The atmosphere in Tyrone and Molly's house is decidedly frosty and Ty asks her if she's in a mood because he didn't get to the race. She tells him she isn't in a mood, but he pushes the point, saying that Jack will back him up, by the time he got back it was too late. "So you didn't make it, it's fine," she says. He complains that she's hardly spoken to him since, but she tells him to shut up about it. Sitting at the table, Jack doesn't look happy. Molly slams off to work, and Ty turns to Jack. "She says she's not mad at me and then she acts like that!" Jack says that everyone gets days like that sometimes. "I just want to know why," says Tyrone.

AT Emily's house, he says he's going to go and give Rita a hand. Emily wonders whether she will actually want one, they might all need some time alone to get over what's happened. Norris snaps that he's the one with more to get over. "Whose brother was it who died, exactly? Was it Rita's? Was it yours?" He then says that if he chooses to go into work he should be allowed to do so, unless Rita won't be able to bear having him near her. "Maybe she won't, we'll find out shall we?"

It's Kevin's birthday, and has he limps downstairs, stiff from the run yesterday, Sally reminds him that he's not as young as he used to be, in fact he's a year older today. He says he doesn't need reminding, and goes off to work. Outside he sees Tyrone who wants to know what happened at the run and he asks whether Molly was upset because he wasn't there. He asks what Molly said, but Kevin just tells him they didn't talk much they were too knackered. Tyrone says he wouldn't mind if Molly would just come out with it and say he let her down, but he's in the doghouse and she won't tell him how he got there.

In the Kabin, Rita tells Norris he didn't need to come in, but he asks what he's supposed to be doing. "Oh no, I'm supposed to be in mourning aren't I?" he says, adding that he's not going to make a public show of it. She says she expected as much and he says that it doesn't mean he's not feeling anything and that he hasn't thought about everything that's happened, but he intends to keep his thoughts and feelings to himself. Then he asks how she is this morning but she retorts that she's keeping her thoughts and feelings to herself!

Ashley and Claire take Joshua to find Janice. He thanks her for looking after him when he got the bee sting and gives her a box of chocolates. Ashley tells her they're from all of them, and they don't know what would have happened if she hadn't been there. Janice gets really embarrassed and blushes.

Jack tells Connie that he feels that Tyrone and Molly can't have a good row with him being in the house. Molly gets moody and he's sat there like piggy in the middle, stopping them from having it out. He feels like he's in the way, they need to be on their own.

Norris tells Rita that he knows that she and Emily think that he killed Ramsay. Him dying on the plane - Norris made it happen! She tells him she's not thinking any such thing, but he says he knows that she is. "I'm not responsible for my brother's death and I'm not staying here to be treated as if I am!" he cries, and storms out of the shop.

Kevin sees Molly outside the corner shop and tells her how Tyrone thinks she's in a mood with him since the race. He then asks if she regrets anything and she smiles and says she doesn't. "Do you?" she asks. "Never!" he replies, so they agree that they might do it again sometime. Just then Tyrone comes over and they hastily start talking about the race, then Molly says she must be getting back to the shop. Ty then asks Kevin if she said anything to him about him not turning up yesterday, but Kevin tells him that she never mentioned it. Tyrone then moans about Molly rushing back to the shop as soon as he turns up. Kevin says that maybe she had a customer. "What, that she'd forgotten all about till I turned up?" sniffs Tyrone. Kevin tells him not to involve him in his marriage. "Sorry," says Tyrone, "I know it's nothing to do with you."

Claire is ready to take the children over to her mother's. Ashley remarks on how different things might have been if it wasn't for Janice. He says they never know what's coming so they should be careful what they do. She asks what he's talking about and he tells her they never know what's coming in the future. He then suggests they have a talk later.

Norris has taken himself off to the graveyard and sits looking at his mother's grave, on which are placed two bunches of flowers, one from himself and the other from Ramsay.

Molly is home early, telling Jack that Dev owed her a few hours. Just then her mobile rings and she goes out of the room to take the call. It's Kevin, wondering when they can get together again. They decide they'll have to go in for another run. Kevin is just finishing his call when Tyrone walks into the office, so he goes outside and tells her he'll look online to sort something out. She warns him only to phone her when he knows Tyrone isn't with her and he tells her to remember to delete his number from her phone after he's called. He tells her he doesn't think Sally is interested but Tyrone is still worrying about what he's done and how he can put it right.

Emily and Rita are discussing Norris and how he thinks they are blaming him for Ramsay's death. Rita wonders if he's not totally wrong. She says she knows Ramsay died on a plane, so it would be ridiculous, he would have to have supernatural powers, but maybe they have come across as counsel for the prosecution between them. Just then Norris walks in and Rita tells him they were thinking of going for a drink tonight and it would be nice if he would come along. He sniffs that he's surprised they would want his company. "Don't push it," says Rita, "I'm not going down on one knee." Norris looks thoughtful and then says, "Hmm, yes, I suppose. All right then." He goes off upstairs and Rita looks at Emily and remarks that it's not easy to feel sorry for him.

Ashley sits Claire down at the kitchen table and tells her it's about the vasectomy. "Nothing's gone wrong has it?" she asks, "are you having problems?" He tells her there can't be any problems because he never had it done. He couldn't do it. He couldn't have anyone doing that to him. Claire is outraged that he's been lying to her ever since. "Bare faced lies! After everything I said about what another pregnancy would do to me? How I couldn't face it?" She tells him all this talk about not knowing the future is just a cover for him being a coward. "A lying, sniveling coward who won't do something for his own wife! Something that matters more than anything to her!" (Forgive me for stating the obvious, but if it matters so much to Claire why doesn't SHE do something about it!)

In the pub, Rita asks Norris if it would have made any difference if Ramsay had told him about his illness. Norris admits that he doesn't know. Then he tells them that he's sure that they liked Ramsay more than they like him, he had charm. He tells them he wouldn't expect them to change their opinion of him now that he's not here, he would think less of them if they did, so they shouldn't expect him to change his. Emily asks if he has any regrets. He says everybody has some, but he wishes that Ramsay had never come back into his life, but he does wish they'd parted on better terms. He adds that regrets won't make any difference to Ramsay now. Rita looks at Emily and says they might make a difference to those he's left behind.

Sally asks Kevin if he's going to carry on running and he tells her he will. "It gets in your blood. Why?" he asks, "Do you want me to stop?" She tells him she doesn't. She asks if Molly will carry on too. He says that's up to her and Tyrone. "You mean it's up to her," says Sally, adding that she thinks it's Molly who makes all the decisions in that house. "Yup," says Kevin, "I think she probably does."

Meanwhile, Tyrone is still trying to establish whether Molly is in a mood because he didn't turn up for the race. "How many times?" she yells, "no I'm not, what do you want me to do? Write it in big letters on the ceiling?" He asks if they're ok then. She tells him they're same as they were yesterday and the day before that. He then asks if she'd like to go out somewhere later, but she tells him no.

Just then Jack walks in, saying he's got two things to tell them. Molly asks if he's going out as she's just doing tea. He tells her it's darts night at the Legion and they're doing food so she and Tyrone can have a nice, quiet meal on their own. Tyrone asks what the second thing is. Jack tells them he doesn't want them to take what he tells them the wrong way. "You must promise that you wont," he says. He tells them that although the house used to be his, it was now theirs and he thinks they would all be happier if he moved out. Tyrone is really upset and turns to Molly. "Tell him he doesn't have to go!" he cries. Molly says that she doesn't want him to go, but Jack says it's not about what they want, it's about what he wants, and one day they'll see that it'll all be for the best. Then he tells them he'll leave them on their own, and goes off out of the door. Tyrone asks Molly if she knew what Jack was going to say. "Why would I?" she asks him. He asks if they should try to stop him, but she tells him no. Tyrone wonders where Jack's going to go. Molly tells him it's up to him. "When people want to do things, Babe, they do them. Even if they know it's wrong and they shouldn't, it doesn't matter." Then she tells him his tea is ready.

Anne Logan

Tyrone is cooking bacon for breakfast and Molly comes in with a bag. When she reveals she has bought bacon sandwiches for Jack, Tyrone is put out. Molly shrugs and says if he thinks bacon sandwiches are going to stop Jack from going then Roy's will do just as well. At this point, Sally calls round and tells them she is planning a surprise party for Kevin's birthday. Molly is surprised to learn it was Kevin's birthday and is reluctantly roped in to helping Sally with the food.

Becky is telling Steve about a drug dealer named Mother Theresa who she and Slug had links with. Liz watches in disgust as Steve hurries out to follow this up. Becky assures Liz that Mother Theresa is nice but Liz shoots her down saying he is scum like everyone else in that world. She goes on to say that it is Becky's world, not Steve's and she should stop dragging him into it.

Rita calls round to see Emily and tells her she should talk to Norris about flying Ramsay's body back to England. She offers to speak to him herself but Emily replies that she would rather she didn't.

In the cafe, Jack is telling Connie that he is looking for somewhere else to live. She asked him where he would keep his pigeons in a flat and he replies he knows some people that will take them. Connie can tell Jack is in two minds about leaving his home and tells him it won't be easy as there are so many memories.

Roy serves Becky a breakfast in the shape of a face. She tells him that she is going to eat her way through all of her specials before she goes on remand but Hayley doesn't want any of this talk. Becky tells them she will have to prepare herself for it sometime but goes on to say it isn't all bad. The only way Hooch can get her in to prison is by framing her, and that at least, is some progress from what she was like when she first arrived.

In the shop, Norris is fiddling with the card display while Rita tries to convince him to provide some way for Emily to pay her respects to Ramsay as she isn't likely going to be in Australia any time soon.

Ashley has called round to the cab office to see Claire but she is still in a very bad mood with him. She asks him if the scenario he plans is death or divorce. Ashley is confused so she says that he must plan to have babies with someone else so how is he going to get rid of her...death or divorce?

Becky tells Liz that she has told Steve to call off the chase. When Liz isn't forthcoming with her gratitude Becky says that she will be suffering as well. Liz retorts it is just as hard for the person on the outside, living half of a life and that when she goes down, she will take the best part of Steve down with her

Molly is helping Sally prepare for Kevin's surprise party and is holding a pavlova. She asks if Sally wants her to help assemble it. After Sally agrees, she realises she has dropped a raspberry onto her top and runs upstairs to change it. At this point Kevin enters and is shocked to see Molly there. He asks her what she has said to Sally but she points out that she has been roped in to helping surprise him. Sally calls down his name and he shouts up and tells her he is just back for his wallet. Sally comes down once he has left and Molly tells her he never saw her.

Steve comes home and apologises to Becky for not answering her messages. He hasn't got very far on his lead from Mother Theresa and Becky tells him she wants to stop the hunt and enjoy the last of their time together. Steve is incredulous that she is going to let Hooch win but she says he won't win as he can't take the last of this time away from them. She tells him that when she goes to prison she wants him to see that as if it's over and not put his life on hold for her. Steve is having none of it and says that he is her husband and he will do everything in his power to find Slug.

Jack hasn't been keen on any of the flats he has viewed and he turns Connie down when she offers him a room at her place. He tells her he is trying to move away from getting under people's feet but she insists that he would be doing her a favour.

Roy is heading out to buy ingredients to make his specials' even better for Becky and Hayley says Becky always wanted her to make a vodka jelly. Roy replies that they don't have a licence.

Emily calls to the shop and tells Norris there is a message on his phone from someone Australian saying it shouldn't be a problem. He tells them that he has requested that Ramsay's body is flown back to England.

Liz has called round to Liz' and she is talking about Becky, unaware that Becky is listening. She tells Deirdre that she is trouble and, whether she was set up or not, she hasn't got the capabilities to make Steve happy.

Claire is causing an awkward situation by making digs at Ashley as Kevin's friends wait for him coming home. She blatantly asks Tyrone if he would ever have a vasectomy and he spluttered that he and Molly have yet to have their kids. Molly reminds him that they don't know if they can yet. Claire tells them not to worry as any problems in that department and Ashley has the expertise to help them out.

Meanwhile, Steve comes home to find a letter from Becky

Back at the Webster household, Ashley is telling Claire in private that she can say what she wants to him but he doesn't see why she has to broadcast it to everyone else. Meanwhile Kevin returns home and puts on an act of looking surprised. Tyrone holds up a ribbon and tells Kevin and Molly to cross it into the party as if they were finishing the marathon.

Steve runs downstairs to thrust Becky's letter at Liz and he tells her that Becky has gone.

EPISODE TWO

In the break Steve has alerted Roy and Hayley to Becky's disappearance. Hayley is visibly upset and tells Steve she hates Hooch and she doesn't use that word sparingly. They promise to let Steve know if they hear anything.

Sally is passing Frescho's best around on plates as classical music plays at Kevin's party. She warbles on about how well the table sits plenty of people and she asks Claire if she doesn't regret swapping as she might need to seat more kids one day. Claire shrugged and said that accidents happen, like the one that almost killed her recently. Molly is aghast when Tyrone asks Sally if she is ever broody but Sally says she would never go through all that again. She goes on to say Kevin wouldn't handle it either as it would cut into his pub time. She giggles that he like a caveman and Claire gulps down another mouthful of wine before commenting that Ashley is as well. She then asks Molly if Tyrone is as well but she snaps that she doesn't think any of them are.

Blanche is moaning to Peter that Deirdre has stood her up and asks him if he'd like to play Bridge with the one o clock club. He says he can't as he has a date before heading over to two women and offering them a drink.

Roy and Hayley leave Becky a message on her answerphone telling her how much she means to them. Hayley says to her that she would be upset if she had left without saying goodbye to them.

Back to the party from hell and Kevin comments that the pavlova is delicious. Tyrone pipes up that Molly made it but a miffed Sally replies that Molly only assembled it and she didn't use enough raspberries. Ashley notices that Claire is downing a lot of wine and she tells Kevin not to worry she won't make a pass at him this time. Molly watches, shocked, as Claire giggles about the time she tried it on with Kevin. She says it only happened because she was clinically mad at the time and Ashley was cheating and Sally replies ‘Is that what makes my husband attractive? It takes wine goggles for me!" Molly erupts that she is being nasty to Kevin and Sally says she is only joking. Molly voices her doubt at this and Sally asks her coldly if she has X Ray vision into people's marriages.

Peter is chatting up one of the girls but is being quite unsuccessful. He overhears Janice answering her phone to Leanne. Noticing Peter watching, she says loudly that ‘nowt much changes round ere love."

Across the bar Jack says he ought to get home. Liz asks him why and he shrugs saying that he doesn't have anyone to wallop him round the head with a rolling pin for being late. Liz smiles and says that wherever she is up there, she'll be keeping an eye on him

Tyrone and Molly have left and are on the way to the pub. Tyrone tells Molly that for whatever reason she is feeling like this then she should stop taking it out on other people. Molly relents and agrees to apologise to Sally.

Roy and Hayley answer the phone to Becky who apologises to them for not saying goodbye. She urges them not to try and find them before she throws her mobile in the bin. Roy has noticed a tannoy announcement in the background that indicates she is at the bus station and they tell Steve...

...who rushes to the bus station and, after doing the typical soap thing of grabbing someone from behind who looks like the person they are searching for, he sees Becky heading onto a bus and follows.

Becky is off the bus and telling Steve that she is leaving for Steve. She reminisces and about their trip to the Maldives and how it was like a dream. Steve points out that it wasn't a dream it was real life-their life. She asks what he got out of taking her lovely places and treating her well and he answers: you! He tells her she is beautiful, crazy and passionate and he loves how she has two sides to her. One where she seems so fragile and another where she is so strong. He tells her to do what she wants but she mustn't dare try and imply that it is for him as it would break his heart.

As Perry Como sings: ‘And I love her so' in the background, Jack sips a drink and looks at a photo of Vera and says ‘Don't look at me like that! I've only had one! Or Two." He looked around, seeming very choked and asked Vera if she thought his memories of her were in this house. He answers his question saying that they aren't in the bricks and mortar but in his head and his knackered old heart. In a highly touching scene, he raises his glass, with tears in his eyes and says: ‘Happy Birthday Vee'

Steve is sitting in his car and Becky approaches and knocks on the window. Steve welcomes her with a smile and she climbs in.

Molly has come round to apologise to Sally, who is moaning that Claire and Ashley brought one bottle of wine but ended up drinking two. Molly hands Sally a bottle of wine to say sorry. Sally assumes she got it on staff discount but Molly tells her she got it in the Rovers. Double price as she is double sorry. Sally eventually relents and accepts the apology.

Steve brings Becky round to Roy and Hayley's who make a fuss of her. Hayley presents her with a vodka jelly.

Claire is sitting at her table in tears and Ashley approaches her testily. Claire says she never wants to turn into that person again that she was at the party but blames Ashley for making her feel like this. Ashley continues to apologise but to little effect. She tells him he will hear no more on the subject but he had better not lay a finger on her ever again.

The episode closes with Steve and Becky crossing the cobbles with Steve promising her that they will get through this situation somehow. Keep reading next week to find out how!

What have we learned tonight?

-Cooking bacon quietens it's sizzling when a character is talking
-Tyrone finds the prospect of Molly sitting on Kevin weird. Let's hope he hasn't been reading these updates then!
-There aren't many drug dealers wearing a crucifix and called Mother Theresa
-Respect costs nowt
-The card stand in the Kabin hasn't been oiled for years, despite the late Colin's claims.
-Kevin has always loved pavlova
-Roy doesn't have a licence for vodka jelly
-According to Claire, Ashley isn't ruling out affairs, which is a wise decision when you live on Coronation Street
-Hayley will happily do unspeakable things to DC Hooch
-Blanche's Bridge friend, Anna Ashby, has a taste for young flesh
-Roy's tannoy hearing skills are impeccable
-Coaches are free of charge in Weatherfield seeing as not a single passenger handed over a fare to the driver.

Dubious Awards of the Evening

Best use of spare time: "I go where homeless people hang out." Steve
Most unlikely storyline: "I've had a thought" Becky
Most worrying statement: "This has been the best time of my life" Becky, whose other moments don't bear thinking about if that is true

Thanks for reading

Duncan Lindsay

written by Mark Wadlow, directed by Alan Wareing

Jack is perusing the newspaper for flats to rent. There is one in Victoria Court but it might be a bit too posh for Jack, and besides, there's no place for the pigeon coop! Tyrone seems intent on finding the negative in any of Jack's choices, urging him to take his time choosing, right Molly? Molly is silent.

Steve wants to take Becky out for the day but she reckons that, as she has to answer her bail tomorrow, he might be doing it because it's her last day of freedom. She'd prefer to spend it at home with him and touch base with a few of her friends.

A leggy blonde is rushing around Peter's flat gathering her things. This is Naomi and she's spent the night with Peter who tries to convince her to stay a little longer. They end up cavorting around the flat, squealing and chasing but are stopped short with Ken arrives, bringing Simon back from a sleepover! Oops! Ken applies that disapproving, half-surprised look he does. Simon just thinks they are playing tag, or Tick as he calls it.

Across the road, Joe, dressed in a suit and tie, leaves the house for his court hearing where he'll be sentenced. Tina wants to come with him but he puts a quick stop to that. He is intent on going alone. No arguments. Across the road, Ty and Molly are outside as well. Tyrone is grumbling about Molly's attitude making Jack feel he has to leave and why tell him they row all the time? Molly laughs and says that's because they do! Tyrone insists they stop or it will further and more quickly drive Jack out the door. Can we say "separation anxiety?" He instructs Molly to find the bad points in any of Jack's choices. You know she's going to cheerfully ignore Tyrone, don't you? Kevin comes out of the garage and asks Tyrone to test drive a car. Off he goes, while Kevin and Molly make cow eyes at each other.

Lloyd is decorating the Merc for a wedding and is dressed in a suit and tie. Steve arrives and is asked to take the switchboard since both Eileen and Claire are off. Lloyd has also worked all night, is that safe? Anyway Steve grills him on how many drivers were on overnight and did he make sure to advise them to keep an eye out for Slug. Lloyd sympathises but has to get going.

In the office of the garage, Kevin and Molly are snogging, in the doorway! They bill and coo but spring apart when Sally comes in. They make out that they were talking about running. Sally has been doing the books and notices that there haven't been any call outs. He should be doing more to make up for the cost of the breakdown truck. He growls but it's given him something to think about.

In the cafe, Becky is clutching on to Hayley and won't let go. When Roy comes in, Becky wants to bring him into a group hug but he resists. Roy is thinking positively that Becky won't go down. Jack and Connie come in and order pies and chips (Jack) and salad (Connie). He apologizes for being in a funny mood the other day as it was Vera's birthday. He was surprised it bothered him as much as it did but she commiserates, those sorts of things will for awhile.

Lloyd drops off the wedding couple at the hotel with his congratulations. He radios in to Steve but the reception is terrible. He starts to undress the car and spots a group of men outside a pub across the road and one of them is Slug!!! He pulls the rest of the ribbon off and tries to reach Steve again. No luck because of the reception.

Back to Jack and Connie, congenially sharing their pies and chuckling. She asks about his flat hunting and he admits it's not going well because he just can't picture himself living on his own. She re-issues the invite to live at hers. He hums and haws a bit more and then gives in and says he'd like to. She looks dead excited. Behind the counter, she assures Roy she's got a good barrister. Roy wishes she wouldn't get into these messes. Not really put the right way, she's upset because she thinks he still doesn't believe her innocence but he stutters that isn't the case as Hayley comes into the argument as well and both women accuse him. A man can't win!

Lloyd, with the ribbon still wrapped around his hand, frantically calls Steve from a call box and finally gets through on a clear line. Steve quickly abandons the shop and races out to where Lloyd is. But Slug has finished his pint and disappears so Lloyd goes along to see where he went, running across the street. He finds Slug doing a drug deal behind the pub and chases him down a flight of steps, He then launches himself and knocks down the scum to the ground, just like 007! (ok, 004 and three quarters, maybe!) He uses the ribbon to tie Slug's wrists together.

Kevin tells Molly of his plan. If he does more vehicle recoveries, he can use that as an excuse to get away for a few hours and meet Molly. She'll find something to tell Tyrone. Jack comes in looking troubled. Kevin leaves and Jack tells Molly he might cook their tea but really, he's looking for advice. He tells Molly that Connie has a big house and wants him to move in, just as friends, but he's worried about how Tyrone will take it. Molly is pleased for Jack. She knows Vera would want Jack to be happy. Jack knows it's ok with Vera, he talks to her all the time but could Molly help break the news to Tyrone?

Peter has come to Ken's to apologize for getting caught nearly with his pants down that morning. Ken apologizes too, for not calling first. Blanche is caustic about it all until she hears that Naomi is a nurse. Then she's very interested and her mind changes abruptly. Peter assures both of them that Simon does indeed come first but he does hope to see her again.

Steve races to where Lloyd has the Merc parked and runs around looking for them. He finds them behind the pub where Lloyd still has Slug on the ground. Lloyd drags him up onto his feet and he and Steve take him off.

Later, Steve is in the back seat with Slug and Steve lays out his accusations. Slug is pouring attitude out and isn't afraid of Steve at all. Steve asks Lloyd to beat him up but Lloyd doesn't' want to, he's just not the violent type. Neither one of them seem to be able to gather the nerve or the gumption to put a thumping on Neil. All Steve can do is shake him a bit. It's odd, though, I can recall seeing both of them lay off and punch someone in the past, when really provoked and you'd think this would be the most provoking thing of all!

In the cafe, Roy is still being given the cold shoulder. Roy tries to explain and says he worries and wishes she wouldn't make the same mistakes over and over. Becky snaps that she realizes she was getting up Hooch's nose but even though she's innocent, maybe she does deserve this for all the times she did stuff in the past and didn't get caught. Roy hopes that doesn't happen but pledges his support no matter what. He announces he's going to do something he rarely does in public and he lays his hands on her shoulders and rubs them. Becky melts and pulls him into a hug where he can't seem to find a comfortable place to put his hands!

Steve pats Slug's cheek and is ridiculed further by Lloyd. What they have to do is find someone who really does scare Slug and Steve knows just the person. They pile the hapless dealer into the boot of the Merc.

Jack brings home steak and ale and tells Molly he'll feed and water Tyrone and then bring up the news. Molly tries to assure him and they have to make Tyrone see that it's Jack's life and he has to do what he wants. Tyrone will have to see that if he really cares about Jack, he's got to let go. Jack isn't sure Tyrone is going to understand. Tyrone arrives home and Molly doesn't waste any time. First she had told Jack she'd talk to her husband but instead she just announces that Connie has invited Jack to live with her. Subtle. Tyrone's face darkens immediately.

Joe arrives back home. He's been given community service. He seems down but hey, it's not so bad is it?

The cab comes around the corner and stops in front of the pub. Slug of course, has no idea where they are. The men get out of the car and open the boot. Lo and behold, there's a furious Becky stood there. Uh yep, that's the one face guaranteed to put the fear of God into Slug! The episode ends with her glaring down at him.

Tvor

Becky hauls Slug out of the boot of the car and gives him a good pasting while Steve and Lloyd watch on, nonchalantly. "You lying, cheating lowlife," Becky tells Slug with a thump for every word. She grabs Slug by the ear and drags him into the cab office.

Tyrone is sulking on the lounge while Jack and Molly plead with him to see sense. Tyrone thinks that Jack has been lying to him and is still convinced that Connie is after Jack's money. Jack can't seem to talk him round but tells Tyrone and Molly that he wants to take them to see Molly's place.

Slug is being questioned by Becky in the cab office. He denies planting the drugs on Becky but Becky knows he is lying. "You turn up out of the blue, next thing I know the pub gets raided, on my wedding day!" Slug is surprised that Becky is now married to Steve. Becky wonders aloud what will happen if Slug actually doesn't have anything to do with the drugs being planted. Lloyd reckons that he and Steve will be in as much trouble as Becky, if that's true. Slug tries to make a deal, "You let me go now and we'll say no more about it." He has a wry smile on his face and Becky looks on suspiciously.

Simon and Peter come home to the Barlow house. Blanche talks to Simon about Peter's nurse friend, Naomi. Peter tells Blanche that she is coming round again tonight but contrary to what Blanche thinks, Peter wants Simon with him tonight. He asks Simon if he wants to help him cook.

Slug is still denying anything to do with Becky's predicament. He tells Steve, Becky and Lloyd that their whole story sounds ridiculous. Steve doesn't believe him because Slug's a druggie. Lloyd even saw Slug making a drug deal when he spied him earlier. Becky fishes in Slug's pocket, finds a bag of drugs and knows for sure now that Slug is lying- She asks Steve and Lloyd if she can be left alone with him for a bit.

Tyrone, Molly and Jack pull up outside Connie's huge house. "Golddigger, eh?" asks Molly of Tyrone, "she must be good at it!" Connie rushes out to open the gates to the front drive for them.

Becky, alone with Slug, asks why Slug did it. She wonders if Slug is jealous of her and Steve and how she has managed to turn her life around. She tells Slug that she will go to prison for five years for something she didn't do and she asks Slug if he thinks Steve will be waiting for her after that. Slug lets it all out. He tells Becky he tried to warn her about Hooch. "He was using me to get to you," he says, "you're the big prize." Hooch had caught Slug with a big bag of drugs and promised to let him off if he set Becky up. Becky is disgusted. Slug reminds her that he is an addict with a habit to support and knows nobody will help him get clean after all this time. Becky tells Slug she would have helped him. Slug apologises for letting her down. Steve and Lloyd reappear. Becky tells them that Slug has admitted everything. "Well, well. This changes everything. I'll call the solicitor," says Steve.

Steve is on the phone to the solicitor. When he finishes he tells Becky, "This is explosive stuff. Hooch could go down for conspiracy to pervert the course of justice, conspiracy to supply drugs and misconduct in a public office. He'll probably go down- definitely lose his job." Slug refuses to give any evidence, knowing that the defense will pick holes in him, given his track record. Slug is doubtful that Steve has the wit to outsmart Hooch and he again absolutely refuses to help Becky. Steve takes Slug's bag of drugs off him and locks it up until he agrees to help. "And if not," Steve threatens him, "I'm gonna flush 'em down the bog."

Tyrone and Jack are walking through the vast interior of Connie's mansion. Jack mentions to Tyrone that the first time Connie brought him here, he thought he'd died and gone to heaven. Tyrone snaps, "Except it's not heaven is it? Because a certain somebody is not here." Jack is angry that Tyrone would think that he is using Connie to replace Vera. He explains to Tyrone that he and Connie will have separate rooms. He asks Tyrone for his blessing. Tyrone concedes that Jack's new digs "is nice." Jack takes Tyrone to see the best bit- a magnificent games room with full sized snooker table.

Steve, Becky, Slug and Lloyd are in a car, in the rain. Lloyd is asking Steve his plans for Hooch. Steve has called Hooch and they are waiting for him now. Steve seems to be the only one of the four of him with any faith in their evidence. Slug doesn't even think Hooch will show up for this meeting in the middle of nowhere. "He'll come," says Becky with an edge in her voice. "And when he does, you're gonna do exactly what he says, do you hear me? You owe me that!"

Jack and Tyrone have had a lovely time playing snooker. He, Jack, Molly and Connie have a laugh about Typhoid Tyrone's imaginary career as a pro-snooker player. Tyrone takes the opportunity to apologise to Connie for being such a twit. He tells her, "See the trouble is, Connie, Jack and Vera are the nearest thing I've had to a proper mum & dad. That's why I've acted how I have. I've just been really selfish, that's all." He goes on to tell Connie that he'll be really pleased to know Jack is staying there with her.

Peter's date, Naomi, has arrived at the flat. She doesn't seem too pleased to see Simon will be spending the evening with them and looks uncomfortable when Simon tries to engage her in conversation. She tries to fob Simon off with a DVD but Peter wants them all to play snakes & ladders together. Naomi takes a large gulp of her wine.

Hooch arrives to meet with Steve. Steve greets him, "Evening officer! Set anybody up today?" Hooch makes some snide remarks about how Steve's pub ended up being a drug den. Steve reveals Slug in the car but Hooch is not shaken. "Is this your secret weapon?" he asks, "Neil Ackroyd, renowned druggie and burglar of this parish?" Slug tries to scarper but Becky is holding fast. Slugs tells Hooch that he is prepared to give evidence in court if he has to to help Becky. He says he'll even go down but he won't let Hooch do this to Becky. Steve tells Hooch all the charges they plan to lay against him. "You made this happen, Hooch," Steve says, "Make it stop."

Naomi, Peter and Simon are playing snakes & ladders. Naomi wonders if it's Simon's bedtime before heading off to the little girl's room. While she is gone, Peter asks Simon if he likes Naomi. Simon doesn't and tells his dad, "She makes me feel like I'm in the way." Peter reassures him that he is never in the way. Simon eschews dinner and goes off to bed. Naomi comes back and is pleased to be alone at last. Peter gives her the cold shoulder which is all to obvious to Naomi. She asks him what's wrong. Peter explains that since she and Simon have not hit it off then there's no future in them. "So," she huffs, "I'm being given the old heave-ho by a bloke's six-year-old? That's a new low!" She grabs her coat before storming off.

Hooch is not giving in easily. He tells Steve that given the fact that his bosses won't believe Steve and that Slug will be laughed out of court, he will take the risk to see Becky sent down, "Anything to see she gets what she deserves," Hooch says nastily. "See you in court, Becky," he says before screaming off in his car.

In the Rovers, Kevin starts to pave the way to making more time for Molly by telling Sally that he has decided he will be doing more call-out work. He thinks that with all the other garages in town, he'll be lucky if they get called out twice a week anyway. Meanwhile, Molly is at home with Tyrone, telling him she wants to take some yoga classes. Sally and Tyrone are blissfully unaware of their spouses' deceit. I wish I was too.

Steve, Becky, Lloyd and Slug arrive back on the street. Steve is the only one who seems to have any hope left. Lloyd thinks that Hooch laughed in their faces. Steve is somewhat deflated by this and thinks that they at least had to give it a try. Becky knows he meant well but tells him, "Hooch is an animal and you just rattled his cage."

Stella McLoughlin

Today's the day Becky has to go and answer her bail, and she's stressed. She makes a show of cooking breakfast, asking Steve how he likes his eggs. She's an over-easy girl herself she tells him. He hugs her and tells her not to worry, everything's going to be all right. She's not convinced, saying she knows Hooch is going to lock her away.

Simon is eating his breakfast and is pleased when Peter tells him he won't be seeing Naomi again. He's keen to go collecting conkers before school, so Peter tells him to hurry up and go and clean his teeth, and he'll feed Leanne the rabbit for him. As Simon goes off to the bathroom, Peter opens the hutch, only to find that poor Leanne is now deceased!

Becky is watching Amy eat her boiled egg and soldiers, and Steve is thoughtful. He tells Becky that Amy has grown to love her and he's worried that it might mess her up. "What did you expect?" asks Liz, coming in on the conversation. "Thanks Mum, that really helps," snaps Steve. Liz apologises and then says maybe it would be good if Becky explains to Amy what might happen today. "Clean up me own mess, you mean?" says Becky. "No," says Liz, "but because you'd do it well." "I get all the bum jobs round here," mutters Becky.

Sean is looking at Jessie's macaw, remarking that he's not very talkative. Jessie says that some do and some don't, one was known to have over a thousand words. "More than our Jason!" says Eileen. There's a knock on the door and Jason goes to get it. It's Leon, come to ask Jason if he fancies going to the gym after work. "Yeah, I'm just coming out," says Jason. "Coming out?" asks Leon. "Yes, to work," says Jason and off they go. Eileen laughs, but Sean doesn't think it's funny, wondering what he's going to say when they find out that he's told Leon that Jason is gay.

Becky takes Amy to one side and starts to talk to her about what happened at school when some naughty children got her into trouble when she hadn't done anything wrong. "That can happen to grownups too," she says, and explains how there's a nasty bloke who's been going round telling lies about her and so when she gets home from school Becky might not be there. "Where will you be?" asks Amy, and Becky tells her she might be in ‘that prison place' like her mummy. "Does that mean you killed someone?" asks Amy, but Becky assures her she didn't. Amy wants to know how long she will be away for, and Becky tells her it might be some time, but she's going to think about her every day because she is her most favourite little girl in the whole world and she loves her to bits. "Don't be sad," says Amy, and gives her a big hug.

Amber goes into the kebab shop and tells Darryl that he's invited to a party being given by Geoff Collins tomorrow night. "Dandruff Geoff?" asks Minnie. Amber tells her they don't call him that any more, he's cool. He's having a leaving party before he goes off on his gap year, and Darryl is invited. "Great," says Darryl, without enthusiasm. "Don't sound so excited," says Ambers, so Darryl tries to work some up. "Yeah, cool," is all he can manage.

Jessie is in the cafe talking to Bill and Pam, he tells them he needs a woman riding shotgun. "Still no Hiya-Lowa?" asks Pam adding that he should put himself online, Bill did and it's helped his business no end. She offers to help him put an ad together.

Blanche goes into the bookies and says how pleased she is with Peter because she saw a certain young lady getting into a taxi at a very civilized hour last night. She commends him for putting Simon first. He explains how Simon didn't take to Naomi so he told her it wouldn't work out between them. "Well done!" says Blanche. Peter then asks if she'll mind the shop for an hour so he can nip out and get Simon a new rabbit - and he opens a box and shows her the dead one. "How's he taking it?" asks Blanche, but Peter confesses he hasn't told him, he just thought he'd go out and get an identical rabbit so Simon wouldn't know the difference. Blanche tells him Simon will know every tuft of fur on it's body. Peter says he can't tell him it's dead, but Blanche says he must. "Get your thinking cap on and work something out," she tells him.

Becky is in the cafe and orders a mixed grill, then she will have worked her way through the entire menu. "You've heard of the last supper? Well this is the last lunch," she says, but Hayley tells her not to talk like that. Just then Kelly walks in, as Becky remarks that they all know she's going down. "Ah, back to where you belong then," says Kelly, smugly. Hayley tells her not to start, Becky's been falsely accused. Kelly says she knows what that's like, she's got a criminal record now because of Becky. "You already had a record," says Becky, and Kelly retorts that it's twice as long now because of her. "I have apologises for that," says Becky, and Hayley adds that it was a long time ago. "I don't forget easy," says Kelly. Becky says that the past is all Kelly has got, nothing ever happens to her any more, whereas when she gets out she'll have a good man waiting for her. "I'd rather go to prison any day of the week than change places with you," she says. "Well, lets hope you get your wish then," says Kelly, walking out.

Minnie asks Darryl why he wasn't keen on Amber's party and asks if he's scared of her brainy mates. "No," says Darryl. Minnie wonders if he thinks Amber is just going through the motions until she gets to London when it will just fizzle out. "If you keep bubbling with enthusiasm like this it's going to happen," she says. Darryl says how he told Amber he wanted to move to London, but she barely listened. "So say it again," says Minnie, "you've got to convince her that you mean it."

Steve and Becky are on their way to the police station. As they walk through the Rovers Lloyd says he's sure that in a couple of hours she'll come bursting back through the door, and gives her a hug. "Look after yourself," says Liz, and gets almost tearful! "Keep your pecker up, eh?"

Darryl meets up with Amber in the cafe and tells her he wants to get some business training, some qualifications. He reckons if he gets a job and, with her student loan, they could afford a place near her college. Amber doesn't sound keen. "What about the holidays?" she asks, telling him that terms are only ten weeks long so she's going to be back in Manchester for five months of the year. "Are you sure we can't afford it or do you just not want me there?" She says she thought they'd agreed, she would come up and see him at weekends and he could go and see her. "Not every weekend maybe, but there's no other way to do it," she says, adding, "we'll be fine." Darryl doesn't look convinced.

Becky and Steve arrive at the police station, she kisses him and then approaches the desk, saying she's come to answer her bail. The officer behind the desk says he needs to check on something and disappears for a few moments.

Back in Coronation Street, Simon is counting the conkers he's collected, he's got 23. Peter then breaks the news about the rabbit.

The officer comes back to the desk and tells Becky she's free to go, the charges have been dropped. "Why?" asks Becky, but Steve just thanks him and pulls her away. DC Hooch looks at them through the slats of a Venetian blind.

In a very well acted, and touching scene, Peter shows Simon the dead rabbit. "Can I stroke him?" he asks, "and will he go to heaven with my mummy?" Peter says he will, and she will look after him, they'll be together for ever. "Will I go to heaven?" asks Simon. "One day, mate," says Peter, tenderly. "I want to go to heaven now," says Simon, tearfully. Peter tells him he can't go now, he's got all his life to live. He tells him to say goodbye to Leanne and shuts the box. "I miss my mummy," says Simon. Peter hugs him and says gently, "I know, I know."

In the pub, the suspense is killing Liz, when suddenly the door opens and in walk Becky and Steve! "I'm free!" shouts Becky.

Pam has drafted an ad for Jessie. "Lonesome cowboy seeks faithful Indian squaw for children's entertainment. No experience necessary but must have GSOH (good sense of humour) and outgoing personality…." Just then Leon arrives, looking for Jason, who comes down the steps sporting bright orange dungarees and yellow builder's helmet. "And here we have Jason wearing the latest Pam Hobsworth functional dungarees in a resilient cotton!" says Pam, and tells a spluttering Bill that he needs a uniform, and it'll set him apart. Just then Eileen comes along and asks Leon what he thinks. "Very fetching!" he answers, eyeing Jason up and down.

Back in the Rovers, Becky is puzzled and confused about why Hooch has done this. "It doesn't add up," she says. Lloyd says he'd be cracking open the champagne if it was up to him, but Becky is skeptical. "Hooch is the bentest copper I've ever come across," she says, and she sure he's got something else up his sleeve.

Blanche visits Peter to find out how it went when he told him about the rabbit. "You did the right thing," she says. Peter reckons its not really about the rabbit, it's more about his mum, he never really grieved for Lucy. "He needs a mother's love," he says, "there's a huge hole in that boy's life and I've got to fill it - but how?"

Anne Logan

Hello and welcome to this double-banger update as I return the favour to Duncan who covered my episode last week.

We begin at the bookies', where Peter perches Simon on the counter and asks what's wrong. Simon has overhead a teacher say he was too young to cope with all this loss. He says grown-ups are always saying things thinking children won't listen. Peter suggests they go and get a new rabbit, but Simon just wants Leanne back. If he can't have that, he'd like a funeral for the bunny.

Becky's had a decadent bath in the middle of the day. She starts to get grumpy about Hooch, wondering how long he will leave her alone. Liz comes up to ask if Becky can work tonight because Betty can't and Steve reminds her that it's their second attempt at a wedding reception tonight. Liz says she'll have a word with Sean. Liz leaves and Becky spies a horse in Steve's paper that she thinks he should put some money on.

Deirdre's away and Ken's thinking of going to Portsmouth, but he tells Peter he'll hold off so he can go to the funeral. Blanche thinks a funeral is a brilliant idea. Until she remembers her funeral skirt needs to go to the cleaners and she'll have to wear slacks. Steve comes in to put his money on She's Out. Steve and Peter bond over the trails of being a single dad. Steve managed to cope because he met Michelle and now Becky, he tells Peter.

Becky, in bright green tracksuity thing, has been to Freshco in her curlers. Blanche is astounded. "I thought you'd be languishing in Wentworth Prison b'now," she says. Becky says she didn't get charged. Blanche doesn't think that means she's innocent. It just means she got lucky. "It's a shame you think that," says Becky cheerfully, "cos you probably won't want to come to the pub tonight for a free bevvy . . . oh well . . ." Blanche tries to recover her lost ground but Becky tells her: "Forget it, Grandma. You ain't welcome!" Then she tells Blanche she reminds her of one of the cast of Prisoner Cell Block H (that was its UK name. It's the Aussie series Prisoner to the rest of the world, or Caged Women in Canada, according to imdb.com). Unfortunately for Blanche, it's not Patsy King as governor Erica Davidson but busybody Lizzie!

Jesse's impressed by the applications from potential sidekicks. Jason's going off to play football in Leon's team. Sean's agreed to work at the Rovers but says he might come along later.

Becky shows Steve all the snacks she bought to serve up later. She won't be distracted by him.

Amber meets Darryl and breaks the news to him that Mitch is coming with them. Mitch has booked a cab and tells Amber how much he's looking forward to London. Darryl's surprised to hear that Mitch is going with Amber. "Not WITH me, as well as me," she clarifies. Darryl isn't happy.

Peter knocks on the Websters' door and asks Sophie if they've got a shovel he can borrow to bury Leanne on the Red Rec. Sophie thinks it's sweet and offers their garden so Simon can visit whenever he wants. That brings Sally to door faster than you can say "oh no you don't"! "Sophie, you know Graeme's just pruned my herbaceous border," she says. Clearly, this episode was not written by a gardener. Sophie protests and says it's the Christian thing to do. Sally starts to reconsider. "I won't have to do a spread will I?" "Well, just finger food and a chocolate fountain," Peter answers. Yes, he's joking.

Darryl sends Mitch to check on the taxi and demands to know why Amber didn't tell him. She thinks maybe it's because every man in her life is a big fat moron.

The funeral's under way. Sally's in the conservatory explaining to Kevin that she's not going out because she didn't really know him/her. "He was called Leanne but I think he was a transsexual rabbit." Simon makes a brief speech and Blanche bursts into tears. The funeral music is, of course, Bright Eyes.

Jesse shows out one applicant just as another arrives. She's all singing and dancing and quite insistent but Jesse, the parrot, Eileen and Sean are not impressed. Julie shows her out. Julie tells Jesse he should be looking for someone more like her. She offers to be Hialoa until someone better comes along. Jesse and Eileen escape to the pub.

At the after-funeral "do" Peter, Blanche and Ken discuss Simon's sadness. Peter says he's the only one who's going to make Simon happy. They're going on a trip.

The Rovers is full of balloons and Sean's called in sick. Liz says she's going to have to take Becky up on her offer of working during her own wedding reception. Lloyd offers to help out instead. He's brought a banner and Steve thinks he should hang it up outside the pub.

Sean's not sick. He's heading off to the football match. Julie's full of ideas about Hialoa. Sean tells her he doesn't think Jason realises it's a gay football team. He's going to join them to celebrate their win.

Amber's sulking in the shop. Darryl tells her the taxi is there and they have words. Darryl thinks she's planning to jump into bed with Mitch in London. Mitch comes to get them but Darryl refuses to go to the party. Amber leaves and Darryl's mum comes in to buy some Spam. She's got a craving.

Steve's up a ladder singing Bohemian Rhapsody and fixing the banner in place. Teresa stops to show him her tin of spam. She goes in one direction as Hooch arrives from the other, telling Steve to get in.

Peter and Simon arrive at a restaurant. Turns out it's in Leeds and it's where they'll find the non-rabbit Leanne. Simon spots her and calls out. "Oh no!" says Leanne, stopping in her tracks.

The End of Episode One.
Moving right along...

Welcome to the second episode.

Leanne asks the other waitress to serve Peter and Simon.

At a club bearing an advertisement for Mr Gay Weatherfield (anyone spot a predictable plot here?) Sean arrives to find Jason having a good time with Leon and his football pals. Sean takes Leon aside. Leon says he thinks he's in love. Sean breaks it to him that Jason's straight. Leon decides that Sean is just trying to keep Jason to himself.

It's all gone dark and Steve and Hooch are in a parked car. Hooch admits everything. He tells Steve that Becky's off the hook and has a fresh start but there are new ground rules.

The other waitress clearly doesn't like Leanne and tells her to go and do her own dirty work. She puts the orange juices in front of the Barlow boys and wants to know whether Peter wants a vodka in his. Simon asks if she's cross with them. She softens and says she isn't, though she's still hard towards Peter.

Hooch says he's lost the drugs accidentally on purpose and they'll stay lost as long as Steve and Becky keep out of his way and Slug stays quiet. Hooch says he likes Steve but Becky is scum who will drag him down. Steve says Becky's a rough diamond. Hooch tells him to get out of the car, but gives him Becky's name pendant before he does.

In the club, Sean breaks it to Jason that it's a gay club. Jason already knows, though he didn't realise he was playing for a gay football team. "Mint!" says Jason. Jason, a bit drunk, puts his hands on Jason's shoulders to tell him it's all OK. Leon spots it from a distance and when Jason heads for the loo, Leon heads for Sean to accuse him of trying to get back with Jason. The drag queen hosting the evening takes the stage.

Steve arrives back and tells Becky about Hooch and gives her back the pendant. She doesn't really believe him until then.

In the restaurant, Peter goes to the bar and tells Leanne he's never got over her. Leanne is skeptical. She agrees they were happy but says he made her unhappy. He thinks they could be a family again but Leanne tells him her boyfriend wouldn't like that.

The contest for Mr Gay Weatherfield continues with Paul from Balaclava Terrace.

Simon asks Leanne if she's coming back with them. She isn't. Though as Simon looks back at her as they leave, she seems to be wavering.

Jason, man of the match, is lifted shoulder-high and propelled forward and on to the stage, where Leon tells the hostess that he's a late entry for the competition. Jason's drunk enough to go along with it, dancing for the crowd and taking off his shirt. Sean is horrified.

The reception is under way, with Hayley, Roy and the Websters test-driving a new recipe from Eddie. Kevin says the consistency is all wrong and Anna agrees, snatching their plates away. Liz hushes them all for the entry of the bride and groom. They're in their wedding clothes again with Amy in her bridesmaid outfit. Steve gives a little speech, saying the last few weeks have been tough. He says Becky means the world to him and he's determined to make their future better than their past. Everyone cheers except Eileen, who wants a sick bucket.

Jason finishes his topless dance and the hostess asks if he's got a boyfriend. He truthfully says he hasn't. Mitch and Amber are walking home. Mitch is sick of her banging on about Darryl and says he treats Amber like dirt. He grabs her and kisses her to show her what she's missing. Darryl, also out in the street, sees them.

Peter tells Blanche about going to find Leanne but says it's too late. She's met a fella. Blanche tells him Leanne and her fella won't last.

The conga has begun in the Rovers, with poor Amy perched up on the bar helping herself to snacks. Becky, leading the conga line with Steve, suggests they pop upstairs so she can get into her not-going-away outfit. The rest of the conga line hear this and also head upstairs.

Teresa, in the kebab shop, tells Darryl that life is always a disappointment.

You'll never guess who's won Mr Gay Weatherfield! Or perhaps you will. It's Jason! He wins a year's modelling contract and a chance to win Mr Gay UK. Jason celebrates, watched by a blond man I've not seen before.

A taxi pulls up in the street and Leanne gets out - spotted immediately by a thrilled Blanche.

In the club, Sean and Leon try to rouse a very very drunk Jason, arguing at the same time over whether Jason's gay or straight. Sean mentions Tina and Jason tells Leon how lovely Tina is. Sean confesses all, about pretending Jason was gay to try and attract Leon. "You are straight?" Leon asks Jason. "Shhh," says Jason. "They'll take me sash away." Sean drags Jason to his feet and struggles to get him out of the club. The blond guy from earlier offers to give him a hand and together they half carry Jason out.

Leanne's about to knock on Peter's door but sees the lights go out, so she calls Janice and asks if she's got a bed for the night.

The end.
Margaret Carr

Written by Joe Turner, directed by John Anderson

Peter tries to persuade Simon that Leanne has started a new life and has a boyfriend and they have to get on with their own lives. Simon asks if they can go see her anyway but Peter puts him off and tells him that Barlows always bounce back up again and the two of them bounce and jump around the flat to prove it. Unfortunately, though the Barlows have bounce-back-ability, they don't have stamina, at least the older one doesn't and he collapses on the sofa while the little one keeps on hopping.

Jesse and Eileen make their way down the stairs. Jesse is going to nip out for milk and a paper and asks Eileen to check John's food. She reluctantly agrees. She goes into the lounge and opens the cage door then looks around in horror. They've been burgled!!! She hollers for Sean and Jason while tentatively going into the kitchen where the back door is still locked. She undoes it to check in the back yard and ginnel but it's empty. Back inside, she hollers for the boys. Meanwhile, John is out of his cage and he walks out the back door, still open and out the yard. Oh dear.

Janice is very, very hung over. She got into the sherry because she had run out of cans. Leanne has stayed over and chides Janice, handing her aspirin. She tells Jan she doesn't know how long she's staying and admits it didn't work out with the boyfriend. Once Janice finds out that Peter had visited her in Leeds, the penny drops.

Molly is outside arranging the flowers in front of the shop. Kevin runs over for a grope. They make an assignation for that evening around 7, each using their shiny new excuses of Yoga class and breakdown call out. Jesse comes out of the Kabin with Darryl and looks perplexed. His van was in front of the house and it isn't there now. He wonders if he parked it around the corner.

Inside Number 11, Eileen is finding more things missing. Sean looks distinctly uncomfortable. He promises it was locked up when "we" went to bed. Eileen is not impressed.

In the shop, Molly is clearing the schedule with Tyrone and he's ok with her popping out to the gym. Bill comes in for some hard candies, wittering on about having to buy them in different shops so the shopkeepers don't realize how many of them he actually eats. After he leaves, Minnie arrives and the three women chat about Amber's news, that she fell out with Darryl and kissed that Mitch. Minnie figures she should dump Darryl and take Mitch with her to uni. Amber doesn't know what she wants.

Joe sees Bill who's wearing the orange overalls under his plaid shirt and puffy vest (and let me just say he's a far cry from Jason!). Joe remarks on it and is told that it's Pam's idea. Joe mentions he's working in a hardware store at the moment, just part time until something else comes along.

Blanche comes into the betting shop. She's got her Gypsy Rose Hunt hat on again, figuratively, that is. She tells Peter she's got "the gift" and can tell the future. She says she had an irresistible urge to look out the window just as she was going to bed (heard the taxi and was nosey, more like!) Peter is skeptical but his face lights up when he hears that Blanche saw Leanne getting out of the taxi. (Stupid question) where is she now? (Where do you think?) Blanche doesn't have a clue. Peter asks Blanche to mind the shop. She charges 10 quid an hour or part thereof. Peter's lucky, he comes out of the shop just as Leanne comes out of Janice's. She's reticent and insists she came to see Janice on a long planned trip. Peter talks her into having lunch with him and she says she'll meet him in Roy's. He's at his most charming. She doesn't seem to be bending but she *is* smiling.

Jesse returns and says he's van's been nicked as well and now he realizes everything else is gone... including John!!! Eileen doesn't say anything and lets Jesse think the bird's been stolen as well. She calls the police while Jesse moans his missing bird. The police will be over later, but nobody knows how the burglars got in. Jesse asks who else has a key and they list off all the people that have one. And if you're wondering where Jason is, he's taken Tina to meet Todd.

Joe says hey to Bill. He asks if Bill would think of him if he gets any extra work. He'll do anything and he looks good in orange! Bill will keep him in mind.

Sally has a holiday brochure and is showing Kevin. They're perched on the front of a car that's in the middle of being serviced. Kevin looks at the brochure and scoffs that the holiday is way too expensive but maybe they can save up for one next year. Sally's disappointed.

Minnie and Amber come into the kebab shop. Amber apologizes to Darryl. He's acting like it's finished but she thinks it was just a row. He reveals that he saw her kissing another man and doesn't really seem overly upset. He could see it all coming. She tries to justify it as being angry with him to start with but he's having none of it. He gives Minnie the apron to cover the shop while he goes out for some air, much to Amber's dismay.

In the cafe, Peter's continuing on the charm offensive. He admits to her he's an alcoholic and hasn't had a drink in 168 days. He says he's got his priorities straight now. She pretends she's still with the new fella but Peter plays it cool. She could always change her mind, he says hopefully.

Kevin and Tyrone are in the pub. Molly comes in for a drink. She and Kevin whisper at the bar and confirm their date for that evening. She goes over to sit beside Tyrone who moans that Molly never gets a proper dinner hour. Sally peeks her head around the corner, all smug and excited. They're going to Lanzarote after all, Rosie's paying! Sounds like Sally laid a sob story guilt trip on her daughter and it worked! Ty's excited, but Molly's got a knot in her face the size of an anchor rope!

The DC is taking notes at Eileen's. Sean is still looking odd, like he's got a secret. Jesse is wittering on about his bird. They go over the circumstances, wondering about keys and doors and locks until Sean can't take it anymore and blurts out that it was his fault. Eh? He admits he brought a man home from a club last night. He was gone this morning and Sean realized he'd stolen his phone and wallet and he obviously stole everything else, picked up Jesse's keys to the van and drove it all away.

Back to the cafe, Peter asks if it's difficult to work in a restaurant and not eat everything in sight. It's about the same as him managing a betting shop and not being a gambling addict, she points out. He sees the losers and doesn't want to be one, then twigs that she must feel the same when she sees really big customers scoffing. Er. yeah, Leanne mutters. She cuts to the chase, is he seeing anyone? He says he's not. What sort of man do you think I am? Oh she already knows. Names, please. He acts offended and protests, he's been a monk! He changes the subject and asks her to dinner tonight. She only wants him to be honest and he declares up and down that he is being, with all the sincerity of a snake, really. She can see right through him, it's obvious. She tries to get answers and he avoids answering the question, continuing to try to persuade her to come back. He really thinks they were good together and he promises never to let her down again. She looks deep in his eyes and backs off. She doesn't believe him and doesn't trust him. She leaves abruptly.

Hmmm... will Peter be able to talk her round? Come back in a half hour.

Tvor

Peter chases Leanne down the street, pleading with her not to run away. Leanne tells Peter that if they are going to have a relationship, it needs to based on trust and honesty. Peter confesses that he has been less than truthful with her. "The fact is, honestly," he says, as if he actually knows what honesty is, "there was a couple of other women but it was nothing serious, just daft mistakes." Oh, he's such a charmer. He and Leanne go perfectly together. He asks her if he looks like he's being honest now and promises that he will tell her everything she wants to know over dinner. He offers to cook her dinner at his place. It's a date.

Sean is describing the bloke who appears to have burgled Eileen's house in the night. He doesn't seem to be able to recall anything very distinguishing about him. Eileen and Jesse are exasperated. Eileen asks Sean if the bloke gave Sean his number. "No," says Sean and then is excited to recall, "But I gave him mine!" Hopeless! Eileen sarcastically remarks that the burglar can call them up when her telly goes on the blink. Jesse still wonders why he would have taken the bird. Poor Sean, he's a bit useless. He doesn't know anything about the handsome man he met the night before. "I'm so sorry, Eileen," he says, "And Jesse. I feel terrible. I've been so stupid, I deserve to be horsewhipped." Nobody argues.

Sally is showing off her holiday brochure to Tyrone, Molly and Kevin. Kevin doesn't look pleased but protests to Sally that he is. Sally leaves and while Tyrone is off getting a round in, Molly sets about Kevin. "You didn't tell me you were planning a holiday," she sneers at her lover. Kevin tries to explain but Molly is not to be talked round quite so easily. Tyrone comes back and Molly abruptly excuses herself to go back to work.

Sean pleads with Eileen to say something after the police have left. He feels so sorry and pathetic for having brought the first man to pay him any attention home and then having him rob the people he loves most in the world. In a loving way, Eileen tells Sean he is just as much of a victim as everyone else and that insurance will replace what they have lost. "Except my dignity," says Sean, sadly. "And my parrot," says Jesse. Eileen looks guilty but nobody sees. Except us, of course.

Connie is at Jack's place, telling him that there is room at her place for anything he wants to bring. Jack tells her that he doesn't know what he's bringing yet. He doesn't want to leave Molly and Tyrone with nothing. "Right, I've decided," he says suddenly. "They choose. It's only stuff, innit? And I'd rather know that me and our Vera's stuff is helping a new young family than helping me feel all maudlin on a rainy Tuesday afternoon." Isn't he just lovely? Connie agrees.

Kevin goes to see Molly in the shop. She is short with him and tells him that sometimes she thinks he doesn't care about her at all. Silly little girl. She reminds him about the last time they went away and he came back prepared to finish things with her. Kevin tells her that it's not like that anymore and tells her that if he could choose, he'd much rather be with Molly. "So choose," Molly challenges him. Kevin asks her if she's ready to tell Tyrone. Of course she's not. He tells her that he won't let the holiday spoil their special thing they have. He promises that they'll be able to get together before he leaves for the holiday.

Amber approaches Darryl on the bench in the street. She tells him that she isn't interested in Mitch and knows she shouldn't have snogged him. She tells him that she thinks they were so good together and she doesn't want things to end this way. Darryl knows what he wants- a new life. Amber asks him to come to London with her but he tells her he can't. When she asks why not, he answers, "Because me shift just started." He leaves Amber on the bench of tears, alone.

Peter comes into the Barlow house where he catches Blanche with her feet in the washing up bowl. He is a bit put off by this but Blanche insists her feet are clean. He asks Blanche for a favour- for her to mind Simon while he has Leanne over for dinner. He tells Blanche that he's sure that Leanne wants to give him another chance. Blanche takes pity on Peter and asks him if he thinks Simon would take a pumice to her scaly feet. "Yeah, I'm sure he would," says Simon and adds, "For £10 an hour!" Blanche seems to think this is a good deal and tells Peter to go and fetch him.

Audrey and Gail are in the Rovers. Audrey is having a go at Gail about Joe. She tells Gail how difficult she would find it to trust Joe after all of his lies. "He could be shooting up in the ginnel right now," she says, twisting the knife. Gail knows he isn't shooting up in the ginnel because Joe has walked into the pub behind Audrey's back. He mentions that he has a bit of work with Bill and has to be there by six. He kisses Gail and leaves again. "Of course," says Gail, "He and Bill could be up the ginnel smoking crack." Audrey concedes that Gail has made her point.

Poor Eileen. She's been on the phone to the insurance company and it seems they're not going to pay out since she "let the robber in." She sits at the table with Jesse and sighs, "Things are just getting worse!"

Molly and Tyrone come home to Jack and Connie at the dinner table. Jack tells them to sit down because there's something he wants to say. Tyrone jokes, "You've not got her pregnant, have you?" Jack announces that he is moving into Connie's on Friday. Tyrone seems stunned and wonders what the rush is. Jack goes on, "I want you two to have first dibs on everything in here...everything, your choice..... And it would be my honour to know that you two were starting out life together with me and our Vera's stuff." Molly is touched and gives Jack a hug. Jack goes on to tell them that he think Molly and Tyrone are made for each other and that he thinks they will be very happy for a very long time. Molly has a tear in her eye.

Leanne arrives for dinner at Peter's. Peter is anxious to be honest with Leanne and so has avoided a dark, romantic atmosphere with candles and the like. Leanne asks where Simon is. Peter takes the opportunity, after explaining that Blanche is teaching Simon how to pedicure, to tell her how much Simon loves her. He offers Leanne a drink but she refuses. Peter, thinking that it's because of his alcoholism, insists that it's ok for her to have a drink in front of him but Leanne refuses again and protests that she simply doesn't feel like a drink. Peter thinks that Leanne might be under the impression that he wants to get her drunk. Leanne tells him to calm down so that they can try to enjoy the evening.

Amber goes to see Darryl in the kebab shop. Darryl wonders if Amber is stalking him. "I'm hungry," she says. Darryl bars her from the shop. "You can't bar me, it's me dad's shop!" she reminds him. She asks Darryl how much he wants to hurt her. She wants the two of them to get back to how they were but Darryl doesn't agree. He says, "It's time to call it a day. We both know it. Different lives, different worlds. It's nobody's fault, it's just the way the cookie crumbles, I guess." He tells her this is the right time for them to move on but she can call him or text him now and then. Amber starts to cry quietly.

Peter is telling Leanne about her namesake, the rabbit. As he dishes up the dinner, he tells Leanne about Simon and how they connect now. He explains that the death of Leanne the Rabbit was more about Simon losing his mother than losing a pet. Leanne seems impressed by Peter's new-found fathering skills. "I didn't think you'd turn out to be such a great dad!" she says. Peter seems pleased with himself.

Joe comes home to Chez Platt where Gail is with her mother. Audrey asks what he was doing while he was out fitting the kitchen. Joe elaborates a little and hands Gail some of the cash he has earned in front of Audrey. Gail gladly accepts his contribution to the household and beams at Audrey who winds her neck in for now.

Peter sits down to coffee with Leanne. She asks when he redecorated the flat. Time for some more honesty. Peter tells her about the fire. When Leanne looks shocked, Peter is surprised that nobody told her. He tells her how his rock bottom was when poor wee Simon was lying in hospital with tubes all over him. Leanne looks sad, disappointed and horrified all at once. "'I bet you're regretting that total honesty plan now," he says.

Ryan meets Michelle out of a cab in front of the kebab shop. They are about to move into a flat above the kebab shop. Ryan wonders if his mum is sure that she wants to live there. Michelle says that if she doesn't get a job soon, she won't even be able to afford to live there. Ryan thinks that getting a job won't be a problem since Peter Barlow fancies her. He points out that Peter Barlow's light is on and she should call on him now, to see if he has a job for her. Michelle would rather get in their flat. Ryan picks up his (apparently empty, given the ease with which he and Michelle are carrying them) mother's suitcase (they appear to be brand new, Michelle's cases, but don't have any wheels on them... Hmmmmm... am I being picky?) and they both head up to their new abode.

Leanne and Peter, are we sick of them yet? Oh, and Peter, please, get a haircut! That hairdo makes you look so hard and way older! Anyway, they have moved to the sofa. Leanne asks Peter how many other women there have been and if she knows any of them. Peter omits to mention Michelle but does tell Leanne about Naomi and how Simon vetoed her. Leanne asks him if there's anything else he should tell her. "Yeah," he says, moving in closer, "this is the big one, ok?" He asks her to promise when he tells her, that she won't walk out on him. Leanne won't make such a promise but he goes on anyway. "I love the bones of you," Peter says and I feel slightly queasy. "I know that I messed up but we had something, you and me..." Leanne interrupts and tells Peter she's had enough. She moves, looks as though she's getting ready to leave. Peter pleads with her not to go. Aha! Leanne has fooled him. "Who said anything about going?" she asks and she moves in for a snog. Peter is pathetically grateful and is about to tell Leanne how much he wanted this but Leanne, thankfully, stops him from saying anything else. They start to kiss again. Ewww!

Stella McLoughlin

Peter asks Leanne how she likes her eggs, and she says that he takes a lot for granted. He says she can't leave now, not after last night. She reminds him that she's got a boyfriend back in Leeds (or so she's telling him, anyway!) He tells her that losing her was the biggest mistake he ever made and he doesn't want to let that happen again.

Sally is getting the suitcases ready for their holiday. Kevin wonders why she's doing it so early, they don't leave until tomorrow evening. She tells him they have to check in by 3 pm, and there's lots to do, washing, ironing etc. She's taking tomorrow morning off work and she thinks he should too. "Me?" he cries, and she tells him they have to get currency. He says they can get it in the airport, or when they get to Lanzarote. He asks why she can't do all the work this evening, but she informs him that they're having a meal with Sophie and Rosie. "Since when?" he asks, aghast. "Since I decided," she tells him, adding that they won't see the girls for two weeks, "or do your daughters not matter to you?" She then goes off to get milk for breakfast and Kevin is quick to pick up his phone and book a hotel room for tomorrow. "What's the earliest I can check in?" he asks.

Simon wakes up and is delighted to find Leanne in the flat. "Are you going to live with us?" he asks. She tells him, "One thing at a time!" and Peter says that it's just breakfast today. Leanne says she has a job in Leeds so Simon tells her to get one round there. Simon then asks Peter if the reason he had to stay with Nanny Blanche was because he had Leanne to stay over. Peter tells him to eat his egg. Then Simon tells Leanne that she's much nicer than Naomi – and Michelle! Peter hurriedly tries to say that Simon means when Michelle worked at the bookies. Simon then looks very confused. "What?" he asks, but before he can say any more Peter tells him to hurry up or he'll be late for school.

Luke and Sophie are walking to work. He starts talking about the business, remarking that turnover is up. "What's turnover?" she asks. He explains, but she says: "Oh, like profit?" He explains further about profit, overheads and plant. Sophie then starts thinking about garden plants, but even that is too much for her overtaxed brain and she goes back to familiar ground. "I couldn't decide whether to wear this top or my red one with these leggings!" They then run into Michelle and Luke asks when she got back. Grinning, she tells him she got back last night and the tour was brilliant. "All right Rosie?" she asks, "how's business?" Rosie does not look happy. "Turnover's holding up quite well, actually." She takes Luke's arm. "Come on Luke, let's go and open up that plant!"

Norris takes a call from the funeral director. Apparently Ramsay's body has arrived back and all the arrangements are in hand. All they have to do is turn up at the church. Emily says she'll phone round all the people who she thinks might like to go and Norris retorts that should take all of five minutes. She tells him he might be surprised, Ramsay had made a lot of friends while he was there.

Kevin goes into the shop and asks Molly what she's doing tomorrow at dinner time. She tells him she'll be having her dinner. "Not any more, you're not," he says. Just then Sally walks in and wonders what he's doing there as he told her he was rushed off his feet. He says he was just getting a packet of biscuits, and she says she's there for sun tan lotion. Molly says she's lucky to be going on holiday. "I can't wait," says Sally. "Sun, sand, sea and something else beginning with s if Kevin is a good boy!" She then tells Kevin to pay for the sun lotion and off she goes. Alone again, Kevin tells Molly it's the same hotel as last time and he'll pick her up at the end of Crimea Street at quarter to twelve. "So I get an hour and she gets two weeks," says Molly, bitterly. He tells her this is all they can do at the minute, he'd far rather be going away with her. "Please don't say you can't come tomorrow," he says. "I'll be there," says Molly.

Outside, Leanne bumps into Michelle who says that now the tour is over she needs to get a job quick. Leanne tells her that Peter needs someone in the bookies. "Oh, have you seen him since you got back?" asks Michelle. Leanne says that she has. "But you're not together are you?" asks Michelle, frowning. Leanne smiles. "It's on the cards, but don't worry, he told me what happened. He told me it was a bit of fun more than anything." Michelle looks relieved and tells her she's right, and also she had to go on tour so that was the end of it. Leanne's face has turned to stone, and a confused Michelle asks, "Why? What did he tell you?" Leanne tells her Peter didn't tell her anything and marches off towards the bookies, looking furious!

Peter's first reaction is to ask who told her. She says it was Michelle herself. "I thought she was away," says Peter. "Well she's back," snaps Leanne, "I'll go and get her for you if you like!" He tells her he doesn't want Michelle, he wants her, but she retorts that she doesn't want him, not now. "I must have been mad to think that you could change!" and goes on to call him a compulsive liar, a compulsive cheat and a compulsive scumbag – and they're finished!

Eileen's at home in her kitchen when she hears a noise outside. Opening the door she finds John, the macaw standing there. She mutters that she thought she'd got rid of him and stares at the knife in her hand for a moment, but then hears Jesse come in the front door as the bird walks past her into the house. Of course Jesse's delighted that his pet has returned and Eileen has to force a smile and pretend to be pleased too.

Michelle arrives at the bookies. "You didn't waste much time, did you?" snaps Peter, "who else have you been telling tales to?" Michelle tries to say that it wasn't her fault, Leanne had trapped her by saying she knew about them. She adds that if Peter hadn't told her then that was his problem. He then apologises and she asks why he hadn't told Leanne about them. He says he didn't get a chance. (Yeah, right!) "In other words you bottled it!" she says, summing it up nicely. She says she's come to see if her old job was still going but he says he couldn't take her back on while there was still a chance that Leanne might come back. "If she goes back to Leeds, then maybe," he says. She tells him he's all heart.

Janice arrives back at her flat to find Leanne demanding to know why she didn't tell her about the fire at the bookies. Janice can't think why Leanne would want to know about Peter Barlow after she'd dumped him. Leanne mutters that she might bump into him. "Oh, and here's me thinking you'd come to see me!" says Janice, adding that she didn't tell her because she didn't want Leanne running back feeling sorry for him. She deserves better. Leanne tells her he'd told her he stopped drinking because of her but really it was because he nearly killed Simon, and he'd lied to her about sleeping with Michelle. Janice starts to say that everything that comes out of Peter's mouth is a lie when the doorbell rings. They ignore it but then hear Peter's voice calling from outside in the street. Leanne goes to the window and tells him to go away or she'll call the police. He says he just wants a chance to explain. "What's the point when all you do is lie?" she says. He says he didn't tell her because he didn't want to lose her. "Well you've lost me now so bog off!" she yells. As he stands there begging her to give him five minutes, a lot of vegetables come raining down upon him. Then an egg breaks on his head and after telling him again to leave her alone, Leanne slams the window shut.

In the Kabin, Emily tells Norris that she's phoned round and everyone said they would try to make the funeral. He thinks they're just saying that. She says that Liz is going to lay on some sandwiches and she's agreed an order of service with the vicar. All that remains is the eulogy. Norris thinks the vicar can do it, but Emily asks if he would like to do it. "After all, you are his nearest relative," she says. Norris is furious. "I hardly knew the man!" he cries. Just then Tyrone comes in and Emily tells him about the funeral, but he says he'll have a lot of work on with Kevin being away. She tells him they'll be at the Rovers later and he says he'll be there anyway for Jack's farewell do, so he'll raise a glass to Ramsay at the same time. "He was a top man!" After Tyrone's gone, Emily points out that a lot of people thought highly of Ramsay and a lot of people would be coming to the funeral and would expect more than the usual rent-a-tribute. Eventually, Norris says that he'll try and put something together, but can't promise that it will be any good.

Blanche has made strawberry blancmange for Simon. "Strawberry what?" he asks, and then asks his dad if Leanne will be waiting at home for them. "I'm not sure son," says Peter, adding that he's got one or two things to sort out. When Simon's gone off to watch tv, Blanche asks if there's anything amiss with Leanne. He tells her he omitted one tiny detail of confession, and she says that the devil is often in the detail with a woman. "How bad is it? Lover's tiff or nuclear winter?" she asks. Peter says he thinks he's blown it. They look at Simon. "Just when he's getting happy again, when will you learn?" she asks.

Tyrone gets in from work and Molly casually mentions that she has a yoga class tomorrow at 12 o'clock. He's aghast and says she can't go, they're have a few drinks in the Rovers to say goodbye to Jack. She says that no one told her. "We decided today," he says. She tries to say she's booked the class now but he tells her to cancel it. "You don't want to miss Jack's farewell drinks, do you?" He says she can do yoga any other day. She mutters that she supposes so. "No problem then!" he says.

Michelle walks into the Rovers and Luke offers to buy her a drink. She declines, saying that they wouldn't want his other half finding out and getting all jealous. She comments that as they're still together, Rosie's bank balance must still be healthy. "Michelle, how could you!" he grins, but then Rosie walks in. As Sean passes Michelle the drink she ordered, Rosie cries, "And a spritzer for me!" Michelle tells her that actually, she bought her drink herself, but graciously orders one for Rosie, but Rosie turns to Luke and suggests they go back to the flat. "No offence Michelle, but when you've been running a business all day your head needs a rest." "Some heads more than others," mutters Michelle as Rosie leads Luke away.

Blanche sees Leanne at the bus stop and tells her she doesn't blame her for leaving, in fact she's surprised she gave him a second chance at all. "What you've got to decide is if he's an out and out bad ‘un or does he just let himself down cos he's a touch feckless at times?" she says, adding that he does try his best as a rule. She then tells Leanne that if she's leaving she must make sure it's forever, as it's not just him and her in the equation now, there's Simon too, and he thinks the world of her. Leanne says she can't let that stop her, but Blanche says that if she keeps stepping in and out of Simon's life he won't know where he is, with no real mother to call his own, he could be seriously damaged. She knows that Leanne feels she could kill Peter, but reckons that deep down she has feelings for him. "Whatever you decide, make sure it's final," she says, "for everyone's sake."

Anne Logan

Hello, and welcome to Friday night.

We open at the Websters' where Sally is directing the packing. Sophie's annoyed that Sally's asked Rosie to keep an eye on her. Kev gets a text message from Molly asking to see him but Sally won't let Kevin out of the house.

Jack's going through all his stuff and advises Tyrone to never ever put anything in the loft because he'll never use it. Tyrone heads off to work leaving jack going through an old photo album.

Dev's off to the wholesalers. Amber tells Molly she's all set to go off to Uni. She says Darryl dumped her. Before Molly can find out more, Kevin comes in. Molly, on the pretext of showing him ready meals, tells him Tyrone wants to go for a drink with Jack before he leaves, so she can't make their meeting. Kevin pleads and she relents.

Emily has a lovely wreath of Roses. She says Ramsay thought roses symbolised England. Norris, polishing his shoes, says nothing. Rita asks if he's giving the eulogy. Norris says he's saying a few quick words. No Corrie funeral would be complete without Blanche, and here she is! She's come to show her support, she says. "Will there be any food afterwards?"

Kevin gets a call at the garage. Molly says she needs a strong man to come and help her. She thinks her spark plugs need reigniting. Kevin says he'll come and check it over. He hangs up and tells Tyrone he's off on a breakdown job the other side of Manchester. He assures Ty he's got plenty of time to get back. Tyrone says that if it's a woman she's probably just run out of petrol and Kevin will be back before he knows it.

Simon wants to go and see Leanne. Peter tells him No, because Simon's got a cold. Under close questioning (Why? Why?) Peter admits that Leanne's going back to Leeds.

The funeral cars have arrived. Emily gives the funeral director the flowers to put in with the coffin. Blanche cross-examines Emily about what kind of coffin it is. Rita calls for Norris. He seems shocked at the sight of the hearse. "You go without me," he tells Emily. He says he's got no right going. He barely knew the man. Rita and Emily follow him back inside.

Blanche is a bit slow getting back inside and listens as Emily tries to persuade Norris not to turn his back on Ramsay in death as well as in life. Emily says he's selfish. Rita suggests Emily and Blanche go and wait in the car. "I'm fine where I am," says Blanche. She's sent out anyway so Rita can talk some sense into Norris. Rita says Ramsay would have wanted Norris there. Norris says funerals are used too often as a salve for conscience. He says he only feels guilty because Rita and Emily made him. He says that by dying, Ramsay got the ultimate revenge. But Rita suggests he's been punishing himself. Norris says he's just being honest. "Well, if you can't do it for him. Maybe you can do it for Emily." Norris thinks he's being guilt tripped. Rita says he's right. But Emily did feel something for Ramsay. Right now she's hurting and she needs them.

Simon rings Leanne's doorbell and greets her before his dad pops his head round the corner. Leanne tells him to stop using Simon like that. He's bought replacement groceries for Janice.

Molly and Kevin are in a hotel room taking off some of their clothing and kissing. Molly is offended when he looks at his watch and gets him to take it off.

Janice appreciates the groceries. "You can go now," she tells Peter. Leanne asks her to take Simon for a milkshake. She tells Peter he has five minutes.

There are lots and lots of people outside the church and Norris is surprised. Emily's been talking to Ramsay's former landlady. A group of men comprises members of the cricket club. Norris didn't even know Ramsay was into cricket. Blanche is impressed at the turnout but worried the food might run out. Norris says that's the only reason she's there, but Blanche says she liked Ramsay. The only criticism she has is that Norris was his brother.

Peter tells Leanne he's never been good at long-term relationships. He was scared of committing until he met Leanne. He's tried to talk himself out of it with the odd fling, but it's Leanne he wants to be with. Leanne suggests he needs someone to look after Simon. Peter explains just how sexist that is. Simon was a wake-up call. "He made me realise what a waste my life had been up until then." Maybe it was Simon who made him realise he needed to settle down. "But it's you I want to do it with." He says he's going now, "and if I don't see you again, you have a great life." Leanne avoids his goodbye kiss and looks very thoughtful as he closes the door behind him.

Molly sticks her head out from under the sheets and sees the clock. It's 1pm. She says nothing.

Sally's going berserk at Tyrone because Kevin's phone's turned off.

Peter is encouraging Simon to bet away his Smarties, taking five as a bet on a horse. He says that if Leanne was going to stay they would have heard by now.

Amber's putting her bags into a taxi. Dev gives her a last-minute lecture. She promises to keep her head down. They hug. Amber looks almost tearful. Dev sniffs, but then he could just be doing that because he knows that's what people would expect. Everything is for effect with him. Amber does the looking back from the taxi thing and weeps.

Leanne goes around to the bookies' and tells Peter she's come to let him know she's going to go and have a great life. "Fair enough," he says. "With you!" she tells him. Peter is astounded. He leaps the counter to hug her. They say they love each other. She confesses she finished with the other boyfriend some time ago. Simon comes out and gets into the hugging.

Tyrone arrives back to find Jack still organising. He's got Vera's urn on the table, along with Fergie, the stuffed pigeon. He's got piles of stuff sorted. He remembers Vera had a row with Hilda Ogden before they even set foot in the house. They were there for 21 years. "Happy days! Well, not all of ‘em," he corrects himself. Tyrone tries to ring Molly.

In the hotel, Molly looks at the phone and tells Kevin it's Tyrone. He realises it's 1.56pm and leaps out of bed. He was supposed to be back by 2pm. "Why didn't you tell me?" he asks. "I didn't know," lies Molly. Urging her to hurry, he drags his clothes on as fast as he can.

The End of episode one.
Coming soon to a screen near you: Episode Two.

Margaret Carr

We're back and Tyrone is fuming by Molly's absence as Jack gathers the rest of his belongings. Jack tells him they have plenty of time. There's a knock at the door and Tyrone hopes that it is Molly but it's only Connie.

Sally is rushing around at the Webster household getting the last of the things ready and desperate to know where Kevin is. Ben offers to go and check the garage.

Kevin impulsively suggests to Molly that they stay at the hotel and get back into bed. Molly readily agrees. "You wouldn't" Kevin says. Molly tells him she would but that she knows he wouldn't- as he has a wife waiting to take him on holiday.

Eileen is miserably regretting being honest with the insurance company about the break out and glumly asks Lloyd and Claire to tell her about whatever is on telly tonight as she won't be watching. As she leaves Lloyd gets a bright idea.

Molly and Kevin's van has refused to start. As Kevin works on it, Molly phones an unhappy Tyrone to tell him she is on her way but she has lost track of time. She rushes back over to Kevin in a panicky state but he reminds her that he is the one going on holiday. As she hurries him along, he assures her that he will fix it if she just lets him get on with it.

The funeral is over and Blanche, Norris, Emily, Rita and Pam are sitting at a table, Blanche munching on a free sandwich. Rita congratulates Norris on the moving speech he made. Blanche asks Emily why she didn't say anything and she replies that she didn't trust herself to.

Jack is looking at Vera's urn reflectively and he tells Connie he doesn't know what to do with her. Connie tells him she knows what he wants to do...bring Vera with him. And she never expected him to do otherwise. Tyrone comes through and confirms that Molly is on her way so they can leave for the pub now.

Over at the pub, Blanche admits that funerals make you think about your own and what people would say about you. "He was a man who faced life's misfortunes without complaint and a ready smile" Norris says. His friends look on aghast as he confirms he is talking about himself.

Tyrone tells Liz that it's Jack's last day but Jack berates him for making it sound like he is at death's door. Liz tells Jack that no matter where he is, he will always be an honorary local of the Rovers.

Steve is asking Claire to choose between two hideous radios. When she picks the one she would prefer if she had to choose, he bins it and grabs the other.

Meanwhile, Ben returns saying Kevin is nowhere to be found. Sally is worried and as Sophie defends Kevin Sally tells her that the longer you spend with someone, the less you know what is going on in their head.

Kevin and Molly arrive back on the Street. As Molly climbs out of the van, she tells Kevin to have a brilliant time.

Steve, Lloyd and Claire turn up at Eileen's armed with various electrical junk items. Steve tells a baffled Eileen that they have clubbed together with things they don't want anymore but she may have a use for. Jesse points out that if the TV is not digital then it won't work. Eileen loses her patience and tells them they can't just bring their junk round and expect her to live in a rubbish tip. She sends them away and Jesse says they must think she has no standards. She is clearly miffed but they return holding a widescreen TV wrapped in a bow and say they have clubbed together. Shocked, she feels guilty about saying bad things but Lloyd points out that they knew she would. Tearfully she thanks them.

Kevin finally returns home and Sally demands to know where he has been. He tells her he has been out earning a living like he does everyday. He moves to embrace her. She withdraws saying he isn't going anywhere looking like that.

Molly arrives and apologises to Jack. He tells her not to be sorry and she asks if they are ready to go. A worse for wear Emily and Rita come to say goodbye and Connie tells them to visit anytime. Jack is clearly less than impressed by this gesture. After they leave, Jack reflects on the time he and Vera ran the place.

Liz tells Steve that as he and Becky are going away next week he needs to arrange cover. Steve remembers passing Leanne in the Street earlier and gets her on the phone. He asks her if she could do two weeks behind the bar and she says she will think about it. Simon tells her she could be a teacher or a lollipop lady instead.

Rita is wondering why she is still working at the shop when other people her age have retired. Norris tells her she will feel differently in the morning but she assures him that she won't. Emily leaves to go upstairs and Rita tells Norris that she needs some more time. Norris reminds Rita that life does go on.

Leanne asks Peter if she is going to regret his decision. Peter assures her that he won't hurt her again. Simon comes through with a football and Leanne heads off to change her shoes.

Jack is saying goodbye to Tyrone and Molly but Molly is concentrating on watching Kevin climb into a taxi across the road. Jack tells Molly and Tyrone that they must look after each other before he heads off with a sad backwards look at the house he lived in for 21 years. Molly turns on Tyrone saying no one else minded that she was late. Tyrone reminds her that she promised to be on time and she asks what she is being accused of. He replies that she is making everyone feel miserable and if she doesn't start making an effort then Jack won't be the only one who is leaving.

So what did we learn tonight?

-Kevin and Sally only use travel pillows once a year
-Kevin owns some hideous bright orange shorts
-Dev has special offers on ready meals
-Oak finish is a more sensible coffin choice than solid oak
-You don't reignite spark plugs
-Everybody likes lollipop ladies

Dubious Quotes

Sentiment that came too late: "I don't want to be a hypocrite" Norris
Question which if asked to the viewers would get the most negative response: "Am I boring you?" Molly
Biggest understatement: "I've never been much good at long term relationships" Peter
Most questionable remark: "I've always been scared to commit" Peter, who at one stage was married to two women
Question most accidentally close to the truth: "Where is he? Under a car somewhere?" Sally about Kevin. Not under a car, no...
Biggest hypocrite: "you've never had a brilliant idea in your life," Steve to Lloyd
Second biggest hypocrite: "you're always complaining" Blanche to Norris
Most surreal storyline twist: "I don't know what to say" Eileen

Thanks for reading!
Duncan Lindsay

Written by Debbie Oates, directed by Tim Dowd

Norris is sucking up to Emily this morning, he's made her some toast but she's intent on getting off to her good works, trying to get back to a normal routine. Clearly she's avoiding Norris. She leaves without the scarf she'd come into the room to find. She crosses the road and Sophie comes up to her and asks how the funeral went. She answers briefly but hurries off. Back on the other side, Morose Molly comes out of Number 9. Tyrone rushes out after her and she's immediately defensive when all he wanted was to get more than two words out of her. She smiles and says good bye again and kisses him on the cheek and turns her back on him again. Sounds like she's giving him the silent treatment and he has no idea why. He offers to cook her something for dinner. She's hesitant and he apologizes again because he was upset after Jack left but now they've got the house to themselves. That thought doesn't seem to thrill Molly as much as it might have done a few months ago but he persists in his offer to cook so she says ok.

Behind Tyrone, Julie catches up with Fiz on the way to work. She's dismayed because Fizz *still* hasn't told Chesney about getting married and the wedding is next week! She protests that she just didn't find the time and Ches was hardly home all weekend so she promises to do it at tea time. Julie looks dubious.

In the betting shop, Leanne has brought cakes for her and Peter. Steve bounces in to find out if Leanne will work behind the bar for 2 weeks. She's still thinking about it, she says and Peter figures she's too good to work behind a bar. Anyway, Steve wants an answer later today and bounces back out. Leanne remarks that she'll have to ring round some restaurants to see if she can find something. (Personally, I don't see how waiting tables is any different from barmaiding, seems like one job is about equal to the other really and nowt wrong with either.) Peter offers her a job in the betting shop (and that's so much more upscale, yes?) but Leanne rejects it as they wouldn't get on. They bicker about that point which proves her point.

Emily has returned from work. Norris rushes over to find out why she's come home and lets her in as she's forgotten her key. He's fussing for England and it's driving her spare and she finally shouts at him to let her be.

Molly pours out a bucket of water, having washed the floor to clean up a mess. Her mobile rings and it's Kevin calling from his holiday. He's found time for a sneaky call and promises to call for longer later when Sally's having a massage. They whisper "miss you" and she goes back inside the shop.

In the Kabin, Audrey asks after an absent Rita who is tired today. Tina reckons she can't wait to retire which surprises Audrey. Norris comes in scowling and picks on Tina for putting out chocolate that's out of date. Turns out he's blaming this "Ramsay saga" for putting both Rita and Emily out of sorts, calling it moping. (oh someone smack him!) Audrey chides him and thinks he should leave them be which sends him into cascades of sarcasm. "Club Mope's motto!" He goes into the back and Tina tells Audrey he's doing her head in. Mine and all.

Becky is running down a mental list of clothes to pack for their belated honeymoon. Lloyd is listening patiently (He's definitely lost weight!) and then asks where this contest-won honeymoon is. Spetses is the name of the island but Lloyd reckons it's made up and she could find out it's all a scam like one of his mates had happen to him because he didn't read the fine print. No asterisks in the add? Asterisks mean small print and his mate ended up in a hotel in Milton Keynes with the same name as the resort he'd thought he'd won. This, of course, sends Becky running off in a panic after he points out she's not seen the tickets yet (they are meeting a representative at the airport).

Julie and Fiz dodge a blue streak that is Becky running home. Fiz is heading into town to go dress shopping. Kirk asks for a few quid for chips and Fiz takes the opportunity to tell Kirk that the wedding is next week in prison but she's not told Chesney yet so he is to keep his mouth shut.

Audrey brings a bit of lunch to Emily to cheer her up. She's very down and even though the idea of criticizing Norris as fun for everyone raises a brief smile, she does say that she'd told him she thinks things should return to normal but it's harder than she thought. Audrey is very sympathetic, knowing how Emily felt about Ramsay. Emily admits she's not slept much and goes in to make some tea for them, being near tears and not wanting to spill over, I think.

In the pub back room, Becky is poring over the contest ad looking for asterisks. Liz enters and asks about the rota so Steve says that Leanne has agreed to cover, almost. Liz is not going to take him at his word. "Not until I see the whites of her eyes" she offers. Becky gasps and thinks she sees an asterisk through the magnifying glass but Steve thinks it looks more like a dead midge. He pulls her away from the table to go to the phone and they're going to ring up.

Back to Emily, Audrey is asking her about what she thought about while laying sleepless. Emily was trying to think of the nice things that came out of the whole situation, things like friendship and comfort. The thing that is really bothering her though is the idea that most of her loved ones have already died and gone to the afterlife, and now Ramsay. Audrey understands. She wants to be with them. Emily is feeling very lonely and finding it difficult to pick up and carry on and then feels guilty for feeling like that. She breaks down a bit and said she keeps thinking it's just not fair! Audrey reaches out to hold her hand in comfort.

Now, to lighten things up a bit, Molly has arrived home for her dinner to a table set with china and wine glasses and even a rose and candles. Over by the kitchen stands Tyrone wearing a full length pinnie. And nothing else other than a big smile. She's a bit stunned. He wanted to do something they couldn't do with Jack around and goes to get the wine out of the fridge, exposing his cheeky side which, thankfully, is off camera. Molly laughs and thinks she sees a tattoo but it's just newsprint from the racing form he'd sat on earlier. He opens the small bottle of sparking wine and she laughs. They toast their house and themselves.

Ches has come home at dinner to fetch his PE gear but they have been washed but not dried and are soaking wet. He's on the phone to Fiz hollering and objecting strongly when she suggests he wear his older set. He hollers at her some more just as Kirk comes home. Kirk assumes that his anger is to do with Fiz' news about the upcoming wedding and proceeds to let the cat out of the bag. Oops! Chesney storms out of the house. Oh dear.

After the break, we're in the factory where Chesney has charged in to find Fiz. Kirk has come in behind him. Chesney is hugely rude to Rosie and Luke both, calling Rosie a stupid cow. Rosie goes into a hair flipping frenzy and Luke doesn't even chide Chesney for his attitude. Fiz isn't there (she's gone shopping, remember?) and Kirk follows Chesney out after apologizing to Luke himself.

Outside, Liz has met up with Michelle and is offering her the bar job for two weeks. Michelle is not sure it is a very wise move. Liz does everything she can to persuade Michelle and she finally agrees. Luke has emerged from the factory with a few flirtatious words. She tells him about her job and how her Ex will be furious which is probably why she agreed! Luke says he'll see her there!

In the corner shop, Molly is texting someone. Tyrone comes in and pretends to strip out of his overalls but he does have a string vest at least under. He says "there is nothing sexy about getting under a Volvo... commando". He only came in to tell her he loved her, and kisses her across the counter. He leaves and Luke and Rosie arrive as does Lloyd. Rosie wants a night out but Luke draws Lloyd into his excuse saying they are going to a darts night, right Lloyd? (Lloyd must get tired of being everyone's cover story!) Luke spouts some nonsense about them needing space to keep the relationship fresh and she buys it. She totters off and Molly calls Luke on his sneaky move. He counters with a question, don't she and Tyrone do things apart from each other and they still care about each other, don't they? Molly's phone rings and it's Kevin. We can see that but of course Luke can't. And, by the way, the phone only shows K calling not the full name. Molly doesn't take the call and serves Lloyd who's come up to the till.

Lloyd leaves and outside, Becky comes straight for him, screaming and beating on him with the rolled up holiday brochure for winding her up. He manages to get into the cab relatively unscathed, laughing.

Fiz has bought a lovely pair of white shoes while out shopping and is showing them to Julie. She still didn't get a dress but Julie assures her. If they find the right dress and they don't match the shoes, they'll just change the shoes! She admits she's bit excited but will relax more when she's told Chesney who comes in just then. The Shoes are hidden in the shopping bag quickly. He grabs the bag from Julie and confronts Fiz with the truth. He's so angry that he throws the shoe at an ornament which shatters and he charges upstairs while Fiz is sputtering about trying to tell him before. Too little, too late.

Emily arrives at the Kabin and apologizes for snapping at Emily. Tina urges Norris to apologize too. He does but it's a bit half hearted, and not very sincere, wishing that Ramsay wouldn't hover over them all indefinitely. (The funeral was what? 2 days ago?) Tina doesn't let him off the hook but Emily knows that's as good as she's going to get and figures she'll be better with a good night's sleep. The phone rings and Norris goes to answer it. Tina leaves for the day. The call is for Norris but it seems to have upset him.

In the pub, Leanne has come in for a drink but isn't there to work. Steve is disappointed and then shocked when Liz and Michelle come in and finds out that Michelle is the temporary barmaid. Leanne must have been close to agreeing but won't work with Michelle now. Steve and Liz bicker a bit but Liz pulls rank as manager. Michelle stays, much to Leanne's chagrin.

Back to the Kabin, Norris finally admits that the call was from Ramsay's solicitor. Ramsay has left him everything including a package that's being delivered now. He doesn't want it!

Stay tuned for the next part when we find out what the inheritance is.

Tvor

In the Kabin, Emily is questioning Norris about what Ramsay's solicitor told him. Norris has been left £127,000 by Ramsay in his will. "I didn't know he'd made a will, never mind left me all he had!" exclaims Norris. He wonders why Ramsay didn't leave his money to anyone else. Emily assures Norris that Ramsay had other people to leave his money to but even after all these years and the estrangement, Ramsay considered Norris his family. Emily urges Norris to close the Kabin up but Norris says he needs time to think. Norris then tells Emily that she can expect a package of Ramsay's effects to be delivered. Before she leaves, Emily tells Norris that Ramsay cared very deeply for him, "because you were his brother."

At the Websters', Sophie and Ben are looking through the internet, thinking of things Emily could do on a trip to Australia to help cheer her up after losing Ramsay. Rosie is trying to listen to Jeremy Kyle on the TV and looks impatient. Rosie asks her sister what she's doing. Sophie asks Rosie if she remembers the bloke Emily fancied before he died. "What, Norris?" says Rosie, showing just how self-obsessed she is. Rosie takes the mickey out of Sophie for trying to do something nice for somebody else. Sophie tells her, "Just so you know, I'm praying for you. We both are."

Steve is trying to pack the car for his and Becky's honeymoon while Becky stands smoking and complaining about Liz having hired Michelle to work behind the bar while they are away. "She's the one with the over made-up head and that tatty weave," she moans at her new husband, "her and Michelle. They both are, they're like a couple of pussycat trolls!" She claims Liz has ruined her honeymoon since she will be plagued by a picture of the two of them laughing at her behind her back the whole time she is away.

Fizz is in the prison, talking to John about her wedding day. John tells her that he can't believe that they are getting married since 6 months ago he was at rock bottom. He asks Fizz again if she is still glad to be marrying him etc. Fizz says of course she is, despite getting married in prison but she starts to make excuses for Chesney, claiming that he has to be at school on their wedding day which is why he won't be attending the ceremony. John, being a teacher and all, tells her that it should be OK for Ches to take the day off school but he doesn't pick up on Fizz's uncomfortable vibe.

Sophie and Ben are round at Emily's to show her all the work they put into the idea of Emily going on a holiday to Australia. Emily is touched by what they have done and is very pleased to meet Ben. Ben tells Emily that Sophie has something to ask Emily and gets up to answer the door for Emily. Sophie has been thinking of getting baptized and she would like Emily to say something about her at her baptism. Emily would be honoured but she starts to cry. Ben tells Emily that something has been delivered. It's a trunk of Ramsay's belongings.

Luke is playing darts in the Rovers. He and Michelle start flirting and Michelle shows off her skill at the oche. He asks Michelle when she has a break. Michelle tells him it's in a couple of hours and that she can buy her a white wine and a packet of crisps. Rosie comes into the pub and sees that Luke is not off playing darts in the Weatherfield Arms with Lloyd after all. She starts to snog him while Michelle heads back behind the bar. Liz comes out to tell Michelle that Becky has dragged Steve off to the airport 4 hours before they are due to take off on their honeymoon because Becky's sulking that Liz hired Michelle in the bar. "She's sulking... she's taken offence so I don't get to say goodbye to my own son! Fine way to start a marriage, this is." says Liz, all passive-aggressively. Michelle merely rolls her eyes.

Norris is still beavering away in the Kabin, avoiding going home to open the trunk of Ramsay's things. Emily comes in to try to persuade him to come home but he quite clearly doesn't want to face it.

John asks Fizz to write her own vows. He also wants to know if Chesney is not coming to the wedding because Fizz doesn't want him to come to the prison. Fizz grabs this lifeline John has thrown her with some relief and says tells him that's it, she doesn't want Chesney to see any of the prison. John scuppers this though by explaining that he has already spoken to the chaplain and knows that the guests will be taken straight to the chapel, won't get even a glimpse of the prison and the governor will make sure that Chesney will be put at ease. John is excited to think that soon the three of them will be a family.

Rosie is wittering on at Luke Strong in the Rovers. She wants to come round to Luke's tonight but Luke tries to put her off. In fact, he offers to walk her home there and then. He has no interest in seeing Rosie tonight but of course, he doesn't actually say that to her. Coward.

Emily and Norris are looking at the trunk of Ramsay's things. Norris doesn't want to open it because, as he tells Emily, he hardly knew Ramsay. Norris wonders, "So why has he left me everything he had? I don't want it, I don't need it." Once again Emily tells him that Ramsay loved him as a brother and that Norris should stop nudging him away. Norris thinks that Ramsay should have left everything to Emily.

Luke has walked Rosie home. He is desperate to get away from her but Rosie is not letting him go that easily. She drags him inside as Luke looks longingly towards the Rovers.

Fizz comes home to find Kirk sitting on the sofa. He asks Fizz if she had a good visit and tries to apologise for telling Chesney that Fizz was marrying John in the prison on Monday. Fizz is upset that this, which is supposed to be the happiest time of her life, has seen her lying to her friends and family. When Kirk asks her if he can do anything to help she tells him to "Just leave me alone!" Poor Kirk.

Norris is trying to have a bit of toast quietly at the dinner table while Ramsay's trunk sits ominously in the corner.

Emily and Rita are having a drink in the Rovers. Emily is bemoaning Norris's continual rejection of Ramsay, even in Ramsay's death. She thinks she can understand why. Rita can see her friend always manages to find the good in people but she agrees that Norris has been affected by Ramsay's death and she can quite clearly see that Emily has been profoundly affected too. Emily mentions bursting into tears earlier when Sophie asked her to speak at her baptism; Emily felt that somebody valued her which is why she got emotional. Rita assures Emily that many people value her; Rita, Norris and Ramsay valued her too.

Luke comes back into the Rovers, sniffing about Michelle again. He wonders if he missed her break. It turn out he hasn't and he orders that drink and bag of ready salted crisps.

Rosie and Sophie are having some sister time. Sophie asks Rosie how she knows if she is in love. She wants to know how it feels to be in love. Rosie thinks she is in love with Luke and perhaps might like to marry him one day. "I like the way he talks, he knows about stuff, he's been places, he's really funny." Sophie thinks she might be in love with Ben. Rosie asks her sister exactly why she is going to church; she thinks Sophie might be doing it just to make Ben like her. Sophie is quite mature though and answers that she likes the way going to church and the bible makes her feel. She feels like Jesus is talking directly and only to her. Rosie wonders how Sophie feels about all the rules church imposes on you- not having sex, for example. Sophie tells her, "God doesn't make you stick to rules. It's your own free will. Like, I could go out tomorrow and nick something but then, how would I feel after it? There's no point in putting yourself through it." Rosie tells Sophie that she doesn't like it when Sophie tells her that she is praying for her. She thinks that Sophie feels Rosie is a bad person. Sophie says she only prays for Rosie because she is her sister. The girls then turn to the TV and make disparaging remarks about how fat some celebrity is. So you know, it's not all shining halos for Miss Sophie.

At the dinner table, Norris tells Emily that he has come to a decision about Ramsay's trunk. He wants to give it and all of the contents to Emily's charity shop. And furthermore, he doesn't want Ramsay's money. Emily tries to protest but Norris becomes a bit agitated. "Why won't you take a blind bit of notice of what I want? You're so wrapped up in what Ramsay would have wanted and his last wishes but you obviously don't care about my wishes. I don't want his money. I don't want his old trunk and I never wanted him as a brother either. Please, just leave me alone."

Stella McLoughlin

Hello everyone. I am making a brief re-appearance for this extra episode. I should like to thank Duncan for stepping into my Friday night slot.

Can I now castigate the people running the ITV website? They have tried to improve it. But none of the links work properly and on nights when there are two episodes one of the two is always unable to be found. For those of us with family problems that cannot watch the live broadcast the website and the ability to play it at a time of our choosing is great - if only it worked. Concentrate less on what it looks like and make sure the basic site links work correctly.

We open outside Emily's house where Emily is castigating Norris for waking her in the middle of the night. Apparently it is her own fault - he has something for the charity shop where she will be spending the day - he wants her to take Ramsay's chest (and if he were still alive Emily would want rather more than his chest). She tells him to stop acting like a petulant child and open the box (no Norris "Take the Money" instead - only works if you are old enough).

Fiz and Chesney are still arguing - do you care? Do I care? No, next scene please.

Norris has retreated inside and the trunk (another part of Ramsay that Emily would dearly love to have) is sitting there in the bottom corner of the screen glowering at Doris daring him to open it. Luckily Doris is pretending that it is invisible. Inevitably and inexorably the box (much closer to where Emily wants a bit of Ramsay) draws Norris in and he unlocks it. Inside there is an assortment of personal items, an old bear, a cricket box, a flag and surprise, surprise a bundle of letter neatly tied together. Closer inspection shows that they are email envelopes with the distinctive red and blue edging. Turns out the letters had been sent from Australia to his mother and all had been returned to sender address unknown, unopened. Nosy Norris immediately opens them and starts reading.

At the factory Janice complains to the management that the material is not good enough for her sewing. Rosie, yes she is management now, is not impressed. Luke tells them both to keep the noise down and Rosie does not take kindly to being told off. Luke sues for peace and asks her to come round this evening. In preparation Rosie heads to Dev's and buys a bottle of champers where Michelle asks what she is celebrating. Rosie confirms that it is dinner with Luke, which causes Michelle to smile as she knows that Luke is planning to flush Rosie away. She hopes Rosie will get an evening to remember forever.

Later back at the factory Rosie is going about the need for her first designs to have first class quality. Janice decides to break it to her that her designs will never go into production - they are merely being run up to keep miss silly money happy and after all she is so gullible and the factory girls (and Sean) are all laughing at her.

Emily returns and apologises to Norris for her earlier attitude. He admits that he has been through the trunk and there were some letters. Some terrible letters. Apparently Ramsay found his mother when he was about 18. There were monthly letters for about two years and then they tailed off and then Ramsay gave up. All sent back. Norris describes Ramsay's pleading for information, even acknowledgement of his existence but their mother had returned every single one. No signs of them being opened and resealed and yet it was not how he remembers his mother. So how did Ramsay know about Norris whom he asked after in the letters? They move to search the trunk again.

Fiz and Chesney are still arguing - do you care? Do I care? No, next scene please.

Digging through the trunk they find a parcel addressed to Norris which had also been returned, the shape is a giveaway - but once open we see that the boomerang has been beautifully decorated. Norris says that if he had received it he would have marvelled at this item from the other side of the world - and we have to remember that in those days the chance of travelling there was almost nil. I have never been and yet one of my daughters has and many of the people who work for me have done so - the world has changed so much. Inside the wrapping is a note from Ramsay to Norris hoping that they will meet one day soon. Norris finds it hard too read as finally he is feeling the emotion. And inside Ramsay's wallet Emily has found a letter which Norris reads and becomes even more upset.

Written by his mother Norris reads it "I have another son Norris now and a new life. You would ruin everything. Please leave me alone and never write to me again." Emily reminds him that it was hard for unmarried mothers that long ago and Norris finally admits his errors. his mother worshipped him and he was getting the love due to two sons.

In the Rovers Blanche and Janice are united in their opposition to a combination of Leanne and Peter and are doing well until Peter comes in (why does a recovering alcoholic go into a pub? - no I don't know but there must be a joke in there somewhere). Blanche calls him a drunken bigamist who cannot open his mouth without lying and Janice tells him that she wants a better man for Leanne than he is! Peter says he is trying to change and he has responsibilities - which Blanche points out he had when he fired the flat. Leanne arrives just before the lynch mob drag him to the guillotine and tells him with a big smile that he is perfect and drags him out saying "See ya" to the tricoteuses.

Rosie asks Luke if it is true that they will not make her designs and he admits that he does not think they will work in the current business environment. She starts crying and distressed heads to the bathroom. Eventually he coaxes her out of the bathroom with smudged eye make up - he calls her Bela Lugosi - which goes over her head and she asks if Lugosi is Italian for nice - Luke almost collapses in tears of laughter and we all wonder what the hell Kev paid for when she had expensive education! Anyway ROsie admits she gets emotional - would Luke like to think about how bad she would be if he chucked her ... which oddly enough up to this point he had been planning to do. Suddenly Luke cannot remember what he wanted to talk to her about to get her out of the bathroom. Rosie is not deterred because she has her own topic of conversation - she thinks she should be moving in. Luke is stunned and silenced and the best he can manage is "That's something we really need to ..." before getting mown down by her saying "Brilliant" and telling him that he was not going to regret this. Luke has been completely outmanoeuvred!

Norris remains distraught and wonders why Ramsay could not have shown him when he was still there - and why did he keep that letter with him for fifty years? Norris looks at the last picture of them together and he admits that he was as cold as his mother and now it was too late, far too late. And finally Norris breaks down. He had had the chance to put things right and wasted it and admits that he has been a silly old fool.

So in summary what have we learnt tonight: Malcolm Hebden has had a chance to show that he is more than a comic character and that surely is one of the great strengths of the Street That Luke is either impossibly stupid or unlucky - the former I reckon, why did Carla ever think he could run the factory? And will Leanne and Peter make a go of it - well until he finds another blonde (Shelley, Lucy and Leanne are all sort of blonde - Michelle was an exception)?

I cannot say that I shall be back next week because Wednesday episodes are rare - but providing my family difficulties allow I hope to be here from time to time.

K Richard W

Here's the update for Thursday 24th September.

Rosie comes out of Luke's bedroom wrapped in towels, full of plans to make his spare room into her dressing room when she moves in. He looks less than thrilled by the idea (unlike Rosie who's practically jumping up and down) and tries to tell her that this is a big step, working together all day and being together all night…She brushes his worries aside, loads of couples do it, she tells him, and gives examples such as Carla and Tony, Madonna and Guy, Katie and Peter…. Luke points out that all those couples have split up, but she's sure it won't happen to them, she's dead easy going, very low maintenance. "Trust me," she says, "this will be amazing!"

Norris is going through the contents of Ramsay's trunk, and tells Emily he's sorting out things for the charity shop. "Are you going to donate everything?" she asks. He picks up a fob watch, and Emily tells him it was gift from Ramsay's adoptive father in Australia. It meant the world to him but he lost it once. When he got it back six months later he called it his ‘boomerang' his ‘good luck charm'. Norris looks a little put out that Emily obviously knew so much more about his brother than he did. The next item out is a snow globe of the Sidney Opera House, he goes to put it back in the trunk but then changes his mind. "I suppose it might come in handy as a paperweight for invoices at the shop," he says. Emily looks pleased as she goes off to make them both a cup of tea. When she's left the room, Norris picks up the fob watch and thoughtfully puts it back in its blue velvet bag.

Rita is cleaning the window outside the Kabin when Chesney comes along. She asks if he's all right. "And how's Fiz? I haven't seen much of her this week," she says. Chesney mutters that she's ok. Then Dev comes along and confesses to Rita that he's missing Amber. "They grow up so quickly don't they? Where does the time go?"

In the factory, Janice asks Fiz if she has plans for her birthday tomorrow. She says she doesn't have any plans, so Sean says she has to do something. Kelly points out that it's not as if she can go out for a nice romantic meal or anything, and makes crass remarks about conjugal visits. Luke comes out of the office followed by Rosie who tells him to go and check out a sofa she's seen, it's like a massive pair of red lips, it'll be perfect in the flat! She then turns round and tells the workers that she's moving in with Luke. After an initial burst of laughter from Sean they're all stunned.

Michelle sees Maria in the cafe. "Where's the baby?" she asks. "Oh! I knew I'd left something on the bus!" exclaims Maria. Michelle looks horrified until Maria laughs and tells her he's with Audrey at the salon, she wanted half an hour with him. Michelle says she's heard that Maria and the baby are off to Paris to see Tony.

Just then Rosie comes in with Minnie, talking loudly about how pleased she is that Luke has asked her to move in with him. Maria asks Michelle if she gets the feeling that Rosie's conversation is directed at her.

Emily meets Norris in the street, he's on his way to the charity shop with a couple of carrier bags. She asks if he kept anything else from the trunk, and he tells her just letters and photos, things that wouldn't be of any interest to anyone else. She says she thinks he'll be happy one day that he kept hold of them.

Dev and Umed are in the shop when Maria and Michelle come in to buy nappies, still talking about Luke and Rosie. Michelle thought that Luke was about to dump Rosie, not have her move in, but he's made his bed so he can lie in it. Just then Amber comes in and Dev is delighted to see her. It's Freshers week, no real work, just boozing. "But you're loving it, right?" he asks. "Er…when the work starts it'll be great, yeah," she says.

Fiz is showing Julie dress she found for her wedding, in a charity shop. "I know it's not very traditional but the wedding's not going to be, is it?" she says. She adds that she's hoping Hayley will change her mind about being matron of honour. Julie asks if she's going to tell Sean, but Fiz doesn't want it all round the factory, not with Chesney being the way he is. The last thing she needs is it getting back to Rosie and Sally. "I just want to enjoy the day," she says. Just then Kirk comes in, saying he needs her help, he's got a job interview - dental hygienist (?). Fiz says she has to get back to work, but Julie suggests he tells her all about it.

In the Rovers, Janice remarks that it's not like Fiz not to want to go out on her birthday. Sean points out that ever since it came out about her and John they haven't exactly been supportive. Kelly reminds them that she's marrying a loony who kidnapped a teenager. Sean thinks they could have been a bit more sensitive. Just then Rosie comes in and says, "Hiya!" to everyone. Kelly wonders quietly if, when John gets out, they could persuade him to kidnap her again.

Rosie has joined Luke at the bar, and Michelle tells them she couldn't help but overhear about them moving in together. "Congratulations," she says. Rosie thanks her and says she's off to the little girls room, but gives Luke a huge kiss before she goes. Left on his own, Luke tells Michelle it's not what it looks like. He says he got caught off guard after nixing all Rosie's designs. Michelle tells him it's nothing to do with her, but he assures her that he's going to finish it tonight. "Oh please!" huffs Michelle. "I am," says Luke, "she's driving me mental, I just want to let her down gently." Michelle huffily tells him to let her know how it works out for him.

Norris arrives home, telling Emily he'd been to visit his mother's grave. He was shocked to find an ice cream van outside the cemetery. Then he pulls the fob watch in its velvet bag from his pocket and gives it to her. She starts to say she couldn't accept it but he asks if she'd really want it to go to the charity shop, and he feels sure Ramsay would want her to have it. He says that talking to his mother has given him some perspective - Ramsay left him the money to do something important with, something life-changing. He then goes off upstairs to change his shirt.

Anna sees Chesney in the street and invites him in for tea.

Meanwhile, Maria has gone to see Fiz to see how the wedding plans are going. "Oh great," says Fiz, "Chesney's not speaking to me and I don't know if Hayley's even going to come." Maria offers to cancel her trip to Paris if she would like her there but Fiz says it's too late now, she's had to give names to the prison. Just then Kirk walks in and announces that he didn't get the dental hygienist job. He flops down on the sofa, on top of Fiz's dress! She shouts at him, but fortunately there's no harm done, but he goes off upstairs saying he thought she was his mate.

Gary Windass isn't too pleased when he realises his mum is planning to give Chesney the mini Kievs that he bought, but she reminds him about a time a few years back when she and his dad had a big fall out and Gary spent a lot of time at his Auntie May's house. Gary then softens and invites Ches to play a video game with him.

Dev takes Amber into the pub and plays the proud father - his little girl is now at uni in London getting a top class education. Embarrassed, Amber tries to shut him up but he tells her she doesn't want to end up in Weatherfield for the rest of her life, stuck in a succession of lousy dead end jobs. He then hesitates realising what he's said. "No offence," he says to Sean. "Some taken," replies Sean.

Dev goes to the gents, and Minnie asks Amber to tell her all about London. "It's massive, it's expensive and most of them are there to get welled and get off with each other. It's not exactly what I had in mind when I was sweating through my A-levels," she says.

Rosie waltzes into the pub with Luke and orders champagne. "We're celebrating," she says. Luke glances at Michelle and then turns to Rosie. "No, no champagne," he says, "look, this moving in lark, it's all too fast." She says he was dead keen this morning but he says he wasn't, she was. "And it's not just the moving in that's too fast, it's us, you and me. " Rosie thinks they're brilliant together but he tells her that working together all week is a recipe for disaster, never mind the age gap. "You're dumping me?" asks Rosie. He says he's not exactly dumping.. "You're dumping me!" she cries, "how could you do this to me?" He tells her to calm down, but Rosie won't be calm, she's just put a deposit on a lip sofa, it was going to be a surprise. "We can still be mates, can't we?" he asks. (Err….Luke, you've got a lot to learn!" Shouting to Michelle: "You're welcome to him!" Rosie slams out of the pub. The factory workers all shout: "See ya!" and then fall about laughing. Luke goes back to the bar and orders a pint from Michelle. As she pours it, he asks: "Are you doing anything tomorrow night?"

Outside in the street, Rosie walks home crying bitterly. (One can almost feel sorry for her...almost!)

Rita is locking up the Kabin when Norris comes across to talk to her. He tells her he's been doing a lot of thinking. She starts to tell him she's been up since 5am and her feet are killing her. Upstairs there's a vodka and tonic with her name on it..Norris interrupts. "It's the Kabin - I want to buy your half of it!"

Anne Logan

Hello and welcome to Friday.

"Were you there when they crucified my Lord?" sings Sophie. I used the word "sings" in its broadest sense. Rosie is horrified and not just by the standard of singing. "I am mortified for you," she says. She tells Sophie to be as Christian as she likes around home, "but don't do it outside, you freak!" Rosie plans to stay home from work after being dumped but Sophie tells her she should go in, if only to show Luke what he's missing.

In the Kabin, Norris shakes his head as he tidies the displays. He's lost in thought and doesn't hear Dev come in. But when he realises, he wastes no time in telling Dev that Rita's speaking to her solicitor about selling the Kabin to Norris. Norris is still Norris, no matter how excited, and he can't help questioning Dev about why Amber is back.

At number five, Fiz comes downstairs to check the mail but sighs as she realises there's nothing for her. We know it's her birthday but Kirk seems to have forgotten. He's packing and tells Fiz he's leaving. He's got to get away from her negative vibe. Americans call it closure, he says. He needs to ship up and suit out, prepare the way for a brand new future. "Not that I've got self-esteem issues or owt like that." "Have you been watching a lot of daytime television?" asks Fiz. Kirk says: "Judge Judy's kind of hot since she went blonde." Chesney comes downstairs and Kirk says he's leaving. Ches rounds on Fiz, telling her she's as good as taken a gun and blown his family apart. "Kirk's lived here longer than you," he points out, saying she's the one who should be leaving. Kirk tells them he thinks they need to take some heat out of the situation. Fiz asks sarcastically whether they should have a word with the aftercare team.

In the street, Michelle's on her mobile phone giving someone a hard time. Dev overhears and gives her a hard time himself. He hasn't seen her rent yet. Michelle snaps that she's just been talking to her bank because none of her automatic payments have been made. Once she's dealt with Dev, Luke tells her he likes a feisty lady. He points out that he's now single and asks her out. Michelle accepts. Luke admits he's dreading seeing Rosie at work.

Jason's received a letter from the Mr Gay Weatherfield people. They want him for their calendar, plus he can go forward to compete in the national competition which has a prize of five thousand pounds. Tina's thrilled for him. They could do with the money. She suggests they celebrate. Jason wants to celebrate with a romantic night in but Tina's thinking Party.

Rosie arrives at the factory to sarcastic comments from the machinists. She goes into the office and at first ignores Luke, then asks what's going on with Michelle. He denies there's anything.

Kirk's wearing an enormous backpack. It's not Goodbye, just a-reservoir, he says. He tells Ches to have a good life and says families should stick together. After he says goodbye to Schmeichel, Fiz wishes him good luck wherever his travels take him. "Yes," he says, "it's a long and winding road out there but I will walk it wherever it takes me." As Fiz, Chesney and Schmeichel watch, Kirk turns and walks away into the distance . . . er . . . as far as Maria's, next door. He asks his sister if he can stay for a while.

In the pub, Michelle seems distressed by the state of Darryl's hair and asks what kind of shampoo he uses. "It's yellow," he says. Tina comes in and invites Darryl to the party. She asks Michelle to tell Ryan about it and Michelle wangles an invitation for herself, too. In a booth, Norris tells Emily he hasn't seen Rita all day and doesn't know what she's doing. Emily advises him not to put any pressure on Rita. The lady herself arrives and wonders why Norris has shut the Kabin. Norris gets up to go back to it but Rita tells him to sit. "It's yours. The Kabin is yours. I'm selling her to you." Norris is overwhelmed. "Oh my good gossamer!" Rita tells her friends she's planning a round-the-world cruise. "If I learned one thing from Ramsay, it's to make the most of now." Emily's glad Ramsay's money will be put to good use. Norris admits he behaved badly towards Ramsay and wishes he could put the clock back.

At the factory, Rosie's bought Luke a coffee. He tells her admires the mature way she's handling things. As he heads off to an appointment, Rosie calls after him not to burn his lips on the hot coffee. Kelly says that's right because he might be locking them with hers later. Luke tells her he's far too professional for that. As soon as he's out of the building, Rosie throws her iced coffee drink over Kelly, informing her that she and Luke are just on a break.

Back in the pub, Rita's talking about her cruise. She doesn't look forward to setting foot in the Kabin again with all these plans in her head. "Don't," says Norris, advising her to start her retirement here and now. "What about my Tina Turner mug?" asks Rita. Norris promises to get it to her. The three toast Rita's last day.

In the kebab shop, Theresa thinks Darryl's got a face longer than Celine Dion's. Amber comes in and invites him to the party, just as a friend. Theresa says she's coming too. She wants to make sure Amber doesn't get her claws into Darryl again. "I'd better blow the cobwebs off me boob tube," she says. [A warning, gentle readers, she kiddeth not!]

At home, Sophie tells Rosie that Luke has treated her badly. Rosie thinks Luke's just headstrong and passionate.

Theresa's sweeping the pavement and asks a passing Jason about the party details. Jason is appalled and accuses Tina of inviting too many people.

Dev's also annoyed when Darryl comes into the shop and he realises Amber and Darryl are going to the party together.

Michelle and Luke meet in the street and she suggests they go to the party together. They kiss in the street but are seen by a VERY annoyed Rosie!

Will there be trouble at the party? What do you think?
Check back for the second episode later.

Margaret Carr (Special thanks to my fellow updaters who will cover the next two weeks for me while I am in New Zealand)

The party is in full swing and Sean, Janice and Kelly (hereafter referred to as the factory crew) are watching Luke and Michelle getting very close in the corner. Michelle is flirting with Luke outrageously and Kelly comments that it wasn't so long ago he was trying to get back with Rosie. Across the room Amber and Darryl are straining for a topic of conversation so Amber comments that his mum seems to be having a good time. This isn't a lie either, as Teresa is straddling a man on a chair and remains like this for most of the party.

Fiz arrives home and Chesney asks her where she has been. She tries to fob him off but he tells her he knows she has been to see John just like she did on his birthday. Fiz is surprised Chesney remembered her birthday but he replies he didn't forget, he just didn't think it worth celebrating.

Back at the party, David has turned up with a good looking blonde in tow and Graham for one is impressed. He asks David where he found her and Zoe replies that he washed her hair for her this morning. Zoe thanks Tina for inviting her but Tina coldly replies that she didn't. Michelle and Luke are continuing their passionate embrace until Rosie, who appears from nowhere, drags Michelle away from him by her hair. The ensemble turn to watch as the women yell insults at each other. Michelle throws Rosie across a table and Tina threatens to call the police. Rosie suggests she call a plastic surgeon to sort out Michelle's face. Michelle grabs Rosie around the neck and drags her from the house and throws her across the cobbles. Luke takes Michelle back inside while Sean and Kelly ask, through stifled giggles, if Rosie is all right.

Chesney calls round at the Windass residence and Gary answers. He asks Chesney if he wants to come in. Chesney asks if he can have a lager as Kirk lets him all the time. Across the road, Fiz appears at the door, wondering where Chesney has gone. Julie comes over and hands her a bottle of champagne for her birthday then persuades her to come over to the party. Tina emerges from the party nearby and passes Norris, who is busy scraping Rita's name from the top of the shop. She tells him to tell Rita she may be late in the morning but he informs her Rita is no longer in charge so she had better be on time.

Back at the party, Michelle is conscious of people talking about her so she asks Luke if they can go somewhere else. Ryan voices his relief to Sian that they have gone. Graham is badgering Natasha with some pretty poor chat up lines which border on insults. Needless to say, she is not impressed. Fiz and Julie enter the party and they are suddenly crowded by people, not due to their popularity but because of the fact they are wielding a bottle of champagne. Sean's favourite song then comes on and he drags Jason, Mr Gay Weatherfield, onto the dance floor, just as his rival from the bar comes in

Rosie and Sophie are watching a film together. Rosie is busy downing wine and Sophie advises her that getting drunk won't solve her problems. Rosie makes a jibe about communion wine that isn't to Sophie's taste and she storms off, asking her why she has to be so nasty all of the time.

As the party guests sing an absolutely awful rendition of Happy Birthday to Fiz, the guy from the gay club (I forget his name) is accusing Jason of homophobia and informs him that he will get him disqualified. Teresa has dragged herself from the stranger's lap to have a dance off with Julie. She comments that they could be the female Diversity but my doubts are quite high on that one.

In Gary's shed, he and Chesney are discussing John. Chesney says that the man is vile but Gary says he was quite withdrawn in prison but not disliked, He also comments that anyone that can put up with Rosie's screeching for more than five minutes can't be all that bad.

The Factory Crew are stumbling down the Street. Kelly and Julie are keen to head on to a male stripping club but Sean offers to be their first stripper for the evening.

Fiz has made her way over to Maria's. Maria hands her a birthday present and apologises that she won't be there at the wedding. Fiz tells her how a song from the film Carousel made her think of her situation and she starts to cry, evidently still torn over what to do.

The tone of the party has settled down and the guests are sitting dazed on the floor as Ryan strums on his guitar. Amber confesses to Darryl that she is lonely at university. He asks if there is anything he can do to make her feel better and she answers that he could snog her face off.

The lights are off in the Kabin and Norris looks around reflectively before heading outside and locking the door. Over the road, we see Graham asking Natasha why she won't ‘go with him' and she tells him to come closer. Thinking his luck is in, Graham leans in for a smacker on the lips...only to get a smacker across the face.

We return to Norris who is looking happily at his name above the door of The Kabin.

So what have we learned tonight?

The following characters cannot dance: Natasha, Kelly, Sean, Teresa, Michelle, Anna
Jason often stinks the bog out with his man spray
Natasha has a nose like a gherkin, according to graham
Lack of slap is easily remedified
Sian's dad is a chromosome away from Mike Tyson
Jason can't spell homophobia

Quotes

Biggest role reversal: "Where've you been til this time?" Chesney to Fiz
Least bewildering statement from a blushing bride to be: "I am going to marry that freak" Fiz
Conversation partner with most similar IQ: "I'm just going to talk to that wall" Natasha
Best chat up line: "You could have had a sex change" Graham to Natasha
Biggest hypocrite: "She's trouble, her" Teresa

I'd like to say I'm off for a two week holiday too, but alas, more from me next week!
Duncan Lindsay

Written by Mark Burt directed by David Kester

It's the morning of her wedding day but Fiz is just sitting on her own, staring at her dress, not happy at all. Seems Chesney stayed out at the Windass's all night. Julie comes to the door. She tries to reassure Fiz and tells her to enjoy herself! She nearly leaves before remembering what she really came for. She brings a lovely little bouquet out of a bag for Fiz who hugs her gratefully.

In the nick, it sounds like Stape's family isn't going to be at the wedding, either. He's on the phone to them and from our end of the conversation, it sounds like his mother isn't going to make the wedding. She's upset, he knows she supports him. Anyway, he gets off the phone rather than listening to her upset any further. He sends love from both he and Fiz and hangs up. Only he doesn't really look upset, he's more tickled that he's actually getting married today. He asks the big, burly guard if he's got any advice and is told not to end up inside again and remember that "marriage" isn't just a word, "it's a sentence!" I think it's supposed to be a joke. It falls flat.

In the corner shop, Rosie is nursing a hangover. Dev describes a rather vile hangover cure which Rosie declines. Amber wanders in and she looks a bit worse for wear too. (If they have a party on Friday night, why are they still hungover on Monday morning?) Rosie strops off, Amber tells Dev she's just not had a lot of sleep. Then she tentatively tells him she is thinking of not going back. She says she's back with Darryl.

In the Kabin, Tina staggers in with her hangover. Two minutes late, as Norris piously points out. She promises it won't happen again. Methinks he's not going to be an easy taskmaster. She calls him The Boss and he smirks with the pleasure of the sound of it.

Outside, Michelle is striding down the street with Luke. He says he's going to finish with Rosie. She's dubious. He's insistent. He knows how she ticks. They kiss goodbye and he turns toward the factory.

In the kebab shop, Darryl is assuring his mother that the kiss he shared with Amber meant nothing. He is not believed. He tells her he will stay the course. Amber comes in just then. (Ears burning?) Teresa takes herself into the back and leaves them to it. They exchange a few words of small talk and she breaks the news. She says he'll be seeing more of her and wants them to work. He's happy about that and hugs her just as his mother returns, scowling at what she's just witnessed.

In the factory, Rosie arrives. The bees follow her to the office but are given short shrift by Luke, who goes into the office and closes the door. She apologizes for her actions at the party and vows there was no excuse. He asks if she's ok with their split and she says she is, though clearly is not. She goes to make him a coffee and he unplugs his phone, calling Michelle and telling her it's all sorted. (Oh you're not going to get out of it that easily, me laddo!)

Natasha is doing Fiz's hair and face. Anna is there, too, and says she didn't get a chance to talk to Chesney before he left for school. Fiz's face falls, knowing there's no way he'll be at the wedding now. They try to assure her and tell her there's still time to do the right thing but she's got doubts. "What if this isn't the right thing?" but Anna puts that out of her mind. It's all about her and John, and that's all that matters.

In the cafe, Roy is fiddling with a screwdriver and the bottom of a train car. The cafe isn't open and Roy doesn't seem so inclined. Hayley sits down and says they have to go see Fiz.

Luke returns to the factory office for some files. Rosie relates a message from the building manager of Victoria Court. He has to be at his flat at 1 to let the man in because they want to fix the heat. She offers to go in his place, knowing that he would decline, which he does. He looks around for his "other" mobile, thinking he'd left it there on the desk charging. (the one he unplugged and used to call Michelle with earlier?) He leaves, Rosie reaches down into her bag and lo and behold...Luke's mobile! We all know what kind of havoc Rosie and wreak with a mobile! She's got that revenge face on, too. It's not going to be pretty.

After the break, we see John spiffing up in front of a mirror. He's shaved and wearing a suit and tie. Back on Coronation Street, Fiz gets to see the final product in her mirror. She does look lovely! There's a knock on the door. Anna skips over to answer it. It's Roy and Hayley and Fiz invites them in. Natasha and Anna go into the kitchen. Fiz knows they aren't coming and Hayley stutters to try to explain. Sounds like they're not going in order to support Chesney, not that they're taking sides. But they figure he's had too many upsets in his life already. Fiz totally understands, she would never want Ches to feel abandoned. (Then don't you think that's how he's going to feel with you marrying Stape?) Fiz and Hayley exchange tearful hugs and Roy even leans over for a little peck on her cheek before he leaves, telling her that she's bright light into their lives and will shine today. Awww!! That's really huge coming from Roy!

There's the sound of the taxi horn outside. They all go out but Anna is furious at the state of the cab and comes up one side of Eddie and down the other. Eddie just makes excuses. Across the road, Kelly notices what's going on and assumes the correct result. She runs into the factory and tells them all she thinks Fiz might be wearing a wedding dress. They're munching on their sarnies (not in the pub for dinner for a change!) and Julie blurts out that yes, it's Fiz's wedding day. Sean, Janice, Kelly and Julie run out, Rosie follows to see what's going on.

Anna's helping Eddie detoxify the cab when all her friends run over. There's a few sarky words, mainly out of Kelly, but she is shushed by Sean and Janice who, though hurt they didn't know, insist they are still her mates. Rosie pushes through and lets loose. She lets Fiz have it with both vindictive barrels. She pities Fiz and warns her that Johnny boy will flip out again. She's as nasty as she could possibly be but Fiz stays composed and dignified, though she's hurt. Her friends don't let her go without a hug and good luck wishes, even Kelly. She stops before getting into the car and tosses her bouquet over her shoulder. It's caught with glee by Sean. Fiz gets into the cab just as Chesney comes round the corner, watching with horror. Anna is the only one that sees him.

Norris has Tina rearranging some things. She tells him his first job applicant is in the back waiting. It's Kirk!!! He's wearing a purple shirt and tie and a big, goofy grin, holding up his CV. Aw go on, hire him!

The cab pulls up to the prison. Eddie wishes her good luck. She emerges and looks up at the imposing building.

Norris is perusing Kirk's CV. Kirk is babbling and putting his foot in things. "Dog stuff" and happy days at the butcher are really all the experience he's got but he says that even being downsized hasn't put him off working with humans. Good to know. Ok... first question. What does the word 'stationery' mean to him? Kirk thinks hard about it. The smoke clears. The light goes on. "Not moving!"

Fiz is let into the prison chapel where her groom awaits. She approaches and he tells her she looks incredible. He stares at her, hardly believing the moment has arrived and he thanks her. Except when he asks that the guest be let in, Fiz shuffles her feet a bit and admits nobody's coming. She tries to avoid telling him the truth but he insists, in his best teacher voice. She admits everything, Chesney hating him and them together. She was scared of his reaction. And the friends. And neighbours. He insists. They have to start off with the truth or they can't start at all.

Rosie emerges from Underworld, texting on (her? Luke's?) phone. In the bar, Michelle's phone bleeps and she is shocked to see a hot message on the phone. Natasha asks to see it. Michelle passes it over and is grinning that it is kind of hard to pass up an offer like that!

In the corner shop, Dev is practicing his putting. Teresa comes storming in. He admits he knows Darryl and Amber are back on but he's not worried. He has a plan.

Luke arrives at his flat. Must be 1 o'clock then. Rosie is lounging with long legs bared. Surprise! She brings her short skirt and cleavage over and with a smile, says she isn't ok with them finishing after all. She grabs him for a kiss.

Stape smirks at Fiz and says he actually feels more loved at the realization that everyone and their dog is against him and Fiz and she lied to cover it all up. She did it all for him (that was his master plan wasn't it? now when he gets out, he will probably try to talk her into moving away again!) He appreciates her sacrifices. This makes quite an impression on her. She looks around. The officials back out again for another few minutes. She looks back at him and says she's still lying. She doesn't want it to be just the two of them against the world. If it has to start with the truth, then she can't lie to herself. She can't marry him without Chesney's support. She can't marry him. We wait with bated breath until part two...

Tvor

Fizz pleads with John in the chapel to say something. She wants to hear that he doesn't hate her. Of course he doesn't, he loves her but he wishes things were different. Fizz tells him how she too hoped that things would have been different with Chesney and she didn't want to lose him by marrying John against his wishes. John asks, "But what about me?" The sympathetic guard hands Fizz a hanky since things are so emotional. Fizz gets up to leave but John asks her to stay for the rest of the hour they have together.

Rosie is at Luke's place, desperately trying to seduce him. Luke doesn't seem so keen. He tells her that things are different now. Rosie urges him to let them say goodbye to each other properly and to "live a little." It looks like Luke is not going to put up much of a fight.

As Michelle makes her way across the street to Luke's place, Gary Windass crosses the road, talking loudly into a mobile phone about owing somebody money. He obviously doesn't want to be talking to whoever is on the other end of the line and he pretends to have a bad connection before hanging up. He meets Chesney and tells Ches that he looks "pig sick." Chesney mentions that it's Fizz's wedding day. Gary asks Chesney if he's sure that he wants to stay away from his own sister's wedding. He then starts to play some mind games with Ches, telling him that Fizz is a "div" and a "five-pinter". He knows that Chesney will defend his sister which he does. He points out to Chesney, "You do care about her!"

Norris is chasing Teresa Morton out of the shop, refusing to even give her an interview for the situation vacant. She takes it well, telling Norris, "You know what you are? You're just a moany old slaphead who works in a sweet shop." Yes, but we still love him, Teresa, which is more than we can say for you. When Tina sees Teresa Morton has come for an interview she is just about to give Norris what for before he interrupts her with, "Rest assured, I would rather douse the walls of the Kabin with petrol, set them alight with myself in it than let that woman step one foot be'ind my counter." Tina is placated and asks Norris if she can make him a cup of tea. "Please," he says, perhaps a little exasperatedly, "and leave the bag in."

At the prison chapel, John is asking Fizz if she wants to be with him. Fizz explains how it's more than just the two of them and enlightens him as to how she ran into Rosie Webster and how unpleasant it was. But, Fizz tells him she wants to spend the rest of her life with him. John pleads with her to marry him today. The celebrant gives them the hurry up and asks them what they have decided. Fizz kisses John and tells him, "I'm sorry." She runs away. John is left alone in the church.

Chesney comes home to an empty house and reads a card to Fizz, "To the girl with the biggest heart in the world, best wishes to the happy couple" from Kirk. Ches looks a little remorseful.

At Luke's place, Rosie is seriously seducing her man. Luke, already shirtless, asks her, "What's the rush?" She makes an excuse that they only have their lunch hour just as the doorbell goes off. Rosie sends Luke into his bedroom and goes to let Michelle in before hiding in the bathroom. Luke comes out into the living room to see who was at the door, wearing nothing but his boxer shorts. Michelle seems surprised but pleased to see him. "Sorry I'm late, I just went home to get changed but if I'd known you'd start without me," Michelle says, looking gorgeous in a tight black dress. Just as Luke asks Michelle what does she mean by "late" and Michelle answers, "Well, you texted me to come over.,.." Rosie appears and tries her best to act shocked, exclaiming, "What are you doing here?" Michelle is furious and asks Luke if this is his idea of a joke. As Michelle storms off, Luke asks to be allowed to explain. Rosie, way out of her depth playing with the big kids, tries to shoo Michelle off but Michelle decides that she would, in fact, like an explanation after all.

Anna, Roy and Hayley are in the cafe. Anna is telling Roy and Hayley that they both look dead miserable. Anna knows why- they both know they should have gone to Fizz's wedding- and she knows she should keep her nose out. She takes a fried egg over to table four. Amber and Dev are talking at a table about Amber's relationship with Darryl. Amber asks her dad if he's ever heard of love, "and not the sort where you stand in front of a mirror salivating over yourself." Dev thinks that love is a wonderful thing but so is having a career and an education. Amber thinks that these things are great too but not if she doesn't have anyone to share it with. Dev say that in that case, they have nothing left to talk about.

Chesney comes into the cafe, asking Roy to lend him some money. He wants to take a taxi to the prison. Hayley thinks that Chesney wants to try to persuade Fizz to change her mind. In , Chesney tells Hayley and Roy, "Whenever I've done summat wrong, or everyone else has let us down, she's always been there for me. I still hate what she's doing but, maybe now it's my turn to be there for her." Hayley and Roy are delighted and get ready to accompany him to the prison for Fizz's wedding.

Meanwhile, Fizz is sitting on the ground, outside the prison in her beautiful wedding dress, looking at her wedding rings in a wee plastic bag and crying her eyes out. :-(

At Luke's place, Rosie is trying to blame Luke for the awkward situation they're all in. Rosie's story is that Luke told her that he had broken up with Michelle and wanted to get back with her and she believed him because..... Michelle interrupts, "You're a dozy slapper?" Michelle doesn't believe a word of it. She knows that Rosie set them up and so does Luke. He sends Rosie home but not before telling her, "And don't bother coming into work, because you're fired." Rosie leaves in a fit and with a parting shot at Luke, "Oh, and by the way, your bed might be king-sized, but that's all that is." Of course, she's referring to the size of his, well, you know. After Rosie has gone, Luke tries to ingratiate himself back in with Michelle but she looks very hostile. As she should.

Teresa is in the Kebab shop moaning about Norris to Darryl. Dev comes in to speak to Darryl in private. "Anything you've got to say to my son, you can say in front of me," says Teresa defensively. Darryl suggests Teresa takes a break to go for a ciggie which she is delighted by and instantly forgets about Dev's word with Darryl. Dev tells Darryl that he just wants the best for Amber which he thinks is for Amber to go back to Uni. He gives Darryl a cheque for £500 to persuade him to fly out to Spain, get a job and leave Amber. Darryl tells Dev that his poxy bribe won't cut it. He loves Amber. Dev tells him it's not a bribe, it's an opportunity for Darryl to do the right thing. He tells Darryl that the £500 cheque is proof that he loves Amber.

In the prison, the kindly prison guard is trying to gee up John a bit after Fizz has left. He asks John if he is planning to do anything stupid. John assures him that he is not. "Good," says the prison guard, "because the paperwork is a right pain." Then he slams the cell door on John.

At Luke's, Michelle is giving Luke the elbow. She wants a normal relationship, not one where some mad cow is giving her grief all the time.

In the Kabin, Norris realises where he has been going wrong with his classified ad for a help in the Kabin. He thinks they haven't been stringent enough to discourage the Kirks and Teresas from applying. Meanwhile, a woman has come in and started browsing in the magazines. She introduces herself to Norris, "I'm Sheila, Sheila Wheeler." Tina makes a joke about car insurance (Sheila's Wheels- google them if you dare). Anyway, Sheila is here about the job.

Outside the prison, a sad Fizz calls for a taxi.

In the Rovers, Gary Windass indulges in a little flirting with Michelle who is back behind the bar. Even though Michelle could be his mother. Anyway, Michelle gives him short shrift but still has a bit of a giggle at the end when he refuses to give in. Amber comes into the bar and sees Darryl. Darryl asks Amber if she was serious about jacking in Uni. He asks her why does she want to give up now after all her hard work. Amber knows something is wrong and asks him what's up. "I'm moving to Spain," he whispers almost inaudibly into his pint. Amber is furious and asks him how long he's been thinking about this. She thought he cared about the two of them. "Me dad was right about you," she shouts at him, "You're a waste of space!" Amber gets up and leaves.

Back at the bar, Gary is still after Michelle telling her he thinks she's in pretty good nick for an old woman. Or words to that effect. "I've always had a thing for brunettes an' all," says Gary. Michelle offers to put in a good word for him with Betty.

In the Kabin, Norris is having a very good interview with Sheila Wheeler who seems to have the gift of the gab as well as plenty of experience in the trade. Norris asks her, as a formality, if she has a criminal record. "Well, I think I've got a Daniel O'Donnell CD somewhere," answers Sheila humorously. Norris offers her the job there and then.

Fizz has just got into a taxi to leave the prison when she sees Hayley and Roy coming up the road. "Stop the flamin' car!" she shouts at the taxi driver and she dashes out see her loved ones have turned up for her wedding after all. Chesney apologises for missing her wedding. "I never got married..... because you weren't here!" she tells him. "I'm here now," says Chesney before he gives his big sis a cuddle.

Stella McLoughlin

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Updates written by K Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen, Ann Logan, Margaret Carr, Stella McLoughlin, Tvor.

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