Wednesday 1 November

Max and Ash are having breakfast. Emma has already gone shopping. Fred enters with Audrey on his arm. Ash asks if he slept well and is stunned to hear "Not a wink". But Fred only means that he was too excited to sleep, knowing his fiancee was down the hall.

Christine asks after Emma in the chateau kitchen. Will she be coming back? She'd been waiting for them to have a row since they arrived. It's not very romantic to take your new girlfriend to your ex-wife's home.

Fred says he expects a full-cooked breakfast every morning when they're married. Audrey says he'll have to cook it himself as she's got a salon to run. There's a brief discussion as to whether she'll keep this on. Fred doesn't mind as long as she isn't too tired when she gets home (nudge nudge). Today, he and Ash are on a fact-finding mission to a charcuterie. This doesn't impress the girls, who decide to go shopping.

Curly explains to Christine. This was supposed to be their chance to sort things out but it hasn't worked out. Emma needs some space and he doesn't know if they're still together. Christine suggests he to go to Paris after her, it's only 3 hours drive.

Max joins Audrey getting ready in her room and asks if she's sure about marrying Fred. She's turned him down before, so what's changed? Fred is decent and charming and I'm older and wiser. Max comments she won't want for anything. Are you suggesting I'm a gold digger? Fred is very thoughtful and caring under all the bluster. Max adds that Fred is looking forward to a healthy sex life. Audrey fancies him in a way. But dose she love him? She concedes to being very fond of him. However, Audrey is starting to wonder if she's doing the right thing.

Fred meanwhile is reminiscing to Ash that he first met Audrey in France. It was at a black pudding contest in Charlesville. He hadn't spoken to her before, but admired her from afar. On this occasion, he sat next to her at a dinner and brushed some pork grilet off her blouse. She said "You're very sensitive for a butcher" and he's been under her spell ever since. Now he's happier than he ever thought possible.

Curly has decided to go to Paris for a couple of days. He says goodbye to Alice and gets a hug.

The group meet up at a café, where Fred extols the French way with pork butchery. They use the ears, tail, snout and all. Max and Ash go back to the hotel, but Fred has a surprise for Audrey. He takes her to a very posh jewellers, where they get out the diamond solitaires. As the assistant leaves, Audrey is clearly uncomfortable about them getting a ring now, especially in such an expensive place and tries to put Fred off. But he wants to do it as a symbol of their bond.

Interval

Back at the hotel, Max hints to Ash that Audrey is having second thoughts. They meet Emma in the lobby, but she's off on a boat-trip.

Audrey is spoilt for choice but eventually tries on a 2 carat diamond (beautiful and large). She's entranced, but then comes to and says she can't accept it. Fred can't believe she's not in the mood for buying diamonds, but she persuades him to leave. Outside, she tells him she can't marry, him , she said it on the spur of the moment but now she's had time to think. He's worried it's because he was being so flash and now she thinks he's trying to buy her. She's very repentant and says she's very flattered but it wouldn't be right to marry him. Fred is distraught. He tells her he loves her and wants to spend the rest of his life with her. But sadly, Audrey doesn't feel the same. This makes Fred angry. So why did she say yes, she must have known what she felt then. Did she feel sorry for him, or was it a joke? He can't understand how anyone could be so cruel and callous. He turns away.

Max and Ash are having tea in the lobby when Curly arrives. They point him after Emma and then return to talking about the portrait. Max reveals it was a nude (I knew it!) What, with no clothes on! shouts Ash. Her argument is that she'll lose her figure when after she's pregnant and wants it captured on canvas now. Ash can't get past the first bit. You let a Frenchman oggle (sic) at your naked body? Wait til I get my hand on the filthy swine.

Curly runs to the boat in time to see Emma getting on. He sits beside her. She was just thinking about him and gives him a delighted hug.

Still arguing, the couple arrive at the studio. Where will she hang this portrait anyway? Over the mantelpiece? Max tells Ash to get over his hangups about the naked human form. The artist arrives (and for some reason, calls Max Mamselle, not Madame). Ash tells him to keep his grubby hands off his wife. As the artist unveils the portrait, he explains he was trying to capture her unique beauty. Max is horrified and Ash laughs his socks off. The portrait is abstract and shows Max with green toes and a huge bottom. It's truly awful. Max thinks a 5 year old could do better, and I have to agree.

Curly and Emma are making up. She did want to see Alice, but what she didn't want was him moping round after his ex. It made her feel insecure. Curly refers back to a question she'd asked: what would he do if Raquel asked him back. He doesn't think he's been very honest with Emma or himself.

The couple return with the painting and meet Audrey in the lobby. They notice she looks awful. She tells them the wedding is off.

The boat passes Notre Dame. Fred is staring into the water from the bridge, reliving the night of his (attempted) proposal, when Audrey said such lovely things to him. Meanwhile, another proposal is taking place below. Curly isn't in love with Raquel but she still makes him sad, and Alice will always be a link between them. But he doesn't think he ever did love her. He was obsessed and infatuated, but it was all from his side. With Emma, it's equal and honest and real. He can't believe he's met someone who makes him feel so.......This is what real love feels like. Emma admits to feeling the same. They kiss. Curly says he won't find a more romantic setting, Will you marry me? Yes says Emma.


Friday 3 November

Steve and Vikram are in the cornershop discussing Vikram's date with Candice.

Deidre discusses with Dev Liz's relationship with Jim.

Dennis and Janice discuss Les' money. Dennis wonders what revenge she is going to exact on Les.

Sally confronts Duggie in the Kabin and says she can't afford 50% rent increase he has demanded. After negiotiation and with Blanche interferring, they make an agreement.

Toyah, Natalie, Debs and Vinnie read the local Gazette together, which vindicates Duggie and puts Vinnie as the bad-guy.

Michael takes Steve's visiting permit to see Jim.

Anthony's daughter comes to see Rita. Shei is trying to put Rita off seeing her father.

Michael asks Jim what is going on between him and Liz. Jim says she was with him for 25 years and they have a lot of history.

Rita warns kids to be careful with fireworks [last year she was annoyed with Sharon for even thinking of selling them].

Vikram meets Candice in the Kabin and asks her about for a drink.

Vinnie and Duggie have an argument over the newspaper article. Debs gets involved and then chucks Duggie out of her house.

Anthony tells Rita that he is not going to stop seeing her because of his daughter.

Canidce and Vikram go for a drink in the Rovers. Rita seems them and calls out that she is only 14.

Liz explains to Michael that she can't turn her back on Jim.

Candice tells Sarah that Vikram never wants to see her again.

Michael and Liz have a heart to heart. He asks her to come back home with him. she says she can't.

Natalie tells Vinnie that he should have expected Duggie to stitch him up.

Les comes home and says he has won £300 and offers to take her out for a meal. He notices his coat is missing. He asks Janice what has happened to it. She says she has given it to David Platt. He goes to Gail who says it was given back to Jack Duckworth. He then sees Vera who says there was nothing in it. When he accuses her of stealing her money, Janice comes in and throws the money over him and says she never wants to see him again.

Martin Rosen


Sunday 5 November

There were fireworks on the Street tonight - skip to the end of this update for full information - which as ever was brought to us courtesy of ITV Television who retain all copyright and Cadbury's Fruit and Nut who sponsored its appearance

Written by Phil Ford, Directed by Philip Wood.

Janice refuses to eat the cooked breakfast Dennis has prepared. Janice cannot forgive Les's duplicity and Dennis tries to get Janice to se another point of view. Janice reckons that having anything to do with Les is like waterski-ing down the back of the Titanic - he ends up bring you down wi' 'im. Dennis offers to look for somewhere else to live, Janice tells him to stay put - and anyway Les is not returning.

Over the Street Natalie is visiting Debs. Debs is fairly disheartened by Duggie's comments. She is clearly not wife material - simply a flamin' convenience. Debs never got anything back out of the relationship. Natalie reckons the only idiot round here is Duggie for letting Debs go. {Natalie was poorly shot in this scene - the bump was in evidence, although they have been hiding it for weeks}. Natalie invites her over for a drink later.

Over in the Kabin Martin tells Vinny that Duggie has moved into one of his own flats and is now a neighbour. Vinny explains that Duggie is no longer his boos and that he hates him. A new character arrives - Molly Hardcastle, practice nurse at the new health centre in Rosamond Street tells Rita about her craving to keep her tongue busy whilst she is working - even on Sundays. Meanwhile David has chosen his sweets and a computer magazine for Gail (sadly she seems to have been bought last month's edition compared with the one on my desk) to assist with her training (a simpler primer should have been chosen - but never mind). David explains about the job at the health centre.

Les arrives with flowers but Dennis opens the door and tells him he is unlikely to welcomed. Les tells him he has it wrong. Falling out and making up is an essential element of any marriage and the re-union in the marital bed will provide the display for the day. Dennis reckons the marriage is falling apart like a MkII Cortina. Les tells him to watch and learn and he calls Janice. Les apologies but Janice is not keen. Les offers to pay the bills but Janice explains they were paid with the 500 Dennis gave her. She screws up the flowers and tells Les to stick them (and his head) where the sun does not shine - she collapses against the reassuring Dennis.

In a cinema foyer Sarah and Candice are discussing Vik. Candice is not sure where it would have gone. The two girls eye up two boys (who both look in need of brain and personality transplants) who turn out to be seeing the same film so they go in together.

Over at the Rovers Molly Hardcastle is having her usual second pint to get her mind off work, Toyah has been trying to convince her of the benefits of alternative cures but Molly is not so sure - can she have some scratchings - and anyway those people who go on about crystals drive her mad. The only crystal she wants is a great big diamond on her third finger - that will make her feel better. Vera asks about the pints and scratchings - Molly is hardly setting a good example is she? Molly responds that she is well, her heart is working and she does not smoke. Vera threatens to go private! Vinny arrives in the Rovers and he asks Natalie if she can have his old job back. Natalie says no - there is no job. On the other hand Vinny humps a few crates after he has spent the night humping Natalie. She reckons that is a terrible thing to say but that is how Vinny sees it. Natalie is seen in thought (or something) as we go to the break.

Up at the Big House Jim greets Liz- what did Michael want when he came to see him. Jim brings Liz up to date (when will she get her hair cut). Jim wants to know if Liz is there for him or running away from Michael? Liz knows how difficult it all is - Jim really wants to know. Liz tries to leave but Jim tells her to stay - Michael hinted at feelings Liz still had damaging her relationship with Michael. Again she says she loves Jim and she will stay.

Vinny literally walks into Debs and the two of them discuss the curse of Duggie - she has a litre bottle of wine and a meal cooking - too much for one would Vinny like to join in toasting Duggie over a red hot fire? He cannot refuse.

Vinny and Debs are finishing their meal and although the wine is finished Debs has something else to drink. They discuss Duggie and seeing the world. Vinny has never been very far.

Back at the cinema the four youths emerge discussing the film. One of the boys asks Sarah if she goes to the films regularly - no she does not go out much - why - oh family stuff - really boring - and passes over it. He then asks Sarah to the fireworks tonight and she agrees. Candice then asks the other boy - but he cannot go with her - he already has a girlfriend he is taking. Candice takes Sarah off but the boy hurriedly writes down his phone number and asks for a call. Sarah goes off smiling like she is the cat who got the cream.

Martin brings David home and Martin asks Gail about the magazine. Martin wants to know about the job - well Gail needs some money coming in - she wants a life and she wants to be independent. Gail reckon that Martin walking out on her has kick started her life - made her realise there is a future.

Vinny and Debs are very close on the sofa and deep in the bottle. Debs reveals that Duggie's performance in bed was not good. It is the first time Debs and Vinny have talked and then almost inevitably they kiss. And get passionate.

Over at the Rovers Natalie is popping out to see Vinny and Toyah will hold the fort. Toyah serves Les a pint and he notices Duggie on his own - Toyah tells him that he has been kicked out as well. Les buys a second drink and goes to join Duggie. Liz is bringing Dreary up to date with her visit. Liz tells Dreary that she and Michael have split up. Liz realises it was a fairy tale with Michael - and it has come to an end when Michael wanted children. Liz doesn't really know about Jim - but it is right that Michael is out of her life.

Over in the booth Les is failing to cheer up Duggie but Duggie opens Les's eyes to Dennis - and they are living under the same roof. Duggie reckons Les is worse off than he is and he is going to sort it out with Debs before anyone move under her roof.

Les rushes down the Street with Toyah following and hauls Dennis out of the house and they start fighting. Janice eventually separates them and the four of them watch astounded the events -

On the other side of the Street Duggie has found Vinny with his trousers off and Debs with her top hanging off. Duggie pulls Vinny out into the street and start fighting. Natalie returns in a taxi and asks what has happened - Duggie tells her to ask her boyfriend or her little sister, both of whom are partially clothed. Debs responds - she is sorry they had been drinking. Natalie decides that Debs is to blame and snacks her round the face and adds two words "You bitch". Duggie and Vinny are left glowering at each other.

So that was the conflagration over in Weatherfield.

Pity that Gabrielle Glaister gets her best moment shortly before departure, perhaps Max would like her back on the Close as I gather Susannah bit the dust last week.

New faces tonight as the health centre opening approaches. And how will Sarah eventually explain the family stuff to the boyfriend. And why does Candice have such poor taste in men?

And is Martin starting to realise what made Gail attractive in the first place - an independent woman in control of her life?

And will Liz do anything about the appalling hairstyle?


Monday 6 November

Betty, Toyah and the cleaning woman (whose name I have forgotten!) are talking about Natalie's street brawl the previous night. Whereas Betty and Toyah are sympathetic to Natalie, cleaning woman isn't. Natalie comes into the room.

Dennis and Janice are chatting. Dennis feels awkward about the situation. Les comes in, but even though he starts coughing, Janice has no sympathy for him and chucks him out again.

Natalie and Betty talk about Debs. She wonders how long the affair has been going on. She says she will never forgive her sister.

Les goes to the cafe and surprised that Toyah charges for breakfast. She thinks it is wrong that Les had tried to hide the money from Janice.

Liz and Steve chat in the corner shop. She tells him that her and Michael have split up.

Vinnies comes to the pub. He has come to collect his things. Natalie ask him how long has he been going with Debs. He says it was only the once.

Les goes to stay in a posh hotel. The only have a superior room available. The receptionist asks for his credit card, but he gives her £500 cash deposit.

Vinnie tells Natalie that he worshiped her, but she never responded to him. She always did what she wanted to do, without consideration for others. She chucks him out.

Maxine, Ashley, Fred and Audrey return from France. Fred is being miserable and doesn't want to speak with Audrey. Audrey notices the hairdressers is closed. Debs is upstairs, mierable and nursing a headache.

Maxine comes into the pub and asks Natalie where Maxine was. She says she doesn't know nor car.

Liz tells Natalie she should confront Debs rather than pushing it away.

Les lives like royalty in the hotel.

Ashley tries to console Fred. Maxine joins them; Fred goes because he thinsk Audrey will be right behind.

Vinnie goes round to see Debs. He thinks they cold make a go of things. She says it was one of those things, and it was love.

Natalie seems Vinie leaving a building and kising goodbye to Debs.

Martin Rosen


Wednesday 8 November

Curly and Emma are in the café. Emma is very quiet, she's worried about going back to work. Curly assures her they understand and won't throw her in the deep end. And she'll get a surprise when she gets home.

In the Rovers room, Natalie is updating Betty on recent events. Duggie arrives to ask after Nat. But she blames him for what happened, as it's his fault Debs was unhappy. She rejects his help.

Deirdre is round at Dev's, where he's got flu. (He looks awful). The trip was partly an excuse to get a look at his house, but she takes charge and goes shopping for medicine and to restock his fridge.

Liz goes into the Rovers to speak to Natalie, but she still doesn't want to discuss the money. Liz has found a new solicitor for Jim, but has lost her own job. Les turns up in a snakeskin jacket, black leather trousers and orange shirt. He looks ridiculous and everyone baits him. But he claims this is designer gear and all the chains will be full of his look next year. He gets a whiskey and makes sure everyone sees his wad of cash when he pays. However, he doesn't know how to smoke a cigar and Nat has to advise him.

Alma sees Hayley filling in forms in the café and hears their secret. She's shocked at first but soon comes round and wishes them all the best. She thinks they'll make wonderful parents.

Deirdre returns to Dev's with the shopping and today's paper. He reads it while she rustles up some soup for him. He doesn't know how he managed without her.

Back in the Rovers, Les is on his mobile to someone called John and lets everyone know he's staying at the Imperial Hotel. Toyah attacks him for spending all the money when Janice has nothing and expects him to have frittered it all by the weekend. Janice arrives, looking awful but can't stand Les being there and leaves again. Debs wants to talk to Nat and is invited into the back room.

She says it was a silly mistake and she'll never forgive herself. When Nat saw Vinnie the other night she was making him leave, Nat can ask him. Nat would rather drop dead. Debs says it was a moment of madness but Nat sees it as betrayal. (Throughout, Debs appears very contrite and Nat deeply hurt).

In the bar, Alma is getting an update from Audrey. Why did she accept Fred's proposal. Well, she was a bit merry, and there was the vineyard and it was so romantic and just felt right. And now Fred hates her. No, he adores you says Alma. Yes, that's the problem, muses Audrey.

Debs is now backpedalling and trying to justify her actions. She wasn't trying to take Vinnie away from Nat like she did with her and Paul Shepherd amongst others. (There's clearly a lot of bitterness and unresolved issues here). Nat was always pushing Vinnie away. The conversation turns into a heated argument and can be clearly heard at the bar. "You used him like you use everyone else". Les shouts that he'll buy everyone a drink but is hushed up as they all tune in. Toyah wonders if they should break them up but Betty says no fear. The voices are loud but indistinct til we hear "Cheap tart!" and Debs is propelled into the room by Nat. Get out of this pub now, get out of my house tonight and get out of my life forever, she shouts and pushes Debs bodily out of the door. (Superb scene).

Interval

At prison visiting, Liz tells Jim about the new solicitor. She's been to two, one expensive, one no win no fee. She thinks the expensive one is best. Jim wants to talk about Liz's feelings for him but she remains cagey. He doesn't want her to say anything she doesn't mean.

Emma has returned and had a calm day doing paperwork. Her boss will arrange counselling and what about the surprise? Curly has been trying to book a church, but the next free Sat isn't til Sept. So, he's booked a Sun instead, Xmas Eve, in 6 weeks time! He produces a diamond engagement ring. (Aah!)

Les is back at his hotel, drinking a blue lagoon in the bar. He zooms in on an attractive woman, trying to read quietly by herself. He tells her that's he's looking to buy a club in the area, to go with the one he has in London. What does she do? I'm a Marketing Consultant. (posh voice, nice suit, glasses, hair up). Les puts his arm round and says his dad worked on the markets. The woman makes her escape.

Les homes in on another target, a much less decorously dressed woman showing plenty of thigh. She hangs on his every word and is delighted to hear he'll be around for some time. She has an appointment now but if he wants some company, he should give her a call. Les looks at her card: June Meadows.

Dennis is watching TV. Is there anything Janice wants to watch? She doesn't understand the question as Les has never asked this before. She doesn't want to go to the Rovers in case he's in there.

Liz quizzes Deirdre on Dev's house and expresses an interest in the man himself.

Curly and Emma arrive and he makes an announcement. My future bride and I have set a date. Champagne all round! He wants Ash to be his best man and he practices by proposing a toast. He then goes to get Max and bumps into Audrey. She's been trying to ring Fred but Ash suggests he knows it's her calling and isn't answering. Why can't she marry him, he's a top bloke? Yes, and he deserves a proper marriage to a woman who can return his feelings and really love him. And you think he can find that? We all live in hope, says Audrey.

Vinnie comes out of the Kabin to find Duggie waiting. Is that how you pull, a few cans and a bag of crisps? Vinnie didn't treat her like a scrubber. We both know she is one though, says Duggie, or why would she have gone with you? To remind her what a real man's like. You didn't measure up in that department. Duggie goes for him. You sorry little loser. You couldn't even fetch and carry properly. Vinnie wonders if this is the liar or the bankrupt talking. Well it's not the mug who worked for no pay. You never were very smart Vinnie. Duggie laughs and leaves.

Danny has been watching and suggests that now isn't the time to give his rent to Duggie. Vinnie gets an idea. No it's not, why doesn't he take it. And then he'll make a start on the other tenants.


Friday 10 November

Debs meets Natalie in the street and tries to apologise again. Natalie still does not want to know.

Roy is talking to Alma about adopting. He is worried he won't be able to adapt as he is a creature of habit.

Liz starts work in the Rovers.

Les tells Dennis how his jacket is pulling in the babes. He has a date tonight.

Debs tells Vinnie that she is upset by Natalie. He tells her that he's going to leave the area. Debs also says she is trying to get back onto a ship. Vinnie thinks that they ought to try and get together.

Natalie tells Liz that she is going on holiday and makes her manageress.

Dev thinks Deidre ought to have a mobile phone. He also wants her to spend less time behind the counter, but wants her to supervise his shops instead. He says he will refine her job description.

Natalie calls round to Debs. She tries to patch things up. She thinks that Vinnie made a beeline for her to get at Natalie. Vinnie then shouts down from upstairs, not realising Natalie was there. Natalie accuses Debs of lying and being sordid.

Les meets his date at the hotel. He orders the finest champagne.

Vinnie suggests now that it is out in the open, they ought to get together and go to Newcastle together.

Les suggests to Judith they go for a meal and then onto a nightclub. She says they both know what they want, and they should get down to business.

Debs agrees to go with Vinnie.

Les takes Judith to his room and she starts undressing. When she asks for money he realises what she is. He refuses to give her money. She refuses to leave without payment. Les threatens to call the hotel manager, and she says she will ring her boyfriend. He pays her £50.

Fred gives Ashley a surprise. A new bacon slicer.

Vinnie goes round to Fred to collect the rent for Duggie.

Roy and Hayley go to adopting and foster parents meeting. They have a number of questions.

Ashley meets Duggie and says Fred was unhappy at having paid Vinnie £200 in cash.

Debs and Vinnie are leaving in a taxi and Duggie sees them leaving, and tries to stop them, but to no avail.

Martin Rosen


Sunday 12 November

The Street is in another phase of change. Characters departing left, right and centre together with new arrivals scheduled both in terms of people and sets. Friday night saw the arrival of Ashley's new shop and Debs and Vinny leaving. Will we end up with a better of worse Street - who knows? But it will be different. One thing is certain a lot of money is being invested in extending the Street and its environs.

Anyway events in Weatherfield roll along courtesy of ITV Television Ltd who retain the copyright in the events and sponsored by Cadbury's Fruit & nut

Written by Julie Gearey. Directed by Brian Mills.

Dreary has received some flowers from Dev and is arranging them in the shop when Liz arrives. Dreary thinks it is a nice thank you and does not know why Liz is making so much fuss about it. Liz has a huge bundle of magazines for Jim but as Deirdre explains - from one who knows - she will not be allowed to hand those over to Jim. Roy and Hayley enter the shop discussing the visitors who are coming later. Roy is not sure he is looking forward to it.

In the Street Audrey is reading the letter from Debs as she tells Alma - it is a drawback being an employer. Fred wanders up and chats to Alma totally ignoring Audrey who is hurt by his behaviour, Fred does not even say good morning to her. Fred is going to see the new shop and walks straight past Audrey.

Dennis is mending a table for Janice. She thanks him and refers to the layabout Les. Dennis reckons regular maintenance is needed on houses and marriages - talking to each other is important. Dennis does not reckon that Les realises what he has got and what he could lose. Janice tells him not to worry - Les has got money and beer and will therefore be happy.

Les is settling the bill at the posh hotel he has been staying in. he is refusing to settle the bill in full. He is shouting the odds but is forced to cough up and the manager wishes him a pleasant onward journey. he takes his plastic bags and goes.

At the Rovers Natalie is telling Geena and Toyah that she is off on holiday and that Liz is in charge. Geena raises the possibility of a karaoke night and Natalie says she simply could not care. Alma walks in and upbraids Fred for not treating Audrey properly. He tells her that Audrey's change of mind was unacceptable and the subject is closed. Natalie is sitting with Duggie. He reckons they have gone to Gretna Green. Duggie is moaning about Vinny having collected 400 of rents, Natalie refers to pay in lieu of employment. Natalie never wants to see either of them again.

Over at the remand centre Liz wanders in - full length shot, slit skirt showing a lot of leg. Jim has a black eye and apparently has had a dispute with another inmate who is "sorted" (I think Jim is in the wrong soap so he is). Liz tells him off for getting into trouble. Jim is being very aggressive - but he has to to protect himself. Liz stills believes he is going to get out - after all it will be for her sake as well. Liz finally gets around to telling Jim that it is over with Michael. Liz has finally realised that it is better with Jim - despite the rows but the passion between her and Jim were important. Liz makes it clear she still wants him and that she wants him to want her. He never thought he would hear such things - he never thought he had another chance - he has always wanted her and he always will.

Roy and Hayley are having tea with Sue and Malc. They would both like to adopt - they have tried IVF but it has not worked. As they explain Roy and Hayley are unable to have children by natural means - and they break the silence by offering round the biscuits. They move onto discussing the sort of children they might adopt - Hayley would be happy with any child that social services might find. Sue really wants a little baby - Roy suggest an older child but Malc refers to the possibility of getting the house trashed. Malc and Roy discuss problem children - Roy really wants to give them a new start and feels that the older children deserve a better chance and is passionate about it. Hayley is not so sure.

Les arrives at the Rovers and Toyah serves him. Les did not like the hotel - there is nothing like your own bed. Toyah tells him to go home and patch things up - as Les observes Janice has probably learned her lesson by now and has realised that life without Les is just not worth living (!).

Liz is reminiscing with Dreary about the early years with Jim. They have decided to give it another go. Dreary is surprised but says she is pleased and hugs Liz giving the camera her "I'm very worried about this woman" over Liz's shoulder!

In the Street Audrey finally catches Fred as he rounds the corner. She demands an audience. She makes an impassioned speech - she broke off the engagement because it was his feelings she was considering. Yes she could have gone along with it - she would have had an easier life as his wife - but she could not lie to him. She is above all his friend and she could not marry him under false pretences. He walks past her towards the Rovers but she starts again. "Fred - above all I thought you were a gentleman - but you know you are no better than the rest of them". Audrey turns to walk off but as she does her high heel catches in the cobbles and she twists and falls awkwardly. Fred rushes towards her as she calls him.

Down the road Janice opens the door and enters the house as Les arrives and he says that in the spirit of forgiveness he will take her out for a proper meal and he will buy her a posh frock. As she threw him out as a lying selfish pig and he has not changed so he cannot return. "Too little, too late" she says. She slams the door on him.

Natalie hands the keys over to Liz and she is officially in charge. Audrey and Fred arrive demanding ice and a towel. Audrey and Fred are at least talking again. Out back Duggie carries down Natalie's bags and the lady and bump depart.

Roy apologises to Hayley for any offence. Roy tries to explain that his thinking is based around the way that both of them were not "normal" as children. Roy has been thinking that their own experiences could mean that they could help foster children better than adopting - and they could help so many more. Hayley's flabber is gasted and she sits there unable to say anything.

Janice is sitting and crying about Les and telling Dennis what she thinks. She really does not want Les back - he has gone one step too far this time. She breaks down and cries and Dennis sits with her to comfort her.

Back at the Rovers Fred is admitting he has been a gentleman and Audrey's comments hurt - but he was hurt by her change of mind. He just wants to look after her - and she says he can but they can do it as friends.

Over at the bar Les is laying it on thick with Toyah and she is duped into letting him stay the night - he disappears upstairs with his bags and has a look of triumph as he mounts the stairs. He walked through the bar behind Geena's and Liz's backs. Geena has suggested a karaoke night and Liz says that it is ok providing Geena organises it (so that will be ok then).

Janice is bemoaning her fate - single again at her age, all those years of marriage over. Anyway who would want her (Mike Plowman is this a siren calling?). Dennis has his arm round her and tells her that she is gorgeous. He tells her she is sweet genuine and beautiful. She thanks him for the lie and he denies it is a lie and they kiss. Dennis immediately apologises and asks her to forget it as he rushes upstairs.

Well the Street changes - was that Natalie's final appearance - hiding the bump has not been very successful over the last couple of weeks?

Liz and Jim back together - please pull the other one. And when will Audrey sort out Liz's awful hair?

And will anything shift Les out of a pub? Somehow I doubt it!

K Richard Whitbread


Monday 13 November

Les who is staying with Toyah comes down to the pub and starts to help himself to a drink. Toyah tells him to get out quickly, and then Liz arrives. She thinks that Toyah had a fella stay the night with her.

Des leaves Janice after breakfast, both feeling awkward.

Maxine buys champagne in the corner shop to celebrate opening of the new shop.

Janice and Dennis are sitting on separate tables in the cafe. Eileen seems to think this is strange. Janice says there is no reason why they should be together.

Liz suggests that both she and Steve go to see Jim. Steve says he wants to see his Dad on his own.

In the Rovers Eileen asks Dennis if he is going out with anyone. He says an embarassed no.

Steve sees Jim. They discuss Liz. Jim asks if she is happy. He wonders if she had said anything about the two of them to Steve. Jim tells Steve that they are thinking of getting back together. Steve is not happy with the idea. He thinks she is making a fool of him.

Hayley tells Rita they want to be foster parents or adopt a child. She invites Rita around to the flat to discuss this, as Rita has been a foster mother.

Dennis asks Les what is happening between him and Janice. Les says they will get back together because she cannot resit his animal magnetism.

The sign is going up over Elliot and Son, the butcher shop, next door to Roy's Rolls. [Can somebody help me here. Fred used to have a shop, then he moved into Freshco's - did he ever sell the original shop, or is it being run by someone else, and has he given up Freshco's - does he not have to give notice to terminate a contract?]

Rita explains she couldn't have kids herself. She thought in the end fostering was better for the kids, as the children need parents more.

Toyah asks Les if he has seen Janice. He says Janice doesn't want him. Toyah and Hayley warn him that Dennis is getting very conmfortable at Janice's. He ought to do something about it quickly, because he won't get back in while Dennis is there.

Hayley tells Roy that she will consider fostering after speaking with Rita.

Dennis decides to leave Janice's. He says he can't trust himself any more. They have a passionate kiss. Then Les bangs on the door. Dennis rushes upstairs.

Steve tells Liz that she's messing around with Jim's life. He tells her to leave him alone. She says it is none of his business.

Les demands to see Janice's "fancy man", he says everyone is talking about it in the Rovers. Les says they belong together. He is willing to even sleep on the sofa, if only she will let him back in. Les gets on his knees to stay. Janice tells him to go away while she thinks about it.

Martin Rosen


Wednesday 15 November

Liz catches Les leaving the Rovers. Toyah explains there was no-where else for him to go. Liz won't tell Natalie but he can't stay again. Toyah tries to persuade Les to talk to Janice again but he can see that something has changed.

Meanwhile, Janice and Dennis are having breakfast. They've not slept well. Dennis must think Janice is a tart, throwing herself at him. No, they made a mistake. He says again she's too good for Les. Janice thinks Dennis is a lovely bloke, but...

Fred is in the Kabin, inviting Rita to the grand opening of Elliot and Son today. The mayor will be there. Anthony comes in and invites Rita to dinner at his place tonight.

Linda and Mike arrive late at the factory. She's driving the sports car. Mike remarks it's not like her to sleep through the alarm, and she was up a couple of times in the night.

Dennis and Les are at the bar. Toyah asks Dennis to persuade Janice to take Les back, but he says Les will only do the dirty on her again. Les tells him he's really worried this time. He thinks he's lost Janice. Dennis relents and reveals he still has a chance, but he must show he's serious. Why doesn't he try to find a job?

Everyone is standing outside the shop in the rain. The mayor is late. They talk about the half price vouchers for today. Edna moans about the prices though the others don't agree and she then suggests Eileen cut down on her meat intake. But she's happy as she is and Janice agrees that some men don't like women all skin and bone. Cue Dennis. Max arrives and hears that the mayor is double-booked and won't be coming. She goes to get Audrey who makes a very nice speech and cuts the ribbon as Max takes a photo.

At the prison, Liz tells Jim that she's got him a present but it's gone to be checked. He doesn't give a stuff about his birthday. He wishes she'd gone out with someone else all those days ago. The day she walked out on him with Michael was the worst of his life. Prison is a walk in the park compared to that. Liz tries to explain that she wants to make it up to him but Jim tells her to go and not come back.

Interval

Liz won't go anywhere til they've sorted this out. Jim tells her Steve has helped him put it in perspective. She's only there cos she feels guilty, and he doesn't want her pity. He gets up but she grabs him by the tabard (ouch!) and pulls him back. She loves him. Does he really think she'd put him through that again? Jim doesn know what to think. It will go wrong again and he couldn't bear that. She deserves better.

Janice is in the café, but hasn't touched her meal. Vera sympathises, she can see how Janice is hurting, whatever she may think of Les. Can't they make it up? She doesn't believe that Les will change, but some people are meant to be together.

Rita is at Anthony's looking lovely and looking at family photos in the kitchen (?) Anthony has heard of her fostering and says she's brave. It must have been challenging. Yes, but she still misses the girls. There's a visitor, George Docherty, Isabel's brother. He's not best pleased to see Rita.

Linda is playing music loudly in the car and x asks her to turn it down. She tries to bring Ash and Max into the argument as they walk past. Linda says it's none of their business and leaves in high dudgeon. The couple were on their way home to make babies, but this incident has given Max "a right cob on" and she wants to go to the Rovers instead. Ash looks to the heavens and gives thanks.

Janice is ironing when Les turns up. He'll keep saying he's sorry til she believes it. He's been getting a job interview and will prove he's changed. Janice starts to relent. The job is labouring for the council and is as straight as a die. Janice offers to clean his clothes for the interview.

Anthony is explaining the situation to George. How do you think your children feel watching you cheat on their dying Mother? He then asks Rita if she knew Anthony was married. Rita refuses to be intimidated and answers calmy. They try to explain but George isn't listening. My sister's lying ill while you gad about with this trollop(he clearly hasn't seen many if he thinks Rita looks like one). Anthony tells him to get out and he leaves calling them both a disgrace.

Fred and family are in the Rovers continuing the celebration. He thanks Audrey for steeping into the breach. He was touched by her speech.

Linda arrives and has an orange juice. Geena tries to make conversation and Linda bites her head off.

Rita says that George is only stating the situation as he sees it, and indeed how most people will. His family think Anthony has deserted his wife. But he says the marriage was over and he won't give Rita up. He loves her and wants to spend the rest of his life with her.

Les bounces into the pub and buys Dennis a drink (good Lord!) Janice is there, looking sheepish. They've sorted it out. Eileen and Edna are at the other end of the bar. She's looking forward to the karaoke but can't get anyone else to admit interest.

Geena goes to Linda who apologies. She's in a mess and has to tell someone. She thinks she's pregnant. And no, she doesn't know who the father is.

Kathy Brown


Friday 17 November

Hi I'm Naheed and I will give you updates for those of you who missed Fridays episode of Coronation Street. This is my first update so I hope you like it, and without further ado we'll kick off with tonight's Coronation Street.

We kick off with tonight's Coronation Street with something to get our taste buds up and running with our very own "Coronation Street is sponsored by Cadburys Roses" hmmm.

Les Convinces Janice that we will come home employed tonight but for some reason Janice doesn't seem convinced (I wonder why).

There's a karaoke at the Rovers tonight and free drinks to everyone who gets up and sings. Gina tries her best to get people to sing but nobody seems all that interested unless there is something in it. Eileen is the first up to sing.

Les looks for a job and his first man is Steve Macdonald, the answer from Steve is "no Les". Les doesn't seem to get the message and begs for a job, the answer is still no until Eileen interferes and says "yes we have we've got part time work, two evenings per week" Les gets all excited and Steve said he would think about it.

Interval - I'll just nip into the kitchen and get myself a hot chocolate seems as though these days it is rather cold in Sunny Manchester.

Linda thinks she is pregnant, but the question is who is the father of her child Mark Baldwin or Mike Baldwin. Meanwhile Gina tries to talk some sense into Linda but is not getting anywhere in doing this. Linda says " I've never thought about having a baby and if I don't want it then I will get rid of it" which leaves Gina shocked. Gina advises Linda to go and have a DNA test taken this way she will find out who the father of the child is.

Meanwhile Steve is not too happy about the situation between his mum and dad, infact he is dead against the idea. He thinks that Liz is going to dot he dirty on Jim again (I don't blame him). Steve tries his hardest to keep Liz away from Jim, but Liz is having none of it and says "do you know you are a very nice looking young man but bitter and twisted".

I personally think that Jim should stay well clear of Liz because she has done the dirty on him before, what makes you think she won't do it again. I'd hate to say what Steve would think if he knew his parents were getting married again. (WATCH THIS SPACE).

Les and Janice are celebrating Les's new job NOT one but two, one at the council and the other one at Steve's cab firm. (GOOD LUCK LES).

This is all for Fridays episode I'll be back next week.

Ciao

Naheed


Sunday 19 November

We are now gliding towards the 40th anniversary. All soaps had a rubbishing in the Sunday Times but do we care? No we don't. So over to Weatherfield for the latest news on the Street courtesy of ITV Television and Cadbury's Roses who kindly sponsored the programme.

Written by David Lane and directed by Jim Loach.

In the back of the Rovers Liz is recalling that two years ago to the day she was settling into Milton Keynes with Michael and never expected to see Coronation Street again (and vice versa Liz - how do you think we feel about your return?). Betty asks Jim and she is told that things are going better than for a long time (hardly surprising that - Jim is behind bars and cannot lay a finger on her). Edna (possibly the world's worst cleaner) says she can tell them about prison romances. She wrote to this prisoner in the States for two years. They were getting on well and she was off to see him when the letters just stopped. Turned out he was on death row and forgot to mention it. Geena, Betty and Liz dissolve in laughter as it is suggested that he probably was begging for the electric chair!

The next scene takes place between our heroes, Roy and Hayley. I sadly missed the original viewing of this scene as I was advised by my wife that she is going to leave him (is it true please?). So we will adjourn to the video version for the action. Hayley is reading a parenting magazine and she has been thinking - as has Roy (about bacon) - so back to fostering. Hayley says they have to consider their needs. Roy has a problem but is not sure what he really wants and tells Hayley she should not get her hopes up - he believes that her background will rule them out (and he is unsure of what he wants, she wants a baby of their own but is prepared to compromise). Anyway they have Bethany for the day (why what is Sarah doing - again? - surely she learnt her lesson the first time!).

Dennis has helped Janice with some shopping and they meet Eileen in the Street (is it me or are there more open air scenes on Sundays?). They discuss the karaoke. We then see an exhausted Ashley trying to sneak out of the house but Maxine runs out after him rather modestly attired in a dressing gown (which despite the wind does not permit demonstration of any of her assets). She suggests breakfast in bed but Ash has already had some toast - but she was talking about what he would like for desserts - her. He kisses her and goes to sort out some carcasses. We revert to Eileen and Janice asks what she is doing for the day - nothing quietly . Janice suggests that Dennis might add some entertainment but he disappears like lightning indoors and Eileen is left on her own.

Back at the Rovers a review of the takings on Friday night show that the success of the karaoke had disappeared in the half-price drinks on offer as Liz explains the accounts to Geena. Edna ushers in Mrs Baldwin and Liz tells Geena no more bright ideas until Natalie returns and tells Linda that Mike is to have any money making ideas. Geena has bought Linda a pregnancy testing kit - which Linda will use later.

Fred finds Ash fast asleep in the shop. Ashley tells Fred that Max will not leave him alone. Max is rampant and Ash cannot keep up.

Rita is at Anthony's sipping sherry and waiting for a roast lunch to cook. They discuss Isobel's arrangements - but there is no simple solution. Amanda (Anthony's daughter and the most anti) has been bleating to Uncle George about Rita and George has withdrawn his 50% share of support for Isobel's nursing home fees and Amanda feels that Isobel is being left to rot. Amanda would like to see Rita go but as she cannot stomach the hypocrisy she leaves.

Janice finds Eileen at the Rovers and is invited around for lunch. She asks about the events earlier but Janice tries to re-assure her that Dennis does fancy her and no he is not gay. Perhaps Dennis felt intimidated by Eileen who claims to be a pussycat? Linda arrives at the bar and orders a large whisky from Geena who is told that the test proved negative and that Linda feels 6 stone lighter already (she does not look terribly anorexic to me). I am not sure Geena believes her and I am not convinced that Linda was telling the truth, even though any baby was sure to be Mike's given the timetable.

At the Battersbys Dennis is not joining in the general chit chat. We hear about Eileen's children - Jason 17 and Todd 15. Dennis has always preferred bikes to children and Les breaks into laughter when he hears that Eileen is into a bit of black leather - but solely for riding bikes. Dennis admits he is between bikes at the moment - but not for long. Janice clears the table but Eileen does it with Les. Janice closes the door and asks Dennis what he is playing at? Dennis reckons that Janice is trying to pair him off because she is guilty over letting Les back in. He vanishes and Eileen looks unhappy.

Hayley and Roy are catching a bus. Rosie and Sophie are playing in the Street and ask after Bethany. They naturally fall to discussing what impact parenting has on the type of child - Sophie, Rosie and Sarah seem OK but David seems to be going off the rails and the influence of a Battersby or a Baldwin as a parent may not be beneficial. Roy just wants to put a toe in the water and foster. Hayley agrees but if they are successful she still wants to adopt. Roy kisses her.

Dennis comes downstairs and Janice tries to explain that Eileen does (did actually) fancy him and he is a silly lad. Dennis departs for the Rovers where Eileen is reading the paper. Dennis asks if they can start again - did Janice send him? He denies it and pays Eileen a compliment. They both thought they were being setup but they acknowledge this was not the case and she accepts the offer of a drink. Fred arrives at the bar with some ginseng for Ashley - puts lead in your pencil. Fred tells him to keep it to himself. Max arrives and has a drink before dragging Ashley back off to bed. Linda and Mike are chatting closely. Mike has decided that children might not be such a bad idea - if she wants them then this might be his last chance. She agrees - after all she is not going to let him get married again. Eileen and Dennis are getting along much better, Dennis tells her about the bike and he invites her to join him looking for a new bike. He apologises and she says she hopes it was not the singing - he says no - her voice is up with the greats - "Lemmy from Motorhead". She is not amused!

Over at the jail Jim asks what really happened between Liz and Michael. Well he was a nice man - unlike Jim, but sadly he always made her heart beat just a bit faster - indeed she wants him now. {Appalling continuity in this scene, Liz is nursing a cup of coffee but in the shots from behind her towards Jim we see it standing on the table}. When Liz heard from Steve that Jim was going to marry Gwen she thought it really was all over - she tried to make it work with Michael but she knew that if it did not work out she could always return to Jim - he would always have her back.

Jim thinks it is strange that they got it so wrong - perhaps the lack of time to think. They tried so hard but did not succeed. Jim says the sensible thing to do would be to wait for his case to run its course, then they could catch up if and when he is free and see how things go. But that is too sensible for these two (and this is soapland), so Liz asks Jim to marry her - please say yes.

And so Jim says yes - he cannot think of anything he would rather do.

No time for any more comment tonight (I think I have had my say a little earlier).

Back next week,

K Richard Whitbread


Monday 20 November

David is looking for his football kit. However Gail is more interested that she has got an interview for a job in the health centre.

Jack is studying form for the races. He has a feeling for an accumulator. He tells Pat that they are dead-certs. Pat then tells him the jockey broke his leg yesterday.

Eileen and Dennis chat at the Kabin. She tells she'll see him in Rovers and get the drinks in.

Anthony comes round to Rita to cancel lunch. He has to go and see his accountant to try and sort out his problem.

Pat tells Jack that his first three horses have all won.

Rita tells Fred about Anthony's problems with George. Fred says he will check him out.

Gina talks to Toyah about plans to organise an event in the Rovers.

Liz sees Jim. He wants to confirm that she wasn't joking. She says she wants to marry before the trial.

Sarah sends a text message to the guy she met at the cinema, hoping they will go out together.

Jim warns Liz it may not be a good idea to marry if he gets, say three years. She says she can't wait.

Jack is worried about the next race. He has never had so many winners together before. Pat, Kevin and Jack are in Kev's garage listening to the radio. Vera comes and finds Jack and realising he has been gambling shouts at him for taking the christmas money. The horse comes in second. However they hear there has been a stewards' enquiry which reverses the order and Jack's horse is declared the winner. He has won approximately £5,000. It all depends on one more race and he stands to win £60,000.

Gina says she is going to organise a 'Mr and Mrs' night.

Liz tells Deidre she is going to marry Jim again.

Anthony tells Rita that he can carry on for six months supporting Isobel and then he runs out of money.

Steve and Liz row about her marrying Jim again.

Dennis meets Eileen outside StreetCars. He invites her to come with him to pick up his new bike.

Sarah gets the phone calls she was hoping for. She has got a date for Wednesday.

Pats gets a mate at the dog track to ring him at the Rovers with the result of Jack's last bet. Fred calls for hush in the pub, so that Pat can hear the phone. Pat relays the race from his friend. It wins (of course), and Jack is in a state of shock.

Fi here - we have to go now as we have to write the thank you letters for our wedding presents (about time, too, I'm sure you'll agree).

One thing I must tell you - Martin let his dinner go cold this evening to write your report as we were late in and the Street started before we'd finished eating. That's the sort of guy he is. (Sickening, isn't it?)

Martin Rosen


Wednesday 22 November

Vera still can't believe they've won £60,000 and gets Jack to tell her again over breakfast. What will they do with the money? Holiday, car with personalised number plate, JD1. They won't fritter it away, but be sensible. Hey what about a new kitchen? Nice big fridge to put all your beer in, contributes Tyrone. Jack thinks they should get the cheque in the bank first.

Sarah advises Gail on what to wear for her interview. Gail is worried she's too old. Sarah assures her she will look smart and professional in the black top.

Vera goes to the café. She tells Roy and Hayley she'll be picking the money up at dinnertime. And they'll have a photo in the paper and everything, so she wants to get her hair done and needs the morning off. She tells them they'll be getting a proper financial adviser to help them plan for their old age.

Geena is putting up a poster in the Rovers for the Mr & Mrs Competition. She gets Max and Ash to sign up and they start arguing straight away. Vera is at the bar, and Les drools to think about how much drink he could get with £60,000. Then he advises her to be on the look-out for spongers and scroungers (!) Geena gets Vera to sign up for the competition too and tells her she's got a week to swot up. But Vera's had 40 years. But will there be any questions about what goes on in the bedroom, because they're not very good at Ancient History.

Emily asks after Anthony. Rita explains he's trying to find a new home for Isabel after George withdrew his financial support. Why would George disapprove, she wonders, you're only friends. Aren't you....? Rita explains she wrestled with her conscience. What does Emily think? She thinks it's interesting that Rita kept it quiet. Well, she didn't want people gossiping about her. And why didn't she tell Emily? Because in truth she felt uneasy. Emily tells Rita she must do what she thinks is right.

The photo session is outside the bookies. Tyrone thought the big cheque was real. Jack and Vera kiss over it.

Liz has been to the registry office. They can get a special license and get married straight away. But Jim's seen the Governor and they won't let him out before the hearing. It they want to get married before that, it will have to be in prison.

Interval

Jim is ready to wait but of course Mad Liz wants to go ahead. He thinks she deserves better. But she says all that matters is that they want to do it. Oh, and Steve wasn't very happy about the news and they can't get in touch with Andy.

Candice is helping Sarah get ready for the date. They're going bowling, so she'll wear jeans and a jacket and then Gail won't suspect. She'd just start nagging. And here she is. The interview went well and she'll hear next week.

Max gives Ash a list of her likes and dislikes. There's 3 pages, he wails. I'm a complex woman Ash. But these aren't her real preferences, only what she wants people to think about her. So Ash doesn't know any of this stuff. EG favourite food, Thai mussels.

Dennis and Eileen arrive on the bike, a lovely red and silver Triumph. (Couldn't see anything else I'm afraid). Les is down on it, and goes on about tax and insurance, but the leather-clad couple are wrapped in the lovely engine noise and go for another burn.

Liz tells Deirdre the wedding is booked for next Thursday, in the prison. Deirdre looks horrified. (By the way, how many proposals does that make in the last month? I've got 4).

Fred has been doing some detective work on George. He's got a car dealership in Altrincham and will open another in Chester in the New Year. So cash-flow problems look unlikely. Rita is looking down. She can see Emily doesn't approve and it's revived all her doubts about the relationship. She's committing adultery. Fred assures her that to all intents and purposes. Anthony's wife has passed away.

Sarah's teacher sees her at the bowling and has a chat, fortunately while Glen is getting drinks. She tells her she's glad to see her out enjoying herself and admires her for the way she's coping with Bethany. When Glen comes back, we hear he's at posh Oakhill School, though on a sports scholarship. He tries to find out what Sarah normally does in the evening, but she glosses over that one. They go for a pizza.

Janice probes Eileen over Dennis. But there's not much to report. She doesn't want them going back to her place til her kids know him better. In the meantime, she's chomping at the bit.

The meetings are over for Roy and Hayley. Now it's time for the social workers to come round. Roy has gone back to being pessimistic over the whole thing.

Geena has heard the wedding news. She thinks it's dead romantic, they must really love each other. Steve however, is not impressed. He thinks a wedding in prison is the right way for them to start a life sentence together.

Glen and Sarah are saying goodbye. They agree to meet again (Sarah calling him so Gail won't find out) and kiss. Dennis and Eileen also kiss outside his digs. Eileen is please that at least his bike's a fast worker!

Anthony arrives at Rita's. He's found a couple of homes that could be possible, though they're farther away. She tells him that George's business is booming and then voices her doubts again. Anthony says she's got nothing to feel guilty about. But she can't help it, she's listening to her conscience and it's telling her that what she's doing is wrong.

Kathy Brown


Friday 24 November

Liz queries whether Steve is going to visit Jim in prison. He had asked to see him. Steve says he would.

Vera is in the cafe but busy looking at cruise brochures. Roy says that they are getting busy and hopes that she will do some work.

Janice invites Eileen to her house, while her and Les go out. The idea is to leave Eileen and Dennis alone together.

Emily asks Norris after Rita. Norris says she is not well. A few moments later Anthony asks for her. He goes straight up to see her.

Roy worries that if Vera goes on a cruise trip she could be away for months.

Vera and Jack see their photo of themselves collecting a cheque, in the paper. Vera suggests sending it to "our Tommy". Jack thinks better of it, if the Hortons see it, they will want money.

Anthony sees Rita. She is very distressed and angry that he should visit. She wants to break from him, because their relationship means that his wife can't stay at the nursing home.

Candice is surprised that Sarah didn't give her phone number to the boy she went out with. Sarah feared that if she did, Gail would answer the phone.

Maxine and Ashley practise for the Mr & Mrs quiz. Ashley gets the answers wrong.

Vera and Jack mull over some ideas of what to do with the money. They have had phone calls from several financial advisers.

Jim tells Steve that no matter waht he is Liz are going to marry.

Les looks into the cafe, having seen Jack's win in the newspaper, want to congratulate him.

Jim tells Steve that he will be happier about the marriage if he had his approval. Steve agrees. Jim then asks him to be Best Man.

Ashley and colleague at work practise the Mr & Mrs questions. Blanche overhears part of it, and makes the wrong impression and walks out.

Anthony talks to Emily in the pub. She then realises that he is fond of both Isobel and Rita.

Les spoils Janice's plans by suggesting they all play cards together.

Anthony, at Emily's suggestion, goes round to Rita again. He is pleading that they keep together. Rita says she feels so guilty.

Les thinks he can win against Janice and Eileen at strip poker, but Eileen wins.

Rita tells Anthony that she recently saw a Minister. They discussed her relationship, and said that she should listen to her heart.

Les is down to his vest, when Janice takes him up to bed leaving Eileen and Dennis alone.

Vera and Jack give Tyrone £1000, for being like a son to them.

Blanche tells Gina to put Ken and Deidre's name down for the competition as a surprise for both of them.

Les tells Deidre that they trying to find Andy.

Steve tells Liz that he has agreed to beocme Best Man.

Eileen and Dennis are kissing on the couch. She says it is too late to go home. They both go upstairs tgoether.

Okay from a rainy and windy evening in London, good night!

Martin Rosen


Sunday 26 November

Good evening. Episodes every night this week - so a busy old time. The Street tonight was brought to us by ITV Television and it was sponsored by Miniature Heroes.

Written by David Lane, directed by John Anderson

We open at the Battersbys, Dennis picks up a handbag and hides it behind his back as Janice comes in and Les hands her a cup of tea. Obviously Eileen has stayed the night and Dennis turns down the opportunity of replacing Les on a Christmas shopping trip as he has something else on. The toilet flushes and Janice notes that everyone is already downstairs. Eileen appears down the stairs - she missed her bus, Les reckons Steve McD should have given her a freebie. Janice wonders how they managed in the bed - it is so small. Janice takes Les into the kitchen. Eileen wants to ring the kids and Dennis suggests they go back to bed.

Vera has just had a phone call from a long lost friend and Tyrone immediately identifies it as a scam, although Vera is surprised.

Eventually Dennis and Eileen depart and it appears they make less noise than Les and Janice. Les wants extra rent but Eileen merely offers him help with the Weatherfield knowledge. They wander off down the Street.

Ken, Deirdre and Blanche run into Liz - the blushing bride. Apparently red tape is making life difficult. Dreary and Liz go off into town to buy wedding outfits - although Blanche suggests that they be careful not to buy anything with arrows in case they are mistaken for inmates. Ken and Blanche have to share Sunday lunch.

Over at the Platts, Sarah is on the phone trying to work out her next date for Tuesday evening whilst rocking the baby. Audrey and Gail arrive and we hear about Audrey's poorly ankle. As a result of Audrey's fall on the cobbles the man from highways has agreed to have them removed from the Street (most places had them removed more than 40 years ago - they were an anachronism when the Street started. Gail tells Sarah she has to go and see Martin and Sarah agrees providing she can go with Candice to the magazine club on Tuesday. Audrey warns her about Candice as she is man mad. Plenty of time for lads when she gets older. Sadly it gets no easier when you get older. Gail has not heard about the job yet - she is still waiting to hear from the health centre.

Les is buying a drink - he wants the questions for the Mr and Mrs competition so that he and Janice can enter and win. Toyah reckons he won't like the first prize - a bottle of champagne. Eileen arrives with a bundle of maps and insists that Les buys her a drink. Ash and Max arrive and she asks for her usual and Ashley confirms he knows what she drinks. Geena confirms they will be entering. Les challenges them to a small wager to make it more interesting, Blanche reckons Ken and Dreary will wipe the floor with them. Geena wanders back with a pad of questions but she will not be using them. Toyah warns her not to leave them around as some lying, cheating scumbag might think they were the real questions and she glances over towards Les.

Tyrone is showing Maria a cheque for a £1000 - Vera has given it to him and he is going to put it in the post office towards the wedding. Tyrone is not sure how he is going to repay it. They are both excited.

Ashley is playing the fruit machine. Max is wondering if eating the right foods will alter the sex of any baby. They are arguing about who really eats what - Max is refusing to admit publicly her attachment to egg and chips.

Les and Eileen are discussing routes and Les as ever is on the make - not taking direct routes! Eileen wants another drink and Les goes to the bar. He sees the questions and starts reading them. Both Toyah and Geena spot his duplicity and immediately tell him not to bother as they are not the real questions!

Anthony arrives at the Post Office. Rita is welcoming and she hears that he is having a hard time with Isabel and the need for her to be moved. Anthony is now forced to sell his house as the only way of keeping Isabel in the home with her brother's help.

At the Rovers Janice is told by Toyah that she will be taking part in the Mr and Mrs competition. Blanche is toting Ken and Deirdre but Ken demurs as they are not married. Blanche alleges that Dreary put their name on the list (but Geena's reaction implies that this is total nonsense). Dennis is drinking lime and lemonade. Janice wants to be taken to her favourite place but Les does not know where to go. Les earns himself no brownie points.

Anthony has done the sums - he will sell the Jaguar now and the house as soon as possible to fund the stay at the Rose Gardens. Amanda the daughter has said that Anthony can stay with her. It would appear that nothing will split up Rita and Anthony at the moment.

Dreary is working in the corner shop when Liz returns from her extended shopping trip. It turns out Liz bought the first dress they saw earlier in the day! Elsewhere in the shop Sarah is briefing Candice on the cover story for Tuesday. It appears Sarah and her boyfriend were on the phone for an hour - it was smashing (do they still say that). Out the back Liz and Dreary are discussing the wedding. Liz is starting to have second thoughts but Dreary says she must look at it positively.

Dennis and Eileen return and Dennis says that his mates were well impressed with bike and bird. Dennis takes the opportunity to say thank you to Janice for helping sort out his life, two months from a homeless, lonely, out of work status to his current position. They embrace after Janice says that not everyone should have a life as bad as hers!

Fred is walking Audrey along the Street and they bump into Ken who asks after her recovery. Audrey tells Ken that such an accident will never happen again in the Street, without clarifying why.

There is a woman standing outside the salon and Janice asks if she can help her. The visitor reckons the Street has not changed and she asks if the Duckworths still live in the clad house. Janice says who else?

Tyrone is mixing drinks for Maria when the stranger knocks at the door. Tyrone tells her that the Duckworths moved on years ago.

Over at the Rovers a weatherbeaten Andy McDonald orders a pint from Geena and surveys the pub. In a booth Janice is testing Les on the possible answers to the questions. Les cannot even remember the colour of Janice's eyes. Janice refuses to take part - it is bingo night on Monday night. At the bar Audrey is telling Fred that the cobbles are to be tarmacced over. Ken has wandered in and overheard the conversation and expresses his disbelief. Ken says he is not going to stand for that.

Andy is about to ask Geena about the location of his mother when Liz wanders into the bar and hears his voice and they embrace. "Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world eh", he says and we go into the closing titles.

Andy's acting abilities do not seem to have grown greatly during his absence!

Dennis and Eileen are getting along well, although I wonder if the children will be so keen once they appear?

And who is the mystery woman who knows the Duckworths? Sadly my memory does not work that well and I do not recognise but I am sure we will learn more shortly.

And just who will win the Mr & Mrs competition?

See you all again next week,

K Richard Whitbread


Monday 27 November

One down, and a whole week to go ..!

Vera tells Jack that they won't win Mr & Mrs if she dosen't know how he likes tea. Tyrone tells them that a woman called for them, but he sent her away.

Phone rings at the Platts. Sarah rushes downstairs, but it is for Gail. She got the job at the health centre.

Blanche tells Deidre that Ken put her name down for the Mr & Mrs quiz. She seems surprised as Ken doesn't usually like game shows.

Dev returns from a trade show and brings Deidre a box of chocolates.

Andy and Steve catch up on news. He is now a freelance journalist for 'What's on' magazines.

Ken gets Roy to help with the protest at the removing of cobblestones on Coronation St.

Steve explains to Andy why their father is in jail.

The solicitor introduces Jim to the barrister who is going to represent him in court.

Andy didn't think that his Dad could kill anybody. Steve tries to calm Andy to keep a peaceful family.

The Barrister tells Jim that he should have mentioned that he was getting married earlier. It may make the judge a little more leinent.

Ashley and Maxine try to guess what each other going to have at the cafe.

Andy feels like packing his bags and thinking of going home again.

Liz's colleagues have covered her shifts at the pub so that she can talk to Andy. She can't beleive he is back.

Ken has been looking into the minutes of the Council meeting. It seems that the ruling was extended to include Coronation St only recently. Audrey Roberts was on the committee.

Deidre and Ken confront Blanche aboout who put their names down for the contest. They retaliate by going out to dinner.

Rita and Fred discuss George's spitefulness. However Rita can see his piont of view, but she says they have gone too far down the line for the relationship to end.

Mr & Mrs quiz starts. Ashley and Maxine are first. Ashley answers the questions while Maxine listens to music through headphones. The questions are very personal, eg does she snore, have smelly feet or pick her nose.

The woman who called at the Duckworths returns. It is Andrea Clayton who bumps into Emily. She tells her they are in the pub.

The questions that Ashley answered are now put to Maxine. They get none right.

Andrea finds the Duckworths. She wants to talk to them privately.

Maxine starts arguing with Ashley over his answers. As there are no other contestants around, Roy and Hayley are volunteered.

Andrea talks about her son, by Terry, (who Vera thought had been adopted - but wasn't).

Les tries to declaire the contest void as Roy and Hayley are Mr and Mr.

It was Jack that told Vera that it was adopted because Terry didn't want Vera to have anything to do with it. However she now needs to find Terry because the baby now needs a kidney replacement, and nobody in her family are suitable as a donor.

Food report: I had to keep my dinner in the oven this evening otherwise I could not write and it would have got cold!

Martin Rosen


Tuesday 28 November

Here is the first "extra" programme. Later tonight in the UK we have the 40 year nostalgia programme. 90mins. I hope that it is eventually transmitted to Canada, NZ etc. (can't see ITV turning down a few extra bucks!!).

Vera is on the phone trying to contact "our Terry" to no avail.

Liz reminices the good old days with Andy. She says she has changed a lot. Andy warns that the days with Jim were often very scary. Liz claims it is a new start.

Roy and Hayley are on tenderhooks about the social worker coming to visit. Roy drops crockery and cuts his finger.

Ken tries to persuade Audrey to stop the plan to remove the cobblestones from the Street. Audrey reluctantly agrees.

Hayley tells Alma she is worried about what happened in the Rovers last night. Alma tells her she has every right to be happy.

Vera tells Curly about Andrea and the problem. Curly invites her in for a cup of tea.

Dev is chatting to Gina in the pub.

Natalie calls a staff meeting.

Alma asks Gail about her new job. Alma thinks she should be proud of herself about the job. Molly from the health centre calls round to see Gail. Molly invites Gail for a grand tour around the centre. Alma wants to know what the new doctor is like. Molly says he is a bit of "all right".

Natalie tells Liz that the books are ok, the takings are up. Liz tells Natalie that she is getting married on Thursday. Then she announces to Liz she is having a baby. Liz wants to know how long Natalie has known. She says a few weeks, due in February. She confirms it is Vinnie's, but she is not contacting him. She asks Liz not to tell anyone else.

David and Sarah have an argument and start fighting. Then their teacher turns up, who says she is moving in next door with her husband

Liz tells Jim about Natalie. He says he is hardly in a position to tell anyone. Andy comes in to see him and have an emotional hug.

Gail and Candice tell Gail about the their teacher moving in next door. Gail says she is going to the health centre tonight so Sarah will have to look after Bethaney.

The social worker chats to Roy and Hayley about the suitability. They are concerened, but he tries to calm them.

Andy chats to Toyah and impresses her with his knowledge of Spanish. He invites her out for a drink.

Curley tells Emma about Vera's problem. She is going to try and help.

Hayley tells the social worker about her gender re-alignment. She says she is the happiest she has ever been. Then he asks her what she would tell their child.

Ken is disappointed that there is not a lot of support for his campaign to keep the cobblestones. Deidre tells him that it is just a lump of old stones.

The teacher, Charlie, comes to the pub with her husband. He is the new doctor.

Sarah puts off the boyfriend from going out because she is having to babysit. She doesn't mention the baby, not even when she starts crying. She thinks it will turn him off.

Natalie tells the staff about her pregnancy.

Hayley is worried about what will happen when children find out about its mother. They get bullied for the slightest imperfection.

Tyrone offers to help donate for the kidney donor. Emma calls round with the last known address for Terry.

Martin Rosen


Wednesday 29 November

Jack and Tyrone leave to search for Terry. Vera is worried that he'll turn his heart against Jack, due to the way they last parted, but Jack says if he can deny his dying son help, then he doesn't have a heart. Vera is to go to the hospital to see her grandson for the first time.

Liz is in the shop, chatting to Deirdre about the wedding. Blanche thinks she mad. It's like buying a car without an engine, meaning not having a proper wedding night. Liz assures her she'll cope.

Hayley is reflecting on what the social worker said, and wonders if it's fair to subject a child to the taunts she had to suffer. Maybe they shouldn't take one after all.

Audrey makes a speech to open the Health Centre and gets in a gibe about the name, which most people don't understand. Blanche quizzes the new doctor (Mat Harman) about his credentials. He assures her they didn't come by post from Shanghai. He confirms to Emily that he will be offering complementary therapies like homeopathy and acupuncture.

Despite having said she wants to keep it quiet, Natalie spends this evening announcing her pregnancy to everyone who comes in the pub. First is Steve. He's drinking with Andy, who comments that there won't be so many rows in the MacDonald marriage now there's 20 foot of wall between them. He checks Toyah is still on for tonight, much to Steve's amazement.

Bobbi thinks that Dev already has a girlfriend and that's why he hasn't asked Gina out yet. Maybe Deirdre knows? She declines. They then speculate that she fancies him herself and that's why she won't tell. Natalie hears them and says that Dev is bad news.

Paul is pale, exhausted and asleep in the hospital bed. Andrea and Mrs. Clayton are also there. The doctor says he's getting worse every day. Meanwhile, Jack and Tyrone are waiting outside Terry's for his return. Tyrone says if it was a cop show, they'd have coffee and cheeseburgers. Terry finally arrives and grudgingly lets Jack in, but Robin has to wait in the Batmobile.

Interval

Terry is defensive, what has he done this time? No, it's what he could do, save his son's life. But Terry has never seen his son, and isn't interested in helping.

Roy thinks he has the answer for Hayley. If they move, no-one will know about her past. They'll just be a couple like any other. Hayley doesn't want to leave the good friends they have here. Then Toyah arrives. She wants to apologise for Les's behaviour, and assures them that he's the only one who feels that way. Everyone else accepts and likes them.

Jack is vehemently trying to make Terry come back with him. But he reminds him of Jack's words the last time they met. Why should he help him out now? Not me, your son. Jack would do it for him (even though he told him he should have been drowned at birth). That's as may be, but Terry won't. You've got one chance to do something good in your life and you throw it away. Jack leaves in disgust and despair.

The hen party arrive and are ushered into the back room by Nat.

Toyah goes for her date with Andy, looking lovely.

Dev arrives, all fired up for a date with Gina, but she turns him down.

The champagne is flowing. Nat voices what they're all thinking: will they get any time together after the ceremony? Liz confirms this won't happen. They speculate on Mike and Linda's marriage. Alma thinks they're made for each other. Audrey says that when men get to a certain age, their minds go back to being teenagers. Yes, Nat tells them about Dev chasing Gina. He wouldn't have to chase very hard to catch Alma. They tease Deirdre. But Liz says she's happy with Ken. When a woman finds the right man, she's very happy. And she's going to be very happy with Jim. Then they toast Natalie, after checking that the baby is Vinnie's and she won't be telling him. She sees it as a new beginning after all the sorrow in her life. They think she's very brave.

Hayley has been encouraged by Toyah's remarks. Roy states that the most important thing is for them to give a child a better start in life and she agrees. So it's all back on.

Jack and Tyrone are back at the house, wondering how to break the news to Vera. In the end, they decide on the story that he's moved on, but no-one knows where. Vera tells Jack how fragile Paul looked. She'll do anything to make him better and has had the blood tests. She'll know tomorrow if she's a suitable donor. Jack is horrified and warns her that this is a very dangerous operation, especially for people their age. But Vera doesn't care about the consequences to her.

Kathy Brown


Thursday 30 November

Andy kisses Toyah goodbye, only to be confronted by Natalie who had got up early because of morning sickness. However she is not angry.

The doctor tells Vera that she is a match for the baby. Jack doesn't want her to have the operation. The doctor offers a counsellor, but Vera is determined. Jack pleads with her not to go through with it.

Steve is surprised that Liz is cooking breakfast on her wedding day.

Dev chats up Gina about going out for dinner. When she says she will think about it he is very surprised.

Sarah has plans for going out with her boyfriend. Hayley will babysit Bethaney and her mum won't be back till late.

Sarah offers congratulations to Natalie, and her baby clothes.

Gina goes into the corner shop. Dev is not there but passes on a message through Deidre that she is free for the evening.

The McDonalds are all dressed up for the wedding. They don't have any champagne, but they have cans of lager. Andy suggests it isn't too late to back out. Steve says if she did that it would kill him.

Dev returns to the shop, and Deidre dosen't pass on Gina's message.

Jack and Tyrone visit Terry again. He is pleased that Vera is offering to give one of her kidneys. Tyrone says he wouldn't think twice about donating one of his kidneys if he could. Jack offers Terry money to change his mind.

At the prison, the guests and the McDonalds are all wating for Jim.

Jack offers Terry £20,000 if he has a match. When Jack explains the money is coming from the win on the horses. Terry gets greedy and asks for more. He wants £25,000. They shake hands on the deal.

Jim arrives and the Governor organises the ceremony.

Vera goes to the hospital to see her grandson, Paul. He realises his mum and Grandmum are looking for a kidney. Then Tyrone comes in and tells Vera that he has a surprise for her.

The wedding ceremony takes place. (This reminds me of my fateful day!!) They sign the register and the warder immediately wants to take Jim back to his cell. Liz is in tears.

Vera is overjoyed when she sees Terry. He lets Vera think it was his idea to get tested.

Sarah rushes round saying to Hayley that her mum will be back about 11pm, but she will be back before then. The boyfriend turns up unexpectidely at the front door, Hayley invites him in, and Sarah pretends that the baby is Hayley's.

Jim sees Liz in the visitor's room. They are both going to think of their honeymoon night the last time.

Ken, Deidre and Natalie discuss the fact that Jim faces the trial tomorrow.

Dev comes in and Gina accuses him of being late. Dev seems surprised, and then Deidre says she forgot to pass on the message, because she was so caught up with the wedding. First he teases Gina and then they go out.

Liz and Steve and Andy come in to the Rovers and Natalie offers the drinks on the house as it is her wedding.

Terry meets Andrea Clayton and tells her that he is going to be a donor. The doctor comes in and confirms that it is a match. Jack and Tyrone and are seething.

Martin Rosen



Updates written by Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen, Kathy Brown and Naheed Azhar


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