2011


Thursday 3 February

Peter is enjoying not having Janice around any more. Leanne tells him he could have been more subtle but Peter reckons she would still have been there in the summer if he hadn't been blunt. He asks Leanne if she'll come to physio with him to see what he's been going through, and they agree to meet up at 11 o'clock.

Fiz is preparing to go to see the solicitor about Joy Fishwick's estate, much to the disapproval of Chesney. "He's expecting to see Colin Fishwick, not some random woman," he tells her. "I'm not some random woman, I'm his wife," says Fiz, worryingly. "Whose though?" asks Chesney. Fiz tells him if she doesn't go the investigator will be back and she doesn't want him digging around. She tells him that whatever Joy has left could make a real difference to Hope's chances, maybe pay for an operation or something. Chesney points out that the real Colin may be there, waiting in the solicitor's office with the police. Fiz looks a bit shocked at this thought and wishes she could talk to John.

Out in the Street, Kevin spots Sally walking along with Hayley and shouts to her that the estate agent has told him about the viewing and what a disaster it was. He wonders what she did to put them off. Sally sees Eddie in front of the garage as he and Tyrone look at his car. "I didn't do anything to put them off did I Eddie?" she says. Kevin is shocked to hear that Eddie was there and wants to know why. "Because I invited him and Anna round for a meal," says Sally. Kevin is furious and says she knew they wouldn't be interested in buying the house once they saw who they were living next door to. "There's no call for that you cheeky beggar," says Eddie. Kevin looks up and sees Tyrone staring at him from the garage. "What?" he shouts. "This'll be at mates rates Eddie," says Tyrone.

Fiz is in the solicitor's office, telling him that Colin has had a nervous breakdown. The solicitor wonders if Colin ever mentioned him, he and Colin's dad used to play cricket together, but he hasn't seen Colin for years, since he was a boy. He then produces a photograph of the cricket team. "You'll recognise John of course." Fiz looks shocked. "John?" she says. "Colin's dad," says the solicitor. Fiz confesses that she doesn't, and then tells him about Hope and how she has a hole in her heart.

Leanne and Nick are working in the bookies when Peter comes in. Leanne goes out to get coffee and Peter tells Nick how he's asked Leanne to go to physio with him, he's hoping to surprise her and show her how he can take a few steps without support.

The solicitor is reading Joy's will to Fiz. There's over eight thousand pounds in a savings account and, apart from a small bequest to a hospice, that and the house and contents all go to Colin. He then tells her for the house and contents he'll need to see Colin and some formal identification, but if she gives him Colin's bank details he will get the cash transferred soon. It's bending the rules, but should be a weight off her mind. "You've no idea," says Fiz. He tells her he has, actually, he and his wife had a premature baby who died, she would have been 30 this year.

Peter has left the bookies and Leanne comes back with the coffee. Just then Janice rushes in, she's sure the burglars are back in her flat, she heard something. Nick says he'll check it out and Leanne says she'll follow. She then tells the punters to leave, she's closing up. (Great way to run a business!)

As Fiz leaves the solicitor, he says he assumes Colin won't be going to Joy's funeral tomorrow. Fiz looks blank. "Funeral?" He asks if she'd like it rearranged, but she says no. He tells her he's put a notice in the Gazette in case there are other family members who might come out of the woodwork. Fiz says she was never introduced to any other members of the family.

Rosie gets a call from Alfie offering her a job tomorrow. She pretends to look in her diary. "Tomorrow is a window of opportunity!" she says down the phone. "Oh, there's a catch? Mother and baby? I'll have a think about it and ring you back."

Nick has checked out Janice's flat. There's no one there, the noise she heard was the bathroom door banging as she'd left the window open. Janice feels stupid and Nick suggests a cup of tea. Leanne says she has to get to physio with Peter, but Nick urges her to stay with Janice. "I'll explain to Peter before I open up," he says.

Up in the flat, Lloyd is waiting to drive Peter to his physio, but Peter's trying to get Leanne on the phone. Just then Nick comes in, the door was open. He tells Peter about Janice's emergency and how Leanne has gone for a cup of tea with her. "Great!" says Peter. "Well, I did try...." lies Nick. Peter says it's not his fault, but he can see where her priorities lie.

After the break we see that Leanne and Janice have finished their cuppa as Lloyd is helping Peter out of the taxi, and Peter asks him if he'll help him up to the flat. Leanne runs over and tells Lloyd she'll take over. Peter snaps at her that he asked Lloyd, where was she when he needed her? She tries to explain about Janice's bathroom window and how she thought it was burglars, but Peter isn't having any of it. "How convenient!" he says, and gets Lloyd to push him away.

Rosie and Jason come out into the Street. Alfie wants Rosie for a mother and baby shoot, she needs a baby! "What about your little brother?" suggests Jason. This has obviously not occurred to Rosie before this moment. "Wait a minute....my dad has a baby doesn't he?" she says, as the penny drops, "what's his name?....er....Jack!" "Why didn't I think of that?" says Jason.

Leanne and a very grumpy Peter are up in the flat. She says she'll accompany him next time, but he says there won't be a next time, he's cancelled his next session. She asks why. He says he wanted to walk down the aisle for her, and if she's not interested he doesn't see why he should put himself through all the hard work. She points out that he hadn't told her he was going to try and walk. "Because I wanted to surprise you!" he shouts. She retorts that she doesn't have time for surprises, she's too busy looking after him and Simon and the woman who brought her up, who for the first time, really needed her. Peter thinks Janice is more important to her than he is. She tells him that's not true. She says she'll go and pick Simon up and take him out for tea, and he should stop being silly and rebook his physio. She slams out of the flat, and when she's gone Peter pulls the vodka bottle out from behind the sofa cushion. He takes the top off and takes a big swig.

With Jason in tow, Rosie goes over to the garage to see Kevin and says that she'd like to spend some time with Jack. She'd like to take him to the park tomorrow. Kevin is pleased, and says it means a lot to him. He tells Rosie she'll have to take all the normal baby stuff, nappies, bottle etc. Rosie says that Jason is the one for all that. Jason points out he'll have to be at work, but maybe she could get Alfie to help. "Alfie? What's he got to do with it?" asks Kevin. Rosie mumbles that she's going to take a camera and if she gets any good shots they might go in her portfolio, so Alfie might be interested. Kevin is satisfied with this and tells her to give him copies of any decent ones. As Rosie goes off he turns to Tyrone who's been listening to all of this with a black look on his face. "Coming round quicker than I thought," says Kevin, grinning.

An obviously drunk Peter is sitting at home with an empty vodka bottle beside him. He picks up his phone and makes a call. "It's me, I need some help," he says.

Down in the bar of the Rovers, Nick takes the call, but tells Peter he's driving down the motorway, he's two hours from Weatherfield and can't help. "Have you been drinking?" he asks. Peter admits he has and says he needs to get out of the flat before Leanne comes back. Nick says he's sorry, he'd help if he could. Peter tells him he knows he would, Nick is the best mate in the world.

Carla comes into the bar with Eileen and Sally and buys the drinks. Along the bar, Deirdre asks Tracy if she wants to go. Tracy doesn't, they might have forced her out of the factory, they're not going to force her out of the pub too. Besides, it might be her last night of freedom. Deirdre tells her not to talk like that, and orders more drinks. In a loud voice, Tracy says she thinks Eileen should get them, as she got Tracy's job. Embarrassed, Deirdre tells her not to be silly. Tracy points out she was assaulted, nearly killed, and her reward was to lose her job. Deirdre hustles her away to a table.

Nick makes a phone call - to Leanne.

Chesney arrives home to hear Fiz on the phone to the bank asking for Colin's latest statement. He's very disapproving, but Fiz's excuse is that it's for Hope. "It went well then?" says Chesney. Fiz tells him how the solicitor is an old family friend. Chesney wants to know if he was suspicious. "Not remotely, no," says Fiz, and goes on to tell him about the house, contents and eight thousand in the bank. She then tells him it's Joy's funeral tomorrow, and she's expected. Chesney looks worried.

Janice and Leanne walk into the pub and are met by Nick. Janice goes off to get the drinks while Nick and Leanne sit down. He says he's sorry to drag her out, she says it's fine, an excuse not to go back to the flat. "Problem?" he asks. She mutters that he could say that, but doesn't elaborate. "What did you want?" she asks. He says he needs the inventory for the bar. She tells him it's in the flat, she'll bring it to work in the morning. Nick, however, says he really needs it now. She sighs, but says she'll have to go back sometime, so she'll have her drink and then go over. He smiles, he obviously can hardly wait.

Deirdre and Tracy are discussing her court appearance in the morning. Tracy is obviously nervous and says she can't trust the justice system. What she did to Charlie is no worse than what Claire did to her. She says she was acting in self defense, but she's seen as the villain and Claire was whisked away to France. Along the bar, Lloyd and Eddie are listening to all this. Lloyd tells her that if the justice system was working properly she'd still be behind bars. Eddie says that what Claire did was wrong. "Thank you," says Tracy, smiling at him. "She should've put more shoulder into it, done a proper job!"

Chesney is trying to dissuade Fiz from attending the funeral, pointing out that there may be people there who knew Colin, knew he wasn't married. Fiz says there might not be, the solicitor had tried to track down other family before he found her and John. She's pretty sure if she doesn't go, he'll turn up at the house again. "He was so desperate to help when he found out about Hope," she says, and she's sure it'll just be her and him and no one else. "And then it's over," says Chesney, "until John gets home and we can decide what to do next."

Leanne and Nick arrive at the flat, but Peter is nowhere to be found. While Leanne goes off to check the bedroom, Nick looks under the cushion and is obviously annoyed when he doesn't find an empty bottle. She comes out and gives him the paperwork he wanted. "You don't think he might be drinking again, do you?" he asks, slyly. Leanne doesn't know. She's glad Simon is with Ken and Deirdre because if Peter is drunk he'll break Simon's heart. She gets upset and Nick, smiling, puts his arms around her and tells her that if Peter chooses the bottle over her, he doesn't deserve her. He tells her to ring Peter, let him know she's worried. She gets out her phone and makes the call. It rings and we then see Peter, somewhere, asleep. A hand reaches for his phone and switches it off - it's Carla.

Anne Logan


Friday 4 February

We begin this Friday night episode with Peter asleep on Carla's sofa. She wakes him and tells him it's time to face the music.

Leanne's getting Simon ready for school and tells him Peter's at physio. Wee Simon spots an empty booze bottle on the floor beside the sofa and nudges it underneath with his foot when Leanne's not looking.

Fiz is ironing and wishes Chesney wouldn't keep money in the freezer. He says it'll be the last place to melt if the house burns down. They argue over Fiz's plans to go to Mrs Fishwick's funeral.

Rosie and Jason arrive at the garage to fetch baby Jack. Tyrone takes a moment to stroke Jack's face tenderly (all together now - "awwwww"). Kevin hands over Jack, his stroller and all the baby paraphernalia to a young woman who, as far as I know, has not seen a nappy since Sophie was a baby! Kevin's written a list but Rosie says people have been raising babies for aeons. "How hard can it be?"

Ken and Deirdre discuss Tracy's appeal (she has none - haw haw. No, really, her court appeal). Ken thinks Tracy's more nervous than she says.

Sophie's watching one of those TV shows where people air their dirty linen in public. She almost ignores Sian when she comes in. Sian's concerned because there are notices up at collage saying anyone with less than 70 per cent attendance will be booted out. Sophie's not worried and reckons she'll catch up. She shouts that she's got personal problems. "I'm living in a war zone!" Sian points out she's living in it too.

Carla's still not at work and Julie is trying to manage the office. She wonders if it's some kind of test and Carla's watching on a webcam. There's a particularly challenging client due for an appointment in half an hour. Julie tries phoning Carla.

Carla doesn't answer. She tells Peter she doesn't begrudge him being there. But she says he chose Leanne. "She's your soul mate. She's the one you should be talking to." She tells him he watched a mate die less than two months ago and could have post traumatic shock or survivor's guilt. She urges him to reach out for some help. "Leanne, she'd understand given half the chance."

Leanne's taken Simon to the senior Barlows' to apologise to Amy for scaring her with creepy stories. Tracy comes downstairs dressed in a dark suit and the two women snipe at each other. Tracy thinks Peter's probably on a bender. She reckons he'll be back by teatime.

Jason and Rosie arrive back with the baby in a car seat carrier thingy. Which is very odd because they left with the stroller and no car seat... in fact, they were supposed to be taking him to the park, so why would Kevin provide one? Rosie's annoyed that she was turned down for the job because she was too obvious. She's never heard "sexy" used as an insult before. Haven't they ever heard of a "yummy mummy"? Rosie thinks Jack was a little star. Jason thinks his cheeks look a little red and Rosie says he probably needs changing. It's Jason's turn. She can't understand why people make such a fuss about babies - looking after them is easy. "It's not as easy as it looks," Jason tells her as he unbundles the baby from the blankets and clothes. Uh oh. "Rosie, the baby we brought home's a girl!"

Steve's collected Amy and Tracy gives her a tearful hug, saying she'll be back in time for Horrid Henry, hot chocolate and hugs. Steve tells Amy she's needed to help Max make chocolate cookies. He wishes Tracy good luck and she says she doesn't need luck because people of good sense will see the truth.

Rosie and Jason scream at each other. Jason gets his phone out. "Don't call the police!" screeches Rosie. Jason's calling the studio but there's no answer (of course he has the number). Rosie says she'll ring Alfie.

Emily's called to give Fiz a wee jacket she's knitted for Hope from a doll's pattern. She sees that Fiz is dressed in black. She asks if she's going to a funeral. Chesney steps out from the house and says they are. Fiz looks very glad. As they walk off, Chesney says he still thinks she's mad but he can't let her go on her own.

Sunita returns Audrey's signboard to her. She found it outside Victoria Court. As they chat, Claudia's new boyfriend, Mark, turns up. Sunita seems quite taken with him. He says he was passing and wondered if he could take Audrey for a drink. "She's busy but I'm free," says Sunita. Audrey laughs and arranges to meet him in the Rovers in half an hour.

Nick thinks Leanne should call the police. Peter might have had an accident. Leanne's sure Peter's gone on a binge. It's the only thing Peter ever hides from her. She still loves him but she's not sure she's got the energy to deal with this.

Hayley's gone round to Carla's to get her to sign something. Before Hayley leaves, she sees Peter. He's calling a taxi and asks Hayley if he can get a lift back. Carla says he's been a lifesaver. "If he hadn't got that wi-fi up and running I think I would have thrown myself out the window."

Betty and Becky talk about Tracy. Nobody's heard anything from the court but Becky hopes they lock her up and throw away the key. She says Liz has come up with a cunning plan to stop Amy hearing folk talking about her mother. She shows Steve they've got flights booked to Spain. She says if it doesn't go well, Amy will need her Nana Liz. "And if it doesn't go well, Tracy'll be up on another murder charge - yours!" Steve tells her. But Becky's booked and paid for the flights and refuses to cancel.

Audrey wonders if Mark has just come to find out the dirt on Claudia. He hopes there isn't any.

Peter's at a group meeting. He tells them he's going to lose everything - his relationship, his little boy. The group leader points out that that's not what happened last time. Peter says Leanne believed in happy endings then. He admits he's been drinking every day. "And I'll drink tomorrow because lying and cheating and failing are the only things I'm good at and Leanne's going to know that now."

Becky and Steve are still arguing. He thinks she's just trying to stick the boot in on Tracy.

Dev comes into the Rovers to be greeted by Owen demanding payment for work on the shop. Dev says he'll drop round a cheque as soon as his new chequebook arrives. After Owen leaves, Steve tries to sell the Spain flights to Dev and Sunita. After the argument between Steve and Becky move the argument to the back room, Sunita smiles at Audrey and Mark, who's appreciating the entertainment.

As Fiz and Chesney take their places in the congregation they meet the neighbour who met John. He calls Colin a useless lump but reckons he'd be like a rat out of a trap when it comes to the will reading.

Rosie's decided they'll have to take the baby and go hunting for Jack but as they get to the door, Kevin comes in. Rosie pleads to be allowed to have Jack for another hour. They try to avoid letting him see the baby but he notices straight away that it's not Jack.

At the end of the funeral Fiz chats to the solicitor. The neighbour heads towards them but Chesney heads him off at the pass.

Leanne and Peter go into the Rovers. She's annoyed at Peter but worries she shouldn't have closed the bookies early. Nick says she's allowed to be human but Leanne worries she's thinking the worst and Peter might be under a bus. Hayley doesn't want to see her fret and tells her Peter was fine and sober when she saw him at Carla's. "What was he doing at Carla's?" Hayley says he was fixing the wi-fi. "All night?" asks Leanne, her face crumpling.

The end of the first episode.
Margaret Carr

Here we are with a very emotion fuelled second episode, the highlight of which was some fantastically written and delivered insults to my least favourite character in the show. I have reproduced these, word for word, for everyone to enjoy later in the report!

But back to the start of the episode which sees Kevin panicking as Rosie racks her brains (yes, that won't take long, I know) to see if she has any contact details for the woman who may have baby Jack. When this route proves fruitless, Kevin grabs the stranger baby and heads out to the studio. If I were Kevin, I'd have considered keeping the newcomer, however. All the while it was being launched about between Kevin and Rosie and enduring heated arguments, it didn't release a whimper. Do such babies exist?

The factory girls and Sean are singing merrily as they 'work' and Julie is calling out for people's cake orders when a murderous Leanne bursts in, followed by a nervous Hayley. Leanne is going to rip Carla apart and Carla greets her. Leanne storms past her and into the office while Hayley urges her colleagues to return to work. I say return, not that they were working in the first place...

Steve is taking Lloyd through the ropes of managing the Rovers in his absence. Steve is explaining that if Tracy gets sent down (which, naturally, is the preferred outcome) then he will buy an extra ticket for Amy.

Leanne is confronting Carla but she adamantly says that this is between Leanne and Peter. She admits that he did say the night but assures Leanne that it's not what she thinks. She goes on to tell her that, after Peter tells her what happens, she wants to come back and smash her face in, then she's welcome to. Leanne storms out, with a look which suggests that she'd be more than willing to take Carla up on this offer.

Chesney is telling Fiz that she was playing a dangerous game with Joy's solicitor. Fiz tells him that when he has a baby and a wife to support then he will understand that when times are tough, desperate measures have to be used to get through. Said with some admirable 'Stape' sincerity too. She becomes more like her husband everyday.

Leanne comes in, to see Peter sitting down. He asks for a chance to explain as he can tell straight away the kind of mood she is. Leanne listens as Peter digs himself into a hole, by saying an alcoholic friend called Rob was in casualty after drink driving. After letting peter hang himself with his own supplied rope, Leanne informs him that she knows he was at Carla's. he regretfully is forced to admit that he has just told a pack of lies and Leanne hits him, saying he can just go to Carla's if he fancies her so much. He tells her he has started drinking again and she looks crestfallen. He explains that he was too ashamed to see her and begged Carla for help. Nothing happened. He breaks down and says he is very sorry. Leanne holds him close.

Sian and Sophie are arguing over Sophie not turning up for college again. Sophie storms off and Sally asks Sian what that was about. Sian reluctantly tells her that Sophie has been skipping college.

Ken and Deirdre walk into the Rovers, watched closely by Steve. His face drops when Tracy swaggers in. Ken and Deirdre tell Steve they want to keep the celebration low key, as if expecting him to set off the fireworks and mount a 'HOORAY!' banner.

Peter asks Leanne if everything is okay. Leanne nods and says everything will be. Peter tells her to blame him, not Carla. If it weren't for her and Nick, then he probably would be in a gutter. Leanne pounces on the name Nick and asks what his involvement is. Peter tells her he had been helping him keep a lid on the drinking. Leanne asks when he started drinking and peter admits it was the night when Nick brought the bottle round. Realisation hits Leanne as it dawns on her what Nick has been up to.

Tracy asks Steve where Amy is. He assures her that Becky is bringing her back. Tracy tells Steve that there is nothing left for her in Weatherfield so she plans to move away with Amy. Steve looks devastated and Tracy apologises before saying she would need something to keep her around. Without thinking, Steve suggests that she has a job in the Rovers. Tracy looks pleased with herself.

Peter is confused at Leanne's anger towards Nick. Peter assures her that he is responsible for his own drinking and nick was only trying to help. Leanne apologises and says that she was just searching for someone to blame. Peter holds her close and says that he loves her and soon he will be the husband that she deserves.

Steve gives Lloyd a drink on the house. Lloyd senses guilt coming from him. Tracy appears behind the bar and tells ken and Deirdre that she wants to celebrate her new job.

Kevin comes back, this time with the correct baby. Rosie is relieved but Kevin calls her irresponsible and tells her to stay away from him and jack for a very long time.

Leanne hammers on the door to nick's home. He pulls her inside and she accuses him of getting Peter drunk. Nick replies that peter is a mess of a man and says that he needs a mother, not a wife. Leanne explodes and attacks him, repeatedly thumping every part of his body that she can reach. She tells him that he makes her feel sick and dirty and Peter is ten times the man he will ever be. She gets close to him and tells him to crawl away and die. Here's hoping that he is good at taking advice.

Simon comes through from his room and asks Peter if he is in trouble. Peter assures him that he's not and he was wrong to ask him to lie to Leanne. Simon asks if he has stopped drinking again and he replies that he has...for good this time. And they will never keep secrets from Leanne again.

Becky comes back with the kids, having had an enjoyable shopping trip. Lloyd is behind the bar, looking nervous. Becky asks for any news on Tracy's trial but, as she crosses her fingers, Tracy walks smugly through. Becky leaps over the bar, grabs Lloyd and demands to know what she is doing behind the bar. Steve hurries through and pulls them apart as Tracy announces that she is head barmaid. Steve asks for a chance to explain. Becky tells him he has two minutes and they go through to the back.

Sally asks Sophie how college is going and Sophie figures out that she has been speaking to Sian. Sophie is angry but Sian assures her that they both just care. Sophie screams that she hates college and it's her life. Rosie then comes in, her face a mess of tears and mascara. Sally comforts her as she wails and Sophie and Sian don't even look at each other.

Steve is telling Becky that they have to keep Tracy sweet as she wants to take Amy away and she holds all the cards at the moment. Becky is upset but realises that Steve is right, they are stuck with her for now.

Peter, Leanne and Simon are sitting eating chips. Peter asks Leanne what she did to her hand and Simon suggests he kiss it better. He does and Leanne gets tearful. Peter asks her what's wrong but Simon wisely informs him that sometimes women cry with happiness. Leanne tells them both that she loves them and won't ever let them down. Peter smiles at her and says he feels like the luckiest man in the world.

But this reporter predicts that this feeling of euphoria won't last long...

So what have we learned?
-You have to be careful with babies
-Janice is the factory's only first aider.
-The only option on the cake run is a sticky bun
-Lloyd has been behind a bar before
-Steve pays rovers staff well.
-Simon is entitled to do the following things if peter ever drinks again: Shoot him, hit him over the head, kick him up the bun. My suggestion would be 'all of the above'
-The following insults apply to Nick: a snake, a worm, a snivelling, selfish little mummy's boy, immature, pathetic and manipulative. What a glorious minute of viewing that was!

Dubious Awards
Mother of the year: "Do you want me to show you how to pull a pint?" Tracy to Amy. Next she'll be offering to demonstrate how to lapdance and clobber boyfriends with statues simultaneously.
Best Terminator Impression: "I'll be back," Becky to Tracy. And it was scarier than Arnie too.
'Takes one to know one' award: "I think she's a little bit confused" Jason, about the wrong baby.
Person least aware of how things work on Coronation Street: "You don't want to make a big scene!" Hayley to Leanne.
Most observant onlooker: "There's something going on there!" Izzy, after Leanne stormed in shouting that she was going to rip Carla's face off.
Biggest medical shocker: "I've aged ten years today" Chesney.
Crudest affair assumption: "What was it? First time you get excited in the trouser department in a while and I'll just go to Carla's to play with my new toy?" Leanne to Peter.
Street's latest superbitch: "Sorry, I've used all the peanut butter." Villain in the making, Sophie.
Conflict expert: "I heard you arguing!" Sally, whose experience in them would allow her to spot a row a mile off
Least convincing ecstasy: "I gather it's good news then" Steve as Tracy walks through the door, a free woman.
Hypocrite of the evening: "We'll be okay if you just stop lying." Leanne to Peter.
Welcome news of the evening: "I can't stay here. I've got to get away!" Let's hope Tracy can take Nick with her.
Most arguable statement: "Nick's done nothing wrong." Peter
Most easily answered question: "How did you end up so selfish, shallow and irresponsible?" Kevin to Rosie. I blame the parents personally.

There we are for another episode. More soon.
This updater now faces the strenuous task of getting a celebration meal together (or ordering a Chinese) as his girlfriend recently agreed to become his fiancée! Just thought I'd blatantly share my good news with you!

Until next time!
Duncan Lindsay


Monday 7 February

Written by JonathanHarvey Directed by Griff Rowland

Peter's lurching around the kitchen making toast for Simon when Leanne comes out. He's noted that she's had a restless night and assures her that the blessing will all go well next week. She doesn't look too sure. Peter has a full day ahead, with a doctor appointment and an AA meeting. Leanne takes a deep breath and launches into her appeal. They need to sack Nick, they don't really need him and... Peter interrupts and firmly puts the kibosh on that idea. They do need him and that's an end to it. She's going to have to get over her problem with Nick. Peter takes full responsibility and doesn't cotton to her theory that Nick made him drink. He did it all himself, Peter insists.

Over at Platt towers, Gail is giggling with David on the phone. David has taken a sudden holiday to Tenerife apparently. Nick is lurking around the house. She sits beside him, gently caressing the cheek next to the lip that's been split open (by Leanne's hand) on it and asks what happened. He makes an excuse about being drunk and falling. She buys it, thousands wouldn't.

Outside, Gary is walking Izzy to work and he's offered to make her tea that evening. He spies Kevin and goes over to ask if he's got a job. None going but he'll keep Gary in mind. Rosie comes out the door across the road and chirps a Hi Dad but Kevin blanks her. Gary returns to Izzy and kisses her goodbye. Anna comes out of her house and asks how he's getting on at Izzy's. She's approving of his quest to get a job and regrets him moving out. She invites him for tea but he's already got plans and agrees to have a cup of tea with her. They make plans to meet up later.

Rosie has dropped in on Sally to have her breakfast because Eileen has run out of cereal. Sally asks Sophie if she's going to school and Sophie is rather rude. Sally's about had it with her and Rosie scolds Sophie for being obnoxious. Sally accuses Sophie of never listening to a word she says (actually, it's the other way around isn't it!) Sophie is belligerent and Sally comes up one side of her about getting education so she won't have to work in a factory like her because she skived out of school. Rosie wants Sally to talk to Kevin about the baby but Sally wants nothing to do with that child.

Tina is complaining to Lloyd about having to work with Tracy who warns her not to start scrapping in front of the punters. Tina reckons she's fully professional. Lloyd wants things to run smoothly. Tina requests Valentine's day off. Lloyd says maybe.

At the bus stop, Sian tries to talk to Sophie who's stressed because she's so behind on her work and won't get any help from the tutors, assuming they'll use her lifestyle against her. Obnoxious little madam, indeed.

Tracy comes into the bar with a toothy and very false grin, as usual. She tries to ingratiate herself with Tina but tells her she's forgotten her name. Tracy may be trying to be nice but it's all coming out wrong as only Tracy can do. "I knew your name was something ordinary", that sort of thing. Tracy even tries to write her performance at Gail's trial off and insists Gail really did confess to her and is cheeky enough to suggest that at least Tina still has her mother alive. That's a 50% isn't it? Why Tina doesn't use some of those cleaning products to spray Tracy's eyes out with the chemical in them, I'll never know. Lloyd enters and Tracy asks him to have Valentine's day off because of Peter and Leanne's wedding blessing. The two barmaids bicker over who gets the day off while Lloyd answers the phone. It's Steve and Lloyd tries to pretend all is well as they continue to argue behind him.

In the betting shop, Peter is teasing Nick about his split lip. Nick continues the pretense about the drunken accident. Peter tells Nick that though Leanne blamed Nick for his drinking, he doesn't. Nick pretends to be feeling guilty and Peter assures him he's responsible for his own actions.

Kevin wants to talk to Sally about Rosie and the baby business. Sally is quite clear about how little she wants to do with Jack, which is not at all, clear on that?

Leanne approaches the betting shop and peers in to see if Nick is there. Carla comes by and they start bitching. Leanne strides in to the office and tells Nick that Peter is at a meeting and her tone is most definitely accusatory. Nick takes a smug attitude. No change there. Leanne tells him she doesn't want him there so she thinks they should just advertise for someone new to work there. Nick springs a surprise on her, he's thinking of going to Italy indefinitely. She doesn't believe him at first but she thinks it's a good idea if he actually does it and hopes he doesn't come back. She strops out again.

In the pub, Tracy insults Tina, but she's only joking, right? Owen arrives and Tracy beats Tina to the bar. Owen appreciates the flirting from Tracy. Gail is sitting to one side of the bar at a table with Sally and making easily-overheard nasty remarks about Tracy. The darts hit the ears for which they were intended and Tracy scowls. There, that's more like her! Tina serves Owen after all and the two of them end up making a bet to see who gets the most tips by the end of the week. You're on.

Outside, Rosie comes sulking to Jason for a hug. Turns out she's got a job in town and she wants Jason to take her into town now. He's working overtime and can't do it so she'll have to take the bus or a taxi. She clops off on her stilettos, accusing him of loving to see her suffer!

Sally is moaning to Gail and Gail is moaning to her. Sally says they both need new fellas. Then they spy a tall rather good looking one at the bar. He greets them and when they say hello, comes over and offers to buy them a drink. Things are looking up!

Gary has had a cuppa with his mum and says there wasn't anything at the job centre aside from a forklift driver at Freshcos. He doesn't think many places will take him with his record. Izzy's there too and asks how the adoption is going. Anna tells them that Faye is coming for the day on the 21st.

This new fella apparently runs his own company. Gail is busy talking to him about it but he seems to be anxious to bring Sally into the conversation. He tells them about the business of marketing. Both women take it in but it's Gail that's smiling widely and flirting a bit while Sally smiles shyly. Jeff, for that is his name, says he's hungry. Gail pipes up "I'm starving!" and Sally reminds her she said she'd had an omelet before coming out. Gail stares daggers across the table. (snort!) Jeff turns and asks Sally out for a meal. Gail looks like she's sucked a sour egg! Jeff goes to the gents' and Gail tells her she's silly if she says no and leaves her to it.

Leanne comes in. Carla is also there. She tries to buy Leanne a drink but is refused. Jeff returns to the table and he asks Sally out for dinner. She isn't sure. She says she's had a recent breakup and would only be a rebound. He points out it's only an offer of fajitas at a place in town. She is finally persuaded. He flatters her and says she deserves to be happy.

Leanne goes into the Ladies' and Carla follows her. Carla insists she's not a bad person and hasn't done anything wrong. Peter needed someone to talk to. Leanne isn't having any of it. Carla assures Leanne that nothing happened but Leanne recalls how Carla let her tell her all about her affair with Nick while having feelings for Peter herself. No innocence there. Carla admits her feelings but tells Leanne not to be such a hypocrite. They argue some more and it's very clear from the conversation what the whole history is. Leanne orders Carla out and she whips round and stalks out, saying "Don't worry, I'm going. The stench of hypocrisy is making me sick!" After she leaves, a toilet flushes and who do you think comes out of the stall? Yep. The worst person possible, Tracy Barlow, Peter's sister. What will Leanne do? Stay tuned!

Tvor

Events in Weatherfield tonight were written by Simon Crowther and directed by Griff Rowland.

We open in the ladies toilet in the Rovers Return where Tracy is calling Leanne a dirty devious tramp in the light of her over hearing about the latter sleeping with Nick Tilsley. Leanne tells her not to jump to conclusions - and Leanne is finished. Tina comes in and tells Tracy off who shoos her away. Leanne promises to tell Tracy everything.

Tina moans to Betty who is coming on duty and Lloyd whom she accuses of being scared of her. He denies it. Leanne and Tracy leave the Rovers and Tina reckons it is the shift from hell.

Anna and Eddie are chatting with Izzy and Gary. Izzy is telling Anna that young girls are more difficult than boys - their magazines, crushes and "friends".

Leanne and Tracy arrive at the flat - Leanne tells Tracy not to call her a tramp or a slag. She then admits she had been sleeping with Nick - but it did not last long and Tracy agreed she had had a similar experience. Leanne says it was over before she married Peter - but Tracy is ignoring that aspect. Tracy says she should not be carrying on behind her brother's back. Leanne explains that Carla did want him - but Peter resisted her advances. Tracy points out that Carla is very attractive. Tracy agrees to do the decent thing - but has a word of warning - do not cross a Barlow.

Rosie is going off on one telling her agent "Alfie" in no uncertain terms that she does not do topless. (This may be true but most of the time she wears so few clothes it is hard to tell). Sophie has had a warning from college and is falling behind. Rosie tells her to pull herself together - it is far more serious that she has been asked to go topless. Poor Sophie - no-one cares. Rosie wants to know where Sally is.

In the next scene we find the answer. She is being wined and dined by Jeff and she is a bit nervous. And he is a bit nervous too. He does not admit to his business which I am starting to find a little suspicious.

Tracy has returned to the Rovers and is not a pretty sight. Tina and Lloyd discuss it and Tina decides to take her on. Tina does not want to work the whole of Feb 14 - but nor does Tracy. Tracy decides she has to leave the pub.

At the Barlows Leanne is telling Ken and Deirdre that Tracy knows. In addition she reveals that Peter is drinking again. Leanne cannot guess what Peter will do once Tracy reveals what she knows.

Tracy hammers on the Platt door and when Nick opens the door she tells him off. Nick is not keen on answering any of her questions - but does want Leanne to be happy. He asks if she is jealous. And Nick realises that Tracy is jealous of the doting husband and son. Nick says that Tracy's first thought was for herself and the fun she can extract from the situation - not for Peter. She storms out.

After the break we return to the Barlow residence where Leanne is leaving and so far it seems that Tracy is keeping the secret from Peter. Leanne reckons she deserves everything she is going to get.

And a few doors along Jason is telling Rosie that she should be nice to Sophie and not tell her to flirt with her headmaster. And Sophie needs to think tactically if she is not going to be thrown out of school. Rosie wants to know where her mother is when she is needed. Jason reassures her that she is more than a topless model - she has more class in her little finger than in the body of a topless model.

Tracy has returned home to tell her parents that Leanne has been having an affair with Nick. Her parents are not shocked because they know it is true but Leanne has married and she is happy with Peter. Ken reveals how he came to find out. They know that Peter is better with Leanne and Tracy claims to be living in the twilight zone. Tracy tries to convince them that Peter needs to know - but they discuss it with her. Simon needs a good mother. Tracy knows that they have both committed adultery and thinks this is the real reason that they do not want Peter to know. Peter comes in and wants to know what he has to be told.

Sally has had the best jambalaya she has ever tasted. Jeff wants to take her to lunch tomorrow. Sally explains the last year has been difficult and it is not easy for her. Jeff says he has had an easy life - but he has never married. Sally says she enjoyed her marriage on the whole - but it is over now. Sally thanks him for the meal.

Nick has phoned Leanne to find out - he offers to be there for her. She knows it is over.

And what does Peter have to know - well Tracy might have to work on Valentine's Day - but will miss the blessing, and even if she makes it she might have to work in the evening - where they will be celebrating.

Jeff brings Sally home and she agrees to go for lunch the next day - she will ask for an extension to her normal 45 minute break. She says it was smashing and he kisses her on the cheek. She has a big smile on her face as she goes indoors.

Peter returns to the flat and sees Leanne watching him. When he gets in he confirms that he has not touched a drop. Peter says the meeting was extended. He talks about sponsoring a newcomer. He reports on the row he experienced earlier - but does not believe the excuse he was given makes sense. Leanne thought he was going to say something awful. She says she had just had a quiet normal evening. Peter tells her he is lucky to come home to her, puts his arms around her and kisses her.

K Richard W


Thursday 10 February

Peter and Leanne are discussing the plans for the reception after their blessing. He thinks she seems a bit distracted, a bit nervous. She says it's the bride's prerogative. He reminds her they're already married, and asks her not to leave himself and Simon waiting at the altar too long. Simon's sure Leanne won't let his dad down and jokingly says he'll keep his eye on her!

Rosie and Jason are in the cafe. Rosie is still outraged that Alfie treated her like a sex object. "With a great body," points out Jason. Rosie declares that she doesn't want to be just a great body, she wants people to be able to see more. "You mean, like, nude?" queries Jason. Rosie huffs and puffs. "You've got a one track mind!" She says she wants people to see Rosie Webster the woman behind the near perfect body, and her agent doesn't seem to get that. Anyway, as from today he can find her some proper gigs or she walks!

Peter sees Nick out in the Street and says he needs a word with him. Nick looks worried, but Peter assures him it's nothing bad and he'll explain later.

Over in the Barlow's, the debate has reopened. Tracy has slept on it and decided that Peter should be told. Ken and Deirdre are very much against it still. "You're asking me to betray my own brother," says Tracy. Deirdre says they're asking her to protect a man who almost died two months ago, a recovering alcoholic, he's very fragile. Tracy says he's vulnerable. "Look!" snaps Ken, "I'll make this very simple for you - utter a single word to Peter and you're on your own." Tracy and Deirdre are shocked but Ken points out that his son has been has been pulled out of hell and he's not going to stand by and let Tracy or the booze drag him back down. "Mam?" Tracy appeals to Deirdre, but Deirdre says that Ken is right.

Just then the door opens and in comes Peter with Simon, and Tracy offers to take him to school with Amy. "You're the best, sis," says Peter.

Sally comes out of her front door and meets Kevin on the pavement. He comments that she looks chirpy, and a bit overdressed for the factory. She scoffs that it's something she just threw on but he notices her best shoes and asks what's going on. "Wouldn't you like to know!" she says as she goes into work.

Waiting at the bus stop, Tracy asks Simon if he's looking forward to the blessing. "I bet Leanne and Daddy are excited too," she says. He corrects her, it's Mummy and Daddy, he doesn't call her Leanne any more. "Is that because she's nice to you?" asks Tracy. Simon says she's nice to everyone. "Including Uncle Nick?" queries Tracy. Simon supposes so, although Leanne doesn't see so much of him now that she looks after his daddy a lot. His dad reckons she's the business. "And what about you, do you reckon she's the business?" asks Tracy. "She's all right, she's me mum," says Simon. Tracy looks thoughtful.

In the taxi office, Cheryl tells Eddie he can have the 21st off work. Lloyd asks why he wants it and is told that they've got Faye coming to stay.

In the factory, Janice and Julie are quizzing Sally about her date. Is he taller than Kevin? Dark or blonde? What's his star sign? Sally says she'll know more after their lunch date, and asks Carla if it's ok if she's a little longer than the usual 45 minutes. Carla tells her to take the full hour and asks where she's going. When she hears the name of the very expensive restaurant she tells Sally to take two hours, and advises her what to order. Sally promises to make it up to her. Julie comes over all sentimental and tells her this may be the first day of the rest of her life!

Peter is in the bookies with Nick, asking him if he'll take charge for a couple of weeks. It's top secret at the moment, but he's booked a honeymoon/holiday for himself and Leanne as a surprise. Nick hesitates and looks as if he's about to refuse. "You'd be doing me a massive favour, please Nick," says Peter, adding that he knows he and Leanne have had their differences. Nick tells him it's nothing to do with Leanne, but the fact is he's resigning, Friday will be his last day. "Tell me you're joking!" says Peter, and wants to know why. Nick says he needs to concentrate on selling the bar because he's moving to Italy. He's been planning it for a while, he has to get away after everything that's happened. Just then Leanne walks in and wonders if she's interrupting anything. Peter asks if she knew about Nick's plan to move to Italy. Leanne stares at him.

Jason is working on the Kabin, watched by Kevin. He tells Kevin that he still feels bad about Jack. Kevin reckons he was naive to think Rosie would care about him. Jason thinks Rosie does care, (really?) but he should give it time. Just then Rosie gets out of a taxi near them, looking distraught. Alfie has dumped her. He told her she was an ungrateful, needy, prima-donna and then next thing she knew she was out of the door. "What? He just went off on one?" asks Jason. "Completely!" wails Rosie. Kevin reckons the bloke needs a slap. "And you were dead polite and respectful, yes?" asks Jason. Rosie hesitates, open mouthed, and then concedes that maybe she was a bit assertive. Just then Sophie and Sian walk by. Sophie has a face like a wet weekend and Kevin asks what's wrong. Sian tells him Sophie has had a fall out with the college principal. "What about?" asks Kevin. Rosie interrupts. "Excuse me!" she cries, "I am having a crisis here!" Kevin turns back to her and a miserable Sophie walks on.

A short time later, Kevin goes into the factory looking for Sally. Julie and Janice tell him she's gone to lunch. Kevin wants to know where, the Rovers? The cafe? Janice tells him he's not even warm. Julie asks if he's tried her mobile, but he tells her it's switched off. They advise him to try back there in a couple of hours, and Janice explains that Sally has gone to a swanky restaurant with her new fella. Kevin is obviously shocked at this news, and walks out, telling them to tell Sally he popped in.

Peter's in the Rovers with Deirdre and Ken and he tells them that Nick's given his notice, he's off to Italy. Peter may have to shut the bookies down for the fortnight he's away. Tracy is clearing tables nearby and overhears. "Ooh, a honeymoon, Leanne's a lucky girl!" she says, coming over. Peter says that Simon is going too, and Deirdre is surprised, she thought they would want to be on their own. Ken says they'd be glad to have him, but Peter wants them to start as they mean to carry on, as a family. Just then Tina walks past. "Got those mixers yet?" she asks Tracy, who glares at her. "What?" asks Tina, "got a problem taking orders from me?" Tracy flounces off. "That's it," grins Graeme, "you show her who's boss!"

Sally and her new boyfriend pull up in Coronation Street in his flash car. She tells him that was the best linguine she's ever tasted. She says she's had a fantastic time and agrees that he can call her tomorrow. She gets out of the car and heads to the factory. Kevin comments on the flash motor and asks who it was. Sally retorts that it's none of his business. He says she could have let him know about her date (!?!) to save him being embarrassed in front of her work mates. She tells him he embarrasses himself. He says he was trying to find her because of the girls, but when she asks why he tells her to ask them herself, if she can fit them into her jet-set lifestyle. (One lunch out and then back to the knicker factory! What planet is this man living on?) Just then Carla pulls up in her car and asks how it went. Sally tells her it was heavenly. Kevin turns away in disgust. "Oh sorry Kevin," purrs Carla, "I didn't notice you lurking there!"

Nick goes to the flat to see Leanne. She tells him he can't stop, Peter will be back at any minute and they have nothing to say to each other. Nick hands her a piece of paper, it's a one way ticket to Milan for her, he's leaving tonight and wants her with him. She stares at him in disbelief.

Cheryl has just finished her first day in the taxi office. She feels she's made a real contribution, but as a valued member of staff she has suggestions to make. The place is a tip and needs a complete makeover. It's a showroom for the business, it reflects the quality of their cars. (Just an observation - their cars are the oldest taxis in use anywhere!) Lloyd isn't keen, and asks how much it'll cost. Cheryl reckons a couple of hundred quid should cover it, it'll be the best investment he ever made. Lloyd sighs.

Back at the flat, Leanne is trying to get rid of Nick. She tells him it's insane. He says marrying a man on his deathbed was insane. He thinks she's with Peter out of guilt, because she feels sorry for him. Leanne insists she loves Peter and she wants Nick to go. He says she's deluded, there are no happy endings here. "And there is in Italy?" says Leanne, and laughs, "and you say I'm deluding myself!" He says they have a chance to start over, no more bad memories. When he came back he thought it was to find himself, now he realises it was to find her. He can't leave without her, he won't. She tells him the old Leanne Battersby has gone, and she screws up the ticket. "Goodbye Nick," she says. Just then the phone starts ringing. Leanne answers it and starts talking to Toyah. Nick slips out of the door behind her. As he goes out of the front door, Peter's taxi comes round the corner.

Sally is at home with Sophie. She demands to know what's going on, so Sophie starts to talk about her problems at college. Just then Rosie bursts through the door, ranting and raving about Alfie. "Oh, don't mind me," says Sophie, as Sally gets up to see what Rosie's problem is. "Thanks for the chat," says Sophie quietly and slips off upstairs. Rosie continues to wail that she's been fired, so Sally says they'll see about that. "Get real Mum," says Rosie, "he practically runs the Manchester modelling scene." Sally says he hasn't met her yet.

Leanne is just finishing her call with Toyah as Peter walks in. She snatches up the screwed up ticket and throws it in the bin as she greets him, and asks if he wants a brew. He asks what Nick wanted, and she lies that she doesn't know, he popped in to see Peter without saying what he wanted. Peter wonders if he mentioned leaving dates. Leanne says that if Nick wants to go they shouldn't stand in his way. Peter says he thought Nick looked a bit upset. "Maybe he's getting cold feet about moving to Italy,£ says Leanne, and goes off for a bath. As he goes to throw his teabag into the bin, Peter notices the screwed up sheet of paper and pulls it out. He stares at it looking puzzled, and then puts it back in the bin.

Anne Logan


Friday 11 February

It's morning in the junior Barlows' house and an invitation has arrived in the post for Simon to attend a schoolmate's birthday party. Don't they just hand them out at school any more? Leanne questions Peter about why he was up in the night and he says his leg hurt. Simon wants to know whether he'll have a baby brother or sister one day. Peter and Leanne fudge their answers. "Who knows," says Peter, looking at Leanne a bit strangely.

Gail hopes Nick isn't going to be moping around all day. She wants to know whether he's going to Italy or not. Nick gets really annoyed at all the questions.

Sally's questioning Sophie. She wants to know about these problems at college. Why has she missed lectures? Sophie explains that it started with just missing a few lessons, getting behind and avoiding lessons even more. She can't talk to her tutors because she doesn't really trust them. The phone goes and Sally answers - it's her new boyfriend, Jeff. Sophie goes out, despite Sally calling her to wait. Sally tells Jeff she had a good time yesterday and he asks if he can see her today. She says it will have to be tonight. They set a place and time.

Tina and Graeme are in the street when Tina gets a text from her friend Xin. She'd suggested to Xin that there was a job going in their favourite Chinese restaurant and Xin has got it. Graeme's pleased they'll have a friend working there and will be able to get extra portions. They meet Tracy and she and Tina snipe at each other about the Rovers.

At the bus stop, Sophie tells Sian about her discussion with Sally. Sian points out she's been giving Sophie the same advice about talking to her tutors but Sophie hasn't wanted to know. She says she's thinking of going on holiday with her mum, to Tangier. It's tomorrow. Sophie's furious that Sian didn't say anything earlier.

"Oh, Eileen, you don't have any lavender tea, do you?" asks Rosie. She appears to be doing some yoga but the effect is a bit spoilt because she's sitting on the sofa while she does them. Eileen says Jason must have had the last of the lavender. Rosie says she needs something to calm her nerves. There's a knock at the door and it's Sally. Rosie becomes tearful telling Sally how awful her day was yesterday. She describes a grubby basement room, with wallpaper falling off the walls, stains on the floor, where she was supposed to sprawl over a filthy sofa. "No wonder Alfie wanted me to have a boob job," she says. Sally's got a good mind to go round and give that Alfie a piece of her mind.

Peter calls round to his dad's house but there's only Tracy in. He wants to ask her what the row was about the other day. Tracy repeats the story about maybe having to miss the wedding. Peter doesn't believe her. He asks straight out if it was to do with Nick Tilsley. Tracy says No but her face makes it clear he's right. He tells her about seeing Nick leave the flat and finding the e-ticket.

Chesney and Garry remove the shabby old chair from the taxi office, followed by Eddie with a dartboard, to Lloyd's alarm. They say they're following Cheryl's instructions. Lloyd rushes in and finds Cheryl painting the walls. He defends the chair, though she thinks it's not worth saving. He's no longer sure a spruce-up is such a good idea. This is confusing. Surely the chair is a leftover from the days when Steve and Vikram started the taxi company? Why should Lloyd be so attached to it?

Tracy tells Peter that if the ticket was in the bin then Leanne had no intention of using it. She tells him to ask Nick about it. Peter tells her forcefully that if she cares about him then she owes it to him to tell him the truth. Tracy admits the argument was about Leanne and Nick. "Because they've been having an affair."

[break, including an advertisement for Canada!]

Tracy's made a cuppa for a tearful Peter. He asks how long it's been going on and she tells him it's since before the tram crash. She says she overheard Leanne talking to Carla. Leanne says it's over but Tracy doesn't know whether that's true. She tells him Ken and Deirdre already knew. "This just gets better and better," says Peter.

Lloyd's still trying to stop Cheryl's renovation madness. Chesney, Eddie and Gary come back in to fetch more "junk" but Lloyd tells them to stop. Lloyd says new stuff will cost money. Cheryl's found an office furniture warehouse. She says it'll look so much better for the punters. Lloyd admits it's starting to look better already. Reluctantly he gives her the go-ahead.

Ken goes into the pub and asks Tracy for a pint. He's been at the library persuading them to keep their copy of the OED*. Nearby, Graeme tells Tina he thinks of Tracy as a sort of spiderwoman and warns Tina not to trust her. Tracy asks Ken if he's seen Peter. Ken says he has - Peter's going to meet him for a drink.

Lloyd gives the clear-out crew directions to the furniture warehouse once they've been to the dump. He's still worried about his easy chair, though. Cheryl's off and leaves Eddie in charge of the switch.

Peter limps into the pub and greets his father cheerfully. Tracy looks puzzled.

Sophie's still having a go at Sian. Sian protests that Sophie has to catch up with her college work and she'll do that better if Sian's not around. "So now you're doing all this for me?" Sian tells her she needs a break from the war zone at the Webster's house. "You don't know what it's like being caught up in the middle of all that." Sophie apologises for giving Sian a home when she had nowhere else to go. "I do love you but I just need to get away. It's a holiday, Sophie. I will be back." She walks away.

Ken and Peter discuss the wedding preparations, to Tracy's confusion. When Ken leaves she asks Peter if he's just going to let it go. "Let's say I'm handling this in the way I think best," he says. She doesn't know what that means but agrees to tell nobody she's told him about the affair.

Sally's getting into a taxi. She tells Rosie she's going to give that Alfie a piece of her mind. Rosie looks a bit fed up.

Graeme's still in the pub talking to Tina. When he leaves, Tracy tells Tina she wouldn't have put her with Graeme. She thinks they're mis-matched and can't understand what Tina sees in Graeme.

Peter's in the street staring at the bookies. Leanne comes along and asks if he fancies a drink. He agrees to go but tells her there's something he has to do first. He'll be about ten minutes.

Sally arrives at the agent's office and tells the receptionist she needs to see Alfie urgently. That won't be possible without an appointment. But Sally barges through and discovers "Jeff" in the office. "Alfie?"

Nick pays out to a punter then Peter comes in and locks the door and turns round the Open/Closed sign. "You and I need to talk," he tells Nick, commenting on how worried Nick looks. "It's about you and me and Leanne." Nick gulps.

The end of the first episode.

Margaret Carr

*Oxford English Dictionary - in 20 volumes.

Nick looks worried as peter comes through but all peter asks is for him to be best man. He credits Nick with everything he has got going for him now and wants him there. Nick says that it wouldn't feel right but peter insists and asks Nick to meet him in the Rovers later.

Sally is yelling at Jeff and calling him a lying sleazebag. But Jeff urges her to hear him out.

Eddie brings Lloyd's mucky chair back into the office. Lloyd tells Cheryl that it is like a part of him and he can't bear to throw it away.

Leanne comes home. Peter is sitting in the dark. He tells Leanne he has a surprise for her which will make the blessing perfect...Nick is going to be the best man.

Jeff tells Sally that Rosie has given her the wrong story and the glamour shoot was very professional and not sleazy. He offers to drive Sally home.

Peter is telling Leanne how he feels so lucky thanks to Nick. Leanne points out that he is hardly a close friend but tells peter reluctantly that if it makes him happy then Nick can be best man. As she gets out of earshot, Peter phones Carla.

Sophie is crying as Sian heads off. Sian tells Sophie to focus on college and family before getting onto the bus.

Peter and Leanne arrive at the Rovers. Tracy looks disgusted as Peter tells her that Nick is going to be the best man.

Gail isn't listening as Audrey moans about Claudia and Marc. Gail reminds her that it's the anniversary of Joe's death. Graeme overhears.

Leanne takes Nick aside and she tells him she wants him to be no part of her day. He points out that they have little choice. Leanne worries that Tracy will spill the beans to Peter.

Eddie drops Rosie, who is dressed up as a chicken, off. She finds Sophie sitting upset on the bench and takes her home. Sally pulls up with Jeff and Rosie is horrified.

Peter orders champagne and asks for three glasses. Carla arrives and awkwardly sits down. There is a tense atmosphere as Tracy serves the champagne. Peter looks at everyone and says it's time they all had a little chat.

Peter tells everyone that he wants them to put the past behind them. Leanne should forgive Carla...after all she was there for Peter and Peter remained faithful. Carla and Leanne reluctantly apologise to each other before Peter thanks Nick for being a true friend.

Graeme tells Tina that he has booked a table at a fancy restaurant. She snaps at him as they can't afford it.

Rosie and Sophie are horrified to discover that Sally is seeing Jeff. Sally puts her foot down and declares that she isn't prepared just to be their maid...she deserves a life too.

Nick and Carla both leave. Peter asks Leanne why she is angry but she assures him that she is fine.

Cheryl unveils a cleaner, more professional looking office to Lloyd. He is impressed.

Tina apologises to Graeme and suggests that they have a lower key meal at a Chinese buffet where her friend, Xin works. As they share a kiss, Leanne tells peter that she wants tomorrow to be the happiest day of their life. She heads off to Janice's and Tracy asks Peter what's going on. He replies that she will find out soon enough.

Cheryl tells Lloyd she fancies a new start and has her eye on the Webster house that's for sale. She tells Lloyd that she loves him and he returns the statement before they kiss.

Sophie is sitting outside. Sally tells her that she won't stand for anymore silly behaviour. Sophie opens a valentine's card from Sian and smiles to herself.

Peter is sitting alone and Leanne phones. She tells him that she loves him and there is a long and painful silence before he says he loves her too. After she hangs up, Peter almost has a drink of wine but he then pours it all down the sink and puts his face in his hands...

Duncan Lindsay


Monday 14 February

Written by Chris Fewtrell Directed by Ian Bevitt

Janice has bought a large wedding card for the happy couple but Tracy, seeing her on the street, warns her not to sign it too soon. She hints that anything could happen. Janice thinks Tracy is being a cow as usual and skips off just as Nick comes along. Oh good, more fodder, Tracy's probably thinking. She makes a few sarcastic remarks about him being the "best man" but he's not in the mood and, telling her she's probably got better things to do, like drowning kittens, storms off.

Simon has made a card for Leanne with daffodils on the front. Peter is quiet. He tells Simon he loves him as the doorbell rings. It's Auntie Tracy. He tells Simon, with a bit of foreboding that goes right over the lad's head, that whatever happens, he always wants the best for him. Peter sends Simon into the shower and Tracy brings the flowers in. She thinks Peter is going ahead with the blessing and tells him he is better than that. He assures her he knows what he's doing.

Sophie's had a Valentine card from Sian. Sally urges Sophie to go into college but she doesn't seem inclined. Sally knows Sophie is missing Sian but reminds her that Sian is her first love, probably not her last. Education is more important than a love that probably won't last. Sophie takes exception to this and makes a few pointed remarks about Sally's new fella Alfie or Jeff or whoever. Sally tells her to go to school and gets off to work. I don't think she's going.

Maria is doing Leanne's hair and Janice is offering up a slug of booze. No thanks. Leanne portents doom by saying that she and Peter have made mistakes and come out the other side in good shape. Maria and Janice muse that they both just keep making bigger mistakes.

Gail has got a card from David from Teneriffe where he mentions people in cages. She's confused (wait, don't some women dance in cages??). Gail wonders why Nick looks so funereal going to a wedding. Well it *is* his ex-wife after all but Peter insisted. Nick says he can handle it and seems to still be making plans to go to Milan.

Carla leaves Julie to supervise while she and Hayley are off to the blessing. Jeff comes in, arms full of roses for Sally. Eileen and Sean and tickled rosy pink! Jeff has booked a table for them but Sally doesn't think it's a good idea. She tells him neither of her daughters are very keen on this relationship. Jeff tells her she should put herself first and she sees reason but offers to cook for him at her place instead. Sorted.

Tracy is back at Number 1. Deirdre and Ken are glad Tracy didn't tell Peter (so they think) and tell her so. Tracy keeps schtum in spite of their praise.

Frank the new buyer has arrived at the factory for a meeting that Carla had cancelled through his secretary last week. Sorry, she's out sick and he didn't check the schedule. He looks forward to seeing the glam Michelle but that's off too, since she's also gone sailing the seas with her hunky boyfriend. They make plans to meet later at the Rovers instead.

Simon has a suit on with a red rose buttonhole. He gives the homemade card to Peter to give Leanne so she won't be mad if he's forgotten one. He hugs Simon emotionally. The doorbell rings and it's Nick. Peter sends Simon downstairs as Nick comes in. Peter is quiet and declines Nick's offer of help. He's done more than enough already. Nick, sadly, doesn't catch the loaded remark, as he doesn't realize, of course, that Peter knows everything. He goes back downstairs and Peter looks at the card, snorts and tosses it on the table. Oh, I don't think this is going to be a happy day, do you?

After the break, we've been relocated to the church. Some of the guests discuss the program and music. Roy imparts his extensive knowledge about the Baroque piece of music intended to accompany Leanne down the aisle. Norris notes it's the same as Diana used when she married Charles. Not a good sign. (You don't know the half of it!) Chris and Maria sit down behind Cheryl who is sitting alone, remarked upon by Chris. Cheryl mutters that Lloyd is chauffeuring the groom. Dev and Sunita are shivering in the cold church and talking about the new shop and finances. Sunita mentions the insurance and Dev changes the subject. Hmmmm... Deirdre wonders if there's time for a smoke and wishes Blanche were here to see this day. (And wouldn't she love the spectacle that's to come!) Tracy doesn't think they should be tempting fate.

Outside, Lloyd has arrived with Peter, Nick and Simon. Peter is a bit wobbly but insists he can make it up the aisle without the help offered. He then looks at Simon, sends Nick inside to check on things and then asks Simon to wait in the car with Lloyd for a bit. Peter has to sort out some things first and promises he won't miss anything good. He tells Lloyd it's important, could he please take the car around the corner, too, so Simon doesn't see Leanne but he doesn't elaborate.

Tina and Graeme have arrived at the Golden Panda where her friend Xin (pronounced Sheen, as if we didn't have enough S-names already with Sean and Sian, Sally and Sophie!) works. It's a buffet restaurant and Graeme is eyeing the food and salivating already. She tells him he is restricted to three visits lest he embarrass her. Graeme hopes Xin isn't going to be hanging about as he wants some quality time. Tina tells him that they used to have a great time when they worked at the pound shop together. She spies her friend and they hug but Xin is in tears.

Peter and Nick enter the church. Nick makes sure Peter's ok, and Nick assures him he is just fine. When asked about Simon, he says the boy has gone to the loo. "You know what kids are like? Sorry...you don't, do you" and Peter is getting a bit antsy, I think, anticipating. Anticipating what? Walk with me...

Peter gives Nick the crutch and declares he's on his own two feet. He makes his way slowly and unsurely up the aisle, holding on to the ends of the pews now and then. There are admiring glances. Concern from Ken and Deirdre especially when they spy Nick with him. Peter stumbles a bit but is ok.

We're in the pub. Rosie is involved with her phone and has seen a tweet (Twitter) from a friend who was attending the grand re-opening of the tram line that was wrecked. Betty is listening and has no clue what Tweeting is about. Rosie attempts to explain but it's no use. If I didn't know already, I probably wouldn't really know from her explanation either. She turns around quickly and bumps into Jeff/Alfie and a drink is spilled all over him. He suggests they put their differences behind them and she can work for him again. He points out that her mother is due a bit of fun anyway. That seems to make Rosie think. Briefly.

Leanne has arrived at the church. She's got a long strapless sheath dress on with a little train behind. She's carrying red roses. Her hair is down and curled and she's got a waist length veil, held by a little pearly tiara and Janice helps her put some of the veil over her face as they ready themselves for the procession. Janice excitedly says Leanne will remember this day for the rest of her life. (In more ways than one).

The music starts and Leanne and Janice go slowly down the aisle. Everyone turns and watches except Peter. He asks Nick how Leanne looks, he's guessing gorgeous. Nick admits she looks lovely. Peter coldly declares that he's a lucky man. Nick reluctantly agrees. Why does it feel like everyone is about to go off a cliff? Probably because they are. It sounds like the organ hits an off note just before it finishes. Peter tells Leanne she looks beautiful. She's all smiles and excitement. Peter tells her that Simon had an upset tummy but will be ok, to explain the boy's absence.

The vicar greets everyone and begins. Peter's face looks like thunder.

Back to the restaurant, Xin is telling Tina that she's not been able to get a job in her qualified profession, a psychiatric nurse. The job at the restaurant isn't much and she's in debt. Graeme is more concerned with getting fed, much to Tina's annoyance. She finally sends him off to the buffet while she comforts her friend.

Sally arrives home with her roses to find Jeff waiting outside the house with a bottle of wine. Kevin glares from the garage and asks Sophie who the suit is. Sophie explains it's Rosie's former boss, Alfie/Jeff (Jalfie?) and he's dating Sally. Kevin's face falls.

The choir is singing. The ceremony continues. The vows are about to be recited. Or re-recited. Peter interrupts. He takes an envelope out of his jacket and presents it to her as a Valentine's Day present. He turns and tells everyone what the envelope contains, divorce papers!! Why? Well... "Good, old-fashioned adultery. With who, you might ask? No other than Nick, here, my trusty best man!! Better than me, obviously!"

The congregation gasps, Leanne's face crumples into tears.

Tvor

Events this evening were written by Chris Fewtrell and directed by Ian Bevitt.

Well what a blessing this is turning out to be. Peter has decided to let the congregation into a few juicy secrets as it turns out that Nick and Leanne had been going at behind his back for months. There is an anguished "Nooooooo" from big gob Janice, who tells Peter that she loves him and that little lad. Peter tells Leanne to admit the truth. Leanne says she made a terrible mistake and she is really sorry. Peter refuses to submit to her begging - she was the love of his life and a kid who adores her. He calls a whore - saying that is they behave. Nick stands to stop the torrent as does Ken - but Peter silences both of them - he has hardly started.

Even Norris reckons that the Barlows are value for money at a wedding!

The vicar tries to stop Peter - but he wants to tell the truth - he claims she lying in hospital - "till death do us part" - which she was expecting to be later that night - but he disappointed her and came out the other end. Leanne tries to tell him he is wrong.

Peter now decides to advise everyone about who helped him fall off the wagon - with the odd bottle of vodka or three. Norris and Roy make to leave but Peter orders them to sit down - he has hardly started.

As light relief we join Sal and Jeff where she is apologising for the state of the house, but she did not know she would be entertaining. He reckons his flat is worse. Sophie arrives back and turns the tv on - and asks if Jeff is staying long. Sophie and Sal argue and the former stomps upstairs.

Peter reveals that both Ken and Dreary knew and that they both kept quiet - in Ken's view in Peter's best interests. Dreary says it was over by the time they found out. But as Peter says they should not maintain silence - after all look at their own history. Janice points out that Peter has not been whiter than white (well bigamy is similar to having an affair - he was just married to both of them). Peter admits he has spent a lifetime fighting his genes and says he would have been faithful and asks Carla to confirm the truth of it - she looks up as the congregation look at her - and as Peter observes a cracking looking bird and remember Leanne's best friend. After all whilst Peter and this tart (pointing at Leanne) were planning this wedding Carla was doing her best to get him into bed. She told him she loved him - so much that when she found out about the lovers she kept it to herself. Carla leaves church and Peter tells them to enjoy the reception and to have one for him.

Maria follows Carla out to check she is alright. Maria shows sympathy to Carla despite their history and she says she did not want it to happen - and now she has paid the price. Carla collapses sobbing - she recalls the night Liam died and Maria puts her arm around her to comfort her.

The Street dwellers leave the church with Norris sounding off. Simon emerges from the car and wants to know what is going on. He wants to know if missed it. Deirdre tells Simon not to worry and Lloyd takes the older Barlows and Simon home.

Inside the church the exocet missile also known as Tracy Barlow is launched at full power at Leanne and Nick for what they have done to her brother, Peter is looking completely exhausted by the strain of the events. Leanne answers back but Tracy admits that she confirmed events when Peter found the ticket to Milan. Nick takes Leanne's arm to take her away and she turns on him - has he not already done enough damage? It is all his fault. Leanne accepts that Peter was entitled to say all that he did - she had earned it. Tracy weighs in again but Peter tells her to go home. He will see her later. Leanne tells Nick to go as well.

Mark turns up to say hallo to Rita - what is he playing at? The wedding party arrives and Norris has pleasure in reporting events to the people in the Rovers.

Back at the church Peter and Leanne tell each other about their hurts from events - hers from his behaviour. The affair was over months ago - she wants Peter and Simon - the vows in hospital were true. Peter will never be sure that when they married she was not secretly hoping for his death. As he says it will never be over between Leanne and Nick. He gets into the car but she will not let him walk away from her today and runs after him and gets into the other side of the car.

After the break Cheryl and Lloyd look at Kev - and then ask if they can have a look round the house. Kev wants to sell and he agrees to take them round immediately. Kev reckons the time is perfect.

Sal and Jeff are enjoying a laugh and dinner - over dinner with candles - when Kev arrives and turns the lights on. Kev starts describing the house when Sal drags in for a chat. Kev did not know that she had a visitor but if she did not like it, then tough!

In the car Leanne and Peter argue - but neither of them can explain why they have behaved as they have. Leanne cannot understand his behaviour - there are 8 different Peters when he is on the booze - and Leanne knows nothing can hurt her more than losing Peter. She tells him that the only people he has really hurt are himself and the little boy they both love - Simon.

Kev is still showing Cheryl and Lloyd the house. Sally tries to ignore Kev but Kev reminds her that Jeff was the one that wanted Rosie to have a boob job and to take her clothes off because he his money comes from unpleasant sources. Jeff takes offence and squares up to Kevin. Lloyd and Cheryl are looking distinctly uncomfortable at this point. Lloyd tries to calm down Kev - but he continues to sound off. Sal and Kev argue, Lloyd and Cheryl depart. Sal and Kev continue to argue until Sophie stomps downstairs and asks how long this is going to go on for. Sal also tells Jeff to go. Kev says that whilst he is paying the mortgage she cannot just see other men. Kev goes and Sal blows out the candles.

Tracy confirms to her parents that she confirmed the affair and she reckons she has done Peter a favour.

Audrey, Nick and Gail discuss events when Janice storms in to tear Nick off a strip. She calls Nick "scum" and Gail tells her to get out. After a few more choice words Gail prevails and Janice goes outside to see Leanne and Peter arguing. Leanne is still trying to talk Nick round and despite her best efforts she is unable to convince Peter to forgive her. He almost gives in - almost kisses her but then he tells her that he despises her, he never wants to see her, never wants to hear about her and wants nothing to do with her. Indeed the bouquet in her hand could be a wreath for all he cares. He goes and Janice moves to comfort the deflated and sobbing Leanne.

See you all soon.
K Richard W


Thursday 17 February

Janice walks into her kitchen in the early morning darkness to find Leanne on the sofa. She's awake and she hasn't been to bed. Janice urges her to phone Peter again. Leanne says it's no good, he won't talk to her. "So text him," says Janice. Leanne just sighs.

Over in the flat, Simon won't eat his breakfast, he wants to see Leanne. Peter tells him we can't always have everything we want, and life isn't fair. "You left me in the car!" accuses Simon. Peter says he knows he did. He sits down and tells Simon that from now on it's just going to be the two of them, and they're going on holiday next week. "With Leanne?" asks Simon. Peter tells him no, not with Leanne. She's gone, she let them down, she let HIM down and he can't ever trust her again. "Yeah, but...." begins Simon, but Peter stops him and snaps that he's the dad, it's his decision, Simon will just have to lump it. "Now eat your breakfast," he says. "No!" says Simon.

Over at the Gail's house, Nick sits morosely at the table. Gail asks if he wants to talk, he doesn't. She asks if he wants breakfast, he's not hungry, and gets up and walks out.

Sophie is reading a letter as Sally walks in. Sophie hastily puts it away as Sally waffles on about fillings for sandwiches. Sally then apologises for the night before, saying she shouldn't have brought Jeff there, and they've decided to cool it for now. What the family needs is a bit of stability. Sophie listens silently. "You can talk to me you know," says Sally, and offers to make her sandwiches. Sophie still says nothing.

Maria goes into the factory to see Carla, she says she's come to see if she's all right. Carla asks if she's sure she wants to be seen with her, people might think they're friends or something, but asks Maria if she'd like a coffee.

Peter goes to Ken and Deirdre. He asks if they'll babysit. They agree, and Deirdre asks how he is. Peter says that Simon's angry, he blames him. They point out that Simon's whole world has been turned upside down. Ken tries to say he's sorry but Peter is angry too and brushes him aside. Ken asks if he's drinking. Peter tells him it's not Ken's problem any more, it's his and he's handling it in his own way. Then he tells Ken and Deirdre that Leanne is not allowed to see Simon under any circumstances.

Sophie is in the cafe with Sunita, who has just read Sophie's letter. "This explains why you're not at college," says Sunita. Sophie is very mixed up, she's living in a war zone with all the fighting between Kevin and Sally, and Rosie and Sian have gone. Sunita urges her to go and talk to her mum.

Claudia is in the Rovers having a heart to heart with Rita and Audrey. She's having problems with a widower she's been seeing. He's blowing hot and cold, she thinks there's something going on that he's not telling her. "Perhaps he fancies someone else?" says Rita. Audrey looks uncomfortable.

Peter sees Nick let himself into the work in progress that is the wine bar, and then follows him.

Sophie has phoned Sally and she meets her outside in the street. "I hope this is important," says Sally, and then asks why she's not at college. Sophie confesses that she got kicked out. Sally explodes. "Haven't we got enough on our plate?" she cries, and then takes Sophie by the arm and takes her into the house.

Nick wanders round the wine bar and then hears the door shut behind him. He turns to see Peter lock it and hold up the key. Peter thinks it's time they had a little chat. He tells Nick he ought to be worried, every time he comes into the bar some disaster happens. "Get out, or I'll call the police," says Nick, nervously. "And say what?" says Peter. He picks up a crowbar and bangs it down hard. "You're insane!" says Nick. Peter asks who it was who tipped him over the edge. Nick tries to get past him but Peter bangs the crowbar down again. "What do you want?" Nick is visibly shaken. "How about revenge?" says Peter. Nick thinks he wouldn't dare, but Peter waves the crowbar. "Try me!" So Nick holds up his hands and suggests they chat. He sits down and Peter pulls out a bottle of whisky from his coat. Nick tells him he doesn't need it, but Peter thinks that's rich, the man who pushed him off the wagon to wreck his marriage is now telling him to avoid the evils of drink? "Best excuse in the world, this, for doing bad things." He loosens the cap and then throws the bottle to Nick, urging him to drink. Nick protests but Peter insists, so Nick takes a swig out of the bottle. Peter tells him to drink more. "You think if I drink one bottle of whisky that'll turn me into an alcoholic? Is that your revenge?" says Nick. "No," says Peter, edging closer. "It's anaesthetic."

A pale and shaken looking Leanne knocks on the Barlow's door. She tells Deirdre she's tried the flat and she's tried ringing, but Peter's not answering, she knows how he feels about her but she still loves him and Simon. She asks if she can speak to Simon, to explain to him what happened, but Deirdre tells her Peter told them not to let her see him. Leanne gets tearful and Ken tells her she put them all in an impossible situation and they're not going to let Peter down again. "Where is he?" asks Leanne. Ken tells her he's getting on with his life and suggests she does the same. They shut the door, leaving a crestfallen Leanne out on the pavement.

Back in the bar, Peter asks Nick why he came there. Nick admits he came to think. He's lost Leanne twice now, but for a moment she was his again. He tells Peter that the night of the stag do she was his, and she was never going to marry Peter. She was worried about him, but she didn't want him, she wanted Nick. Peter turns and throws a brick at him. Nick manages to duck and it just misses his head. "You can do what you like, but there'll always be something special between me and Leanne, first love," he says. He says that when he came back and saw Leanne again he knew the spark had never died. Peter just brought out the mother in her, the protector, but look at him - he's a wreck, a shell, a charity case, and their relationship was based on pity. Peter looks crushed and Nick looks smug and, smirking, puts the whisky bottle down beside him. Peter picks it up and looks as if he might drink, but then sees Nick's face and throws it at him with force. A tram passes overhead. "Sounds like normal service has been resumed, pity the same can't be said for us,"says Nick, and suggests they leave, it's not doing either of them any good. Peter then seems to collect himself, he disagrees, this is like therapy for him and seeing Nick's screwed up, frightened little face is making him feel much better. "I'm not frightened of you," says Nick. Peter tells him he should be. "Why, what are you going to do?" Nick looks worried. "I'm going to kill you, that's what I'm going to do," says Peter.

Janice comes home and finds an emotional Leanne wondering what is wrong with her. Every time she finds happiness she just messes it up. Janice tells her that everyone messes up sometimes, she has and Peter has. Leanne says she can't stay, Peter hates her, everyone thinks she's a cow and now she's been banned from seeing Simon. She'll go to London and stay with Toyah. Janice urges her to stay, where she's safe, she's worried that if she goes to London she'll never see her again. "I don't want to lose you," she says. Leanne tells her she'll never lose her.

Back in the Joinery, Nick asks Peter, "What about Simon?" Peter says his dad and Deirdre will look after him, and he reckons a jury would have a lot of sympathy for him. It would be considered a crime of passion, Nick plied him with booze and seduced his wife. Tracy killed a man once and got away with it, maybe getting away with it runs in the family. Peter reckons he's got nothing to lose anyway. His dad thinks he's back on the booze, his wife cheated on him, he's ashamed that a gutless nobody like Nick got the better of him. He's not scared of prison because knowing Nick's dead will make the days fly by. Nick tries to make a run for it and Peter whacks him hard on the leg with the crowbar. Nick rolls on the ground, clutching his leg and yelling. Peter stands over his and prods him with his crutch, telling him his biggest mistake was not leaving him to die when he had the chance. "Now close your eyes and say a prayer," he tells him as a tram rattles overhead. "Perfect timing, scream as loud as you like!" He crashes the crowbar down - onto a beer can! Nick lowers his arms and looks up. Peter tells him the only reason he's still living is because he saved his life, but warns him never to cross him again. "Or I will kill you - do you understand?" Nick nods, and Peter throws down the crowbar and limps off out of the door.

Anne Logan


Friday 18 February

Hello to all of you not caught up in earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and to those of you who are but who have managed to keep a working internet connection through it all...

We begin this Friday episode with Nick almost being tripped by Graeme's ladder. Nick looks thoughtfully at the ex-bar under the viaduct and Audrey stops to tell him he can always talk to her.

Leanne finishes a phone call with Toyah just as Janice comes from the shower. Leanne's not hungry. She's going to Peter's then later Toyah will meet her off the train in London. Janice pleads with her to stay and move in with her.

Sophie comes downstairs to find Sally slumped on the sofa. Sally says she's spoken to the college and she's made an appointment with a woman there. Sophie shouts that Sally has to get it into her head that she doesn't want to go back there. The thought of it makes her physically sick. Sally thinks Sophie's just built it up in her head. "Once you get back into a regular routine it'll be fine." Sophie thinks the only people it will be fine for are Sally and Jeff. She thinks she's just a teenager getting in the way of Sally and her new bloke.

Leanne meets Ken at the door to Peter's flat. She tells him all she wants to do is pack her bags and go. Ken says Peter is hurt and humiliated. Leanne's tearful and explains that she realises what she's done to everybody.

Tina tells Graeme she might not see him at dinnertime. She's meeting Xin, who has problems with her landlord.

Leanne goes into the flat and tells Peter she's come for her stuff because she's getting the 4pm train to London. She warns him to be careful not to get run down. Peter tells her nastily that he's made a start and hers is the stuff in black bin bags. "And I want everything gone by the time Si gets in from school."

Gail's surprised Nick's going out. They get a text from David in Tenerife. She says when Nick goes she'll have three kids abroad. Nick says he's just going on a business trip. He's got a business to run.

Leanne's got all her stuff. She tells Peter he just has to say the word but she's not begging. "Will you let me see Simon just one last time?" Peter thinks it would only be for her benefit. "If you love him as much as you claim to love him then do him a favour - slip off without making a scene so he barely notices you've gone." This angers Leanne. But Peter says Simon comes first. Leanne gathers her bin bags and wheelie case and struggles out with them.

She meets Nick at the front door. She tells him she's leaving, going to London and never coming back. And she never wants to see him again. He tries to help her carry everything and she becomes furious because he doesn't seem to realise she means it. She cries and tells him she's sorry they couldn't all be happy. But as soon as that train pulls into London she'll have him out of her hair forever. Nick tells her he's lonely but she says there are worse things. As Nick walks off, looking glum, he notices Peter has been watching from the upstairs window.

Lloyd arrives at the garage to tell Kevin he and Cheryl are seeing a mortgage advisor because they want to buy the house. As Lloyd leaves, Sally arrives to tell Kevin about Sophie being kicked out of college and to ask for his help. Apparently Sophie hasn't handed in an assignment since Christmas.

Nick arrives for a chat with Audrey and tells her he wanted Leanne to go away with him and now she's gone to London. Audrey doesn't see why he should give up a good business and slink away. His family needs him. Nick agrees with her that Peter needs telling that he doesn't get to call the shots with Nick.

Steve, Becky and Max arrive home from holiday. The pub is almost empty and there seems to be nobody behind the bar. Becky's sure it's because Tracy's working there and scaring people away. Lloyd comes up from the cellar and they ask where all the punters are. Tina and Xin are in one of the booths and Graeme comes in. Becky asks Lloyd about Tracy but he says she's been as good as gold. "She's been quite . . . human," he says, to Becky's disbelief.

Kevin chats to Sophie in the cafe and apologises for not thinking what all the strife was doing to her and to Rosie. Sophie insists she doesn't like the subjects or the people and would be better off in the outside world. Kevin tells her she's an adult and being an adult means playing the long game and doing something she doesn't want to do now because it will pay off in the future. Sophie tells him he's just saying that because Sally told her to. She gets up and leaves.

Tina, Xin and Graeme are now at a pub table. Xin hasn't found a job yet. She qualified in July 2009. Steve is off to take Amy her gift and Becky tries to persuade him to help getting all the unpacking and laundry sorted. He rightly picks she doesn't want him going near Tracy but he promises to be back soon. Xin is living on noodles and toast because the landlord refuses to fix the cooker.

Steve greets Amy next door and Ken tells him to come in.

Tina, Graeme and Xin say goodbye outside the pub. Then Tina tells Graeme Xin is still wearing the same coat she had at the pound shop and refused the offer of a jumper. They agree they'll invite her to have their spare room.

Steve chats with Amy and Ken. He sees Amy has a new toy and she says they got it at the zoo. Ken says Tracy's been very generous with her wages since getting a job. There's a prominently placed picture of a young man on a side table. Daniel? Is this the hint of a storyline to come? Oh, wait, there's one of Uncle Albert on another table, so maybe not . . . Steve knows that bar work isn't exactly Tracy's dream but Ken says things are better when she's kept busy.

Tina and Graeme dash over to the bus stop to tell Xin about their good idea. Her rent was due last week and they plan for her to do a runner.

[/hanky mode on] Leanne's walking with Janice, clearly on her way to the station when they see Simon with Deirdre and Ken. He screams Leanne's name and dashes over to see her. He tells her Deirdre had to take him to the dentist because Leanne forgot and asks Jan if she's going on holiday. Leanne tearfully tells him she's the one going away. "I'm going to live in London." Simon's hurt she was leaving without saying Goodbye. She says it's because she's a coward and because she messed things up with his dad. "You didn't mess things up with me" he says plaintively. Leanne tells him she couldn't stand to see his little face when she told him. "But you're Leanne. You're my mummy." Leanne tells him she isn't any more. But he mustn't cry because his daddy's got enough love to make up for her going. Peter arrives and says that's right. Simon shouts at Leanne that she's horrible and isn't his proper mummy anyway.

As Simon is taken away by his grandparents, Leanne, weeping, accuses Peter of turning Simon against her. She asks if he's prepared to live with the fallout of Simon being devastated. She goes to walk away and he says gently: "Leanne." Then harshly: "Keys." Leanne's face briefly lifts at the first word then crumples again at the second and she hands over the keys to her old life.

The end of episode one.
Margaret Carr Peter is looking in deep thought and anger. He throws the keys he is holding across the room.

Ken and Deirdre are trying to offer comfort to an upset Simon. Ken assures him that both Peter and Leanne love him but Simon tells him to shut up as he hates his daddy.

Becky asks Steve whether he had a chance to speak to Tracy about sacking her. He tries to change the topic to Amy but Becky figures out that he mustn't have spoken to her. He promises to speak to her when she comes into the rovers later.

Leanne is about to climb into her cab. Janice tries to persuade her to have a rethink before insisting on going to the station with her. Leanne says that she will be okay as she has a long wait until the train and Janice would get in trouble for missing work. Ken comes over and tells Leanne that the only chance she has of making things up with Peter is by sticking around. Leanne tells him that she needs to have a fresh start and gets into the cab. As it pulls away, Ken looks up to peter's window to see him watching.

Steve and Dev are gossiping about Leanne's affair with Nick. Dev comments to Steve that Tracy didn't seem at all surprised and Steve sighs that her name is at the centre of all trouble.

Graeme tells Tina that Xin is getting a key cut. He tells Tina that they should tell Dev that she is going to be staying in the flat, seeing as he has been so good to them.

Ken has called round to peter's and is lecturing him about throwing away potential happiness. He tries to persuade Peter that he can change his mind and it is possible to forgive. When Ken suggests that Peter is just doing it out of pride and will wind up hurting Simon, Peter hits the roof.

Sunita and Sophie are watching the progress on the corner shop. Sunita tells Sophie that it's nearly ready. Sophie asks for more shifts when it's done. Sunita says that she won't answer until she has made a decision about college as she doesn't want to sway her.

Peter follows Ken across the Street and tells him to bring Simon out as he doesn't want him cared for by a man who would suggest he doesn't love his son. Ken assures peter that that is not what he said and tries to calm him down. Peter shouts that ken knows that Leanne only married him out of pity but Ken retorts that that is rubbish. Leanne made a mistake , but she definitely loves Peter. Peter storms towards the pub, as if to have a drink, but instead bursts into tears and sobs that he loved Leanne so much. Ken pulls him into a comforting hug.

Leanne is at the station and hangs up on Janice who is calling. She buys a ticket to London and the ticket vendor asks her when she will be coming back. Leanne replies that she won't be.

Peter is telling Ken that he had always assumed that he would be the one to mess up his marriage. He thought that he had found the perfect woman. Ken tells him that every human is flawed and Nick took advantage of that. Leanne loves Peter deeply and regrets her actions. Simon comes through and says he really wants to talk to Leanne. Ken says to peter that they both need to talk to her.

Tracy turns up and Becky informs her that there is no job for her. Tracy says it's a shame as she and Tina got on great. Tina calls a greeting over to her and Becky looks annoyed.

Dev is giving Graeme a lecture on not putting any nails through the walls. Graeme blurts out that they are putting Xin up. Dev appreciates their honesty...but the answer is still no.

Lloyd helps Peter into a cab and they head off to the station.

Meanwhile, Leanne's train is imminent and she heads to the platform.

Steve is explaining to Tracy that her job at the Rovers was never permanent and Becky looks on smugly.

Dev agrees to let Xin stay but wants another £200 rent. Tina and Graeme try to haggle but fail. Xin overhears the trouble that she is causing. She turns and walks out after apologising and Tina and Graeme go after her. Steve is forced to let Tracy behind the bar to cover Tina as it is so busy.

The taxi is in a traffic jam. Peter worries that he won't be able to forgive Leanne but Lloyd says he is already on the road to doing so by going to speak to her. It may take time, but they can work through it. peter smiles...it seems he has finally decided what he wants.

Graeme and Tina try to talk Xin round, but she says it would never work and gets onto a bus. Tina and Graeme look regretful as she heads away.

Peter is hurrying down the steps at the station. His stick gets in the way and he takes a stumble but is helped by a passer by.

Steve and Becky are sitting miserably. Steve tells Becky that Tracy has them over a barrel but it won't be like that forever. Tracy comes through and tells them that she has written all the shifts she can do on the rota.

Peter has just missed the rain and it pulls away. He looks crushed, but Leanne comes over to him and throws her arms around him. He hugs her back as she says that she couldn't get on the train. They embrace tighter.

Duncan Lindsay


Monday 21 February

Written by Julie Jones Directed by Laurence Moody

Poor Simon. He's spent the night at Number 1 and is starting to panic because he is afraid Leanne might have gone away again. Deirdre and Ken reassure him that Peter and Leanne just needed lots of time to have a grown up talk. Simon is sent into the kitchen so that Deirdre can urge Ken to go round to see what's going on. No need, there is a knock on the door and it's the more or less happy couple. Simon leaps into Leanne's arms. They say that they are indeed back together and going on their honeymoon with Simon. He runs upstairs to get his stuff packed, followed by Peter. Leanne thanks Ken and Deirdre for their support.

Steve has been able to get a loan but not as much as he needs. He tells Becky he has enough to pay Owen and the credit card bills but not Lloyd who isn't going to be happy. He cautions Becky no more spending and no more nights out. She figures if they sack Tracy they'll save on the wages bill. No chance. Not if it means she could run off and take Amy with her. Becky is frustrated.

Sunita is ironing and Dev has collected the post. He wants her to help pick out the fixtures and fittings but she doesn't seem inclined. He opens a letter and his face drains of colour and goes ashy at the contents but he doesn't tell Sunita and pretends it's junk mail.

Gary has put an ad in the paper. He's got himself touted as a man with a van that can do moving jobs, planning on borrowing Chesney's van when needed. This is the first Chesney's heard of it! Anna places bacon butties in front of them. Gary mentions that Izzy's preferred breakfast is meusli and he offers to come round later as he knows it's Faye's first proper visit. She turns around and arranges to be able to leave her shift earlier. Roy is complimentary about Anna and Eddie's giving an unfortunate child a good home. Over at another table, Audrey is having breakfast with a very glum Nick. Janice hurries in for a couple of sausage baps. Nick approaches the counter behind her, asking if Leanne got away ok. Janice takes great pleasure in informing him that not only did she not get on the train but she's back with Peter. Peter's glum face turns to utter dejection.

Sunita is at the door of the shop and can't quite bring herself to open the door and enter. Becky comes round the corner. She quickly susses that she's scared to go in, not having been in since the accident. She hugs her close and takes her hand and leads her into the shop. Sunita really feels that the shop has an air of tragedy or "memory" inside it. Becky explains that the shop was totally rebuilt so it's a brand new place. Sunita remembers that she could hear Molly crying. Dev tries to get her not to dwell on it. She's fragile but the idea of life having to go on, Beck and Dev agree on that point, while Sunita also adds how awful it was that someone, knowing she was there injured, robbed them. (But that's not how it happened. Sunita and Molly had already been removed from the premises when Becky took the cash.) Becky is uncomfortable of course but Dev hugs Sunita and comforts her.

Janice is back in the cafe for the cake run. Tyrone is there as well, wearing a white tshirt with a huge pink blotch around the top. Julie notices and first thinks he's been experimenting with tie-dying. Not really, laundry accident. Anna passes him his hot chocolate heaping with marshmallows. Tyrone bravely says living on his own is great, he's got full control of the telly. Julie witters on about talking to herself.

Owen arrives at the shop. Dev and Sunita have been looking at a catalogue of fittings. Owen wants more money, he's not been paid for two weeks. Sunita doesn't realize the insurance company hasn't paid out yet. Dev gets picky about some of the invoices Owen has presented him, a tad high aren't they? Owen defends his work and his invoices and Sunita doesn't understand why Dev doesn't just sort out the insurance company straight away.

Peter is packing and Simon is worried about where Leanne is. She comes in just then and he hugs her, worried she'd left again. She reassures him and realizes how upset he's been.

In the builder's office, Owen has shown Dev all the invoices and he agrees that all is in order. When will he be paid? Dev blusters and pretends to be too busy to talk about it now. When Owen threatens to ask Sunita, Dev tries to put him off. He needs the work done so they can start making a living there again. Owen is suspicious that Dev is trying to get out of paying altogether. Not so, not so! Owen threatens to drop tools and dismantle the whole shop if he doesn't get money asap.

Tyrone is preparing something in the kitchen. There's a knock on the door and it's Julie who's brought in a sack of laundry. She says her washer went on the blink and wants to borrow his. She's Hurricane Julie and Tyrone just seems a bit overwhelmed at her. She heads straight for his washing machine and puts her clothes in, spying his on the floor by it and offers to do his as well. She looks around and see the place is in a tip. He's not quite sure what's hit him!

Lloyd and Cheryl come into the pub and say they've been given a free night out at the casino, dinner, wine and a few bob in chips. Becky is excited but Steve isn't sure. Steve then takes Lloyd to one side and explains that he won't be able to pay the business back because the loan won't run to that much. Lloyd's annoyed that he and the business are at the bottom of the priority list.

Outside, the cab has arrived to take Peter, Leanne and Simon to the station. Ken and Deirdre and Janice are seeing them off. They all look very happy and this does not go unnoticed by a passing Nick who's wearing his heart most firmly on his sleeve. Nick is noticed and Peter pulls Leanne over for a kiss, just to rub Nick's face in it a little more. Off they go. Janice bellows across the road at Nick to figures at least there's one plus side to not being with Leanne. Janice isn't part of the deal!

Eddie is making a cake. For once it doesn't seem to be going well. There's batter in his long, stringy hair and he's got the ever-present fag in his mouth. (ugh) Anna arrives home, scolding him because he's not hoovered. He's just frustrated that his first cake didn't work out and has to start all over. Anna's nervous and wants everything just right for Faye. Eddie is instructed to get busy with the cleaning materials.

Ken and Deirdre have their lunch. Deirdre hopes all the drama is finally over. She still worries that it's hard to forgive it all. They admit they've gone through a lot of ups and downs but they always end up back together, much like homing pigeons, Ken reckons.

Sunita is at the house and is surrounded by bank statements. She realizes their financial situation is in dire straights. Dev has come in and when confronted, tries to wheedle her out of her questions, but she's determined to get to the bottom of why. He has been doing some juggling with the money through various accounts, trying to pay for the shop rebuild. He finally admits that the shop wasn't insured!! (Then why did they send a letter saying they wouldn't cover it? Surely he wouldn't have even bothered to apply for payment if he knew he hadn't paid the premiums! Duh!)

In the pub, Audrey and Nick are in for a late lunch and get a couple of sandwiches, all that's left. They sit down and Nick whinges to his Gran who tells him he's got to stop pining. She tells him he shouldn't run away. He isn't so sure. He's lost his business and the love of his life (I thought he was rebuilding the business?) He's got as much right to stay around as anyone and she thinks he'll find someone new.

Faye has arrived but seems bit quiet and solemn. The social worker warns them that Faye is nervous and scared and not to expect things to be wonderful on the first try. Faye is clutching her rucksack and won't give it up, snapping at Anna who tries to take it.

Sunita is appalled at Dev. He says he had the forms and cheque and forgot to post it. He's been paying for the work with their savings which hasn't been enough so the other shops' accounts have suffered too. He's also behind on the mortgage. (What happened to the big house and the flat? this whole storyline baffles me). She's shocked and angry they could even lose their house!!!!

Tvor

Here we are again. This episode was written by David Lane and directed by Lawrence Moody.

We open chez Alahan where Dev is apologising - and Sunita wants to know exactly what he is apologising for having done? He is apologising for not ensuring the insurance was renewed but Sunita is more concerned that he was treating her like an idiot - that cannot be forgiven. He did not want to worry her. Dev promises that he is going to get them out of this mess. Sunita wants the laptop - she wants to see how bad the accounts really are.

At the Windasses Faye is holding tightly onto her bag and the conversation is very stilted. Eddie tells her about a man leaving behind a wig in the taxi and then Anna tells a story about a shop dummy - but Faye is not impressed. She asks to see her room - and the couple kick each other for not having done it sooner. It is not going well.

Dev has to explain - he was hoping to fix it without worrying her. The Coronation Street shop - a tram through the roof, no sales and no insurance, the Swinton shop - the empty unit two doors down is a Freshco fast-track outlet and has taken the business, at the Eccles shop there is major roadworks and the business is dying - nowhere to park for a year. Openshaw - the local block of flats contained asbestos and all of the residents have been moved out. Business has been terrible, plus the recession. The doner shop was a good investment. Sunita tells him they are going to have to sell some of the shops - keeping just Weatherfield and the kebab shop - and they will not realise their true worth. Dev accepts it reluctantly.

Faye is offered sausage and chips for her tea, but she does not eat tea, just a bag of crisps when she gets home from school and something before she goes to bed. She just wants to watch telly, Eddie wants her to help make a cake - and when she refuses he tries to head off to the Rovers. Anna insists he makes a cake.

Nick is leaving Weatherfield and both Gail and Audrey try to talk him out of it. Gail says he is a quitter - he should face up to everyone and stay.

Becky and Cheryl are dressed up and with their other halves they head off to a casino. As they are about to depart Dev arrives and wants a few words. In the back in private Dev explains his situation to Steve - he needs the money that was stolen and was hoping that Steve could lend him £5k to tide him over. Steve says he is in just as big a whole - he owes StreetCars £10k and there are loans all over the place - he just cannot do it. Dev asks one favour - that Steve tells no-one.

Julie arrives at Tyrone's and has brought a casserole which stuffs into the oven on low. She has brought some wine which she tells Ty to open. Julie wants to apply some feng shui to the living room and Ty despite trying to go out has to open the wine reluctantly.

After the break we are in the casino and the girls are winning and then losing on the roulette wheel - being a quiet night there were £100 worth of free chips to start the gambling but they soon go! Lloyd asks Steve about the money owed and Steve agrees that as soon as he some cash he promises he will pay up. The girls are £60 up and the boys move to the blackjack table.

Izzy and Gary are now at the Windasses and the conversation with Faye is getting better - they are talking about the Twilight books and films. Gary says he is stopping at Izzy's. Faye asks about Izzy's wheelchair. Apparently it is for medical reasons, not an accident. She can stand and walk a bit - and then people see that and think she is faking it [do we actually know what is wrong with Izzy?]. Faye asks if they are going to get married. Apparently Faye can ask any question she likes except why Eddie does not get his haircut - that is something they apparently do not talk about.

Nick, Audrey and Gail arrive in the Rovers and Tracy is surprised Nick can show his face. Nick buys a round of drinks. Sunita arrives to find Dev who is clutching a drink to his breast. Dev did not think that Sunita would want to see his face - but she loves him and takes him home. Nick tells Tracy he is re-opening the bar. Tracy tells him to leave the Barlow family alone.

Cheryl and Becky have lost all their money as has Lloyd. Steve has been winning and he decides despite Lloyds advice to play one more hand. The cards are dealt - a four and a three, total seven. Another card, five, total twelve. And another card, a six; total eighteen. Lloyd's advice is immediate - he must stick and not ask for another card (well I would). Steve asks for another card. It is a three. And Becky realises he has lost - twenty-two. But Steve is brighter. it is 21 and a five card trick - he has won again. The croupier pays out and Steve rewards her with one of the chips. Steve has won some thousands.

Ty says that having Julie there is weird - it is the first time he has anyone there at mealtime since Molly. She asks if he has had any counseling. She has a book which helped and she proceeds to read that you should fight "sad with sad". If you are feeling down and dispirited you should "Share A Detail" - "S A D". A remembrance of a loved one will bring a smile to your face. If feeling down at work share a fact with a workmate. Ty points out that he works with Kev. She suggests a friend instead of a co-worker. Julie simply reminds Ty of the fund raising - which Ty points out was cover for the affair. Later Ty and Julie are sitting on the sofa and Ty is still trying to get his head around the events of Molly's last few days. Ty wished that he could have sorted it all out - she was his Molly and he cries as he talks about her. Julie cries as well and holds Ty. Ty recalls Molly's blue eyes. And he knows her children would have had those eyes. And he loved her and misses her. He breaks down.

Faye asks Izzy and Gary to stay a bit longer - Eddie thanks him it is working better.

Becky and Steve return to the Rovers and the four of them agree to keep quiet about the win. Steve takes LLoyd in the back for a discussion. He cannot give StreetCars the money from the win - Steve needs the money to give to Dev - the richest man Lloyd knows. Lloyd cannot understand it - so Steve has to explain events on the night of the tram crash where Kylie was given a further £5k of money stolen from Dev's safe. Lloyd can hardly believe what he is hearing - but Steve knows this is his one chance of putting things right.

Which is your lot for tonight.

Perhaps now that he has admitted his feelings Tyrone will start feeling better.

And will Steve do the right thing? Wait and see.
K Richard W


Thursday 24 February

Tyrone rushes downstairs and wakes Julie who's crashed out on the sofa. Dazed, she goes off to use the bathroom.

Eileen steps out of her front door and finds a forlorn looking Sunita staring at the corner shop. She asks when it's going to be up and running again. Sunita says they hope to open soon, but there's still a lot to do. Eileen assumes it's Owen dragging his feet and tells her if she wants to hurry him up she could mention his creative book-keeping and unpaid VAT bills. Sunita thanks her and walks on.

Julie rushes out of Tyrone's front door. Eileen is shocked and as they walk across the road to the factory she demands an explanation. Julie tells her how she popped round to check Tyrone was ok, and they ended up drinking a lot of wine, and now she can't remember what happened!

Sunita gets home to find Dev just finishing an exasperating phone call to the 22 year old agent who is selling their shops. Sunita reminds him he has no one but himself to blame for the mess they're in. Dev catches her arm and says he's sorry, he's let them all down. She softens and says she knows things haven't been easy, and it's going to be tough in the short term, but eventually they'll be fine. Just then there's a knock on the door, it's Owen.

Becky finds Steve counting his winnings. She starts singing "we're in the money!" and dances round the room. Steve doesn't seem as happy, and Becky asks him if he's going to do the sensible thing and pay Lloyd back what he owes him. She tells him he won the money fair and square and can do whatever he wants with it.

David gets out of a taxi outside his house. Gail asks if he enjoyed Teneriffe, but David is engrossed in a text message on his phone.

Owen is pressing Dev for the money he owes him. Sunita eventually loses her temper and asks if he has any idea what they lost in the crash. Owen apologises but says he's still owed for two weeks work and he can't do any more until it's paid. "How am I supposed to pay my boys? How am I supposed to pay for materials?" he shouts. Sunita suggests he's more imaginative with his accounting, she's heard he's good at that. There's silence for a moment. "Come again?" says Owen. Sunita says he can try moving materials from job A to job B, or whatever it is he does, then they'd have the shop open by the weekend. Owen is furious and tells her he knows which nasty, twisted gob she head that from and if he hears any more there'll be a suit for slander. Dev tries to calm him and asks if they can come to some arrangement. "How about this," says Owen, "pay what you owe me and I'll finish your shop." He marches out.

Izzy, Sean and Julie see Tyrone working on a car. Sean asks Julie what the last thing is that she remembers. Izzy asks if she was flirting with him. Julie looks embarrassed and says she doesn't think so, but she did wake up without her bra on, although that could mean anything. Sean asks if she was still wearing other clothing. "Of course," snaps Julie, "what kind of woman do you take me for?" Izzy suggests Julie walks past Tyrone in a casual way and see how he responds. Julie obliges, and walks up to Tyrone. "Hiya," she says. He looks up and says he's glad he's seen her. He picks up a bin bag and hands it to her, it's her washing, left in his machine. He then turns his attention back to the car and Julie walks back to Sean and Izzy who reckon Ty was just playing it cool.

Fay is taking her leave of Anna and Eddie. They suggest that when the weather warms up they have a day out at Alton Towers. Fay doesn't seem impressed. "That's for kids," she sniffs. Just then Gary comes along, and Eddie tells him they what they're proposing. "Not without me," says Gary. Anna tells him Fay doesn't seem keen to go, but suddenly Fay is all for it. Anna gives her a hug and kiss and she gets into the taxi.

Steve walks into the taxi office. Lloyd isn't happy that Steve isn't going to give him the money he owes him, but Steve tells him that Dev and Sunita are really struggling right now. Lloyd tells him that the business really needs the money, they've exceeded their overdraft limit. Steve knows, but after what Becky did.... Lloyd thinks that what Becky did was terrible, practically stepping over dead bodies for her own selfish interests. Steve protests that she did it for Max. "No, she did it because she wanted Max," says Lloyd, "there's a difference." Steve asks Lloyd if they're all right. "No mate, we're not," says Lloyd and goes out to get some air.

Owen sees Eileen out in the Street and tells her that if she goes on spreading lies about him the two of them will fall out worse than they already have. Eileen tells him that if it's the truth she'll say what she likes to who she likes. She says he's a nasty little bully, and reminds him that she has the documents that could land him a nice stretch inside.

Julie is in the pub, telling Sean she doesn't want to lead Tyrone on. She only went round to offer him some comfort, and what if he declared his undying love for her and she can't remember? As she walks out, she stops to tell Jason, who is sitting with Owen, that she and Eileen are off to the cinema and he'll have to get his own tea.

A glum looking Dev walks into the bar. Steve tells him that things will be fine when the shop opens. "IF the shop opens," says Dev, looking towards Owen. He tells Steve that Owen has downed tools and until he finishes the shop stays closed, unless he can raise some cash fast he's finished.

Jason gets up to leave. Rosie is out doing a drinks promotion, he's off home alone. Owen hands him a tenner and tells he doesn't want to go home to an empty house, drinks are on him.

Izzy and Gary have been eating their evening meal with Anna and Eddie. Anna says how they'll have all their meals like that when Fay comes to them full time, but Eddie isn't too happy about that. Izzy says that any kid would be lucky to have the two of them as parents. Anna hopes Fay feels the same, but realises that she only seems brighten up when Gary appears. Gary tells her that's because he's not asking her if she's having fun all the time.

Back in the pub, Jason goes off to the gents, and Owen tells him he's going to go and check on Katie. However, once Jason is out of sight, Owen takes the house keys out of Jason's coat pocket.

Becky finds Steve sitting morosely at the table. She says he looks like he wishes he'd never won the money. She tells him to pay the business back what he owes. "Do the right thing," she says.

Owen lets himself in the back door of Eileen's house, and stands in the dark looking around.

Over at the Platt's, David is still messing around with his phone when the doorbell rings. Gail lets Audrey in, she's come to see David. Gail explains that David is sending and receiving messages from a girl he met on holiday. David tells his gran that her name is Candy and he met her on the first night of his holiday, and she's a cage dancer. He's never met anyone like her before and he reckons she's The One! He goes off upstairs and Audrey and Gail smile.

Sean tells Jason to be wary of Owen, he gets a bad vibe off him. Jason says that Sean gets a bad vibe off everyone, and Owen is a good boss. Just then Owen comes back into the pub and, unnoticed, slips Jason's keys back in his pocket.

Steve is outside in the smoking area of the Rovers, smoking, and looking at a brown paper package in his hands. Then he strides out of the back gate and off down the ginnel.

Out the front, a bus pulls up and Julie and Eileen get off and walk to Eileen's front door. As she's asking Julie if she wants to come in, Steve appears at the corner and stops. Julie declines Eileen's offer, saying there's something she has to do, and wanders down the Street and knocks on Tyrone's door. He opens it, and grunts a greeting. Julie starts waffling about how she should have said something, but it was embarrassing. "Right, I've got ya," says Ty, and leaves her on the step for a moment and then returns with the missing bra. "Stuck behind the cushions on the sofa," he says, and then tells her she found the Dirty Dancing cd and insisted on dancing. When she said she'd do it better bra-less, he took that as his cue to go to bed. She apologises and says she only came round to cheer him up. He says he doesn't need cheering up, not like that. "Night!" he says, and slams the door. Looking pained, Julie wanders off.

Steve takes that as his cue and steps out from the corner. He hurries along the pavement and then pushes the package through Dev and Sunita's front door.

Anne Logan


Friday 25 February

The Alahan children fight over a toy, to Dev's annoyance. When he's finished laying down the law he notices the package by the door. Opening it he finds the money and a note saying just "Sorry."

Becky's surprised Steve is up early but he says he couldn't sleep. She's keen on spending the money he won but he says 100 per cent of it is going to pay debts - "One debt in particular." She floats the idea of using the money for gambling, since their luck is in.

Dev shows Sunita the money. He's sure it's from whoever stole from them.

The machinists wait outside the factory. Julie's confessed that she gave The Little Book of Lost to Tyrone - and he lost it. She tells them Tyrone needs to make some changes. The house is full of negative energy. He refuses to confess that his wounds are too deep, she says. Carla arrives and gets Julie to pay for her taxi. "Things must be bad," says Izzy, to Carla's annoyance.

As Sean and Eileen step out their front door, Owen greets them and tells Eileen how good she looks today and what a nice day it is. Eileen and Sean are very confused.

Over breakfast, Dev and Sunita discuss the money. Dev says it must be someone they know because they feel guilty. Sunita wonders if it's a professional thief who has reformed but Dev pooh poohs this. "OK. Ideally, they should have owned up. This is the next best thing," Sunita says. Dev knows that's what he should think but he just doesn't.

Owen's busy and cheerfully shredding things such as paperwork from the Gleaming Granite Co. and tells Jason it's stuff he wants to keep away from prying eyes. Jason moans about his hangover and blames Owen, who says Jason will have to start work on his own today as he'll be tied up in the office.

In the salon a regular client arrives and Maria says she'll be with her in a moment. David says that actually he'll be dealing with the Mrs Coombs today. Maria's puzzled. It's her client and has been for years. In the back room David tells her, "Today, she wants her hair styled by the creative director." Maria says that's a fancy name for a junior stylist and David says it befits his status as heir apparent. Then he says Maria can shampoo the client and stick out some fresh towels. Oooh! Fight! Fight!

In the Rovers, Lloyd comes to see Steve.

Owen's on the phone to the police reporting embezzlement, fraud or theft by an employee - he isn't sure what to call it.

Lloyd's annoyed Steve didn't pay back the money. Steve says he had to pay the Alahans. Lloyd wishes he'd put the business first, just once. Steve assures him this is a one-off. Lloyd wonders if buying children and looting friends' safes are everyday occurrences in Steve and Becky World. They keep arguing. Lloyd demands to know when Steve's going to grow up and realise Becky's like a tornado and will always need clearing up after.

The client leaves looking pretty much as she did when she came in (though the pieces of hair that were tucked behind her ears are now not). Maria's been looking at the appointment book. "You nicked all my clients!" she says. He claims they're the salon's clients, not hers. Maria threatens to go somewhere else and take her clients with her. He says he could be running the place in 12 months. Maria wonders if Audrey knows what he's doing and threatens to tell her.

Eileen arrives home and finds Sean lounging on the sofa eating a Scotch egg. She sits with him to watch lunchtime TV. But she really wants to talk about how worried she is about Owen's behaviour. He's up to something. Sean reassures her that she's got a dossier on Owen so has nothing to worry about.

Sunita and Dev are in the shop. Well, the almost-shop. Dev can't bear to put that cash in the bank because it's tainted. "Gift horse, Dev," she says. Dev's angry. He thinks the person is a coward. Sunita asks if he's going to conduct house-to-house inquiries to ask the neighbours if they saw anything. Dev doesn't think that's a bad idea. He might have the money back but it's not enough. "I want justice!"

Lloyd stomps out of the pub and Steve asks Becky for a private word. He tells her what he did with the money.

"Jules!" As she comes out of the factory and hears Tyrone shout at her she puts him right. She's Julie. Julie Marie to close family. Ju-Ju to her Nana and JJ to close friends - which don't include Tyrone. "Nobody ever calls me Jules." Ty tries to apologise about yesterday. He says she was just a bit full-on and in his face. "I know you mean well, but I'm fine as I am." Julie can't believe he's happy living in squalor with negative chi everywhere. "I've got a top of the range Hoover - I can get that up in no time," Tyrone assures her. He says she's like hot chilli sauce - he loves it, but only in small doses.

Becky's gone very quiet - a dangerous sign. She asks Steve why he did it. He says he won the money and it didn't feel right keeping it when they owed Dev. Becky says she's the one who owed the money. She tells him he's a good man and she's a lousy wife. She wants assurance that the money can't be traced back to them. Then she kisses him.

In the salon, Audrey's arrived and Maria finds out the reallocation of clients was done with Audrey's help. "I want David to have far more experience, which means taking on a lot more customers over time." She thinks the new title sounds impressive and might help bring in new clients. Maria wants to know where that leaves her. "He's already treating me like a skivvy." Audrey asks if there are any clients she particularly wants to keep. David suggests that if Maria's got a problem with him being heir to the throne then perhaps she should move on. Maria grabs her coat and goes, with Audrey shouting after her. "Two words, Gran. Dead. Wood," David says, to Audrey's exasperation.

Julie's weeping as Tyrone tries to smooth things over but they agree to be mates.

DC Tyler arrives at the yard to talk to Owen. Owen says he should have been less trusting. "It's not easy grassing up someone who used to work for me," he postures. The detective says he'll be the one who decides how bad the alleged crime is.

Dev and Sunita come into the bar. Becky can't serve them. Sunita tells Steve her faith in humanity has been restored. She tells them about the money. Dev is very quiet.

The detective talks to Owen. Owen keeps pretending he's reluctant to grass up Eileen but the detective spends time persuading him he should report the crime. Owen says Eileen had a bit of a crush on him. "She obviously took it badly because shortly after that she started ripping me off."

"See," Steve says to Dev. "Even low-life thieving scumbags can have a conscience." Dev says he doesn't share Sunita's rosy view of humanity. He wants justice. "They haven't been punished." He's annoyed by this. He says he can hand the envelope and the contents to the police so they can look for fingerprints or DNA and analyse the handwriting. They can find this thief in seconds, and then I'll be happy."

The End (of episode one)
Margaret Carr

Becky and Steve have gone through to the back room. Becky is panicking but Steve brushes off her worries. Becky insists that Dev is right, the police can find out anything from the forensics. She asks Steve if he licked the envelope and looks incredulous when he says that he did.

Owen is telling the police officer what Eileen did and backs it up with copies of the accounts as evidence. He even goes as far as giving Eileen's address.

A scream of rage rings out from Carla's office. Sean and Julie rush in to check what's wrong and find that Carla has misplaced an important contract. She admits that she is lost without Michelle as her PA and Sean and Julie both pipe up that they could do the job.

Becky is worrying that they will lose Max once social services are involved. Steve assures her that everything will be fine before admitting that he told Lloyd and heading out to pacify him.

Sunita is trying to tell Dev that police have more pressing crimes to deal with as he rants about getting justice. She reminds him that the police will take their money as evidence and they won't be able to pay Owen to finish the shop. He looks torn.

An officer comes into the factory wanting a word with Eileen.

Lloyd has little sympathy for Steve as he tells him what has happened. Steve tries to butter him up but Lloyd tells him to get out of his sight.

Eileen is sitting in the toilets crying. Sean has to coax her out and she returns to the factory floor where she is placed under arrest for fraud.

Steve looks nervous as he sees a police car but it is Eileen who is led into the vehicle. Owen watches from afar after being paid by Dev and Sunita and gives Eileen a wave.

Chris is telling Maria that she is brave for leaving her job. Carla overhears that she is unemployed and offers her a job as her PA.

Eileen is too upset to answer any questions. Her solicitor asks to speak to her alone.

Carla is telling Maria that the job is a piece of cake as Maria tells her she has no experience of office work. Maria asks if she can think about it. Carla replies that she can take as long as she needs, so long as the answer will be yes.

As Owen resumes work on the shop, Dev and Sunita are delighted to be told that they will be up and running in about a week. Julie comes over and tells Jason about Eileen's arrest before directing a glare at Owen.

Eileen's solicitor is telling her that she needs to respond otherwise she looks guilty. Eileen tells her that she is guilty and she feels so ashamed of what she has done, that's why she paid the money back. The solicitor tells her that that fact, as well as her having no criminal record, could work in her favour, but she should plead guilty.

Becky is telling Steve that she can't bear the tension. He agrees and tells her that he is going to tell Dev the truth. Before Becky can argue, he has gone.

Maria comes round to the factory and says she can't believe she is here after the bad memories. But she is ready to move on and is accepting the job.

Jason arrives at the police station and asks Sean what is going on.

Eileen tells the police officer the full truth and her solicitor interjects and asks him to consider a caution. He tells them that it's a serious crime so he will have to consult someone above.

Dev and Sunita admire their new shop sign but Steve comes over and asks them for a private word.

Audrey and Maria bump into each other and share a hug. Audrey apologies for David's behaviour and tries to reinstate Maria but Maria tells her she is ready for a new direction.

The police officer tells Eileen she is very lucky - she has a caution for fraud this time but now has a criminal record.

Steve is telling Dev that he knows who the culprit is. He tells Dev that he would never wish harm against his family but Dev presses him for a name. Steve hangs his head and tells him that it was him who stole the money.

Eileen tells Sean and Jason she got a caution. Jason wants to know what she has done but she just wants to get out of the station.

Steve is trying to appeal to Dev and Sunita but they are unforgiving. Dev yells for him to get out as it is worse that a friend has done this rather than a drug addict or yob. Steve begs him not to go to the police but Dev throws him out and tells him that he is going straight to the police... and he knows exactly where to send them.

Duncan Lindsay


Monday 28 February

Written by Peter Whalley Directed by John Anderson

As Sunita calls up to hurry up the children, Dev is staring at his laptop and stewing over the news that his former friend stole from him. He says he plans to call the police but he hasn't yet, preferring to agonize over it, it seems. Sunita is hurt and disappointed about the whole situation, too but is a lot more pragmatic. The kids come downstairs and try to get out of going to school because it's a special day, the shop is reopening. Sunita hushes Dev as he's still jabbering on about the betrayal and little jugs have big ears. She closes his laptop and reminds him it's a big day. It seems the excitement just isn't there for him today.

Steve is quiet. Becky knows there's something wrong. He is about to tell her what he's done but Max comes in for breakfast. When Max goes in the kitchen, Steve tells Becky what he's done, confessed to the looting and that Dev said he'd call the police. Becky doesn't have time to react because Max returns.

Jason is also reeling this morning, having found out that his mother took Owen's money and he's worried about how it will affect his job. Eileen has been looking for Owen's papers but they are not to be found. She tells Jason she was desperate to keep their roof over their heads.

Sunita takes the kids to school and sends Dev to open the shop where Sophie is waiting with a card. Norris comes across the road and is his usual cheery self, pointing out that all Dev's customers will have been going elsewhere, but really, he's just interested in nosing around the new fixtures, fittings, and price tags.

Becky is getting ready to take Max to nursery but informs Steve that they need to have a serious discussion when she returns.

The factory bees are buzzing about having Maria as a new overling. In the office, Maria has started her first day. Carla notices Sean coming in late and Eileen is not in evidence at all. Sean takes the tongue lashing for being late and says Eileen is not feeling well. Carla takes that about as well as you'd expect. She turns and warns the staff that if they can't get a new contract, they will have no work to do at all. She slams the office door. Julie asks after Eileen but the two of them don't reveal anything though Janice is determined to find out what's going on because something is!

In the office, Carla tells Maria there's a new buyer coming round. She advises Maria to be nice to the man, be a little flirty and be agreeable.

Jason is upset with Owen for having his mother arrested. Owen defends himself, saying he didn't have a choice. A crime was committed and when he hears Eileen got off with a caution, breezes it off. All done and dusted. Owen asks if Jason is resigning or if he's going to forget it and put it behind them. Jason isn't happy but he says nothing.

Becky returns to the bar and immediately asks Steve why he lied to Dev when it was all in the past. Steve reveals that they were going to go to the police anyway with what evidence they had. Steve took a chance that by telling Dev he did it, Dev wouldn't go to the police. They don't know that, though, and the two of them row furiously ending with Steve screaming that all he's ever done was for her! Becky glares at him, angry and hurt and guilty, and walks away.

Tracy is in the corner shop and being obnoxious as usual and nobody actually smacks her. It's made Dev think about Amy, having just got one parent back and will lose the other if Dev goes to the police. Rock, meet hard place.

Becky is sitting in the back room and Steve pokes his head in to apologize for probably doing the wrong thing. He's optimistic about Dev not going to the police. Becky kisses him and says they're ok but you can tell she feels terrible about it all and she tells him she's got something to do, and has a very determined look on her face.

Graeme and Tina are feeling bad that their attempt at helping Xin didn't work out and plan to go to the restaurant later to see her.

In the factory, Sean is escorting the new buyer, Frank, to the office. Only he doesn't know it's a buyer (though who else usually comes in on business meetings) and mentions in passing that the factory is short of work. Probably a bad call. Frank goes into the office to be greeted by Carla's wide smile and Maria's tentative one. Maria is introduced and Carla finds out what Sean was saying. Carla passes it off as "strategy" and breaks open the contracts. Maria is given one too.

Rita is in the shop now. She tells them the Kabin still has a week or two before it's open. It sounds like Sunita is still a bit haunted by the memories though Dev figures it's a new building. Rita backs out gracefully, greeting Sophie on the way. Sophie is missing Sian and worries that she won't return from her extra long holiday or will meet someone else. Rita admonishes her to have faith in people she loves, and exits. The Alahans, mere feet away, discuss the looting/Steve thing (yet Sophie doesn't hear a thing). Sunita thinks everyone should know about Steve and now it's Dev that seems to want to keep quiet if the police aren't going to be involved.

In the factory, at dinnertime, Carla tears a strip off Sean for his indiscreet words. In the office, Maria is offering to go for sandwiches. Frank asks about her background and they make small talk. He seems to find her attractive.

Julie is at Eileen's. Eileen has turned the place upside down looking for the documents. Julie points out that Owen must have stole back the papers, papers that belonged to him in the first place. Now what?

In the pub, David buys Graeme a drink even though Graeme is too skint to retaliate. Eileen and Julie come in and Eileen approaches Owen at the bar, accusing him of breaking in to her house. He fully admits it but Julie wants them to forget it. Eileen tells Owen he's rotten. She's really backed into a corner and can't really do anything. They all sit down and when Izzy asks what's going on with her dad, Eileen says that Owen broken in and took back papers that she took from him. Julie keeps trying to change the subject and is eventually successful.

Frank takes a call outside the office, and Carla urges Maria to be a bit friendlier and flirtier rather than just all business.

Becky is looking down the street at the corner shop. Lloyd comes up behind her and asks her if she's forgiven herself. Nope, she replies. Lloyd expresses his disappointment in her how Steve ended up taking the blame for her. She doesn't react but finishes her smoke, takes a deep breath and walks down the road toward the shop.

Sophie is sent off for her lunch break just as Becky enters. She asks for Dev as well as Sunita and tells them that Steve lied. She took the money and Steve lied to protect her. She reminds them that it was her in the shop that night and saw the money all over the shop. She picked it up. Hayley comes into the shop and the thick of the tension. Becky turns her back so she doesn't have to look Hayley in the eye. Hayley chunters around to find her milk while the Alahans glare the 50-yard "if looks could kill" stare at Becky's back.

David tells Tina and Graeme that Candy will be arriving on Friday afternoon. He's clearly smitten and Graeme is happy for him. Tina can't wait to see this woman.

Back to the corner shop, Hayley leaves and Beck turns around again. She admits that after she saved Sunita's life, she took the money and tells them why. She used it to buy Max from her sister. Dev explodes and can't understand how anyone would buy a child. Becky reminds them that they'd have done anything to keep their children. Difference being, Sunita cries, that they *were* *her* children. Sunita is raging at Becky throws Becky out of the shop, physically. Becky sinks to the kerb, head in her arms as Sunita is screaming at her though the details of why are not revealed. Hayley witnesses all this from across the road, Lloyd from a passing cab, and... Tracy sees it too, hearing Sunita banning Becky from the shop and ordering her to stay away from her kids, too!

Tvor

Well I am back, thank you to Tvor for publishing my updates whilst away and we had better get over to the mean Street in Weatherfield where events tonight were written by Jim Cartwright and directed by John Anderson and come to you courtesy of ITV Productions who are the owners of the copyright.

Hayley rushes to Becky's aid and she and Lloyd tell Becky to rise above it. Lloyd gives Tracy a very cold look as he walks past her. Tracy wants to know what it was all about - but Lloyd for one is not talking. Tracy wants the next installment in the Alahan / McDonald argument.

In the factory the girls re showing the new buyer Frank around and they are telling him how busy they are - and the high quality they can achieve. However they pour it all on far too strongly. Maria thinks she is out of her depth but Carla is fast-tracking her and the buyer seems impressed.

In the shop Dev sends Sophie home so Sunita can say that she does not believe how Becky could both save her life and rob from them the same night. Dev hopes that Becky and Steve rot in hell.

In the Rovers Owen is telling Lloyd just what Eileen had done - stealing the ten grand. Lloyd can hardly believe it. Jason comes up - he is worried about his mum - apparently she has lost the paperwork which was her defense against Owen and it is making Jason wonder (and boy you can almost see the cogs turning, very slowly). Jason reckons it is a mystery and Jason could see his job vanish equally quickly, so Owen proposes they say no more.

Hayley is trying to re-assure Becky - but she knows she has done a terrible thing and this could be the last time. Becky says it is entirely down to her. Steve arrives and escorts Becky home - she is sorry she has let the Croppers down again.

Frank is pushing for an even better deal than the one on the table. Maria personally vouches for the competence of all of the staff on the workshop floor. She sounds convincing - and exudes confidence which is what is really needed. They agree strategy for round two.

Lloyd visits Eileen and says that he trusts her and the two of them make up - he offers any help she needs - she only has to call and then she thanks him and gives him a big hug.

Hayley goes into the shop to talk to Sunita - but she does not want to know - but Hayley knows it is really bad. Hayley is not there to defend her - and tries to explain that Becky has a proper home for the first time - Hayley asks Sunita to see it from Becky's viewpoint. Dev comes in and Sunita says Hayley should go.

After the break in the Rovers Norris approaches Lloyd - as usual he wants to gossip on why Becky was thrown out of the corner shop. Lloyd agrees there was a disagreement but says he knows no more than that. Tracy tells an exaggerated story of events - but Norris missed all the action being in the mobile shop where he was cut off from civilisation. Tracy reckon that Lloyd does know. Becky and Steve return and Tracy says she is thinking of popping to the Corner Shop following which Steve tells her to keep her mouth shut in future.

Frank is not yet sure - so Maria offers to make up a sample of the range and when he cannot make the following day Carla suggests dropping it round the following evening at 8. Maria will have to sort out a babysitter but reckons she will be able to make it Frank gives the two girls high five.

Becky is apologising to Steve in the back room at the Rovers - when there is knock at the door and Tracy announces Sunita and Dev - before Steve closes the door on her. Steve offers the visitors a drink - but Sunita explains they are there for only one reason to confirm that they will not be pressing charges. Steve thanks them - but Dev would have taken it all the way. Sunita says she would have done anything to keep her children so can understand Becky. Dev says he wants nothing more to do with either of them and he and Sunita leave and Becky collapses in tears in Steve's arms.

Audrey is locking up the salon and David is wittering on about his new girlfriend Candy. And what she is up to in Tenerife. Audrey says he is talking a load of rubbish. Gail joins them and tells Audrey that she is fed up with it as well, but she knows it is just a phase and David will have forgotten her by the weekend. But David says he will not have forgotten his fiancee by the weekend. It appears he has just texted her and asked her to become his wife and she has agreed. Gail and Audrey (as usual with David) can hardly believe their ears - especially as he claims to have been on bended knee when sending the text. Apparently texting is the 21st Century way of doing it.

In the factory Carla has a staff deputation and they all want to know if there is any overtime - Janice for one could do with the cash. Carla tells them that since the rebuild the factory has been running on reserves as they have been short of orders. Carla hopes the potential order from Frank will help - but it is the only one around at the moment. Maria then has to tell them that she needs samples of the new range and Julie volunteers. Clearly it is difficult for the factory at the moment.

Gail, Audrey and David discuss the engagement - but David says he loves her and it will not be different when she arrives. David knows little about Candy's background and they will love her when they meet her at the end of the week when she arrives. David tells them to butt out - he is in love and will marry her.

In the factory the staff are largely doing nothing. Janice is behind with the rent and the catalogue bills. She has no cash. Julie offers to provide Janice with housing if she is desperate. In the office Carla asks Maria to take the samples over by herself - but initially Maria is reluctant, but Carla talks her into it.

Becky and Steve are arguing over the latest mess they have got themselves into - mainly because Becky keeps destroying her life. Steve has lost two good friends in Dev and Lloyd and he is so deep in debt he does not know how he is going to get himself out of it. Steve keeps shouting at her and he tells her that if she messes up one more time they will be finished.

And that's it that for this week. See you soon.
K Richard W



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