Karen and Steve are staring and kissing each other over the breakfast table. Vik thinks they are just pretending for the bet, but they say they are not. They are deciding where they are going to live. They think Steve's place is better.

Ashley is worried about the second test for his sperm. Maxine is quite positive everything will be alright.

Janice asks Karen whether the earth moved for her. She says several times!

Curly opens a letter from Raquel. She has sent him a photo of Alice. He is brooding. He tells Emma she is looking rough and she ought to see Matt. Emma says she will be ok.

Ken collars Curly and asks him to fulfill his election pledge. He doesn't want to move the wheelie bins (dustbins) to the end of the road. He thinks they should be collected from their houses. The bin men refuse to collect Curly's bin - they call it justice.

Matt tells Ashley and Maxine that he will have to have a second test. It doesn't mean they can't have children but it may take time. He tells them if necessary he will have further tests. It maybe a testicular biopsy. [eyes watering! - MR]

Ashley and Maxine talk afterwards, and he says although he wants a baby he doesn't want one enough to have his bits fiddled with. Maxine says he is giving up. She says he'd rather not have kids than have a simple op. He doesn't consider it so simple.

Ken suggests to Peter that he may like to get a job at Freshcos. Peter doesn't fancy it. Ken thinks he ought to look for a career, maybe as a teacher as he gets on well with kids.

Curly joins Matt in the pub. Matt asks if he has heard any more about the smear test campaign. Curly says he has written to the authorities but not heard anything back yet.

Karen tells Eileen that now she is married, they are looking for a place of their own, so she shouldn't get too comfortable.

Jason is with his brother and friends in the cafe. Sally wanted him to do stock taking and tells him to get back to the shop.

Maxine and Emma talk about children. Emma says that not everybody is ready for kids immediately.

Eileen tells Janice that she is on a six month lease which expires in July. She is annoyed that she heard of the plans through Karen.

Eileen confronts Steve in the Rovers. He says that he has no intentions of moving back into the old house. Eileen says next time she will talk to the organ grinder and not the monkey. Karen says if they stay where they are, what will happen to Vik. Steve says he won't want to stay with a married couple and will move out.

Ashley is in tears at home. Maxine says she didn't marry just for babies.

Peter tells Shelley that Ken says he ought to become a teacher. She thinks it maybe a good idea. Shelley then tells Peter she mentioned to Duggie that he liked to help himself to a drink occassionally.

Steve hints to Vik that they will be parted soon. Vik takes it that they will be moving out. When Steve says he isn't moving out Vik says he won't go.

Curly tells Emma that he thinks she is covering something up. He wonders if she is ill, and then tells him she is pregnant. He thinks it is fantastic and they cuddle up together.

Martin Rosen

At the Watts house Curly gives a kiss to Emma "the mum to be" She tells him she did a home pregnancy test a couple of days ago but needs confirmation from the Dr. Curly is really excited and thinks they should tell the parents first. He says how he missed out on Alice and won't let that happen again. Emma is more reticent, she wants time to adjust to the idea and sighs loudly whilst Curly witters on. They go out. They get free drinks at Roy's Café on account of Curly's election to local council. Fred stands up for Audrey and says she's run herself ragged in the course of her tenure. "yes, going on all those overseas visits" sniggers someone in the background. By now Curly and Emma are at the Health Centre being congratulated by Dr Mat who confirms that Emma is 6 wks preggie. Emma says she is well but tired and she'll be fine. She knows to avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Her next appointment is at 12 weeks. Curly still wants to spread the news but she is reluctant and backed up by Dr Mat who says often couple's keep the news to themselves until the 1s trimester is behind them. The expectant couple go to the pub. Curly can't wait to tell Ash. Needless to say Max is in a strop. Emma is hurt, she thought they were keeping it a secret. Mat comes in and realises its ok to congratulate the Watts. Emma says to Charlie that she'd always thought they'd wait a few years, she's not ready for motherhood but it's obvious she doesn't know how to tell Norman.

Meanwhile back at the Peacocks barren home. Ashley continues to say that he's not having his "meat and two veg" mucked around with, Maxine is wasting her breath if that's what she thinks. The theme evolves that if he won't have his lack of fertility looked into then he will lose her. They go to the Rovers to discover champagne is being handed round to congratulate Emma and Curly on their forthcoming baby. Ash even more dejected. Back at home there are tears. He says that things will just happen but Max wants to know "when will it be our turn?" Ash becomes more convinced that she'll leave him if they don't have a baby. Max says she doesn't want to lose him and she's not going anywhere but that he'll make a great dad. Ultimately Ash agrees he will continue to have more tests. Later back in the Rovers he's talking to Fred who opines that doctors don't know everything. Ash is unconvinced he says what's the point of the tests he knows the outcome already. Fred councils that that path to true happiness in marriage is to make sacrifices and not to lose each other.

Jason, egged on by his mate, is still in theory trying to get it together with Sally. She suggests they close the shop for lunch and get on with sorting the boxes in the stock room. They make a start and then Jason remembers he's got to go on an errand for his Mum. Sally says fine but hurry back. Eventually she locates him in the café with his friends and says if he doesn't get back to work pronto then he's not going to have a job. She's done all the tidying up and want a break.

Steve and Karen are lounging at the bar in the Rovers. Steve has intimated that its Vik who will move out leaving the flat for the happy couple. Vik has other ideas. However in the interim he is more than happy to cohabit with Bobbie. Karen bangs on about a honey moon to which Steve retorts "Every day's a honeymoon with you!" She fancies Miami he wants to know what's wrong with Blackpool?!

Peter bumps into Charlie at the Rovers. Says he might be following in her footsteps careerwise. Charlie says she enjoys her job and he's just what they need. Ken continues to promote the benefits of Freshco for trainee managers, cashier one day, manager the next. Peter is more interested in working at the bookies.

This episode did little to move forward although obviously promoting the contrast between Emma being reluctantly pregnant and Maxine more or less blaming the hapless Ashley for the fact that she is not mirrors life.

Let's hope Richard had a fab holiday and is raring to go with the Sunday reporting.

Amanda Soppit

Jason asks Dennis for £2 because he lost his job. Eileen stops him for lending the money. Jason says she tried it on, and he had to stop her.

Maxine calls to Audrey if she is going into work. Audrey says she has an awful cold, and walks off.

It is Bethaney's first birthday. Gail is more happy about it than Sarah. Sarah opens a card for her and there is a £100 cheque enclosed.

Jason tells his brother and friends about how he lost his job. Candice tells him he can claim sexual harrasment.

Audrey comes home to Alma and gives her some pills. Alma says she is coming to Bethaney's party, as she will not see her next one.

Eileen goes round to see Sally. Sally thinks she is talking about Jason making a pass, but Eileen is thinking that it was Sally who made the pass. Sally says the job is still open for him. Eileen says he will be back with an apology.

Maxine sees Audrey in the pub. She is surprised that she is there with a cold. Maxine wants to know what is going on.

Kevin sees Molly in the pub and asks for his money. She says she hasn't had time to go the pub. Kevin says he wants the money by the end of the week.

Maxine "guesses" the problem is with Gail, and that she is depressed. Audrey offers Maxine a pay rise.

Eileen confronts Jason and says there is no reason why he can't go and get his job back. Jason says he doesn't want his job. Jason is about to take money from his mother's purse. Dennis sees him and tells him to put the money back. He refuses and Dennis hits him and he has a bleeding nose. Jason threatens to "get him" for that.

Molly comes round to Alma. Alma says she can't put her makeup on. Molly offers to help, but she says what does it matter because she will be dead in a couple of months.

Candice says to Sarah that she wonders how someone of (Sally's) age can think they are attractive. Sally tells Gail she is flattered an 18 year old likes her.

When Alma arrives at the party, Sally mentions she has not seen her round for a while. Alma says she is glad to be out of the house are not beeing too well.

Roy and Hayley bring round their present - something that will last - a 10 volume set of children's encyclopaedia. Kevin comes in briefly, and gives a present and leaves. Gail mentions that his kid would have been one tomorrow.

Eileen comes in and sees Jason with his nose bleed. Jason says that Dennis did it when he thought he was stealing, when in fact he was putting it somewhere safe.

Roy reads to Bethanie from the encyclopaeida. She is not that interested.

Maxine sees Gail with a video camera and says how good it is she has found a hobby. Audrey feels awkward.

Alma invites Roy and Hayley and Ken and Deidre over to her place for a dinner party the next day. Audrey is concerned.

Sarah and Hayley have a heart to heart conversation.

Eileen asks Dennis when he comes in why he hit her son. He says he didn't mean it, he just knocked into him when he prevented him taking the money. Eileen says it is the second time that he has lied to her. Jason said he is fed up with the hole thing and is leaving home.

Martin Rosen

Gail tries to cheer Sarah up by suggesting they have a slushy video tonight. They bump into Kevin. He's depressed as today is the anniversary of Alison and Jake's death. Rita sees him too. She's putting a sign outside the Kabin: Local man collects bravery award. (I can't think what this refers to, unless it's Peter). She goes to comfort Kevin. He's on his way to the cemetery with a bunch of flowers.

Eileen and Dennis discuss Jason leaving home. She wants to find out how he is without him knowing she's concerned. She apologises to Dennis if it appeared she didn't believe him. He's quite relaxed about it, it's only natural that she'd think of her son first. But he's worried that he's coming between her and the kids. On cue, Todd storms in and wonders when he'll be thrown out. He accuses Eileen of only caring about Dennis.

Sally goes into the Kabin and Rita talks to her about Kevin. She knows he acted badly, but remember what he's been through. Can she find it in her heart to try and help him? Todd and Kirk are also there. Jason is staying at Kirk's and needs some clean clothes. Todd thinks what happened is their fault.

Kevin is now in the shop where he bumps into Molly and demands his money again. Audrey and Alma are buying stuff for the dinner party. Audrey thinks it's a bad idea and too much work. Is she planning to tell them tonight? No, it's a dinner party, not the Last Supper.

Max goes round to Emma's to offer her congratulations. She's a bit shocked to hear that the baby wasn't planned and tells Emma she'd give anything to be pregnant. She starts to get a bit tearful. Emma says this has helped her make a decision about the Armed Response Unit. She'd always wanted to be in it, but wasn't so sure after the siege. She certainly doesn't want to stay in now she has a baby.

Eileen takes Jason's clothes into the café, where he was expecting Todd. Won't he come home? They both know he was taking money from her purse, he can't blame Dennis for that. No, he won't return while Dennis is there. Sally enters and sits with Kevin. She tells him she's worried about him, today must have been hard. At last we hear what he's feeling. He dreams about them all the time. She says that's good, it means a piece of them is still alive inside. But he has to carry on. Kevin says he hasn't got a life, he just goes from day to day like a ghost walking through walls. All he does is mess up other people's lives. She must have wanted him dead for what he did. Sally tries to give him some purpose. What about Rosie and Sophie? Promise me you won't do anything silly.

Maxine has been crying. Emma says that pregnancy is a lottery but they'll get there. Max tells her about Ash's tests. She's been putting him under so much pressure and preparing for pregnancy for so long. Emma asks to hear all about it as she hasn't a clue.

Alma meets Curly in the Rovers and asks to borrow his video camera. Audrey joins them and Alma has a go at her when Curly leaves. You're hovering over me like the Grim Reaper. All she's trying to do is have a normal evening. Dennis joins Kevin at the bar and tells him they've had a lot of big bills in today. He needs to start chasing his non-paying customers.

Interval

Kevin goes to the Health Centre but it's closed. Anyway, Molly went home sick at lunchtime. But he gets her address out of Gail by pretending he wants to fit a car part round at her place. Todd and Kirk are at the chippy. They think they should talk to Sally.

Sarah talks to Bethany about all her presents, one of which is an excellent stuffed toy, a large green bee. She tells her about the card from her dad, just as Gail enters. Sarah tells her about the cheque and is worried this means the father's family want to get involved with Bethany. Gail assures her it's just a gesture and doesn't mean they want to take Bethany away.

Kirk and Todd finally talk to Sally. They tell her Jason leaving is their fault, they were winding him up about her. Well, maybe she doesn't like being the butt of their jokes, and maybe she doesn't want Jason back. Todd tells her Jason's left home. Getting his job back may help. Well, she's already offered it to him but he's not interested. If he's embarrassed, he should grow up.

The dinner guests arrive and learn that Audrey won't be there tonight. They've all been looking forward to it, they don't get invited out much. Let's hope this is the first of many.

Emma tells Curly about Maxine's visit. She didn't realise how desperate she was. Curly tells her about Kevin losing his wife and child a year ago today. Emma confesses she wasn't too sure about the baby at first, but now she sees it as a gift and feels really blessed.

Kevin arrives at Molly's flat, a high rise. She finally opens the door, looking dreadful.

Alma makes a toast. She thanks them for coming and for being such good friends. Roy remembers that he met Hayley at Alma's last dinner party. Ken makes a toast to friendship and a long and happy retirement for Alma.

Molly hides something on the table. Kevin looks round the bare flat, then finds an empty bottle of pills. Has she taken these? Then he finds them hidden under some papers on the table.

The party is over. They thank Alma and leave. Ken wonders if everything is OK, she seems a little off colour. Alma tells him she hasn't been sleeping. He and Deirdre seem happy? Yes, the world's good. Alma's glad of her memories of Ken and is glad he's happy with Deirdre.

Kevin wonders what's bad enough for Molly to kill herself. Money? He tells her about Jake and Alison. Now that's a real reason. But it's not just a few measly quid. Molly owes thousands and can't pay it.

Karen Brown

Audrey bumps into Ken in the street. She asks if he enjoyed the evening with Alma. He thought Alma didn't look too well. He thought she was just tired.

Audrey then bumps into Gail. They sympathise with Sarah who cannot get out to enjoy herself. She says Alma is not in pain. However she offers to treat Gail and Sarah to a holiday.

Karen tells Steve she is going out with the girls.

Molly wakes up. Kevin asks how she is feeling. She says awful. Kevin thinks she needs to see a councillor or someone similar to discuss her problems. He says he won't tell anybody about her problems.

Vera comes into the cafe and wishes Emma well. She tells Emma she will get used to it. Emma asks if childbirth is as bad as people say. Vera says if she had her time again, she would want hitting on the head with a brick first!

Jason meets Sally in the cafe. They apologise to each other. They agree to forget the whole incident. He agrees to come back.

Harvey comes Baldwin's factory. He remembers Karen. Harvey says his father is stepping down and they will be dealing with him in future. He explains everything is strictly business.

Gail tells Kevin that she is very busy. Molly has phoned in sick.

Maxine tells Ashley as they don't have a baby they ought to get out a bit more. He is still very depressed. He tells Maxine that he is going for a drink with Boris after work.

Curly explains to Alma how to use the video camera. He asks why she wants it. She says it is just a sort of video diary, just for friends. Alma says it would be nice if she was around when Curly's baby arrives.

Gail tells Sarah about the holiday. Sarah perks up. She is very excited. They are going to London and stay in a posh hotel.

Kevin goes round to Molly's. Despite banging on the door he gets no reply. He bangs the door in, and then Molly comes to the door from the street. Kevin says that because she didn't answer the phone when she rang in sick, he was worried.

Emma and Maxine chat. Maxine explains that Ashley is very depressed. Emma says she make a fuss of him but shouldn't go over the top.

Eileen goes to the shop to see Jason. He says he is still not coming home. He is not living under the same roof as Dennis.

Ken asks Audrey in the Rovers if something going on with Alma. He thinks everytime he mentions Alma's name she gets off the subject. As soon as Audrey says they are best of friends, Alma walks in. She doesn't want to be treated like a child or gereatric. Audrey insists she ought to take it easy.

Linda tells Mike that Harvey fancies himself. She says he needs taking down a peg or two. Mike tells Linda that Alma is looking rough. She says it is lucky Mike traded her in for a younger model.

Kevin tells Molly that normally she is so happy and easy going. She is the last person he thinks would want to kill herself. She says she is up to her eyeballs in debt. Kevin says he remembers when he lost his baby and Alison, he knows what she is going through.

Karen suggests to Steve they have a joint bank account. Steve is a bit wary. He thinks they would be bankrupt next week if they did. Steve thinks they ought to invite guests over so they can entertain like a married couple.

Ashley comes home and Maxine has set the table for dinner as a surprise. He is annoyed that she has discussed their personal problems with Emma. For the last twelve months all he has heard is babies, babies and babies.

Kevin tells Molly, over a bottle of vodka, that she doesn't have to pay for the car. They are on the couch getting drunk. Kevin falls asleep.

Martin Rosen

After my little visit to Corfu I am back to provide an update on events - thank you Amanda for covering last week.

It is a busy week in the Street this week. An hour long episode this evening and five more episodes this week as events move fairly furiously. Given the length of the episode the update this week by storyline as there is little interplay between the various stories.

Written by David Lane and Julie Gearey Directed by David Kester and Tony Prescott

We open at Molly the nurse's flat. Kevin and Molly have spent the night together on the sofa - second night in a row - but again nothing happened. Kevin and Molly were both fairly drunk although no doubt the neighbours will comment on Kevin's truck being outside two nights in a row! Anyway both are relaxed about it and Kevin turns down coffee in favour of getting to work. Once at work Kevin is observed by Rita who notes that he is looking in a very poor state and that she is worried about him. Later Molly turns up at the garage and tells Kevin she has listened to his advice - she has an appointment at the Citizens Advice Bureau to sort out her debt problem and gives him a present - a photo frame for the gurls' picture. (This woman has a shopping problem). Molly is looking far more cheerful. She also kisses him on the cheek observed by Dennis who rags Kev about it later in the Rovers - Kevin says they are just friends - and yes she was paying for the work they had done to her car.

Ash is getting some breakfast but he is annoyed with Maxine for telling Emma about their problems. Max wants to talk but Ashley does not. Max suggests they should have a holiday, briefly forgetting Ash's antipathy to flying. He goes to work but is later in the Rovers at lunchtime and Curly joins him in a booth. Curly is unaware of the reason that Ash and Max will soon have a baby - indeed look how long Gary and Judy Mallett took so Ashley has to tell him that he is "firing blanks". Curly realises that Ashley needs a friend and they talk and later consume some chips. Ashley tells Curly that he loves Max and vice versa - and he is not completely sterile. Curly points out there are lots of things which can be done and he should be telling Max not him - when he has finished his chips. Later Ashley returns home and tells Max that they need to sort it out. Ashley apologises - he was wrong and he is sorry. In the meantime he has been to the travel agent and agrees to a holiday providing the flight is not too long - and he has some knock out drops. (Altogether now aaaaaaaahhhh!).

In the cafe Vik is complaining about Karen to Steve - she used Vik's razor on her legs and it was blunt when he used it. And the washing has vanished - Karen has bought a washing basket. Karen and Steve are entertaining Vik and Bobbi to dinner and Karen gets a wad of notes out of Steve to pay for the food - as part of the housekeeping - after all they have not got a joint account. In the evening Vik is buying Bobbi and Steve a drink - and asks where Karen is. It appears she is still getting ready and then walks into the Rovers wearing a stunning new dress (well the dress is - the contents are so so) and Bobbi asks after the cooking. Karen reveals that she has taken a leaf out of Linda's book and arranged caterers. Steve is stunned and she grabs his pint and starts drinking it! Once we return to the flat (which appears to have had a makeover) Karen finally reveals that the "caterers" are in fact the local pizza delivery agents! Bobbi reacts to badly to the suggestion of pizza but smiles brightly when Karen looks at her. Karen also gets Vik to play lager roulette and he gets covered in alcohol. Karen nearly dies laughing. And to complete Karen's evening Steve hands over the tickets for their holiday / honeymoon.

Emma is eating a large breakfast in the cafe - she went for a walk and the smell of bacon was impossible to pass. Curly tries to grab a sausage but Emma stops him. It seems that Emma is not suffering morning sickness. In the Rovers Betty tells Emma she should have the odd glass of stout. And a name asks Betty - they are thinking about it. In the evening Emma is reviewing a name book and notes some of Max's choices! They decide that "Charley" is not on as the baby would then be Charlie Watts!! Curly has cooked a swordfish steak and places it in front of Emma and she bolts from the room - the smell of the fish was overpowering for Emma - so she is upset by certain smells.

Audrey is getting ready for work and tells Alma she needs to take it easy. Audrey also tells her that Ken in particular was asking why Alma was not looking well. Alma agrees not to do too much but is clearly feeling oppressed by events. Audrey runs into Mike in the Rovers and he asks after Alma. Audrey tries to give nothing away and is very short with Mike. Alma gives the matter some thought - it is starting to feel like a prison and when Molly visits later they discuss Alma revisiting some where that holds good memories for her from the past as a way of getting a change in the current environment. This makes up Alma's mind and she decides to visit the Lake District. Alma makes a booking she has to confirm in writing (how?) which Audrey overhears. Sadly Audrey thinks this is a bad idea and the two of them row before Alma departs. Alma has said goodbye to everyone she needs to - Audrey points out there is an exception - Mike. Audrey tells Alma about Mike in the Rovers. Alma denies that there is any feeling left for Mike, rather too strongly for us to believe. Audrey tries again before Alma's departure but they part on bad terms, following a further argument - Alma does not want to be told what to do, in the way Audrey orders her about. Molly visits and Audrey tells her about the row. Molly explains that the struggle for independence of the terminally ill is common. Audrey feels very frightened - she is so worried about Alma being alone with no help - and Audrey may never see her again and may never be able to put things right between them. Molly helps Audrey see some of Alma's viewpoint and she tries to re-assure Audrey that at some point she will need to let Alma go. We see Alma arriving in the Lake District at a nice hotel where she is warmly greeted by Terry the porter as Mrs Baldwin. Later she has a brief discussion with another guest whose husband is a golf enthusiast before she suffers some bad pain which she alleges is indigestion. Oddly the other guest greets her "husband" (?) with a handshake and a kiss. Very odd. We see Alma looking at the beautiful Lakeland scenery, taking tablets and recalling her stay with Mike and also looking at her wedding ring. She is thinking about times past. Even later Alma meets the other guest again - who is departing. They exchange pleasantries all of which have a double meaning for Alma. Meanwhile Audrey is worried - she confesses to Gail her disagreement and her need to find Alma, who has not phoned as promised. Gail tells her that Mike will know where Alma has gone and Audrey departs to find Mike. (Mike by the way seems to have lost Linda - she was not at home when he returned). Gail arrives at Mike's flat and he has a card for the hotel. Mike wants to know why. Audrey loses it and tells him that Alma is not letting herself go and tells Mike that Alma has cancer. Alma is dying and we close with Mike's face in shock.

In the Kabin a new attractive blonde arrives with Wayne - the lad is back. (Yippee) Sheila Hayes is trying to collect the family allowance but the post office closed at 12 and Norris rightly sends her on her way. Hayley bustles in (Julie H is "extremely" pregnant and there is no attempt to hide the bulge or shoot face only - sadly no storyline can cover this event - and she can only bustle at the moment). Hayley is pleased to see Wayne and invites them to the cafe for a meal, although Sheila wants to collect the family allowance but Wayne makes the viewers aware that the money is for the step father. Wayne and Sheila go the cafe and Wayne eats a meal although Sheila merely has a drink. Roy talks about York where Wayne's school trip is the next week. Sheila says that Wayne winds up his step dad - too quick with his mouth. Roy provides an ice cream but Sheila is keen to collect the family allowance and drags off Wayne who is clearly unhappy with home life. The ice cream is wasted. In the midst of this Roy and Hayley have been told by Mr Hartnell that another child will soon be with them as his father is serving time. Later Wayne re-appears at the cafe and receives another meal. Roy jokes that his mother never feeds him and Wayne agrees saying that cooking gives Sheila a headache (nice line and great delivery). Wayne asks if they have had other foster children and R & H tell about Fizz etc. Wayne says he has not settled down at home - although things will be alright, but he does not want to go back. Later Wayne and Roy play scrabble. Wayne says that he makes Alex angry just by talking - he tries to do the right thing but it just makes Alex angry - he is scared and frightened. Either he talks to much, and when he is quiet Alex reckons he does it deliberately. Wayne tells Roy and Hayley a story about an accident where he was injured by the (not) step-father. Alex grabbed his arm because Wayne swore at him, pushed him against the wall, but Wayne caught his head. Wayne also implies that Sheila cries at night about the problems - and he feels all the blame on his shoulders. Roy says they will do all they can to help. Roy and Hayley discuss Wayne. Roy believes that Alex is a bully and is ill treating Wayne. (I am not so sure - I rather think Wayne is a very bright young man - the next few days may be instructive).

Anthony arrives in the Kabin looking for Rita and they go for a drink. Norris is unhappy at his delayed lunch break. In the Rovers Rita reveals that she has been invited to Cartmel by Mavis and would go but cannot leave Norris by himself and cannot ask Emily to stand in - after all Norris lives with her, so 24 hours a day might prove a little much. Anthony suggests that he could leave the bookshop for a few days and offers to stand in. Initially Rita says no but after a couple of drinks she agrees and they put the suggestion to Norris. He agrees on only one condition - that Norris is in charge. This is agreed and during much of the following day Anthony (Tony to Norris) undergoes extensive instruction on how to do things at the cutting edge of the retail experience. Anthony makes some minor suggestion and is completely pooh- poohed by Norris. Mike arrives and Norris delivers his normal cigars - Mike is about to enjoy a perfect Sunday. Anthony asks for how long Rita is away - ooh just a few days - but time flies when you are having fun. So much so that he needs a double when he arrives in the Rovers, closely followed by Norris who is concerned that he did not return the till key to its appointed home!

Great performances from Sue Nicholls and Amanda Barrie - both have been given the opportunity to prove why the Street is way ahead of other soaps and they have grabbed it with both hands. Sue in particular is normally used for comedy - great to see her showing a much wider range.

K Richard Whitbread

Sarah is "comparing notes" with Candice about London.

Audrey tells Gail that she spoke to Mike about Alma's address. She checked with the hotel that she was there.

Mike tells Linda that he isn't well. He cannot face a meeting with Harvey. She thinks there is something on his mind.

Wayne offers to help Roy and Hayley in the cafe. He wants to stay on another night. Roy says they are in an awkward position. Then his father comes in. Roy hints to the father that there maybe something wrong.

Anthony is reading a letter. Norris says he wishes he had time to read post in working time. Sally asks for a DIY magazine for women. Anthony says they don't have it, and Sally leaves. Norris is annoyed he didn't try and sell her another magazine.

Mike and Audrey discuss Alma. He is concerned about her. He says hasn't told Linda. Audrey says she wants to be on her own.

Harvey asks after Mike. Linda says he had to go to another meeting. He is surprised that he trusts the business in Linda's hands. She says yes he does even though she is a woman.

Roy and Hayley discuss Wayne's father. Roy hopes that now he may suspect they know about him, hopefully he will stop taking it out on Wayne.

Mike arrives at the factory. He still maintains a hangover, and Linda tries to guess what really is wrong. They have a row, and Mike leaves for the Rovers.

Molly tells Kevin that everything went alright at the Citizens Advice Bureau. She wants to thank him by inviting him for supper.

Audrey sees Mike in the Rovers. He says he is not going to sit around, he is going to see Alma whether she likes it or not. Audrey tries to convince Mike that she wants to be on her own. Mike says she could drop dead any minute from what she has said.

Betty comes in for liquorish sweets, and when Anthony says they are out of stock, Norris sells her some toffee sweets. Betty notices the change, but takes them. Norris is pleased, although Anthony thinks that is not the way to treat an old lady.

Peter, the social worker, tells Hayley and Roy that the Child Protection Unit are going to investigate their claims. They are surprised that he is to remain at home while the investigation is undertaken. Peter asks how they found out about it. They say they had to prise it out of him. They have no firm evidence of abuse.

Mike is packing to go away. He tells Linda that Alma is dying.

Peter tells Roy and Hayley that they must now step back and let the authorities deal with the problem. Peter says they shouldn't turn down one foster child in the hope that they will get Wayne.

Linda is annoyed that Mike didn't tell her the previous night about Alma. She is upset that he is going off to see her. She thinks she is playing second fiddle to Alma.

Anthony tells Norris, in the Rovers, that he cannot go along with his selling techniques. He cannot work with Norris' manner. Betty then serves Norris with a double malt whiskey. Norris says that he wanted a single malt. Betty then says there is not much difference in the taste. Anthony says he ought to spoil himself.

Linda tells Mike that if he walks out of the door to Alma, that is them finished. She threatens to divorce him.

Martin Rosen

No its not Sunday but Corrie is putting out extra episodes this week - only Saturday escapes and so I thought I would try a hand at a weekday update.

Do you fancy a go at updates - well another holiday beckons for me and I bet the others will be off on a Summer break so drop me an email and you too could be letting the world know about events in Weatherfield? Unlike the CSVU team we do not get the benefit of pre-screenings and nor are we officially sanctioned, so the usual comment that copyright in all events in Weatherfield are copyright ITV Television Ltd who will I hope eventually re-open the Street for visitors and not object to this record of the comings and goings.

Sponsored this week by Cadburys Dairy Milk.

Written by Peter Whalley, directed by Tony Prescott.

Alma is in the Lake District Hotel not eating breakfast when Mike walks up behind her and coughs. Her response is a couple of very loud NOs. Alma is forced to tell Mike that she is ill - he has stayed overnight. She is highly unamused with his presence - she wants some time to herself. But Mike could not leave her alone - he has had to follow her. Mike admits that Audrey said something like that but ... his mobile phone rings.

Linda at the factory tells Mike he has been away long enough. He cuts the call short and says he will phone her back. Linda slams the phone down.

Alma observes that Mike still has all his conversations interrupted by the moby phonile. If you have one you have to use it. Mike asks if it is terminal - yes, can it be treated - no. How long? Alma doesn't know - not long - and the remaining time she wants to herself. The phone goes again and Mike turns it off.

Linda is in the office doodling when Karen wanders in wanting some work to do. Linda tells her to sit down - after all she is her friend? Mike is not in - he has chased his ex-wife to the Lake District. Which one says Karen. Alma replies Linda (I was surprised Karen knew there was more than one, apart from Susan who is already dead; marriage to Mike is not a good thing at the moment his ex-wives are falling over like flies). Linda tells the story the way she sees it. Karen would kill Steve if he ran off with an ex-wife. Linda is not prepared to understand and nor is Linda. Linda decides to go shopping and takes Karen with her.

Mike and Alma are walking in the grounds. Mike asks if anything can be done in America - or perhaps it is simply the cost of treatment? Alma rounds on him (wonderful bit this). "You have not been listening to me have you, you never listened to me when we were married and you are not listening now. You are not listening to me. I have thought of going to America, Lourdes, Jerusalem, about chemotherapy, alternative treatments, surgery, praying, making a pact with the devil, I have thought about everything - there is nothing else I can think about. So don't come here with "I am Mr Mike Baldwin performance and I can fix everything", because you cannot fix this, nobody can". {Wow she really told him - way to go Alma}. All she can do is to accept it, stop fighting it.

She apologises almost immediately and Mike says he loves her - he always has. Well you got rid of me quickly enough she responds and replaced. Mike says he did not go looking for Linda - she just arrived. Mike reminds Alma that she did the leaving, as they sit on a convenient bench. Alma reminds him that she had a reason and he acknowledges that, but hoped she had bigger reasons for staying. She thinks about and says they were not that obvious at the time. Now Mike has blamed her for their break up he can go.

Back at the Quays Linda and Karen return from some rather expensive shopping, including a rather costly pair of shoes for Karen. Luckily Mike has paid! Karen reckons Mike will not run away again soon. Linda tells Karen that Lama is dying. Neither of them show much sympathy for Alma, although it is Linda's excuse for shopping instead of a solicitor.

Alma is now telling Mike about Frank and the events we have seen over recent weeks. Alma is grateful that Frank was straight with her. Alma says Audrey has been wonderful - and Mike says that he has now got him - he is going to take care of her - it went wrong and it was his fault. At this point Alma has one of her pains and Mike helps her to her room and her medication.

Linda tries to talk Karen into returning to work. Mike phones Linda and finds her at home. Mike tells Linda that Alma is ill and he cannot leave her - he will not be home tonight. Linda shouts at him to return today like he promised. He can't because Alma needs him. Linda hears that he "won't" return (her interpretation) and tells him that Alma can have him - she does not want him. The phone call ends. Karen asks what next - more shopping? Linda replies it has gone beyond shopping now.

After the break we find Linda and Karen back at work. Message from Hayley - Harvey phoned about a meeting. They go into the office and close the door. Linda thought about turning up at the hotel - but it would not work. Linda does not care how ill Alma is - Mike has broken his promise and is not returning home. Linda would be off with an ex- husband if she had one. Anyway Linda will now break a promise to Mike, although she is not sure how. And Karen had better say nothing to the rest of the girls.

Alma descends the stairs - obviously in discomfort, but looking a lot better. Alma wants to know if she is keeping him from anything. He denies it - he will be with her all the time and will take her home when she has had enough. Once again the moby rings. Linda gives him a last chance - she has tried to be understanding - if he returns home now then all will be well. Linda wants him home now, not matter what she does not want him spending another night in the same hotel as his ex-wife. Mike says Alma needs him and he turns and looks at her, looking frail and he makes a decision, he will be staying and he says sorry no and the call is terminated by Linda. Mike turns the phone off.

Alma asks if it was Linda - Mike says yes and he told her before he left. Does she mind? Mike says the important thing is that Alma wants him there and she admits that she does want that.

Linda greets Harvey and thanks him for coming to the flat at short notice. They have a drink. Harvey likes the flat - well Linda says Mike used to live here with his ex - so I had to throw a lot out! Is he joining us asks Harvey? He is away for the night Linda responds. Harvey is ready to discuss the new contract. Linda does not want to discuss the contract - she admits he has been brought there under false pretences. Mike is away for the night - she is on her own and that was when she thought of Harvey.

Alma and Mike are having a drink and Alma asks if Mike is happy with Linda. Mike admits he is not as happy as with her. Mike admits people think he did well in replacing the older model with the younger. Mike admits that he and Alma grew older together and sadly he is not as happy. Alma is sorry to hear that. Mike admits that he should have thrown their marriage away - he is obstinate. He does not try to put things right - he looks for revenge. He admits he needs Alma - he always did. She says she would have come back. Mike knew that - but did not know how to ask. He asks "What have we done Alma?". She shakes her head.

Harvey is on the point of turning Linda down - Linda says she is married but she and Mike have an understanding - they go their own ways. Harvey gives it some thought and suggests that they should go out for a drink - maybe to a hotel. Linda says that it makes little difference where - Linda says have another drink - she does not want to go out. Harvey asks if there is a game going on. Linda reckons he is scared - he denies it but Linda says he would be if he knew what she has in mind for him.

In Alma's bedroom Mike is tidying up and asking if there is anything she needs. Alma does not want Mike to think of her as a sick old woman. He pays her a few compliments - he regrets what happened. Mike bitterly regrets his parting from Alma so he has decided to leave Linda. He cannot just go back to her, he wants to be together again. Alma protests weakly that she is going to die. He will spend as much time as he can with her. Alma accepts that Mike will be with her till the end of her life.

Harvey is still in two minds. Linda says her husband is away and she wants some fun. It is just between the two of them. Linda values her marriage and all that goes with it. She is on her own and lonely and she leans forward, they kiss.

Mike is stroking Alma's forehead as she drops off to sleep and he has a calmness which is rare for Mike.

Finally Mike's heart has a softer side, after all these years.

And Linda - well what can you say? This is a soap after all.

I should be back on Sunday. - K Richard Whitbread

The girls are waiting outside the factory. There's no-one there to open up. Karen tells them they won't be seeing Mike. What was going on yesterday? they wonder. She can't say, it was private.

Over at the flat, Harvey finishes dressing. He wonders when Mike's due back. Linda comments they never did sort out the contracts, they'll have to get together again. She gets a call from Karen, is she going to open up today? Yes, she's on her way. Then she suggests to Harvey that they take a holiday. After some discussion, they agree to meet again tonight. Big snog.

Mike and Alma are having breakfast. He watched her all night. Alma wants to know if he's mentioned anything to Linda yet. No, this is the sort of thing you need to do face to face. He suggests they take a boat trip on the lake.

Linda finally turns up at the factory in a taxi. She tells them the place will stay shut today and tomorrow and reopen on Mon (so today must be Thurs, which is a bit confusing). But they'll still get paid. There's no catch, go and enjoy yourselves. Karen has a word. Linda tells her that if Mike can have a holiday, they all can. The longer it goes on, the more he pays. More shopping then, asks Karen. No, yesterday was shopping, today his business is shut. And tomorrow? If he's got any sense, he won't risk it.

Hayley goes back to the café where Roy sees this as a bad sign. What if the factory never reopens? Gail asks Audrey to join them in London, but she doesn't feel she can leave Alma. Gail thinks this may be her only chance for a break. Hayley gets a phone call: Social Services are coming at 1pm. Roy can see only one reason, they'll tell them they can look after Wayne permanently. (Not like Roy to be so optimistic).

Norris tells Tony he enjoys working with him. Men are less stressful. However, Rita's not bad, he thinks of her as an honorary man. Anthony suggests he keep this from Rita. Janice enters, trying to get information from Karen, who amazingly keeps the secret.

Mike and Alma are now on the boat. He wonders where else she'd thought of visiting. Well nowhere. She doesn't know how long she's got and wants to be at home when the time comes. She thinks of dying as a big black cloud, getting closer and closer. Would she rather not know? No, she'd rather face it. But she's frightened of when it will be and how it will feel.

Gail and Molly go to the Rovers at lunchtime. She tells her about going to London and how she'd like Audrey to go with them. Molly says they just don't know how long Alma's got (is it only Mat who does know?) Kevin is also there and is greeted with "My hero!" She passes this off as fixing her car, but we know differently. There are lots of smiles between them. In a booth, Bobbi is also trying to get information from Karen. Does Mike know about the factory? She's worried that this is a game between Mike and Linda, and their jobs are on the line.

Social Services arrive at the café. You've made allegations regarding Wayne Hayes. The mans' a bully, says Roy. They've investigated the matter, spoken to everyone and they tell a different story. They say you're trying to discredit them so you can have Wayne here. The allegations are completely false and made up between you.

Interval

We see Roy closing the shop. He thinks that Alex will say anything to protect himself. Mrs. Hayes will support him and Wayne will be too frightened. But Wayne was spoken to alone and had every opportunity to say anything if he wanted. They have to look at who has most to gain. They can find no support for the allegations. But you kept Wayne here overnight. They argue like this for a while, then Roy can see that they're not going to get anywhere and asks them to leave. Hayley is very upset. Social Services suggest they were overzealous. Roy has the last word. If you've got half a conscience you'll think of that boy and check on him day and night to make sure he comes to no harm.

The boat trip is over and Alma is tired. She thinks she'll go back soon. OK, Mike will take her. But she doesn't want to break up his marriage. Forget that, the only thing that matters if you. (Beautiful scenery here by the way).

Hayley has considered events and thinks that Social Services can after all only go on what they've been told. Roy wonders if Wayne could have lied to them. He'd prefer it that way, as then he'd be OK. But they both believe he was telling the truth.

Mike calls Linda. How are things? How do you think they are, when my husband's run off with his ex wife? Mike tells her he'll be back tomorrow. But Linda wanted him back yesterday. You're telling me I'm second best. I always have been and I always will be.

Gail and Molly are in the Rovers again. Audrey chases after them. Mike has phoned and said he'll look after Alma, so she's free to go to London after all. Norris wonders if Rita has mentioned retirement. He's not sure how old she is. Why do women keep their age secret? Is she 60? 65? Anthony gives nothing away. Molly gets Kevin a pint. What's he doing tonight? Does he fancy the pictures? Alright. Audrey and Gail smile to themselves.

Alma and Mike are walking round the grounds. She appreciates what he said yesterday, but she doesn't want Mike to leave Linda. I'm dying. I don't want you to be lonely.

Linda meanwhile is pouring Harvey a glass of wine. She's going to cook for them as whatever they got up to yesterday made them both ravenous. Harvey shouldn't worry about Mike. Whenever he walks in, he'll walk straight back out again.

Alma tells Mike that she doesn't want the last thing she does in life to be to break up his marriage. You love Linda. Promise me you won't leave her. Mike promises, but is still confident he can make it up with Linda.

She continues her speech to Harvey. He'll walk out because I'm going to divorce him. So I'll be a free agent. I'll make sure he's going to have to sell his factory, so you could make a killing on that. Me and the factory - a package deal.

Karen Brown

At the Baldwins flat its 11am and Harvey and Linda are chatting whilst he get ready to go to work. Harvey's surprised that she's not even bothered that they have become lovers in her martial bed. She says it's her bed too. Heavy snog. She's pouring champagne and Harvey's just out of the shower modelling a very nice dark pink towel regrettably over his shoulders and the nether regions are clad in another towel. The front door opens and Mike appears, takes in the scene and says "You're gutless Reubens just like your Dad". Linda sulkily declares that's rich coming from Mike since "that bitch clicks her fingers and you come running - she's dying, she says". Mike slaps her. So, "I've been right all along" says Mike. Harvey says listen. Mike says "You're trash". Linda responds "Order book full of business and look who you'd rather be with (Alma)" Mike retorts "You're welcome to him (Harvey" and he leaves. Linda announces that she will screw Mike for every penny and who can blame her? Linda expects Harvey to be more considerate but he merely opines "It was never going to be true love and I've known sewer rats with more morals, marry a machinist and look what you get" Her parting shot to Harvey as he exits is "Scumbag" to which he retorts "See you around".

Karen Macdonald arrives. Linda wants to get bladdered. Karen asks what's she celebrating? Linda's not sure but she thinks Brick Farm Estate, where they both grew up. Karen asks if Linda and Mike have had a row. Linda admits she slept with Harvey Reuben (twice as we know) . She tells Karen that it gets worse as Mike came home and found us - laugh - why don't you - everybody else will. Karen sniggers at the thought of Harvey being caught with his pants down. Linda admits she's blown it, she's pushed Mike to the limit with Mark and he won't wear it this time around.

Alma staggers into Audrey's. Mike's got the baggage. She cant believe how tired she feels after a couple of hour's car journey (mebbe it's the way Mike drives?) She says she'll call Molly and tells Mike to go home and get on with his life. He says he'll visit everyday, sometimes twice. She says that she had a wonderful time and was glad he had come. She's not a total invalid and Mike says he'll see her later. He goes to drown his sorrows at the Rovers and let's the cart out of the bag to Ken, who comes rushing round to see Alma. "Why didn't you tell me" demands Ken. "I didn't want pity" replies Alma. "Nothing can be done". Ken assures her he's around if she needs anything. "A hug please" says Alma. Molly arrives and says she'll leave as Alma's got company. Alma says "don't go, I'll just fetch something I've got for you" Ken wants to go for her. No! says Alma. Whilst she's out of the room Ken tells Molly he can't believe the news, what should he do. Molly tells him to follow Alma's lead, medically they will try to control the pain, wanting to carry on as though nothing has happened is the most normal thing in the world. Mike arrives and Alma is astonished that he and Ken are civil to each other. Ken departs telling Alma to "just shout" if there's anything he can do. Alma admits that it's time her friends knew. Mike tells her she's the important one now. Alma is disappointed that he's not with Linda. He tells her he's changed his mind. She responds "You're future's with Linda" He tells Alma "All I care about is in this room, no-one else matters".

In the Rovers Karen and Janice are having a "holiday drink". Janice keeps nudging Janice and saying "Let's have it, give us the gossip". Ultimately Janice mentions that Mike still has a soft spot for his ex-missus and has gone on a little jaunt.

Dougie opens the post and it's the Landlord of the Year application form. He can't believe the amount of paper. What's a B52 - his younger barmaid explains it's a cocktail and you're supposed to know things like that for the competition. Dougie can't believe there's supposed to be staff training and admits that Betty knows more than he'd ever learn.

Out in the bar Mike is drowning his sorrows (having caused Ken to go to Alma). He natters to Fred, the factory's shut, Alma's dying with cancer and I wish it was me but somehow I've got to get things in perspective.

Audrey rushes in to Roy's Rolls to get some buts and pieces before she, Gail, Sara Lou and Bethany take off to London for a little trip. She bumps into Fred on the pavement who tells her not to be a stranger just because he's seeing Eve. Sarah Lou dashes in looking for Audrey concerned that they'll miss the train, the taxi's been waiting 10 mins. As the taxi departs, Mike arrives at the factory to find it locked.

Roy and Hayley mull over what it must be like to go on a family outing, Roy says it depends on the composition of your family. Hayley puzzles over the fact that Wayne's Mum didn't interfere, she cant believe a mother would let her own son be mistreated. But of course there are other children who need fostering. "There's nothing we can do". The Croppers go off to visit Wayne's Mum Sheila Hayes. They ask her to tell the truth. Mrs Hayes replies "You don't know what you're asking who's going to protect me?" As the Croppers walk away Alex (the lover) appears and sees them. Hayley and Roy chat about the way in which the Social Services could protect Sheila and Wayne. Later, Mr Hartnell (their social worker) comes to see them at the caf. He tells them they are obsessed with Wayne and that their whole attitude is wrong. Roy storms at him that Swinton's lying. Mr Hartnell reminds them that they must not get emotionally involved. He thinks it best if they are suspended from fostering for the time being and that their attitude is all wrong. He leaves. Hayley tries to calm Roy down.

We must be nearing the end of the road for Alma. Hankies out and hands in pocket for floral tributes methinks.

K Richard Whitbread

Written by Joe Turner Directed by Ian Bevitt

Mike and Alma in Audrey's house, where Mike has stayed the night. Mike offers breakfast, but Alma isn't hungry. Mike insists that he'll look after Alma as long as necessary, but Alma asks about Linda - what happened? Mike says they're finished. If Mike's going to stay, he'll need a change of clothes. Alma tells Mike that she had a really special time but that he has to go home. Mike's mobile rings - Linda - he switches it off. Mike agrees to go home for some clothes when he learns that Molly (the nurse) is due soon. Mike goes off to make breakfast - toast and strawberry jam.

Roy and Hayley are debating what to do about Wayne. Roy insists that they can't just give up, and that they have to do something. But what?

In the Kabin, Norris and Anthony are very chummy, for a change. Norris says that it's been good to have some intelligent company. Rita not intelligent, then? Of course she is, but it's a 'man' thing, says Norris; male bonding and all that. Team work. Norris refers to what he calls Anthony's 'intellectual tallness' contrasted to his own 'easy- going witty charm'. They chink their coffee cups in apparent mutual admiration!

In the Rover's, Betty asks Hayley if she's been to see Alma yet. Obviously, this is the first time that Hayley has heard about Alma's cancer. Shelley keeps trying to persuade Dougie to have another theme night, but he says he has no intention of dressing-up as a woman again. Roy rushes into the pub and drags Hayley back to their flat - there's something she must see...

Alma has a visitor - Linda. Where's Mike? She says she doesn't want a fight; that's just as well, says Alma, for she hasn't the energy. Linda tells Alma that she looks fine to her, and demands to know what is 'going on'. What happened in the Lake District? Alma assures Linda that she and Mike are, after having been married a long time, good friends, not lovers. Linda, however, is convinced that Alma is a 'habit that Mike's having trouble giving up'.

Roy and Hayley are back in their flat and Roy starts to discuss what they could do about Wayne. What they need is proof of Alex's physical abuse of the boy. Roy then produces a small tape recorder which has been hidden under a newspaper and replays the tape of their conversation to Hayley - they could lure Alex Swinton to the flat with the promise of money and record their talk, of course including his 'confession'. Hayley protests at first, but then agrees they could try.

Alma tells Linda that she sent Mike home. Suddenly, Alma realises why Linda is so angry and she jumps to the right conclusion - Linda has cheated on Mike again. She calls Linda 'poison' and Linda retorts that Mike has only pity for Alma, and that she is a 'haggard old vulture'. She pushes Alma who collapses on the floor.

INTERVAL

Alma is wheeled into hospital, unconscious, on a trolley. Linda follows, looking shocked. Linda is told to wait outside, since she is only a 'friend'. She reaches for her mobile, but then decides to use the public phone instead.

Mike is speaking to Betty in the Rover's - life goes past so fast, he has to take stock. Shelley is still trying to persuade Dougie to hold another theme night. A Race Night? Bingo? Mike answers his mobile (number withheld!). Linda tells him not to hang up; Alma is in hospital. Mike pales, tells Linda to stay there, for he's on his way. Before he runs out of the pub, he tells Dougie what's happened. Curly and Ken follow in Ken's car. Not to be put off, Shelley advises Dougie 'Don't let this put you off a Bingo night...'

Norris and Anthony are playing a fun version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire? in the Kabin when Rita arrives. She's pleased, and not a bit surprised, to see them getting on so well.

Mike arrives at the hospital and speaks to the doctor. Apparently, Alma has suffered kidney failure, but she's stable. Mike tells Linda to go to Hell, and goes in to be with Alma. Curly and Ken arrive. Linda, looking worried, goes outside for a cigarette.

Alex arrives at the Croppers' flat. Yes, he's interested in money. He does admit to the lad, Wayne, needing 'discipline'. However, he wonders what is going on...

Mike is at Alma's bedside. She wakens, not knowing what happened. Mike tells her to fight, but she knows that this is a battle she'll lose. I love you, Alma. Mike asks her that, if they had stayed together, would things have been different. 'You've got a high opinion of yourself, Mike Baldwin', she says. Can Mike do anything ? Yes, Alma wants to go home to die.

Mike goes to look for the doctor. Curly, Ken and Linda are waiting. When the doctor arrives, Mike tells him to do whatever is necessary so that Alma can go home, NOW.

Roy offers Alex 20, which he thinks is a very unfunny joke. He pockets the cash and prepares to leave. Click! He stops in his tracks, wondering what the sound was, and soon discovers the hidden tape recorder which he then smashes to pieces on the floor. Roy and Hayley cower in fright as he offers to let them have Wayne for 10,000 - he'll even bring him round!

K Richard Whitbread

Tonight's episode had only two stories running. Hayley and Roy seeking to help Wayne whilst Alma is dying at Audrey's. Rather than interweave them I have decided to tell each line separately. Events were sponsored tonight by Cadburys Dairy Milk.

Episode written by Joe Turner, directed by Ian Bevitt

So first Roy and Hayley. There are taking breakfast discussing Wayne. Hayley suggests talking to Mr Hartnell but they are unlikely to be believed. Roy reckons the world is upside down. They had to go to great lengths to prove they should be allowed to foster and yet Alex Swinton can simply come along and demand 10 grand for a child he does not want (and what about the mother in all of this?). Hayley is worried that they may be allowed to foster at all. She is scared. Roy is aware of the downside - but Hayley wants a child in their lives. Hayley is keen not to burn bridges.

Hayley returns to Roy and brings him up to date on Alma dying. Alex Swinton has been on the phone and is bringing Wayne round to see them. Hayley will go to see Alma later.

Later Alex and Wayne arrive in the flat for a cup of tea, so that R & H can see how he is. Hayley says Wayne is always welcome. Wayne asks for a milkshake. Wayne's wrist is bandaged. Allegedly he fell over in the street playing football, after some prompting from Alex. Roy, reminding Alex that he is a trained first aider, unwraps the bandage to show a very nasty bruise on Wayne's wrist. The story sounds very manufactured and Alex hints that children are like that - accidents always happening round their way - dangerous things round their way, someone should do something, clearly hinting that Wayne would be better off elsewhere.

Alex suggests to Wayne that if he asks Roy for some money he can go to the shops for some sweets. Roy gets out his purse and hands over 50p but Alex chides him and suggests at least 1 - does he not know the cost of sweets these days? Roy ponies up. Alex tells him to be careful crossing the road. This gives Alex the chance to speak to R&H. Have they thought about his offer? Was he serious - not originally but know he is. He has got debts. Life is tough - and sometimes he and Linda take it out on Wayne. They were better off when Wayne was in care. Alex is willing to settle for 5 grand - he will keep Social Services happy. Wayne likes them and they like Wayne - 5k and everyone is happy.

R & H are discussing in whispers the proposition. Hayley does not believe they can accept but Roy feels that it might be worth trying, simply to provide a lever. They turn to Alex and agree his terms. Roy asks for Wayne to be left - he will only leave Wayne when he has cash - a cheque is not accepted. R & H do not have 5k instantly available. Alex refuses to leave Wayne without the money - if they get it they can have Wayne. So an agreement sort of exists and Alex leaves, although Roy tries to extract a promise that Wayne will suffer no more harm.

At Audrey's Mike is resting as Molly brings breakfast downstairs - Alma ate nothing, she is past eating. Molly is on her day off but plans to stay - there will be an agency nurse shortly and Dr Ramsden will be in this afternoon. Mike goes upstairs to keep Alma comfortable - he has a cup of tea.

Curly has left the Kabin with a newspaper and meets Ken who is going round to Audrey's. Curly is going to check with Streetcars if a taxi has been booked to meet Audrey from London. Both Ken and Curly are showing signs of deep concern. Curly meets Hayley bustling along the Street. Sadly Hayley is aware of Alma's position but cannot see her now (and indeed lest we forget Alma was Hayley's first friend on the Street, remember the discussion outside Freshcos?).

Linda is let in by Molly and asks after Alma - she is heavily dosed on morphine. Linda has a large card for Mike (from Adam - it is Father's Day) and initially refuses to stay - she is not close to Alma and anyroad Linda could not bear to see her - she is not good with sickness. However Molly prevails - making tea etc.

Alma stirs from her sleep and Mike is instantly by her side. Alma asks if it is still raining. Alma says she looks awful but Mike says she looks fine. Alma asks if those things should be drawn and has difficulty remembering the word "curtains". Damn morphine - stops you thinking. Mike understands. Does she want anything to eat or drink? Alma just wants Audrey - she wants to see her - and starts crying. Ken arrives and sits on the bed. Ken asks how she is. Alma is alert enough to tell Mike and Ken "No arguing, no fighting - you both have to be nice to me". Ken promises. Alma says this is nice - she thought it would hurt but it doesn't. Both say they are not going to leave her. (Memories resurface of her bouncing between the two of them before she married Mike and again recently - which she ended by sending Dreary back to Mike).

Mike goes downstairs and finds Linda tidying. What is she doing there. Linda delivers the card from Adam - he phoned Mike's mobile. Adam will phone again tonight. Mike simply tells Linda repeatedly that he does not want her there - she is not welcome. Linda tells him he is doing a good thing and that she wants to support him, she will stay out of the way, making tea. Matt arrives. Mike brings him up to date. Every one remarks how tired Mike is. Linda volunteers to make sandwiches - Molly has to find out what people want.

Matt examines Alma - although she has trouble remembering him. She has no pain - if she feels uncomfortable she is to let them know. Again she asks after Audrey - expected anytime - never there when she is needed. Alma has not been able to drink anything. Mike offers some music and the doctor tells her to rest. Mike starts the music - Perry Como. Alma wakes on hearing it and she and Mike gaze into each other's eyes. Ken is trying to track down Audrey - no luck. Ken asks Linda about the previous day - he re-assures Linda that there argument is not the cause of Alma's death. Linda will not go upstairs.

Finally Audrey, Gail, Sarah and Bethany have returned. They are all in good humour until Curly appears to bring them up to date - bags and bags of shopping. Audrey asks if they have got days or weeks - Curly responds more like hours.

Ken and Mike are with Alma. Mike recalls taking Alma to see Perry Como. They had an early meal - tickets bought months in advance. Taxi to the Royal Albert Hall - and her face was really lit up when he came on the stage. Mike admits to making a few mistakes and Ken acknowledges they all have. Mike says his biggest mistake was letting Alma slip through his fingers. Mike says he wants Alma to know, but she is asleep. Ken says she can still hear him. Mike turns to Alma (with Ken listening) and she has to know that he never loved anyone like he loved her - he really means it.

Audrey rushes to Alma - with Curly driving at 5mph. They are almost there when Audrey has an attack of nerves - she cannot go in. She cannot face it. Gail re-assures her. Audrey does not know what to say or do - she cannot face Alma dying. Curly reminds Audrey that Alma has been asking for her.

Linda comes out of the house and tells Audrey that Alma needs her now. Audrey and Linda rush back into the house. Molly is tidying. Audrey summons up her reserves and goes upstairs, Molly follows and Linda follows her.

Audrey starts talking nonsense as Gail and Curly arrive behind her. Audrey promises to look after her. Alma does not respond and Audrey starts crying. Matt checks Alma's pulse "I'm sorry she's gone". Audrey, Mike and Ken are in tears, Curly distressed in the background, Gail comforts Audrey and Linda lays an arm on Mike's shoulder. And Linda's face has an odd expression - one I cannot fathom - is she gloating at the death of an enemy or suffering the realisation that Mike will never love her like that - especially after the events of the last week, or perhaps both?

Goodbye Alma, we will miss you.

K Richard Whitbread

Gail comes downstairs as Audrey is busying herself polishing. She is full of remorse for going away when Alma needed her. She hopes that Alma heard her make her apologies.

Linda is trying to console Mike. He is still being off with her. She says she knows how it feels to loose someone you love. He tells her all she did was to screw around Harvey Rubin rather than feeling for him.

Hayley, Vera and Ken are all talking about the death in the cafe. Ken says it was only a few days ago that he and Hayley were around having dinner with her.

Roy asks Hayley to consider what they want to do with Wayne. She is more upset about Alma to discuss it.

Maxine tells Ashley that she has decided on their holiday, knowing that he doesn't like flying. She suggests Ireland.

Charlie asks Emma how she feels about being pregnant. She says she had 20 oranges in one go! Maxine chips in with her advice.

Janice is trying to find out from Karen about what is going on between the Baldwins. Linda tells them they have a big order to get out, and they have to make up time for when they were off.

Gail says the funeral has been arranged for Wednesday. Mike offers to put a notice in the local paper. Audrey says that Alma doesn't want people to wear black.

Martin comes into the pub and talks to Ken and Curly, and mentions a seige in town.

Roy tells Hayley he thinks he has come up with an option to assure Wayne's well-being. He will pay Alex the 5000.

Maxine and Emma are still having pregancy talk in the pub. Then she asks Ashley if he has made up his mind about Ireland. She helps to make up his mind.

There is an article in the paper about the armed response unit being involved in a siege. Curly hopes that Emma wasn't involved as she is pregnant. She says she will tell her bosses when she is ready to, and storms out of the pub.

Hayley tells Roy that they don't have the money to pay Alex. Roy thinks that they maybe able to scrape it together. Hayley says it is the responsibility of the Social Services. Roy doesn't think they should rely on them.

Audrey picks up a video tape which Alma has left. It has a note to say that it musn't be shown until after the funeral. Mike tells her that she was a very, very good friend to Alma.

David comes home from playing football. He is all muddy. Gail thought he was playing football and not mudwrestling. David and Sarah start arguing. Martin tries to keep the peace but Gail bursts out crying.

Curly pressures Emma to tell her bosses. She loses her temper, and throws down dinner, but they soon make up.

Mike comes home drunk. Linda tells him that the girls in the factory are woking flat out to make up for the order. He then tells her that as it is his flat she will be in the spare room tonight.

Roy says he has come round to Hayley's point of view. He says he wants to go out for a walk on his own.

Emma says she sees Curly's point of view. She says she will tell her bosses first thing in the morning.

Maxine talks about Dublin to Ashley. He says he hasn't agreed to it yet.

Roy meets Alex in the pub. He says there are two conditions to the arrangement. Firstly that Wayne knows nothing about this, and that he doesn't tell anything to his wife. He will tell her that he had a change of heart.

Note - Hayley is beginning to look a little larger around the stomach. It must be all the leftovers she is eating at the cafe!!!!

Well on Friday we are on the move! To help with this Janette has kindly offered to do an extra episode this week (for topica and spots). I will hopefull be back and err .. settled by next Monday!

Martin Rosen

Roy and Hayley are discussing human rights. There's still suffering and misery in the world. Roy wants to do his part to reduce it by helping Wayne. Hayley thinks they're doing all they can, but refuses to talk about it further on Alma's day. They must stick with their decision. She leaves, with Roy promising to meet her there.

Linda tell Mike it's not easy watching him mourn the love of his life, knowing she can't copete. He suggests she use the door. No, she wants to help him and that's why she'll be by his side today. He thinks it's too late to be the loyal wife.

Roy asks Vera about disagreements in her marriage over matters of principle. Would she deceive Jack if she thought the deceit prevented suffering. Well, I suppose so. She cited the case of Jack, Terry and the kidney. This gives Roy the go ahead, though I feel Vera is not the best person for a discussion on ethics.

The hearse arrives at the crematorium. Audrey greets people, not dressed in black as Alma wished. We meet Alma's cousin, Richard Hillman. They were close as kids but lost touch. He read about her death in the paper (isn't that sad? We learn later he lives in Manchester, so why was he reading the Weatherfield Gazette?) Ken can't believe he's there. Curly wonders if there'll be anyone there from the hospital after what happened. This is when Ken and Deirdre learn about the smear scandal. They're horrified. They all file in, where we hear Eve Cassidy singing Over the Rainbow, one of Alma's favourites. Audrey and Gail touch the coffin and then hold hands. (This is a humanist funeral, so I don't know what to call the celebrant). She says that they are here to honour the life of Alma. They will remember her and say farewell without any religious ritual. Frank arrives at the back. She continues. We're going to take leave of someone we've loved and say thanks for the experiences and memories we've shared.

Alex arrives at Roy's flat. Roy wants them to think of a plausible story so no-one will know about the money. What's he told Sheila. Apparently, she's just a glad to see the back of him. (Surely not, my guess is she doesn't even know. There'll be trouble when she finds out). Roy has some conditions. There must be no trouble from Social Services. Alex won't return for more money or indeed anything at all. Alex suggests he run this by his solicitor. Look, if you want Wayne, pay up. Roy then tries to pay in instalments but is forced to cough up the lot.

Time for Ken's tribute. He thinks the ceremony is Very Alma. She wanted today to be happy and a celebration. She wasn't a world leader or a celebrity but brave and kind, honest and special. She didn't judge us and understood when we were upset, lonely or depressed, because she'd felt that way too. And she shared in our joy at the little important things in life. We went to her with our problems, knowing she'd give us warmth and acceptance. It breaks my heart that she told nearly no-one when she knew she was dying. She didn't ask for help and kept the secret from everyone she knew. (Gets angry). But I can't ignore the fact that she suffered unnecessarily and this tragedy needn't have happened. (Curly looks stony). But we can be glad we knew Alma. She'll always be remembered in our hearts.

During the committal, Audrey reads a poem chosen by Alma.

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not here, I do not sleep
I am a thousand winds that blow
I am the diamond glints on snow
I am the sunlight on ripened grain
I am the gently autumn rain
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight
I am the soft stars that shine at night
Do not stand at my grave and cry
I am not there I did not die

As she reads, we move out of the room, across the graveyard and into the lovely blue sky.

Interval

Alex returns with Wayne. Is it true I can stay here? If that's what you want. Yes please, but he wonders why he can stay now when he couldn't before. Roy and Hayley have spoken to Alex and agreed to make it a permanent arrangement. Alex chips in. We haven't been getting on and your mam needs a rest. Everything else will stay the same but you'll be living here. Alex leaves. Roy asks Wayne to make himself at home. We zoom in on his face as he wonders just what he's done.

Everyone is now back at Audrey's, where there's a lovely spread with champagne. Provided by caterers and paid for by Mike. Janice is a bit shocked by this but is reminded that Alma meant a lot to him. Rita adds, to all of us. Max apologises to Audrey for not being sympathetic when she was taking time off. She should have known there was a good reason. Gail wants Audrey to slow down, but if she does, it will hit her. She continues to chat to everyone and encourages them to eat and drink. Mike wonders how Frank can show his face. He wanted to pay his respects. Mike continues to attack him and he decides to leave, but Audrey persuades him to stay. Alma didn't hold it against him.

Hayley gets home, very angry that Roy wasn't there. Nothing could be more important than Alma's funeral. Roy tells her that Alex has agreed Wayne can stay with them. You mean you paid him. No, no, I appealed to his better nature (So much for the plausible story then).

Gail is introduced to cousin Richard. He lives in Manchester but goes all over the country as a financial advisor. Ken checks with Audrey that he didn't spoil his tribute, but he'd just found out about the tests and was so angry. She assures him what he said was lovely.

Teatime is over at the Croppers and Wayne goes to sort out his room. Roy tells her that Alex did arrive with the intent to extort money, but when he saw it wasn't going to work, he said they should just take him. You might as well keep the little brat, I paraphrase of course. Making it up as you go along, thinks Hayley. What about his mother. Roy maintains it's best all round. She thinks the house will have one less punchbag and Alex will just hit her more. But Roy says Sheila is an adult and can choose who she lives with. Wayne can't.

Audrey tells them of Alma's request and puts the video on. (It's very weird to see her when she's supposed to be dead). She hopes they're not shocked or embarrassed. She wants them to know that's she's accepted she's going to die and come to terms with it. She'll die calm and at peace. Now she wants to say goodbye to them all properly.

Hayley thinks it was very fishy that all this happened when she was out (how did Roy ever think he'd fool her?) Roy tries to persuade her it's best that Wayne is away from that man. She still thinks what they're doing is iffy. What happens when Social Services ask them to foster again? What address does Wayne give at school? Roy flounders and Hayley assures him the truth will out. Then they'll be in trouble. But she doesn't have an answer as to what they should do. Roy thinks drastic action was the only way.

Alma thanks her work pals at Freshco, especially Ken and Curly. Ken has always been special to her and Curly should be Prime Minister. She hopes City go back up. Gail has been one of her best pals through thick and thin. Remember all the good times we had in the café. Hayley is a very special woman, you and Roy are great, look after each other. She thanks Mike for seven happy years of marriage. They were good for each other. He must get in touch with Mark as life's too short. (He looks thoughtful and Linda looks uncomfortable). Audrey, you've been the best mate anyone could have. Thanks for dragging me through these months. You've all meant so much to me. I can't believe I won't see you again. I've had a wonderful live, a lot of it down to you. She blows them a kiss. Remember me. (Silent tears fall from many people in the room).

Karen Brown

Written by Daran Little Directed by Anne Ross Muir

Linda is still trying to get Mike to talk to her; she's not happy sleeping in the spare room. She asks what she has to do to get his attention - die? Mike is shocked by that and tells Linda that she disgusts him. He leaves for the Lakes...

Maxine runs out of her house to catch Emma - she has a load of baby magazines for her. Maxine also promises Emma her continued support and advice, but Emma tells her that she'd rather get on with things herself, with Curly of course. Maxine looks hurt. Jason is opening a letter that Todd has just given him. He's delighted, at first, to find that he's been selected by the Athletic Federation to take part, all expenses paid, in a training course in Budapest. Where is that, he wonders? Todd tells him it's in 'Hungria'! However,

Jason is so disappointed when he sees that the closing date was on Wednesday, two days ago. His Mum's fault for not bringing the letter round to Kirk's, where he's staying at the moment. Todd tells him that Dennis is not so bad - she's had worse! - but Jason doesn't want to know. He's off to use her washing machine...

In the cafe, Candice asks Sarah if she ought to get her hair done like Kim in Popstars. Sarah doesn't care; she only wants to forget about nappies for a while.

Roy is giving Wayne his packed lunch for school. Wayne looks happy and leaves. Hayley says that she didn't sleep a wink last night and says that they should let the Social Work Department know about the situation. Roy disagrees. Hayley is worried what Alex Swinton may do.

Mike and Audrey are beside Windermere, a spot she loved, while Mike would have preferred Florida for their past holidays together. He admits to having thrown his marriage away and is full of remorse. Audrey reassures him that no one can hurt Alma now.

In Underworld, Hayley is moping at her machine and Janice and Karen wonder why. They wonder if Roy is, as they put it, 'making unreasonable requests' - another cup of cocoa before bed? [A rare pause for laughter when Karen dons a pair of red knickers on her head!] Linda raps on the window of her office to order them back to work. Karen goes into the office and asks Linda what's wrong. Linda tells Karen that Mike won't speak to her. Karen retorts that it's hardly surprising in the circumstances. Anyway, the latest order is important. Karen suggests that Linda gives a hand, but she's too busy.

Roy interrupts Hayley in their flat as she's on the phone. He goes to leave and then hears Hayley asking to speak to Peter Hartnell. He put his hand on the phone and cuts her off, forcing the truth out of him - he has paid Alex Swinton 5,000. At first, Hayley is shocked and silent, but then her anger surfaces. How could Roy be so stupid!?

Mike and Audrey on a boat on Windermere. Audrey looks calm but Mike is distraught. Through his tears, he says 'sorry' to Alma for all his lies, but can't bring himself to scatter her ashes. Audrey takes the urn from him and, after recalling some good memories of Alma, she scatters the ashes.

Good-bye, Alma...

INTERVAL

Mike and Audrey, still on Windermere, talk about their lives. Linda has been, he says, a big mistake. No lady, not like Alma. Linda liked his wallet! Alma even sold her share of the cafe when he was in financial trouble with the factory. Let Alma rest in peace, says Audrey, and get on with life.

At Underworld, Linda refuses to speak to Reubens on the phone when his secretary calls, and then decides to 'roll up her sleeves' to help complete the order. Janice wonders if she's getting bored in the 'Throne Room'! Just before starting work, Linda tells the girls that they'll have to work the weekend - 'We either pull together, or sink together. Your choice!'

Eileen comes home to find Jason there. Jason tells her about the letter and Eileen is delighted, but Jason is less than pleased about having had to beg on the phone to the organisers of the training course and blames his Mum for not delivering the letter to him on time. Eileen counters with the fact that, since he'll be 18 next week, it's time for him to take some responsibility for his own life.

Gail's house. Todd is on the PC, in a chat room. Candice looks bored. Sarah asks about chat rooms and Todd shows her what to do. There appears a private message for 'Ricky' (Todd) from 'Posy' in Canada. Sarah asks about chat rooms and Candice and Todd exchange knowing looks!

In the pub, Emma tells Curly that she's bored with her 'light duties' in the Police. She orders a large gin and tonic, then changes her order to a lemonade. Eileen tells Janice that she misses Jason - life moves so fast and your kids grow up and leave, and then what are you left with? She tells Janice that, once Toyah goes, all you'll have left is years with Les. Depressing, isn't it?

Back at Gail's house, on the PC, 'Nicole' gets a message from 'Weasel' for a private chat. Candice is bored, again. Todd shows 'Nicole' how to reply in a private chat room.

Mike gets home. Linda tells him she was worried. No need. She tells him that she's been on Bobbi's machine all day, but he couldn't care less. All he wants is to have a rest, and a few whiskies.

In the pub, Audrey tells Maxine to have a good holiday. Emma apologises to Maxine for being so curt with her earlier, and she'll pop round to get the details of the cat's meals and so on. Still friends! Emma suggests to Curly that Ashley and Maxine should be their child's Godparents. Curly just wants Emma to know that he wants to be totally involved with the birth.

At Mike's house, Linda announces that, since they obviously can't talk through their differences, she'll check into a hotel. Mike doesn't care what she does - she's just a 'back-street slut'. Linda appeals for a second chance, but Mike is still grieving for Alma.

Roy and Hayley discuss the subterfuge, and lies, about Wayne's arrival at their flat. Roy is sorry, but says that there was no other way. While they're talking, Wayne appears in the background and overhears their rather heated dispute with Hayley calling Roy a liar. Wayne flees into his bedroom and Hayley follows him.

K Richard Whitbread

In my part of the UK the weather was wonderful, the sun shone, the sky was blue and we had a pre-arranged trip to Thorpe Park - a theme park with the usual selection of rides. We have had a great day and it seems a pity to be going to work tomorrow.

And over in Weatherfield we return from the limited storyline of the last couple of weeks to a more multi-stranded sequence of events as the soap returns to normality and we leave behind being issue driven (at least briefly). Tonight's events are sponsored by Cadbury's Snack.

Written by Julie Gearey, directed by Anne Ross Muir.

At the Quays Mike is fully dressed for work, although it transpires later that it is Sunday - suit the lot and he asks Linda why she is still there. She implies she is staying. Mike reminds her that if the order (to Harvey) does not ship then they are out of business. Linda knows how serious it is - the girls are up for it and they will move things. She tells him to trust her and he throws it back in her face. He asks if she is travelling with him or taking her own car. They travel together.

Roy is checking that Wayne has had enough breakfast, before the latter goes to pack his homework - he will be spending the day working with David Platt on various tasks (now excuse me but can anyone see David and Wayne even talking to each other let alone working on their homework together) using the Platt computer. Hayley tries to depart for work but Roy stops her - they need to sort this out. Hayley tells Roy that she does not want to revert to sending her life telling a lie and what he has done is wrong. He lied to her and now they have to lie to their friends.

Shelley bumps into Toyah outside the corner shop and they exchange words - Toyah says she simply wanted to get out of the house. Shelley crosses over to the Kabin and talks to Norris and asks if he will put up a poster advertising bingo in the Rovers. Anthony wanders out of the Kabin saying goodbye to Rita and Norris asks after the book fair he is attending. Norris does not agree to displaying the poster. Apparently Norris does not approve of bingo. Norris is convinced he can hear Anthony's phone ringing but the latter cannot hear it and he departs.

Steve is walking Karen to work - they should have had a lie-in - but she wants to keep her job. The rest of the girls arrive in the background as Steve and Karen kiss and Janice notices early wedded bliss - and says it must be love. Karen puts on a very happy look and agrees that it must. Mike arrives and gives the girls a short sharp talk. This is an emergency and they had better give of their best or their next meeting will be at the job centre. Linda (spin doctor extra-ordinaire) explains that Mike really means that they are both very grateful for them all coming in on a Sunday. Janice points out the double edged standard of 2 days' closure followed by weekend working - poor management. It is noted that Hayley is not to be seen.

Eileen and Dennis are having a nice quiet Sunday. Todd is at his father's and they have the house to themselves. Briefly Jason thunders through the door carrying a box which theoretically contains his worldly belongings (which must weigh almost nothing). He is home and he gets a few sharp words from Dennis on behaving properly with his mother. Eileen hopes that they have not had words - Dennis assures Eileen he knows how to handle Jason.

Norman (Curly) is pushing paper and Emma is reading baby magazines. He reckons the paperwork is useless. Emma throws him a booklet on breast feeding for beginners and Norman checks his chest - he cannot be much help in that department. But he reminds Emma that he wants to share equally in bringing up their child - from the start and all the way through. Norman suggests that Emma does not have to give up her job. He has been thinking - Emma could go back to work and Norman could stay at home and be a house-husband. Emma laughs ... but perhaps.

Steve walks into Underworld. He has booked a table for Karen at the new Italian for early this evening. Linda overhears and says there will be little chance - they are a machinist down and it looks as if they will be working all night. Janice observes that some people have happy marriages and it is obvious that Mike and Linda are not at the moment. Linda says they are fine. Steve is almost frog-marched out. No-one leaves the factory until they are finished.

Back at Norman's Emma is worried that he does not think she will be a good mum. Norman re-assures her that she will be good. But he has been thinking about the future. He missed an awful lot of Alice and he does not want to repeat missing everything. And anyway being a policewoman is a career. And anyway he has been at Freshco for years, profits, budgets. Emma realises that Norman has it all worked out - he thought it all through.

Back at the Croppers they are about to see Wayne off when his mother arrives. Wayne is obviously pleased to see her but she insists he departs and then she turns on Roy and Hayley. She hands back the envelope containing the money and asks who they think they are. Wayne is not for sale, he is not a piece of meat or an item in a shop. After the break tempers calmed she accepts a drink from a bustling Hayley and she explains that Alex had not intended to tell her about the cash - but after a few drinks he let it slip. Sheila is concerned about Wayne and so are Roy and Hayley. Sheila reckons that Alex is not that bad - but he simply does not love Wayne. Alex is a good man - but with little luck in his life and he was also ill-treated by his father. Roy points out that does not justify his actions - but Sheila is convinced that Alex is trying to change - but it is very difficult. Alex does not know how to be with children. Roy does not think that men like that ever change. Hayley suggests another course of action - Sheila should take the money and Wayne and leave Alex. But she cannot - she cannot leave Alex - she loves him.

Rita is drinking solo in the Rovers - Anthony has not returned from the book fair. Shelley observes that it is typical of men - selfish and always serving their own interests first. She has seen it all. ?? returns behind the bar and finds Duggie who has just emerged from reading the papers - she is busting a gut. Apparently Betty has phoned in sick. (Betty phone in sick - the poorest written line this evening - can anyone imagine Betty pulling a sickie - she would be in come hell or highwater - the only think that would keep Betty at home would be death!). Anyway Toyah overhears the conversation and volunteers to work the shift - she would only have to go home and listen to Les moaning. Duggie accepts reluctantly and asks if she is sure? Has she forgotten how to work behind the bar? No - it seems normal. And Duggie says he is glad to have her back and plants a kiss on her forehead. She gives a big smile and moves off to serve a customer.

Sheila knows that Roy and Hayley do not believe her. She is semi-crying when Wayne returns - he has done everything including his history project. She notes that it will not be the same without him. He says he will come home with her but she shakes her head. But she says No - stay where you are. He is worried about her. But she lies and says that things are easier when he is not there, Wayne rushes off to his bedroom and slams the door - Sheila says they have got what they wanted.

Jason is licking the plate clean and dumps it on the floor. Dennis walks in suggests he should put it in the kitchen (Quite right too. This evening I had to tell d#2 to do the washing up from the cooking she and fianc had done - they should not need telling). Jason does not want a lecture and mimes the obvious lines. Dennis gives him a piece of his mind. Either Jason behaves or he will have to answer to Dennis. Jason initially is not worried but Dennis intends to look after Eileen and if that means sorting out Jason then he will do so. Jason is somewhat surprised by this.

Sheila intends to depart and Roy is with Wayne. Hayley says it was a brave thing to do. She knows it is far better for Wayne to be with the Croppers. She knows she is not the best mum in the world - but she knows Wayne will be happy with them. Hayley hands her the money - they both know that Alex would be unhappy if it was missing. And Hayley says (perhaps prophetically?) that if Sheila ever needs anywhere that is safe then she is always welcome with them. Sheila leaves.

Linda is observing the work and Mike knows they are still a long way from reaching the target. In the background Janice reckons that the marriage is over - 10 on the divorce courts by Christmas, then reckons it is such a safe bet that she ups the odds to 20.

Dennis gives Jason a can. Dennis thanks him for doing the washing up. Eileen walks in and reckons they are like the Waltons. Jason says he is glad to be home for his 18th birthday and the party. And what party is this asks Eileen - just a few mates and a few beers. So Eileen does not have to dress up as a clown and provide ice creams. Dennis says he would pay for that. Jason gets his party. Eileen is just glad he is home.

Roy and Hayley are discussing Sheila's home life. It cannot be nice - but it has made Hayley realise how lucky she is to have Roy. Hayley apologises for what she said before. At least he did it for the right reasons. Hayley needs to get to work - and what will she tell Baldwin. That she had a headache. Roy observes that will be a lie. She knows - but it will be worth it.

At the Rovers Rita is having a drink with Norris - but no sign yet of Anthony. Norris is talking about Bingo - he is warming to the idea. Linda and Janice arrive in the Rovers and find Toyah behind the bad and both congratulate her on her return to work. They order a number of non-alcoholic drinks.

Elsewhere in the Rovers Norman and Emma are still discussing his suggestion. With her overtime she earns more than he does and if he does not have a job then he will have more time for his council work, much of which he can do around looking after the baby. She smiles and agrees - it seems great in theory.

Finally Anthony arrives - he has had a shock. Amanda has been trying to get hold of him all day. Rita makes light of Amanda at her tricks again but Anthony says it is serious - Isabelle is dead.

Cue music and titles.

Observations: a) Shelley is a wonderful invention - moves the storylines along but rarely has one herself (so far). b) Sheila - impossibly glamourous with that haircut. However I have a feeling we shall see more of her c) I hope Duggie is feeling no more than a fatherly interest in Toyah?

See you all next week.

K Richard Whitbread

Todd is buying a birthday card for his brother Jason's 18th birthday. Jason comes rushing into the shop and jokes with him.

Anthony tells Rita how upset he is at the passing of Isabelle. Anthony is wearing a black tie (instead of his usual bow ties). Norris tells Rita that every cloud has a silver lining and that Anthony won't have to get divorced now.

Hayley finishes off the order in the factory and Mike brings out bottles of champagne.

Roy discusses with Wayne that his mother still does love him and wants him. Roy discusses his favourite subject in school. Roy's favourite was woodwork. Wayne goes off to school. Hayley thinks Hayley seems a bit down.

Jason invites Toyah to his birthday party. She asks if she can invite a friend. He thinks it would be another girl, but is disappointed when she says it would be a guy.

Linda asks Mike now that the order has been completed that they can make a fresh start. Mike says he will handle one step at a time.

Toyah invites Sam to the party.

Hayley tells Roy that she thinks she understands why Wayne was down. He has wet the bed.

Mike gets a phone call from Rubin. He has cancelled the order. He also says he doesn't want anything to do with Baldwin's company again. Mike tells Linda that without the order the company is ruined. Linda tries to apologise but Mike is not interested. He thinks he must have been crazy to let let her run the company.

Les and Jack wind up Duggie about the bingo he is organising. Les wants the job of bingo caller.

Mike tells Linda that if he doesn't sell the order, the girls will get their P45s (unemployment cards).

Norris suggests to Duggie an alternative game for the future - chess.

Sarah and Candice talk about the guys they have met in the chat rooms on the internet.

After following Duggie around and yelling out bingo calls, Duggie is "persuaded" to let Les have the job.

Tyrone and Jack laugh at Maria's expense as she is having to do the cooking that night as Vera is working overtime in the cafe.

Wayne said he was worried that Roy and Hayley would send him back after the accident. They have no intentions of doing so.

Mike has checked the company books and says he will have to make some girls redundant.

Sarah wants Gail to babysit for her, but Gail is going out that night.

Sarah logs into the chat room.

Linda tells the girls that Rubin has cancelled the order. Janice wants to know why. Mike says it doesn't matter why, but some are going to be laid off.

Martin Rosen

Janice, Hayley, Karen and Bobbi are in the café wondering why the Reuben order was cancelled. Bobbi thinks she'll soon lose her job under the last in first out principle.

Todd gives Jason a stress ball for his birthday. Eileen can't believe her baby is 18 and gives him a polo shirt. He hasn't got a card from his Dad Tony and goes to work.

Candice and Sarah are in the Kabin. Sarah is very tired as she was in the chat room til late. She hasn't told him about Bethany. She's thinking of not going to the party but Candice tells her she needs to see real people. Anthony calls in on his way to the funeral. He doesn't want Rita subjected to Isabel's family and friends.

Tyrone is ironing. Maria is pleased but warns him not to ruin her clothes. Then she realises Tyrone only washed his own. Right, she won't be doing anything for him from now on.

There's a black cloud over the factory. Karen has a quiet word with Linda who assures her she'll see her right over the job. Bobbi wonders if Ryan will be sacked.

Jason and Dennis arrive in the Rovers for a birthday lager. He checks Toyah will be at the party and is a bit disappointed to hear she'll be bringing Sam. Les is all hyped up about being the bingo caller. It could be the start of something big. They'll need the extra money with the problems at the factory.

The girls are very anxious, waiting for the axe to fall. Discussions in the office identify the last 3 hires. But that would include Karen, she's a good worker. Linda suggests they put names in a hat, but Mike's not prepared to take the risk of losing Hayley. He makes the announcement. This is no reflection on your work. You'll get excellent references and a small financial compensation. Goodbye Jean, Bobbi and Karen. Karen gives Linda a look. Bobbi is distraught.

Eileen is in the kitchen when Kirk starts blasting out music. He's checking the sound levels. He tells Jason he'll definitely pull tonight, birds always go for the DJ. Not when you've got a face like a bag of spanners, says Jason. Eileen calls him to the phone. He returns beaming. That was the Athletic Federation. They want him to go to Budapest! And it's free!

Janice tries to comfort Bobbi, who's crying. Hayley appeals to Mike to let her go instead. She's got the café, Bobbi has nothing. He can always take her on again when things pick up. He refuses. Karen goes to Linda. Thanks for nothing. Why should we pay because you put it about? She might just tell the girls why they lost their jobs. Linda tells her to wait a few days while she works on Mike.

Interval

Eileen leaves the house and warns them to keep out of the bedrooms. Kirk and Todd arrive with the beer as Candice and Sarah turn up. She gives the girls some advice: No drinking and keep away from Kirk, though I probably don't need to tell you that. They giggle. Dennis turns up on a motorbike for Jason. He's delighted, Eileen's horrified.

Maria and Tyrone have taken their laundry argument to the Rovers. They're supposed to be sharing the housework. She won't skivvy after him like Vera does Jack. Karen has been shopping to cheer herself up. Bobbi's still wondering what happened to the order and this time Karen tells her. Linda was carrying on with Reuben and Mike caught them at it. That selfish cow's got a lot to answer for. Bobbi's stunned.

Over at the party, Todd talks to Sarah as Candice works the room. He extols her virtues to Sarah. She's gorgeous and has loads of confidence. No-one is impressed with the music. Jason tells Kirk it's minging (youth culture alert). Sam is chatting to Toyah. He tells her he thinks a lot of her. She says he's dead special and a good mate, but then goes for drinks to stop the conversation.

Anthony returns to Rita's after an awful day. There were close friends at the funeral, friends of both of them, and they wouldn't look him in the eye. Only his sister stood by him, she'd flown in from New Zealand. She's invited him to his niece's wedding next month and he's thinking of staying on. But he's worried what it would do to his relationship with Rita. Would you come with me? Rita doesn't look delighted.

It's smoochies time at the party. Sarah goes to chat to Kirk but falls on the decks. He calls her a stupid cow. She wanders into the kitchen and throws her arms round Sam. She's clearly drunk and he's concerned but she wanders off again. He goes back to Toyah who's chatting to another lad. He gets him to leave and then kisses her. She's upset but at this point Jason drives his motorbike into the living room.

Eileen is talking to Dennis about this in the Rovers. She can't believe he did it, they're deathtraps. He should have consulted her. He assures her he'll make sure Jason knows how to ride it properly. Vera and Jack arrive to get some peace and quiet. She's worried about Tyrone and Maria and blames Jack for setting a bad example. Janice has heard the news about Linda. Les says she won't get away with it. At this point, she walks in with Mike and Les decides to give her a piece of his mind. (Bad idea Les). He starts by calling her a slapper. You drop your drawers and it's them girls who lose out. Shut up, says Mike. Les advises Mike to keep her on a tighter lead. If you were half a man you'd give those girls their jobs back and sort her out instead. Mike shouts across the room. Bobbi, you've got your job back. Janice, you're sacked instead. And you can blame your bird-brained husband. They leave.

Sarah throws up on the bike. Sam decides to take her home and starts leading her out. Todd and Jason have a fight over bringing the bike in. Sarah kisses Sam. He says she's drunk. She starts to cry and says she'll be alone forever. Toyah leaves. Sarah throws up in the hall. The fight breaks up and Jason gets on the bike again. Kirk tries to clear up the oil on the carpet and only succeeds in spreading it around. Eileen arrives and clears the room in one second flat. She turns to glare at Dennis.

Kathy Brown

Well it maybe Sunday evening but this week I am writing the Friday night update - apologies for the slight delay but that is the way it goes - does anyone else want to volunteer to help out?

This evening's events in Weatherfield are sponsored by Cadbury's Marble.

Written by David Lane, directed by Colin Cant

We open this evening in the Street with the Battersbys sitting outside Underworld. Janice wants Les to apologise even though he is right. So when Mike and Linda arrive Les is forced to apologise to Mike and then separately to Linda. Les asks for Janice's job back but the apology has had no effect. Les has humiliated himself for nowt.

At the caff Edna is asking who is going to attend the bingo in the Rovers. Vera reckons she is OK, Roy will not be going. Janice arrives and Vera gives her a free cup of tea. Karen reminds Janice of a win the former had - but they shared 250 each - at the bingo club. Janice spent it on rent and electricity bills.

Janice chases Linda into the Kabin and asks again about her job. Linda tells Janice that she has no influence on Mike at the moment and there is little chance of success - after all she did not enjoy having her private life announced in the Rovers. Linda departs and Rita asks if Janice wants anything - a roll of tape for our Les's mouth - but it is too late now. In the background Anthony arrives and Rita tells him that Janice would go to New Zealand. Anthony still thinks Rita will be joining him down under.

At the Rovers Les is getting ready for the evening's entertainment and Shelley offers to pull the numbers from the wastepaper bin which he has labelled up ready. Sam arrives and talks to Toyah and she is obviously still nervous. She merely wants a friendship and offers to go out for a drink or the pictures.

David and Wayne are playing on the computer. Candice says "Wayne, Wayne go away and don't come again another day". The boys are reluctant to leave the computer but decide to head for the caff and freebies. The girls take over the computer and Sarah logs into the chat room. PJ says Candice, TJ corrects Sarah. Candice spells out that TJ might not be all that he seems but Sarah is not heeding the warnings.

Eileen delivers a helmet to Jason and he promises to be careful riding the bike in future.

Mr Hartnell arrives to speak to Roy and they go upstairs. Roy is worried because Wayne might re-appear.

After the break Vera is serving David and Wayne in the caff - she then sends Vera to get proper marker pens from the Kabin for the bingo. Wayne suggests going upstairs but Vera says they cannot take a drink up. David suggest Vera should have one herself.

Mr Hartnell has good news - they are likely to be cleared by the investigation. But Roy has decided that they do not want to pursue fostering and Mr Hartnell is upset and almost storms out.

Gail arrives and joins David and Wayne - why are they not playing on the computer. David tells her that Sarah and Candice are using it.

Mr Hartnell comes downstairs and Wayne dives under the table before he is spotted. Roy assures him that Hayley feels much the same as he does and Mr Hartnell departs disappointed at losing foster parents. Wayne picks himself up and Gail asks why the social worker did not want to see him. Roy says there were other problems - she seems surprised.

At the Rovers they are getting ready for bingo. Edna joins Eileen and Dennis who suggests champagne if Edna wins. Edna declines - she knew a woman who did that and died of alcoholic poisoning - and then had the best funeral money could buy. Dennis acknowledges Eileen's earlier comment about Edna being the angel of death.

Janice has spent the day helping the bingo king paint the number on his balls. Karen again reminds Janice about the time they won and shared the winnings.

Dennis is fed up with Edna's bad news and finds an excuse to depart although Eileen insists on a large drink before he goes.

Les starts calling out the numbers with the usual descriptions. Vera is playing six cards per game. Sam is being helped by Toyah. Vera tells him to stop messing around and just call out the numbers.

Jason arrives on his motorcycle watched by Sarah and Candice. Although looking perky earlier both Sarah and Candice now appear to have hangovers. Candice gets on the back of the bike when Dennis comes out of the house. Dennis gives him a right telling off - including pushing the bike around the back.

Anthony arrives back at the flat with a new suitcase where he meets Rita. He has bought a big one.

Sam wins the first game - to the disgust of the regular players. The next game is the jackpot - 150 smackeroonies. Jack keeps complaining that he cannot hear the numbers.

Bobbi says it was awful in the factory - but Janice observes that at least she was at work. Steve tells them to get ready for the next game - after all it is almost a week's money. Janice cannot afford it so Karen tells Steve to buy them all another drink and a card. He asks to be reminded why - because she loves him.

Rita and Anthony are having a drink - but not a quiet one. Rita has decided she is not going to New Zealand - it is just too difficult. Anthony asks her to follow in a few weeks and she agrees it will not be too hard.

Wayne asks why Mr Hartnell had visited but Roy has not told Hayley yet - so Wayne departs to do his homework and Roy brings her up to date. He has told Mr Hartnell that they did not want to foster. Hayley cannot believe they have some to this. She is sure they will be found out. And when they are found out Wayne will go home or into care. Roy acknowledges they have burned their bridges - it can never be like it was before.

Les is calling the numbers - Jack cannot hear them. Finally Shelley pulls out "9" as she says to Les. He looks closely and calls "6". Janice shouts house but there is a dispute over the number. Janice is ecstatic and Karen is told not to worry by Steve because she and Janice share. Except that Janice make a decision that this is different - this is not the bingo club - and she is keeping all the money. Karen points out that Steve bought the ticket but Janice is adamant - the money is all hers. Karen calls Janice a bitch.

No commentary tonight - back to Sundays next week.

K Richard Whitbread

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