Claire is hanging out her washing and promising Josh they could have tea in the garden later when she's left open-mouthed by the gruesome sight of a half-asleep Darryl emerging from his new abode in the garden, half dressed, yawning and scratching!

In the Barlow residence, Deirdre is sitting smoking at the table. Ken comes in the front door with the dog, and asks her if she got any sleep last night. "Sleep? What's that?" she answers bitterly. Kindly, Ken suggests he cooks her breakfast but she says she's not hungry. When he tries to tempt her with her favourite, a mushroom omelet she snaps at him not to talk to her as if she's simple. "I'll eat when I'm ready," she tells him. Just then Blanche comes in coughing, and complaining about the smoke. Deirdre remarks that Tracy has said the food in prison is dreadful and breakfast is the worst. Ken says he's more worried about Deirdre at the moment and tries again to tempt her to eat, this time with tea and toast. She gives in. "All right love, thank you," she says, but the mood is swiftly broken by Blanche spraying air freshener everywhere. "For God's sake Mother, give it rest!" shouts Deirdre, snatching the can off her. Ken tries to calm down the situation and tells her they've got through worse than this and survived. "Worse than this? When?" Deirdre demands to know. He quietly reminds her of when Susan died. "When Susan died?" she shouts, "you hadn't seen her for donkey's years. You were about as much use to her as a father as you were to Tracy!" Even Blanche is shocked by this venomous outburst. "That's an evil thing to say," she scolds. "Oh sorry Mother, I forgot, that's your job isn't it!" yells Deirdre and storms out of the front door, leaving Ken and Blanche aghast.

There's a very frosty atmosphere between Paul and Carla at breakfast time, and Paul asks Ryan if he's like a lift to school. He says he'll catch the bus, so Paul hands him a twenty pound note to get something for his dinner. "What do you have for your dinner, Ryan, lobster?" asks Carla. Paul leaves, ignoring Carla's request for a goodbye kiss. "What's up with you two?" asks Ryan. "Nothing," says Carla, "I just put his cds back in the wrong box, you know what he's like."

Gail and Claire are chatting over the garden fence, with Jerry's garden between them. They ponder over the fact that Darryl seems to be living in the wooden ‘shed' (although with a veranda and two front windows it seems to be more of a summer-house). "There's no plumbing," says Gail, "where does he go to the loo?" "I dread to think," says Claire. Just then the boy in question comes out of the kitchen door with a mug of tea in his hands and a magazine rolled up under his arm. "Morning ladies!" he says as he wanders back into his wooden home. Then the sound of loud rock music fills the air, much to Gail and Claire's dismay. "It's my little haven out here in summer!" wails Gail.

Ken is in the Kabin, talking to Rita about the situation at home. "It's not just them inside serves the sentence," says Rita. Ken agrees, and says he could almost forgive Tracy for what she did to Charlie, it's what she's done to them and Amy…. Rita reckons that Blanche will be taking it all a lot harder than she's letting on, too.

Just then Rita's friend comes in and asks Ken how things are. His answer suggests they could be better. She then tells him a tale that her grandmother told her when she was little, the punch line being that all things must pass, the good and the bad.

Liz overhears Vernon on the phone, turning down a tour. She isn't happy and persuades him to call his mate back and accept. "Don't worry about me, I'll keep myself busy," she tells him. (I don't think though, that they share the same idea of busy!)

Liam is just seeing a customer off the premises when Carla arrives. He asks her where Paul is, but she doesn't know, saying that he left at the usual time this morning. She tells Liam she's just come to pick her stuff up, that should make him happy.

Ken is in the Rovers, discussing the situation at home with Emily. He feels that Deirdre has put a wall between them, because she blames him, herself and everybody, except Tracy. Liz comes over and asks how Deirdre is. She tells him that Deirdre will come around, she's talked to Liz about it because she's had the experience of Jim being in prison. "Give it time," says Emily. Ken says he wishes they could get away from it all for a while, as everything in the house reminds them of Tracy. "Then why don't you?" asks Emily.

Michelle sees Violet texting Gary, the boy she met recently. "Perhaps I shouldn't?" says Violet, "I don't want to come across as too eager." Michelle makes clucking noises, "You're a chicken," she says. Just then Steve comes in and Violet explains why Michelle is making those noises. "Well, I'm just saying that if you like someone you should just go for it…." says Michelle, looking at Steve and realising what she's just said.

Back at the Barlow's, Ken is suggesting to Deirdre that they go away together for a short time. "You want us to go on holiday?" Deirdre is incredulous, as if Ken had just suggested they dance naked down the Street! Ken quickly tells her he's not suggesting two weeks in Majorca, but maybe a visit to Peter and Adam, or a caravan in the lakes, somewhere to get away from being constantly reminded of what's happened. "I don't run away from my problems," says Deirdre, icily. Blanche wanders in, looking for her fish cakes. "For heaven's sake," says Ken, exasperated, "can't you see we're trying to talk?" Deirdre leaps to her mother's defence. "Don't speak to her like that!" she snarls. "Our marriage is crumbling beneath us," says Ken, "and she's worrying about fish cakes!" Blanche says she'll open a tin of soup later. Deirdre decides to go back to work, although it's her half day. Ken asks what happened to not running away from her problems. Deirdre turns on him. "Don't you get it?" she yells, "over and over you refused to get involved in what was going on over the road!" He asks if she really thinks he could have stopped what happened. "I don't know," says Deirdre, and tells him she'll never know because he never even tried. She marches towards the front door. "If you go now," yells Ken, at the end of his tether, "I won't be here when you get back!" She turns round, "Oh that's you in a nutshell – all talk!" She slams out of the door.

Jerry sees Claire struggling out of the front door with the pushchair and lends a hand. She asks if she can have a word, but just then Darryl walks up. Jerry tells him to get a move on, he's late for his shift and then asks Claire what she wanted. "Nothing," she says, and hurries off.

A sight to behold, Vernon walks round the corner carrying a newspaper. He's dressed in long shorts, a baseball cap and a hooded top. Seeing Liz walking along, he throws down the paper and jogs up behind her as if he's been training. She asks if he's been past the Wethy Arms, he's been gone ages and he stinks like a brewery and he has crisp crumbs down his front. He's been to meet his mate about the tour. "We had to meet somewhere," he tells her.

Blanche tells Ken that if he keeps making empty threats, Deirdre will walk all over her. "You have to stand up to her, be a man Kenneth!" she says.

Violet is still messing about with her mobile phone. "Ring him," says Michelle. Just then Carla comes in and Michelle thanks her for having Ryan the night before. Carla tells her that she doesn't know where Paul is. "Well good, he can stay disappeared for all I care," says Michelle. Steve comes up then and puts a bag of change down on the counter. They have a very polite, very awkward conversation and then Steve wanders off. Michelle confesses to Carla that she's told him about Dean and everything. "Who else have you told?" says Carla, horrified. Michelle assures her she hasn't told anyone else, and that Steve was dead nice and actually kissed her. "Well that's good isn't it?" asks Carla, although Michelle's expression tells her otherwise. "It was awful," says Michelle, "we've been treading on eggshells ever since."

Blanche finds Ken sitting thinking at the table. "Still here?" she goads him. "I won't be here when you get back – that's a laugh, I'm surprised you haven't hoovered through for her. No wonder she treats you the way she does." Ken stares at Blanche for a minute and then gets up and goes upstairs.

Paul arrives outside the factory and asks Liam if he can stay at his house that night. Liam tells him to go home and have a barney with his wife, so Paul turns the car around and drives off.

Ken comes downstairs with a suitcase and puts on his coat. Blanche, seeming shocked, asks him where he's going. He tells her he can't stay there while things are the way they are. "But this is your home," she says, "I only meant you to stand up to Deirdre, I was goading you that's all." Ken tells her he knows. "I'm sorry I shouted at you earlier. This must be as hard for you as for any of us." Blanche starts to cry. "It's a nightmare," she sobs, "my whole family, shattered." Ken tells her it's for the best and asks her to look after Deirdre for him. "I'm extremely fond of you, you know that don't you?" he says, and kisses her tenderly on the cheek. Then he turns and goes out of the front door.

In the pub, Michelle asks Steve if he'd like a drink. As she goes to get it Liz asks him what's going on. "Nothing," he says. Over at a table, Sean and Violet are pondering over the lack of success with their love lives. "You've just hit a dry spell," says Sean, "I should know, my dry spells are longer than the Sahara." Violet reminds him about Sonny. "At least he thought you were fit. The way I'm feeling at the moment I'd be happy if a dog humped my leg," she says.

Deirdre is chatting to Liz, telling her how she wandered around and went to the pictures, where she fell asleep. She tells Liz how she saw Vernon out jogging. Liz tells her he's getting fit for the forthcoming tour. "You don't seem bothered," says Deirdre. Liz tells her she's sure she'll find ways to keep herself amused while he's gone. "Derek?" asks Deirdre.

Michelle wanders over to the table where Sean and Violet are sitting, and confesses that she's so embarrassed about what happened with Steve her toes are curling. Violet tells her she must talk to him, or else she'll lose him as a mate as well.

Deirdre goes home to find Blanche sitting in the dark. "Where's Ken?" she asks. "Gone," says Blanche, and explains that he's packed his case and gone. "You needn't act so surprised," she tells her daughter, "he said as much at dinner time." Then she says she's having an early night. "That enough space for you?" she asks as she walks out.

Anne Logan.

At last! An episode of the Street that includes an apostrophe lesson! Which make it one of the best Friday episodes ever. I hope all you apostrophiliacs out there agree.

It's morning and Blanche is in the kitchen when a disheveled Deirdre wanders in in her dressing gown, glancing about in the way that I do when I can't remember where I've put my glasses. Except that she's lost Ken, not her bifocals. "It's no good looking for him," Blanche points out. Deirdre says they can't keep doing this. I think she meant breaking up with Ken. She's blaming herself for giving him so much stick over these past few weeks. I should think so, too. Blanche still doesn't think it's right that Ken just walked out. Deirdre's worried because Ken took nothing with him. Blanche thinks he'll be back before his evening paper gets there.

James Brown will never die as long as the Mortons have a stereo to blast him out of. There's the sound of hammering and very loud James Brown coming from the shed in their back yard. But it's not young Darryl. It's Jerry. He sees Gail and Claire doing their disapproving Norah Batty impressions either side of the shed and chooses to believe they're James Brown fans, telling them the young kids don't appreciate the Godfather of Soul. They refuse his offer of a cuppa, so he suggests they have a shed warming, with a little bit of James, since they're both into it. "Then I can show you my Moonwalk," he says. Seeing Jerry do a passable impression of Michael Jackson is something else! He goes inside. "Shed warming?!" asks an incredulous Claire. "Weren't we supposed to be telling him off?" asks Gail.

Inside, Jerry does a bit of Sex Machine (his moves really are good), but no-one's looking. Then he spots Granddad and stops anyway. It's a fairly typical morning scene for a household with a few kids, though Darryl is trying to persuade his twin sister to claim she was driving when he was flashed by a speed camera. He doesn't want any more points on his licence because he's in danger of losing it and Mel's licence is clean. She refuses.

Ken is breakfasting in a B&B and refusing seconds on a big cooked breakfast. The landlady tells him no-one staying there has ever lost weight and she's been running a B&B for 30 years. She asks if Ken's in town on business and he confesses that he's Weatherfield born and bred. "The less rough end, obviously," she says.

In the knicker factory, Paul's mobile beeps at him. He takes a look at the screen and rejects the call. He asks Liam if he can kip on Liam's settee tonight. After a bit of protest, Liam gives him the front door key.

Mel is my new heroine. She's outside the takeaway with a bottle of white-out, covering up the apostrophe someone's put in "paining". "I wouldn't mind," she tells Darryl, "but ‘pain' already means more than one. Paine apostrophe S means belonging to many pain." One pain is actually pain. "One speeding offence means many points on Darryl's licence, but does his sister care? No," he points out. Mel smiles at him. "Good twin, evil twin," she says, pointing at herself and then at her twin. He moans at her, but she says that if he doesn't shut up her first offence could well be assault! He stomps off as Jodie comes in. Mel tells her what Darryl wanted and Jodie can't see why Mel won't do it. "I just can't," she says. "So now you've got me thinking there's summat up with you as well as him," Jodie says.

In the Rovers, Betty brings over a cheese pie, from Leanne, and a "salad on brown" for Janice. She asks Janice if she's sure she can't squeeze in some chips. "There'll be nothing left of you soon." Janice, however, is determined to keep losing weight. Though she says you can lose as much weight worrying as you can dieting. Leanne looks daggers at her and points out that if she buys Janice a butty for her dinner, it doesn't mean Janice is selling her soul to vice and corruption. "Now get it down your gob and shut your face." Liam comes in and Leanne invites him to sit down. Janice goes off to "wash her hands" and the flirting starts. Liam invites Leanne for a beer and a kebab and Leanne agrees to meet him in the Rovers at teatime.

Ken walks along a busy high street and goes into a salon called Hair Design. Denise is saying to someone, "Sandra, when Karat says she wants highlights, she doesn't mean Stockpot versus Rochdale highlights. She means United versus Barcelona." Denise is the only person in the whole of the UK who hasn't heard in advance that Ken is going to seek her out. She suddenly looks as if she's seen a ghost when she spots him. "Well, if you're trying to surprise me, you're doing a good job!" she growls in a low voice. Ken asks if he can see her for ten minutes. "What? After ten years?" She takes him up to her flat above the shop.

Paul comes out of the corner shop carrying at least eight, perhaps 12, cans of beer, just as Carla swoops around the corner in her car. She expresses her disappointment that he didn't step into the road so she could run him over. In fact, to prove she's a good wife, she suggests he drinks the beer first so he won't feel it.

Ken sits in Denise's flat while she paces anxiously. He thanks her for the letter she sent after Tracy's trial. He says she's done well for herself and she says she did it all on her own. She knew he'd be in touch eventually. "It's just something I tried not to think about. Ken explains that his current circumstances mean he'll have to reduce the amount he's paying into Daniel's trust fund. "You could have told me that over the phone," Denise points out. There is something else. Ken wants to see Daniel. Denise wants to know whether he means he wants to see what Daniel looks like, or wants to see him on a regular basis. Ken says that depends on what happens and on whether Denise says it's all right in the first place. Denise asks why now. He says he just needs it to happen. "And do you think Daniel needs it?" Denise asks.

Paul, complete with his pile of cans, though they now seem to be in a single slab, orders a second short from Betty, and one for herself. She asks if the cans are in case they run short. Paul explains that he'd planned a quiet afternoon watching the racing at Liam's but felt the afternoon needed a kick start.

Denise tells Ken she doesn't think it's a good idea for him to see Daniel. Ken thinks Daniel would probably like to know more about his father. Denise points that this is the same father who fought for custody of Daniel and when that didn't happen, they haven't seen hide nor hair of him since. "Not even when I wrote to you about Brian clearing off and me moving back to Manchester." She asks him how many lives he's made a mess of by not being able to understand what makes a proper relationship. "Some," he says. "Mine, if I'm honest." Denise agrees that he can see Daniel if Daniel agrees. "But I'm warning you – you hurt him and I'll hurt you."

Cilla's trying to lounge in front of daytime telly when Fizz, Chesney and Sophie march in singing a song from Bugsy Malone. Cilla is really annoyed when their noise makes her miss something on TV and Chesney asks if she remembered to get the flowers. "Yes!" she says in an exasperated tone and stomps into the kitchen. Fizz says there are dress rehearsals all weekend, so if Fizz can run a costume up, the least Cilla could do is find a bunch of plastic flowers. Cilla, bunch of fresh chrysanths in her hand, says: "Plastic?" "I can't use fresh," says Chesney. "They'll get wrecked." Sophie looks at the flowers. "How are they gonna last all week?" "Don't you start," Cilla says defensively. She shoves the flowers into a vase and stomps back to the sofa. "There's a first," Fizz tells her, "you going for summat real when you could have had fake." Fizz takes the kids off to rehearsal.

Ken's back and No 1 but he's not stopping. He's just come for a few clothes. Deirdre suggests that now he's back, he might as well stop. He says no and gives Deirdre his contact details. She's horrified he's stopping in a B&B. As he goes to fetch the clothes, Blanche tells her daughter: "You should be blasting him!" Deirdre tells her to give it a rest.

In the pub, Liam notes that the factory-to-Rovers record has just been broken yet again. Janice asks Kelly how Joanne is, and is told she's still waiting. Kelly, in turn, asks Janice why Liam and Leanne seem so pally. Janice says they can't keep him away. Jerry and Granddad come in. They been summonsed to a family meeting (in the pub??) and the takeaway is locked up while they're away. Mel tells them she's applying to join the police. The menfolk can't believe it. Granddad feels like he's been stabbed through the heart. Darryl says WPC stands for Will Press Charges, "especially against your own brother." Jerry says it isn't the career he would have chosen for her. He says he had her down to take over his empire. Darryl's too thick. "And I'm too smart," Jodie adds. But Jerry says he'll support his kids whatever they want to do. "However misguided," adds Granddad. The March of the Valkyries, then, as Claire and Gail approach the table. But instead of allotting death to men and deciding who will be victorious, they're outsmarted by Jerry, who at the word "shed" invites them to the shedwarming again and hands over money so he can buy them a drink (he's trapped on the inside of the booth). Liam is quite impressed with how dressed up Leanne is for half a mild and a kebab. "You should see me when I'm really trying to impress," she coos. They're interrupted by Paul, slightly drunk...well, quite drunk, really. Leanne's phone goes and she tells Liam she'll have to leave it for tonight. She implies it's work and tells Liam not to wait.

Janice follows her out into the street asking if she's just going to dump Liam like that. Leanne says it'll keep him keener next time.

Deirdre has decided it's time to grovel. She apologises to Ken, but he says she was right. They both need a bit of space. She says that doesn't mean separate houses, but Ken says it's better this way. "Not for me it isn't," she says. "First no Tracy, then no Adam and now no you. How much space do I need?" "You'll be begging him next," says Blanche. "Try not to help, Blanche," Ken says. He says he just needs some time to work out who he is in all this and where he belongs. "You belong here, with me," Deirdre says. "Maybe. Probably. I don't know," he says. "Maybe not. We'll just have to see how we get on, won't we? You know where I am." He turns and goes out the door, leaving Deirdre in tears.

The End

Margaret Car

I was away for the weekend (near Bristol) and was unable to take notes - and have publicized last week my imminent demise I find that ITV are not yet streaming programmes - so my memory and a little help from a certain website will bring this week's Sunday update.

Now I must have missed it - when did Jamie start working for StreetCars? Never mind - when he gets home from a shift for some shut eye he finds Liam on the sofa and Paul coming downstairs. Paul looks fine - and claims he drank a pint of water for each pint of beer - Liam says that 11 was just not possible at three in the morning. Carla turns up looking for Paul but Liam says he is long gone. He tells her to go home and cook Paul a nice Sunday lunch - he will smell it and return. She snaps back at him - clearly things are not well in Connor household at present.

Over the road Claire is commiserating with Gail - neither of them had much sleep due to the noise coming from the shed. Claire thought that Bob Marley had been in the room with her and Gail seemed to think that once upon a time she like No Woman No Cry. Anyway Gail has an idea and invites Claire in.

Kev is meeting the famous Mr Stape at school when Sophie is delivered to a rehearsal. Kev says his wife is really the one for this sort of thing - when he is late home from the pub she makes a real song and dance about it! Mr Stape misses the joke (perhaps deliberately) Kev points out that the real Bugsy Malone was important - and that should not be forgotten. Chesney arrives and introduces his big sister Fiz - who cannot take her eyes off the teacher. She blushes and moves away before the teacher can say anything.

In the Street Leanne is passing and Liam wants to know how the Iberian apartments are selling. Leanne is not talkative but eventually she agrees to meet him in the Rovers at 7 for a pint. Leanne cannot stop - it would seem she has another appointment.

Deirdre and Blanche discuss events. How is that Ken would prefer to throw money (of which he has none) at a B&B rather than being at under his own roof. Blanche points out that he has not had a row with the roof. Blanche says she was trying to smooth things over. A ringing doorbell - has Ken returned - no - it is Gail wanting to know what planning consents are needed for a garden shed (usually none - if it is being used as a garden shed).

At a hotel Leanne tidies her hair, prepares herself and knocks on the door - which is opened by Paul. Each is as surprised as the other - they were not expecting someone they knew. They both say "You" and Leanne then mumbles an "Oh my God!".

She goes into the room and Paul starts on - he claims it is the first time - but the agency had told Leanne he was a regular. And anyway - she is supposed to be into property. They both agree this must never come out and she asks what he is going to do - have a drink followed by a heart attack. She says she will join him for the drink.

Elsewhere strange events are taking place. Ken has returned to Denise's salon and is pleased to be told that Daniel has agreed to see him. Denise gets out some photographs to show Ken which had been taken in Lanzarote. He is a good kid - but building a relationship with him will not be easy. Ken nods his understanding.

At the dress rehearsal Sophie is singing - but Fiz only has eyes for the teacher - she is ignoring the performance completely. And the looks are being returned by the teacher who is not watching much other than Fiz (who like Janice seems to have lost an awful lot of weight - if Cilla gets skinny the cast will disappear).

In the back gardens Ashley measures the shed - how long is it? how deep is it? He shouts measurements at Gail and Claire which get noted down. And does it matter how high? And then the music starts up and Darryl emerges and ambles into the house. Ashley emerges from hiding to find that he cannot get away - his jumper is snagged and Claire shouts at him to take it off - which he does. He jumps the fence and all three duck down as Darryl re-emerges from the house and he sees the jumper, looks at it, unsnags it and takes it into the shed with him. Darryl gone the measuring party stand and laugh. Ashley says it is not funny - it is the sweater Claire's mother gave him for Christmas.

Paul tells Leanne how crazy Liam is. How she is the subject of all of his conversation - and Paul does not think that shacking up with an escort is what is he would do. Paul asks who else knows - Janice she answers. Paul admits he is in no position to judge - but he just needs to get away from Carla sometimes - really just to talk - but as Leanne remarks she gets a pound - or a lot more - every time she has heard that. Paul wants to know how she started this - as she says someone broke her. He asks if Liam can mend her. She answers that Liam is funny and makes her laugh and that is a start. And she does really like him.

As Leanne goes to depart they both talk about giving this sort of thing up. Easy for you says Leanne - a little bit more difficult for me. She tells him he has a beautiful wife and a good business and he needs to be careful. He tells her to be careful as well.

Post rehearsal Fiz talks to the teacher - it seems they lost touch - but both seem to have happy memories. Back in the Rovers Fiz is able to tell Maria about the youth club DJ she used to see. She would miss school to see him. DJ Laserbeam - now John Stape. Reminiscences are truncated as Kirk arrives.

On the other side of the room Paul is apologising to Carla for vanishing. They bicker but Paul offers to make more effort in future. Leanne arrives and Paul is about to buy drinks - but Leanne claims a big headache seeing the whole Connor family leaning on the bar - although she agrees to buy the round. They move to a booth and Paul asks if she has had a successful day. Leanne says it is hard to say. Liam reckons if she keeps working this hard he will soon be able to retire. Carla leads the cheers - and they raise the drinks to their lips. The camera focuses on Leanne looking at Paul - she has no idea if he is able to keep his knowledge to himself.

And so is Kirk looking at the dumpster?

Is Leanne unemployed?

Is the shed simply too big? Or are there other grounds for objecting (like it is being used for residential purposes?

These questions and many more will be answered in future episodes.

K Richard W

This episode of Coronation Street is Written by Peter Whalley, Directed by Terry Dyddgen-Jones, Produced by Steve Frost, Sponsored by Cadburys, CORONATION STREET is copyright ITV productions

Outside Liam asks Janice why her daughter never picks up her phone. Janice says she was in bed and there was no sign of life. Sarah on her phone says she has just left the house and he will see her in 30 seconds. Liz on the phone is asking if they are still ok for later. Jason says he can see her and says he missed her, they both hug. Liam sings outside Leanne's window. She asks what he wants and he says he was wondering what she was doing today.

At the Yard upstairs Sarah tells Jason, Candice's wedding dress was blowing everywhere. She says she wished he were there. Sarah then asks how his mum is. He says she is putting on a brave face. They see Eileen who says she is going back to work and is not going to be miserable and is going to smile at everyone except Gail.

Carla tells Paul she thought they were going to stay in bed. He says once he is up he is up. Carla asks if he is happy. He says he is. She says he seams jumpy and on edge. Carla asks, if there is any thing he is not telling her. He says there is no secret's and he is going into work. She says he will be the only one there.

Barlows - Ken opens the front door. Blanch asks Deirdre if she recognizes the voice. Ken says he has just come for some bits and pieces and goes upstairs. Blanch says he has really come in hope that she will have a kind word for him. Deirdre says he is wasting his time. Blanch says at least Tracy hit her man over the head and that was it.

Duckworth's - Tyrone and Molly come in with shopping. Vera is pleased and says they can go out and Jack can unpack it. Jack says it's his bank holiday too and he can go to the Rovers. Vera says they might want to be on their own and go to Blackpool. Jack asks Tyrone if he wants to go there or if he wants to enjoy himself. Molly says they can go to the Rovers and won't be long.

Barlow's - Ken asks if they are doing anything. Blanch says Deirdre is babysitting. Ken says he is meeting Denise and is getting to see his son. She wrote him a letter of support while Tracy's court case was going on. As he goes Blanch says he is seeing an old flame and asks if that bothers her. Deirdre says he told her so she'd worry about it, so it's not going to.

Outside, Janice asks if Leanne minds her coming. She says no. Janice says if she does start going out with Liam she will have to look for a new job. Leanne tells her to shut up. Janice says she is only saying that, as she is right. Liam opens the door and says he does not mind Janice coming along but sees Paul car at the factory and says he must see what he is doing and goes over.

Factory - Liam says he must like it in here. Paul asks if they can sack the workers and have it like this all the time. Liam says there would be no money. Janice and Leanne come in. Liam says this is the life of a top executive. Liam says he'd want Leanne on the desk with their best underwear. They invite Paul to join them in the Rovers later.

Rover's backroom - Violet is texting on her mobile. Liz reminds her she is going out later and she is in charge. Violet goes and Liz tells Deirdre if only she knew. She says she won't get carried away with Derek as he is a married man and she is almost. Liz says she knows its wrong and asks Deirdre to wish her luck. Deirdre does and Amy blows Liz a kiss goodbye as she goes.

Streetcars - Blanch comes in and Eileen asks what she wants. She says a cab like most people. Eileen says she will have to wait, as there is no one at the moment. Blanch comes in the office and sits down saying she wants to go to the address on the letter. Then says that is her son-in-law's mistress who he had a child with and she is going to surprise them.

Derek's friends place - Liz feels they have broken in. Derek offers her a drink but Liz says he might notice. Derek says, if they go mad he will. He asks if she is having second thoughts. Knock at the door and it's next door saying the post left him a card. Derek goes and picks up the card that's been pushed through the door. Both of them thought it was their partners. Liz says she feels better now.

Rovers - Carla joins Liam, Leanne and Janice. Liam asks what she wants to drink. Carla says Paul would do very good on a desert island. Liam adds with his records. Paul just comes in and they say there were talking about him. Molly thinks Vera is down. Tyrone says a holiday but Jack says he can't get her out the door. Molly says she can get her dad's CD of peaceful music.

Denise's place - Ken has come round. She tells him Daniel is waiting for him. Ken asks what he knows and what she has said. She says she has told him he is Ken and that he is his dad. She has not made a big deal out of it so Ken says he is ready. The doorbell goes and she says she will just get that first. Ken walks through.

Derek's friend's place - Derek says he has washed the glasses. Liz says change the bedding. He says he will sneak in later this week and sort that. Liz asks where the card is that next door put through. Liz puts it back on the floor. He asks if she'd do this again. She says they have to get home without getting caught first. They kiss then go out the door.

Denise's place - Ken asks why Blanch has followed him. She says she found the address and got a taxi. Denise asks if they want to be alone but is told it's her house. Just then she introduces her son Daniel. Blanch says she is the mother-in-law of his wife. Denise offers her a drink and she says a brandy. Ken says Daniel was little when he last saw him. Blanch coughs and he asks why she is here and she says when she has a drink.

Rovers - Paul asks if any one wants crisps. Liam asks if he has come into money. He says he will take that as a no. As he goes to the bar, he asks Leanne who's coming back from the toilet that they should stay away from each other. Leanne says he didn't have to come in. He says his wife is in and Leanne says her boyfriend is here and continues walking.

Denise's place - Blanch says she came first to find out what this woman was playing at. Denise says she is not playing at anything. Blanch says he is a married man that's fallen out with his wife. Ken says he has tried but Deirdre made it clear he was not welcome. He then says they don't need to listen to this. Blanch says she came to remind him of the vows he made and where he should be now.

Rovers - Carla asks if they are going to go along the seaside but thinks they will end up in a pub any way. Janice asks Leanne if she is working later. Liam says she works weird hours. He then suggests they go for a walk. As they get up to go Paul asks if he can have a word in private. Liam says yes as he is being mysterious. Carla says its ok as whatever the secret is she will find out.

Is Paul really going to tell Liam about Leanne and will he believe it? Find out in the next report

This report is Copyright M@nda

Amanda Souter

Paul has got Liam out of the pub and onto the street, Liam leans against the Rovers window and faces Paul "C'mon what's the big mystery?" Liam asks his older brother. Paul looks awkward and tells Liam that in his opinion "There's something not right about you and Leanne- I don't think you should keep seeing her" Liam looks puzzled by the big brother speech and asks Paul if Leanne has done anything to upset him....Paul says he just doesn't think they are well suited "She's a scrubber" he reasons. Liam tells him its all got nothing to do with him- and he should leave them alone....Liam thinks for a moment and asks Paul if he is jealous.

In the Rovers- Janice, Leanne and Carla are sat in a booth watching Liam and Paul's reflection through the glass, they are trying to work out what the two are talking about. Leanne decides she's had enough and heads out to join them in the street. She demands to know what's going on but Paul goes into the Rovers muttering that he thinks his brother is "brain damaged" and Liam tells her its just Paul "in one again" They both head back inside.

Denise is trying to get Blanche out of her flat. She helps her put her coat on, but Blanche is reluctant to leave without Ken- she wants to sort out his relationship with Deirdre, but Denise won't allow the two to talk about it in her flat- she doesn't want Daniel in the middle of it all. There's a taxi waiting for Blanche, but its like shifting a heavy weight- she is determined to ruin Ken's meeting with Daniel. Eventually she gives up "We'll discuss this at a later date" she says to Ken before leaving.

Ken apologises to Denise as Daniel comes out of the bedroom- he's a typical lad- arms crossed he heads over to Ken "My mam embarrasses me sometimes" Ken corrects him that Blanche is his Mother-in-law. "Can I have a beer" he asks his Mum- "No you can not" Denise replies laughing.

Back in the Rovers and Paul is stood drinking at the bar alone while Leanne, Liam and Carla sit down- Carla wants to know what's going on- Liam starts ranting about his "moody" brother and Leanne gets up- she's decided she's be better off leaving then they'd be no trouble- she storms out of the pub- despite Liam asking her to stay. Janice chases after her to see what all that was about- Leanne tells Janice that Paul is a "Vindictive Weirdo" and he is trying to stir bother between her and Liam.

Ken is back with his son....Daniel has settled for orange juice and Ken is asking him what else is he interested in besides football- Oh just computer games and heavy metal he replies. There's a burning question Daniel would like to ask though- "How old are you?" "Very old" Ken replies. "Oh so you should have really been a Granddad" Daniel decides- Denise is in the background wishing the ground would open up and swallow her and says she thinks maybe they should move onto other things now.

Molly is entering the Duckworths, Vera is still sat up nursing her ankle- Molly thinks Vera is in a bad mood so she has brought her some "Ambient music" apparently Molly's Dad swears by it for keeping him calm! Molly reads the back of one of the cds "Let your stress flow away with the sounds of the humpback whales" Vera looks unsure but tells Molly to put one on. The cd starts up to the sound of the ocean- so you'd think of being on the most exotic beach....Hawaii, California? No- Vera thinks it like being at Blackpool!

Kirk's in the Rovers with Fizz and Maria- he's had a nightmare day- with Molly leaving him in the lurch- his work has doubled. Kirk wants to have a drink and a chat with Fizz- but she declines- "I told Chesney I'd help him with his lines"

Leanne is just going into the kebab shop- Mel is working today and is straightening some leaflets. Leanne must have forgot that she has entered a kebab shop and asks Mel for a coffee- Mel asks her would she not want a kebab to go with it- but Leanne is miles away looking out of the window- so a coffee it is.

Ken is playing happy families with Daniel- They are going to have a game of subuteo, Ken is amazed they still play such a game, "Oh yes" Denise confirms. Daniel wants to know why Ken didn't get in contact with him when they only live half an hour apart (A question I think we'd all like answering!) Ken reasons with the lad that the longer you leave things the harder they become- and that's what has happened with him, he tells Daniel he started to feel too scared to visit- Daniel says he thinks that is weird as he is just a young boy and Ken is an old man- yet Ken is scared of him.

Paul meets Leanne unexpectantly on the corner near Street Cars. Paul makes some cheap joke that Leanne has lowered her standards standing on the street corner for business- Leanne wants to know why he hasn't kept his mouth shut when she thought they had a deal. Paul tells her that her secrets still safe but he thought Liam needed some guidance about who he is spending his time with. Leanne calls him two-faced and says he is jealous that he has to pay when Liam can have it for free. Leanne warns him that if he pushes her any further she may lose a boyfriend but he'll be losing a marriage!

Jack is in the Rovers enjoying the fact that Vera is at home and not bothering him- he notices Deirdre sat on a bar stool and asks her how Ken is.....Deirdre puts on a brave face "Oh he's fine, I'll tell him you asked" She then turns to face Liz and tells her she doesn't know how long she can keep lying- Liz tells her it won't be long before he's back. Blanche joins her and Deirdre looks horrified as Blanche tells her she has been to Denise's flat.

Gail, Audrey and Maria are in a booth- they are spying on Jason and Sarah kissing and cuddling at the bar. Audrey tells Gail to stop staring but Gail says she is nervous when they aren't arguing- Maria says she guesses its Love, Gail still can't forgive him for jilting her daughter at the altar though but Maria sticks up for Jason saying she thinks he has changed a lot since then.

Daniel is winning Ken 4-0 at subuteo- when Denise says its half time. Daniel goes into the bedroom and Denise and Ken settle on the sofa with a bottle of wine. She offers Ken the sofa for the night so he doesn't have to worry about how much wine he is drinking.

Jack has been called by Vera- he heads home and Vera is holding some cds in her hand- "Give these back to Molly's Dad- they've nearly killed me" There has been that many sounds of water- she is bursting for the toilet!! Jack hoists her up and takes her to the loo.

Leanne is knocking on Liam's door- Liam looks pleased to see her. He apologises to Leanne and they kiss as Paul and Carla pass in their taxi. Liam invites her in but before she does, she turns and gives Paul a little wave.

Blanche tells Deirdre she's been to Denise's flat and has seen the two of them together. She is urging Deirdre to go and speak to Ken, she's not due in work til 11.00 am and, as Blanche points out, that gives her three hours, but Deirdre refuses, saying she doesn't want to go and speak to him in some B&B with a load of commercial travellers having their breakfast. Deirdre says that Ken prefers to talk to Denise, but Blanche assures her it's his son that he's interested in. "And why shouldn't he be?" she asks. Deirdre says that she doesn't begrudge him his son, and Blanche tells her that he can have his son and she can have her marriage, if she doesn't let it slip away. "And that's what'll happen unless you rouse yourself," she says. Deirdre points out that it was Ken who walked out. Blanche agrees, but says that now he's sitting in a lonely room with strangers around him.

Actually, he's not. Ken has slept on Denise's sofa and is watching Daniel get ready for school. He tells Daniel that he's like to get to know more about him. "Oh yeah, like the date I was born?" asks Daniel, sarcastically. "I know that already," Ken tells him. "Then why haven't you ever sent me a birthday card? Or a Christmas card?" comes the reply. Touche!

Gail and Claire start another early morning conversation across the gardens when loud music puts and end to it. Darryl comes out of his shed/bedroom into the garden between them. "Your music!" Claire shouts at him. "Good innit?" he replies. "It's too loud," shouts Gail. "What?" asks Darryl, and then has a brainwave, "I'll switch it off!" he says. When all is silent once again he comes out and asks what they wanted. "I was asking you to switch it off," says Gail. Darryl says it's all sorted then, "See you later girls," he says, and saunters off. When he's gone, Claire tells Gail she's going to ring the council about the garden shed.

Fizz is waiting at the bus stop with Chesney and Sophie who are off to school. Sophie is practicing her dancing. She tells Chesney that Mr. Stape says she has something special, she has star quality. She tells Chesney he'd better not mess up his lines. He says he won't, but as he gets on the bus he confesses to Fizz that he's really nervous. She assures him that he'll be fine.

As she turns to walk over to the factory, Fizz comes face to face with a tartily dressed Leanne, on her way home from last evening's engagement, but she tells Fizz she's been clubbing. Just then Carla appears, so Fizz hurries off. Carla apologises to Leanne for being married to a bad tempered man. "I don't know what's up with him," she says. Leanne says she knows she's got a reputation for chasing whoever owns Underworld. "He probably thinks it's a habit or something," she says. Carla invites her over to their house for a meal that evening. Leanne looks decidedly nervous. "Liam might have made some plans," she says, but Carla is adamant that he can change them. "Carla, Paul doesn't like me," says Leanne, but Carla won't take no for an answer. "He will when he gets to know you," she says, unaware that Paul already knows Leanne rather too well!

Deirdre goes to the B&B and asks for Ken, but is told that he didn't stay there last night. "Are you his wife?" asks the landlady. "I'm sorry I can't tell you where he went." Deirdre says it's ok, she knows.

Carla tells Paul about her plans for the evening. "A meal with Leanne Battersby?" he says, obviously not keen. "Not a problem is it?" asks Carla. Paul says it isn't, and tells Carla to invite her. Carla tells him she already has, and turns to Liam who has just walked in. "And you are coming and all," she says. Liam tells his brother he's a pain in the neck and he went too far the other day. Paul apologises and says he'll get some wine on the way home.

Ken thanks Denise for putting him up, and says he's glad to have met Daniel. He says he'd like to go on seeing him, but doesn't feel he has anything to offer, not even a place to call his own. Denise tells him he must go back to Deirdre and make his peace. "She doesn't want me," he tells her. She says Deirdre would be suing for divorce if that was the case, and urges him to go back and talk to her. "You may be right," says Ken. "I am," says Denise.

Meanwhile, Deirdre has gone home and told Blanche about Ken not being at the B&B. "You've got find out where he was," says Blanche. Deirdre says she knows where he was. "He might have been run over by a bus," says Blanche, and Deirdre retorts that he might have been hit by a meteorite, but the odds are against it. Blanche urges her to get round to Denise's to find out for certain, but Deirdre says she's going to work.

Claire sees Gail outside and tells her that she's been in touch with the council and Jerry's shed is too big. It's illegal and shouldn't have been put up in the first place. Just then Jerry comes out of his house, followed by Darryl. Claire tells him that the council has said it's too big and it contravenes regulations. He promises to do something about it, and off they go down the street. "What are we actually going to do?" Darryl asks his dad as they walk along. "Same as we always do," says Jerry, "take no notice."

Kirk rushes up to Maria who is hurrying to work. He's in a panic and says he has a problem at the kennels and needs to talk to her urgently. She tells him to see her in the pub after work. "I can't wait that long," he says. "You're going to have to," says Maria, "I'll see you tonight," and hurries off to work.

Dev wants Steve to play golf with him against Paul. Steve says he's not sure if he's going to be fit, and points to his back. "See a physio," says Dev. Michelle comes over and tells Steve that what she told him about Dean is a family thing and she'd like it kept that way. Lloyd teases Steve about Michelle, but Steve assures him he's over her and not at all bothered.

Cilla comes into the Rovers and sees Kirk sitting on his own. He tells her he's waiting for Maria. She sits down at the table. "Are you not going to get a girl a drink?" she asks.

Leanne and Liam arrive at Carla's and Paul's flat. "Nice flat this," says Leanne, and Liam says that of course she'd know all about property. "Well I know about Spanish property, but it's a different game over here," she says. "I think the game's the same anywhere," says Paul.

Deirdre and Blanche hear someone come in the front door, and Ken walks into the living room. "She's been out looking for you," Blanche tells him. Ken says the landlady told him and he wonders if she told her where he spent last night. Blanche says she made an intelligent guess. "Don't tell me I got it wrong," says Deirdre. "By the look on your face I would surmise that you did, at least in part," says Ken.

Maria goes into the pub and asks Kirk what is wrong. He explains that the wrong dog was castrated by the vet and the owner is going to sue.

Liam is sitting with his arm round Leanne, much to Carla's delight and Paul's annoyance. The conversation turns to work. "Leanne's family didn't help her get started," says Carla, "she did it all by herself." Leanne, slightly embarrassed, says that she had a stroke of luck and then worked hard. "We all work hard," says Carla. "So we should all end up with money in the bank," says Liam.

Ken is putting some of his things into a plastic bag. Deirdre asks why he went to see Denise. He explains that she is the mother of his child. "And I'm not," says Deirdre, bitterly. "I could have been but you never wanted a son with me." Ken says that Tracy is their daughter, but she tells him not to mention her name in the same breath as Denise. Ken says he wanted to see his son, to put things right. "You could have written to him, you could have rung," says Deirdre. Ken says he wanted to start a relationship. "What else is there in my life?" he asks. "What about me?" asks Deirdre. Ken points out that she drove him out, but she says that he left of his own free will. Blanche comes back in, and Deirdre tells her that Ken did spend the night with Denise. Ken protests that he slept on the sofa. "I'll bet," snaps Deirdre.

Back in the pub, Maria tells Kirk that if the vet castrated the wrong dog, it's the vet's fault, but Kirk tells her that he was rushed off his feet, he was on his own. When the vet asked which dog it was, he just pointed. "It's all my fault, I should have gone with him but I had forms to fill in," he says, "I told him it was a boxer." Maria then realises that the mistake could cost them dearly. "You're useless!" she snaps and storms out of the pub.

Leanne and Liam are taking their leave of Carla and Paul. In a quiet moment when they're left alone, Leanne tells Paul he couldn't have been more awkward. He tells her she needn't have come. She assures him that next time she'll give it a miss.

Steve tells Dev that he will be playing golf, his back is cured. They plan to thrash Paul.

Fizz is talking to Kirk, telling him he should have told her before. He says she's been too wrapped up with Chesney and his show. "I'm useless," he says. "Kirk, it was just one dog," she tells him. "One prize boxer stud," says Kirk, "worth a fortune!"

Ken is still trying to talk to Deirdre. "Why won't you believe me? I went there to see my son," he says. "And Denise was just an accessory?" says Deirdre. Ken points out that Daniel is 12 years old, he couldn't contact him without Denise's permission. Deirdre says he never thought about her feelings. He says he thinks about her feelings all the time. "Liar," she says, and tells him he always does just as he likes. "What about when Ray came back," he says, "did you put my feelings first then?" Deirdre says that was totally different, Ray was a sick man. Ken also reminds her about Mike, saying he had to live cheek by jowl for years with the man who took her away from him. "Sometimes," snaps Deirdre, "I wish I'd stayed away!" "I bet you do," says Ken, and picks up his coat. "I'm not talking to you any more, I'm leaving!" Then he takes his things and leaves.

Anne Logan

We open in the street where Steve drives up to park almost outside the pub. He has Liz and Amy on board. Amy has apparently done some pictures which Liz says Nana Dee-Dee and Nana Blanche will love. Nearby, Dev and Paul are loading golf clubs into a car. Yes, I agree it would have made more sense for one or the other to be picked up on the way. Has Paul been keeping his clubs in the back of the shop? I think we should be told. Steve says he'll see them at the clubhouse. Dev asks after Steve's back, and Paul says he's heard that Steve's yellow streak is playing him up. Michelle comes past and reminds Steve that she doesn't want Paul to know she told Steve about Dean. Steve says goodbye to Amy and Amy and Liz knock on Nana Dee-Dee's door. Deirdre gushes over the pictures and asks Liz if she's got time for a coffee.

Inside, there is no time for pleasantries or sending Amy upstairs to wash her hands, as Blanche and Deirdre launch straight into their own version of what Ken's been up to – fancy woman, her bed, tomcatting, Denise Osborne, men-stealing trollop, blousy, brassy, the nerve! Deirdre says she plans to have it out with Denise. Liz warns her she might make it worse. "Worse than what?" demands Deirdre. "This is not just a bit on the side we're talking about!"

Ken, meanwhile, is giving his version of events to Denise. He says Deirdre knew he was right. "Which no doubt you pointed out to her," says Denise. Denise thinks he probably backed Deirdre into a corner. "For somebody clever you can be really dense sometimes!" she says. "There's nothing worse than the ‘ex' factor, and I don't mean Simon Cowell." "Who?" asks Ken. She tells him that as far as Deirdre is concerned, Ken has moved in with her. "You make it sound very sleazy," Ken says. Denise explains to him that that's just how Deirdre sees it. Denise sounds very reasonable to me and advises Ken to talk to Deirdre. But he's not going to do that until Deirdre is calmer and more rational.

On the golf course, the lads are arguing. Paul appears to be having a poor game and Steve is getting smug. When Paul loses another £5 he suggests they double it to £10 a hole. Dev thinks that's a bit steep, but Paul wants it doubled again, to £20 per hole.

Kirk is in the pub telling Maria and Fizz about the solicitor's letter he's been sent. The boxer's owner wants £20,000 to make up for the stud fees they would have earned if Kirk hadn't been careless enough to let the dog lose its...er ... Anyway, apparently Kirk's dad wants to do to him what the vet did to the boxer. He tells Maria their dad wants him to sell out. Maria says that at least he'll have enough left over to start again. But Kirk admits there are some things he hasn't paid. "Tax. VAT. Suppliers," he admits. Oops. He tells Fiz they can go on holiday with what's left. Maria wants to know if her share is still safe. Kirk looks at her. "Forget the holiday," he tells Fiz. At the bar, Leanne joins Janice at the bar and tells her things are going well with Liam.

On the golf course, it seems Paul is doing better. He offers to let Steve out of losing money on the game if he leaves Michelle alone. Dev tries to tell Steve that Paul's just trying to put him off his putt. Steve's about ready to putt when Paul tells him he'll bet him £50 he wont' get it. "Tell you what, keep your money, because you were never going to get that," Paul says. But Steve pounds after him off the green, his honour besmirched. "No! No!" he says. "How about fifty quid a hole?" Dev pulls him up so short it's a wonder Steve doesn't get whiplash and mutters to him to ignore the voices in his head! Steve ignores Dev instead.

Claire and Ashley cooing with baby Freddie outside the butcher's shop, watched wistfully by Eileen. Claire calls her over and suggests she comes out for a drink with Ashley and Claire at the Rovers later on. Eileen looks very down. Not far away, Fiz and Maria discuss Kirk and the kennels. Fiz thinks they would have been more successful if one of the dogs had run the kennels. Maria says her parents knew Kirk needed help if he was to make anything of himself. Fiz doesn't think a failed business will look good on Kirk's job applications, either.

Steve's been in more bunkers than Hitler, according to Dev. Steve tries to psych out Paul by talking in general terms about Dean's accident and death. Paul, who seems to be on a lucky streak, looks suspicious, but Steven doesn't say anything to confirm whether or not he knows what Paul did. That doesn't stop Paul getting very uptight and asking Steve if he wants to raise the bet. "Double or quits," says Steve. "That's £1,000," Dev points out.

Ken, Denise and Daniel are at Denise's flat, where Daniel is doing his French homework. He doesn't see the point of doing French, though Ken points out it's always good to learn a foreign language. Daniel thinks Chinese would be more useful, because China is probably going to be the next superpower. Ken starts to discuss this until Denise points out that Daniel is particularly good at diverting the topic away from his homework. They leave Daniel and Denise asks Ken what he's going to do about Deirdre. "Nothing." Denise thinks it's too much for his stress levels already. Things can't go on as they are and if he and Deirdre aren't going to do anything about it, Denise will!

Fiz is early to the school hall and chats to the teacher, helping him to put out the seats.

Eileen is in the pub with the Peacocks. They make small talk until Claire broaches the subject of Holly. Except Eileen's not allowed to call her that any more. The baby's mum is insisting on Chloe. Still, Eileen says she should be celebrating her good news – Emma's going to allow her to send the baby birthday and Christmas cards! Now Eileen just needs to find out when the birthday is. "I'm not holding my breath," she tells them. The golfers come in, Dev still talking about an amazing shot Paul played to get out of a bunker. "And a grand on one hole! This is just amazing." Steve persuades him to shut up because he doesn't want Michelle to know what happened. In fact, he tells Michelle that he beat Paul. "Her finding out the truth – ten times worse than me handing over a grand to Paul," Steve explains to Dev.

It's the end of the school musical. Fiz tells the teacher it was great, but he points out a number of mistakes, including him missing Chesney's cue.

In the pub, Janice tells Leanne she's seen Les and he tells her Leanne is subbing him. Janice says even Les wouldn't accept the money if he knew where it came from. Behind them, Liam and Carla discuss why Paul is set against Leanne. Liam thinks Paul expects him to have a posh girlfriend. He points out that if Paul had tried it on with Leanne, which Carla suspects, they'd soon know. Leanne wouldn't keep it to herself. "Ms Battersby does not take prisoners, believe me!"

Fiz helps out after the show, hanging up costumes, even though Ches has got a ride home with the Websters. Fiz and the teacher, her first boyfriend, discuss old times. He says that when the show was on, he spent time reminiscing about the two of them. She says she wasn't surprised when he dumped her. But the teacher says she shouldn't put herself down. She's still got the ability to light up a room when she walks in, he says. She starts to thank him but stops when Kirk coming in to find her.

The three amigos (Rita, Doreen, Norris) head up the street. Doreen tells them the council has found asbestos in her flat so she'll be with them a while. Rita suddenly stops dead, clutching a hand to her chest. She's seen Ken and Denise. Denise is looking across at the salon, but then Ken hustles her into No 1. Rita suddenly says last one to the bar has to get the drinks and they all run for it!

Blanche thinks it's Deirdre come home, but realises it's Ken and his floozie (her word). Ken tells her he wants to talk to Deirdre. Blanche says Deirdre is in the pub, drowning her sorrows. "And she's certainly got plenty to drown."

Rita avoids questions from Norris about who Denise was, but in hushed tones in the pub, she tells Audrey she's seen Denise. "They had a kiddie together, didn't they?" Audrey asks, just loud enough to reach Norris's ears. If he was a Border Leicester sheep his ears would be at full attention. Then in walk Denise and Ken, Denise smiling a broad hello at Rita and Audrey. Deirdre is sitting at a table but she springs to her feel when she sees them. "Of all the flaming cheek!" Ken doesn't want a scene but Deirdre doesn't think buying the pair of them a drink is an option. "How humiliating do you think this is – parading your . . . tart in front of our friends and neighbours!" Deirdre is in full neck frenzy by now. Denise steps forward and says in a very decided tone of voice: "Look, all we wanted was a sensible chat but you start yelling like some scraggy-faced fishwife. No wonder Ken walked out on you and that old witch of a mother of yours." Deirdre screams, "Don't you dare talk about a defenceless old lady like that!" Behind her, Norris mutters, "Blanche? Defenceless?" And Audrey mouths: "Lady?" Deirdre is in full flow and Ken tries to stop them. She calls Denise a pathetic slapper who lures other women's husbands into her bed. "It worked once so you thought you'd try the same trick again!" Denise is ready for her. "Your daughter killed someone in cold blood and you started blaming Ken because he didn't know what was happening, when you, yourself, didn't have a clue!" WHACK! Deirdre lands one across her chops. She says none of that means Denise can come round shooting her mouth off. Ken has her by the shoulders and is holding her back from Denise. "For the last time! There is nothing going on between me and Denise. She came here with me to try and help, but you lay into her like some demented harpy. Why did I ever expect you to listen when you never listen to anything you don't want to hear," he says. "I'm not going to waste my breath on you any more. Come on, Denise." And they leave, with Deirdre all alone in the pub, her eyes full of tears and her chest heaving with breathlessness.

The End.
Margaret Carr

I have to apologise for the late update. I have just returned from a week's business trip to Japan - my parent company is based in Tokyo - and we were delivering our annual results and talking through the budget for the next year. Anyway back to Weatherfield and events on the Street - which reach an interesting point tonight when the inevitable happens.

We start with Deirdre making the most of the last few weeks before the smoking ban (from 1 July) which will prevent the team showing her smoking on any internal shot - Dreary of course smacked Denise around the face and claims she just flipped whilst Blanche reckons she played directly into Denise's arms (or at least drove Ken into them). Liz tries to justify Deirdre's actions - she would have done the same herself - but somehow that does not make it any better. Anyway Ken will have applied some tender loving care!!

At the Osborne residence Denise asks Ken to stay as long as his neck can stand the sofa - which he prefers to the nylon sheets at the B&B. Daniel does not seem keen at this turn of events. And Ken will not be seeing Dreary to sort it out - she owes Denise an apology at the least and he will not be moving until it is issued. Later Ken arrives with his bags and asks Daniel if he reads offering him a book by Richard Ford about a man who makes mistakes, Daniel says thanks but continues to watch the television. Ken wants to know if Dan is happy with him being there - but Daniel knows that he has no say in the matter.

Violet observes Steve writing a cheque for £1000 to Paul Connor for the last round of golf, then heads into the bar and asks Michelle why Steve is writing a cheque to Paul, for a lot of money. Michelle does not understand - the golf round went well. Later Michelle turns up at the cab office and tells Steve to leave it for an hour - she wants to take him on a magical mystery tour.

Blanche is winding Dreary up - telling her how Ken will be lashing out money on trainers, cyber pets, games for the computer - and she will be coming in for the odd bauble too (and Ken remember has no money thanks to Tracy). She witters on endlessly as Deirdre descends into tears - although Blanche reckons that she will throw him out when he starts on about global warming.

Now for reasons that I do not understand Les has vanished - did anyone mention the need for another driver - I gather in reality he has been suspended for making inappropriate comments whilst drinking in a pub - anyway he is a roadie for an Irish tribute band (ZZ Top of the Morning) as Fiz tells the teacher when delivering Chesney for another performance of Bugsy. Fiz and John share a joke - there is soon going to be a very unhappy Kirk I rather think.

Steve and Michelle arrive at the golf club - hardly a mystery tour remarks Steve - and they go and look at the club trophies. Turns out that Paul was club champion in 1997, 1999, 2000, 2003 and then Michelle that he has done this before - taking punters for large sums of money. He smiles as Michelle tells him that it could be worse - he could already have handed the grand over - but he has her to bail him out.

Back at the Rovers Bill is telling Kirk and Cilla that Sally reckoned that Sophie stole the show - but once she was out of earshot Kev had told him that Sophie was flat throughout and that Chesney was the real star of the show. Cilla seems to swell with pride for her son. Later we see his performance - Sophie can see him stealing the show - and Maria and Cilla are excited by his performance until Maria sees something in the background which catches her eye - John and Fiz who seem to be more interested in each other than the show up front!!

I cannot be bothered to report that Darryl, wayward useless offspring of Jelly Roll (once Sinbad) Morton decided to urinate in front of Claire, much to the disgust of the latter. Oh puuuhhlllleeeaaasssseee as they say "gross".

Steve (apparently deciding that the cab office can manage even though he is a driver short) returns to the Rovers where he brings Dev up to date on Paul's abilities. Lloyd cackles about the time and effort that Paul put into making Steve look stupid. Steve admits to them that Michelle had turned Queen's evidence and they say that either she hates her brother or really likes Steve. Michelle asks he if had mentioned that he had written the cheque and gently pulls Steve's leg as she wanders into the back room.

Elsewhere Liam and Leanne (the 2 LLs) are getting along well - even Janice concedes she has not seen Leanne this happy in a long time.

Paul arrives in the Rovers, full of the joys of spring and asks after his thousand pounds. Steve responds - "Let's be sportsmanlike about it". Paul tells him he can buy the next round. Yes says Steve - what would a five times club champion like to drink? Paul is fast - he hisses at Michelle "Inside info? Thanks a lot Michelle". She responds rapidly - he is more of a man than you will ever be - next time you want to fleece someone don't pick on one of my mates. Hearing this Dev and Lloyd tease Steve - she does not love him - merely wants to protect him from the nasty boys, just sew mittens on his duffle coat sleeves; Lloyd adds that she said "mate" and it was what he heard just too often "the "f" word - I just want to be your friend - it has ruined too many relationships. Steve is very unhappy at hearing this - but does not realise that Michelle has heard every word.

At the school Kirk asks Fiz is she is leaving but as the stand in parent she tells him that she will help clear up and not to worry if she is late and cannot join him for a drink. He leaves but Maria is not so green and marches over with a furious look on her face. You gave my brother the brush off - why - is she going off him? Fiz denies it but Maria is not reconciled and says that it looks as though he is an embarrassment to her these days. Fiz frowns and huffs but she exchanges a glance with John who is watching her closely and then Fiz looks guilty.

Along at the Rovers Steve summons up the courage to ask Michelle why she helped him out today. She says that Paul was taking him to the cleaners - but as Steve observes she owes him nothing. She answers that she likes him and that she cares what happens to him - and fearing the Lloyd position asks if she likes him as a mate - correction daft mate. She moves closer and tells him that she happens to like daft. They hold for a second and the tension crackles and un-nerves Steve who (having been rejected once remember) dashes out to the bar to get a drink.

Slinking after him Michelle appears at his elbow and asks if she can have a word. He follows her into the hallway and Steve says "It's alright you don't have too ..." but she cuts him off with a whisper "Did I say I wanted a word? I'm sorry, I meant ... a kiss" and the months of pent up energy between the two is consummated in a passionate kiss which brought cheers here and probably elsewhere as she pulls his face to hers with her hands around his face. Steve responds rather better than she did last time around.

Claire hears something go bump in the night outside - and Ashley says he will do the recycling and she should go to bed - probably Darryl dumping over the garden fence.

In the back room of the Rovers sitting side by side Steve and Michelle have wide smiles on their faces and she says she ought to be slapping his face rather than kissing it - they could have been doing this months ago if he had arrived at that gig and then she would not have met Sonny. Anyway he cannot believe that she is slumming it with a sad single dad. She says that he is a Daft sad single dad. Well he is lucky she is at that point in her life when she will settle for any sad old loser.

He says that it is important that they get this right - or if nothing else Ryan will kneecap him as Michelle points out. He makes it clear he wants something serious, nothing casual - not with her. And she agrees and pulls him closer for another kiss.

So we have finally got there. Now I realise that no-one listens to me - but please everyone do not be silly - Steve is a long term resident and therefore please Kym remember that this could be a gig for life if you want it - no silly ideas, work with the scripts as they come along, take the rough with the smooth, stay the right side of the production team (and work hard) and you can be the centre of life on the Street for the next 30 or 40 years - regular steady income (which apparently for the next year is £80,000 - which is a lot more than some in your profession earn). And above all enjoy it - we do and we want it to keep coming.

I hope that I will be writing the update for tonight shortly!

See you all next time - same place, new report!

K Richard W

This episode of Coronation Street is Written by Chris Fewtrell
Directed by Mike Adams
Produced by Steve Frost
Sponsored by Cadburys
CORONATION STREET is copyright ITV productions

Battersby's; Cilla seeing Kirk looking at the newspaper tells him he should be looking at the job pages. Chez comes down asking for his gym kit. Cilla says it's where he left it, not washed. As he goes, Kick also goes and Cilla says they rely on his rent and hit would hurt Les to kick him out.

Outside, Michelle gives Ryan his lunch. He asks why she never made it last night and she tells him she had more important things. As he goes, Steve comes out the Kabin. Michelle says she's not told Ryan. Steve says, their dates will be hard to plan with the kids. Steve says Ryan is out of sight and they kiss. Kevin and Tyrone see Kirk on the bench. Tyrone says he heard about the kennels. Kevin says he will get another job as he is young but can't think of anything else and says Tyrone will tell you. Tyrone can't think of anything else and says he if needs any thing. Maria comes out and says people worry about him and hugs him.

School Fiz sees John who asks why she's here. She says she came to see if she can do any thing and is due a sickie. He says they can meet up for lunch and does not have to pull a sickie. She says ok and as she goes she sees Chez who asks why she's here. She says she lost an earring.

Backroom of the Rovers; Steve and Michelle are kissing when Violet comes in. They pull apart and Violet says they are doing what they should have done a long time ago. They tell her not to tell anyone. Liz comes in and asks what is going on. Violet and Michelle leave. Liz tells Steve the rule when having a business is to keep your hands of the staff and she has two over protective brothers.

Rovers; Violet asks if this is the real deal. Michelle says, after Sunny she has no faith in judgment. Violet says she must be excited and says she and Steve need to come out with her and her new guy and see what they think.

Conner's; Carla says Leanne is good with Liam. Leanne says she has landed on her feet. Carla tells her not to waste time with the family accepting her. Carla says Paul has her here and his family over the road and he tried to keep them separate. Carla says the benefits are they are meeting her personal shopper and says you may be an outsider but will never go cold in a fur coat.

Salon; Kirk says he has lost everything. Maria says she has as well but she has got over it and so will he. Kirk says everything he touches goes wrong and he thinks he will never get back with Fiz. Maria gives him the keys and says she will be up soon.

Barlow's; Blanch jumps as Ken comes in. He puts a bag on the table and says he hopes he is not disturbing her. Blanch says she is just glad he is back. Ken says he is only back for a few more things. Blanch says Deirdre will be home soon. He says he better get a move on then and goes past her.

Salon flat; Maria tells Kirk that Fiz is missing something. Kirk says a guy with a good job and brains. Maria says Fiz was happy when Chez was staying with them. Kirk does not get it. Maria tells him that Fiz wants a family in the future. He asks what he should do but she says she can't live his life.

Streetcars; Steve has made tea. Eileen asks why he's had a big smile on all day. Lloyd asks why he was singing. Steve says he is going out on a date with Michelle when he can get a baby sitter. Lloyd says it's only taken a year. Eileen says, in six months they will be holding hands. Steve says he can't get a baby sitter. Eileen says she is busy but Steve says he will sort it out.

Outside, Blanch says she thought Ken was a reasonable man. Ken says he didn't come back for an argument and gives her his contact details. Blanch says, moved in full time? Ken says he's on the sofa. Blanch says for now. Paul walks into the pub.

Rovers; Lloyd says for Michelle to make Steve unhappy sometimes as they can't stand him happy. Paul asks to speak to her and he says he knows about her and Steve. He says she can do better. Michelle says he has been lying to her and she can trust Steve. Paul goes and Kirk comes in and asks for a pint. Cilla reminds him of the rent. Kirk says she will get it and he is sorting out his life and thinking positive.

Outside, Fiz and John have got something to eat. They remember back when they were teenagers. He says sometimes you see someone in a few months and don't know what to say to them. Fiz continues and says they are picking up right were they left off. He asks if she is enjoying her sandwich.

Rovers; Michelle says everyone will know soon. They kiss and Liz comes in. Michelle says she is just going to make a sandwich. Steve asks Liz if she will baby sit but he is told no. Liz goes and Michelle laughs saying it was like being 14 and getting caught. Steve says they will never get out.

Restaurant; Carla and Leanne have been shopping. Carla asks if the business is going well, she says it is. Carla asks where Janice is going to wear the scarf Leanne has got her. Leanne says she will take her somewhere nice. Carla suggests the have some champagne cocktails.

Outside, John tells Fiz she would do good working in the school as a class room assistant. Fiz says she can't do that job. He says she is putting herself down. Fiz puts her hand on his neck. He looks surprised and she removes it and says sorry.

Garage; Tyrone says Kirk has cheered up. He says he has a lot going for him. Tyrone says that's good and Kirk asks for money. Tyrone asks how much and he says a few hundred. Kevin lets him go to the bank. As they go, Tyrone asks what it's for. Kirk says he is going to get Fiz an engagement ring.

Will Kirk really propose to Fiz? Will she accept and say yes? Find out soon

This report is Copyright M@nda

Amanda Souter

Fizz and the teacher, John- are just parting ways. Fizz explains seeing him was such a big surprise, as she walks away from John, he calls her back and asks her if she would like his phone number.

Deirdre is just leaving her house- Emily stops her in the street, "How did it go?" Deirdre has no idea what Emily is talking about. "With Ken" Emily adds. Deirdre now looks angry- "Has he been here?" she demands to know. Emily says she assumed they would have been talking, but as Deirdre says Ken just came back for a change of clothes and then obviously sneaked away to avoid her. Emily hints at Deirdre that someone has to give way- Emily then looks taken aback when Deirdre states Ken can rot for all she cares!

Clare has spied Ashley talking in the street to Jerry and Darryl Morton, the three of them are talking and laughing- the subject is football. As soon as Jerry and Darryl return to their house, Clare comes running out to see if Ashley has spoke to the two about the garden shed. Jerry's charm has obviously won Ashley round as he tells Clare he hasn't mentioned the shed as he doesn't want to start a war with the neighbours. Clare looks angry- but gives Ashley the benefit of the doubt, "Ok then, did you speak to them about the music?" "No its not that loud" Ashley reasons- but this time Clare is giving him no slack- "Complaining to the neighbours is a wifely duty then is it?"

Leanne and Carla are still sipping on Champagne in the bar, there's quite some views in this scene as the bar is high up- looking over Manchester. Carla is remembering how Paul used to look when she first met him, "He used to look like Boy George- long hair and everything" Leanne like me is having some trouble thinking of Paul looking anything different from the straight suited guy we've got used to seeing. Carla says she hates the fact that Paul is just a boring businessman in a suit nowadays, she loved the days when he used to surprise her. Carla's attention turns to Leanne, "I envy you having your own money" Leanne stares into her glass trying not to catch Carla's eye- "my advice is never let go of your own bank account" she adds.

Liam is in Underworld- he appears round the corner and the first thing he see's is Janice. While everyone else is working, she is laid back reading a magazine. "What you doing?" Liam asks. "I'm just trying to see how far I can go now you are seeing our Leanne" she answers back. Liam just informs her she won't be getting any special favours. The attention is now turned to Fizz, who runs in late for her shift. Liam says to Janice that as a special favour- he won't kick off about her mate being late- but he still gives Fizz a stern look. Fizz tells the girls she lost track of time while shopping, "Did you lose track of your shopping as well? You haven't got any" Kelly observes.

Emily is in Audrey's having her hair tended to by Maria. Emily comments that she is "Stressed to the max" Maria looks shocked by Emily's choice of phrase- "I heard someone say it on the bus" Emily explains. Maria decides Emily could do with some relaxing oil massaged into her temples, to which Emily lets her- and she is enjoying it up to Kirk barging into the salon. Kirk wants Maria to leave the flat tonight so he can be on his own with Fizz- he won't tell Maria why, but she agrees to leave the flat free for them both.

Clare and Ashley are in the butchers. Ashley is trying to get the shop tidy and Clare is hovering round trying to get him to speak to the Mortons again. Deirdre walks in and Clare asks her where Ken is. "He's been busy, but he's well" Deirdre says, she then turns to Ashley who tells her what he's got special today, Deirdre tells him she'll just have one of them- and then breaks down in tears. Clare goes to hug her- but Deirdre runs out of the shop.

Over at the factory, the girls have noticed Fizz has been quiet all afternoon.....but despite asking her what's up, she won't tell them. The day has finished and everyone else is going across to the Rovers, but Fizz stays behind telling them she needs to make a phone-call. Janice and Kelly are just spilling out onto the street from the factory when Kirk holds out a bunch of flowers- he was obviously expecting Fizz. Janice tells Kirk if he wants Fizz- he'll have to go inside and get her- but Kirk doesn't want to. Kelly goes back in and tells Fizz that Kirk is waiting, but Fizz panics and runs through the back door, leaving Kelly to think of an excuse to tell Kirk.

As the Underworld staff settle in the Rovers, Kelly tells them she told Kirk that Fizz must have slipped out when no-one was looking. Janice doesn't look very impressed with her excuse, but Kelly says that was all she could think of and Kirk believed her anyway.

Paul, Liam and Michelle are round the bar- Paul is still trying to make Liam see that Leanne is no good for him, but Liam has Michelle to stick up for him. "Its nothing to do with you who Liam see's" Leanne and Carla walk in to meet the brothers. Carla looks slightly drunk as she gives Paul a present. Its a blue shirt with flowery patches on it. "Are you sure you bought this for me and not Sean" he asks. Leanne has bought Liam a silver chain- he looks very pleased with his present.

Emily has called round to Deirdre for a cup of tea. Deirdre explains what happened in the Butchers and admits she feels lonely. She tells Emily that its her own fault Ken left "I keep taking stuff out on him- things he couldn't have possibly done anything about" Emily says she should tell Ken all this, Deirdre replies that she can't.

Fizz is talking to Kelly and Janice- she's just about to tell them what secret she is hiding when Kirk and Maria interrupt. Maria and Kirk get the drinks in while Fizz sneaks out of the pub. When Kirk realises Fizz has left, he sits with Kelly and Janice believing that Fizz has gone to the toilet- Its a while before he realises she has actually left the building.

Clare is over at the Mortons. "I'm not here to be friends- I'm here to complain" she tells Jerry before he has chance to say anything. Clare lists her concerns and Jerry says he will get straight onto putting things right. Clare leaves the Mortons looking very pleased with herself, but half an hour later when she and Ashley are in the conservatory commenting how peaceful it is- Darryl's music comes blaring out of the shed. Clare and Ashley declare war!

Steve is going through his phone contacts- he is thinking out loud when he says he has asked everyone but no-one will babysit for him tomorrow night. Emily is in ear shot and looks hurt- Steve hasn't asked her to babysit and she leads him to believe she would have. But when Steve asks her is she free tomorrow night she replies with- "No, you should have asked me earlier" Eventually Emily agrees and Steve tells Michelle they can go on their date after all- but Michelle has told Ryan they could go to the cinema- Steve offers to tag along "Let Ryan see the two of us together" Michelle likes the idea and gives him a big kiss.

Fizz is at the flat- she's just about to dial John's number when Kirk appears again, he is still carrying the flowers. Kirk gives her them and a kiss, Fizz goes to put the flowers in water. Kirk is holding a small gift bag and asks Fizz to come and sit with him on the sofa. He says that he has noticed Fizz has been quiet lately and he wants to give more to their relationship. He then gets down on one knee and shows Fizz a cupcake with pink icing on it- in the middle of the icing is a gold engagement ring. As kirk is giving his speech about them both being together forever- Fizz starts crying, Kirk is getting the mood wrong though as he goes on to say he wants to have lots of ginger children "Like Chesney but better looking" (this man has so much charm!!) and then...................here comes the bit he's been leading up to- "Fizz will you marry me?"

Fizz says no "I can't marry you, I don't know what I want, but I know I don't want you- I want to finish" Kirk looks understandably devastated and says he feels "stupid" He runs out of the flat leaving Fizz crying.

Susan

it's morning in the flat and Fiz tells Maria that Kirk proposed to her the night before – and then tells her that she dumped him.

Over at the Peacock household, Claire is convinced she can hear a humming noise. She thinks it's the electricity cable that is running from the house to the shed. Ashley tells her that no noise will be coming out of that. Claire thinks her ears must be ringing from all the music that was coming from the shed last night – it didn't finish until 1.50 am. Ashley points out that at least it's quiet now and they should enjoy it while they can. He offers to rearrange the trip he's planned to take with Joshua but Claire insists that he goes and she'll be fine.

Over at the Battersby household. Cilla mutters to Chesney that Kirk will fall behind with the rent. Just then Maria arrives, and tells everyone that Fiz has finished with Kirk. Cilla demands to know why. "You must have upset her," she says. Kirk says that he asked her to marry him. Maria gives him a hug and tells him she's sorry. "Just what I needed," whispers Cilla.

Ashley goes off to work – after checking again that Claire is ok. He offers to ring his mum and cancel his trip, but she assures him that she's fine. Just as she sends Joshua off to brush his teeth and get ready for school the music starts up again.

Maria walks across the road with Chesney. He's upset at Kirk and Fiz splitting up but Maria assures him they were always having ‘wobbles' and will be back together again in no time.

Steve is checking out his appearance in a small mirror when Liz comes in. She teases him about the way he looks and asks if it's Michelle or Ryan that he's trying to impress. "Because it is going to be the three of you, isn't it?" she smiles. He tells her that no, it's now four, because Amy is coming too. "Proper little family get together," she says. He tells her he would have thought she could have been happy for him, at last it all seems to be coming together, even Michelle's son likes him. She tells him she's happy for him, "I'm sure the four of you will have a really lovely, romantic evening together," she says, and then collapses in giggles. Steve is not amused and goes off upstairs.

Gail meets Claire in the street, and they discuss the noise coming from their neighbour's garden. Just then Jerry and Darryl come along and Claire tells Jerry that because of the loud music she hardly slept the night before. Jerry tells her he never heard a thing. Gail agrees with Claire that the music is too loud and Claire tells him that if there's any more she will make a formal complaint to the council.

Rita's friend Doreen is in the Kabin with Rita and Norris. She wistfully says she wishes she'd bought a business like theirs. Rita, seeming a little irritated, asks if the council has said when her flat will be ready. Doreen says they haven't and Rita and Norris both think it's disgraceful the way they are dragging their feet. Rita urges her to ring again, or go in person and complain.

Steve arrives for his date with Michelle, carrying Amy. He explains that as Ryan is coming with them he thought it would be all right to bring Amy. She then tells him that Ryan has gone to Liam's, she didn't tell him as she wanted to surprise him. So off they go, with Amy, to the pizza restaurant.

Maria sees Fiz in the pub and tells her that Kirk is gutted. Fiz says she feels much the same, so Maria asks her why she did it. Fiz tells her that his proposing made her take a long, hard look at what she wanted. She feels they weren't going anywhere. Maria thinks it's funny the way she's gone off Kirk now that John is back on the scene. Fiz says that they were finished a long time ago – she and Kirk have just run out of steam.

Michelle and Steve and Amy are in the restaurant. Steve says he can't believe they're actually on a date, and now he can't think of a thing to say. They look at Amy and see that she's looking a bit pale. She's about to be sick, so Michelle rushes her off to the toilet.

Liam takes Ryan into the pub, and Leanne comes in just after them. Dev comes up to Leanne and reminds her that he's looking for a Spanish villa. He wants the property details she promised him. She says she'll get on to it.

Maria meets up with Kirk. She asks how he is and he says he's all right. "You just have to get on with it, don't you?" he says, but adds that he doesn't know what he's going to do without Fiz.

Leanne, Liam and Ryan come out into the Street. They say goodbye and Liam takes Ryan off to play computer games.

Michelle brings Amy out of the toilet and tells Steve she's been sick twice. They decide to go home.

Cilla is laying the table when Chesney comes back from the chippy with the fish and chips. He moans because he had to pay for them. "Why?" asks Cilla. Ches explains that ‘Wongy' came out from the back just as Yana was giving them to him, so he had to pay. Cilla doesn't offer to reimburse him, despite the fact that it took most of his paper round money. "You'll get your reward in Heaven," she tells him. Chesney doesn't look too thrilled at this prospect but, knowing his mother as he does, seems resigned to it.

Just then Kirk comes in and remarks that something smells good. Cilla tells him it's fish and chips – his favourite. She adds that at times like these it would help to take his mind off things. He agrees, and says that's why he's been looking for a job. He's spent the afternoon looking through the paper and has found one or two things he's going to apply for. "Excellent!" purrs Cilla, thinking no doubt, of her rent money. "So you won't be leaving!" chirps up Chesney. Kirk looks baffled. "Why would I be leaving?" he asks. Chesney tells him he'd have to if he couldn't pay the rent. Kirk stares at Cilla, who looks embarrassed. "Who says I can't pay the rent?" asks Kirk. "I don't know where he gets his ideas from!" Cilla says, laughing, and tells Kirk there's beer in the fridge if he'd like one.

Steve carries Amy back into the Rovers. Liz asks if he and Michelle have had a row already, but he explains about her upset tummy. Liz tells Amy to go and lie down on the sofa in the back room, and then tells Steve and Michelle that she'll call Violet in to work and she'll babysit so they can go out and enjoy the rest of their evening. "That'll be fab!" says Michelle. "You see I'm not a wicked witch all the time," says Liz. "Who said you were?" asks Steve. Liz just smiles and tells him to watch the bar while she rings Violet.

Doreen sits down with Rita and Norris. She tells them she's been to the council offices but had no luck. First she spoke to the young girl who didn't know what she was talking about, and then her superior didn't look any older than she was. "They sack anyone over 50 these days," mutters Norris, bitterly. Then Doreen tells them that eventually she was told that her house would be another month before it was fit to live in, the asbestos is now in the walls. "I don't know what I'm going to do," she says, looking at Rita. Rita tells her she'll just have to stay with her. Doreen says she doesn't want to impose, but there's no one else. "Now't else for it then," says Rita, but doesn't look too happy.

Michelle and Steve are just going into her flat when Liam appears with Ryan. It seems that Liam can't have Ryan at his house because Jamie has some friends in. "Why didn't you tell me this when I asked you to have him?" Michelle demands to know. Liam mutters that he forgot. "Not a problem is it, Mum?" asks Ryan. "No, not a problem at all," says Michelle weakly as he walks past her and on up the stairs. "Can you not take him to the pictures or summat?" Michelle asks her brother, but Liam says he already asked him and he's not interested. "Sorry," he says as he follows Ryan up the stairs. Michelle turns to Steve, "I wonder if someone up there's trying to tell us summat!" she says.

In the Peacock household, Claire and Ashley have just got the children to bed. Suddenly the sound of music fills their house and Freddie starts crying upstairs. "That is it!" shouts Claire and marches outside. Ashley follows her. "Don't do anything stupid!" cries Ashley, running behind her. Claire bursts in to the wooden building, where Darryl, Rosie and David are lounging about with music blaring. "Are you going to turn it down or am I?" she screams, "you've just woken Freddie!" David is his usual charming self, "Ahhh!" he says, mockingly. Claire rushes over to the stereo, unplugs it and carries it out. Darryl threatens to go and get his dad. "You can have it back when you've learnt some manners!" she says and she barges past him. Out in the garden she hands it to Ashley over the fence. Jerry comes out into the garden. "Is there a problem?" he asks, the voice of reason. Darryl tells him what's happened and Jerry suggests they all calm down and talk about it. "What so you can wheedle your way out of it?" yells Claire, "you can get stuffed!" Rosie and David look on from the shed doorway, with eyebrows raised. Claire shoves Ashley, telling him to take the stereo inside. Jerry tells Ashley to try and talk some sense into his wife. "Hello!" shouts Claire, "I am still here!" She says that at least now they're taking her seriously for a change. "If that's broken……" Darryl starts to say. "Then send me the bill," shouts Claire, "I'll pay you back straight away – in Morton time that is….tomorrow, next week, sometime, NEVER!" Claire shouts that there's been nothing but trouble since the monstrosity of a shed went up. "Get rid of it!" she shouts, "or I will – I will burn it to the ground!"

Annie Logan

We open in the Peacock household, where Ashley is tempting Josh with the thought of stopping on the motorway to get a burger. I'm assuming he means just off the motorway! Should a butcher be encouraging this sort of behaviour? It's no good asking Claire, because she's drying the dishes on autopilot, keeping an eye on what's happening in next door's back yard at the same time. Ashley tells her not to let the shed business get to her. "You know what you're like." Claire thinks he means she's a madwoman. "I never used to be this person," she tells him. Then takes offence when he says she's been on good form lately. Now she's offended to be spoken of as if she's a racehorse, and accuses Ashley of just saying it to make her feel better.

Leanne has been phoning around but can't find a villa for Dev. To make things worse, she has to watch the new, trim Janice eating cottage cheese (with pineapple). Leanne mutters that she should have just stayed in Spain and invested Danny's dosh.

Ashley puts Josh into the car and says goodbye to Claire and Freddy. Eileen comes past and Claire invites her to a girls' night in with wine and maybe a puttanesca. Eileen would say yes if she knew what that was. (I don't know if it's deliberate, but puttanesca is also known as "tart's spaghetti" and it was named after the prostitutes of Naples!) "Shall I bring a pudding?" Eileen asks. "I'd rather you left Jason at home," Claire tells her. Ash dries off and the Mortons emerge from their house. "Sound of silence," says Jerry grimly. "I know. Brilliant, i'n't it?" Claire says, pokerfaced.

Fiz meets Kirk as he approaches the pillar box with a fistful of envelopes. They have a slightly stilted conversation in which they establish that they're both well, and Kirk points out that the envelopes are job applications, not lonely-hearts ad replies! Fiz points out that he's wearing trainers from two different pairs and he takes offence, shoves the envelopes into the slot and stomps off.

In the Kabin, Norris is saying he might take pot luck at the Royal Exchange Theatre. He likes it there, because it's in the round and if he gets bored by the play he can watch the audience. Your updater can verify this, having been to this very theatre back in 2000 during the Coroping extravaganza, as some of you will remember! Anyway, Norris is interrupted by Doreen, bustling in with a tuna lasagne and other ready-meal goodies for tea for Rita and her. Once she's gone upstairs, Rita has a little moan to Norris about Doreen outstaying her welcome. She reaches for the phone and a piece of paper. Once she's through to the council she pretends to be Doreen and asks when the work will be done on her flat. "Beg your pardon? Right! Yes, I see! Well, obviously there's been some sort of mix-up! Sorry! Sorry! You're breaking up!" and she cuts off the call. "And you can shut your face and all!" she snaps at Norris. "Look at you. You'd have had a season ticket to the guillotine!"

Darryl, David and Rosie are in Darryl's car, music blaring, when Claire comes out of her house and fixes them with a classic steely glare. They're so busy joking about her that they're taken by surprise when Jerry bangs on the car and tell them to turn the noise down. "Yeah, well, if narky knickers hadn't've nabbed me stereo . . ." Jerry tells his son to shut it. He reminds Darryl that he said he'd sort it later.

In the pub, Kirk tells Maria and Tyrone about his encounter with Fiz. "Hang on," says Maria. "Let me get this straight. She pointed out you're wearing odd trainers but you've not been and changed them?" "What's the point?" asks Kirk. "Nobody looks twice at me."

In the kebab shop, Kevin and Jerry are moaning together about teenagers. Kevin points out that at least Sally's got Rosie tied to her revising at the moment. "She didn't look like she was doing much revising to me," Jerry says, telling Kevin where he saw Rosie.

Kirk wants to know if anyone's seen the film Breakup. He wants to know whether they get back together in the end. "No," says Maria. "That's why it's called Breakup." In another booth, Dev is boasting that he's about to become an IMP – international man of property! Liam assures him that Leanne won't let him down. Paul says he can't wait to see what Leanne will put out of the bag. "She's full of surprises."

Out in the street, Liz is on her mobile phone, presumably to Derek. She can't wait for him to see her new laundry. "No. Launjry! Underwear!" She has trouble hearing because of the noise coming from Darryl's car. Kevin apologises and tells Rosie to get out of the car. He looks at David. "What happened to you? Get jammed in a sunbed?" It either that or David has a very peculiar form of jaundice. He's a horrible orange colour. As Kevin and Rosie walk away, David flings himself back into the car, indignant at Kevin's comments. "This is just from chilling in the back garden," he tells Darryl. "Chilling int'back garden!" says Darryl. "You wouldn't get that chilling in Mozambique!" David says he's not lying. "Do I look like the kind of guy who'd go on a sunbed?" "Yeah." Oops. There's Claire and her steely glare again. Darryl turns off the music. He wishes he lived next door to some hot totty, rather than that moose. David points out that Claire looks a lot better since she got rid of her glasses.

Leanne approaches the Rovers looking very worried indeed. She stops outside.

Lloyd and Steve are cleaning one of the taxis. Steve is moaning about how difficult it is to see Michelle because of the shifts at the Rovers and at Streetcars. "Who sorts out the rota?" asks Lloyd. "Me mum." "And who owns the pub, kid, eh?" Steve has a brow of such expression that you can see light dawning!

Leanne still hesitates but, with a sigh, heads into the pub. Dev spots her and says this calls for a celebration. He orders champagne. Leanne looks anything but celebratory.

Claire's busy grating cheese on to dinner when the doorbell goes. Eileen answers. It's Jerry. "Sorry. Is thingy in? Claire?" he asks. Claire tells him she's just serving up dinner. "I'm waving a white flag here," he says. Eileen suddenly sees a need to take Freddy up to bed. Claire asks Jerry if he'd like a glass of wine. "Don't s'pose you've got a lager?"

"I don't really know how to say this, Dev, but there is no villa." Dev can't understand that. Of course there's a villa. "The reason being is because I've had to pull out of the sale." She gives him details of three property developers. "It's just I've got a few things going on right now that mean I can't close my deals at the moment. I would have loved to have closed this one for you, but there's just a bit of a complication right now." Liam asks her to expand on the reasons, but Paul says he's sure she's got reasons. "Why are you sticking up for her? You usually can't wait to slag her off," Liam says. Dev gets up to leave just as Violet brings over the champagne. "Charge it to the timewaster," he says. Paul looks at Leanne, just the tiniest hit of a smirk playing on his lips.

"On the table, sweetie," Doreen tells Rita. Rita wastes no time telling Doreen she knows all about the asbestos and the flat. "I know that the work finished ages ago." She tells Doreen she just happened to be speaking to someone on the council. Doreen goes into a pre-emptive strike, also known as a four-year-old's tantrum. She's sick of Rita sticking her nose in. She was sick of Rita stalking her in the troupe and she won't put up with it. She's packing her bags. "Ploo sar change, Rita! Ploo sar change!" (No, I know that's not how you spell it, but that's how Doreen said it) "Enjoy your chardonnay. And your lasagne. I hope it chokes you!" She slams the door behind her as she heads upstairs to pack.

Leanne takes a glass of champagne to Janice at the bar and says she thinks Liam and Paul are on to her.

Jerry tells Claire that Darryl's going through a period of adjustment. "So am I," Claire says. "Adjusting to having him next door living in a Wendy house." Jerry says Darryl is adjusting to having his parents split up, moving and starting a new business, and he's just a kid. "I know he acts all Don Corleone and that, but he's as soft as sugar, really." He asks if Darryl can have his stereo back. Claire says no. Ashley's away and she wants one night where she can get a decent night's sleep. Jerry points out that the equipment is not legally hers. No-one wants the bizzies involved . . . Eileen says he has a point. Claire says she fully intends to return the stereo tomorrow, after a decent night's sleep.

Fiz comes into the pub and Maria accuses her of leading Kirk on. "What you've got to remember, Fiz, is that when the world looks at you they see Fiz – red hair, overweight, bit of a laugh. But when our Kirk looks at you, well, he sees Cameron Diaz, doesn't he. And the slightest smile you give him lights up the screen." "Two things," Fiz says. "One, I'm not overweight. I'm average weight. But then your view is slightly skew being borderline anorexic. And two, I'd rather have a reputation for being a laugh than for being the local bike! See ya." Violet arrives with the drinks Fiz ordered for herself and Maria. "You were nearly wearing them," Janice points out to her. "I must be sending out a weird vibe tonight," Violet says. Nearby, Liam tries to defend Leanne, but Paul tells him he thinks Leanne is lying and Liam should find out why. Janice arrives, pointing out that Leanne paid for the champagne. Paul gets up and leaves, saying he'll leave Liam and Janice to play Happy Families.

Claire gets into bed, phones Ashley and leaves a message on his phone to say "night, night," opens her Marian Keys but decides against reading, turns off the light and settles down to sleep.

Violet can't wait for chucking-out time. Michelle tries to cheer her up by showing her a saucy text from Sean. She's next to someone called Michael in his phone and she often gets bizarre requests at all hours. Steve comes in with a rota. "We sorted the rota out days ago!" Michelle tells him, annoyed. "Violet can't do Thursday!" He explains why he's done it, but Michelle doesn't want any special favours for dating the boss. Liz, appropriately dressed to savour puttanesca sauce, comes through the bar to tell them she's just going out with an old school friend! Leanne comes back in and sits with Liam. He asks her directly what's going on. "Are you really a property developer?" She admits she hasn't been entirely straight with him. "I'm an ex-property developer. I've just been fired!" Her voice breaks but Liam's face lights up. He gives her a hug.

The smoke alarm wakes Claire. She turns on the light and sees smoke coming from under Freddy's door. She puts her hand on the door handle and it burns her. She screams. "Freddy!" Then grips the handle and opens the door. The flames flare up, throwing her back down the stairs. As she lies motionless, we see the mobile above the cot as flames roar through the room.

The End
Margaret Carr

(If they blame the fire on Eileen putting Freddy to bed I will be very annoyed. Of course Claire would check on the baby before going to bed)

Margaret left the update with Clare slumped on the landing, raging flames, heat, smoke and unable to rescue Freddy, we resume briefly at the same point before some light, but fairly unbearable relief.

Liz is redoing her makeup and a fag whilst Derek, with no shirt, a rather unacceptable sight on a Sunday evening, is spraying air freshener to hide the smell of the cigarette. And where does your wife think you are Derek? At home apparently - she has just started as a barmaid at the Red Lion. He reckons that this is a menial job for his wife - he obviously comes from a long line of unmarried mothers as it is clear that Liz is instantly upset. He tries to rectify it by pointing out that she is a class above - licensee and manager - but Liz is not falling for it. And then she claims to be only just forty plus - where there is a fine line between looking glam and tarty and she knows she is on the glam side of the line (well you could have knocked me down with a feather as they say).

Roy and Hayley are returning from choir practice and chatting inanely when they see the smoke coming from the end of the terrace. Hayley tells Roy to dial 999 and she Kirk and Jamie leaving "Mortons R Kebabs". Jamie wants to know if there is anyone in there - but no-one knows. Gail appears wearing a dressing gown (and presumably other clothing). Jamie decides that he must break in and starts on the front door (which gives way rather more easily than I hope my front door would give in). Gail and Hayley wonder if the Peacocks are in the Rovers (as if with two kids) and Gail goes into the pub - but finds no Peacocks. The regulars follow Gail back out onto the Street.

Inside the Peacock's, Kirk and Jamie find the slumped body of Claire and carry her out to the Street, ingesting quite a bit of smoke on the way. Outside Gail remembers hearing that there had been a plan to visit Alton Towers. Claire is put into the recovery position and someone else now demands an ambulance for the two lads. Eileen now appears and relates her earlier visit to the house - Freddie is in there somewhere and she sang him to sleep (poor lad - would you want a lullaby from Eileen? - you might run away if you had suffered that). Jelly Roll Morton has appeared from the kebab house (odd that none of his kids have noticed that next door is on fire) and hearing that there is a baby inside dashes in and tries to get up the stairs. He gets little further than the landing as the heat pushes him back - the house is now well ablaze.

Across the Street Blanche and Deirdre emerge and the latter looks slowly at the ever stronger flames and the lack of a rescue for the baby and turning she walks off down the Street with Blanche watching open mouthed, then asking where she is going. An answer came there none.

Gail sends David to wake Sarah and Bethany - she can foresee all of the houses catching alight. Roy tries to follow Jelly Roll but the heat stops him getting through the door.

Thank goodness - a fire engine and some nice strapping firemen - the girls will like that. With breathing apparatus they head inside and get Jelly Roll out of danger and then try to go upstairs - with no luck. The fire is simply too strong. Jelly collapses into Jodie's arms and weeps at his failure. With ambulance staff now looking after Claire Eileen and Violet agree to accompany her to the hospital.

Deirdre knocks on a door which is opened by Denise. The former says that she has not come to cause trouble and would like to talk to Ken. Denise is not sure but allows her to enter.

Back on the Street Hayley finds Roy sitting in the cafe in the dark. She gives him a drink to settle his nerves. Hayley tells the very shaken and grieving Roy how she used to suffer panic attacks before her gender re-assignment and how they had stopped afterwards. He asks her for a cuddle and she does it immediately and we are reminded of the love between the two.

Arriving at the hospital some strange woman starts behaving as if she is in "ER" and not Corrie and starts issuing instructions. Now I have never been burnt to death, but all of the A&E units I have visited over the years (and with my brood that seems inevitable) I have always been struck by how they are steady, patient, calm and there never seems to be anyone barking out commands for tests and x-rays and special services - however the writer clearly knows otherwise as a long list of essential tasks are enumerated. Attempts to contact Ashley are proving futile, although the continual sue of a mobile in a hospital also conflicts strongly with my own experiences.

Back on the Street Jelly is now receiving the comfort of his family and the fire brigade are finally trying to extinguish the fire (a good thing they removed that unexploded bomb a few weeks ago). And the baby is not yet even one. Then one of the firemen says they have to pull back - they cannot defeat the blaze. A young attractive police officer asks if there is any sign of a baby - but apparently not and the way the bedroom has burned there could not be a survivor. Kirk, Jamie and Jelly are put in an ambulance and taken off to hospital. Gail and Blanche look at each other - the loss of a baby is a mighty shock to all of us.

Over at Denise's flat, Deirdre has finally realised what she might have been doing to Ken and that she may have lost him forever. She was frightened by the fire and had realised that she needed him - immediately. He may get on her nerves and they might fight - but she loves him. Ken responded that he loves her too - but at the moment he also knows that he needs to invest time in Daniel. Deirdre says she was sorry and had acted immaturely - but then show any her any woman in Manchester who would be happy at their husband moving in with an ex! And once again they start arguing! Deirdre points out that she has no other children in which to invest. Then her phobile moan goes off. It is Blanche conveying the news about the baby which she passes onto Ken. She remarks how good Claire has been to the family - but Ken just sits still and says nothing, so Dreary turns on him for saying nothing and doing nothing - that must be his motto. You have to have some sympathy for Ken - as he says himself if he talks he is bang out of order and if he says nothing she has a go for that (Ken remember you wombat - she is a woman). She claims that he is entirely self centred and does not care about her and is not the man she married.

At the hospital the WPC we saw earlier is asking Eileen for Ashley's mobile number, but Eileen is in a state of shock, cannot provide the number and does not even look it up on her mobile. Violet finally grabs the mobile and hands it to the WPC to extract what she needed - it would probably be under Ashley. Eileen replays the evening - signing Freddie a lullaby and that she sounded terrible and the last thing the baby heard was not his own mother's voice. Eileen says what a terrible way to go - Claire is lucky to survive. And another thought - who is going to tell Ashley?

Back on Street the fire is out but still smouldering. Deirdre re-appears - Blanche wants to know where she has been, but Deirdre merely responds that she is fine. Summing up the situation she walks slowly indoors and re-appears with a Teddy Bear from Amy's collection. In silence she walks across the Street and places the bear on a little wall by the front door. She says "Sleep well Freddy. Mr Teddy will keep you company now. The worst is over. Night night." And we close deeply distraught at the loss of little Freddy, I say the loss of little Freddy.

Harrrowing I say, harrowing.

K Richard W

We start in the hospital with Eileen sitting at the bedside waiting for Claire to wake up. Then her phone rings, it is Ashley. Of course, he doesn't know what has happened. She just tells him to get home as quickly as possible.

Rita and Betty are chatting in the street as the fireman investigate the fire damage. Norris comes out of the Kabin and accuses them of gossiping, but Rita says they are just showing their concern. Norris is surprised because he has been told he is ghoulish when he shows concern. Rita tells him that it is because he is ghoulish ! Betty and Rita agree to put a collection jug in their establishments.

Back at the hospital, the doctor brings Claire round. She wakes up and immediately starts screaming for Freddy. Eileen goes over to try and comfort her. She tries to explain what has happened, but Claire just continues screaming.

Michelle and Steve meet outside the Rovers. They go through their schedules of when they have free time so they can meet together. Unfortunately when one is free the other is not. They are destined not to be alone together.

Ken arrives on Deirdre's doorstep. He wants to come in. Deirdre thinks he would have been surprised that she was in. She would normally be at work at that time. Ken says that he thought that she wouldn't have gone to work. He then tries to apologise for the previous night. She just bites back. Ken realises that she was in no mood for discussion and goes back to Denise.

Roy and Hayley are in the waiting area of the hospital. He has brought with him a flask of tea, he understands tea is not very good at the hospital. Eileen comes over to them to explain that she has just got hold of Ashley, but she hasn't told him about Freddy.

Janice and Leanne meet in the cafe. Leanne has been out all night with Liam. Janice said that she sometimes gets confused because she is often out with a client. They are joined by Liam. Janice has a dig by saying that he can afford to swan-around with nothing to do. Liam retorted that he is committed to his job. However, this commitment extended to taking Leanne out to lunch. Leanne realise that she has an appointment with a "client". Janice tells her to miss the appointment and go with Liam instead, but Leanne rushes off.

Ashley and Joshua arrive at the hospital. Ashley wants to know what has happened. Roy, Hayley and Eileen stop him going into Claire with Joshua. He hands Joshua to Hayley but then asks who is looking after Freddy. Roy stutters that they are all very sorry. Ashley turns to Eileen and asks her to confirm that Freddy is alright. Eileen tries to explain that they got there too late ... and before she can say anything more, Ashley wants confirmation that Freddy is not dead.

Roy is now complaining to Hayley that his flask is not keeping his drink warm. He says it is no use having a flask if it isn't keeping his drink warm. (I just love Roy, no matter how bad the situation he can refer to the most trivial of matters).

Eileen reassures Ashley at the bedside. She tells him that he has Claire and she has him, and that they both have Joshua. Claire comes round from the sedation and tells Ashley to go back to the house. Eileen suggests leaving Joshua as he had been upset enough for one day.

David sees Darryl in the street and suggests that he may have started the fire, and then tells him a kid died in the fire. Darryl denies it was any of his doing.

Ashley and Eileen arrive at the house, but the fire officer prevents them going in. At the time, a journalist tries to get a quote from Ashley, but Eileen warns him that she would flatten him. Jerry calls Ashley over and says that he can see what is going on around the back. Eileen helps Ashley over.

In the garden Ashley watches, and complains that nobody is telling him "owt". Rita tells him that everybody is thinking of him, and people are leaving clothes and money. Ashley remonstrates with himself as to why he went away. Ashley starts crying and hugs Rita.

Eileen holds back here tears. She tells Jerry that Ashley doesn't need her crying. Jerry tries to lighten the situation; he says she has been through a lot today and was entitled to cry a little. He tells her that he cannot fix everything, but he has something that has amazing healing properties. He then offers her a tin of chocolate biscuits!

Steve and Michelle are making plans for the evening. It hinges on Liz looking after Amy. Steve goes into the backroom to see his mother, but she is consoling Deirdre. He asks her if she has a minute, but is told to get out.

Deirdre moans at Liz about Ken. Liz says that he must be sorry if he came round. However Deirdre considers that Ken thinks Daniel is more important than their marriage. Liz says that Ken does have his responsibilities towards Daniel, but Deirdre wants him to feel as bad as she does.

Leanne comes into the Rovers, meets up Liam and orders a drink. She explains to him that she can only stay 5 minutes. Liam says that he hopes that she is meeting another woman, a straight one at that ! She then gives him a pound coin to put into the jukebox. While he does that she pops out of the pub. She rings the escort agency to cancel her appointment, and to tell them that she is quitting. She doesn't realise that the conversation is being overhead round the corner by Janice. She comes round to Leanne and asks what she is quitting. Leanne tells her "the job" . She gives Janice her work mobile, and Janice smashes it up.

Leanne goes back in the pub and Liam is singing "Ain't no Sunshine", badly. He tells her that he has arranged twenty songs to listen to while she is having lunch with her mate (twenty songs for one pound?!!). Leanne tells him she has put off her "mate" and they can listen together.

Back at the house a Detective Inspector Parks introduces himself to Ashley. He apologises for keeping him waiting. He points towards the bedroom window and asks Ashley to confirm that is Freddy's bedroom. Eileen tells him that Claire tried to rescue Freddy but the fire was too strong. The DI tells Ashley that they checked the room but could not find any evidence of the baby there. He believes that when the fire started he was not there. Ashley is very confused and doesn't understand what he has just heard.

Martin Rosen

Eileen and Ashley have just arrived back at the hospital- Josh is sat on the floor of the waiting room, surrounded by toys while Hayley is keeping an eye on him. Ashley appears in the doorway with Eileen close behind and asks Hayley if she is ok to watch Josh for a little longer. Hayley is more than happy to help and tells Ashley of course she will.

Ashley along with Eileen then go into Claire's room, she is in bed with an oxygen mask covering the most of her face, Upon hearing the door open, she awakes instantly and takes the mask from her face and turns to speak to Ashley. Roy had been watching over Claire as she slept, but sensing Ashley wanted to speak with his wife, Roy gets up out of his chair ready to leave. Claire presumes Ashley is going to tell her that the fire brigade have found Freddy- and she looks confused when Ashley tells her no body has been discovered, She looks towards Roy who is also wearing a confused look, so she turns her attentions to Eileen, who looks as though she is on the verge of breaking down in tears. Upon looking back to Ashley- he tells her that the police have spoken to him and said that Freddy wasn't in the house when the fire started. Eileen adds that her and Ashley thinks it must be a mistake, Ashley confirms this by saying "I saw what the house looks like- no one could have survived in there- there's no other explanation, they must have made a mistake"

Chesney is sat with Kirk over at the Battersby's- he's asking Kirk to tell him of his heroic story of how he saved Claire- Kirk doesn't share Chesney's enthusiasm though- he feels bad as they couldn't save Freddy too. Ever the one to look on the bright side- Chesney tells him as a hero he should get a medal from Buckingham palace and letters after his name for his bravery. Cilla joins the two of them and informs Kirk he should sell his story- "Don't answer any questions- we'll get you an exclusive with a paper or magazine- it'll be 4 figures minimum" Cilla has clearly tipped Kirk over the edge and he gets up to go out- Cilla isn't going to stop there though "They'll need a picture- I'll rub some coal on your face, make it look like soot- and you'll need a vest, make you look all muscly" - somehow I think it will take more than coal and a vest to make Kirk look muscly! Telling Cilla he isn't interested, Kirk leaves the house.

In the Rovers Fizz, Tyrone, Molly and Maria are sat round a table talking about Kirk- Maria is telling the gang how when Kirk was a child he was scared of butterflies "One landed on his knee and he ran off screaming" Maria gossips. Fizz is quick to stick up for her ex- "We might all be staggered by his bravery- but Bravery was what it was" and in walks the hero of the hour- Fizz jumps up and hugs Kirk, she tells him she is so proud of him- Kirk has a glimmer of hope flickering in his eye's at the chance of a reconciliation for him and Fizz.

Back at the hospital, Claire is sat up in bed demanding answers. "What have the police said?" she asks Eileen, but Eileen doesn't have the answers and Ashley sits on the bed and urges Claire to retrace her movements, she recalls Eileen taking Freddy to bed, then she says she went in soon after and kissed him good night- she admits she didn't put the light on but insists he was still there up to her going in her own room and falling to sleep. Claire is slowly becoming hysterical and shouts that she needs to see the police, Ashley tells her there isn't any point in speaking to them "Freddy's dead Claire- he must be"

On the street Cilla is walking across the cobbles to the scene of the fire- always thinking of how to make money she approaches a plain clothes police officer and asks him if he is a journalist, she's determined to sell Kirks story and take a nice little profit for her trouble! The man is much too polite to tell Cilla to get lost so he simply ignores her and walks away.

Lloyd and Steve are in the cab office- Steve is minding the phone while Lloyd rustles through a newspaper. In walks the love of Steve's life Michelle and Lloyd is swiftly asked to leave. Michelle has bought a bottle of wine and she is determined to have a great time with Steve regardless of where they are.

Liam and Leanne are all over each other in the Rovers when Carla joins them, She comments how she hasn't seen Liam so happy in years. And from one set of lovebirds to another- we are now over with Derek and Liz, although these two aren't so keen to show a public display of affection. Derek has bought Liz some flowers- but in order to keep their relationship quiet, Liz pretends that the flowers have been bought to lay outside the Peacocks home in memory of Freddy.

A detective inspector has arrived at the hospital to speak to Ashley and Claire, he is trying to keep a calm atmosphere, but Claire is getting more and more unsettled. The inspector tells the family he has just been informed that the fire was started on purpose. Ashley is angry at what's been said "Eileen put him to bed- Claire checked on him before going to bed- there was no-one else in the house!" The scene is interrupted when a police officer asks the inspector to step outside- The man comes back in and tells them that a baby has been found, in a park nearby, A couple walking their dog had spotted him. He tells them its a pretty safe bet that the baby is Freddy but they'll have to give him a check up at the hospital and go through a few formalities before Claire and Ashley can see their son, but they are told that the early indications say that the baby is fine and well.

Kirk is in the Rovers telling the regulars the tale of how he saved Claire's life- Liam and Derek are listening- but Liam has heard Jamie's side of events and can tell that Kirk is stretching the truth to make it seem as though he played the biggest part in the rescue and Jamie merely just helped. Either way though Liam says whatever happened it was a job well done and offers to buy Kirk the round of drinks he's just ordered "Oh brilliant thanks- can I make these drinks a pint then instead of a half" Liam replies- "NO"

At the hospital again and a nurse comes through the doors carrying a baby wrapped in a blanket, both Claire and Ashley shout with joy when they take one look at the babies face and realise its Freddy.

Liam is taking Leanne back to his house in the hope for more than just a cup of tea- but Leanne spots Janice and runs across the street to speak to her- Leanne wants to say thanks to Janice for talking some sense into her and finally making her see that the escort job was wrong- Janice takes the thanks but tells her she knows the real reason behind her quitting is Liam.

Fizz has arrived at Roy's rolls to meet John- he greets her with a serious face and asks if he can ask her a question, Fizz sits down clearly expecting the worse and John asks her how can you cut your nails on your right hand- Fizz smiles- If this is Johns attempt at humour, I can't wait to watch more of this new characters scenes- Not!! Hayley and Roy join them to fill them in on the fact that Freddy has been found safe and sound- Roy mentions Kirk's bravery and from there Hayley and Roy get back to serving behind the counter, John's face drops when he realises Kirk is the hero of the hour- he tells Fizz that the truth is all he can think about is her- but him sniffing around isn't fair on Kirk- he gets up to leave but Fizz blurts out that she's left Kirk and John sits back down. She explains that she knew they didn't have a future together, she knew she didn't love him- "the reason I knew is because I've been in love before- with you" John's face lights up and Fizz continues "and if you need a person to cut the nails on your right hand- then that person could be me" All together now- AWWWW!!

At the hospital the family of four are together on the hospital bed, Claire is clinging onto Freddy while Ashley and Josh are perched on the end, "I'm never going to let them go again" Claire tells Ashley, "You'll have to eventually" Ashley tells her- "They'll grow up, go to college and find some ladies" Claire looks at Ashley and asks him what's going on- "Someone did this to us"

Susan

No broadcast night due to Football.

Hello. Sorry about the delay but real life got in the way. There was no episode last Wednesday, because Liverpool went to Athens to see Milan, apparently. If you remember, we left Claire sitting in her hospital bed with the realisation that someone tried to kill her and took Freddy.

She's back home, now that it's Friday. Or at least, not home but staying with Eileen. Eileen's farmed out all her lodgers and taken them in. "You really did me a favour," she tells the Peacock family. "Jason's cleaned his room out of shame. You know, I found a hairball under his bed – I thought he had a hamster."

Over at the Mortons', I thought they were being interviewed by a newspaper reporter at first but no, it's the police. The efforts by Jerry to be diplomatic are undone by Darryl, who tells the detective frankly that Claire is loony and threatened to burn down his shed.

In the pub, Steve is standing behind the bar, dreamily staring at Michelle's back, when his mother comes through from the back and meets Deirdre, who asks if Amy is ready. She is, and she looks gorgeous, apparently. Liz has been braiding her hair. "She looks like a mini-Bo Derek." Deirdre's horrified. "How's she supposed to sleep with all beads stuck in her hair?" "That's exactly what I said!" Steve exclaims. Liz confides to Deirdre that she's going to the bar where Derek's wife works to check her out. Deirdre thinks it all sounds a bit "Fatal Attraction" so Liz invites her along to keep an eye on her.

Carla's in Janice's flat, watching Leanne put on her face. They're off shopping, though Janice points out that Leanne's supposed to be going easy on the spending. Carla thinks Leanne's got plenty stashed away. She goes to wait in the car and that gives Janice a chance to tell Leanne she can't hope to keep up with Carla. Leanne doesn't want to listen.

Claire's playing with Freddy. Ashley thinks her arms must be aching, because Claire can't bring herself to put him down. "I keep thinking ‘what if...'," she says. She doesn't want to close her eyes, but just to sit and watch Freddy breathing.

Liz and Deirdre arrive in the pub which is run by a Lady Victualler friend of Liz's. A fairly dull-voiced woman called Linda takes their drinks order. The landlady tells Liz that Linda's had a row with "him indoors". She's a bit of a golf widow and only goes to work for the company.

Leanne and Carla are in an Italian restaurant for lunch and Carla likes it so much she thinks of buying it. Leanne doesn't take her seriously.

"You can't stay stuck in here all the time," Ashley tells Claire, who's worried the gate might not be locked. "Ashley! Somebody tried to kills me! I can't just go walking round like I've not got a care in the world." She can't work out what she's done to make someone want her dead.

Deirdre's not happy. "It's like you're some sort of stalker! And smug with it," she tells Liz, who thinks Linda's not much of a catch. Does Linda's 20 years of marriage count for nothing once Liz comes along? "One shake of your tush and that's it? And you've got Vernon! Some people are just greedy!" Linda comes to collect the glasses and Liz makes conversation, asking if she likes working there and whether her husband is happy for her to work in a pub. "Right! That is enough!" Deirdre says. "You're enjoying this a bit too much!" Liz agrees to leave. Behind them, Linda confides to her boss: "I don't like to blow me own trumpet, but I think that tarty one was giving me the glad eye. Went out of her way to find out if I had a husband. Her girlfriend was not impressed!"

Leanne's put a mint into her mouth at the end of the meal, but soon removes it when Carla points out that studies show mints left in open serving dishes in restaurants have been shown to be contaminated with wee because so many people don't wash their hands after going to the loo. Carla's busy making plans for giving the restaurant a makeover.

"Oh! Hunk at two o'clock!" shouts Sean. He's spotted Violet's new boyfriend, Gary. Fiz is in a booth with the factory workers. When she gets up to leave, Cilla, nearby, chivvies Kirk into getting up to offer to carry Fiz's bags. She refuses his offer, leaving poor Kirky even more depressed. Cilla tells him she's just playing hard to get.

Kevin's visiting Claire and Ashley, but Claire's attention is on keeping alert for someone trying to get in. Jamie knocks on the door and Claire and Ashley welcome him. "If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be here," Claire says. Jamie reminds them that Kirk helped. Ashley is almost in tears as he tells Jamie that without him he wouldn't have a wife and his sons wouldn't have a mother.

John's visiting Fiz for dinner and she's fretting because the gammon steaks haven't defrosted. He tells her he'd be just as happy having a takeaway.

In the pub, Steve is still staring at Michelle, which makes her uneasy. Eileen warns that Michelle should enjoy Steve being fascinated by her now while it lasts. She tells Sean that people in love are all smug and unbearable, oozing all that happiness. She tells Violet she quite likes the look of Gary. Sean offers to give him the once over, checking that everything's in working order. Leaning on the bar are Carla and Leanne. Carla's still going on about the restaurant and it's finally dawning on Leanne that she's serious and wants the two of them to buy it, even though neither knows anything about running a restaurant. Carla tells Leanne to keep quiet as Paul comes in. He knows Carla is up to something but can't work out what. Gary's telling Violet and Eileen about his gap year. Eileen says she was just a bit older than him when she had Todd. Violet says she thinks it'd be wonderful to be a parent while young enough to still run around after the kids. "Don't you think so?" Gary's never given it any thought. He doesn't think he's cut out to be a parent. "Don't be silly! You'd be brilliant!" she tells him, saying to Eileen that she can just imagine a miniature version of Gary running around.

John's remembered Fiz's favourite takeaway treat after all these years – prawn balls. They both seem to be enjoying being together. Fiz says she hasn't laughed so much in ages and they comment how good it is that they still get on. Fiz thinks she took him for granted. "When things are so right with your first . . .er. . .well, you know, you think it's going to be that good with everyone. They agree they still "connect".

"Liz! Liz! Something arrived for you while you were out," calls Betty as Liz comes in. Liz looks at the pink feather boa draped over the furniture and asks what it is. "I'm saying nothing," mutters Betty, heading back out to the bar with a box of King Ted's Crisps. Liz picks up the boa just as a cowboy says from the doorway: "Mmmm mmmm! Pretty lady!" Yes, it's Vernon. He's bought Liz a saloon-girl's outfit to go with his cowboy outfit.

John tells Fiz he needs an early night! But he means he's got lessons to prep before school tomorrow. They discuss whether they're "seeing each other" without coming to any real confusion, and say goodbye with gentle kisses.

Gary is ready to go home and Vi tells him she's glad he's been approved by her pals because they're like family to her really. Gary seems very unsure whether that's a good thing. She asks if she'll see him tomorrow and he says he'll text her. Once he's gone, Violet goes over to the table where her "friends" sit. "He was all over me before. Has one of you lot said summat?" Steve tells her not to accuse them. "It's a wonder he stayed here as long as he did, with you banging on about babies all the time." Michelle tells Violet to ignore him, but Violet suddenly realises that's exactly what she did do.

Maria is walking home just as Fiz kisses John goodbye at the door. She mutters hello and pushes past them and up the stairs.

Liz holds the dress up against her, wondering if it's too small. At the mention of cups running over, Vernon is reminded that he has another gift for her, something really special that shows the whole world exactly what he thinks of her. "You've never bought me a diamond ring . . ." Liz breathes. She's right. He never has. He's bought a pair of Liz and Vernon coffee mugs with hearts. "Pound shop, Levenshulme Lane?" asks Betty, passing through. Two pounds each, actually. Liz shows Betty the dress. "You'll never catch me wearing nylon so close to the skin!" she declares. "I hope it's got a cotton gusset!" Vernon winces. Betty's just come to ask if Liz will be doing any work tonight. Vernon assures Betty that Liz will be otherwise engaged.

Maria tells Fiz she's being dishonest and should tell Kirk she's seeing someone else. Fiz says she and John have only just discovered they've still got feelings for each other. "And there's poor Kirk thinking he's still in with a chance," Maria spits. She's seen Fiz smiling at Kirk. Fiz says she's just trying to be friendly, but Maria says she's giving Kirk false hope. She should tell him about John.

Claire, tending to baby Freddy, starts to weep. She tells Ashley she doesn't know if anything will ever be normal again. He holds her and tells her: "The police will find whoever did this and they'll lock them up. I promise you!"

The End

Margaret Carr

I have now seen the British Soap Awards and can report that as expected Corrie was the Best British Soap with various awards for the actors playing Charlie Stubbs, Tracy Barlow and Michelle Connor, plus best story line for Tracy and Charlie etc.

Well done everyone.

Back on the mean streets of Weatherfield, the Peacocks are in overdrive - no sleep and instant concern once either child goes missing. Claire does not think she will ever sleep again. A little later the police turn up once again wanting to know if Claire has the faintest idea of anyone who might hold a grudge. The police reveal that they know details of the dispute with the Mortons and Claire rushes to Darryl's defence (why - he is waste of space). Darryl had said she was going to burn down the shed. Claire cannot believe they are serious and stomps off in total disbelief. Much much later she comes back downstairs and the police ask how things were on the day of the fire. She admits to a lack of sleep - and then the police raise the post natal depression. As the head policeman points out some people take many years to get over an illness like that - and Claire finally twigs that they believe she was responsible. She dumped her own baby in the park, returned home and set fire to it and wanted to burn to death? The policeman asks her to calm down, they have to investigate such possibilities - what says Claire, to ensure they waste time before looking for the real culprit. I used to have respect for the police, but now I would like you to go. Claire tells them they are wasting her time and should go and do their jobs.

Along the way Kirk is still in wallow mode. Come on Kirk there are better women out there than that Fiz - and Cilla says much the same telling him to get out pulling and Fiz will come running back. His phone beeps and it is Fiz and she wants to talk to him - and he will do whatever she wants.

Liz has just had a phone call from the brewery - another informal lunch, new licensees only ... and no partners. Vernon is entirely understanding and tells her to get taxis (since when could Liz drive?) - he wants the precious cargo home in one piece.

On the Street itself Carla runs into Leanne and Liam who says that they are now the new "Two Fat Ladies" - Carla is surprised, thinking it was a secret - and they are not to tell Paul as she does not want any business advice or jokes from that source. Leanne does not want to spend the afternoon with Carla - she has previous plans to which she cannot admit - but Liam is going to do the paperwork and so she has to meet Carla at lunchtime.

Fiz opens the door - Kirk is there with flowers and a bottle. She is not amused - Look Kirk we have to have a proper talk. I know he says, let me get this opened and we can get it all properly sorted out. He opens the bottle and pours before she can get a word out. She puts the glass down and starts to set him straight. She praises his good points but he reckons it makes him sound like a Labrador. Anyway she has not been happy for a while and is now she is seeing someone. What a therapist? No Kirk - a man. I am seeing someone else. He asks if this was when they were together - but no only since they split up. And nothing has really happened - but she wanted to tell him herself, not through a third party. Kirk hurt and unhappy grabs the flowers and heads out - she did not want to hurt him for the world - but for Kirk Fiz is his world.

Liz and Derek are at his brother's flat again - but Liz seems to be having second thoughts after Vernon being so nice. She asks if he feels guilty, he replies sometimes - but everyone is entitled to a bit of fun. But they have taken things a bit fast? Anyway conversation peters out in favour of action and given their ages we can only be glad that this is before the watershed ...

Carla and Leanne are consuming alcohol at a small bar in an Italian restaurant. Leanne reckons that even people who know what they are doing lose money from a restaurant. Carla said she was keen several days earlier - what has happened? Eventually Leanne is worn down and under pressure agrees that she is in - in principle. Leanne looks lost in thought - how we she get out of this - or find the money to get involved?

At least Liz and Derek appear mainly fully clothed when their passionate involvement is interrupted by a phone call from Derek's wife. Apparently the brother is on the way back from abroad and Linda (Derek's wife) is coming round with some grocery supplies - to the flat they are using. Oh dear.

At the Rovers Violet has had a message from Gary saying he wants to see her - she reckons she has been dumped - but Michelle wants to know what he said - mainly that things were moving too fast.

Tyrone and Maria find a distraught looking Kirk. He tells them Kirk is seeing someone else and he does not know how she has had time to see someone else so soon. Maria wants to know if Fiz has said who it was - but Kirk does not know. Maria points out that she was honest with him and Tyrone adds that he will get over it. They reckon he is nice, kind, and as Kirk adds skint and sharing his bedroom with a twelve year old. Not a good line really.

Claire cannot believe that the police would think like that (can we? almost certainly). Depression just cannot be seen - unlike a physical injury and then Claire realises that Casey had depression and that she must have done this. Casey trusted her and Claire let her down - she went off with Freddy and Claire did not know where they were. Casey would have a grudge - it must be her.

Derek and Liz have left the flat and see Linda around a corner unloading groceries. Derek says he will go out the back way but Derek insists she goes past Linda at the front, not realising Linda and Liz had met in the Red Lion a few days earlier. Liz puts on her dark glasses and sails down the steps as Linda goes up. Linda looks at her, then shakes her head - but did she recognise Liz - maybe, maybe not.

Maria arrives home to tell Maria just how upset her brother is. He adores you Fiz - swear that nothing was going on when you were going out with him (this is the Maria who was Charlie's bit on the side when Tracy knew nothing - when did she get to take the moral highground?). Fiz tells her she knows better than that and that she just wanted to be honest with Kirk and herself. Nothing has happened with John and Fiz has done nothing wrong. Maria sighs and smiles. Things are right between them again and they share a brew.

Outside the Rovers Liz gets a call from Derek - hopefully Linda spotted nothing. Vernon appears and wants to know if she has any food ideas from her lunch (empty plates as far as I can tell). Anyway Vernon is thinking of papering the bedroom - perhaps Liz would like to come upstairs and look at him samples. She says she would love to, kisses him and they depart.

The police return to be told about Casey - but given the lack of a surname or address (well the dog was called Millie) and no-one else had ever seen her, there does seem to be a lack of real evidence. The police are not impressed and leave. Claire is pinning her hopes on Casey - but to the rest of us it all seems a bit flimsy. You can tell the police are not impressed at all. Will this nightmare ever be over for the Peacocks?

See you all next week.

K Richard W

We start this episode in the Peacock's, where Claire is trying to remember every conversation she had with Casey. Ashley suggests they go out as it is a Bank Holiday (Spring Bank Holiday Monday in UK), however Claire says she is not putting herself at risk until the attempted murderer is caught.

Carla is talking to Leanne on the phone about getting the lease for the restaurant. She then realises that Paul is listening and tells him to go away. She tells Leanne that they need the money in six weeks. Leanne says she doesn't have £20,000 at the moment but could get it with that time.

Leanne then rings the escort agency and explains that she needs money urgently, so the more jobs they can provide for her, the better. Leanne conveniently repeats the conversation from the other end, because we can't hear the voice. The person obviously says "once a hooker, always a hooker". Janice overhears the conversation and asks Leanne if that was a saying in her profession. When Leanne says it is only for six weeks to get the money for the restaurant, Janice doesn't believe her. She tells Leanne that she would start another six weeks again to pay her council tax and six weeks to go on holiday etc. etc. Leanne storms out.

Norris and Rita are talking about Doreen. Rita says she would like to see her again. However, she tells Norris that as Doreen broke off the friendship, she can ring her. She doesn't want to discuss it any further.

Carla offers to take Paul for lunch and then explain what she was talking to Leanne about on the phone. She suggests they go to an Italian Restaurant.

Sally pops into Claire's and suggests they go for a walk. Claire is very reluctant, but Ashley persuades her to go for her own good.

In the Kabin Rita catches Norris flipping through her diary and noting something down. He claims that she left it lying around, but Rita thinks otherwise. She then snatches it away.

Derek comes into the pub and offers to buy Vernon a drink. Liz says that she can't stop as she has things to do at the back. Derek calls after her and makes the pretext about a possible problem with the last delivery. He manages to whisper to her that Linda knows.

Liam and Leanne decide to go out. However Janice remarks that Leanne may be seeing some mates during the day. Leanne quickly covers by saying that it was a tentative arrangement, and it was made before she knew what Liam was doing. Now they had decided on going out, that is what they will do.

The police come round to the Peacocks. The Detective Inspector asks Ashley to see Claire. Of course, she has gone out with Sally. They agree to talk to Ashley. However, he decides to take Joshua next door to Kevin. The officer confirms that Claire had told that she had had post-natal depression, but he has since found out that she was sectioned because she was a danger to her new-born son. Ashley explains that she was not well at the time, but she is alright now. The policeman wants to know how long Claire was in hospital. When Ashley says he couldn't remember, much to Ashley's annoyance he is told three weeks and then she was put on medication.

Norris scurries off to a phone box in the street, but we don't know who he is calling.

Ashley asks the officer whether they are going to continue to rake up Claire's past and confront her with it. The DI says they just want to help if she is still not well. He asks Ashley whether he thought could have started the fire after taking Freddy away. Ashley immediately says no.

Over at Roy's Rolls, Norris comes in and asks Roy if a lady has been asking for him. Roy queries in what time frame, and Norris says in the last few minutes. When Roy says no, Norris then orders two coffees and asks Roy to bring them to him when she arrives.

In the Rovers, Vernon has slipped out to the loo. Liz then asks Derek what Linda knows. He says that Linda asked him if he had taken anyone back to the flat. He denied it. Before Liz can ask anymore Vernon returns, so she switches the subject back to the delivery.

Sean tries to matchmake Violet with Jamie. He tells her not to thank her as he says that is what fairy godmothers are for !! They both look at each other in embarrassed silence.

Back at the cafe (Roy's Rolls), Doreen walks in. They immediately start arguing. As she gets up to go, Norris apologises and persuades her to stay. He explains that Rita is a stubborn woman. She will not ring to say how much she misses you. He suggests that she takes Rita out and get her drunk, and that would make her happier (wouldn't it make us all !!). He asks her not to mention to Rita that he had anything to do with it.

Violet tells Sean in no uncertain terms that Jamie is the last person she would want to go out with. She reminds him that they used to live together until he started going out with his stepmother. She tells him to keep out of her personal life.

Derek leaves the pub. Liz then interrupts her conversation with Vernon and slips out the back door. She catches up with Derek and asks to hear the rest of the story. Derek explains that he denied to Linda that he had taken anybody there, because she had no proof. Liz wasn't happy that Derek worried her unnecessarily and told him so quite forceably. She is just about to go back through the front door, when he reminds her that she left by the back door!

The Connor family are having a drink in the pub. Paul and Carla get ready to go off to lunch. Liam asks if he and Leanne can join them. Carla says no. The Leanne gets a phone call from the Agency. They obviously have a client for her. She turns to Liam and says he is going to hate her, but her sister Toyah has arrived in town on a fleeting visit. Leanne says she will just pop over and say hi and then come back. Liam suggests that he would come with, but Leanne (obviously) doesn't want him to come. She tells him another time. Liam starts querying that she is ashamed of him. She tells him not to start a row, says the quicker she goes the quicker she will be back. She then rushes out of the door.

Vernon tells Liz that he thinks Derek fancied her. Liz asks what makes him think that. He tells her that it is the way he looks at her, but then he looks at Violet the same way, so maybe he is just a bloke that fancies all women. This leaves Liz worried as it is the second suspicion within a short time.

Claire and Sally return from their walk. Claire sees the police car outside their house rushes over. She asks Ashley what has happened, seeing the DI standing there. He replies they just wanted to talk to you. Her first concern is for her sons. Ashley confirms they are with Kev. Claire turns to the officer and asks what he wants. He replies that he is arresting her on suspicion of arson. He then gives her an official caution. Claire stands there in silence.

Well will they put her in prison and throw away the key? Put thumbscrews on her? ...... Susan will be here with part two shortly.

Martin Rosen

The Police are just escorting Claire to their car, Ashley follows them shouting to let him come too. Claire is strangely calm and just tells him to stay at home and look after the boys while she's gone. Cilla and Norris are watching the scene a few meters away from where the commotion is going on. Ashley is livid "Is this a joke, she's the victim" he shouts at the inspector as he gets into the car. Norris and Cilla have joined forces and are gossiping about the Peacocks; "Has something happened?" Cilla shouts to Ashley, He turns to look at her without saying a word and goes back into the house. Cilla turns to Norris, "Something obviously has, Clare, butter wouldn't melt, Peacock has been arrested!"

In the Kabin, Rita is just tidying the counter, Norris comes in out of breath and asks her if she has seen what's happened at the Peacocks- Rita says no, but lets Norris fill her in. Norris comes to the conclusion that Rita is too upset to work after finding out what's gone on with Claire- he suggests they should shut the shop and go for a drink in the Rovers "Shut the shop?" Rita asks, she's surprised as usually Norris wants them open all hours "Midnight you'd like to stay open to" She doesn't put up any complaints though and she goes to get her bag.

Ashley has gone to ask Kevin and Sally if they can look after his boys longer while he goes down to the police station- He's filling them in on what has just happened, Sally comments that the whole situation is "barmy" None of them can believe that the police are using Claire's illness as evidence. Sally pushes Kevin to go to the station with Ashley, he looks reluctant at first but with Sally pushing him he eventually offers to drive Ashley in his car and stay with him when they get there.

Claire is in the interview room- she is offered a drink or to use the loo but she denies both. The police officer is about to leave the room when he stops in the doorway, "Claire, just remind me what your maiden name was?" Claire doesn't look unsettled with this question "Casey" she replies. The two officers present look at each other- but Claire sits calmly- not realising what the police are insinuating.

Liz and Vernon are in the back room of the Rovers, they've just finished their lunch when Vernon asks her if she still wants to get married. Liz says yes after a slight pause, so Vernon jumps in with "When?" Liz was thinking of some time next year- but Vernon has other idea's he was thinking this year. Liz looks for an excuse and settles on the fact it takes too much organizing, she then makes her excuses to get back in the bar, leaving Vernon deep in thought.

Norris and Rita have just got settled in the Rovers- Rita is suspicious of Norris as he keeps looking at his watch.

The interview has commenced. Claire is asked to confirm to the tape that she has refused a solicitor, to which she replies "Why would I want one, I haven't done anything" They bring up Claire's spell in the mental institution in September last year, Claire doesn't understand why they are using this in their enquiries, so the officer continues by telling her why she ended up in there, the fact that she tried to return her baby to the hospital, pushed it into a busy road and left it in the car in the middle of a park. They then push her into a corner by trapping her into saying she has stopped taking her medication, something the officer thinks she should still be taking.

Ashley and Kevin are in the waiting room, Ashley is confiding in Kevin that he is beginning to have doubts about his wife- he is reminded of the time she lied to him about her Mother having cancer. His loyalty is being tested.

Back to the interview and Claire is still being grilled by the police- she can't get through to the police that Casey is real and not in her imagination. They remind her of her maiden name and ask her to confirm that she was seeing a woman of the same name. They tell her the fact she has been poorly before will help her now- if she can just tell the truth. "We can get you the help you need" The officer says.

Paul and Carla are in the Italian restaurant, Paul doesn't look very happy now his wife has told him she's going to buy it- something he says she knows nothing about. Carla tells Paul who her business partner is going to be, Leanne! Paul looks too shocked to speak until a while later when he tells Carla he will put the money into the venture- "Leanne hasn't got a head for business" Carla is quick to turn him down as she wants her own independence, and him putting money into it, would mean he'd be the one making all the decisions.

Later in the Rovers Leanne, Liam, Carla and Paul are having a drink, Leanne offers to get the drinks in and thanks Janice while she's at the bar for keeping her secret safe, Janice has just left when her phone rings- its the agency, they want Leanne to meet another client in half an hour.

Doreen has walked in the Rovers and goes to sit with Norris and Rita- Norris goes to get her a drink while her and Rita makes peace with each other. When Norris re-joins them, the three of them are heard laughing across the Rovers. Norris goes home and leaves the two women to talk- Rita puts two and two together and realises it was Norris who got them talking again, Doreen tells Rita that she should hang onto Norris as he thinks a lot about her, this comment leaves Rita deep in thought.

Two guys have come into the Rovers and Violet finds one of them very funny as she spends time at the bar laughing with him- when Violet is working at the other side of the bar, the guy stops Sean and asks him if Violet has got a boyfriend. Sean tells him he isn't allowed to comment (He's still annoyed at Violet for having a go at him earlier for trying to push her and Jamie back together) the guy is put off and leaves. Later Violet apologises to Sean which leaves him feeling guilty for not being more helpful to the guy that asked about her. He tells Violet what he's done and although she looks annoyed she still gives him a hug and says she forgives him.

Ashley is still waiting for Claire at the station- he asks Kevin not to say anything to Sally- he doesn't want Claire to find out he doubted her, as he thinks it would hurt Claire more than anything else. Claire appears round the corner- her interview has finished- she pours out to Ashley how shocked she is that they have arrested her, Ashley keeps a brave face when Claire asks him whether he believes her story, when he nods, she makes him promise- he replies he does and Claire says that is all that matters to her. The episode ends with Ashley looking to the ground ashamed he has lied to Claire- he doesn't believe her.

Susan

Ashley is in the Street looking for Claire, who was not there when he woke up. Roy sees him and tells him that if there's anything he or Hayley can do to help, he only has to ask. Ashley then sees Claire come round the corner and rushes off. Claire stares at their burned house and tells him she wanted to go inside, but when it came to it she just couldn't. She wanted to get her diary to see if she'd put anything in it that might help them find Casey. Ashley promises to go and fetch it for her later, and takes her back to the Grimshaw's for breakfast.

Janice meets Leanne coming home from a night's work and tells her she ought to watch it, Liam isn't stupid. Leanne says that Janice knows she's only doing it to get enough money for the restaurant. She tells her she's just going to meet Carla later to sign the lease, but first she's going back to the flat to get a couple of hours sleep. Janice looks her up and down and tells her that one look at her like that and Carla would wonder what she's going into business with.

Carla is walking round her home wearing just a towel, strategically placed. Paul asks if she's aware of the fact that one in three restaurants go bust in their first year. Carla says she knows, and adds that he won't have too long to wait until he can tell everyone that he told her not to do it. He then asks her what she really knows about Leanne Battersby, she's unsuitable and she should trust his judgment. She tells him that HE should trust HER judgment..

Ashley is outside his house when Kevin comes along. He explains about Claire wanting her diary from the house and how she was missing when he woke up. Kevin asks if he's said anything to her about what he told him at the hospital. Ashley assures him that he hasn't, "She needs to think I'm supporting her," he tells Kevin, "not worry about what I might be thinking." Kevin offers to go in the house with Ashley and look for Claire's diary.

Liz is delighted to have received two tickets for the licensee's do, and asks Vernon whether his suit is clean. As he mutters that people don't really do suits these days, Steve butts in and says that he can do smart and it is his pub after all. Liz says that it's her name over the door, and then turns to Vernon and says that he has to wear a suit. Steve chips in, "But not the trousers, obviously. My mother wears those as far as you're concerned." Michelle thinks that Steve and Liz ought to go – a mother and son team. Steve tells Michelle that he rather hoped they could go together, but Michelle doesn't think much of that idea. Liz smiles and says it's settled then. She then turns to Michelle: "You'll be all right to look after the place on Sunday, won't you?" Steve protests, "Why are you asking her and not me?" Liz grins and says she's not the only one who wears the trousers round there.

In the factory, Janice is taking sandwich orders, but Fizz won't order, she's on a diet. Paul has a quiet word with Janice, telling her to tell Leanne he won't take kindly to her bringing his wife down. Janice replies it's nothing to do with her. Liam appears and takes Paul off for a word and Janice tells Sally she doesn't think he's too chuffed at the thought of Leanne going into business with Carla. In the office, Paul tells Liam he doesn't want to see Carla ripped off. Liam says they should let them get on with it. "That's easy for you to say," says Paul, "I'm married to Carla, but you and Leanne, it could all be over this time next week." Liam tells Paul he's fed up with the way he keeps having digs at Leanne. "What is it with you Paul?" he asks him.

Molly is walking down the street with Kirk. He says he misses the dogs, you know where you are with dogs. If they like you they lick you. They end up in front of the garage and Molly asks Kevin if he could give Kirk a job. Kevin asks him if he knows anything about cars, but Kirk doesn't. He says he wants to work with animals. Tyrone suggest the chippy (?) and when Kirk replies that fish aren't animals, Tyrone agrees, "But Cilla and Yana are," he laughs.

Carla and Leanne are in the restaurant, preparing to sign the contract. Leanne signs first, and when Carla has signed too she opens a bottle of bubbly. "Can we stop pretending now?" asks Carla as she pulls the cork. "Pretending?" asks Leanne. "Pretending we're not scared stiff," says Carla, pouring it into the glasses. She tells Leanne that Paul had another go at her that morning, she thinks it's because Leanne scares him. "I think he's scared you're going to lead me astray," she says. Just then Leanne's phone rings. After a few brief words she explains to Carla that she's got an appointment with her bank manager.

Ashley and Claire are in Roy's Rolls. Claire is obviously disappointed, there was nothing about Casey in her diary. Just then Sally comes up and tells them that no one thinks that Claire has done anything wrong. "We're all right behind you," she says. But Becky comes up beside Sally and tells her not to kid herself. "There are some folk round here who are right two-faced," she says. "Oh aye?" says Ashley, "like you?" Roy comes along then and tells Becky that Ashley and Claire are friends who have been the victims of a heinous crime. "I didn't do anything," says Claire, getting up and going out. Becky turns to Sally, "Well, she did go loopy after she had that baby," she says, and as Sally turns her back and walks out she calls after her, "and who's to say she's not gone loopy again?"

Jack goes into the Rovers and asks for a quick pint. He's supposed to be going to the shop to get teabags. As Violet pulls it, the young man who was asking about her the other day comes up to the bar, he's working a few streets away. As Violet pulls his pint, he asks if she'll join him for one. She accepts just as Sean, Janice and Kelly come in, so Sean offers to take over behind the bar. Over at a table Fizz is talking to Maria, wondering why John hasn't rung her. Maria asks why she hasn't rung him, but Fizz doesn't want to appear desperate, or a div.

Violet goes over to sit with the young man who bought her the drink. He comments that Sean seems a lot friendlier than the day before, and Violet confesses that they'd had a bit of a falling out. "Did he tell you I was asking about you, and whether you had a boyfriend?" he asks her. Violet says that he did, and as it happens the answer is no. She tells him she gets asked for her phone number all the time, but whether she gives it or not depends on who is asking.

Carla and Leanne are having celebratory drinks in a posh bar in town. Leanne asks her what she's going to do about Paul, he doesn't strike her as the sort of bloke who will take no for an answer. Carla tells her not to worry, Paul is her problem.

Claire is ranting at Ashley, asking how people can be such hypocrites. Ashley tells her not to worry about what Becky says. Claire asks Eileen if she'll watch the boys for a couple of hours and tells Ashley they'll go for a drive round to see if they can see Casey, she says the police are too busy trying to prove what everybody else thinks, that it was her. She says she's not going to sit around while everyone points the finger at her.

In the posh bar, Leanne goes off to the loo, and a man sitting by the wall gets up and goes over to Carla. He introduces himself as Frank Taylor. "Do I know you?" asks Carla. "Your friend does," he tells her, "are you two working?" "No," Carla tells him, "we're just having a quiet drink, or trying to." He asks if she's in the same line as ‘Rachel'. Carla says she doesn't know Rachel. "Your friend," he tells her, "or whatever she calls herself when she's not working." Carla tells him he's making a big mistake. He gives her his card and asks if she works for the same agency. "Agency?" asks Carla. He goes on to say that perhaps they can cut out the agency, more money for both of them. The penny starts to drop and Carla realises what has been going on. She suggests to Frank that they keep this just between themselves. "I've got your number," she says.

Back at the Rovers, Michelle tells Liam and Paul that they'll end up looking like Pavarotti with all the pasta they're going to be eating.

Fizz comes in and sees Kirk sitting on his own. He tells her he's had a few interviews and they all went really well. She's delighted to hear it and tells him to take care. After she's gone Tyrone turns to him and asks why he didn't tell her the truth. "It might have made her feel bad," he says.

Leanne comes back from the ladies and, catching sight of Frank, asks Carla if she fancies going on somewhere else. Carla tells her that Frank thought he knew her, said her name was Rachel. Leanne plays dumb, but says she thinks she'll get an early night.

In the Rovers, Steve tells Michelle that his mum and Vernon are snogging on the sofa like a couple of teenagers. (Yukk!) Molly comes in and hands Jack the baby monitor. Vera is sleeping like a baby she tells him. Steve suggests to Michelle that they might play them at their own game. Michelle says she'd rather keep it for when they're on their own. He says that's never, because they are both always working, and then she goes back to her lonely little flat and he's at the pub with ‘Ozzie and Sharon'. She says it's not a lonely little flat, it's a haven. He says he knows, he used to live there. "And one day you might live there again," she says, "maybe when Ryan has gone to university."

Fizz tells Maria that Kirk has got lots of jobs to choose from. Maria puts her straight, he can't get a job anywhere.

Leanne walks up the Street to her flat when she's accosted by Paul who tells her not to have anything to do with Carla and Liam. He tells her to name her price. She asks him what makes him think he's any better than her. She says she does what she does for money, but he's got a lovely wife and an agency on speed dial. He gets angry then and grabs hold of her and tells her it isn't over until she's out of his life, Carla's life and Liam's life. He storms off down the road.

Anne Logan.

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Updates written by K Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen, Ann Logan, Sue Haasler, Margaret Carr, Amanda Souter.

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