Michelle and Steve discuss Jim's early release from prison. Steve isn't thrilled about having to tell him mother and plans to take her out for lunch where he can tell her without interruption. When he later asks Liz to lunch she looks very confused and has no idea what he might want to discuss. Vernon even thinks Steve might ask his Mum to call off the wedding.

Rita and Emily discuss their plan to make Norris believe that Doreen has chosen to marry his friend George and not him. When Norris enters they suggest that he speaks to Doreen himself and lets her know he isn't upset that she didn't chose him and is in fact quite relieved, Emily and Rita think this will avoid Norris finding out that the whole thing was fabricated by Rita. (All very confusing I'm sure you will agree!).

Michelle bumps into Liam in the street and is quite keen to find out if she is going to be an aunty or not. Liam says he and Maria still haven't worked out what they plan to do yet. He then moves the conversation onto Carla and Tony, mentioning he is still "shacked up with his wife". Liam is also worried about that fact that they almost depend on Tony's custom to keep Underworld going.

Liam pulls up in his car outside Tony's house, as if lying in wait. Tony leaves his house and drives off in his car while Liam tries to remain unnoticed by hiding behind the dash bored of his car. As soon has Tony has left he goes up to the front door and rings the bell. He doesn't get a reply so snoops round the back of the house. He then gets a phone cal from Maria.

Jamie tells Violet's sister that they have got the flat they wanted and thanks her for lending them the deposit, even though it was Sean. She tells Sean and Jamie to go on ahead to the pub while she talks to Violet. She wants to know how long the lying has to go on for now they have the flat? Violets claims she will tell Jamie the truth but doesn't mention when that will be.

Maria discusses her pregnancy with Michelle, she's feels that she doesn't even know Liam at all really so how does she know how he feels about her and the baby. She phones Liam and asks if they can talk later when he has finished his "bit of business" which is of course snooping on Tony. He tells Maria to call round later. Maria complains to Michelle that Liam doesn't even sound like he wants to talk to her never mind anything else. Michelle tries her best to reassure her.

In the pub at lunch time Norris goes into see Doreen as Rita suggested and as advised lets Doreen know that he doesn't want to get married anyway, his past experiences have put him off. This is to give the impression that he isn't at all disappointed about Doreen choosing George over him (which she hasn't actually done). I hope your following this!?

Steve has chosen Leanne's restaurant for his lunch with Liz. He breaks the new almost straight away. Liz is surprised and a little concerned that Jim will turn up unannounced at the Rovers and throw his weight around in true Jim style. Steve tries to reassure her that Jim has completely changed and wishes her and Vern every happiness etc. Liz doesn't believe this is true it doesn't match with Jim's character at all. Liz admits that she's glad he's out of prison and that she does wish him well but doesn't want him back in her life in any way. Steve tries unsuccessfully to convince her he has given his word to stay away from her.

Rita and Emily arrive in the Rovers to Join Norris and Doreen. Doreen still looks a little taken back by Norris's earlier revelation. For once he offers to get a round of drinks in for the ladies. While Norris is at the bar George and Ivor arrive. When they are all sat down Doreen decides she wants to make an announcement. She tells everyone she has changed her mind and no longer wishes to get married again. Her reason is she doesn't ever want to have to depend on a man, she doesn't think any of them are dependable. She promptly leaves after that saying "I don't see the point in sitting about here with a group of no bodies".

At another table in the Rovers Jamie Violet, Lauren and Marcus are enjoying a drink. Lauren makes so many cryptic comments that Jamie has to ask what's going on. Violet comes clean and tells Jamie that Sean leant them the money for the flat deposit and not Lauren as she lead him to believe. Jamie insists they must pay it back as soon as possible as he didn't really want Sean involved anyway. Lauren seems to find the whole thing rather funny.

When Maria and Liam meet up they obviously discuss the pregnancy. Maria says she can almost see what Liam is thinking and that she knows he doesn't really want a baby and for that reason she is going to have an abortion. Liam sort of nods in agreement and lets her know he will be there every step of the way.

When Liz and Steve arrive back from lunch, who should be sat there on the street bench but Jim. Liz has very few words for him and goes off into the Rovers. Steve feels a bit put out as he has spent the last hour telling Liz how he'd promised to stay away yet there he is. Jim claims to be there just to reminisce and nothing more. Inside Liz has told Vern about Jim's arrival. He offers to do the protective man thing and go out and warn him off. Liz says there's no need but is very shaken and worried about what may happen next. She has " had nightmares about this day" she says.

Erica Houston

Hi everyone ! Amanda has a few problems to sort out, so I have been unearthed from the woodwork to provide tonight's update. Incidentally I notice the nights are getting colder here, and even during the day there is a chill in the air. That can only mean one thing ........... it is getting nearer Christmas (Hanukkah). If you would like to buy all your hard working reporters a gift each, then please send them all to me .... I will look after them ;-) , and pass them on when I next see them all - of course if I don't see them; well you know they will be in safe hands :-D

Okay, fun over, let's get onto the serious business of our favourite soap opera.

It started off with a couple of new guys in town. They are the new owners of the bookies. Lloyd is first to spot the 'Under new Management's sign in the window. He takes no real notice and continues into the Streetcars office

Maria meets up with Liam. She thinks she has decided what she is going to do. Liam asks if she needed anything, she replies that she would like him to come with her. Also he shouldn't tell anyone else because she is a bit embarrassed by the whole thing. He agrees to come along. As Maria goes into the salon, Liam bumps into Michelle. She refers to him as "Big Daddy", but Liam asks her not to mention because Maria is having a termination. He tells her that it was a joint decision.

Jason is off to the doctor's, hoping to get signed off and be able to get back to work. He tells Gail that once he is earning again he will be able to pay everything back. Sarah kisses him goodbye and wished him luck. David seeing all this is not very happy.

The two new bookies are outside their shop. The older guy's phone rang. He gets into a heated conversation with his lawyer about his wife's use of a car.

Over at the Rovers, Vernon is worried that Jim may turn up at the pub. Liz tells him not if she has anything to do with it. But Vernon says that some of his family are at the Rovers. His son, Steve and his granddaughter, Amy.

Liam is sitting in his car outside Tony's house. Suddenly there was a knock on the window. It was Lindsey, Tony's ex, who wanted to know what Liam was doing there. We wait to find out.

Next is in the office of Street Cars. Lloyd is over the moon that the bookies has changed hands. He tells Steve it is like the bank losing your records and asking how much overdraft do you owe ?! Steve reminds him he owes them £400, but Lloyd tells Steve that he owed the previous bookie, Stan the money. Steve thinks that Stan would have sold on the debt. Lloyd confirms that he is not going over willingly to pay them the money.

Back at the car, Liam is defending himself, by saying that they are about to do a lot of business with him and he is going out with his sister-in-law, so he came down to check him out. She wonders what he expected to find there. Liam reminds her that she called him a womaniser and a liar. He asks her again, should he be worried about anything he does?

Dan, the younger of the two bookies turn up at the office of StreetCars. Lloyd goes to the counter asking him where he wanted to go. He says he was there on business and he wanted to speak to Lloyd, because he owed him some money. Lloyd pretended not to know who "Lloyd" was. The bookie walked out, mentioning that he was over the road.

In the car, Lindsay warns Liam that Tony is very possessive. She warns him that Tony will chew Carla up and spit her out when he is finished! Lindsay believes that he still loved her, and that he would come back to her.

We cross back to the bookies office now. Dan tells his father about his encounter. He realised that he was talking to Lloyd. He felt that Lloyd wanted him to know that he was lying. His father told him not to do anything silly, and he should keep the peace.

To the park now, where Steve has taken Amy to meet Jim. He was pleased that Steve had settled down (so he has!). He hoped that he as grandfather could play a part in her life. Steve was a bit reluctant, saying it affects his mum and Vernon.

Liam returns to Underworld and tells Carla that he had been checking out Tony. He told her that he had met Lindsay and they had a very interesting conversation. Carla blew her top! She wondered what gave him the right to do this. She thought he maybe "offended" by the amount of work he has given the company. She goes on that instead of actually doing any work, he goes around and lurks in the bushes. After a few minutes of ranting, Liam asks if she has finished. She replies, that she is just warming up.

Dan from the bookies goes into the Rovers. He introduces himself to Michelle asking her if she knew Lloyd. When she confirms she does, he asks what sort of person he is, if he is a fighter or not. She considers him a teddy bear (called "Lloyd" !!) She is worried that he is going hit him. Dan says he isn't, but just wanted to find the best way to persuade him to give him the money that he owes.

Liz is talking to Deirdre and Ken (making a rare appearance these days), that she is worried that Jim will turn up. She thinks she may return to smoking because of the worry. Ken was pleased that she had the willpower not to do so, but Deirdre offered to bring a packet around to her.

Back at the factory, Carla is still laying into Liam. She asks what he saw. He says it is not so much what he saw, but what Lindsey told him. Carla retorts that anything she says would not stand up in court. Suddenly the office door opens. It is Vicky asking if it is alright for them to go to lunch. (Do they normally ask to go for lunch, at lunchtime?).

Gail sees Audrey and asks her if she is going to join her and Sarah for lunch. Audrey says that Maria has some problems that she wants to chat about, so she will eat with her at the salon. Audrey then mentions that Steven had rung her again. She tells Gail that he is coming for a couple of weeks. Gail says they had better make plans for Christmas then.

Eileen asks Jerry if he fancied a quickie in the Rovers (I think I had better rephrase that - Eileen asked Jerry if he would like to join her for a quick drink in the Rovers). He said he was too busy in the shop, but he would join her later. Eileen hoped it would be for something special !

Lloyd goes into the Rovers and hears a voice call his name. He turns round and it is Dan. Realising he has been sussed out, Lloyd said he was having a joke with him earlier on. But when Dan asked again for his £400, Lloyd said he paid the old bookie, Stan. Dan once again doesn't believe him, and this time tells him so. Lloyd suggests that Dan rings Stan to confirm it. When Dan says if he is lying he will punch his teeth, Lloyd changes his tune, and said he was only joking for a laugh. He promised to come in and sort it out.

Over in the park, Steve says to Jim he must get Amy back home. Jim thinks it is because Steve is worried that Liz will find out. Steve promises to tell her. Steve promised to call him soon. Jim let out a big sigh (so he did!). They then went off in their separate directions.

Liam and Carla are still arguing in the factory. Liam claims that they are in too deep with Tony. Carla believes he is saying this because he is jealous. She tells him that he doesn't own her because they kissed. Liam struggled to remember what this what about. But Carla says that she understands how his little mind works. She confirmed that there is nothing between her and Liam. They continue arguing. Suddenly Liam stops and tells Carla that she is welcome to Tony it will be like two nutters together. Just as he was about to leave, Carla shouted about the truth hurting to Liam. He slammed out of the door and didn't look back.

Liam rushes over to the salon to see Maria. She tells him that she will be on her lunch break in 5 minutes. He said he would come back, but as he reached the door he turned around and called to Maria to marry him. Both Audrey and Maria looked shocked and surprised. He then goes down on one knee and says that he has just had this moment of clarity, and want to marry her. Audrey and Liam and Liam and Maria all looked at each other. Nobody knowing what to say first.

What does she say? Stella will be right along with the answer. (Clue - it was either yes, know or maybe !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Martin Rosen

Back in the salon, Maria is still asking Liam about his sudden proposal. She's rightly confused by his sudden change of mind from agreeing to a termination this morning to them getting married and having a family together. She wants to know if he'll have changed his mind again by the evening. He says he never changes his mind once it's made up. "Even when you're wrong?" she wonders.

Becky has arrived back after a smoke break at the cafe to help Roy out in the busiest period of the day. While Roy asks her to limit her smoke breaks during the busy time, David, the little sneak, pick up her mobile from the counter and slips it in his jacket pocket. Becky doesn't notice.

Liam tells Maria, back at the Salon, that she's thinking too much. Maria argues that this is a big decision and she needs to talk about it. Liam tells her to trust her instincts. Maria says her instincts are usually wrong. Liam says she should forget her instincts then and trust him. Maria is still not convinced and mentions again how he has swung from the termination to marriage and a family. We're left with Maria still being reassured by Liam that they're going to make a great family.

Outside the bookies, Steve meets Harry Mason for the first time. He talks to Steve about his son who'll be running the bookies. He's not very good with business apparently and has a history of running businesses into the ground. Last belly-up was a bar. Harry asks Steve, "What kind of idiot buys a pub?" Steve laughs and tells him about the Rovers. He tells Harry Liz runs it and when Harry asks incredulously, "You bought your Mum a pub?" Steve answers, "You bought your son a bookies....." Eileen happens along to say hello. Steve tells Harry that Eileen is a good worker. Harry offers Eileen a 10% pay rise with no work after 6pm or Sundays. Eileen accepts but Steve tells her he'll chain her to the radiator before she leaves Street Cars and then orders her to work. She tells Harry, "See, I'm just, I'm just too weak to break away....." and heads off to work with a smile.

Liam and Maria are still hashing it all out at the Salon. Maria tells Liam he doesn't have to feel guilty but Liam tells her it's not guilt and that he wants a family. He tells her that even if she wasn't pregnant though, he'd still want to marry her. Maria asks him if he loves her. Liam answers, "I have a rule. I only propose to women I love." Maria goes all soppy.

Liz and Deirdre are having a smoke (tut tut, ladies!) at the back of the Rovers. Liz is telling Deirdre that she's been waiting for Jim to turn up and start messing things up all day. Deirdre tells her that Jim might have changed. Liz tells her that she's the one who's changed; she's happy and she's marrying a man who loves her. She wishes Jim would go and start his new life elsewhere.

Liam and Maria again. Liam says,"I don't want to pressure you but the clock is ticking and I don't mean to brag but I am a pretty good catch." Maria says she never thought this would be the way someone would propose to her. Liam goes off on a tangent about romantic ways to propose but Maria stops him wittering on and on by telling him yes, she will marry him and have his baby. Awwww!

In the cafe, Becky is frantically looking for her phone. Roy suggest she dial it to see if it rings. To his chagrin she takes some change out of the till and uses the payphone in the cafe.

Outside the Salon, Audrey is waiting patiently until she can go back in again. She's delighted to hear about the engagement and tells Maria and Liam that they make a lovely couple. They take advantage of Audrey's good mood and Maria asks for the afternoon off. Audrey tells her she can go home and celebrate. Maria and Liam both give Audrey a hug.

Tony Gordon shows up in the street in his car and shouts to Liam He takes Liam to task about sneaking around behind his back earlier in the day. When Maria asks him what that was about he tells her not to worry about it and they go into Liam's house.

At Underworld, Carla is asking Tony why he's not more upset about Liam checking him out with Lindsay. It seems though that he's perfectly willing to believe that Liam is checking him out because of their business dealings and tells Carla that he's done the same in the past. He wants to make sure that Carla doesn't believe anything that Lindsay has to say because she tells lies about him. he wonders if they have a problem. Carla tells him that there's no problem between him and her, she's just tired of arguing with Liam, she's tired, full stop. Tony gives her a kiss and tells her to rest before he leaves. Carla is left looking decidedly unimpressed.

At Liam's house, Maria is putting on her jacket and Liam comes down stairs in a dressing gown. Oh right, they were "celebrating"! Maria asks him again if he's sure, if he hasn't changed his mind. Liam tells her he definitely hasn't and won't. Maria heads off to get changed at her flat and also grab some cans to celebrate with later. At the mention of cans, Liam tells her he knows he's going to enjoy being married to her.

Jerry and Eileen come into Jerry's living room. Eileen is all dressed up and soon finds out she's got nowhere to go. Jerry tells her instead of them going out, he's got cakes and cava- classy!- and they'll be staying in for evening with the kids. As Jerry goes into the kitchen Eileen curls her lip behind his back- not happy!

David is gaming in Gail's living room as Sarah and Jason head out for the evening. David picks up Becky's phone and texts something to Jason with an evil grin. Outside, Jason's phone beeps and when he sees the message from "Becky" has a little laugh. Sarah wants to know who it is. After some coaxing, he tells Sarah that it was Becky that texted him. Sarah gets upset and stomps off into the pub.

At the Mortons' Eileen and Jerry are squished onto the yellow sofa with Kayleigh who is being a right little madame. Eileen is rolling her eyeballs as Jerry argues with Kayleigh about what they're watching on telly.

Oh dear, in the Rovers, Sarah is reading the text from "Becky" and is very unhappy that it contains three kisses. "One kiss, that's just being friendly. Three kisses means something," she says. Then she's all sad and hungry and they leave to grab a kebab. Becky sees them as they walk out and Sarah enigmatically says to Becky, "Not funny!" Becky, of course, has no idea what she's talking about.

At the bar, the young bookie is talking to Michelle. He tells her that he's doing his old man a favour and that Harry's bought the bookies to hide money from the wife who's divorcing him. Michelle enquires about how he's managing the Lloyd situation. He tells her that he thinks the "softly softly" approach is usually more successful in these instances. But, he thinks that the "up front" approach is the way to go when dealing with beautiful women. He asks her what time she knocks off just as Steve comes in and overhears him. "You must be Dan, son of Harry," Steve says. When Dan turns to talk to him Steve introduces himself, "Steve McDonald, owner of this here boozer and the cab firm across the road. And, loving boyfriend to the woman you're currently chatting up. First your dad tries to nick me staff and now you are trying to cop off wi' me bird!" How I love Steve! Michelle protests at being called "me bird" and Steve chooses to right it to "girlfriend". He tells Dan he's got a lot to learn and Dan backs off.

At Liam's the door knocker goes and it's Carla. She comes in and apologises for earlier. Liam apologises too. There's some talk of buttons being pushed between them which Liam interprets entirely differently to how Carla meant it. They talk a bit about Tony and how he's not bothered by Liam's snooping. The Carla tells Liam that Tony wanted to go out but she didn't feel like it. She settles in for a drink with Liam who looks slightly uncomfortable.

At Gail's Sarah and Jason are still arguing about the three kisses.

Outside the Mortons', Eileen is going home early. She tells Jerry she can't be a surrogate mother to his kids. She wants to be a Jezebel and a floozy instead. She magnanimously tells Jerry that he can tell people that he dumped her but Jerry just hopes that they can still be friends. Eileen is surprised and maybe a little disappointed that Jerry is not more upset. "No hard feelings?" she asks and is left confused as Jerry goes back in to shout at the kids.

At Liam's Carla is getting stuck into a glass of wine and is relaxing on the sofa. She tells him she knows that she's been a little bit mad since Paul's died. She says she feels like she's falling through space waiting for somebody to catch her. She elaborates further, "Then out of all the confusion, suddenly, just for one second, everything becomes clear..." Liam excitedly tells her that the very same thing happened to him that afternoon and goes on to tell her that he and Maria are getting wed. Just as he tells her, Maria comes to the door. Carla is visibly disappointed behind his back but she pulls it together- just- to congratulate them. Carla refuses a celebratory drink with them and says goodnight. Outside she calls Tony to get together with him. She tells him she's done a bit of thinking and she's decided it's time to move on. She asks him to come and get her from outside the factory.

Stella McLoughlin

Jason is walking down the Street, listening music with headphones in his ears. He lets himself into the house, closely followed by David, who creeps in behind him. Seeing the MP3 player and Jason's phone on the table, he takes the phone and makes a quick exit.

In the factory, Liam walks into the office to find Carla nursing a hangover. He tells her to make sure she's wearing sunglasses if she sees Maria, she's just picked out a large engagement ring. Carla says she was drinking to keep up with Tony G. "Tony G?" queries Liam. "Tony Gordon," Carla explains. Liam says he knows who he is, he didn't realise he'd turned into a rap star overnight, and had greased his way back into her good books. She tells him that Tony has told her lots about himself and the things he's done, and the things Lindsey said he's done. She says that Liam's snooping did some good, it's cleared the air. "Every cloud, eh?" says Liam, but he looks far from happy.

In the salon, Sarah and Audrey are talking about Maria's new ring. Just then David comes in and hand Sarah Jason's phone, saying he found it on the path outside. He offers to bet a fiver that Sarah won't last an hour before she reads Jason's texts. "As if," says Sarah, "we're not all paranoid you know."

Tyrone makes Vera and Jack a plate of sandwiches. She tells him that she's going to cook a nice roast dinner later, and asks Jack if he got the sherry for the trifle. Tyrone jokes that they're buttering them all up so they can raise the rent. After he's gone off back to work, Jack tells Vera he doesn't know how they're going to take it. Vera thinks they'll be glad to see the back of them, they're two old codgers.

Liam arrives at the bus stop, and is talking to Amber when he notices a blue car across the road. He asks Amber if she recognises it, he's sure the driver is watching them. Amber, eating sweets, jokes that it's her dentist checking up on her. Just then the bus arrives and they get on it.

In the cafe, Bill orders two coffees, but gets impatient because Becky is taking ages to get the milk. Roy has to tell him the coffees are on the house to stop him going elsewhere. When Becky comes in with the milk, Roy charges her for the coffee, telling her that from now on she's going to pay for every customer she loses. Becky is going through agonies because of her lost phone, her auntie is ill, she entered a competition, and, worst of all, she gave her number to a fella last week – what if he phones. What if they all phone? Roy tells her it's a dilemma but she should debate it in her own time.

In the factory, Carla asks Liam if he's set a date yet. "Is it going to be months, years, what?" she asks. He tells her he's not really considered it. Carla starts asking him how he came to ask Maria to marry him, but Liam is on the defensive. "You're very interested in the ins and outs," he says, but she replies that she's just planning on what she's going to wear. "So you're planning on coming then?" he asks, adding that he's never thought she was much of a fan. Carla tells him that Maria won't mess with his head and won't bleed him dry, she's good wife material, and he will make her very happy.

David is in the back room of the salon, making tea and putting Becky's phone back in his pocket. As he walks through with the cups, Jason's phone buzzes on the desk. Audrey asks Sarah if she can't turn it off, but Sarah doesn't want to in case Jason phones it. "Why on earth would someone ring their own phone?" asks Audrey. "To see if someone else has found it," says Sarah, going to pick up the phone. Audrey comments that she thought she wasn't going to check up on him, and Sarah says she isn't, she just thought it might be something important. She picks up the phone and studies it. "Jason, what's going on?" she hisses.

Bill and Jason are in the office at the yard when Sarah storms in. She waves his phone in front of Jason, "Do you recognise this?" she shouts. Jason agrees it's his phone. "With a bunch of kissy-kissy messages from your bit on the side!" Sarah continues to rage. Jason looks astounded, "What?" he asks. Sarah tells him not to act daft. "Who's acting?" quips Bill, but is ignored. There's no stopping Sarah, she points out that they haven't even finished their wedding cake and he does ‘this' with ‘minging' Becky from the caff. Jason protests that he hasn't done anything, but Sarah reckons she has all the proof she needs, having seen all the messages on his phone. She then storms out again, with Jason following, still protesting that he doesn't know what she's talking about.

Lloyd pulls up in a taxi outside the taxi office. Steve hails him and tells him to get the float, so, leaving the engine running and the driver's door wide open, Lloyd jumps out and goes in to get it. The Dan Mason, son of the new bookmaker in the Street, sees his chance and jumps into the cab and drives it away. Lloyd comes out of the office and stops in surprise, and then calls to Steve, who comes out. "What's going on?" he asks.

Sarah is still in furious mode and is heading for home with Jason still behind her and still protesting his innocence. She lets herself in while he stops in the doorway, imploring her to listen to him. Sarah slams the door – on Jason's hand!

Ryan is walking along the road, beside his wheel-chair bound friend. As they approach the bus stop, Ryan notices the man in the blue car that always seems to be around.

Jason is bathing his hand in a bowl of iced water while Sarah grudgingly apologises. Jason tells her she's apologising for the wrong thing – he told her on their wedding day that she was the only one he loved. Sarah still has Jason's phone in her hand, however, and is trawling through the ‘sent' box to see how many texts have gone to Becky. There seem to be a lot. She starts reading them out, but Jason swears he never sent them. Sarah doesn't believe him at all, and storms out again.

Lloyd is on the phone to the police, reporting the stolen taxi when the young man who took it comes across the Street, waving the keys at him and Steve. He tells them that he doesn't want any trouble, but Lloyd owes him money. Lloyd insists that it's Stan he owes four hundred pounds to, and the car is worth five thousand, not to mention the fares he's losing. Just then, Harry, Dan's father comes across to join them and asks his son for the keys. "You do owe us money, right?" he asks Lloyd. Lloyd agrees. Harry gives Lloyd the keys back and says he's got until Friday to pay up. "Go and drive your cotton socks off," he tells him.

Father and son walk back to the bookies, with Dan not at all happy, he feels his dad has made him look stupid. "Why did you bring me into the business?" he asks, saying that every time he shows some initiative he gets the rug pulled out from under him. His dad tells him to play the long game, but if Lloyd doesn't pay up this time he'll send Dan round to break his legs.

Tony Gordon wanders into the office at Underworld, where Carla and Liam are working. Carla tells him Liam's news, and Liam remembers that he hasn't told Michelle yet, and rushes off to the pub.

Sarah and Jason are still at loggerheads. "Don't treat me like I'm stupid," she tells him, "even if you haven't done anything you've got to admit it looks bad." As they argue, David comes in and smirks when he hears what's going on. "She's got your number," moans Sarah. Jason points out that he's a builder, half of Weatherfield have his number. Sarah is still adamant that the evidence of his infidelity is there in black and white. "What am I supposed to think?" she cries. "For better, for worse," says Jason. "Till text do us part?" sniggers David. Jason heads for the door. "Where are you going?" asks Sarah. "I can tell you where I'm not going," he retorts, "Becky's! But will you believe me?"

In the pub, Liam is talking to Michelle. "News?" says Michelle, "oh Liam, you've not split up with Maria?" He tells her she couldn't be more wrong, he's proposed to Maria! She's delighted and hugs him, but sheds a tear, reminding him that if Paul were there he'd be ordering champagne right now.

As if on cue, Tony,Carla and Maria come through the door, and Tony starts calling for champagne! Liz gets the champagne, Michelle hugs Maria and Tony and Liam argue over who's going to pay for it. Maria then declines the champagne, telling them that the engagement isn't the only thing they're celebrating. "You're pregnant?" asks Carla, dumbfounded. Maria beams happily, "Yes, great isn't it?"

Over at the Duckworths, Jack, Vera, Molly, Tyrone and Paul are all sitting round the table eating their meal. Molly asks what the big secret is. "We're flitting to Blackpool!" says Vera. Paul looks shocked. "So you're going to be selling up then?" he asks, shakily. Vera tells him they'll have to, it's pricey up there. Paul tries to put them off, telling them that Blackpool is all right for holidays in the summer, but what about in the winter, with none of their friends around…. Vera is adamant however, that's where she wants to be. Paul then tries to persuade her to just make a temporary move for six months to see how they like it, to rent a flat or a static caravan. Tyrone admits he has a point, and Jack seems to think it's a good idea. Vera, however, thinks they've spent years thinking about it, now is the time to jump in with both feet.

In the Rovers, the drinks are still flowing. Maria hints that Ryan will be able to babysit. Liam asks Carla if she's surprised, and Carla says she's surprised he didn't mention it earlier. Liam says he thought Maria was going to wait until the first scan to say anything to anybody. Just then Maria and Tony come over, so Carla proposes a toast – to Maria, Liam and the bump! As Maria hugs him, Liam looks ruefully across to where Carla is kissing Tony.

Anne Logan

Ryan comes out of the pub and crosses the road towards the bus stop just as that mysterious blue car swings into the street. He sees it and runs as fast as he can, with the car following. Ryan leaps into the door of the taxi office and the car drives off, the driver looking around, trying to spot him.

"Lamb shanks," says Kirk. Maria doesn't think this is an endearment. "Perfect for a busy woman," says Kirk. He's just discovered a low over isn't one you have to bend down to. Maria's impatient. "I'm getting married," she tells her brother. "What? Now? I can't leave the shop," says poor Kirky. Kirk thinks Liam's a top bloke and he hugs Maria. She tells him he's going to be an uncle. Kirk worries that it might not be safe to hug her, but she calls him a big softie and hugs him hard.

Ryan sneaks back into the pub, but his mother catches him as he tries to sneak upstairs. He tells Michelle he feels sick. She says he hasn't got a temperature and orders him back to school.

The Duckworths chat about ironing as Paul does his. Vera doesn't know why she bothers because as soon as Jack puts owt on he looks as if he's slept in it. Jack thinks it doesn't matter in the winter with a coat over the top. But they look forward to a spring where more than the council tax bill lets them know the season has changed. "New year. . . new life – stuff the ironing," says Vera. Paul thinks they'll miss The Rovers and The Legion. Vera thinks a place with a garden would be good. They could sit out and Jack could grow veg. Jack gets up. He's off to introduce himself to the new bookies. Vera's worried he'll gamble away money they need to move, but Jack says it's a matter of making some surefire investments. When he's gone, Vera tells Paul that moving to Blackpool is her one last dream. And he'll be able to come and visit.

David's in the cafe, watching out from behind the curtain. Becky and Roy talk about Christmas. It'll be the first year Becky's actually paid for anything, she tells Roy. The store detectives were usually so busy that nicking was easy. She assures Roy that she won't be stealing this year because there's no need. She's only buying one present, for a very special man. "Oh, do you have a boyfriend? I had no idea," says Roy. Becky tells him he's the only man in her life. She asks whether he or Hayley buys his clothes and tells him he needs a change of image. David spots Sarah going around to the builders' yard. Becky, behind him, is trying to hint to Roy that she needs a new watch. He doesn't seem to be getting the idea. David, meanwhile, is writing a text message to Jason.

In the yard, Sarah casts a suspicious eye over a take-out cup of coffee. Jason assures her it's Roger's, and Roger backs him up. Jason's phone beeps and Jason tells Sarah to feel free to look and see who it is. Uh oh. "Is this a wind-up?" she screeches. "It's her. Again!" Jason can't understand it, but Sarah's not waiting for explanations and rushes down the stairs.

In the cafe, Becky casually asks David about Christmas, but he says he's got plenty to look forward to before then. Then Sarah is rushing through the door, Jason straight behind her, to demand "What the hell is going on?" Becky is flummoxed and David looks as if his Christmas has come already. Sarah waves her left hand at Becky and tells her Jason is married, "so keep your scabby hands off!" Becky denies texting Jason and Sarah demands to know whether she thinks Jason would be interested "in a minger like you?" That's it for Becky, who takes a measured pace towards Sarah. "You can't call me names like that and expect to keep your teeth." Sarah counters with: "What do I call a sad, desperate slag that's trying to steal my husband?" Becky gives her a shove and tells her, "Right! Outside!" Roy comes round to break up any scuffle. He's too late as Sarah slaps Becky across the face. Jason steps between them and grabs Sarah, but she wriggles free. Just in time to walk into Becky, who wrestles her to the floor, with Jason calling to Roy for help getting them apart. Jason ends up dragging Becky up off the floor, telling her he's sorry about this. Which, of course, prompts Sarah, now being held by Roy, to screech "Don't you dare apologise to her!" She spits at Becky: "You want him that much, you have him – if you haven't already!" She storms out of the cafe, leaving David smirking behind her.

Lloyd goes out to the car to find a wheelclamp on it. It's the bookies, of course. They come over. Jim Fenner-that-was tells Lloyd not to be upset because Dan might be able to help. Steve and Lloyd don't want any favours from the bookies. Once they've gone, Lloyd says he could call the police. "Or you could just pay him what you owe him," Steve points out. Lloyd thinks he could get Kevin to whack off the clamp. "Or you could just pay him what you owe him." "Will you stop saying that?" snaps Lloyd. He doesn't see why he should pay anyone who will point a stunt like this. Steven points that it's exactly the sort of person he should be paying. Otherwise, next time the car won't have a clamp, it'll be up on bricks. And the time after that, no car, just bricks. "That fact of the matter is, you still owe 'appy 'arry four hundred quid."

Becky tries to point out to Roy that she did nothing to start the trouble. He says it's the second time this week that she's had an altercation with a customer. "And what do you expect her to do if you keep sending me these daft texts?" asks Jason. Becky denies it angrily and Jason produces his phone. Becky looks at the texts and tells him she didn't send them. She fumes that she lost her phone, days ago. Behind her, a small psychopath sneaks out. Roy backs her up and says they've been searching the place looking for the phone. "I think you'll find that the thief is the one behind the messages," he says logically. A few gears crank into action in Jason's sawdust-filled head and he turns to look at where David was sitting. He apologises to Becky.

Kirk, wearing a suit with a purple shirt and purple-striped tie arrives in the factory to see Liam. "Wow! Now that is what I call an interview suit," says Liam. "Except you've already got a job, we're not interviewing, and nobody turns up here looking for a job wearing a suit. . ." Kirk sits down. "You and our Maria . . . " he starts. "Ah, it is an interview, then," says Liam. Kirk tells him that Maria's been messed around by blokes and he wants to know that Liam's not going to do the same. He tells Liam that he doesn't have to marry Maria unless he loves her. "Kirk, mate," says Liam, leaning forward. "I think the world of Maria. Is that what you wanted to hear?" Kirk says it is. Liam offers to buy him a drink. On the way out, Kirk tells him he wore the suit because his dad always said people listen to men in suits. "No-one listens to me normally."

In the salon, Audrey can't believe Jason has the nerve to come in. David arrives back while Sarah's asking Jason whether he's managed to cook up a story. Jason says Becky lost her phone. Even Audrey thinks he could have come up with something better than that. Jason holds up his phone and rings Becky. David's coat pocket rings. Jason rushes and shoves David back against the handbasins but stops before he hurts him. Sarah has no such hesitation, going for her brother's throat and telling him he should have really killed himself. Audrey drags her off.

In the pub, Liam is still being interviewed. Kirk asks him whether he's ever been engaged before. "Linda Tomlinson," says Liam. "We were going to be wed." (I've possible got the poor girl's name wrong – couldn't pick it up) Kirk asked what happened to her. "Her parents moved her to a different infant school," Liam says. Kirk feels obliged to ask the questions because their parents are in Cyprus. Maria arrives and is flattered to hear that Kirk's worried about her.

"You are the nastiest little swine alive!" Sarah tells David. He can't believe she's calling him nasty when she just said she wanted him dead. "How sick can you get?" demands Sarah. David tells Audrey he was just having a bit of fun and it was easier than he expected to make Sarah believe Jason was seeing Becky. "I've told you before, Sarah. You don't need me to wreck your marriage. You can do that yourself." Audrey orders him from the salon and tells him he won't be paid for today. Sarah turns contritely to Jason and says she's sorry she didn't believe him. "I best get back to work," he says, brushing past.

In the Italian restaurant, Paul has made a mistake with an order and it's not the first today. He reassures Leanne that it's nothing she's done.

In the pub, Michelle and Steve hear Ryan come home early. "This had better be good," Michelle tells her son. He says he's not well, but Michelle still doesn't believe him. The school's been on the phone about him bunking off. Steve wonders if he's being bullied, but Ryan says it's not that. "I'm being followed." Michelle doesn't take him seriously. Until Ryan tells her it's a bloke in a car. "I know it's following me and I don't know why, okay?" Ryan turns away. "If he is lying, he's better at it than I ever was," Steve says to Michelle.

In the restaurant, Michelle and Paul talk. He's telling her about what he's done borrowing money against Jack's house. He reassures Leanne that she and the business are not involved. He doesn't know if Jack will press charges. He's more worried about the loan company. Leanne doesn't like his plan to take a loan against the business. "Sorry. Your mess. You sought it."

At the bar, Michelle and Steve are talking about Ryan's stalker with Lloyd and Roger. Roger says there are all sorts of weirdos out there. The bookies come in and tell Lloyd they'll have two pints. Lloyd tells them he has their money. They can buy their own drinks. Jim Fenner-that-was hands Lloyd back 100 pounds, telling him 300 will do to make up for them having to make their point with the cab firm. Dan can't believe what his father's done, as Lloyd goes to order drinks. "You've got a happy man there," his father says. "If I'd taken the whole £400, we'd have never seen him in our shop again. Now he thinks we're good guys. I'll get that £400 back off Lloyd Mullaney a hundred times over."

Sarah goes to see a morose Jason in the yard office. She can't understand what's wrong. Jason tells her that David was right about her doing a better job of wrecking their marriage than David ever could. "We've been married five weeks. You don't trust me. You don't believe me." He tells her that sometimes he thinks she's as mental as David is. He gets up to go to the pub, leaving Sarah to think.

The End
Margaret Carr
(and Jim Fenner's new name is "Harry")

Well that was some holiday. Almost two weeks in South Africa. Cape Town in particular was outstanding, great food and wine at very good prices and the scenery is as wonderful as you might expect from the pictures we have all seen. Very relaxing time.

Anyway events in the Street have moved on a bit since I was last sat at my keyboard and with copyright with ITV Productions, written by Chris Fewtrell and directed by Tim Dowd.

Maria and Liam appear to be enjoying a healthy sex life and with no food in the house Liam is going to take Maria out for a walk and breakfast once Liam has taken Ozzie for a walk so he can get down to his business.

Little enough martial bliss in the Jason and Sarah marriage, Jason remains unhappy with Sarah who asks to be forgiven but he is not yet in the right mood.

Liam stops into see Michelle who tells him that Ryan reckons he is being followed. Liam does not believe a word of it - Michelle is not sure if Ryan is making it up or not. A little later Ryan comes in and asks Liam for a lift - he refuses because of the planned breakfast. Ryan in playing in a competition and Michelle wishes him good luck.

Jim is back, yes catch yersel on Jim, out of the Big House (apparently legitimately) and unemployed and unemployable, living in a hostel and now sitting in the cab office talking to Lloyd. Steve arrives - Jim "What about you big man?". Yes it really is the same old Jim with the same old catch phrases! Steve asks what he is doing. Jim wants a quiet life - but he has lost his shoes and suitcase - there is a thief in the hostel. Steve heads off to the Rovers.

Jack catches Paul in the back yard - Jack cannot explain to the pigeons that he is moving to Blackpool. Paul tries to convince Jack to stay - but Vera is not open for reconsideration. Jack feels he has to agree to Vera's views. Jack reassures Paul that they will not lose touch - Paul coming into their lives again has been very important. Paul cannot take it and tells Jack there is something he must know.

Liz finds the back door open and accuses Ryan to Michelle - turns out it was Steve getting some shoes (for Jim). Liz is not stupid and despite Steve's story about a punter Liz tells Steve that he can leave the jumper - yellow was never Jim's colour.

Liam has been waiting for Maria who tells him it takes ages to manage to look this good. Liam suggests that Maria moves in with him so that she does not have to go home. And Jamie - Liam says he will sort it out and Maria accepts.

Paul has told Jack the whole sorry story and inside Tyrone has heard it as well. Jack cannot believe it - he thought that Paul was nothing like his father - but Jack is so disappointed that Paul is dishonest as well. Tyrone rushes out and lays into Paul verbally. Jack calls a halt and apologises to Tyrone. Jack and Paul head off because Jack does not want Vera to hear what has happened as it will be the death of her.

And after the break.

At the cab office Steve has bought Jim something to eat. Jim thanks Steve for the shoes and he refuses further offers of help - after all he still has some pride so he does (yes another catch phrase). Jim promises to square him away when he is on his feet. Jim knows he is in catch 22 land. He departs.

Becky sees Jason locking up at the yard and she walks over to pass the time of day. Jason apologises, but Becky is understanding. She offers to buy him a brew and although he initially refuses he changes his mind.

Sarah is ignoring the tv and her mother. Gail tries to give Sarah some advice - mainly to be patient until time provides its own healing. David arrives and disturbs the peace. Sarah starts shouting at David. Gail turns on Sarah but she is feeling very isolated.

At the Rovers Paul tells Jack that he can eventually pay off the loan - it was taken over 7 years but he might be able to reduce it. Jack realises he cannot sell the house because Vera must never find out about it.

In the cab office Lloyd complains about the noise that Steve's thinking is doing. They discuss Jim and his current position. They are stumped - Jim cannot work in the Rovers nor drive a cab because of his record. Steve suggest the switchboard. Eileen and Claire and fat Brenda already have that job. Lloyd tells Steve to go and clean the cabs and Steve says - that's it! Steve will employ Jim as a full time valet and Lloyd agrees with little argument.

At the Platt household Sarah refuses to forgive David and David and Sarah continue to bicker. Gail feels that Sarah has to leave - she cannot cope with them both under the same rood. Gail points out that Sarah has a husband. Sarah retaliates. She is being punished for David's actions - he is the one in the wrong and yet she is the loser. It is simply not fair. Gail is letting David win. Gail hopes that Sarah will eventually understand. David smirks realising he has one.

In the Rovers Michelle keeps looking at her watch. Ryan is late and she is worried. Liz tries to give some advice. Outside Ryan is walking down the Street when the man in the blue car starts talking to him - and knows his name. Ryan is spooked to say the least and rushes into the Rovers. Liam asks what has happened and Ryan tells him. Liam and Maria rush outside to see the blue Subaru driving off. Michelle goes hysterical and the credits roll.

See you for next Sunday.
K Richard W

We begin in the Rovers where Liz, Steve, Michelle and Vernon are having breakfast. Michelle is clearly upset about Ryan's stalker. She has decided not to send him to school as she's so worried. She is going through various scenarios and decides Ryan must know more than he is letting on about the situation and storms off to speak to him, Steve stops her saying he'll talk to him, and she'd only make things worse by going in all guns blazing.

Jamie and Liam are having breakfast at home with their pregnant girlfriends. Violet can't stop eating "If it's not nailed don you're eating it" Jamie remarks. However Maria is much less open about her pregnancy. She reminds Liam that she would rather not tell anyone about the baby until she has had her first scan.

At the Platt's breakfast table David is being his usual arrogant self. Sarah is unhappy that she and Jason are the ones who Gail has asked to move out while David is waited on hand and foot by their Mother. Jason reminds her that moving out into their own place, just the three of them, is exactly what they wanted to do anyway but Sarah is still feeling forced out while her evil brother gets exactly what he wants. Gail is pottering around tidying up ready for the arrival of her brother Steven.

Steve goes into the Rovers back room to chat to Ryan who's inevitably sitting in front of the TV is playing his computer games. Steve tries his best to get Ryan to talk but gets little more than shrugs and grunts (typical teenager!) Ryan's only comment is to express his happiness about getting a day off school. If the incident has upset him he does a good job of hiding it.

Janice, Fiz, Kelly and Wicky discuss their plans for Christmas on the way to work. Fiz is excited about her first Christmas with John and looking forward to opening a wonderful surprise present. Janice and Rodger will be sat in front of the TV stuffing them selves with all sorts of Christmas delights. Kelly is disappointed she will be spending Christmas without a man and will only be cornered and kissed by her revolting uncle Arthur under the mistletoe! She jokingly reveals that she is considering becoming a lesbian to which Wicky replies "I tried that once, quite liked it" The girls are most amused. As they enter the factory Carla notices their arms full of Christmas decorations "don't blame me if you strangle you selves on tinsel" she jokes. Carla notices Maria moving boxes into Liam's house and gives a scowl.

Audrey and Steven arrive by car and pull up outside Gail's house. Audrey mentions the unrest there has been this year in the family and wished for them to all get along over Christmas. They go into the salon to see Sarah and David. David is so happy to see his uncle he has even gone to the trouble of turning the coffee machine on (little creep!).

Lauren hoes to see Violet at work to ask if she can move into the new flat with Jamie and her sister. Violet refuses much to Laurens displeasure.

Vernon is still feeling uneasy about Jim being around. Liz agrees and says how she's truing to look to the future and he has appeared like a black cloud hanging over them. Steve is upset at Liz's attitude as he and Amy are all Jim has and at least she has a future to look forward to unlike his Dad.

Molly is hanging festive decorations at the Duckworth's. Vera is looking forward to next Christmas when they will be living in their new home in Blackpool and getting really excited about the idea. Everyone else, including Jack, tries to calm her down by saying "leys just see what happens" as they know that there now isn't enough money for their dream home in Blackpool since Paul defrauded them. Vera sees this as them being miserable.

Liam goes over to the Rovers to see Ryan. On his way Michelle and Steve ask him if Ryan as given him a clue as to what's going on. Liam doesn't think Ryan is in any trouble and tells Michelle she can't keep him shut up all the time. She reluctantly agrees to let Liam take Ryan to school that afternoon as long as he watches him until he is inside and collects him at the gate afterwards. Ryan isn't too thrilled about being walked to school by his uncle he says "never mind the psycho stalker this is social suicide". Liam warns him not to leave the gates at the end of school until he arrives.

Michelle phone rings, its Liam to let her know that Ryan is at school safely. Liz reassures her by saying "we mothers always get to the bottom of things!

In the pub Molly, Tyrone, Jack and Paul discuss the lack of money for Vera's dream home in Blackpool. Molly thinks Jack should tell Vera and that he has covered for Paul for far too long. However Jack is desperate not to have to see Vera disappointed again. Paul promises he will sort something out but no one else is convinced.

Jim arrives on the street to see his Son. Steve comments on how rough ho looks. Apparently they were evacuated from his hostel during the night as someone had set first to their bed! Steve reckons he needs to get out of the hostel but Jim doesn't think there's much chance of that happening until Steve offers him a job valeting the cabs. He accepts and goes off to the bookies to celebrate.

In the factory the girls are happily singing along to some Christmas songs but Carla switches is off when she enters. Obviously this causes upset in the ranks. Wicky saves the day by convincing Carla that music helped them work faster. Carla then mentions to Liam about Maria moving into his house. Of course Carla makes sure the girls can hear the whole conversation. Liam tells them about their engagement which the girls seem thrilled about. Carla then goes on to say "If I were her I'd have you doing all the lifting, especially in her condition". Liam looks beside himself with anger at Carla just announcing it to the whole factory like that. Carla knew full well that Maria didn't want anyone to know yet, what a nasty trick.

Steven and Audrey arrive at Gail's house with flowers and kisses. They sit down for a civilised cup of coffee and a custard slice. How long do you think the peace will last? They chat about David. Steven makes the excuse about him having no Father figure around. He hadn't realised how badly behaved David had been.

Liam announces he is going to pick Ryan up from school. Carla asks him if he is still sulking about Carla's earlier actions. He obviously is "She told you to keep it to yourself" he says, "She's really excited about having this baby and I don't want you ruining it for her". He asks Carla why she is being like this she has no reason except saying that Maria bores her ridged! We know there's more to it than that though.

In the cab office Eileen is complaining to Steve and Jamie about everyone moving out of her house and not having anyone to spend Christmas with. Lauren then enters and tries her luck with Jamie asking if she can move into the flat for a while. She doesn't pull the wool over Jamie's eyes, he quickly works out that she has already ask Violet who had said no. Lauren then asks Eileen if she can continue to stay with her. Eileen also says no and says she wants the place to herself for a while.

At the school gates a man pulls up in his car. He gets out and approaches Ryan who is just leaving school. Liam has also just arrived and sees him first. He grabs the man pinning him up against the car. He orders Ryan to get in his car but Ryan stands and watches. He asks the man what he's doing. The man claims he would never hurt Ryan. Liam asks how the man knows Ryan's name, to which he replies "because I'm his Father".

Erica Houston

Liam slams the strange man who has been following Ryan against a van while parents and school kids look on, telling the man that he knew Ryan's father- he was with him when he died but the man insists he's Ryan's father. Ryan shouts to Liam about calling the police. While Liam is shouting like a madman at Ryan to get back in the car, the man escapes and Liam chases after him. The man drives off in his car. Ryan looks on bewildered.

Steve breaks the news to Liz in the Rovers that he's given his Dad a job at Streetcars. Steve reassures Liz and Vernon that Jim will steer clear of the Rovers. Liz tells Steve she thinks his loyalty is misplaced. Steve points out that Liz has a home, family etc but that Jim has nothing. Liz is worried that now she's happy, Jim will turn up like a "ghost of Christmas past" and ruin everything for her. Steve points put that Jim is his father and he can't turn his back on him. Liz sees reason in this but she thinks Steve is making a big mistake.

At Gail's Steven is settling in. Sarah and David are bickering again in the kitchen. David makes a cruel joke about Jason's IQ. Audrey wonders if they'll manage to make it through this one family meal.

Back in the Rovers, Vernon and Liz are watching Steve put up Christmas decs. Michelle comes through and tells how she just spoke to Liam about the man following Ryan. She furrows her brow and reports that Liam and Ryan are at the police station but that Liam has told her to sit tight and they'll tell her everything when they get home.

Outside Liam's house, Fizz rushes over to Maria and offers her hearty congratulations on the baby. Maria is not happy that word of her pregnancy has got out before the 12 week mark. Fizz tells her Carla told everyone in the factory. Maria looks furious.

Jim turns up at Streetcars asking Eileen for the bucket and a sponge to start washing the cars. Jim takes Eileen's normal, everyday countenance as disapproval of having to work with an ex-con and tried to reassure her that he's not looking for trouble and that he just wants to work. He points out that Eileen is technically in charge of him which makes her smile. Steve comes in. Jim asks him when he'll be able to see Amy again. Steve says to leave it with him.

Paul and Jack come home to the Duckies' with some lovely pork chops for their tea. Vera is a bit excited because the estate agent in Blackpool has been on the blower and found a perfect place for them to move to. it has a bidet and everything. Poor Jack breaks the news to disappointed and confused Vera that they have $30K less than they thought they did to buy a new place while Paul looks on from the kitchen, clearly worried that Jack is going to spill the beans about his underhand dealings.

At Gail's, the family dinner is underway. Steven explains he's off to Milan to set up a new a new office. It was a toss-up between Milan and Turin. Sarah surprises herself by actually having heard of Turin. Gail tells her about the Winter Olympics and Jason mentions Jesus and the Shroud of Turin, "Yeah, that was it, " says Sarah, "it was dead old and everything!" Oh dear. More bickering from Sarah and David ensues. Steven tells a bit about Milan and what a great place it is (I totally agree with him, by the way- it's a great place!). David says he's love to go places and do something with his life. He complains about not getting any further than the end of the street. Gail smiles indulgently at David.

Poor Vera, in her living room, is terribly disappointed about the money. She's always worked hard and been a grafter- is it too much to ask for a conservatory and a bidet? Jack lies and explains to Vera that he loaned Paul the money for the restaurant. Vera is so shocked by the news that she has to go for a lie down. When Vera is out of earshot, Paul thanks Jack for covering for him. Jack, furious, tells him, "I didn't do it for you! You lying, thieving little.... I did it for my Vera" Jack is very upset by it all.

Ryan and Liam come back to the Rovers. They tell Steve and Michelle what happened at school. Liam won't tell Michelle what the man claims is the truth in front of Ryan. Ryan heads upstairs and Liam, Steve and Michelle go into the living room. Reluctantly, Liam tells them that the man who was following Ryan says he is Ryan's dad.

Back with Liam, Steve and Michelle in the living at the Rovers, Michelle tells them all that there's no way that the man is Ryan's father. Steve tries to help by telling her that everyone's done things they're ashamed of. Liam backs him up and tries to tell her it's all in the past but Michelle is merely insulted and shouts that Dean is Ryan's dad, there's absolutely no question of that.

At Streetcars, we join Jim and Eileen bantering. Jim must have been complaining that he aches somewhere because Eileen says, "You big girl, you'll be complaining next you've got housemaid's knee!" Liz comes in. She wants to speak to Jim. Eileen leaves them to give them some privacy. Jim tells "Elizabeth" it's good to see her. Liz tells him not to try and soft soap her. She tells him it suited her when Jim was in prison because she knew what he was up to when he was inside. Jim tries to assure her that he's not here to cause trouble but Liz doesn't believe him. He tries again to tell her he's learned the hard way that all that matters is the people you love.

In the Rovers, John joins Fizz and Mariz who is still fuming about Carla blabbing about the pregnancy. Fizz asks Maria if she's had any cravings yet. Maria says no but a packet of smoky bacon crisps would go down well now. John tells Maria about his sister who craved insoles when she was pregnant. Carla comes in, "Gob-on-a-stick", Fizz calls her. Carla comes to say sorry but Maria is still not happy with her. She reluctantly agrees to forgive Carla for letting her secret out because, "Like she said, there's nothing we can do about it now, is there?"

At the back of the Rovers, Ryan brings a cup of tea out to his Mum and sits beside her. He wants to know why she's sitting outside- he thinks she's fallen out with Liam but she tells him she hasn't. Tells Ryan she loves him and that while she doesn't know what's going on, she'll get to the bottom of it.

At Gail's the family are washing up after dinner and enjoying some friendly banter. Sarah points out that David has been ingratiating himself to his Uncle all night. Audrey tells Sarah that David's only making an effort and she should too.

Outside Streetcars, Liz and Jim are chatting. Liz tells Jim she's getting married three weeks to that day. She asks Jim to stay away and not ruin it for her. Jim tells her he's happy for her and has no intention of ruining it for her. Steve comes over with an advance on his Dad's wages. Jim is grateful and tells Steve he didn't have to, he's done so much for him already.

David and Steven are sitting out on Gail's front garden wall, chatting. Between them they liken Gail to a bad tempered little dog who never gives up. David says it's probably a good thing his mother never gave up on him and tells Steven he's been a total pain over the year. He says he feels like he doesn't belong in that family.

Jack and Vera are looking for somewhere to live in Blackpool. Vera is still disappointed with the money situation. Jack tells her that they've been through worse times and they'll get through this. Poor Vera says she's tired and she has no fight left in her. Jack sends her up to bed where he'll bring her a nice cup of cocoa. When Vera leaves, Jack is nearly brought to tears.

Liam and Steve are talking at the bar where Liam wishes he'd been quick enough to floor the bloke who's been following Ryan when he had the chance. Michelle joins them and Liam apologises for having upset her with his insensitive remark. He tells her he never really thought she would have cheated on Dean. Michelle reminisces that she never wanted anyone else, she only ever wanted Dean. Steve looks uncomfortable. Michelle wonders if this mysterious man is using Ryan to get at her. She's trying to think of every possibility- maybe it's something to do with Dean's car crash. Nobody knows though and Steve mentions again about him saying he's Ryan's father. Michelle looks at Steve and says, "You do believe me, don't you?" Steve nods a yes but he's not very convincing.

Stella McLoughlin

Ken and Deirdre are shown into the back room of the Rovers by Liz, where Steve is eating his breakfast. Liz tells them that Michelle is bathing Amy, getting her ready for her trip to see Father Christmas. Ken wants to check that it's still all right to take her out later. Steve then tells them all that he's thinking of taking Amy out to see his dad one day soon. Ken agrees that he is her grandfather, after all, but Liz reminds Steve that he is still a stranger, and Deirdre says it is her first Christmas without her mummy. Steve assures them he'll keep an eye on her and it will be a low-key, happy day. They all reluctantly agree, but Liz says he mustn't feed Amy loads of rubbish and get her over-excited. "He's not an idiot you know," says Steve. Deirdre then persuades Ken to go off and order their breakfast at Roy's, while she waits for Amy.

Fizz and John are walking past the Webster household as Sally comes out. Just then Rosie comes out to talk to her mother, as Fizz leaves John to go off to work. As Sally and Fizz head off across the road, Rosie is left with John. She tells him she can't wait until the end of term, they'll be on holiday while Fizz will be at work. "Our first Christmas together!" she tells him. He says he has to go, and she lunges at him, planting a kiss on his cheek, giggling, much to his shock and annoyance.

Vernon, modelling a new shirt, comes into the back room of the Rovers where Liz is enjoying a cuppa with Deirdre. "Am I fab or am I fab?" he asks. Liz says he'll do, and tells him he looks razor sharp. He goes off again, and Liz tells Deirdre she's very happy with him, despite Jim being back on the scene. Just then Michelle (dressed for a heatwave although it's December) brings Amy in, and they all coo over her. Steve asks Michelle how Ryan is, and is told he's fine. "Is he not going to school?" asks Liz. "Not today," says Michelle, and busies herself with Amy's hair.

Over in the Platt household, David asks Gail if his Uncle Stephen is the chairman of his company or whether he has partners. Gail says she doesn't know, but it is his company. Sarah remarks that David is only interested in Stephen because he is the only one with any money. Gail tells her that she's not happy when David is kicking off, and she's not happy when he's charming the birds off the trees. "Can't your poor brother do anything right?" she asks, and leaves Sarah scowling.

Michelle tells Ryan to get a shower, she's phoned the school and asked them to email over some homework. Ryan is not very happy to hear this, but she reminds him he's not ill. Ryan says that whoever this pervy bloke is, he can't make his life any worse.

David is in the cafe with Stephen, and are served by Becky who tells David that her purse and mobile are locked away so he shouldn't even bother looking. Stephen asks David what he did to upset her, and he confesses that he just sent a couple of text messages, it was a daft joke. Stephen says that not many people seem to be laughing, and maybe he should look at himself. He asks David what he really wants from his life, it's time to take a step back and think about what kind of person he wants to be. David says that Sarah goes on as if he's some kind of spawn of the devil. "She's your sister," says Stephen, "it's part of the job."

In the pub, Michelle is looking at the work the school have finally sent over, but that Ryan has said is the wrong stuff. Liz sits down with her, saying she doesn't want to interfere, but is she sure the stalker business is real? Michelle says that Liam saw him. Liz wonders if it could be something and nothing, lots of children make up excuses to stay off school. Michelle then tell Liz that the bloke said he was Ryan's dad. "How can he be?" asks Liz, and Michelle tells her that he can't, he isn't, he's mad. "Do you know him?" asks Liz, but Michelle swears she's never seen him and it's absolute nonsense.

Liz visits Steve in the taxi office, waiting for Ken and Deirdre to bring Amy back. She suggests he takes Ryan out for a kick about with a football. Steve points out that it's dark, he would probably fall about laughing, and anyway he's working. She tells Steve what Michelle told him about the stalker being Ryan's father. "If she had had another bloke….." she begins, but Steve quickly tells her she hadn't. Liz says that Michelle has put Dean on a pedestal, it must be really hard to admit to having an affair when your husband is dead. Steve insists he's going to continue to support Michelle. Liz says she hopes he's not disappointed if Michelle turns out not to be a saint.

Jim goes into the Rovers with Bill, and is introduced to Michelle. Just then Liz comes in and checks that he's not staying long. Just then Ken brings Amy back, and Jim is, of course, delighted to see her and picks her up. Liz rushes out and takes her off him, saying it's way past her bedtime, making it clear that she doesn't want Jim to stay. Jim is just thinking of going when Bill urges him to have another drink and Ken orders "the same again for Jim and Bill!"

Elsewhere, Dan the bookie is in the kebab shop, telling Mel that he thought they'd all be Greek. Mel's friend arrives at that moment, and he obviously likes what he sees but then pays for his kebab and leaves.

Gail is at home, talking to Stephen, who says he's being David's friend. Gail admits that she seems to be his only real friend. Stephen says they'll sort him out.

In the pub, Liz is watching Jim with a worried face while serving behind the bar. Dan has joined his father at the bar, although his attention is on Mel and her friend who are sitting at a table. Mel comments that he seems to be eyeing up her friend, but she says that nothing will happen once he finds out she's a copper, so they decide to go.

Eileen is sitting at a table with Lauren, and tells her she can lodge with her, paying the same rent that Violet paid. Lauren is delighted and goes to the bar, but bumps into someone on the way who spills their drink all down Jim's back. Liz rushes out from behind the bar, convinced that a fight is about to break out but Jim is cool and calms the situation down straight away, much to Liz's surprise. As she hands him a towel to dry himself she tells him the next drink is on her.

Steve and Michelle are in the restaurant having a meal, and tells him that she never cheated on Dean. He says that he knows that, but just in case she did…. Michelle tells him again that she never, ever cheated. "Why can't you get that?" she asks him. Steve can't understand why the guy should be stalking a teenager. "But you believe me?" asks Michelle. Steve tells her he does, and kisses her, but asks when she's going to tell Ryan. "I'm not," she says, "and you mustn't either." Steve thinks she'll have to tell him sooner or later, but she says she doesn't know where to start.

Back at the Rovers, all the other drinkers are gone, leaving just Bill and Jim. Liz asks for a word and so Bill leaves. Once they're on their own, Liz tells Jim she feels she should act more normally around him, because whatever has gone on in the past they do have two sons and now a grand-daughter. She apologises for not being very welcoming to him. While they're talking, Vernon comes into the hall way and overhears them talking. He stands and listens for a while. Jim assures her that he's not there to cause trouble and doesn't want to cause any difficulties between her and Steve or her and Vernon. At that moment Vernon makes his presence known to them, and Liz introduces him. Jim assures him that he's not there to cause trouble. He bids them goodnight, and leaves.

After he's gone, Liz tells Vernon that she was waiting for it all to kick off all night. Vernon says she didn't look too worried to him. "What?" says Liz. Vernon says that he noticed that Jim was the only customer left in the pub. Liz shouts and tells him to grow up, then she shoves him and goes off upstairs.

Outside, Jim looks up at their bedroom window and can see their silhouettes on the curtain. At first they seem to be arguing, but then he sees them kiss and he looks very disappointed.

Anne Logan.

Liz is at Deirdre's door talking about a pair of shoes she saw which would be perfect for the wedding. Problem is, she can't remember where the shop was and she'd had a drink. She wants Deirdre to help her find the place.

Becky bumps into David outside the Kabin. She tells him he's better watch it.

David's taken the paper back for Steven to read. Then he offers to make the toast for Gail. Sarah can't stand it and goes off with Todd. Gail will take Bethany to school.

Over breakfast, Steve and Liz tell Vernon how surprised they were when Jim didn't hit the bloke in the pub yesterday. Vernon, who didn't know Jim until this week, doubts he will have changed that much.

The factory workers raise the issue of a Christmas party. Carla thinks a couple of bottles of fizzy wine and a big packet of crisps will do it. In the office, Liam is stressing about the man who is stalking Ryan. Carla thinks he should go and offer to keep Ryan occupied.

Suddenly, it seems to be lunchtime. The girls are in the pub moaning about not getting a work do. Fizz and John are looking forward to the perfect Christmas, because it's their first together (always a portent of doom, that, looking forward...). Kelly thinks they should sort out their own do. But Janice thinks it's the employers' responsibility to make sure the workers get completely leathered at "Crimbo". Behind the bar, Ryan leans through from the house part of the pub and asks if he can go and kick a ball in the ginnel. No, he can't. Steve thinks he should watch some movies, but Ryan points out they've only got Die Hard, Die Hard 2 and Die Hard 3 – boring. "Boring? Guns! Explosions! Bruce Willis in a vest!" points out Steve. "How gay are you?" asks Ryan, earning a telling off from his mother. Liam turns up to take him into town and Ryan begs Michelle to let him go. She agrees reluctantly and with all sorts of security provisos.

David's made tea and Steven comes in and offers to take him to dinner. "Great!" says Sarah. "He gets his dinner bought for him again, and I get to scrub sinks!"

The baby bookie serves at the counter while Blanche hovers near the coffee machine. When the customer leaves, she almost dashes over to ask him if he'd be happy charging his grandmother £1.50 for a tea that tastes like yesterday's dishwater. To Blanche's astonishment, the baby bookie hands her £1.50 with his sincere apologies that it doesn't reach her high standards. An amused Jim asks her if she's causing trouble already. She tells him his tea inside was probably better than this bilgewater. He sips it and agrees it's pretty horrible. He offers her a tip on the 2.30 and she tells him she's not in the habit of consorting with folk who've been inside. "How's wee Tracy?" Jim asks pointedly. "The 2.30, you said?" asks Blanche. He gets her talking about Liz and Vernon's wedding. Blanche prefers a funeral. Blanche, of course, tells Jim all Vernon's bad points.

In the cafe, Rosie tells her mother that she and some friends will be going into town. Sally tries to get her to promise she won't drink, but Rosie sneers at the very idea. Sally tells her she won't be able to make any tea for her, because John's coming round for a lesson. "Oh, you never said," says Rosie. "Why would I," asks Sal. David and Steven are at one of the tables, tucking into a big meal. David's putting his problems down to living in a house full of women. Steven mentions Jason, but David says he gets better conversation from his rabbit. Steven mentions "some of the things you've put your mother through." "Oooh, what's she been saying?" sighs David, in world-weary tones. Steven reminds him that to almost lose a child is not something Gail can just shrug off. "What are your plans, David? What do you want to do with your life?" David says the salon's all right. Steven offers to take David to Milan when he goes to spend three months setting up the office there. "Did me mam put you up to this to get rid of me?" asks David. Steven hasn't even mentioned it to her yet. "Think of it as a fresh start." David doesn't really believe he's serious, but he likes the idea.

David and Steven leave the cafe. David still doubts him and he tells Steven Gail will go for the idea.

Deirdre and Liz get back from town loaded down with shoes and stuff and meet Jim and Blanche coming from the bookies. Deirdre is fairly astounded at the pairing. Blanche points out that their horse came in at eight to one and she's earned half her week's pension on one race. She tells Liz it's going towards a new hat if she's invited to the wedding. She and Deirdre go off to get a fish supper, leaving Liz and Jim together on the pavement. Vernon, for some weird reason, brings an empty barrel around the side of the Rovers (under that viaduct that never used to be there) and sees Liz and Jim looking reasonably relaxed with each other.

Sal lets John in the front door and tells Rosie to put some clothes on. She's wearing a very low-cut dress with string straps. She tells Sally that her pals changed their mind about going to the cinema in town and want to go pubbing in and she knows how much Sally doesn't want her drinking. It's all for John's benefit of course. She undulates her body in front of John once Sally's gone to put the kettle on. "Something to nibble on?" calls Sally from the kitchen.

Oh, any of you with a nervous disposition, look away now! Liz has bought her wedding boots. They are so horrible – almost knee-length high-heeled boots in white leather. Vernon seems very subdued in his reaction. Maybe I've misjudged him and he has some taste . . . nah, he likes Liz. Vernon notes that Liz is in a good mood. "Of course," she says. "I have my boots. I have my handbag. I have my man." She gathers all except the last and goes to head upstairs, just as Ryan and Liam return. It sounds like they can a good time. Liam's bought Ryan some new games. Michelle asks him about the games competition tomorrow. Ryan says Phil's dad is taking him, but Michelle leaps in and says they'll take him. He and Liam head for the back to play with some of the new games. Steve tells Michelle he can't keep Ryan locked up forever, but she says he's not going anywhere on his own. Ryan comes back into the pub and tells Steve: "I got something for you and all." Steve opens the bag and chuckles. "Die Hard 4."

John has been upstairs to the loo and of course Rosie is sitting on her bed in full view, wearing nothing but a towel. She tells John she wants to see him. She demands that it's tomorrow, even though earlier he'd promised Fizz to spend time with her tomorrow.

Table setting is in hand at Gail's house and Audrey is worrying about the wine and Bill needing to use a glass when he's at the table. Jason arrives with take-out food and Audrey calls to Gail and Steven that the food is here. They're in the back yard having a wee chat. He's telling her about his offer to David. Steven says he thinks David feels a bit smothered here. Gail's reluctant to agree. "The alternative is him staying here, unhappy and angry," Steven points out. "He needs a change. If not, then what?" He thinks David's a mixed-up kid who needs a fresh start. Gail finally agrees. Inside, as they dish up the noodles, David makes the announcement that he's going to live in Milan. Sarah looks as if she's going to throw an "it's not fair" tantrum.

In the back of the pub, Liam and Ryan battle it out on screen. Michelle comes in and tells Ryan that Phil's dad can take him. She says that as long as someone's available to take him there and back, Ryan can go back to school next week. He's startled and turns his head to ask, "Really?" Liam takes the chance to knock him out of the game. Michelle, looking pensive, shuts the door.

Back at the Platts' house, Sarah gets more and more resentful as they discuss what David's going to be doing. "Hang on!" she suddenly spits out. "He acts like a deranged, psycho weirdo for the last god-knows-how-long and he gets some fabulous new life in Italy?" Gail says it's a wonderful opportunity. Bill points out that she and Jason and Bethany will have more room. "But it's just wrong! It's not fair!" she says. Gail tells her to shut it. Audrey thinks it's the chance of a lifetime. Audrey proposes a toast to David. Sarah, of course, doesn't pick up her glass. Jason tries to pick up his, but is stopped in mid-pick-up by a muttered "Don't you dare!" As everybody drinks, Sarah looks furious and the credits roll.

The End.
Margaret Carr

Right. So let us start tonight with Sarah and David sniping at each in other in the salon - that makes a real change from recent events. This time it is over Mel getting a drink. Poor Mel more likely it will be laced with arsenic! Audrey tries to convince Sarah that David going off to Italy is a real chance for him to put things right in his head but as Sarah points out you should not reward bad behaviour. Audrey points out that if David goes he is out of Sarah's hair (why is David equivalent to a louse - oh yes he is!).

Lazy Lauren (Vi's sister) appears once the last box has been moved in. Vi holds out her hand and Jamie hands over the fiver. Jamie tells her Lauren she can help with the painting tomorrow - and she confirms that interior design is her thing. She will do a colour scheme which does not scream "hormonal".

Sarah is grouching at Jason at the yard over working on a Saturday observing that David will not be doing that in Milan. Jason says David will be the mere skivvy but Sarah remains upset that they have not been offered the opportunity given the responsibility they have shown.

More aggro at the Rovers where Michelle is unhappy that Phil's dad is merely dropping the kids off and is not staying. Ryan denies knowing anything (normal for a teenager) but he has been waiting for this competition for two months and is not dropping out now. Michelle cannot keep him locked up forever in this dump and he is going. Steve comes from the bar to remind Ryan that the dump has a bar full of customers who can hear him. Anyway Michelle says that she wants to go with Ryan to make sure he is safe. Steve returns to the bar and tells Liz that Michelle needs some time off - Liz refuses she is getting her hair done at Audrey's. Liz tells Steve to take Ryan - but he is looking after Amy! Steve picks up Amy and announces that Jim can look after her for a few hours - he has had little enough opportunity. This wipes any sign of a smile off Liz's face!

Now Audrey is trying to re-assure Gail that letting David go to Milan is a good idea. As Gail observes everyone else has failed and now her brother rolls into town and suddenly is a great success. Audrey tells her she deserves a break.

Kev sees Fiz waving John off - the latter is going to check up on the school disco for this evening but Kev reckons he is buying Fiz's Christmas present.

Stephen comes into the salon looking for Audrey and is told by David in Italian that she is out. In English he suggests the Rovers. David goes to fetch her and Sarah uses the opportunity to ask Stephen if he is a gambler, asking David to Milan. Sarah tries to give Stephen some advice - do not let him near money, good looking women or computers - but he just smiles and thanks her for the tips.

Steve is ready to take Ryan - who derides his choice of outer garment and when we see it we know why - it is for someone about 20 years younger than Steve.

In the Rovers the bookies offer a Ken a drink when they find out Blanche is his mother in law - a double - he must need it!

Elsewhere Rosie and John are in his car in a lay by. And that is far more glamorous than Rosie makes it sound. John just wants to be with her, but she wants the excitement of nearly getting caught. And within seconds seats go back and master and pupil are being extremely illegal in a lay by. A little while later (oh who knows - have you ever done it in a car and if so how long did it take you?) a tow truck pulls up behind them and briefly John thinks Kev is out on a job. John having suffered a heart attack sees the driver gets out of his cab and realises that Kev it is not and his appendages are safe for a little while longer. Not a problem this time around.

Ryan returns to the Rovers with Michelle and Steve. He has done well and is through to the qualifiers (it seems it is some form of computer gaming competition). Michelle cannot believe she is bragging about a son who is a computer geek. Ryan tells her it will be a lot better when the money starts rolling in.

There are several scenes with Mel and Abi (who is a real policewoman apparently) and I assume that these will eventually be important. Both Dan and David try to chat her up with little success. Blanche tells Dan (the bookie's son) that it must be his aftershave. Mel tells Abi she could have had Dan but she reckons he will keep.

Steve convinces Michelle that Ryan should return to school - perhaps the stalker was scared off and StreetCars will provide a security escort to and from school.

Fiz asks Liz and Dreary if they have seen John - but apparently not and Fiz is tired of waiting on her own.

Elsewhere John is dropping Rosie off several streets away - she wants dropping off at home. He points out all of the people that will get hurt if this is discovered. She says that anyway they can see more of each other in the holidays. He does not know how easy that it will be but Rosie is convinced that she will do so. She gets out of the car in a bad temper and he demands a kiss goodnight. She is about to kiss him when she claims it is too risky and marches off smiling to herself.

And at the Platts' David and Sarah are arguing. She has to babysit whilst he and Darryl are off into town. Sarah reckons he should not pack his suitcase just yet as Stephen will soon see sense. David says - who will make and Sarah replies that she will. David does not believe her - she is simply jealous and her credibility is blown. And anyway what could she possibly say that would change Stephen's mind. Sarah does not reveal it - but David observes that she might talk the talk but she cannot walk the walk as Stephen had spotted. David then sneers at Sarah - dreary marriage, dreary semi, and the most exciting event of her life was getting pregnant at thirteen. She has coasted the rest of her life, living on handouts from her mother, husband and gran. She is not worth employing whereas he is hungry for it and will trample on anyone who gets in his way. Sarah responds in kind. She knows how bad he is - they have all been on the wrong end of him but she is stronger and just as hungry - he had better watch his back.

Real venom between these two tonight. I have a feeling that David might just get a taste of his own medicine.

See you next week.

K Richard W

Part 1

Rovers' back room; Michelle tells Ryan to call as soon as he gets in to school. He says he needs money. Steve says he got £20. Ryan says that was to tell his friends how good he was at his gaming. He says they should pick him up at half 2. Steve looks at his timetable and says maths at half 2 with that cow. Betty comes in saying Lloyd is here for Ryan.

Platt's; David comes down looking tired. Gail asks what he and Darryl got up to. He says just stuff. Just then the door goes and Gail asks Sarah to put the kettle on for Steven and Audrey. David says he will do it. Sarah follows him and says Steve is his golden ticket out of here then says he is wasting his time. Audrey says David can go into town to get a suitcase.

Outside, the factory girls say they need to get Carla a dictionary and let her look up party. Carla says they may not be here after xmas. Kelly says she can never tell when she is joking. Eileen has given Lauren painting clothes but she walks off. Jamie says she will be back to help paint.

At the School, Lloyd comes out obviously after dropping off Ryan and sees the car that has been following Ryan. As it goes he gets in the taxi and follows it.

Outside, Mel is on her mobile thinking she is not getting into the police as they have not got back to her. Carla is uploading stock from the van. Liam says he is going out. Tony wants to borrow Carla. Liam says he will be an hour tops. Tony says to Carla, see you in an hour.

Outside the Salon, Sarah comes out telling David to sweep the hair up. He says he is going out with Steven. She says he is not here yet. Just then David spots him. Sarah says he can get as many suitcases but he won't be using them. He asks if she has a plan to stop him going. Audrey tells Steve who has just come not to keep him long.

Flat; Eileen comes in asking what Jamie and Violet are doing. He says trying to stop the tap from dripping. Jamie says he will go get a new washer for it and won't be long. Violet tells Eileen that Lauren texted from a charity shop and is looking for painting clothes.

Rover's backroom; Claire comes in and Michelle says if she is after Steve she will have to get in line. Michelle says it was her she was after and that Lloyd called saying he followed a car he thinks might be the stalker and wants to know what to do. Michelle runs out.

Outside Sarah says David is walking about all smug. Jason says there is nothing they can do. Liam sees Michelle running. Claire tells Liam that Lloyd might have found the stalker. Gail sees Sarah and asks if Steve and David are back then tells Sarah she does not need her to be difficult just after David is being good.

Street Cars; Michelle is on the radio talking to Lloyd who gives her the address. Liam comes in asking what car is it. He says a blue Subaru. Liam says it's got to be him. Claire says they should call the police. Liam says to tell them they are on their way.

Outside, Betty, who sees Steve, says if she has to open up and do the tills she wants to see it in her wage. She tells him Michelle left. Steve says he is sure she will be here before opening. Betty says she's got 10 mins then. The new bookie comes out shouting saying just listen but the person on the phone has hung up. He tells his son never to get married.

Outside in Liam's car Michelle says right but Liam does not take it. He says he wants to know what she is going to go. Michelle says confront him. Liam says she is not confronting him in this state. She shouts left but he does not take it. He pulls up and says she needs to calm down and it might not been him. Michelle says she is going to talk to him and get answers.

Factory; Tony comes in saying he sent texts. Carla reads it and says your destiny waits. He says her destiny is the pub. She says Liam is not here so she can't go. Tony says phone him or he can. Outside in the Car Michelle says he will get in a fight but she will get answers. Liam's phone rings, he says its Carla but does not answer. Michelle says she is going to ask what he was going to do with Ryan and pass his address to the police. Liam starts the car and they drive off.

Flat; Jamie comes back saying look who he found at the door. Lauren says she rang the buzzer. Eileen says they have done a lot without tea or coffee. Jamie looking at the washers he's got says it's the wrong ones. Lauren says she will get take away cups from Roy. Jamie says he's got to get the other washers and won't be long. Violet says Liz is short handed and must go into work.

Factory; Tony says time has ran out. He goes out to the girls and tells them Carla has asked him to tell them they can have a half-day for xmas shopping. They say they would rather work. Tony says it will be paid. They all jump and thank Carla who asks Tony what the hell he is doing. He says it's his lines they are doing and he will move the deadline and pay her any costs. Carla says she is learning things about him. Tony says that he is exciting and unpredictable. Carla says that he watches chick flicks.

Outside Steven says he will take the suitcase and tells David to tell everyone, he will have sandwiches for them. Mel's police friend congratulates her for getting in. The bookie gets on to Blanche for taking pens but is told they cost nothing. He shouts for his dad and says the van is here. He tells his son he will be a free agent when he gets back.

Salon; Darryl comes in asking if David has his £20. He says no. Sarah asks why he owes him money. Audrey gives it to him. Gail comes in. David says Steven is making sandwiches. Sarah says she will gets cakes and asks David what he would like. David looking confused says a donut.

Outside Michelle and Liam pull up. Lloyd gets out of the taxi and says the guy caught him hanging about so he went round the corner. He points to the house. Liam tells him to knock on the door. He asks what he told the guy about hanging about all day. Michelle says she will do it and they can give her the nod if it's him. Liam tells Lloyd he is going to be speaking to this guy today.

Streetcars; Steve comes in asking what she has done with his girlfriend. Claire says Lloyd found the stalker and she went after him. Steve says what. Claire says it's ok as Liam is with her. He asks for the address but Claire says she took it with her. Steve says for her to radio them. Claire says she just did and he's not there.

Michelle rings the bell. Just then her mobile rings. She picks it up and says she can't talk and hangs up. Just then a lad answers the door. Michelle looks in horror. He asks what is up with her, but she runs. Liam asks what happened. Michelle still horrified says he looked liked Dean and asks what is going on.

Episode rating 7/10

This report is Copyright M@nda

Amanda Souter

We return to Liam and Michelle, outside the man who has been following Ryan (Nick)'s house. Liam is trying to calm Michelle down, telling her there must be some coincidence. He tries to reason with her but Michelle is too distraught. Liam leaves Michelle to go and tell Lloyd he can get back to his work. Steve tries to ring Michelle but she doesn't answer her phone to him.

Kelly and Vicki are outside Streetcars watching Steve desperately trying to get into the factory. Steve asks them if they have Liam's number. They're no help. Liz shouts to Steve across the road about Michelle leaving her in the lurch, she's quite upset about it because she's got Betty in a huff and she's had to bring Violet in on her day off.

Back with Liam and Michelle's still waiting outside Nick's house. Michelle is convinced Dean had an affair. She wonders if he's even dead. Liam tells her he knows Dean is definitely dead and he tries to reason with her again. Michelle drags him over to have another look at the boy in the house to prove to Liam how much he looked like Dean. However, when a woman approaches the house, she lets herself in with her key. Michelle and Liam are confused.

Mel Morton and her copper mate, Abi are walking down the street. Mel is pleased because she's been accepted into the Police. While she and her friend are waiting for a bus, Dan Mason sticks his head out of the bookies to share some small talk. Mel mentions they're off out celebrating and he'd be welcome to join them. Dan doesn't seem keen though and tells them he might see them in the Rovers later. Mel's copper mate tells Mel, "What did I say? Once they find out you're a bobby, they can't get away fast enough!" Mel reminds her that he said he *might* see them later but Abi her a piece of police advice; to stop believing everything she's told. "If their lips are moving, they're lying!"

At Gail's everyone's enjoying Sarah's treat of cakes. Sarah offers David a donut. David asks her which one she's poisoned. Gail tells David off. Sarah asks Steven about Italy. Steven tells Sarah that he won't be spending too much time there but that everyone will be welcome to visit. The family make a joke about all piling over for a free holiday together and while everyone's laughing, Sarah whispers to David, "You won't be there to see it!"

At the house again with Michelle and Liam, the young boy leaves the house with the woman who entered earlier. Michelle tells Liam to look at the young lad when he turns round but the opportunity never presents itself. When they leave in the woman's car, Michelle gets out of the car and marches to the house and knocks on the door. When Nick answers and Michelle asks him why he's been following Ryan, he invites them in, unexpectedly.

At the Rovers, Steve is trying frantically to contact Michelle. Lloyd comes in and tells Steve where Michelle is and not to worry because she and Liam will go to the police. He assures Steve that they'll be back at the pub very soon. Meanwhile, on the other side of the bar, Kelly and Vicki are chatting. Kelly thinks that technically, they should be getting paid extra for their time off. After all, when they're at work, they're earning but not spending. but, when they're at the pub, they're spending as well as earning, which means they're earning less. Sounds like logic to me, Kelly!

Michelle and Liam are inside Nick's house. He tells them they really should sit down but Michelle just wants to know what's going on. He tells them, the young lad who Michelle saw earlier is Alex and Ryan, the boy that Michelle brought up, he thinks is not her son but is his.

After the break, we're back with Michelle, Liam and Nick. He tells a long convoluted story about how he got sick a few years ago and finding out through blood tests, his son, Alex is not his biological son. He accused his wife of cheating but she swore blind she hadn't and it split the marriage up. Later on his wife got her own tests done and found out that she was not the biological mother of Alex either. The hospital mentioned that there must have been a mix up at the hospital when the boys were born. Michelle goes into denial and doesn't want to believe it. She has a bit of a scream at Nick and runs outside. She runs into Steve and tells him to take her home.

At Gail's Jason asks Sarah what she's up to. Sarah plays dumb and Gail butts in and says Sarah can be nice when she wants to. After Jason leaves, Sarah tries to make Gail believe that David is on drugs by pointing out his mood swings and other symptoms. Gail refuses to believe her, gets annoyed with Sarah and tells her, "David is not on drugs. He's up and down because he's leaving home. What's your excuse?"

Mel and Abi are at the bar at the Rovers talking about rubbish chat up lines men use when they find out that they're policemen. Just as they get to the worst one of them, Dan Mason shows up and says, "'Ello, 'ello, 'ello!" obliging them. Kelly and Vicki are in a booth when Carla and Tony turn up. Kelly mentions that Carla could buy her a drink, since they've been given half a day. Carla reminds her it was supposed to be for Christmas shopping. Vicki says all her presents are already bought, wrapped and posted. Tony asks them if they'd like to go back to work and Kelly and Vicki scarper- sharpish, like.

Out in the car, Steve is trying to get Michelle to tell him what happened. Michelle can't quite say it though. She tells Steve that Nick was just trying to do her head i

Back in the Rovers, Dan is chatting up his two copper girlfriends; he seems to be scoring with Abi. Michelle and Steve come back into the pub and Liz demands to know where they've been. Steve tells her to leave it. Michelle goes through to the living room where she knows Ryan is but can't bring herself to go into the room. Liam turns up and asks Steve if Michelle is ok. Steve still doesn't know exactly what happened.

In the front of the pub, Liam demands to know why the factory is shut from Tony and Carla. They tell them the girls are all either out shopping or not fit to operate machinery. Liam is not a happy bunny and refuses a drink.

Steve is still trying to find out what happened from Michelle, in the hallway in back of the Rovers. Michelle just turns around for a comforting cuddle.

Maria looks out her window to see Carla and Liam arguing outside the pub about Carla letting the girls off early for the day. She comes out to ask them if everything's ok. Carla goes back inside. Maria asks what's wrong with them both but Liam doesn't want to talk about it. Instead he asks how she and the baby are doing. Maria tells him she feel better after the scan later on in the week. Liam says he'll see her later after work, gives her a kiss and leaves.

As Liam leaves, Dan and Abi come staggering out of the pub, over to Dan's place, drunkenly bantering all the way.

Gail, in her back yard, sees David having fun with Darryl Morton, outside Darryl's shed. Sarah comes out and mentions to Gail something about Audrey paying off David's debts to Darryl. She points out that David and Darryl seem to be "in a good mood", insinuating drugs. Gail tells her that teenage lads enjoy themselves, it's normal. ie: she's not listening to Sarah's accusations.

Dan and his date for the evening come back to Dan's flat where it looks as though Dan has been burgled. Abi offers to phone the police, advising him not to touch anything for fear of disturbing prints but Dan tells her it's not a burglary because his stuff is still there with a load of somebody else's stuff. Harry comes out of the bedroom and apologises for disturbing them. Apparently getting his ex out of his wasn't as easy as he thought it was going to be. Abi begs off, telling him she'll see him another time. Dan tells Harry that Abi is a nurse. It looks like Harry is here to stay for a while.

Michelle and Steve are on the stairs at the Rovers. Michelle has told Steve what she heard from Nick today but she still doesn't believe it. She doesn't believe that she left Ryan alone at the hospital. Steve reckons that Nick's wife is trying to cover up an affair or something. Steve reassures Michelle that he, Michelle, Ryan and Amy are a family and no freak that hangs around Ryan's school is going to change that. Ryan comes out of the living room and can see that Michelle has been crying. He asks her what's happened. Michelle grabs him and hugs him and tells him she loves him, crying.

Stella McLoughlin

A happy Christmas to one and all – here's the update for Wednesday 19th December.

Fizz and John cross the road towards his car, Fizz is thinking about Christmas and inviting Chesney over, John is thinking about Friday – it's the end of term. Rosie steps out of the Webster front door and immediately phones John's mobile. He looks to see who it is, and shoves it back in his pocket. Fizz notices Rosie and suggests he gives her a lift to school, but John thinks it wouldn't look good for either of them. "Oh no, you can't be too careful I suppose," agrees Fizz.

They part company to go to their respective work places. As Fizz passes the salon she sees David outside who is sweeping the pavement. He comes out with an Italian phrase – in a week's time he'll be in Milan and never have to sweep up outside a back street hairdressers ever again.

Michelle is looking thoughtfully at an old photo album. Steve sits down beside her and tells her that just because Alex looks like Dean, it doesn't mean anything. After all he and his brother were twins and didn't look a bit alike. Michelle thinks that it's more likely that the hospital has made a mistake with the medical tests they've just done, rather than mix up the babies at birth.

Jerry Morton and Darryl are hauling a huge Christmas tree into their house – Jerry is anticipating a wonderful Christmas.

Steve escorts Ryan to school, who wonders why Michelle was looking at pictures of his dad and asks if his mum and Steve have had a bust up. Steve tells him it's Christmas, a time when people miss people. Ryan looks around him, looking for ‘that bloke'. Steve says that Liam probably scared him away.

In the salon, Audrey is finishing off Rita's hair, Rita tells her that she's taking Norris and Emily to a posh restaurant for Christmas dinner. David's full of his new venture. Liz asks Sarah if she's jealous but she says she's just pleased to get Bethany's bedroom back.

Vernon is busy in the back room of the Rovers, writing his wedding vows. Michelle opens the door with Jim in tow, he's come for Amy. Vernon says she's next door with the Barlows so he rushes off to get her. While he's waiting, Jim notices the wedding vows on the table and reads them.

Gail goes into Dev's shop to find Molly wearing a pair of antlers. Dev dons a Santa hat and a flashing red nose, (shouldn't that go with the antlers?) as Gail tells them that David's Christmas present is an Italian language course, he's off to start afresh in a new country with a clean slate.

Liz has joined Jim in the Rovers as he waits for Amy. Over a cuppa, they talk about their sons and he tells her he always thought that Andy would have been the successful one, rather than Steve. Just then Vernon arrives with Amy and Jim takes her and as he goes out through the bar, Vernon follows. Jim turns to Vernon and tells him he hid the wedding vows from Liz, he didn't think Vernon would want her to see them. He heads off across the Street, and Vernon rushes after him. "You read my vows!" he said, "you had no right!" Jim says he's sorry if he's upset, but he didn't think he would want Elizabeth to see them. Vernon concedes that he wouldn't. "Are we done?" asks Jim. Vernon says they are, and turns to go back inside. Jim calls him back and tells him that they were dead good. He adds that he's known Liz for 30 years and he's sure they'll bring a tear to her eye. After Vernon has gone back inside Jim turns to Amy and wonders what on earth her granny see in him.

Nick, (Ryan's stalker) comes into the Rovers. Michelle is shocked to see him, but he wants to talk, so she takes a break and sits down with him. He tells her he wants the truth. She tells him the truth is that Ryan is her son and hospitals do not mix babies up, and she thinks they've just mixed up the test results. He tells her that the only way to be sure is to take a DNA test. Michelle wonders what Alex's mum thinks about what he's doing, and he admits she doesn't know. Michelle thinks that his break up with her is the cause of all this. He says he just wants to get to the bottom of it all, and he's sure she'll never rest properly again either until she knows for certain.

Over at Leanne's restaurant, Sarah is busy waiting on tables. A young man at one of the tables takes an interest in her and offers her a glass of their wine. She refuses and then sees Jason and Stephen come in. She goes over to say hello quickly and then continues to work. She gets chatting to the young man again and discovers that he has some drugs on him, so that he can party long into the night.

In the Morton house, they're decorating the tree, David arrives to see if Darryl is coming out.

Back at the restaurant, Sarah is flirting outrageously with the young man, telling him that when she does decide to be bad, no-one sees it coming.

Chesney is delivering his papers when he runs into Fizz. She asks him if he'll come for Christmas dinner. "All three of us?" asks Chesney, meaning him, Kirk and Schmeichel. Fizz gently tries to tell him that it wouldn't really be right for Kirk to come as well, so Chesney loyally says he won't leave Kirk on his own and refuses Fizz's invitation.

Sarah approaches the young man in the restaurant and asks him for some of the drugs he has. He tells her to come outside with him.

Michelle tells Steve that Nick came to visit, and that he wants a DNA test. She says she's not going to do it, and neither is Ryan. Trying to be the voice of reason, Steve tells her that Nick doesn't seem to be the type that will back down, and if he was in her shoes he would want to know, to get to the bottom of it. Michelle weeps and tells Steve she loves Ryan with all her heart. He tells her that's something that is not going to change. She wonders why Nick can't just go away and leave them alone.

Gail is ironing when Sarah gets in from her job at the restaurant. Gail asks if she had a good night and Sarah tells her it was really, really good. She asks where David is and Gail tells her he's gone to Darryl's, and he was perfectly ok, bright, chatty and the nearest he can get to being good company. Sarah thinks that's a sure sign he's up to something.

John is getting a kebab for Fizz when he runs into Rosie outside the kebab shop. He asks if she's been out and she tells him she's been to a mate's house. "Worried I'd been on a date?" she asks him. He says he wasn't, and then, looking at the kebab box in his hand, says he has to get back. "So you don't want to talk to me on the phone and you don't want to talk to me face to face either?" says Rosie. John tells her it's difficult and Rosie asks if he's dumping her. He assures her he isn't, but he has to go. Rosie tells him to ring or text her and he says he will.

David arrives home tired and refuses a hot chocolate when Gail offers him one. He goes off to bed, and Sarah tells her mum that he's not so bright and chatty now. Gail says it's just because he's tired, but Sarah persists with the idea that David could be on drugs. "You work in a medical centre, there must be someone you could talk to there," she says. Gail goes off to bed, and when she's alone Sarah goes to her coat pocket and pulls out a little plastic bag containing tablets, and smiles.

Anne Logan

Glad tidings to all (except Gail and Sally, with any luck!) as we launch into another Friday night episode:

Sally's in the garage talking about celebrating Rosie's birthday. She thinks they should celebrate it on Sunday, instead of Monday, because everywhere will be packed on Monday. Kev's not so sure. The factory workers come past (doesn't Sean work there any more? Did he leave and I didn't notice?) all hyped up ready for their Christmas party. Sally says she's only going to stay for five minutes, then she's off home.

When they get inside, we can see that five minutes might be a bit long. There's a very meagre spread indeed. Though what clothing factory would lay out food and drink in among the machines and freshly-made stock, I know not! There is a rather raunchy red nightie and some pink satin pyjamas hanging up nearby. There must be another room where the ‘jams and nighties are made because this lot never seem to work on anything but knickers. Maybe the girls who work in the ‘jams room all live in Rosamund Street and that's a completely different series? Anyway, Janice thinks the spread is just crumbs from Madam Carla's table. In the office, Liam wants to go and get a few more cans, but Carla doesn't want "that lot off their faces tattooing each other with sewing machines. This is a place of work, not a disco." So why has she put out the drink at the start of the day, then?

In the back of the pub, Michelle tries to stop Ryan going to his mate Phil's. Steve offers to take him, but Michelle argues that then he can't get back. Steve says he'll pick him up, though Michelle points out Steve won't be here. Michelle makes Ryan promise to phone for a lift home. Ryan goes to get his stuff and Liz asks Michelle exactly what it is she's frightened of. Liz says she doesn't want Ryan to see the man on his own. Liz backs off, but she does wonder how long they can stop a lad of Ryan's age from going out on his own.

In the salon, a sneaky-looking Sarah puts something in a drawer. Audrey, busy with someone's nails, asks Maria what she's having done today. It's the day of her scan. "A picture of the bambino, si?" asks David. All Sarah can remember of the scan is how cold the gel felt on her belly. Maria leave the salon to a "Ciao, Maria!" from David.

Outside she meets Liam, who tells her the spread is the measliest he's ever seen. "It's like a packet of Twiglets, a hard-boiled egg and a bottle of alcopop between them. Scandalous." As he and Maria drive away, John comes out of the Kabin and phone Rosie to tell her that if she comes out now it will look as if they've just met by accident. She does, but instead of acting casual, she stalks up close to him and says she wants to see him. He tells her that Christmas is a bad time for "people like us" who want to be together but have to spend time with others they'd rather not be with. Rosie thinks he should just tell Fizz*, but he says he can't, and Rosie should be grown-up enough to understand that. She looks at him. "OK, then. I'll tell her." John says they could arrange a night away somewhere, but it'll have to be Sunday night. He promises to arrange it.

Tony has arrived at the factory. He tells Carla that he understands they're having a Christmas party there this afternoon and he never comes to a party empty-handed. He asks if she's got a trolley he can borrow.

Steve arrives back from dropping off Ryan. Michelle tells him she doesn't want the man filling Ryan's head with lies. Vernon comes in and wants to know if Steve's recruited anyone else for his stag do. Steve didn't know he was supposed to be trying. He leaves and Michelle tells Steve she's hoping she'll never have to tell Ryan anything.

Tony wheels in a trolley filled with bubbly and a Christmas dinosaur, along with plates of food.

Audrey sends David off to the shop for milk and biscuits. Sarah tells Audrey that David keeps pinching the scissors Audrey gave Sarah for her birthday. But Sarah doesn't want to fetch them from David's drawer because it's his private things in there. Audrey says she'll do it. "If he wants to be private, he shouldn't borrow from other people." She can't find the scissors and has a good rattle around in there, coming up with a small plastic bag of pills. Sarah tells her they're Ecstasy tablets. "Ecstasy tablets in my salon?" gasps Audrey.

Sarah pleads with Audrey not to tell Gail. But Audrey says she can't just ignore it. Sarah says the pills might not even be David's, but Audrey says they must be because they were in David's drawer. David comes in with the biscuits and Audrey holds out the tablets. She demands to know what they were doing in his drawer. He denies all knowledge. "Well, let's go and see what your mother thinks about this then, shall we?" and she hustles David out the door. Sarah smiles behind them.

The factory women are carrying on drinking and eating, together with a whole bunch of strangers we've never seen before. Must be the ‘jama room folk. Sally appears to have forgotten she was only going to stay for five minutes and gets philosophical about the meaning of love and happiness. Liam and Maria arrive back. "They must have had a parcel from the Red Cross," suggests Liam, before he spots Tony canoodling with Carla in the office. Liam's annoyed that Tony was allowed to buy extra but he wasn't. Tony hands him a glass of bubbly.

Gail is railing at David. Sarah sends Bethany upstairs and goes to put the tea on. Gail and Audrey say they never should have believed him promises. David keeps reiterating that he has no idea where the drugs came from, but Gail points out that that's what he said when Bethany was lying in hospital. Gail says she's going to show the Es to Steven, as well. David protests but Gail says it shows what David's state of mind is. "You can't be trusted on your own because we never know what you're going to do next." All David's pleading has no effect. She's determined to tell Steven.

Northern Soul Nostalgia Night at the Rochdale Town Hall is the venue for the stage party, Vernon tells Bill and Dev. They're the entire stag party, apparently and you can see them working out how to get out of it. John is in the pub. He phones Rosie to say he's booked a little hotel in the Peak District.

Kevin comes in and tells Rosie they're going out for her birthday on Sunday. That annoys her!

Maria's showing her scan picture around the factory but Liam takes her away, telling the girls Happy Christmas on the way out. In the office, Tony can't work out why Liam doesn't like him. Carla tells him that Liam thinks she should still be in mourning.

The factory staff are now in the pub. Fizz meets John, who tells her he has to go home for a big do on Sunday. He says it's not a good idea for Fizz to go because he wants to introduce her to his mum and dad when there's no-one else there. Behind the bar, Liz tells the others to take care of Vernon. They leave. Michelle tells Liz that it's not as if they're off to Berlin on a wild weekend. "They're pretty wild in Rochdale," Liz points out.

Outside, Vernon seems hyperactive. He breaks the news to the others that a couple of the bands have had to pull out of the Northern Soul night, but promises it'll still be good. As they get into the car, we see Jim watching. He shakes his head in a tsk-tsk sort of way.

At the Webster dinner party, Rosie tells her parents Sunday is no good. She's going to an all-night party at Danielle's.

Steven is at Gail's house. The same question (Whose are they if they're not yours?) and the same answer (I keep saying I don't know!) are going back and forth and back and forth. Steven points out that the deal was he'd take David to Italy only if he behaved himself. Gail says she was never happy about it anyway. She's now refusing to let him go because he can't be trusted. "You've just proved that you've not altered. Nothing's changed. You need watching and you need looking after." Steven tells David he's having to withdraw the offer. Gail tells him she's not going to let him go because of what he's done in the past and what he might do in the future. "You're not fit to be on your own!" Sarah can't help a smirk or two.

Jim goes into the pub. He sits at the bar and asks Liz for a water. He says Vernon's isn't the biggest stag night he's ever seen. Liz says he won't get her to say anything bad about Vernon. Jim agrees that she's made her choice and he probably can't say anything to change that. "The question is: Will he make you happier than I did?" Liz just looks at him.

David comes downstairs to find Sarah in the kitchen. "You, were it?" he asks. She just looks at him. She reminds him that when she asked if he drove into the canal just to spoil her wedding day, he said nothing. He just smiled. "So, now look," she says. And she smiles.

The End
Margaret Carr

*Footnote: This storyline about John and Fizz and Rosie has been really annoying me because of the emphasis that's been put on Fizz being not very bright. When Fizz designed some garments for Mike Baldwin's factory, we learned that she has eight GCSEs.

Hi. I will be back with the first half of Christmas Day very shortly but the news this evening from the front line in Weatherfield is as follows:

Betty and Liz discuss how the former's sister actually brought up Gordon as they discuss adoption with Michelle listening in the background. Age old question - which do you love more - the adopted child or the natural child? Betty reckons the former because one had to fight for it. Liz poses the question - Do you think Madonna does? And as Betty replies she went a long way for it - Malawi is hardly Prestwich!

Rosie is in full warpaint as she packs for her overnight stay with a friend and even tells her mother that she is sorry about cancelling the meal. Sally is understanding that a sleepover would be more fun than spending time with her family. Rosie acknowledges that they always try to make the time before Christmas special. She suggests Sally tries to see if they can book something for Monday (in quite a "nasty" way to my mind).

Fiz arrives home to find John hiding a wrapped present. She spots the sticky tape and tells him she is not nosey and will not peek. John sighs with relief and recovers what is presumably a gift for Rosie.

Gail departs for the Rovers and advises David that she will have her mobile with her. They exchange comments in a less than friendly manner. David tells her not to bring back chips as he might have slashed his wrists listening to Wham (Sarah is obviously reliving her youth) and suggests Gail secures the front window - there is a foot and a half drop - he might do himself some serious damage. Sarah leans on the sofa behind David once Gail has gone - Poor David, she says, a failure in everything he does - why he cannot even top himself successfully.

Carla calls for Maria as they are going to Elizabeth's hen party (why - they cannot stand each other!). Maria tells Carla that she looks nice who responds it is her usual look and Liam gets a word in - what's that Trollop? (No not the author, look do I have to explain all the jokes on this programme?). Carla is however envious as Maria and Liam snog the face off each other as they part.

In the Rovers Dev and Vernon are showing no signs of a hangover. Elizabeth has a stripper booked - no a male stripper - Commando Sam - apparently she has always had a thing for men in uniform according to Jim who is always it seems in the Rovers despite promising to stay away! At this point Liz arrives, announces it is ladies only this evening and will all the men leave (legally can she do that - Sex Discrimination Act surely prevents a pub being declared unisex during licensing hours?). Anyway all the men leave - not an ounce of rebellion in any of them!

Gail departs with Simon passing Eileen on the way out who asks Gail if she has always been a man in drag! Anyway Gail responds by saying that Jason had revealed how alone Eileen would be on Tuesday and perhaps she would like to join them for the turkey? They eat at one and don't bring anything and she leaves before Eileen can work out any form of answer. Jason walks past and Eileen thumps his arm hard as thanks for the invitation she had received.

The hen party start discussing ideal men. Blanche reveals that it would be George Melly (good on yer gal). Betty rather fancies Eammon Holmes (I think she might be confused with Eammon Andrews, but I suppose she knows what she is saying). Liz announces that in her (extensive) experience Vernon is a good kisser, but Maria is quick to announce that Liam is very good in that department. Carla says "oh pullease, he ain't that good", which rather quietens the atmosphere as everyone realises that she has opened a trollops mouth and placed a rather oversized size 12 right inside her mouth. Luckily within seconds Commando Sam is announced and a rather nice black man starts dancing around the bar. Throughout Maria and Michelle look as they might actually go mad and kill Carla. The latter is soon aware of how Maria feels. Michelle is the first to want to know the whens and the wherefores. Carla gives her short shrift. Blanche is taking it all in and asks Maria if Liam puts it about - Dreary used to but she has the sex life of a nun now (which is not exactly a thought I am happy sharing, as I did not really want to think about it again). Carla tells Maria that she is not sure why she said it - but as Maria points out it was to make sure everyone knew she had kissed Liam. Carla replies - "yeah, but, (no she has not escaped from Catherine Tate) it didn't mean anything. Michelle snaps back with little effect.

By now Sam is sitting on Liz's lap.

The Platts etc arrive home and are going to watch a DVD of Steven's trips - but David is not interested and heads for bed.

R'Audrey wades in on behalf of Maria asking Carla what her game is - the response is poker what's yours!! Audrey offers to rephrase it so she does - are you having an affair with Liam? Carla does not back down - No are you? Come off it Audrey, no one died (well not yet but the ice picks in Michelle and Maria's hands are a bit threatening). Audrey threatens Carla that if she has been messing Maria around ... Carla picks the line up - you'll do what? Give me a bad haircut? Oh unkind Carla, you old witch.

Elsewhere in the Rovers Fiz has had a phone call from John but the call does not last long as the line is breaking up. She is next to Sally and explains that he has gone to the Isle of Man to see his family. Has she missed anything by being late? Sally reports on Carla's comment and then asks what Fiz would do if she caught John kissing another woman. Fiz responds that she is grateful she is with someone who understands the word faithful.

At which point we find John in a hotel room with Rosie and her underwear on (just). As he observes if he still had his glasses on they would all be steamed up by her entrance. He has a little gift for her. Turns out it is a book "Shoot all the Bluejays you want if you can hit them, but remember to Kill a Mockingbird is a Sin". {At this point your intrepid reporter can report that he is uneducated because he has never read this particular book} which John comments is the best book he has ever read. Apparently it is not trendy, but it is passionate, articulate and full of ideas. Rosie is interested in the idea of passion (and not much else) and tells John just to kiss her.

Back at the Rovers the rather large ladies (which is presumably somewhere in the front room of Number 1 Coronation Street) enables Maria and Carla to come face to face. Maria wants to know when they snogged. Carla confirms that it was after Paul had died and before Maria and Liam got involved. Carla says there is no affair, it lasted one second and she regrets it. She could not be like Maria - she could not be the "other woman". She has too much self respect. Maria leaves the Rovers, she wants a few words with Liam herself.

At Plattland Sarah is now working on Uncle Steven. She is so angry with David for letting Steven down. Steven does not quite grasp the point she is making when she says she is sure that the housing problem can be solved and she and Jason and Beth will find somewhere to live ...

Steve and Ryan are happily playing video games together and Michelle slips outside for some fresh air in the alleyway at the back. She gets out some cigarettes when Steve arrives alongside her. She has not had one for years - but now? He tells her not to start. He asks her what is she going to do? She does not want to cry - but starts Steve pulls her towards him to give comfort. She is scared that if she starts crying she may not stop.

In the Rovers back yard Liz and Dreary are sitting smoking. The latter commented that the former's ideal man sounded more like Jim than Vernon. Liz admits that ten years earlier she would never have looked at Vernon, but she has had more than her share of macho men and that fantasies should remain just that.

Liam wonders why Maria has returned early. He asks after the party goers, particularly if Carla is behaving herself and Maria wants to know why he is interested in her. She told him that he should have seen the male stripper - Carla was all over him. She not backward in coming forward sighs Liam. Maria tells Liam that she thinks Carla fancies him. He reckons she is joking - Carla hates his guts and the feeling is mutual. "So why did you kiss her then?" asks Maria. Liam cannot believe his ears. Why? She me Liam - she told the whole pub, I'm pregnant with our child and Carla told the whole pub you had kissed. He says there was nothing in it and he would not deny it. He knows she has kissed men before but did he ask for a list? She answers that this is different and he should have told her. He did not tell because he was embarrassed. Paul had just died. She made a move and he went along with it - but he regretted it instantly and he was trying to pretend it never happened. He is upset they even are discussing it. He cannot stand her, he cannot look her in the face.

She is silent then asks if he wants another lager and goes into the kitchen to get it, whilst Liam sits in the living room contemplating the horror of the revelation.

See you again soon.

K Richard W

Christmas Eve!

Michelle and Steve are trying to get into the Christmas spirit but the question over Ryan's parentage is weighing heavily on Michelle, who's still trying to deny it could be true. Steve encourages her to try talk about it and with some difficulty Michelle finally opens up and admits she knows Nick could be right and this is never going to go away, so she's going to go to speak to him today. But is she prepared to hear what he has to say?

Rosie's dreams of a romantic escape are shattered when John is reluctant to indulge in a luxurious champagne breakfast with her the next morning and scurries around trying to get ready, feeling guilty about Fiz.

Back on the Street, Fiz is brimming with excitement at the prospect of her first Christmas with John but when Rosie informs him that she wants a proper relationship and that one stolen night isn't enough for her, he's shocked. As Rosie tells him that she won't share him with Fiz and if he doesn't tell her then she will, he's worried. Will John end his relationship with Fiz on Christmas Eve? If he doesn't how will he ensure his affair remains a secret?

Meanwhile, no one believes David's assertion that Sarah set him up, and whilst he becomes more and more depressed, Sarah continues to work on Stephen, subtly dropping hints that she and Jason would love to move out of Weatherfield. Will Stephen take the bait?

Elsewhere, Maria is still seething about Liam and Carla's kiss. When Liam confronts Carla about why she told the whole pub about it, Carla acts blasé claiming that the kiss meant nothing to her but by his reaction it was obviously a big deal to him. Carla's clearly jealous but will Liam let her come between him and Maria?

Erica Houston

Apologies for delayed posting of this update- technology is wonderful until it cruelly stops working when you need it to! Also for brevity. I've pieced it together from hand-written notes made while my lovely mum talked over the top of the dialogue. Well, we only see each other once or twice a year, I thought it might be a bit rude to say, "Mum! Please! It's Corrie!" Anyway....

Out on the street, Rosie, mistress of emotional manipulation, pouts and convinces John to dump Fizz on Christmas eve. He says he'll do it his way though. She goes home to blow out the candles on her birthday cake with her Mum and Dad who have been waiting for hours.

There's a lovely little exchange between Kirk and Chesney at their house. A parcel is delivered from Cilla in the USA which contains Christmas pressies for Chesney- an Elvis mug and some cold, hard, American cash. Kirk reminisces about his Dad who was a great fan of Elvis's "In the Ghetto".

David and Gail are in the kitchen where David tells him Mum he's going out and not coming to the family dinner. He reminds Gail he's 17 tomorrow (So what, David? Last I checked, 18 was the magic number. Or am I hopelessly out of touch now?) and that she'll see him when she sees him.

At Nick's, Michelle discovers that Alex is very much the same stroppy teenager as "her" Ryan is.

In the Rovers, Carla and Liam discuss what Liam has bought Ryan for Christmas before Tony Gordon arrives. Tony offers to buy the factory girls a drink which puts Liam's nose out of joint and he buys them a drink instead.

Back with Michelle and she tells Nick she is quite sure that Ryan is her son. Nick tells her that in that case she should have the DNA test as she has nothing to fear. She wonders how the test results would affect the boys and Nick tells her that they have a right to know their proper parentage.

At Fizz's place, John tries to find a suitable time to tell Fizz that they're over as a couple. Fizz manages to babble about fairy lights and Chesney making Christmas cakes though and John can't break her heart yet.

At Nick's house, Nick manages to persuade Michelle to take the DNA test. He promises her that without it, her family will be torn apart but that if she does take it, then he'll be able to support her, what with him having known about their unique problem for such a long time.

Back with Fizz and John, Fizz can tell something is wrong with John and asks him about it. He comes within a hair's breadth of breaking up with her but backs out after Fizz asks him he wants to break up with her. Instead, he blames Christmas for him being such a grumpy so & so.

Outside the Rovers in the car, Steve reassures Michelle that by taking the test, she is doing the right thing. She doesn't seem convinced. She hopes that she is.

In the Rovers, Liam and Maria are all over each other while Carla looks on. Fizz arrives too late for the champers that Liam bought for the factory girls. Poor Fizz, I feel for her now- nobody likes to miss out on bubbly!

At Gail's, sneaky Sarah is offered the job David was to do for Steven in Milan. Sarah, volunteering Jason to be a stay-at-home Dad and look after Bethany so she can take it, is delighted, as she should be.

At The Rovers, Rosie, Gail and Kevin run into John. John is uncomfortable and heads back to Fizz. Rosie wishes him "Good Luck!" as he heads off. Sally wonders why Rosie would say such an odd thing and Rosie makes a nasty remark about him being with Fizz and needing luck.

Also, in the Rovers, surprisingly (or not), Jason doesn't seem as thrilled as Sarah when he finds out the news of them moving to Milan.

At Roy's cafe, Becky and Roy are talking about Christmas and Becky sees Kirk and Chesney at the door. She hilariously refers to them at The Krankies and after they come in they all make plans to have Christmas together, Kirk, Ches, Roy and Becky.

Maria and Carla are in the Rovers too where Carla apologises for having blurted out the business about their kiss. Maria tells her she shouldn't have been so upset about it and puts it down to her pregnancy hormones. Liam comes over and Carla is visibly disturbed by their closeness. Meanwhile, Sarah is trying to persuade Jason that emigrating to Milan is a marvellous idea. It's only a three month trial to begin with and she thinks it's worth giving it a go.

Rosie asks John how it went breaking up with Fizz on her way to the ladies'. She's not happy when she finds out that he hasn't told her yet and tells her he has to do it. In the back of the Rovers, Michelle has an exchange with Ryan which reminds her of the DNA teszt looming ahead of them. Fizz and John leave the Rovers and as they watch Emily's carollers, they have a sloppy lovers moment where Fizz tells John how wonderful he is and how much she's in love with him. Rosie is watching from across the street, with a filthy look on her face. She's not happy!

Stella McLoughlin

OK suspend disbelief. It is Christmas Day and the residents of the Street provided a one hour special of which I am covering the first half or thereabouts (second ad break anyway).

Written by Simon Crowther and directed by Stuart Davids.

The camera pans along the Street and we enter the Battersby residence where Kirk is unwrapping presents. It is 2:14 when Chesney descends the stairs fearing an intruder, and the smell is the beef cooking. Kirk thanks Ches for the skateboard.

At the Rovers Amy is being shown her presents by Steve and Ryan helps the unwrapping (of facepaints). 'Chelle promises a big fry up and Vernon appears nursing a hangover whilst Liz arrives displaying her monumental assets under a red top and santa hat.

Along at the Tilsey/Platt/Hillman residence David announces he already has the DVD waving it at Gail and to be honest it is really not that great. She apologises and says she will find the receipt. Audrey, Bill and Stephen arrive. David leaps up with a present which Gail thinks is for her but it is in fact for Stephen. It is an Italian dictionary. Sarah and Beth also appear. David starts off trying to wind up Bill and immediately gets told off.

Fiz has found John's present under the bed - but luckily she has not looked at the contents, no peeking. She is a big girl and the presents do not need to be hidden. John wants to get the cooking started and then presents can be unwrapped.

Audrey and Bill have moved over to the Websters for lunch where R'Audrey observes that this year it simply cannot be as bad as Christmas Day last year (and if you weren't there you missed a lot). Bill asks Kev if they are likely to be able to get out later for a drink - he is not sure. Sal has bought Kev a rather red stripy shirt, Sophie almost dies laughing and Kev is not impressed. Sal thought he would like it. Sophie says that the shirt says "I officially give up". Sophie has now started wearing much lower cut tops, heaven help us. Rosie arrives dressed up to the nines, but she has to pop out to find something she has dropped.

In the Street Eileen meets Claire and Ash and wishes them a happy anniversary. Ash claims about 18, but Claire points out that it is only three. They are off to Claire's mum. Eileen is bound to Platt land.

Roy is trying to contact Hayley and wishes the person on the other end of the phone a Joyeux Noel and asks for Hayley to phone back. Becky arrives with Kirk and Chesney. They have brought lights and everything and beef! The latter has been cooked for 11 hours - but it has been burnt to a cinder. Becky hands out a card: "Happy Christmas from Becky".

At Plattland Stephen is saying that in Australia a test match always starts on Boxing Day so Christmas Day is known as Test Match Eve! Eileen is rather surprised that they play cricket in the middle of winter. David tries to explain that it is summer and Eileen suggests that Christmas should be moved to July. Stephen reworks come Christmas carols with a summer theme. The whole scene lacks any jollity and is extremely stilted. David looks like he wants to be sick. Outside Jason and Sarah are discussing moving to Italy. Sarah has been looking at offers on the internet and she is trying to convince him to go. He is not sure. David wants to know what they are whispering about.

John takes a call - obviously Rosie - and he finds that they have no nutmeg - so he will have to go out and get some. Fiz tells him to hurry. John dives under the tree and pulls a present out. Rosie attacks John - he is promising to tell Fiz after Christmas. She demands they go for a drive - and he says 20 minutes at the most - and he goes off. Back at the flat Fiz is sitting on her own.

Jim arrives at the Rovers and goes through to the back. He delivers a present for Amy, tells Michelle she is too skinny and then asks if he can spend a couple of hours (on the water) in the bar. Dreary and Ken arrive and ask after Tracy but the telephone call was not successful.

Back at the cafe they have got the lights up everywhere and turn them on after a countdown. Becky suggests they play a game called Murder and explains the rules. Kirk does not listen.

At the corner shop Dev is cheerful and wearing a Santa hat whilst he has bought golfing clothes for Amber, who is not impressed. Jamie arrives as Laim and Maria depart. Laim claims to have killed a pigeon when he opened a bottle of cava. Jamie accuses him of betraying his class.

Somewhere quiet a Renault purrs to a stop and John and Rosie start arguing. Rosie wants Fiz dumped. John does not want an argument. John says he prefers Rosie. They start kissing - but eventually the mobile goes and Fiz wants to know where he has got to. She wants to open her present. She has to wait.

At the Rovers Rita, Norris and Emily have returned early. There was a scene at the hotel and both Rita and Emily are convinced that Norris was in the wrong, not the hotel manager.

Roy goes upstairs and the phone rings. It is Hayley and Chesney wishes her a merry christmas. He then hangs up asking her to phone back later. Becky cracks a joke at Kirk's expense and he laughs and she realises just how little there really is between his ears.

Sal notices that Rosie is still not back yet. Audrey says that she listens to Rita - but it goes in one ear and out the other, indeed sometimes it goes out the same ear. Over at the Rovers Norris is induced into telling a story of the first time he met a woman - when he was nine. I will save embarrassment by not repeating the story about where the woman put his hand in a soft place (on top of his head) in exchange for three pence.

Fiz is still on her own and looks under the tree. She takes the present she found earlier and unwraps it. Inside are a very small and revealing set of underwear - they would never fit her! Elsewhere Rosie is unwrapping a "massive" pair of pyjamas and Rosie cannot believe her eyes. John realises what has happened and starts the journey back to the Street.

K Richard W

Greetings to one and all! Here's the update for the second part of the Christmas day episode.

Maria and Liam have visited the residents of the Rovers and they're all in the back room opening presents. Steve asks who bought Amy 'The Collected Hits of David Bowie'? It turns out it was Vernon, he says that she heard a track in Dev's shop the other day and really liked it. "Weren't you making noises about wanting that?" asks Liz, but Vernon says that was entirely coincidental.

Fiz is in Dev's shop, but he tells her that John definitely hasn't been in, and anyway they've got lots of nutmeg. He shows her a few pots of it. "And who's that for?" he asks, staring down at the sexy lingerie and torn wrapping paper she's clutching. "No one important, only Sally Webster!" says Fiz. Amber's mouth drops open, "What? Stape's been diddlin' Sally!" she exclaims.

Liam and Steve are having a quiet word together, and Steve tells Liam that Michelle's decided to do the DNA test. Liam is really worried about the wisdom of this, but Michelle walks past at that moment and says she's decided, and that's the end of it. Liam tries to say that it won't be the end of it, but she pushes on past him.

In the café, the little group of misfits are tucking into their Christmas dinner, with carols blaring from the radio and paper hats on their heads. Becky winks at Chesney, who stares at her, seemingly uncomprehending. Roy asks if they could turn down the volume, the music is very loud, but meets protests that it's festive. Just as the song comes to an end and there's a moment of silence, they hear the phone ringing. Roy leaps up to answer it, but it's too late, the caller has hung up.

The Websters have started on their Christmas dinner without waiting for Rosie. Just then there's a knocking at the door and Kevin, assuming that Rosie has returned, tells Sophie to go and let her in. A few moments later, Fiz is standing beside the dinner table, torn open present in her hand and a tearful look on her face. "That must be for you!" she says to Sally, flinging the present down in front of her. She turns to Kevin. "We were right!" she says, and sniffs loudly. "Right about what?" says Sally. "My boyfriend and your wife," says Fiz, still to Kevin. Sally is astonished. "You thought that….." she begins, but Kevin hastily tries to say they knew it was stupid. Audrey, trying to make sense of what is unfolding in front of her, asks why Fiz's boyfriend would buy Sally underwear. Kevin asks what it says on the label, but Fiz says John wouldn't write a name on a label. Sally is outraged, "You thought I was having an affair?" Kevin tries to send Sophie to her room at this point, but she refuses to go. Fiz tearfully says how she found the present under the bed, not her size, not her style. Sally then gets cross with Kevin, "You believe her, don't you?" she says, and Fiz reckons it's written all over her face.

Over at the Platt's they are all enjoying their Christmas dinner, when the conversation comes round to Bethany having piano lessons. Gail says she thought Sarah had already spoken to someone, but Sarah says she's now thinking of finding someone a bit more 'continental'. "Don't you think, Jase?" she says, sipping her wine.

Back at the Webster's, the row is still continuing, with Fiz refusing to believe Sally's innocence. Bill suggests they all go outside and calm down, but Fiz says she doesn't want to. "Why is everybody looking at me?" says Sally, "she's out of her mind!" Kevin wants to know if what Fiz is saying is true, and Sally looks straight at him. "How could you ask me that?" she says quietly. Fiz tells her she's a lying cow, and Sally then shouts, "Of course it's not true!"

Outside, John's car comes speeding round the corner and he jumps out and runs to the flat. Inside, he scrambles under the tree, looking for the present, and then shouting for Fiz.

Sally tells Fiz to take her knickers and go, but Fiz says she's not going without an explanation, and tells them that John said he was going out for nutmeg. Bill, very reasonably, points out that if she thinks that John is out there knocking somebody off, it can't be Sally because she's there. "Thank heavens for Dr Watson!" says Sally, and Kevin agrees that Sally has been there all day. "You really suspected this was true?" Sally asks Kevin, but he doesn't answer. She then turns to Fiz and tells her that if John is seeing somebody it's no one's business but hers, and she had no right to burst in there on Christmas day with their daughter present. She says John teaches her English, they're friends, nothing more. "Well if it isn't you, who is it?" cries Fiz, and just then Rosie comes in behind her, holding her torn open present of flannelette pyjamas. There's a few moments silence as they all look from one present to another, and one face to another, as the penny drops. Fiz stares at Rosie. "You?" she says, incredulously. "Er...no...er...this is from a friend," stammers Rosie, "it's not from John, I swear it's not!" Kevin quietly points out that nobody said it was.

Outside, Rita, Norris and Emily are wandering down the Street on their way home when suddenly the Webster's front door opens and Fiz runs out. At the same moment, across the road, John runs out of their flat door, and they meet up on the cobbles. "Nutmeg…you said you were buying nutmeg!" sobs Fiz. The Webster family rush up behind her and as John tries to say he's sorry, Kevin grabs him and punches him, knocking him to the ground where he continues to lay into him. Bill eventually pulls him off, and as he does so, Kevin snarls, "we let you into our home, she was only sixteen….." Bill drags him away, and Rosie stands and stares at her lover, lying bleeding in the road. Then she turns and walks back inside with the rest of her family.

John looks up at the Fiz who is standing looking at him. "It wasn't my fault," he whinges, (no, it never is with these people!) "I kept trying to tell her but she wouldn't listen….." Fiz weeps then. "Nobody ever made me as happy as you did." John tries to tell her they'll get married, have kids. "Happy Christmas, love," she says as she walks away. John fumbles and pulls his mobile phone from his pocket.

Back in their living room, the Webster family are trying to make sense of what's happened. Audrey wants to know how Rosie could do it to a sweet, harmless girl like Fiz. "How could I do that to her?" protests Rose, "how could HE do that to him? He's lying there practically half dead!" Sophie asks why Rosie always has to go and mess everything up all the time. Sally says that John will get the sack and Rosie will be chucked out of school. "On what grounds?" Rosie wants to know, "we're adults!" "Adults?" says Bill, "you're a flamin' kid!" Sally demands to know how long this has been going on, but Rosie rushes out of the room.

Ashley and Claire and the boys have gone into the café to see Roy, and Chesney explains the 'murder' game they've been playing. Kirk listens carefully this time and finally seems to understand why Becky has been winking at him.

Kevin is changing his shirt as Sally goes to put his blood stained one in the wash. Just then there's a knock at the door. It's two policemen, they've come to arrest Kevin for assault!

As he's led out to the police car, Gail and Eileen come out of the front door to see what's going on, and Bill offers to drive Sally down to the police station so that she can be there for Kevin.

Jason and Sarah are also outside on the Street, and he tells her he's decided that he will go to Italy with her. She's delighted and they hug!

Michelle, wearing what looks for all the world like a 1960's wedding dress, (long, lacy sleeves and fitted white bodice) is in the back room of the Rovers when Ryan comes in with her present. It's a musical jewellery box, and she gets quite tearful as she opens it. "I love it, thank you," she says.

In the bar, Darryl is trying to chat up new barmaid Lauren, telling her he's fluent in Japanese, a result of watching so many Japanese films.

Jerry is in the pub with Harry and Dan, the bookies, when Darryl drags himself away from Lauren and joins them.

Jamie and Liam come in, and realisation dawns that this time next year they'll both be up to their necks in babies. "Are you scared?" asks Jamie, and Liam admits he's terrified.

Just then Maria and Violet come out from the ladies, and Tony and Carla come in through the front door. They open champagne and toast Michelle and Liam's brother, Paul, and also Dean, Michelle's dead husband.

Back at Roy's Rolls, they're eating their Christmas pudding when Kirk starts to choke on the coin in the pudding. Roy bangs him on the back, and in the midst of all the kerfuffle the phone starts to ring. Becky takes over and performs the Heimlich manoeuvre as Roy then dashes to the phone and Fiz walks in.

Back in the Rovers, Sarah and Jason are talking to Stephen and telling him that they've decided to take him up on his offer.

Liam and Maria are sitting with Carla and Tony when she asks if they ought to be heading off for their dinner booking. She asks what time it's for and he tells her it's for half past eight. She says they've got plenty of time. "Not really," he tells her, "it's in Paris!"

Fiz, Chesney and Kirk are heading back home, with Fiz still wailing about her broken relationship. "We had bookshelves in our bedroom," she weeps, "and at night he used to take a book off the shelf and actually read it!" Kirk opens his front door and they all go inside.

Rosie comes downstairs and finds her mother sitting in the dark. "Where's Dad?" she asks. Sally tells her they've locked him up. "What are you trying to do to us?" Sally asks her daughter, "if your dad goes to prison because you couldn't keep your knickers on you're in for a very bumpy ride," she says. Rosie says it wouldn't be the first, and tells her mother that John didn't take advantage of her. She says, sneeringly, she knows that the only reason her mother is upset is because she's 40 and Rosie's 17 she's had what Sally wanted and she's jealous. Sally slaps her then, hard across the face. Rosie rushes upstairs leaving Sally crying.

In the pub, Christmas songs are blaring out and Vernon tells Liz he'll buy Amy a present to make up for the David Bowie cd. Liz tells him it's a good job she loves him. Over at a table, Gail and Eileen are telling Jason and Sarah about Rosie and John and how Kevin's been arrested.

Roy is alone in the café when the phone rings again. This time he's able to answer it and bid Hayley a happy Christmas at last.

Anne Logan

Bill arrives outside the Webster house as Sally steps outside the front door. He asks if she's heard anything about Kevin, but she hasn't. Sally walks off and Blanche appears. She has a theory that Rosie is pregnant by John, that was why Kevin hit him. Bill assures her she's wrong, and Blanche seems disappointed.

Inside the house, the aforementioned Rosie is on the phone to one of her friends when Sally comes back in. As Rosie hangs up, Sally asks who it was, and Rosie retorts that it's none of her business. Sally tells her that after yesterday every move she makes is her business – thanks to her Kevin is in a police cell. Rosie cheekily replies that her father is in a police cell because he can't control his temper. She can't see that she's done anything wrong in sleeping with her teacher, as she's 17 now. Sally points out that she was 16 when it started. "That's still legal," says Rosie. She then tells her mother that it's only what she would have done if she'd had the chance. She says that John told her about Sally making a pass at him. "What's Dad going to say when he finds out about that?" she sneers. Sally stares at her for a moment and then leaves the room.

Over in the back room of the Rovers, Ryan is reading out the questions from the quiz book he got as a present, when the phone rings. Michelle picks it up, but the caller hangs up. It rings again and this time Ryan picks it up. It turns out to be Andy, calling Steve from Spain to say that he can't make the wedding, he's broken his leg.

Rosie goes to find her mother, who's washing up. "You've gone quiet," she says. Sally replies that she's not going to get drawn into Rosie's game playing. Rosie says Sally has no right to get on her high horse about her, when she would have done the exact same thing. She walks off, but Sally follows her, telling her that she is the one who had the affair and she's got it all out of proportion. Rosie very nastily repeats that they'll see what Kevin thinks about it all, when she tells him. Sally tells her if she wants to make things worse, to go ahead. Rosie reminds her mother that she kept quiet about Ian Davenport. Sally shouts at her then, saying that she did nothing wrong with John and she should think very carefully before she tells tales, if she wants someone on her side when her father gets home. Just then the phone rings, it's Kevin, they're letting him out on bail, and she tells Rosie that the sooner they all get back to normal, the better. "Think about it," she says.

Sarah is counting the days to their departure. She tells Jason that Stephen is coming round to say goodbye to the family, they can make their announcement then, and David will be humiliated in front of everyone. Jason tells her to go easy on him. Just then Gail and David come in. "What are you two plotting?" asks Gail, with a smile. "Nothing!" replies Sarah. "Don't worry," says David, "it can't be any worse than what she has done."

In the pub, Liz is breaking the news about Andy to Vernon, who takes it badly. She then turns to Steve and asks what he's wearing to the wedding and suggests he goes to the sales and buys some new shoes. Just then Lauren comes in to see if there's any more bar work going. Liz asks when she can start.

Fiz is over at the café with Kirk and Chesney. Becky, trying to be cheerful, tells her that a boyfriend of hers once got done for stealing women's underwear from clothes lines. "So I know what it's like to find you're going out with a perv," she says. Roy puts a bacon roll in front of her, "Comfort food," he says. As she tucks in, Blanche comes in and says that, with a mouthful of bacon, Fiz hardly seems to be beside herself with grief. She hopes in that case, that Fiz might now be over the worst and ready to dish the dirt.

Steve meets his dad outside in the Street. Jim says he'll go shopping with him.

Over at the Platts', they're waiting for Stephen to come and say goodbye. David mutters that if it wasn't for Sarah he would have to say goodbye to Stephen, he'd be leaving with him. Sarah then decides to break the news that she and Jason are going to Milan. Stephen has offered her the job. Gail is astounded. "So you're just up and leaving?" Sarah starts to say how they just decided yesterday and they've now booked their flights. "Whoah…whoah!" says David, looking horrified. "You're going to Milan instead of me?" Sarah smiles smugly. "Yes!" she says, "next Sunday and we just can't wait!"

Eileen is chatting to Lauren about her job at the Rovers, when Jason comes in and asks his mother to come over to the Platt's house right now. Eileen is reluctant to go over there again so in the end Jason tells her that they're going to Milan. "You what?" says Eileen.

Back in the Platt household, David is angrily telling Sarah that she planned it all. Just then Audrey, Bill and Stephen arrive and Gail tells them that she's just been told that it's Sarah and Jason who are going to Milan. David reckons that Sarah would do anything she could to stitch him up. Stephen tells him that's not true, Sarah has been very concerned about him. Audrey wants to know why Stephen never said anything to them about this, and he explains that Sarah said she needed time to think. David says she just wanted to make it look like she was thinking. Sarah says she had to consider Bethany and Jason. She turns to her mother and says she's sorry if it's come as a shock but it's too good an opportunity to turn down. David rushes out of the door, meeting Jason and Eileen on their way in. "You were supposed to be looking out for me," he says to Jason, "not looking for the first opportunity to screw me over!" Eileen turns to her son. "Why didn't you get me here any earlier?" she says.

Ryan and his friend are watching football on tv. His friend asks Ryan if the team he supports got really bad, would he change and support someone else. Ryan tells him he couldn't, it's in his blood. He's been a City supporter since birth, you can't change something like that. Michelle sits and listens to it all.

The family are out on the pavement, waving Stephen off. "See you on Sunday," he says to Sarah and Jason. As he drives off they decide to go over to the pub for a drink.

Violet and Jamie go into the pub. Violet seems less than delighted to see her sister working behind the bar.

Audrey is accosted by Blanche, who is still desperate for gossip about Sarah and John. Audrey refuses to be drawn on the matter, much to Blanche's annoyance.

Steve and Jim are back from the sales, and Steve shows his new shoes to Liz. Jim asks Vernon if his wedding invite is in the post, but doesn't get an answer.

Gail and co. are sitting at a table, Eileen wonders what Jason will do for work, but he says he'll do whatever he can. Bill says he'll soon pick up the language when he's working. "So you think it's a good idea?" queries Gail. Bill says you never know until you try. Audrey thinks it's worth a gamble, they are going to work for Stephen, it's a reputable company. Sarah says they'll have a nice apartment to stay in and Bethany is going to go to an English speaking school.

Steve and Michelle are in the back room. He tells her that there's nothing she can do until she's had the DNA test. She says she knows, but it doesn't stop her worrying. He hugs her and she confesses that she doesn't know what Ryan will do if he finds out she's not his mum. Steve assures her that he'll always love her, no matter what happens.

Eileen tells Jason that her head's reeling with it all. "Sarah's behind all this, be honest," she says. He admits that's true, but says he wouldn't be going if he didn't want to.

Vernon is worried that Jim is becoming a bit of a fixture, as he sees Steve and Jim chatting at the bar.

Jim is pondering on what Liz sees in Vernon. Steve tells him he's a forgiving person, when Liz had a fling with a drayman a short while ago Vernon took her back in the end. "Well, well," says Jim, thoughtfully, "you learn something new every day!"

Outside, a bruised and battered John is slowly and painfully loading his belongings into his car. Rosie comes along. "Hiya," she says, "how are you?" John asks how it looks. "Your face looks terrible!" she says. He tells her he's got a broken cheekbone, he's only just got out of hospital, and he's going to stay with a mate. "See you around then," she says.

Gail and Sarah come along. Gail tells Sarah she's slowly coming to terms with it, and Sarah says they can always come home if it doesn't work out, they're only going to be a couple of hours away on a cheap flight. David is sitting on the wall as they pass by. "Good aren't they, those cheap flight, a real steal!" he says.

A car comes up the road, it's Kevin coming back. When he sees Rosie talking to John he's furious, but Sally warns him to stay away. "If you lay one finger on him you're back inside," she says.

"You're not upset though, are you?" says Rosie, cheerfully, to John. "Oh no," he replies, sarcastically. "I've only been half killed by your dad, dumped by Fiz and I stand to lose my job, what's to get upset about?"

As he goes to get in his car, Fiz comes round the corner and stops. The three of them all look at each other for a few moments and then John gets in his car and drives away. Rosie walks over to her parents. "Is that him gone?" asks Kevin, "good riddance." Rosie says she thinks he might be right. Kevin goes in and Rosie and Sally look at each other meaningfully for a few moments. Then Rosie smiles at her mum and Sally smiles back. They go inside.

David comes downstairs to find Sarah sitting in the living room. "I hope you're happy now," he says. She tells him she is happy and in four days she'll be gone for ever. "Yeah, with my job!" he retorts. He says he'll get her back for it. "Why should you have it?" she says, and reminds him that he nearly killed her daughter and wrecked her wedding day. "But I didn't do what he thinks I did," he says, "it was you!" Sarah puts her face close to him and smiles. "Which makes it all the sweeter," she says.

Anne Logan.

Now that the Christmas leftovers have just about gone, the ba's gone up (www.bagame.com) and it's Friday, we're ready for another episode...

You know, David and Sarah might annoy us with their sniping, but that's pretty much what happens in most families I know with teenagers. They're carrying on sniping at each other, much to Jason's annoyance, but very realistically.

Kevin's all suited and booted, ready to go off and face the court on his assault charge. Sally's sure he'll be fine, but Kevin seems sure he'll go to prison for laying into John. As they're stepping out of the door, they meet Rosie coming in. She says she hopes it goes OK, but Kevin snaps at her, telling her she should have thought about that before. She asks if he was thinking when he was battering John. "Thinking?" Kevin almost shouts. "Well, maybe that's what dads do when they find out their daughter is having it away with their schoolteacher. Rosie seems quite startled by this (spoilt little cow, if you ask me!), but Kev continues: "Or maybe I was thinking about the daughter we thought we brought up, instead of the lying little scrubber we've ended up with!" Rosie is horrified that her dad could say such a thing. Sally's horrified that he's saying it in the street. She hurries Rosie inside. "Feel better now?" she asks Kevin.

Michelle is depressed at the thought of the coming DNA test. She seems quite threatened by it. Steve offers to find one of Amy's doting grandparents so he can take Michelle for an Italian meal.

After their Christmas Day in the cafe, Kirk now seems besotted by Becky. He arrives with Chesney and claims Ches has been nagging him for a cake. Becky tells Kirk that cakes are naughty but nice, and the two boys sit down, with Kirk warning Chesney not to say anything embarrassing. The writers' recent attempts to sneak in some smutty innuendo come to the fore as Kirk tells Becky he should thank her for saving his life on Christmas Day. Becky says you can't wrestle with a fella and not bond in some way. She offers him a "sinful and sticky" doughnut. Chesney asks: "I don't suppose there's a cream horn going anywhere, is there?"

Maria goes with Fizz back to the flat. They're trying to round up anything that John's left behind. Fizz says that if she finds anything, she can make herself feel better by burning it or chucking it out of the window. She says she has to face up to the flat some time, but we can see she's hurting. She suddenly breaks down and tells Maria: "I was going to have babies with him and we were going to live in a big house and maybe even have a caravan in Anglesey! And I'd be Mrs Stape and I'd help him make costumes for his stupid school plays! What am I supposed to do?" Maria offers the tried and tested remedy for heartbreak. She and Fizz are going to go to the Rovers and slag off men all night.

If we ever needed more proof that Sarah Louise was indeed the granddaughter of Ivy Tilsley, we get it right here. Gail tells Sarah that if she has a farewell in the pub, people will think she's not coming back. Gail says that if things work out in Italy, they won't be. Gail asks if Jason thinks that. "Mum, Jason thinks what I think," says Ivy Junior! Gail gets Ivy's ghost out of the way by sending Sarah out to fetch in the washing. As she takes something off the line, Sarah starts as she finds David standing behind it. "You nearly gave me a heart attack!" she says, accusingly. "Maybe next time, eh?" he says. He tells her this isn't over yet. She calls him a loser and tells him to get over it.

Vernon serves an orange juice to Jim, telling him he himself is too weak willed to be able to stick to non-alcoholic stuff. Liz fetches Vernon to deal with a delivery, but Jim says he'll see to it if Vernon wants to carry on serving. Vernon takes offence at this, telling Jim that he and Liz aren't doing a bad job of running the pub. "We don't need any help, other than what we've already got."

Michelle, meanwhile, is still moping about the DNA test, though now she's doing it in the Italian restaurant.

Sarah and Jason arrive in the pub for their send-off. I have no idea where Corrie gets all the big banners they put up every time someone has something to celebrate. Either someone psychic is planning well ahead with their local banner printers, or there are no bedsheets at all left upstairs. Tyrone calls out to wish them luck, then turns immediately to Dev and says: "A tenner says they don't last two weeks." Dev tells him he should have faith in the youth of today . . . and ups the bet to twenty that they don't last a month." Kevin and Sally arrive back from the court. Kev's been remanded for two weeks for sentencing.

In the cafe, Kirk and Ches are finally leaving after more than two hours. Kirk suggests he might even call in again tomorrow. Becky seems quite ignorant about Kirk's feelings for her, so Chesney whispers that he thinks Kirk fancies her. Becky, naughtily, tells Kirk he can come and check out her buns any time he likes. "I'm in there!" Kirk tells Ches.

Back in the Rovers, Gail must have had a bit much to drink as she takes Jason aside to tell him what a smashing son-in-law he is. Jim eavesdrops as Vernon and Liz discuss the fact that they've got no-one to look after Amy on Sunday because Steve's working, Liz has the pub and Vernon's got his best man coming round. And Michelle's head is all over the place, Liz says. Jim tells Liz he might be in a position to do her a favour. As Sarah and Jason leave, everyone in the Rovers raises their glasses to them. Liz and Jim tell Vernon he needn't worry about cancelling best-man-Bob's visit because Jim can look after Amy. Vernon doesn't look as if he thinks this is a good solution.

Michelle is still moping. I don't mind the writers making the characters mope, but why does it have to be so repetitive? Steve tries to reassure Michelle that nothing has happened except for her receiving a letter saying the DNA test is going ahead. But Michelle thinks it's the DNA equivalent of "no smoke without fire". "Why would anyone make this up?" she asks Steve. She starts to cry as she tells him the letter is just a warning of what's ahead. "Oh, Steve, what are we doing to do?"

Back in the pub, Bill and Tyrone try to cheer up Kevin, who thinks that he could soon be banged up in Strangeways. Tyrone thinks that if they locked up everyone who chinned someone in Manchester, they'd have to use Old Trafford as a prison. He reckons Kevin should have hit John a bit harder! Fizz and Maria walk in and Sally calls them over for a drink, telling Fizz it's time they put all this "John business" behind them. Fizz says she already has. Maria, more indignant than Fizz, hisses "Do they think it's that easy for you?" Fizz says: "It won't be that easy for them, either, will it? Not with that little tart still living with them. I expect she'll be at it again before long." Sally and Kevin listen to this with glum faces.

Outside, David meets Jason, who warns him not to start again. But David, chummily, says they're both in the same boat – "stitched up by our Sarah." He paints Jason a picture of life in Italy – Sarah working and learning Italian, and Jason sitting at home babysitting Bethany. Jason protests that it's not going to be like that, but David tells him you can't believe anything Sarah says. She lied about her brother so she could get the trip. "She's as devious as they come and you can't see it." He says Sarah smiles and looks innocent and everyone believes her. He feels sorry for Jason, because one day Sarah will screw him the way she's screwed David. "The shame is, you're too thick to see it coming." Jason reaches for David who says he's just saying it because he likes Jason. "But what do I know? Have a safe trip then, eh?"

The End
Margaret Carr

My last update for 2007, sorry we have got a little out of order. Trying to catch up and the extra episodes have caused slight confusion.

Anyway this episode was written by Joe Turner and directed by Pip Short.

We open with David coming downstairs and accusing Sarah of departing without saying good bye. He wants an apology for fitting him up - she points out that for once he got what he deserved for all of his actions. David suggests she checks her bags before jetting off. She starts unpacking. Having created a mess she guesses that David is pulling her leg. They bicker - he reckons she will not last two minutes in Milan and she cannot understand why he is still carrying on like this. Why can't he be a normal human being? Sarah explains that she is happier seeing him suffer than going off to Milan.

Jelly Roll Morton's turkey is still frozen - and why does he want a turkey ask the kids - apparently they are going to have another Christmas now the family is re-assembled.

Vernon leaves the Rovers and finds Jim the other side of the Street. Jim wishes Vernon all the best and they shake hands. Jim assures Vernon that he has no intention of stealing his bride to be. Vernon thinks that Jim believes he is a coward and he admits he probably is - but he loves Liz. Jim turns round as Vernon departs and assures him that the marriage will happen and that they will live happily ever after in a rather sarcastic tone.

Gail asks if they have checked their passports - they have. Jason points out that they will need electrical adaptors - David hopes he has not packed his tools - he won't get a cordless drill or power saw through customs. All their savings have been converted into Euros and Jason assures Gail that he will get a job asap and they will not depend on Steven's generosity. Eileen arrives. She has a power adaptor and hands it over. Jason makes a pot of tea and then cuddles Beth. Eileen says they can always come back if it does not work out. David tells Jason that he is not a druggy.

The Websters are eating breakfast. Rosie is not being spoken to. Kev has to go to the garage and do some paperwork so everything is in order before his court appearance. Rosie points out that she did not ask her father to get involved. No-one talks to Rosie. Sophie storms off.

Back at Plattland Gail is hanging out washing (on a SUNDAY! - my previous set of in-laws used to get so upset about their neighbours hanging out washing on Sundays). Sarah tells Gail to keep a close eye on David who is in the shed next door, and probably hears his ears burning. David wishes Sarah a desperately unpleasant life. Gail hugs her daughter.

Jim is in the back room of the Rovers preparing little cake boxes ready to send out portions - she needs at least 28. Michelle rings the bakers to check the size of the cake. Liz is getting nervous.

Huge hugs and kisses all round as Jason, Sarah and Beth load up a StreetCars and depart to catch a train. David's absence is noted. He comes out of Roy's Rolls and Sarah waves at him ironically.

The Rovers is being decorated in readiness for the wedding - turns out it is a three tier cake. Everyone departs on jobs leaving Liz and Jim alone. She wants a cigarette - but has given up. Jim reminds her of 1974 when she tried to give up before. Dreary arrives with cups of tea all round.

At Manchester Picadilly Station Sarah and Jason are sitting waiting for the train. Jason wants to know why Sarah was so pleased to see David as they left. Sarah says he is a total nightmare. Sarah wanted to rub his nose in what was supposed to be David's ticket out of here - she took it off of him. She tells Jason that she planted the drugs on David, Jason thinks he is being wound up, but she shakes her head. She got the drugs for £30 from a guy in the restaurant. And David knows that she has one - that was important.

Jim reads Amy a story and disappears. Dreary wants to know what is going on - Liz looked at Jim. Have you got feelings for Jim asks Dreary. Liz says she is marrying Vernon - he is the future. Dreary does not look convinced.

Jason, Sarah and Beth are on a "walky walk walk" as they are called in our house - you know a flat escalator like a conveyor belt - and Jason realises that this trip is not about them - but is rather more about Sarah getting one over on David. Sarah says it is both - a fantastic opportunity. Jason and Sarah argue - Jason still thinks that David tries to commit suicide and Sarah knows he did not - because she knows him. Sarah tells him just to get on the train please. Sarah thought Jason would be pleased and anyway why is on David's side? Jason denies being on any side (bad move Jason) as Sarah immediately points out that as she is his wife he should be on her side. Sarah wants to talk about it on the train, but Jason says no. Jason wants to know why he is being rushed. Jason wants to sort it out. Sarah wants Jason to get on the train.

The Morton family are having their turkey (at the previous do with Mother they had chicken nuggets and chips).

Sarah pleads with Jason to get on the train. Why does he want to spoil it. This is their dream to get away says Sarah, no says Jason - just your dream. Sarah responds - what does he want - he wants to talk - she will only do it on the train. Sarah and Beth walk off. Jason watches them.

Rosie walks up to Fiz who is cleaning her moped. She says sorry - she never meant anyone to get hurt and she is really sorry if she was hurt. Rosie says that's it and turns to go. Fiz calls her back and Rosie turns round and says that if Fiz is going to have a go could she keep it short because she has already had it from Mum and Dad. Fiz asks why she did it? Rosie says ask John. It was just a bit of a laugh. Fiz asks if she loved him. Rosie says No. Fiz responds "I did". Rosie "Yeah well?". Fiz loved and thought they were going to have a life together - a future. Rosie says Fiz should thank her for showing what he was really like. Fiz answers by saying she has been made to look stupid - a total fool. Kev spots the altercation and calls Rosie away before it gets into a fight.

At Plattland David sticks his around the door and tells the ironing Gail to prepare herself for a surprise. Jason strolls in. What is going on asks Gail. Sarah should be at the airport by now - she planted the drugs on David and conned Steven into the job and then conned Jason into going with her. He is bad tempered and departs. David is quick to capitalise on the situation. "Bob the Builder may be a little bit dim but at last he grasps the truth". David says that Gail can apologise to him anytime she likes. Gail realises that Sarah and Beth have gone to Milan. David gets his apology - Sarah has shafted him and lied to Gail and she is leaving the country - so it just the two of them. David rubs Gail's nose in it.

In the backroom of the Rovers Jim is reading a paper and Liz asks for some help in the bar. In getting up Jim puts his hand on Liz's rear as she bends over and they end up face to face. Jim says that he forgot - he just remembered ... he lets her go, then tries to kiss her. Liz returns to the bar feeling even more uncertain. Vernon returns and she does not have a chance to tell Dreary what has happened. Jim leaves. Vernon says the place is looking great.

At the airport there is a final call for the Grimshaws and Bethany Platt. Sarah and Beth pick up their bags and head through the departure lounge as there is no sign of Jason.

And Sarah leaves us. She has had some great storylines over her years with us - Bethany, the stalker, the Hillman times and so on. As with Leanne let us hope that she returns to us.

K Richard W

Grimshaw's; Eileen tells Jason this is just like all the other arguments he'd had with Sarah but she got on the train and he stayed on the platform and if he got on they would of made up by now. Jason says it is different as she lied and looks like she did from the day they got married. Eileen tells him to call her but Jason says no. Eileen asks what if she is thinking the same. Jason says he has pride.

Platt's; Gail asks David if he is going to work. He says no as he has a meeting with a drug dealer at 2 pm in Roy's Cafe. Gail says she said sorry. David tells her there is always Weatherfield tomorrow and the day after that and till next year. She asks again if he is going to work. He says Liz's wedding so no and to ask Audrey if she does not believe him. Gail says she does but is told it's a bit late. David then takes a bit of her toast and walks away.

Barlow's; Maria is doing Liz's hair and make up. Liz starts to cry and says sorry as she is messing up all her hard work. Deirdre asks if she is done. Maria says she will pick her stuff up tomorrow and goes. Deirdre says weddings are like funerals, they drive you through the mills. Liz tells her that she hears a voice saying its not right marrying Vernon and keeps seeing Jim.

Rovers; Vernon is telling someone that he wants 3 times a lady. Steve and Dev start singing the song. Vernon comes over and says Liz is everything to him and says they will understand when they hear his speech. Dev tells him to give a sneak peek. He says this is an Eskimo song. Dev jokes asking if he will do it in a husky voice.

Barlow's; Deirdre says she knew it when she saw her and Jim together. Liz says she does not want him but wants what she has with him, passion that she and Vernon will never have. Liz says she had a fling with Derek, as there was no passion. Deirdre asks why she said she would marry Vernon but she does not know why. Deirdre says Vernon will never let her down. Liz says he is a good man but wants to be on the edge. Deirdre asks what she is going to do but Liz does not know.

Cafe; Becky asks what Jason is doing here. He says he wants a bacon roll. Becky says he should be in Italy. Jason says he had words with Sarah and she's in Italy. He tells her just to grill the bacon. Kevin tells Sally he could go to prison but might not come to that. Sally says she is scared. Kevin says they have to keep their fingers crossed. Sally says they should have to do that.

Barlow's; Deirdre says she needs to make a decision. Liz says, then it's called off. She asks if she can go to the registry office and tell everyone. Deirdre says she is making the right choice and is better an awkward two weeks than years of unhappiness. They hug and Liz goes out the back. Outside Liz walks to the back of the Rovers where Jim is waiting for her. He says he was counting on her having a fag. Liz says she is trying to stop. Jim says they where good together and can be again. Liz says no. Jim says she can't really love Vernon and thinks it too late to cancel the wedding. Liz says he is so wrong. Jim says for her to say she loves Vernon and he will leave her alone.

Webster's; Rosie comes down asking her mum for some piece of clothing she wants. Sally asks where she is going. Roise says the wedding. Sally says Fiz will be there and Fiz has done nothing wrong. Rosie asks if they are ashamed of her. Sally asks if she really wants her to answer that. Roise then says she was thinking of going back to Oakhill. Sally says that ship has sailed and they have broken their back on her education and look where it's got them. Rosie says anything she says is wrong and says, maybe she should not say anything at all.

Rover's; Dev comes in saying the ride is here. Vernon asks his friend if he has the rings. He says yes. Dev asks if they are ready to go. Vernon says yes then no as he needs to go get something. He tells them to go on and he will be in just a second. As Vernon goes to the back he hears Liz and Jim from outside.

Outside the back of the Rovers Jim tells Liz he loves her and she will always be his wife. Just then he kisses her. Vernon comes out and shouts no and runs for Jim who punches then punches him to the ground. Liz shouts no. Jim then shouts asking if she really wants to marry a snivelling apology of a man like that. He shouts no way and tells her she is his.

Rovers bar; Steve, Dev and Vernon's friend come in asking where he is. Dev says he has done a runner. Steve says if only. Just then they hear shouting. All of them go through the bar running to the back.

Outside the back of the Rover's Jim shouts at Vernon saying he is not listening and punches him again saying he will not let him marry Liz. Vernon shouts saying Liz loves him. The rest of them arrive and Jim hits Vernon's friend. Steve goes for Jim and puts him against the wall and shouts saying he couldn't leave them alone. Jim says he is doing this for him and asks if he really wants his mum marrying a man like that. Steve tells him it's her life and he has listened to his lies for long enough. The rest of them take Vernon inside as Liz tells Jim to go. Steve also tells him to go.

Outside Maria says she hopes everything is ok. Liam tells her brides always cry before weddings. Maria looking in the car window reflection says she is bulging out. Liam says she is fine. She says he won't be saying that when she is fat. He tells her there will just be more of her to love, then tells her to get in the car.

Rover's Vernon says they say its bad luck to see the bride on the morning of the wedding and they were not kidding. Steve comes in saying Bob, Vernon's friend is at the medial centre. Liz tells Vernon he should go as well. He says they are getting married 30 mins or all this has been for nout. Steve says the police are going to want to talk to him. Vernon says he is not going to report this as Jim will go to prison and looking at Steve says he's your dad. Vernon says to Steve, if he didn't step in. He takes out a broach and gives it to Liz saying it was going to be a wedding present. Liz tells him to rest as she and Steve leave them room. She then tells Steve to get a hold of Deirdre and get everyone back as the wedding is back on. She tells him she will explain later and tells him to hurry. Liz then goes back to Vernon.

Episode rating 8/10
This report is Copyright M@nda
Amanda Souter Outside the Rovers, after copping a few punches from Jim McDonald, Vernon is determined to get to that registry office and marry Lucky Liz. Dev, who steps into the best man's spot since the old best man is out of action, helps Vernon into the car, dispatching Amber to fetch some tissues to mop up the blood while Liz asks Vernon if he's sure he's going to be all right. Liz tries to hurry off Steve who is confused and asks why Liz told Dierdre to cancel the wedding. Liz tells him she'll explain later but she needs him to make sure the guests stay where they are. When Dev asks the driver to make it a quick drive to the registry office Liz tells him she doesn't want to be speeding and asks the driver to take it nice and steady. Amber brings Liz her bouquet before Liz finally gets in the car on the way to her wedding.

Down at the registry office, Lloyd is waiting patiently outside, next to his taxi. Inside, Dierdre is preparing to tell all the guests the bad news. Ken goes out to tell Lloyd that the wedding is cancelled and Lloyd heads back to work, "Poor Vernon," he says.

In the limousine the driver is driving too fast for Liz to be able to put her make-up back on. She asks the driver to slow down.

In the registry office Blanche starts singing, "Why are we waiting....?" She reckons she could have had her hip done, including the flight to Poland in the time they've all been waiting for the bride and groom. Rita hopes there hasn't been a car accident but ever sensible Emily says she sure there's a perfectly good reason for the lateness. Dierdre marches to the front of the room and breaks the news that the wedding is cancelled without giving any reasons. Gail thinks it sounds like somebody's got cold feet. Kevin wonders about the reception. Emily gets up to leave. Rita remarks that Betty won't be pleased, she's got 240 vol au vents waiting at the Rovers.

As all the guests leave the registry office, a taxi speeds into view.There's much conjecture amongst the guests about why the wedding has been cancelled. Steve hops out of his car and tells everyone to get back in and sit down because the wedding is back on. He tries to herd the confused masses back into the building. "Don't jostle me!" says Norris before he heads back to his seat. Dierdre tries to make sense of what has happened and then realises she needs to find the registrar. Eileen asks Steve what's going on. "Eileen," he says, "I can honestly say, I haven't gorra clue!"

The limousine pulls up outside the registry office. Dev gets out and Liz asks him to check that the guests are ready for him. Inside, Steve has told Dierdre what happened at home with Jim and points out that Dev has blood on his shirt when she sees him. Vernon and Liz head inside to gasps and whispers when their guests see the state of Vernon. Audrey asks Dev what happened to Vernon to which Dev answered, "Jim wasn't as cool about the wedding as he made out." The story has spread around the guests like wildfire by the time Liz and Vernon make it to the top of the aisle. At the front of the room, Vernon whispers to Liz that he loves her. "Yeah, me an' all!" answers Liz.The registrar welcomes everyone to the marriage of Vernon and Elizabeth.

In Roy's Cafe, Becky is asking Jason what she can do to put a smile on his miserable face. Jason thinks there's nothing she can do. Bill comes and sits down at the table with him. He tells Jason when their teas are drunk, Jason can go back to work for him. Jason is chuffed to bits that he can have his job back.

At the wedding, the registrar pronounce the bride and groom "Man and Wife" (Shouldn't it be "husband and wife"? Has feminism achieved nothing?) Vernon is delighted.

The limousine arrives back at the Rovers and Liz is carried over the threshhold to their reception to much clapping and cheering. Vernon calls Steve "son" and gives him a hug. Steve thanks Vernon for not shopping his dad to the cops. Liz thanks Betty for all her hard work. Audrey offers the married couple congratulations. When Michelle remarks to Steve that it was a heck of a wedding, Steve replies, "That's one way of putting it!" Emily looks around at the pub's wedding finery and says, "It certainly looks... decorated..." You can tell she, Norris and Rita aren't too impressed with it all. Kevin remarks to Vernon that he can't believe Jim did that to him. Vernon apologises for the delay and wonders if Sally and Kevin had thought they'd "bottled it". Steve asks to have a word with Liz. Liz, knowing what Steve is going to ask her about tells Steve to go and give Ken a glass of champagne and avoids him.

Back at Eileen's Jason is watching an old black & white tv show. Eileen pops in to see how he is. She tells him she can't believe it's New Year's Eve and he's watching a Western. Nothing can bring Jason out of his gloom though and he refuses to come over to the Rovers for a drink with his friends. She delivers an ultimatum, snuggling up to him and threatening to annoy him all night unless he puts his new shirt on and comes out for the night. Jason gives in and goes upstairs to put his new shirt on.

Back in the pub, everyone is having a lovely time. Carla comes in to the pub, gives Michelle a cuddle, Liam a slightly-too-intimate kiss and ignores Maria until Maria points herself out to Carla. Uh oh, Maria's face starts to trip her. While Liam thought that Tony Gordon would have whisked her off somewhere fabulous for NYE, poor old Tony's stuck in Dusseldorf airport for the night. Carla heads off to the ladies' and Maria tells Liam that she knows Carla is his sister-in-law but she can't stand her. She tells Lima that Carla is all over him and points out the slightly-too-intimate kiss when he shrugs it off. He says she's just being friendly and in fact, it's the friendliest she's been all year. Maria thinks she's just a bit too friendly. Liam shuts Maria up with a kiss.

Eileen has managed to get Jason to the pub where he turns his nose up at the champagne and gets himself a pint leaving Eileen standing talking to herself. Ken is analysing what happened earlier in the day. He says that at least Vernon's injuries cover up the real reason why Liz cancelled the wedding in the first place but wonders why Liz went through with it. Dierdre heads off to find Liz who has gone to get changed. "She's got more outfits than Primark" quips Vernon. He thanks Dierdre for everything she did for them in the day.

Dierdre finds Liz in the living room putting on more make-up. She asks Liz what happened, why Liz decided to go through with the wedding after all. Just as Liz is telling Dierdre about Vernon being all bloody and bruised after his pasting from Jim and how he looked at her with puppy dog eyes and she couldn't break his heart, Steve busts in, demanding to know why Liz cancelled the wedding. Liz tells him she "got cold feet for about two seconds" then his dad kicked off but it all turned out all right in the end. She tells him to stop worrying, she's married and she's happy. She gives him a hug and thanks him for everything he does for her. Dierdre, Steve and Liz all head back out to the bar.

Carla tells Liam that Tony is thinking of taking them to the Maldives over Easter. Liam looks bored as she goes on about how she's never met anyone as well travelled as Tony. Liam points out that he's well travelled but he can't get a flight home on NYE. Carla goes on to say that at least Tony knows how to woo a girl. Not just a pie and pint in the Rovers and a dvd on the couch on a Saturday. "Oh, did I just sum up your love life?" she asks Liam. Liam sums up Carla's, "Smarmy bloke wafts a couple of airline tickets under your nose and you're sold!" Carla tells Liam that Tony is more of a man than Liam will ever be. Liam points out, quite rightly, that not all woman need to be impressed by money. Maria drags Liam away while Carla bitterly exclaims, to Maria's disgust, "I don't know you manage to keep it up, you pair." Exit Maria and Liam.

Vernon is making a speech. It's not a very good one and he starts to cry when he tells Liz he loves her. Liz takes the mic and explains, by way of apology, "He's bladdered!" Liz tells everyone she knows she's made the right decision and she's married the right man. She knows that Vernon really cares for her and he makes her feel happy and loved and she's proud to be called Mrs Vernon Tomlin.

Fizz is getting very drunk at the bar. Just as Sally tries to say something to her, she falls over sideways.....

Steve, Darrel and Becky are out the back smoking. Steve says he's giving the smokes up at the New Year. Again. Becky's not giving up, she loves smoking. Steve says something about how important it is to bring in the New Year with those closest to you. He looks at his company and decides he'd better get back to the party.

The Rovers is rocking with a party. Liz counts down the New Year. Steve assures Michelle that whatever happens with Ryan, they'll get through it together. As Big Ben strikes 12, Steve snogs Michelle, there're kisses all round and Fizz shouts, "Come 'ere, Alahan!" and grabs Dev for a kiss. Then they all sing Auld Lang Syne. Out in the back, Jason comes across a very drunk Becky who grabs Jason for a snog. Outside the Rovers, Maria and Liam watch the fireworks and Liam asks Maria if she wants to go for a holiday. They agree to go somewhere romantic, just the "three" of them.

Stella McLoughlin

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