the biggest git, you or the cockney. You're both getting up my nose. He's had enough ear-bashing and takes Mike, Curly and Ken away. They find an office where Ken and Mike are made to sit on the floor back to back and get tied together. Mike wants separate rooms. Why, don't you like each other? Mike and Ken are left alone.
Ain't it quiet with them two gobshites out the way? 1 tells 2 to stop looking miserable. They've got a whole supermarket to themselves. What does he want to eat, crisps, nuts, cakes? Or a whole tub of ice-cream all to himself. Have you got chocolate cookie crumble? Aisle 1. Fred wants to smoke, but they won't untie him. Sitting here is also very bad for his back.
2 gets sticky toffee bubblegum instead. Fred testifies to its deliciousness, he's been known to eat a family sized tub at one sitting. You pig, says Ash. He wouldn't mind some now. Alma sees them eating from the tub and says they really are just kids. Frank thinks he should have stopped this from happening.
Ken thinks everyone has the chance to get out alive now that Mike's attempts at gung ho diplomacy are over. But Mike retorts that his amateur psychology didn't do any better. They saw him for the pillock he is. Ken had credited them with an ounce of intelligence. I bet those villains at Weatherfield Comp loved you. In fact, I bet those two are ex-pupils. Ken wants to punch his lights out. Why are you here anyway? To pick up Alma. Why are you sniffing round her? Bored with your trophy wife already? This seems to hit a nerve. At this point, Mike manages to wriggle his hands free and reluctantly unties Ken too.
2 is using Frank's power drill to punch holes in a juice carton. This is getting on Alma's nerves and 1 agrees. But 2 is bored. He's meant to be bowling tonight, getting ready for quarter finals. 1 has an idea and is directed to the lemonade in Aisle 4.
Frank reflects on how this incident happened. He knew they were trouble but had already clocked off in his mind. What a way to end your career, with failure. Alma tries to reassure him.
1 arrives with a trolley full of melons. He's setup an alley for 2 using bottles of lemonade. He takes a galia, aims and knocks down four bottles.
Mike kicks the door, turns the lights on and discovers that all the windows are barred. Ken reflects he could die tonight. Things aren't all bad then, quips Mike. Ken thinks it's fitting that Mike should be there. They start having a go at each other. (I enclose their conversation as it's entertaining but I think will also be important for their future relationship.)
M: You hate me for what I stand for, a self-made man with the nous to succeed. You have nothing. K: I'm all for making something of yourself but I hate your smugness, vanity, and cocky smile. M: Why did Deirdre end up with you (didn't take long to get round to the women then). K: A real relationship of depth and substance is beyond your comprehension. M: You treated her like a doormat, no wonder she went looking for something. K: And you were straight in there, waiting in the wings. M: Are you still telling yourself that after 18 years? K: But Deirdre chose me. M: Felt sorry for you. K: No, walked away from you and everything you offered. I moved on years ago K: Yes, to my daughter. You deliberately went out with her just to get back at me. M: If you could have seen your face when you walked her down the aisle (seeming to confirm Ken's theory). I've got better things to do with my time than waste it trying to annoy you. K: Your relationship with Susan was a complete sham. M: You've had your fair share of women. Was Wendy Crozier a relationship of depth and substance? K: I've made mistakes, but I've never deliberately set out to hurt someone or ruin their lives. M: You're a loser and always will be.
2 is still bowling and Ashley 's getting into it. Fred is trying to take the weight off his back. The floor is very hard, could he not have a chair? Aisle 2 garden furniture, special offer. 2 goes to get them. And what about something to eat, asks Fred. If denied, he'd rather they use the gun and put him out of his misery! He wants meat. How about a nice fillet steak. How will they cook it? Curly has the answer: disposable barbecues, Aisle 2. It will help pass the time and they all need sustenance. Fred says you haven't lived til you've had one of my fillet steaks in a ciabatta roll. He's right, chips in Ashley, it'll melt in your mouth. 1 starts slavering.
M: You hate me because Deirdre still has feelings for me. K: I'll try to put it in terms you'll understand. I got the girl, we live together, we're very happy. M: Do you know why she went back to you? Because you were her husband. I gave her something you couldn't, excitement and respect. K: You never gave a woman respect in your life. M: I made her feel like a woman. But she couldn't turn her back on marriage. She chose second best. You both know it. That's why you'll always be threatened by me til the day you die. K: Aren't you long in the tooth for this old Lothario routine? It's a bit embarrassing to watch and clearly only attracts a certain type of woman. (This gets Mike). M: What's that supposed to mean? K: Did you make Julia Stone feel like a woman? A tatty little scam and you fell for it. Sacrificed your marriage for a fling. And now you've fallen for another one. Linda may be more subtle but it amounts to the same thing. Mike threatens to kill him and kicks at the door.
The BBQ is in full swing, with pickles and everything. How's this for a leaving do Frank? He apologises to Alma for his outburst. He should be helping people keep their spirits up, not wallowing in self-pity. He thinks Alma is very understanding. He's not married and has bought a cottage in Shropshire. He used to be a builder and it needs a lot doing to it. That will keep him busy. He won't miss work except for some of the people, especially you. Alma looks shocked. She's very flattered. He's always liked her, since she started, and nearly asked her out. Fred offers more food and Ashley asks for a pork chop. Can he get some bread? Goes to the mobile and calls Max in the pub. He just manages to say he's in Freschos when 2 spots him and tramples on the phone.
Audrey thinks Ash is very drunk and doesn't know where he is. No, he was scared, something's not right. Max sees Vik and asks for a lift to Freshco's. Meanwhile, 2 has Ashley in a headlock and 1 has the gun on the others, who have all leapt to Ash's defence. 1 threatens to use it if they try anything. At this point the steaks set the fire alarm off. 1 goes with Curly into his office to switch it off. Mike and Ken hear it. They're worried the thieves have torched the place and done a runner. Mike tries to break the windows and gets a heart attack. Ken loosens his collar, tells him to take deep breaths and assures him he'll be OK. Mike says, If I die.... You won't. Tell Linda I love her. I forgive her. Curly turns the alarm off but says the system is connected directly to the fire station so someone will be there any minute.
Mike's heart is racing but otherwise he's OK. Ken says he must go straight to hospital when they get out. This seems to trigger a truce. They wonder why they're slugging it out like a couple of old boxers that should have been retired years ago. They should be helping each other through this ordeal, not harping on about something that happened 20 years ago! Maybe they needed something like this to show them how pathetic their squabbles are.
We hear a siren. It's the firemen. Curly opens up and tells them it's a false alarm. They had a BBQ for the staff and forget about the detectors. The fire chief wants to check the alarms anyway as part of procedure, but Curly is made to lock up by 1 in the background. The thieves are now in a panic. Everything is put away and the hostages made to sit on the floor again.
Mike says he shouldn't have shot his mouth off to the thieves. Ken agrees it did seem like he was on a suicide mission. You're meant to be an eternal optimist, that's what I always disliked about you. We will get out of here alive. Maybe Mike doesn't want to. But you have everything to look forward to. My young bride only wants me for one thing, maybe you were right. Mike nearly tells him what's going on but then says it's nothing and wonders where the fire brigade is.
Max, Audrey and Vik arrive and see the fire engine. Max peers through the shutters and sees Fred with a gun pointed at him. The fire chief hears this and calls for firearms officers.
Ken reminds Mike of his deathbed wish. What had Linda done to be forgiven for? He guesses: has she been seeing someone else? You'll never guess who. Mark. Go on, lap it up. But Ken knew how much it meant to have Mark back in his life. That's the worst thing for Mike. He tells Ken that Mark confessed half an hour after the wedding. Linda keeps telling him that she chose Mike over Mark, but he doesn't know if he can ever trust her again. Ken gives his view. Speaking as someone who's been cheated, and done some cheating too, marriage can survive anything you throw at it, if you want it to.
The firearms officers have arrived. The super is briefed by the fire chief. He asks for close containment of the area and calls for the negotiator.
The thieves see the cops and wonder what to do. 2 wants to leg it. 1 says they have 8 hostages so can still get what they came for. 2 says it was supposed to be a quick knock-off, not a siege. 1 sends him off for Ken and Mike.
Vik has to leave. Audrey stays with Max. The firearms officers take up strategic points, dressed all in black with balaclavas. The till girl is very scared now. Ken and Mike return to the group. The phone goes and negotiations begin. 1 has 8 hostages, he wants £100K and a helicopter. The negotiator asks him to release half the hostages to sure good deal. 1 isn't making any deals, they have 1 hour.
The till girl is sure they'll be shot. Frank assures here they're bluffing and Curly leaps into action. He asks 1 to let the girl go, as a gesture, her and Alma. But 1 doesn't want to negotiate. Curly says in that case they'll just sit and wait it out. 1 points out he was waiting anyway. Curly reminds him of the police marksmen outside. 1: You've been watching too many films mate. C: More realistic than the ones you're watching if you think they'll give you a helicopter. 1: Wait til I start using this. C: The moment you shoot someone in here, they'll shoot you. (At this point, Curly knows 1 is called Dean. I don't know when this happened, and I've watched it twice). Bet they're a better shot than you too. You've never used a gun before. I can tell by the way you hold it. Dean: (sticking gun under Curly's chin) You don't have to be a crackshot when it's this close. C: If they bring money and helicopter where will you go? Brazil? Dean: Don't care as long as it's away from this dump. There's nothing for me here. C: Do you only want to run away? Dean: No. 2: yes. Dean: Must be better ways then this. You know nothing about me. C: Well tell me. How old are you. Dean: I'm nearly 18. C: So 17, up for armed robbery, kidnap, murder, how long will you go to prison for? Dean: Not at all if I get away. C: You came to rob the tills, it got out of your control, and now you just keep upping the ante. Give yourself up while you still have a chance.
Mike has been watching this conversation intently and when the phone goes again he makes a run for it. Dean shoots the ceiling, and outside, the armed cops are given authorisation to go in.
Vik is now back in the Rovers and tells Geena there's a robbery going on at Freshco's. Linda and Deirdre both hear and try to get more information. Vik only knows that Fred and Curly are there. The two women set off.
Curly tries to calm Dean down. He knows he only wanted a bit of cash. The armed police are moving in. Curly asks for the gun. As Dean's handing it over, the cops fire and storm the place. Dean takes a wild shot and one cop and is shot in the stomach by another. Curly puts his hands up and turns round to see someone pulling off their balaclava. It's Emma.
The Paramedics are loading up Dean on a stretcher, Deirdre and Linda come rushing up , looking for Mike and Ken. They manage to get past the cordon , when they say they are with Audrey and Maxine. Maxine can't see Ashley and is frantic. Emma wants Curly out the shop, there is still one robber on the loose. Mike and Ken are led out by the police, heads down, arms behind back. The police aren't sure who are the robbers and who are hostages. Deidre and Linda see Mike and ken and rush up to them kissing and hugging one another.
Lenny has Ashley as a hostage in Curly's office. Ashley tries to persuade him to walk down the stairs and hand himself in. Lenny wants Ashley to show him a back exit. Just then Fred barges in. Lenny grabs Ashley by the throat, and tells him to get out. Fred says to exchange him for Ashley. He tells Fred to go, he'll be OK. Lenny breaks down and Ashley makes a grab fro the gun. Fred comes over the loudspeaker to tell the police that it's safe to come up.
Ashley and Fred are brought out and are hugged by Maxine and Audrey. Maxine tells Ash that she's not going to let him out on his own again. He comments that he doesn't want to!
Mike and Ken exchange thanks to one another, much to the astonishment of Deirdre. She asks what exactly went on in there.
Dean is brought out to the ambulance, Curly shouts good luck to him.
He turns and give a hard long stare to Emma. They talk later , and Curly tells Emma that Dean was going to give him the gun. Emma rounds on him and says he took a shot a one of her colleagues. They can't start shooting they've got to wait, and the robber deserves everything he gets.
Linda watches the stretcher and realizes it's her brother Dean. She insistson getting in the ambulance, and Mike goes along too.
She asks Dean what he was thinking of doing, and tells him to hold on. Dean has a massive internal bleed and goes into cardiac arrest. Linda begs the paramedic to save him.
Next moring sees Maxine, Ash and Fred coming home by taxi after giving a statement to the police. Emma is being dropped off by a police car and Fred shouts over that she saved their lives, and she'll never be short of a bit of meat. Ashley and Fred both say they'll never forget what each did for one another, and Maxine comments she can't make out whether they are both brave or stupid.
Emma finds Curly standing outside taking the air. She apologizes for being short with him. he tells her that she saved his life. Her phone rings, it's her boss, telling her that Dean has died. She whispers to Curly, that she killed him.
Janice
Emma and Curly are discussing what happened . Curly says they were just kids, and how did they get their hands on a firearm. Emma says they are easy to get if you want to. Curly says the lad was scared, got in too deep. Emma says she knows Curly thinks she's hard, but she was only doing her job.
Linda and Mike are discussing the events of the night before. She says the last time she saw Dean, he was only a kid kicking a ball around the Red rec. Mike asks how long was it since she saw him, as now he was a vicious thug, brandishing a gun and tying everyone up - him included. Mike thinks he realizes now, why she didn't want him to meet the family. Mike tells Linda he doesn't know anything about her family, and what happened to her mum. She tells him that she left. Mike tells Linda about what happend, Linda asks what Lenny was doing, and Mike tells her that he was taking orders from Dean. Then just as they were negotiating, the police stormed the buiding. Dean then shot at a policeman. Vinnie tells Natalie he's off to work, a moving job - that is until Deb comes in to tell Natalie that Duggie is moving in with her for the time being, and Vinie realizes it's not paid work.
Ken finds Curly sitting at the bus stop. He tells Ken that he wished he'd had a few more minutes to talk to Dean. Ken tells him they'll just have to get on with life. Curly asks how, when it was Emma's unit that came in. Ken hadn't realized.
Emma's boss comes to see her, telling her she will be suspended pending an enquiry, which is normal, but she has nothing to worry about. She followed the book. Later her colleague comes to thank her. She tells him she knew he was a young kid, but 17 is a bit of a shock. She wishes she'd shot him in the leg. Ken also goes to see Emma to thank her. She asks if it was the brother of the girl that works at the factory.
Duggie moves in, and Debbie tells him she'll make a nice meal for them. When she comes back again, the house is strewn with Duggie's belonging. She prepares a meal, they sit to eat it, when Dug gets a phone call. He has to dash off to meet a client he has been chasing all week. He tells Debbie to put it in the oven, and he'll get it later. Not a great start is it?
Fred thanks Maxine for allowing him to stay with them. Maxine tells Fred she's worried about Ashley. Today he went to work, after having a gun pointed at him, but he's a jibbering wreck on a palne.
Ther's aknock at Linda and Mike's door....it'sLlinda's dad and her brother Jimmy. Jimmy sneers in Mike's face. Linda's dad asks why Mike was at the store, does he work there. Linda tells him he was there to see a friend. Linda's dad blames Lenny, he never liked that boy. He can't understand why he was shot. Linda tells him she was there in the ambullance when he died, he knew it was her. They can't get their heads around the fact atht Dean was there, Mike jumps in with two feet, telling them they should face facts, he was there. Jimmy starts calling Mike names, and Mike asks them bot h to leave.
Curly tells Emma that all the staff involved have been given two weeks leave from Freshco's. She tells Curly of all the people who have come to see her to thank her. She wants Curly to open up to her, but he says he needs a hot bath. But really Curly (IMHO) is the only one that thinks Emma did wrong.
Janice
Emma is awake early, and suffering with nightmares. Curly offers to talk it through with her, but she declines. he comments it's not easy living around here, and she thinks she should go around and see Linda. Curly tell sher he doesn't think it's a very good idea, and what would her bosses say. She says that's none of their business.
Linda is still in shock over Dean, more history on her. She was the eldset of five, and when her mother waked out, and her father was in jail, she was expected to drop school, and take over where her mother left off. When she walked out as well, her family thought she was just like her mother. She did send money back when she could.
Martin's co-worker Carmel comes to his flat to give him a house warming card. He asks if she is in touch with Rebecca. Carmel says she is. Martin asks if Carmel has told Rebecca about his forthcoming divorce, and she tells him she hasn't. Carmel tells him that Rebecca has his email address if she wanted to get in touch. He asks her to let Rebecca know about the situation. Martin comes for the kids, a walk in the park then tea at his flat he tells Gail he'll have them back at seven, and is true to his word, even though David wants to stay longer. Alma tells Gail all about the siege, but tells her she's really here to see how Gail is bearing up. Gail says' they'll get there.
Dev come s to tell Duggie that the money fro the house will be in the bank account the next day. Deb says it's a pity he couldn't have taken on another morgage. Duggie tells her that memories of the house are in the past, and the cash will ensure a future, for both of them he adds.
Emma doesn't want to go the Rovers, but Curly pursuedes her. She's just thinking of going off to find Linda, when in her and Mike walk. Emma starts apologising to Linda, and Linda doesn't know what she's talking about. It finally twigs with Emma, that Linda must be the only one not to know that she shot Dean. Linda goes of it, calling her a murderer.
Linda tells Mike she might report Emma, to which Mike says Emma could get her first. Mike says all Emma was trying to do, was say she was sorry. Linda queries Mike as to why he was actually at Freshco's, and tells him it was to see Alma about the letter from Mark. The doorbell goes and it's Linda's brother and father. After bantering from between Mike and Jimmy, Mike leaves them to talk. Linda says her and Mike will pay for the funeral on Friday. Linda wants to know i they are contacting their mother, but her father says it has nothing to do with her. Linda's dad tells them that the coppers will pay fro Dean's death, but funnily enough, Linda omits to tell her father about Emma's part in it.
Mike buys Ken a drink, one by one Fred, Ashley and even Frank come into the Rovers. Ashley asks Fred if he knew that Lennie had a gun when he burst into the office. Fred says it wouldn't have mattered if it was a machete or machine gun, and he'll understand when he has family of his own.
Ama asks after Emma to Curly. He tells her that he's not much use to her at the moment. He tells alma he was getting through to Dean, and he wants to tell Emma that she done the right thing - but he doesn't think she did!
Janice
It's just 6am and Roy is already in the cafe, worrying about the adoption meeting later on in the day. At the group meeting each couple are paired off with someone else and they have thirty seconds to tell each other about themselves. Hailey does fine, but roy manages to repeat his name. Joanne his partner, says she'll improvise. Roy is very uncomfortable with it all, whereas Hailey thinks it's gone OK.
Gail tells Sally that she's had a letter from Martin's solicitor, and he's agreed to a divorce. Gail thinks it's very cold and calculating the way it's all done eby letter. She now need to get a jobs and sally ask what about Bethany. She says she'll have to find something with creche facilities, and sally recommends a new place opening. She later tells Sarah her plans, but tells her she'll consult her if anything happens.
Duggie is getting Vinnie to bring in one more filing cabinet for his 'office' when Deb walks in. He tells Vinnie he will pay off all his debt, and live off the money he makes renting out the flats. Vinnie worries about Pat the builder, but Duggie tells him Pat will be a pushover. Pat tells Duggie that the word is, Duggie is bankrupt. Duggie offers to buy Pat a drink to talk him into keeping the lads on working, everything will be paid in a few weesk, plus a bonus. Pat says no, he'sll pay the lads for one week out of his own pocket, then he will have to start laying them off.
Janice wants to know why they have had a final demand for the water rates, when she gave Les the money to pay te bill, and found it stuffed down the bottom of the chair. Denis tells Les that he has a cash offer of £8,500 for the Vincent motorbike. Les says he found the bike, so it's his. Later Janice has found bills for the HP payment, phone bill and tells Les he'll have to phone them all up the next day, and go and get himself a job, the first one offered.
Jimmy sees Karen in the Street and tells he needs some answers about Dean. She says she can't help, and points him into Curly's direction. Curly doesn't want to be drawn , and tells Jimmy to conatct the police. Later Jimmy finds Curly in the cafe , and says he know whay Curly won't talk, and that's because Curly stitched Dean up. Curly tells him that he was the only one getting through, and Jimmy turns tables and start blaming Mike. He goes to see Mike and Linda, tells Linda that it was Mike who was aggravating Dean. Did Mike tell her what went on in there? Linda turns onJjimmy and says Mike was no more responsible than they were. Mike thanks Linda for sticking up for him, and they decide to wipe the slate clean after Linda tells him that he means more to her than anyone, even Mark he asks? She tells him they'll get the funeral out of the way, and then she needed see her family anymore.
Emma asks Curly what he said to Jimmy, and wishes that he hadn't spoken with him. Curly says maybe all of them were in the wrong, in unknown territory. She cries that she did what she was trained to do, but she's not been trained for his reaction. Curly tells her it's not her fault, neither of them should feel guilty. He tells her that he's let her down, and he'll never let it happen again.
Janice
Duggie is leaving without saying goodbye to Debs. He's keen to get started and realises that this isn't easy for her. She tells him his stars say he's due an unexpected windfall and he confirms he's meeting an old friend later. Vinnie comes for instructions and is given the new lease for the hardware store. When he gives it to Danny and Sally, they're amazed it's been 6 months already. They're more amazed when they see the rent has doubled. They lay into Vinnie but he knew nothing about it.
Les is worried that his bike will disappear from the garage. There's not much a man wouldn't do for £8,500. Dennis says that selling the bike will be the hardest thing he's ever done. Les maintains that it's his bike and he'll decide what happens to it.
Roy is worried he won't make a suitable father. The meeting showed up his social difficulties. Hayley says he's bound to be nervous but Roy thinks it's more than that and that parenting is out of his reach.
Emma has had nightmares again and doesn't know how she'll get back to work. Curly suggests she take up the offer of counselling. Or they could still go to France. She can't think about that now.
Linda returns to the factory and the girls give their condolences. Mike is also shocked to see her. She'd just decided to come in and immediately gets to work.
Audrey meets Gail and Bethany in the café. Gail's been into town where she signed up for a computer course. It's free and might lead to a better job. Vinnie joins Duggie at his table. Why wasn't he told about the rent increase? Danny walks in, waving the lease and shouting the odds. Duggie says they had a discounted rate earlier and he can't subsidise them forever. Danny thinks the truth is he's gone belly up and they have to bail him out. He throws the lease in Duggie's face. Vinnie wonders how Duggie can make them pay what they haven't got. But of course Duggie won't, that's Vinnie's job.
Curly meets Mike in the Post Office. He says Emma wasn't thinking straight the other night and Norris comments she could be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It makes you behave in an uncharacteristic way. This gets Curly thinking.
Alma is celebrating her birthday in the Rovers. She's going out to dinner with Frank later. Max thinks a siege is a strange way to meet a feller, but Audrey says you find them any way you can at their age.
Vinnie is getting a drink when Martin comes in and challenges him about the rent hike. Vinnie puts Nat in the picture: Duggie's trying to screw his tenants and leaving me to take the flak. They speculate that he's running out of options.
Mike wants to go to the funeral with Linda to give moral support. She thinks it will be bad enough without him stirring it more. She persuades him to go to his meeting.
Curly is still trying to persuade Emma to go to France. Entertaining Alice wouldn't give her any time to brood. And, they could fit in a romantic weekend in Paris. She doesn't want to take away time he could spend with his daughter. He feels he let her down when she needed him and wants to make it up. She agrees.
Interval
David's school has arranged an Outward Bound course. He's very excited and has it all planned. But it's £180 and he'd need equipment. Gail can't afford it. David thinks all they need do is ask Martin. And she'd soon find the money for Bethany. Gail tries to tell him they can't rely on Martin but finally agrees to speak to him.
Vera sees Hayley with a book about parenting which they pretend is for Sarah. Vera thinks if you're bringing a kiddie up properly you haven't time to read. She leaves. Roy thinks it's more responsible to find out as much as they can. But they're getting worried that their secret will soon be out. They need 3 referees for starters.
Dennis and Les are in the Rovers. He can't understand why a man so short of money as Les won't sell. Les agrees to go 50-50. After some bargaining, they agree on £5000 for him and the rest to Dennis. But he mustn't tell Janice. She comes in to drag the boys to dinner, and makes a reference to money being short. Les goes to the gents and Dennis nearly tells her about selling the bike but Les returns in time.
Frank and Alma are off to their meal. He gives her a present. (Hard to make out, but I think it was a pearl and gold brooch). They toast a great evening, the first of many.
Duggie is phoning his mate, and getting fobbed off. Nat approaches, and hears another contract is lost. But he's not sunk yet.
Roy is fretting about referees. Hayley suggests her Aunt Monica. Maybe someone work related. Or an authority figure. What about Jessica? Brilliant. They later agree on Gail as the third.
Martin and Gail are both on their way to the Rovers and enter together. He asks after the kids and she immediately takes offence. Sally and Danny are already there. Sally calls Gail over and Danny joins Martin at the bar. Gail tells Sally she wanted to speak to Martin but meeting him threw her. Nowadays even going for a drink is complicated. She can't see them ever being friends.
Curly and Emma sit with Max and Ash. Curly wants a fruity little number from the Loire but Ash already has one (meaning Max). They go to the bar and Max reveals that Ash has been very frisky since the siege and won't leave her alone. She hears they're going on holiday and persuades Ash to ask Fred for a week off. She wants to go to France too and she's not coming back alone this time.
Linda is looking at a family photo. Karen has been doing overtime and invites her to the pub. The photo is from Jimmy's 16th when Karen was going out with him. Their mum had left the night before. Linda has tears on her face. Maybe she shouldn't go to the funeral after all. They'll all say it's no use crying for Dean now, she shouldn't have left them. Maybe Jimmy's right and it's because she left. Karen says that Jimmy is just looking for someone to blame. Look what they did to her. Karen and anyone else would have left too. Linda calls herself a selfish cow, but Karen knows she sent money home. Perhaps she only did it to make herself feel better. It was too little too late.
Cadbury's Caramel is sponsoring the Street which thanks to ITV Television who own the copyright appeared earlier this evening on my screen so I was able to record events
Written by David Lane Directed by Tony Prescott
We open in Martin's new flat. David has stayed over and wants to complete the game they were playing. Martin simply wants some coffee to wake himself up. David does not give up and anyway he does not want to go home or to a party. Martin agrees to finish the game.
Vera and Jack are preparing for the engagement party. Vera is bemoaning the lack of a proper kitchen. Maria offers to help but there is little to be done - Jack is sent out for the drinks. Maria reckons she is nothing like Tyrone's mother - blonde and glam. Well Tyrone is not so sure about her being blonde - just a few highlights. Vera cracks up - in that case she must have been pouring highlights down the toilet to clean them for years!! <vbg>. Later Tyrone tries to explain his mother to Maria but sadly she fails to grasp the point of serial uncles. The phone goes and Tyrone answers it. Sadly it is Jackie - she has been locked up having been caught shoplifting - it was their engagement present - a music system, caught with the speakers because the lead was trailing. She phoned Tyrone before phoning the solicitors. {Thank goodness for that}.
Audrey is telling Gail about the holiday in France. Ashley, Fred, Maxine and Gail are all off to vive le difference for a week with a subsequent visit to met Curly and Emma at Raquel's. Martin returns David in time for the party and Martin and Audrey exchange words about a nurse fluttering her eyelashes at him whilst he accuses her of being a good time party girl. This upsets David who storms off upstairs.
Curly and Emma are also packing for their trip to France to see Raquel and daughter. Emma is worried - is she really expected? She seems unsure of what clothes she needs. Curly tries to re-assure Emma but she is not sure she is ready to meet the ex-wife.
Duggie wanders down Debs' stairs on the mobile trying to sort out some work. The call ends and she invites him to see some rugby game for which she has tickets, this afternoon. Sadly she has tickets for union and he played league (well be honest do you know the difference - just a load of men getting filthy). The door bell goes and at the same time the mobile rings (it is a wrong number). Audrey is at the front door and hands over the keys to the salon and the news that she and Maxine are off on holiday, but never mind she has found some help - Candice who is 14 now. Anyway Debs reckons they are only off for a few days - turns out it is the full fortnight!!
Kev has dropped off his kids at Sals and as he leaves he meets Martin outside. Kev remarks he gets the children tired and then hands them back when they are being difficult. They chat and Kev offers to get some beers and then go round to warm Martin's new flat as there had been no celebrations yet
Janice finds Les in Roys Rolls eating a huge meal. As he is skint she is surprised and Les tells how he has had a stroke of luck - he has met an old contact and managed to collect an old debt of £100 and he offers Janice £50 of his windfall. Janice reckons Les should have something more from Dennis for the bike. Janice tells him to enjoy his good fortune and hands the £50 back. Les cannot believe his luck and tucks into his meal.
After the break Duggie creeps up behind Debs and takes her up on the offer of the rugby - yes it is the wrong sort but they are getting better as he will explain to her. He picks up the mobile but Debs wants him to leave it behind - he just wants to get the business moving again. He agrees not to make any calls - only answer those he receives.
At the party we get to meet Maria's mother, Dotty. She and his father (Eric) are centre stage, with gormless son Kirk floating around in the background. They ask after Jackie - detained at work volunteers Jack and Vera; Tyrone observes that she would much rather be at the celebration than where she is. Maria's father asks if they are thinking of improving the house - a new kitchen volunteers Vera. Eric thought they might want to attend to the outside and remove the stone cladding. Whoops, Jack and Vera used to live there before. Tyrone leaps to the defence of the cladding and Norris reckons it makes a statement about the residents of the house which Vera takes as a compliment.
Kev and Martin are trying to build a bed. Martin asks Kev how he manages. Kev has decided he is living in a parallel universe - he has one life and whilst Alison was around it did not matter - but the garage was just across the road from Sal and the marital home. Martin explains about Rebecca and Dubai.
Les is barman at the party and is telling about early local weddings - Janice, Leanne etc. Anyway Tyrone and Maria are in no hurry and Jack is not going to encourage them to get married in a hurry. Les is telling Dennis how he cannot spend a penny of the £3500 because Janice is watching him like a hawk. Les has hidden the money down the side of the chair and Janice won't find it until she does a proper clean just before Christmas.
Curly is telling Emma about his history with Raquel. He wants to talk and refuses to let Emma stop him. Raquel was always unobtainable - until she wanted to get out of a bad relationship. Once she knew him properly she dumped him - they both knew deep down they were not right for each other, whereas he and Emma know they are right. But Emma questions we have not been able to support each other this week. Curly admits he could find the words until now but "Emma Taylor, I love you" are the ones he has on his mind. They embrace and the difficulties of the last week are laid aside.
Back at the party everyone is discussing Jackie Dobbs. Les is unhappy with Janice - she would want to fritter away the £3500 on savings and suchlike - Jackie knew how to have a good time. (Is it all over between Les and Janice?) Anyway Tyrone decides the time has come. He tells Eric and Dotty the truth about his mother - prison, gbh, regular trouble with the police and today's arrest. Tyrone will always love her because she is his mum - that's the way it is.
On the Street Curly is waiting for the taxi (not StreetCars) when Emma emerges to apologise for her behaviour - but Curly says she has had a lot to worry about. The phone goes and she goes back indoors. Max and Ash wander over and collect contact details as they plan to meet up in France. Ash is not looking forward to going through the Channel Tunnel - all that water up above and he cannot fly like Curly and Emma. Anyway Max is looking forward to using the bosses' credit cards during the stay in Paris!! Emma emerges to say that she has been re-instated to office duties on her return from holiday - so the pressure is off and she looks much relieved. Curly reckons they will have a good time on holiday.
Kev and Martin have finished building the bunk beds. Kev asks Martin if he will chase off after Rebecca. Martin reckons not. He does not think he would get a warm welcome and now the moment has passed. At the moment Martin is still wearing his wedding ring.
Back at the party Maria's parents congratulate Tyrone on being brave and honourable in speaking up for his mother. They hand over a cheque for £100 as a present to start saving. Jack and Vera return from seeing people out - whilst they are around Tyrone has a great family with them, Maria and her parents.
Debs and Duggie return with Debs in a real mood. Duggie goes upstairs as Vinny arrives. Duggie's mobile goes again and she tells the caller to ring back tomorrow. Duggie rushes downstairs to find out who called but Debs is fed up with him treating her home as his office. He reckons this might have been the call to save his business and starts pushing her around. Vinny grabs him and separates them. Duggie has another go at Debs. She hits him and tells him to go out and not come back. Vinny and Duggie depart.
Sadly the Duggie / Debs storyline has blown up from nothing to a major disaster in no time. She wanted him to move - she should have sorted the ground rules first.
Rebecca come back and rescue Martin please.
Will the departure of Debs, Vinny and Natalie allow some nice normal people to arrive who can settle down with Kevin, Martin and Norris?
Curly and Emma arrive at Chateau Armand. She's been asleep, so is a bit overwhelmed when the car stops and she sees a fairytale castle in beautiful countryside. They're met by Christine, the housekeeper. Emma starts talking French to her but she's English. Their flight was delayed, so Raquel and Armand have already left.
The other French party are at the foot of the Eiffel tower. Audrey arrives with the tickets. However, neither Fred nor Ashley are too keen, though Ash is eventually persuaded. Audrey can't understand how he can face up to armed desperados, but the thought of climbing a tower makes him weak.
The next time we see them, Audrey and Maxine are admiring the view and pointing out landmarks. Ash is clinging to the metalwork and looking very white. He feels the tower is swaying. Max assures him it isn't, but Audrey's guidebook says different.
Christine has laid out a lunch in the garden. She finds Alice but explains she's probably a bit confused. She's only 3 and so can't understand why everyone else has gone, while she's left with these 2 strangers. Curly is concerned she'll see this as a punishment and gets a bit stroppy. (Christine's French to Alice throughout is appalling).
The party return from the tower, Ash being carried by a burly fireman.
Curly explains that Armand wants Alice to learn French first, so he can't even speak to her properly. He gets self-pitying. What can he offer her anyway? Emma reassures him that Alice will see he's a lovely bloke. Yes, one her mam didn't want to stay with. Emma looks hurt and leaves.
Meanwhile, Audrey is leading a route march up the steps of Sacre Coeur. Fred is struggling. He thought they were heading for the funicula (pronounced Feeny-Koo-Lar by Audrey in an attempt to be posh). No, they passed that ages ago. A revolt ensues. It's their holiday too, they won't be bullied by Audrey. She ceremoniously hands over the guidebook.
The next time we see them they're sitting in a café in Montmartre. An artists starts sketching Fred. How much, asks Audrey. Madame, I am an artist, I couldn't resist this face. Yes, people have remarked on Fred's distinctive profile. But there is a price. Max and Ash have to go to his studio to view his artwork. They agree. Once there, Ash is questioned about how long they've been married. He's a lucky man, Maxine is magnifique. Doesn't he want to preserve her beauty forever? A portrait for example? Max hears this and her eyes light up.
Emma plays with Alice, throwing her a ball. She does understand some English. Curly concedes and has a try. He manages to wop Alice on the head and she cries. Christine hugs her and when Curly tries to comfort her, Alice shouts: Go away, I don't like you, in broad Lancashire.
Interval
Curly and Emma have moved to the pool and have an argument over childcare. Emma says it's her holiday too and Curly is being childish. He responds by jumping in the water.
Max comes out of the studio, saying: I can't believe I did it, Ash will get such a shock (sounds like a nude portrait to me). He's been waiting outside and says he's sick of walking round looking at things. She suggests they go back to the hotel and see what happens. She's turned on by being in Paris with the man she loves.
Fred and Audrey are at Notre Dame, discussing the hunchback and Esmeralda. Audrey says she was able to see the beauty inside him and fell in love with that. Fred doesn't think this would happen in real life. Could Audrey say, fall for someone who was ugly and deformed? Audrey tells Fred he's not a hunchback but a lovely, lovely man. Fred looks thoughtful. They go on a boat trip down the Seine (which we don't see) and later have a romantic meal at the top of a restaurant with a panoramic view of the city at night. They agree they're having a wonderful time and what really makes it is the company.
Alice has gone to bed and Curly's reflecting on what Emma said. Alice is only 3 and can't be expected to understand everything yet. And she is a great kid isn't she? He can't believe she's his flesh and blood. He decides to read her a bedtime story.
Fred and Audrey are drinking champagne after their meal. The siege is mentioned and Audrey says she didn't know what she'd do if anything had happened to him. He didn't think he had anyone who would be worried about him, unlike the rest of the them there, but she says he will always be special to her. He starts touching on his previous proposals but at this point the others arrive. They've been talking to Emma and want to visit her at the Chateau. Fred gets very cross. Why can't they be satisfied with Paris and stay put? He storms off. Ash goes after him and Fred reveals he was about to propose. It's not his fault but it was a perfect moment. He can sense that something has changed in Audrey's attitude to him and that this time she'll say yes.
Gail and David are rushing round the house after breakfast. They dash out leaving her alone with Candice.
Duggie and Vinnie have an argument in the Kabin and then into the street because he has not been paid any wages. Duggie gives Vinnie £50 to "get him by".
Deidre asks Liz if she has decided how long she is staying in Wetherfield. She says she doesn't know. Liz seems accromonius with Steve.
Les confesses to Janice that he has no money. Janice says she will help, and they can pool their resources.
Duggie chats to a friend at the Council. He thinks Duggie needs to counteract the bad publicity he has had.
Liz and Steve visit Jim. She says she would like to stay on at his house if that is ok. Jim says he doesn't mind, he is hardly in a position to object.
Vikram books an appointment at the hairdressers, where Candice is working as a junior.
Dev realising that Duggie has a cash-flow problem, offers to buy his house. They settle on a deal to Dev's favour.
Liz thinks that Jim ought to use Natalie's reward money to get himself a better lawyer. Jim is not interested.
Ken tells Deidre that he has been invited for an interview with regard to him becomming a magistrate. She is destracted by him by him chosing interior furnishings for his new house.
Liz tells Jim that she loves him and urges him to take Natalie's money.
Les has bought new clothes, and tells Janice that it was a gift from Charlie. She believes him and says she will still pay for a meal out.
Gail borrows Ken's lap top computer for practise over the weekend. Sarah can't go out for the evening as there is nobody to look after Bethanie.
Duggie is going to tell the press that the bad publicity was all the fault of the tenant and Vinnie. Vinnie hears from Natalie that he has taken her sister out to an expensive resturant. So when Duggie returns they have an argument in the pub and tells him to stick his job.
Tomorrow (Sunday's) episode is another in France - as will be Wednesday's.
The problem with coming back from a hot country (Canary Islands) to cold Britain, is I have caught a cold. Anybody know any good remedies?!
Martin Rosen
Written by Julie Gearey Directed by Graham Wetherell
We are in France and Curly and Alice wake Emma. Emma is not happy - a bad dream. Alice is taking Curly to the bottom of the garden to see the fairies. Emma goes back to sleep.
Fred, Ash, Max and Audrey arrive at the chateau which is an amazing place. Fred is planning on proposing to Audrey but he is waiting the perfect moment. Ash points out it is a romantic setting but Max tells him to stop encouraging Fred.
Curly and Emma are eating breakfast when the door bell rings and the maid goes to let in the visitors. The maid lets them stammer through some awful French before announcing that she comes from Bradford!! Emma is clearly unhappy at the time Curly is spending with Alice. Max has been hitting the credit cards hard. Both Armand and Raquel departed before Curly and Emma arrived.
A huge lunch is laid out a little later and the maid dispenses home made lemonade. Game sausage and local pates are on offer. Curly is playing with Alice. Emma admits the holiday has allowed her to put recent events behind her - so Fred goes to a length to remind her of her heroics.
Emma and Maxine go for a walk. Emma says she cannot get the image out of her head as they walk past the pool. The influence of Raquel - although she is not jealous - simply reminds Emma of how nice she is and how good a mother she is. So why did she ill-treat Curly? Max decides the time has come to tell Emma the truth about Des and Raquel. Emma cannot understand Raquel's behaviour and eventually she now she knows the truth she goes to find Curly to discuss. She walks in on Curly talking about Raquel to Alice. Curly is quite unhappy - he and Alice are occupying different worlds, yet if things had been different she would have been in Weatherfield with him and Raquel. So close and yet so far. Emma hears all of this.
The maid has taken quite a shine to Fred and he is invited to go and see a pig farm in the village - but Audrey overhears and reminds him that they are going to a vineyard. Fred is like two dogs with a bone according to Ashley. Fred smiles in his leering fashion at the thought!
At the vineyard they specialise in Chenin Blanc. Audrey takes the opportunity to run down the maid. The winemaker is describing how to make wine - with a song in your soul. Some tasting is then undertaken and Fred shows how to do it - and spit it out. Audrey on the other hand goes for the full glass. Later Audrey wanders through the vines with Francois and but makes himself the usual wonderful Frenchman. Fred tells Audrey that he has bought her the vines as a thank you present.
Ashley reckons it is too quiet for him - could they all go back to Paris together? Curly wants to stay with Alice and wait for Raquel's return - "Well that's a surprise" says Emma with a real cutting edge. Curly and Emma are arguing over their opposite feelings. Emma tells him that her problem is with Raquel and she storms off.
Max and Ash are playing with Alice and enjoying every minute. Max wants to sit down and talk about their future - maybe having a family. Ash reckons it is great and then Max pushes him in the pool.
Fred and Audrey are walking back discussing Fred's generosity and the eventual glass they will be able to raise. Eventually Fred proposes to Audrey and she says "Yes, yes I will". After asking her several times she is still saying yes. Audrey has had such a lovely time. She has said no before but now she feels right with him. He lifts her high - but will it last?
Emma and Curly are rowing over the "presence" of Raquel - she might as well be the way they talk about her. Emma taxes Curly with the truth and Emma cannot compete with the "love of his life". Curly talks about the shared history but Emma asks the difficult question - if Raquel walked through the door and said it was all a terrible mistake and can she come back to Weatherfield and the Street how would he answer. Sadly Curly does not immediately answer with the right answer - that he would not touch her with a bargepole but in fact stands there flabbergasted and unable to speak. Emma knows the absence of an answer means she is second best and whilst she thought they had a future together she cannot accept that and it is all over, so she storms out as Fred arrives noisily (as ever). Fred wants them all out on the terrace for an announcement.
Max and Ash are discussing children - theirs. Fred and Audrey announce their engagement - to Fred's delight and surprise. Max and Ash offer their congratulations as does the maid who breaks out some champagne. Curly tries to explain to Emma. She refuses to listen and she has decided to go to Paris with the others without Curly. He realises what he has lost (but perhaps not completely?).
Dennis meets Les in the pub. Les says he has got him in a drink - only he will have to pay for it!
Natalie suggests to Vinnie that he tries to make ammends with Dougie. Vinnie says no.
Dougie tells Debs that he is speaking to someone from the local paper to put his side of the story.
Vikram makes a date with Candice at the hairdressers, not realising how young she is.
Anthony tells Rita that his son and daughter have also invited him out for his birthday. (Presumably you have now "met" Anthony. What do you think of him?)
Candice tells Sarah that Vikram has invited her out. Sarah thinks that he is probably too old for her.
Duggie tells the reporter "his side" of the story. He says that the evection was done without his knowledge, that he condems the decision and tactics used. He has sacked the person responsible.
Sarah warns Candice about going out with an older man.
Michael turns up to surprise Liz. He wants to know why Liz is there. She explains she is looking after her son and her ex-husband.
Debs and Natalie have a brief discussion about Vinnie and Duggie, but disagree. They agree not to pursue the conversation.
Steve comes home and sees Michael there. He decides he wants to go out for dinner. Michael suspects that Liz wants to get away from him. She denies it.
Anthony's daughter is very suspicious of Rita and makes sacastic remarks aimed at her.
Duggie tells Debs that he has spoken to the reporter, but she will have to wait to see the report.
Vikram takes Candice almost home, and gives her a kiss. He promises another date.
Liz tells Deidre that Michael is not happy that she is there.
Janice goes to put Les' coat on the coat rail and lot of money falls out. Dennis says it is share of the bike (sold?). Janice is going to take revenge for Les not telling her about the money.
Martin Rosen
