2015


Friday 2 January

Well here it is, my first report for the year. A belated Happy New Year to you all.

This episode starts of with David encouraging Max to eat his breakfast. He has a doctor's appointment and wants his mother to come with. David tells him she is staying with a friend who is not well. Audrey comes in, notices Max isn't dressed and also encourages him to eat his breakfast. She offers to help David, but he says he can cope. She reminds him that it was him that threw her out. David says it doesn't matter, even though she is not living there she can still attend the doctor's.

Sinead, Beth and Chesney are eating breakfast. Beth is looking forward to changing her name to Sutherland. She thinks it sounds posh. Beth asks Sinead when she can see her basque. Sinead says later when she has her fitting. Katy knocks on the door. She asks Chesney if he could look after Joseph as Kal has given her a late shift. Ches says he can do it after 1pm. She asks how the wedding preparations are going, he says okay except Kirk is a bit nervous. Beth remarks that it is supposed to be a blushing bride not blushing groom! Sinead adds that he is worried he is going to show himself up on the first dance. Kirk says he doesn't want to mess up as he has got 'two left feet' Beth says she has bought him a pair of flip flops for the honeymoon !!

Gary and Alya meet in the street. She asks if he is okay, he reminds her that Roy is due in court today and he feels guilty. Alya says he gave him a battering, but Gary says he deserves it. Gary thanks her for being so supportive, even though her family are against him. She says she is old enough to make her own decisions. Then Gary spots the youths walking down the street. He calls over to them asking what they are doing. The-youth-that-has-a-speaking-part replies by asking what it is to do with him. Yasmeen comes over and tells one of them that she knows his mother, and another that she knows both of his parents. She raises her mobile phone and threatens to call the police who will call their parents. They move on !!!!!!! Yasmeen also goes. Gary asks Alya if she is going to tell her parents about 'us'. She says she will and be honest.

Roy has written instructions which he is passing to Tyrone and Chesney of what to do if he is sent to prison after his court appearance. They try to assure him that it is not going to happen. Tyrone tries to convince him that the Court will understand he has been under a lot of pressure. Roy says he doesn't think the Court will give any special consideration to anyone who has been bereaved.

Amy is bored and is playing around at Barlow Buys. Tracy is getting annoyed and suggests she finds something in the shop that she can play with. Amy looks at a 200-piece spanner set, but Tracy stops her using that. Amy then picks up a musical instrument, but Tracy tells her not to play with that either!

Eva sees David and Max in the street and asks if they were going anywhere exciting. David explains that they are on their way to the doctor's for Max's ADHD check up. Max says his mother is coming and runs off. Eva tries to confirm with David but he says he doesn't know, but it wouldn't surprise him. Eva offers to ring her, but only gets her answerphone.

A guy is in Barlow Boys and offering Tracy his late relative's possessions. Meanwhile Amy starts to play with a hair dryer. Tracy yells at her to stop, and suggests she goes outside and play with Faye.

In the factory they are admiring the basque that Sinead has made, but hide it when Kirk comes over. Kirk and Beth have been practising their dancing. Their song will be 'All Night Long' by Lionel Richie. Kirk doesn't like slow tunes, but says it starts slow, goes fast, then slow then fast ! Sean says he doesn't know who he is going to go as. Sally suggests Keith Harris and Orville, but Sean suggests she gets out her old blue suit and go as Maggie Thatcher. Laughter all round. Kirk then says he hasn't got his outfit sorted. He doesn't know who to go as. He wants it to be right for Beth's big day. Julie offers to have a chat with him later and hopefully they will come up with some ideas. Alya is looking at the basque again and suggests they would go down a storm at the wedding fair.

In the doctor's waiting room, Max is wondering where Kylie is. He tells David that he said she would be there, but David corrects him and says she will try to be there. The receptionist then calls them in. Max says he isn't going in with his mother and runs off.

Out in the street, Amy and Faye are playing with a ball. Amy asks Faye sf she believes in ghosts. She says she doesn't but wonders why she asked. Amy responds by saying that sometimes she sees dead people.

Then Max is running with David chasing him. He is stopped in his tracks by Kevin. Kevin asks David what is wrong, and he replies that he is like his Dad and hates going to the doctor's. Kevin says in his day he used to get a lollipop for going. David tries to explain to Max that he realises he is disappointed that his mother isn't here, but she is looking after her sick friend. David assures him that she will be home soon.

In the salon, Audrey hands Mrs Alexis a magazine to read while she is under the dryer. She says there is a feature about Lauren Bacall. Mrs Alexsis (an extra with a speaking part!) remarks that she died last summer. Audrey says it will be nice to read what she said near the end. Maria picks up the ringing phone and tells Audrey it is someone wanting to book a nail appointment. Audrey apologises.and says that they are in a bit of a hiatus at the moment and invites her in for a touch up! Luke walks in and Maria laughingly suggests he has come in for a touch up?! He misses the point and invites her out for the evening. Audrey comes off the phone and starts flirting with him. A little embarrassed Luke said he came to invite Maria out for the evening (as if someone would ask a girl out on a date in front of her boss!). Audrey then starts to gossip about Mrs Alexis. Realising they weren't interested she offers to put the kettle on. Maria suggests that Audrey is in love with him! She asks Luke what he plans for tonight, and he says as Tyrone is away visiting Fiz, he will cook dinner for her. She is surprised that he can cook, but he says he is like Jamie Oliver. Audrey butts in and tells her to say yes.

Alya is explaining to Yasmeen and Kal that she is going out with Gary. Gary then awkwardly buts in and says that they are not ... Yasmeen asks if he means building a ship in a bottle or memorising the capital cities of the world? Alya then explains they are not sleeping together. Yasmeen says she hoped not. Gary says that he realises he hasn't got the best track record in the world. Kal intervenes and suggests robbing the neighbours. Yasmeen says Alya is an adult now and should be left to get on with her life. Yasmeen asks Gary not to let her down. Alya thanks her, and goes off to the wedding fair. After they go, Kal says it is a disaster waiting to happen, but Yasmeen says that is what she thought about him and Leanne. She says she is not happy with it, but as they have broken up previously and got back together, it means she has given it serious thought.

Gary sees Roy on his way to Court. He wishes him all the best and says if it were down to him all the charges would be dropped. Roy appreciates the sentiments. Sinead and Chesney are also there, and Sinead is giving Gary fowl looks. Chesney tries to explain that both Roy and Gary feel as bad about it as each other. Sinead tells him that he didn't see it, and Chesney explains he realises but they seem to have made up now.

In the Rovers Kal is telling Kevin and Luke that he wants to see the best for his daughter. Kevin recounts that his eldest daughter had a fling with an English teacher then went to London to become a glamour model and his youngest fell for religion and then girls ! Kevin suggests that he should just accept it. Changing the subject Luke wonders if he should make Roast Lamb for his dinner with Maria. Kal says women don't want a lot of red meat on their date, and Kevin suggest something light and salady, Kal intervenes and suggests pasta. Maria then wanders in and asks Luke that as he is doing the cooking she should bring the wine. Kevin then says that she is in for a real treat with Luke's cooking.

Eva is surprised that Kylie hasn't contacted David either by telephone or text. She thinks it is weird and wonders if he is worried. She says she has made her choice, but is concerned what to tell Max (but it was David that chucked her out !) Eva says she doesn't agree with her, but she is still her best mate. She is still his wife and Max and Lily's mother. She can understand why she hasn't taken any calls from David, but surprised she hasn't taken any from her. She is worried something maybe wrong. Eva says as soon as she is finished here shift, the two of them should go down to the dodgy pub and see if she is there.

Now Amy is playing with a food blender. Tracy tells her to stop fiddling with electrical appliances. She tells her that her grandfather's first wife was electrocuted (wow that is going far back, that was Valerie Barlow). Katy comes in shouting saying that Amy has been frightening Faye by telling her that she can hear dead people. Katy says she told Faye that she could see her late birth mother. Tracy turns to Amy who says she has the gift. Tracy half apologises on behalf of Amy but says aren't they both too old to believe in ghosts. They leave and Tracy tells Amy not to wind up people. Amy explains that they haven't got any sense of humour.

Over in the factory the basque has gone missing. Sean jokingly says some robbers came in over lunchtime and stole that and left the computers behind ! Sinead is getting annoyed as it took a long time to make and now it has gone. Sally wonders if Beth has taken it to get an early look at it. Then Alya comes in looking very sheepish. Sally says she thought she was going to the Wedding Fair, when Alya turns to Sinead saying she should have asked. She said she mentioned it Sean and Julie, but Sean says he never suggested that she should take it to the Wedding Fair. Sinead wants to know where it was now. Alya says she was showing to people as a possible new line. She says she hasn't sold it. When she got there she showed it to a buyer as they were handing out canopies and wine ... she then produces the basque and it is has a big wine stain on it.

Gary asks Kirk if he has thought what he is going to the wedding as. He though Darth Vader as they both like the film. Gary explains that nobody will see his face, and it will be difficult to kiss the bride or eat and drink !

Roy draws up in a taxi. Chesney asks him how it went, but he heads straight for his front door.

Eva and David go to the other pub. They can't see her. David said if she was there, they would be able to hear her first! Callum walks out. David grabs his collars and asks where Kylie was. David looks at him menacingly. So will David get the better of Callum? What is going to happen with the basque? Will Kirk find himself a wedding outfit? More to follow... . Now I have some good news for you. After her break Margaret is ready to resume writing these Friday episode reports, Thanks for reading me!! I will, no doubt, pop up somewhere again in the future.

Martin Rosen

Written by Cardy O'Donnell Directed by Michael Lacey

Richard is off on an exotic Asian holiday so I'm still filling in for him! Happy New Year, Corrie fans!

David and Callum trade a few shoves and knocks, David insisting that Callum tell him where Kylie is. Callum certainly makes it sound like he's in contact with her, in fact, makes it sound like they're back together. Does David believe it? Hard to say.

Tyrone, Yasmeen and Chesney are in the cafe with Roy. Roy was sentenced for 100 hours of community service and he's appalled that he didn't get worse. He won't accept that there were extenuating circumstances. Yasmeen must have called the father of one of the thugs that she'd confronted earlier. His father is a Chief Inspector and it sounds like that's going to sort out the situation. Roy asks them all to leave.

Sinead is horrified at the wine stain. Julie pulls a bottle of soda water out the cupboard and assures her that it will get the stain out. The other two are skeptical but Julie shows them that the wine is coming off. Alya offers to help Sinead de-sequin the material for a good cleaning, feeling guilty that she was responsible. Sinead reluctantly agrees.

Norris is getting excited on the phone in the Kabin. He's got to run an urgent errand and runs out of the shop. Rita knows that look. He's up to summat! Mary, Anna and Gary are also in the Kabin and Mary asks after Gary's injuries. Gary's polite but Anna makes a pointed remark about his bruises, implicating Roy without naming him. Rita leans over and glares at her, saying they're still waiting to hear about Roy's sentence and Gary adds that he hopes that Roy gets off easy. Yasmeen and Kal arrive as they others are leaving. Gary thanks Kal for not objecting to him and Alya getting back together and promises not to mess up again. Kal's sure he will and knows Alya will realize her mistake before long.

David is hanging around outside the pub with Eva trying to talk him into going home. Macca comes out and David gives him grief for being Callum's lap dog. David offers him 20 to show him where Callum lives. When he ups the offer to 50, Macca jumps at it and then asks David for advice for thinning hair. This man seems to be a few sandwiches short of a picnic, if you know what I mean!

Amy has summoned Norris, she's told him she's seen Nana Blanche again, at the table doing the crossword. She's being very dramatic, her hair hanging down over her eyes. Norris clearly believes it all. He looks at the crossword which has "Norris Must Pay" in the squares! He's mystified. He then notices Amy staring behind him and is told she just came in the back door. Norris nearly jumps out of his skin when the back door slams and pots are heard clanging in the kitchen. (the French doors to the kitchen are shut) Amy mutters that Blanche is saying that Norris is a bad man. It's so obviously a wind up! Tracy opens the doors and Norris jumps again, cringing. Tracy cracks "I haven't got me lippy on but I'm not that bad!" Amy starts to giggle and Norris finally realizes he's been had. When he scolds them as being as bad as each other, Tracy does rightly accuse him of putting ideas about ghosts in Amy's head in the first place. He goes out and Amy and Tracy high-five each other.

Roy brings the trash outside. Rita comes by to say hello and is joined by Audrey. He tells them that he thought about how disappointed Hayley would have been with him. He tells them he has to do 100 hours and plans to fulfill that with dedication. The women smile and they know he will do exactly as he's promising. He will be opening the cafe on Monday, not afraid to hide from the world now. He will face his judgers. Audrey reminds him he doesn't have to face it alone. Owen and Izzy also come by to see how he is. They both agree that Gary is fine and it was his fault. Roy lets them know that Anna is welcome to come back to work if she wants to. Roy goes back inside. Owen invites Izzy for tea but she doesn't want to because Gary will be there. They decide to go for a quick drink first.

Luke is making mushroom risotto for Maria who is impressed. Maria realizes Luke hasn't told Tyrone she's going to be there. He offers her red or white wine and naturally, to be contrary, she wants rose. He tells her to stir the risotto while he nips to the shop.

Macca has led David to where Callum lives and gets the money from David but won't go up with them.

Tyrone is not in Wolverhampton after all and has arrived home with Chesney to get Joseph's truck. He's taken aback to see Maria cooking in his kitchen.

David and Eva go into the building. He doesn't think Eva needs to be with him but she insists. They climb the stairs, Eva warning him not to lose his temper. David tells her he just wants Kylie to come home to her kids! (he's changed his tune) David knocks on the door and then calls Kylie through the letter slot. Nobody's home so David kicks the door in. There are no lights on and nobody answers him. He turns on the lights and has a look around. Eva finds an ornament of an owl with bags of pills inside. Then David finds something he thinks is Kylie's just as Callum and a couple of his dudes come in.

Anna finds Gary holding Jake with Alya cuddling up. Izzy arrives to pick up Jake and isn't best pleased to see Alya. (Another blonde baby with a red head and brunette for parents). Owen and Anna have a whispered but not so subtle argument in the kitchen, Owen hissing that Gary's rubbing Izzy's face in it and Anna defending Alya as caring about Gary, more than Owen does any road. Alya realizes she should leave and does. Owen tells Anna about Roy's offer. Anna dismisses it.

Erica comes into the Bistro to see Nick. She asks for a drink before Leanne goes to get Nick. She then talks to Leanne about how she thinks Nick feels about her. Leanne puts that to rest, Nick had thought Erica had fallen for him! Erica is relieved that both she and Nick seem to be on the right wavelength at last. Nick comes out and jumps into teasing him, telling him she's found love and just can't leave him. He's clearly uncomfortable.

Maria tells Tyrone she was here with Luke. Tyrone is a bit awkward with her when Luke finally gets back. Turns out there's an accident on the M6 so Tyrone is going to Wolverhampton in the morning. They invite him to join them and after a little persuasion, he accepts.

David realizes Macca brought Callum there. Eva threatens to scream and Callum gets one of the men to pull her outside the flat so he and David can talk. Callum gets the better of David physically and tells him that Kylie doesn't want to talk to him. David insists she's only with Callum because of the drugs and will be back. Callum orders David not to come back, with a threat of physical harm if he does.

At the Bistro, Erica and Nick are at a table. She is pouring it on thick, not letting him get in a word. Leanne is watching with amusement. Erica tells him she'll move in tonight and at that, Leanne starts laughing and he realizes that Erica is having him on and she tells him she hasn't fallen for him and he not with her, right? He agrees. She tells him he's lovely and it looks like she's actually saying goodbye, off to see to her mother.

Roy comes to Mary's motor home with a peace offering of parkin. She opens the door. He gives her the confection with an apology. She's a bit off hand with him. She knows he's had a bad year and was afraid of the yobs but there's never an excuse for violence. He wholeheartedly agrees and says he won't bother her again. She says she doesn't mean never to bother her again, just not now. Sounds like she'll forgive him.

Anna comes out of the corner shop and sees Roy. She asks if he needs her Monday because she does need the job. Tracy walks by with a few rude and callous remarks at his expense, calling him "Clobber Cropper".

Beth is cuddling with Kirk in the pub, looking forward to next week. Audrey and Sean discuss outfits and Julie puts off Beth's question about Sinead and the basque. But Sinead arrives just then. When Beth asks her, anxious to see it, Sinead just says she wants it to be just right. She doesn't seem upset so the clean up must have been successful. She and Beth bicker and Julie sidetracks the conversation, asking about the cake. It was going to be something Roy was going to do but Julie offers to do it if Roy can't, under the circumstances. Sean isn't so sure that's a good idea. Sinead winks and Julie and whispers her thanks.

Maria and Luke and Tyrone have had their meal. Looks like it was a bit awkward all around. Tyrone offers to go upstairs but Maria needs to go, anyway. Luke offers to walk her home but can't get her to invite him in for a cup of coffee. She gives him a quick peck and leaves alone, leaving Luke exasperated at the turn of events.

Julie and Sinead talk. Sinead says she's got the stain out and just has to let it dry before putting the sequins back on which will take her all night. Julie assures her it will be ok. Sean is wistful about weddings. He'd love a tacky Vegas wedding. Julie would opt for a luxury cruise. Eva and David arrive. Eva, and Audrey who's there, both agree he should leave Callum alone but David is anxious to find Kylie. David threatens to make Callum pay for tearing his family apart.

Tvor


Monday 5 January

Welcome to 2015 and all the best of the new year to you all!

Written by Simon Crowther Directed by Nickie Lister

Michael is worried about David going into unsavoury parts of town. He seems to be under the impression that David is too sensitive and frail for fighting. David might look like a rake but he's a tougher nut than Michael thinks, protests David. Michael cautions him not to go crashing about, Kylie will come back if he's patient. That's another thing David isn't, though, is patient. He warns David not to do anything daft as Gail's back this afternoon.

Kirk tells Maria about their first dance song (All Night Long by Lionel Ritchie) which makes her eyebrows rise but she says nothing about how unusual it is. She asks about his speech. He's pretty nervous about it because he's not much of a public speaker, he confesses. He asks if Luke is coming and she very quickly says he isn't. She's under so much stress as it is between bridesmaid duties and doing everyone's hair. And, she adds, she and Luke are just casual and mentions not wanting to introduce him to her parents and that's the main problem, I'm guessing. Maria is astonished that Kirk's costume for the wedding wasn't pre-vetted by Beth, and he won't tell her what it is either. Okay then, she says and heads back to the salon. Kirk looks very worried.

Sinead and Alya are still working on the basque and chatting but they don't seem to agree on much. Alya reckons sewing knickers is probably boring and Sinead just shrugs, saying that building the pyramids was probably boring to the Romans. She's corrected by Alya as it was the Egyptians and says she's been there and they're a bit rubbish with all the tourists and busses. It seems like Sinead would be more likely impressed by one of the wonders of the world. Alya apologizes for the basque incident. Sinead finishes off. Alya asks if she and Chesney will get married one day. Sinead thinks it's likely. Maybe.

Maria and Audrey are having their first coffee when David comes in. Audrey, too, is worried about David hanging round the bad areas of town and says the same thing as Michael, that Kylie will come back eventually. What I don't understand is why she would when David was the one that threw her out. I wouldn't that likely to return. David gets fed up with the scolding and leaves again.

Michelle arrives at the Bistro, greeted by Nick who goes off on a tangent about insomnia and your head being all over the place, pining for someone. Michelle brushes it off, the thought of Steve is not keeping her away. Possibly Nick is missing Erica? Or is he thinking back to his breakup with Leanne? Anyway, Michelle has a breakfast meeting and the fella, Hamish, looks kind of nice. She manages to slip in that she and her boyfriend are broken up (regarding a discussion about her watch that Steve had given her). Hamish wants to book a party for his daughter's 16th birthday.

Anna is at work, being polite to the customers but also very cool and she's pushing in front of Roy when he moves to serve someone. David is sulking at a table when Eva arrives. He's very down in the dumps, now. He's starting to accept that Kylie only cares for herself, her scuzzy boyfriend and the drugs, not him or Eva or the kids. Eva says it isn't true and reckons Kylie will come back. David doesn't think she'll dare. He leaves with Eva hollering behind him not to do anything stupid. Roy brings dirty plates back from the tables. He points out that Anna is using his spatula but when he picks up another one, she rudely turns away and continues to use the one she's got. Cow.

Sinead brings the basque out to show Beth. Beth is stunned and breathless. It's gorgeous and they all love it!

David hasn't returned to the salon. Eva had come to look for him but they don't know where he is. Maria is surly about David skiving work. Eva seems to be convinced that if everyone has been telling David not to do anything daft, that's exactly what he's going to do. Probably right and all.

David is at home on the phone. He tells the other person that he'll be in waiting for them.

Jason comes into the cafe and joins Chesney and Jason. Anna finally has the grace to apologize about the spatula and admits it was spite but that tone of voice doesn't sound very apologetic, it sounds like she's making a very rude point. Back to the lads, Jason is winding up Kirk up about losing his freedom. Jason is all bluster, saying he may be with Eva but still does whatever he wants. Just then Eva calls him and he agrees to go to Frescos for her. Chesney teases him about it but later asks if Jason will look at their radiator which doesn't seem to be working.

There's a knock on the door and David rushes to answer it. It's a police officer. He is about to inform the officer some things about Kylie when they're interrupted by Audrey and Eva. He says everything is ok but insists they leave him alone.

Sinead is adjusting Beth's crinoline. Julie reckons people should dress up as other 80s well known icons including miner's (the miner's strike). But she and Dev can't make up their minds what to wear. Sean asks if Roy is coming. Beth snaps that he's not.

David is telling the copper about Callum, a drug dealer and he explains how he went to find his wife at the pub. He knows his wife is getting speed from Callum and he's worried. Outside, Audrey and Eva are peering in through the window, waiting for David to finish. Nick and Michael both come up and are surprised to hear what David's up to.

Kirk arrives in the factory and notices most of the workers are not at their machines. Alya nervously says they're all in the ladies' loos and he's not to go in. Tsk. As if. We can hear voices in the background and they don't sound happy. Alya talks to Izzy, tries to make peace but Izzy isn't having it. She figures they should just stay out of each other's way. Alya protests that she didn't do anything wrong but Izzy doesn't want to be mates. Alya reminds her that she's her superior though what she's pulling rank for, I don't know.

The officer has gone and David is defending his decision to his family. Nick does think that it's better that the police look for Kylie than David. There is then an argument over who gets to pick up Gail. Michael offers to pick up Max from school.

Jason has come to Chesney's to look at the radiator and they chat about what Chesney might say in his speech and what he is going to wear for a costume. Then Jason hints about putting the kettle on. Builders, eh?

David and Nick are moaning about women in the Bistro. Nick wonders if they get it from. David didn't realize Kylie was quite this wild when he met her. Maria runs in and finds David and tells him she's backed up and needs his help. She gives him a mouthful but Nick pulls her back and says that David is busy.

Eva and Michelle talk about Hamish, nice and he was single! Michelle agrees he was nice but doesn't seem overly keen. Hamish himself arrives to see her. He seems to be making an excuse to see her because his real reason appears to be to ask her for a drink, tomorrow night. She backs down and says she's just getting out of a relationship. He backs down too but Eva moves over and reveals that Michelle did say he was nice, embarrassing her. He leaves them to it and goes. Eva can't believe Michelle turned him down and points out all the disadvantages that Steve brought to the relationship. Eva asks now much longer she's going to lick her wounds and compares the men with a heavy slant in Hamish's favour. Michelle decides. She turns around and goes outside just as Hamish is getting in his car. But when he rolls down the window, she bottles it and says she was going to the shop. They say awkward goodbyes but then there's a bit more small talk.

Michael has brought Max home from school. He'd brought Max's bike but Max is just walking it home rather than riding it. Michael witters on about his own boyhood and allows Max to say outside. He goes inside to take a call as his mobile is on the sideboard. It's Gail and she's back on British soil. He sits down to talk to her. Outside, Max meets up with Callum who invites him to go to the Red Rec with the bike with him. Max doesn't want to go with him, he's not allowed to go with strangers. Callum lies and says it was ok with David. He encourages Max to go and promises to have him back for his tea.

Tvor

This is the first update I've posted since hearing the incredibly sad and unexpected news about Anne Kirkbride. Although almost everyone reading this will never have met her in person I am sure we will all miss her fabulous character of Deirdre and I just wanted to acknowledge how much pleasure her wonderful acting has given me over the years.

And now I bring you the second episode from 5th January that was written by Martin Allen and directed by Nickie Lister

Michelle loses her nerve and waves goodbye to Hamish as he drives off in his car. Across the street, we see Michael calling for Max.

Michelle goes back into the Rovers and confesses to Eva that she bottled it. Then Steve comes loping in from the back. Michelle tries speaking to him about the mess at Streetcars but all Steve seems interested in is the fact they've run out of smoky bacon crisps and he has to make do with a pack of ready salted.

David's discovered Max is missing but while he lays into Michael, Nick organizes a plan of action. He and David will go looking and leave Michael at home in case Max turns up. Nick asks Luke to keep an eye on the street as well.

In the Rovers Michelle's lamenting to Eva that she's been with Steve so long she's forgotten how to flirt with men. She's obviously regretting her lost opportunity with Hamish. Eva advises her to do something about it and give him a call.

Nick and David are back from their search but there's still no sign of Max. As they're questioning Michael on the doorstep about exactly what happened, Gail arrives home with Audrey. It doesn't take her long to realise something's up. David breaks the news that Max has gone missing.

Round at Beth and Kirk's Jason is working on the radiator, our Craig is starving and they've run out of milk. Beth sends Kirk out with a shopping list whilst simultaneously telling our Craig she's decided on a perfect outfit for him for the wedding: he can go as Boy George. This causes some consternation with our Craig who confuses him with baby George, son of Prince William.

Max is riding his bike at the Red Rec with Callum. As children are apt to do he starts asking questions: How do you know my mum? Do you know when she's coming back? Callum appears slightly surprised at this one. He asks Max if he misses her and says he reckons she'll be back soon.

Back at Coronation Street David's on the phone giving a description of Max to the police. Then Michael has a thought. From something Max said he wonders if he might have gone back to the school. He goes inside to get his coat before setting off to check. When he's gone David wonders to Nick whether he's done the right thing calling the police. What if Callum's got Max? Unless Kylie did it, suggests Nick. They debate whether they should go to Callum's place. David says it's going to get dark soon so Nick suggests they have one final look nearby.

We return to the Red Rec where Max is also worrying it's about to get dark. He asks Callum if he can go home now. "You're not scared are you?" asks Callum. Max says no but David will be wondering where he is. Callum asks what's so special about him and Max replies that he's like his dad. Callum tells Max you need to stand on your own two feet in this world, you can't rely on anyone. He says that is what he's there for, to help Max grow up big and strong.

Craig is having a fit - he's just found a picture of Boy George on the internet and he tells Beth there's no way he's going to walk up the aisle dressed like that. But their argument is interrupted by a shout from Jason, followed by a jet of water as the end of the radiator comes off. As Jason battles with a spanner to try and stem the flow there's a knock at the door and we witness the arrival of what, at first glance, appears to be the three witches out of Macbeth. In reality they are Beth's mother Nancy, sister Arlene and grandmother Agnes and it's not a pretty sight. As Agnes plonks herself down on the sofa, Nancy and Arlene are distracted by the sight of Jason who is taking off his soaking wet t-shirt. The two women are practicality salivating at the view and want to know if Beth's going to introduce them. They look disappointed when they discover it's not Kirk and even more so when he walks through the door at that moment and they catch sight of him for the first time.

Back at the Platts' David takes a call from the police but just as he's speaking they spot Max through the window, arriving back with Callum. Max is full of excitement about what he's done but Gail tactfully takes him inside. David rushes forward to thump Callum but Nick stops him just in time. Callum tells David to meet him in the pub at half seven before swaggering off up the street. Nick tells David he doesn't have to do it. "Yeah, I do," David replies.

In the Rovers Kev shows Luke a 1980s jacket he's found lurking in the back of the wardrobe and says he'll lend it to him to wear to the wedding. Luke looks worried, Maria looks even more so but in her case it has nothing to do with the fact that the jacket is so hideous. She tries to explain to Luke that she doesn't want him to go with her to the wedding. It's early days and she doesn't want her parents thinking they're an item before they're really sure about their relationship. Luke tells her he's cool about it but it's perfectly obvious he isn't.

Over by the bar, Sean's arrived for work and Eva's off out. As she leaves she tells Michelle to ring him. "Ring who?" ask Sean, his ears pricking up.

Meanwhile round at number 5 Jason is putting away his tools while Beth's family make themselves at home. Grandma Agnes is a real character. She asks Chesney if he's looking after her favourite great-grandchild, looking lovingly at Sinead, before telling Craig he has the look of her uncle Harold before the dropsy took him. She looks none too impressed by Kirk, especially when he tells her they're having hot dogs for their tea. Arlene looks lustfully at Jason and says she bets he likes a nice hot dog. Jason says he has to go and meet his girlfriend. "She hit the jackpot, didn't she?" comments Agnes, giving him the once-over. As soon as Jason's gone Beth has words with her family. While poor Kirk stands awkwardly behind her in the kitchen Beth tells them to all get one thing straight, Kirky is the best thing to ever happen to her.

Back in the Rovers, Sean is talking to Michelle about Hamish. She tells him it was nice feeling attractive again. Sean says it breaks his heart seeing what's happened to her and Steve but adds that she has to move on some time.

Luke says thanks but no thanks to Kev for the loan of the jacket but doesn't say why he doesn't need to borrow it. Maria thanks him for not saying anything about why he's not going to the wedding. She asks if he'd like another drink or, she says suggestively, they could go back to his place. Luke says who could resist an offer like that but he is obviously very hurt that Maria doesn't want to publically acknowledge their relationship.

Sean has gone through to the back to have a word with Steve. He says that Michelle is breaking her heart because of him and that one of her clients has asked her out but she's wavering. Sean tells Steve this might be his last chance.

Round at number 5 poor Kirk has to listen while Beth's family ask about the wedding. What happened to their original plans for a big do in the country with swans and violins? Straight-talking Agnes says she expects they couldn't afford it and asks Kirk if it was him who came up with the idea of this 1980s nonsense. Beth defends Kirk before taking him off to the kitchen to fetch more drinks. After they've gone Agnes tells Sinead that she's her favourite and that she's going to leave all her money to her when she goes because Sinead's the only person who ever cared about her. Chesney asks Sinead if she saw that coming. Sinead says her great Gran says that to her every time and laughs because she hasn't got any money. Sinead says to Chesney that this is her family and now's the time to jump ship if he wants to but on the basis of his own mother Chesney reckons they're made for each other.

Back in the Rovers Sean advises Michelle to give it one more shot with Steve. He tells her to go and ask him straight out where she stands.

Callum walks in, sees David waiting at a table, and orders a pint of lager.

We go through to the back where Michelle asks Steve if she can have tomorrow night off. He's very off-hand and seems annoyed but says he'll arrange cover. She tells him someone's asked her out. Steve says he hopes it goes well. "Really?" asks Michelle. "I'm really happy for you," says Steve, not sounding in the least like he means it.

Kirk's still struggling to make a good impression with Beth's family and it's not helped by getting their names muddled up. Sinead tries to reassure him not to worry. She says they're like this with everyone and that if they didn't like Kirk they wouldn't even be talking to him. The boys are all sleeping up the road to make room for everyone and they're keen to make a move. "So much for a family get together'" grumbles Agnes as they go off to gather their overnight bags.

In the Rovers Callum is setting David straight. He tells him never to do a thing like that again, he has no idea what he's messing with. Callum says today was a warning and if David crosses him again ... he leaves the threat hanging in the air. David says he knows Kylie's staying with him and asks where she is. Callum replies that he has no idea. He says he hasn't seen her in over a week and that's the truth. David looks at Callum. Should he believe him or not?

In the back Michelle is on the phone. We hear her ask if the offer of a drink is still on. She says that 7.30 would be fine.

We return to David and Callum. David wants to know how come he found one of Kylie's earrings in his flat if she's not with him. Callum replies that he didn't say he hadn't seen her at all. He claims she spent Christmas with him and smirks that he doesn't know where she gets the energy. When he woke of the day after Boxing Day she'd gone. Callum says that if David pulls another stunt like he did before she won't be the only person to go missing. David replies that he's going to find her if it's the last thing he does and that he's going to bring her home. "Not if I find her first," threatens Callum.

Karen


Wednesday 7 January

Michelle begs Sean to take her shift at the pub so that she can go out on her date with Hamish. Eventually, reluctantly, he agrees. Just then Liz comes into the bar, grumbling because Steve won't change the barrels. Michelle tells her that Sean is going to cover her shift, saying that she's meeting girlfriends in town.

Sally reprimands Kirk for making a mistake with the packaging at the factory. She asks if he has pre-wedding nerves. "What's he got to be nervous about?" asks Beth. Julie points out that it's a big day, he has to stand in front of lots of people and get his lines right. Kirk then remembers that he has to go and pick up his 1980s costume, and as he leaves to go and get it Beth warns him to behave later, on his stag night, no strippers! Kirk tells her he's only having a drink at Tyrone's. She tells him to practice for their first dance, she wants it to be perfect. Beth is really excited, but Kirk looks worried.

David gets off the phone to the police and tells Gail and Michael that Callum's flat has been searched and there were no signs that Kylie has been living there. Michael tries to offer encouragement but David snaps at him to keep his nose out, he's still cross with him for putting Max in danger.

Kirk, Craig and Chesney are in the shop when Tyrone and Luke come in to buy the drink for later. Kirk suggests some soft drinks and they look at him in amazement. "But it's your stag do," says Luke. Kirk explains that Beth told him not to get too drunk, but Tyrone brushes that aside saying it's tradition, he has to. Tyrone then pulls a pair of dark glasses out of his pocket and puts them on, saying they're for tomorrow, and asking what they think. "Who are you, Stevie Wonder?" asks Chesney. Tyrone tells him he's a Blues Brother. Luke says he's now been uninvited. The other three then pull out dark glasses of their own and put them on - they're going as the Blues Brothers too!

Michael, Eileen and Andrea are in the taxi office, trying to sort out invoices that match the bank statement.

David phones Becky to see if she knows where Kylie is but, he tells Gail, she doesn't. Gail doesn't answer. He then says he's going to try ringing Kylie's friends again, but still Gail makes no comment. Eventually he goes over to her and apologises. She tells him that it's not Michael's fault Kylie has gone missing, and it's not hers either. David says he knows, it's his fault, he chucked her out, but now he doesn't care what she's done, he wants her to come home for the kids' sake.

Beth, dressed in a bridal headdress and a sash, is starting her hen night at the Rovers, before they go off to her house where other members of her family are coming. Just then Sean's date, Billy the vicar, comes in and of course the hen party crowd, well especially Beth and Tracy, think he's the male stripper, and it's some awkward moments before Sean manages to say that he's a friend of his.

Kirk is just coming downstairs when he hears someone coming in the front door and he rushes back upstairs again. It's Beth's family, her mother, her sister and her auntie. Then, just as Kirk starts coming downstairs, they start criticising him, saying he's nice enough but they hoped for something better, especially as he packs boxes and sounds like Goofy.

Back in the pub, the hen party girls decide to have one more drink, and they go to the bar where they start chatting to Billy. They ask if he's allowed to be gay, and he tells them he believes he's living the life God wants him to live.

Michelle calls Sean over to a table for a chat. She's going through agonies of doubt as to whether or not to kiss Hamish on the first date, and where it might go from there. She starts to say she's going to cancel but Sean won't let her. She then gets up and heads to the door, only to be called back by Liz. She confesses to Liz that she's going on a date and says how Steve told her he hoped it goes well.

Round at Tyrone's, the guys are trying to decide what to do. Craig suggests a game where they stick the name of a famous person on their foreheads and then have to guess who they are. Luke thinks it sounds boring and puts some music on.

Michelle rushes into the bistro to meet Hamish. They're both nervous, and agree no pressure.

The hen party has moved to Beth's house, where Maria is discussing hairstyles and Julie, Maria and Sinead are practicing synchronised dancing as they're going to dress as Bananarama for the wedding. Tracy looks a little subdued and Beth goes over to her and quietly tells her she's sorry she never got her wedding.

Back in the pub, Sean asks Billy if he'd like to attend the wedding with him as his guest and Billy says he can never resist free food.

Steve comes down into the bar and starts collecting glasses as Eileen and Andrea come in. They're pretty fed up and Andrea asks him why he spent so much money on the car. He hasn't really got an answer and goes off to get cigarettes.

Back at Tyrone's house, the guys are sitting with Post-it notes stuck on their foreheads, but the games doesn't seem to be going too well. Craig tells him he's glad he's marrying his mum. Then Chesney tells Kirk he's got to practice his dance for the wedding, but Kirk jumps up and says he's not going to do it, he's not doing any of it, he'll let her down, everyone will laugh at him and see what a loser he is, she'll wish she never married him and will want a divorce. He's going to call it off. They stare at him in amazement as he rushes out of the door.

Michelle and Hamish seem to getting on really well, chatting away over dinner. He says he's had a really nice time and hopes they can do it again. He says he'll walk her home.

Chesney goes out and finds Kirk pacing up and down on the pavement. He tells Chesney that he packs boxes and sounds like Goofy. Chesney reminds him that Beth adores him, he's got a steady job, he's honest, caring and gentle and loves dogs. Ches is honoured to be his best man.

Steve is outside the pub smoking a cigarette, when he sees Michelle and Hamish on the other side of the street. He goes to kiss her goodnight but she pulls back and then notices Steve watching. She leans forward and kisses him!

Anne Logan


Friday 9 January

After three months training for and starting a new job, I'm back! And with a really fun episode with just the single dark undercurrent that is Steve McDonald.

We begin with Chesney busy ironing and Kirky busy pacing. He thinks he's going to be a let-down. He thinks he's going to forget the dance routine. He gets a text message and hopes it's Beth cancelling the dance. It is Beth. Disappointingly for Kirk, she just wants to say she loves him and can't wait to be his wife. Chesney tries to calm down the groom, promising him it'll all be fine. He goes upstairs and Kirk leaves the house, leaving his phone on the table.

Beth's family is crowding out the front room next door. Her grandmother, played by the wonderful Juliette Kaplan (Pearl in Last of the Summer Wine) doesn't dare light up because of all the hair spray. Girls Just Want To Have Fun is playing in the background. With a big Tah-Dahhh the bridesmaids come downstairs - it's Tracy, Sinead and Maria as Bananarama, complete with crinkled hair and white dungarees. Then it's "Bethan Tinker, come on down!" and there she is, gorgeous in her corset and all big hair and lace as Madonna's Like A Virgin incarnation.

Down the road, Julie has her tongue out as she concentrates so hard she doesn't hear Mary open the front door. She does hear the deliberate slam, though, and nearly leaps out of her skin, icing forcer in hand. It seems Dev has sent Mary a message saying Julie needs help. And so here Mary is, complete with her own icing forcer - the kind of icing forcer the Waterblaster people would make. Poor Julie's torn between wanting Mary out of there and desperately needing help to finish the cake. "Let's get squeezing!" says Mary.

Maria's been to the salon to get another half dozen cans of hairspray. She meets Luke and they have a brief chat about Beth's Nan drinking Sangria back at the house. Steph sees her brother and looks a little worried about him. As Maria heads back to the house, Chesney comes out into the street looking for Kirk. He denies there's anything wrong.

Liz and Tony talk about a shopping trip - Liz isn't going to see Andy without a pre-holiday spree. She says it'll be fine leaving the pub to Steve's supervision. Michelle's on hand and he's dealt with weddings before.

Down the street, Julie and Mary carry the cake out of Dev's, doing a good impression of the catering equivalent of the song Right Said Fred. The cake, hidden in a box, seems quite long and they engage in the most aggressive co-operation seen in a long time.

Waiting outside to see the bride come out are Tim and Maddy. He tells her she looks Ace. She does, too, as Madonna in her curly bob period (1991, I looked it up).

Mary and Julie stomp towards the pub, Mary on one end of the cake box forcing Julie to walk fast backwards at the other end!

The bridal party comes out of the house and Maddy is appalled to see the bride has come as Madonna. Sophie comes out and she, too, is Madonna, this time in her Blond Ambition incarnation (a brunette version). Tim thinks it's all just a laugh and doesn't matter. Sally reveals she and Tim will be going as Dollar. As Beth goes to get into the wedding campervan (Does anyone know where the street residents park their cars? Where does Steve keep the campervan? Why is Mary's motorhome not in the street unless it's part of a storyline? And no, "Because it would get in the way of the cameras" is not an acceptable explanation)... Anyway, Beth sees Maddy and Sophie and looks absolutely furious!

It's strange, but although the bride is leaving for the registry office, some of the guests are only just getting dressed. Sean arrives downstairs as Jimmy Connors - or so it seems. But Eileen's got it wrong and he's channelling George Michael (Club Tropicana era). Todd laughs. But then he would. Sean is upset that Billy isn't answering his texts. They were going as Wham. Todd suggests maybe Billy thinks a 1980s wedding is sacrilegious.

At the registry office, Julie greets Beth and breaks the news that Kirk isn't there yet. Maybe he's stuck in traffic? Yes, because the bride and groom will both have come via completely different routes. . . Sinead hopes Kirk hasn't got cold feet. Beth's very annoyed and it doesn't help that a couple come along who clearly haven't made any effort to fit in with the 80s theme. "I don't know who you are, but can't you read an invite?" she snaps. Oops, it's Maria and Kirk's mum and dad. They've just got off the plane and they didn't get an invitation - Kirk just sent them a text. Beth introduces herself and tells them it doesn't matter - their clothes look old enough to be from the 80s.

Sally's all dressed up and in comes David van Day. She practically swoons seeing Tim in the tousled blond wig. She used to have a picture of David on her wall and the things she imagined doing with him . . . She grabs him.

The registrar is threatening to go ahead with the next wedding, a couple of lesbians from Levenshulme. They've got five minutes. Tracy thinks it's all Beth's fault for having a fancy dress wedding and sending a message to the universe that they weren't taking it seriously. "I'll send a message to your face in a minute!" threatens Beth. "I love Kirk and I know there must be a very good reason why he's not here." Craig and Chesney arrive, dressed as the Blues Brothers, and ask if Kirk is there. They break the news that he's gone AWOL.

Beth's sad. She's not meant to get married. Her parents didn't get married because her father got kaylied in Bolton and didn't go to the ceremony. But what's this behind her? It's a van and Kirky gets out carrying a ghetto blaster. He's dressed as Adam Ant, the Prince Charming period. Awwwww. He explains that he couldn't let them know what was happening because he left his phone at home. He thought dressing as a Blues Brother was a cop-out and he should have made more of an effort so he went to the fancy dress shop in town. Beth is totally thrilled with her Prince Charming.

Kirk takes his place at the front of the room and Beth walks in to the sound of George Benson's "Nothing's Gonna Change My Love For You." Lovely lyrics.

Back in Coronation Street, Tim and Sally have christened the new sofa. They've missed the wedding but plan to go to the party and make up an excuse.

Beth promises to love Kirk through fat days and thin days, good hair days and bad hair days and everything in between, "because you, Kirky Sutherland, are a man in a million, the man of my dreams." The registrar asks Kirk to read his vows and he looks stricken, as if he's forgotten the piece of paper or the vows themselves. Chesney whispers that he should just say what he thinks. "I really love you, you know," Kirk tells Beth. "You're, like, Ace. I am never going to stop loving you." Awwwww (again).

Steve's slumped in the back room working on a Rubik's cube. Michelle's quite sarcastic and tells him he should talk to her about whatever's preying on his mind. He says nothing is, he's just gearing up for the reception. Michelle's phone rings. It's clearly Hamish and she arranges to go out with him. "Steve can cope," she says. She ends the call and tells Steve she can't work this shift. She's going out.

In the bistro, Steph tries to cheer up Luke. Todd says it's about time Maria had a straight boyfriend.

The reception's getting under way in the pub. Tim tells Norris they were delayed by an accident on Inkerman Street, a brewery lorry and a milk float. Norris wants a lot more detail. Dev came through that way and noticed nothing. Mary and Julie have a barbed conversation about costumes. Julie (Pretty In Pink) thinks Mary's come as a Ghostbuster, as has Dev. Mary points out that she's Sheena Easton (Morning Train video era). As people comment on the cake, Mary takes all of the credit.

Steve is slumped behind the bar with his cube and then gets up and goes out the back. The bride and groom have arrived and Kirk takes the microphone and asks for some hush. He wants to get his speech out of the way. Steve's back and several people ask him for drinks. Steve looks at them blankly. "Just help yourselves," he mutters, and leaves again. In the silence that's fallen, Tracy shouts, "Wooh hooh! Free bar!" and there's pandemonium.

Sean's outside in the hope that Billy will arrive. Eileen comes along dressed as Boy George ("Come On Eileen" era, of course!), though she's wearing a Frankie Goes To Hollywood T-shirt. Sean has a go at her for mixing her icons.

Inside, Beth announces the wedding dance, to a nice Lionel Ritchie number. But her mother somehow selects the wrong track and so the carefully rehearsed steps don't matter. Everyone is dancing, with Kirk's dad (played by the talented Steve Money) getting right into it.

Tony and Liz are back and come in through the back door. She immediately spots Tracy and others behind her bar and is furious. She shouts at them to get out of it and asks Tony to start serving. Then she goes in the back and shouts up the stairs: "I don't know where you are, Steve, but I'm gonna kill you!"

The End

Margaret Carr

Good evening everyone. Pleased to be back. First up - many thanks to Tvor for her exceptional efforts with the updates in my absence.

Second if anyone is interested in where I have been then there is a link to the blog and the photos at the very end of the email. We had a great time - if all of my post retirement holidays are that good then we are in for a wonderful time. Spain and Canada are next on the agenda.

And this update is being sent out after the sad announcement that Anne Kirkbride (Deirdre Barlow) has died after a short illness. She dedicated 42 years of her life to service of the Street and I would like to thank her for her efforts and use this forum to offer my condolences to her family on their loss. I have no doubt that her departure from the Street will be suitably fitting. And there will be no more wonky pottery or stuffed marrow. The Weatherfield One is free.

Coming back to the Street it took me a good few days to catch up with events. Which might explain why I am running late. This is series 56 episode 7 and it was written by Perrie Balthazar and directed by Nickie Lister with copyright remaining the property of ITV Productions.

The Kirk/Beth wedding party is in full flow at the Rovers; Steve is awol and Liz and Tony return to the mayhem of the guests who do not recognise each other's fancy dress and who are helping themselves to drinks from the bar. It certainly wipes a smile off her face as she and Tony set about restoring something approaching normality. Maria's father says he is paying for this round as Liz wants to start charging and Maria thanks him. Tracy suggests champagne and he immediately puts an arm around her and scoops her to the bar to get some, providing she does not tell the marauding hordes. (BTW Sally and Tim have managed to make the reception - they just do not do weddings have you noticed?).

After an ineffectual start by Kirk's mother, Beth silences the room and then her new m-i-l gives them another surprise present - flights to Cyprus and they get to spend the week with the in-laws in the donkey sanctuary. Dev is being chatted up by a tart and another of Beth's family points out that Sal has her dress on back to front, thereby identifying the reason for her absence from the earlier ceremony.

Steve has been hiding upstairs as he sneaks downstairs Liz gives him an earful as he plays with a rubik's cube, she snatches it off him - but he takes it back and fiddles with it before returning upstairs.

Kirk - Adam Ant - is worried about making a speech and is outside where Luke finds and tries to encourage him to return. He needs support but Luke says he is not invited - but Kirk says he must not spoil Beth's day - she would kill him. Luke agrees to support him.

Sean is bemoaning his lot as a singleton to Ty. The blonde is still all over Ghostbuster Dev. Is that a gun or are you pleased to see me - no says Julie it is a proton pack. Mary reveals the iced cake which says "Frankie Says Get Wed". It is time for the cake to be cut. The blonde is still all over Dev until Sinead drags her away. Dev is trying to be charming.

Maddie and Sophie are talking and the latter tries to get the former to glam up. Beth, the original Madonna emerges, and points out that she will not get the hump because they are both Madonna from March 1990 - out of place at an 80's do.

In the Bistro Hamish is chatting up Michelle who reckons she is grateful not to be at the do. Hamish decides to orders some cocktails.

Kirk is unable to give his speech but Beth drags him off. Sinead's mother, the blonde is all over Dev again and Julie delivers a piece of her mind.

Beth finds the courtyard decorated - Kirk had done it in case they needed somewhere quiet. They both breathe deeply and their song starts playing - so they start dancing. Then Beth asks for Kirk to promise that she can always have the last chocolate, the last tinny and the last of the hot water. He agrees she can have everything she wants. Maria sees them snogging and leaves them to it.

After the break Kirk's parents are discussing Kirk first's girlfriend. Luke tries to have a discussion with Maria but she does not want him there. Turns out the first girlfriend was when they were 12. Beth goes to talk to Tracy - she is not happy. Beth tries to get soppy but Tracy tells her not to - she re-assures Beth that she and Kirk are the real thing and Tracy says congratulations and departs.

Steve is outside, holding his head when Liz comes out, sees him and then retreats indoors again.

At the front of the pub Luke departs in a temper and Maria chases after him. Maria apologises for being a cow, reminds him she does not want anything serious and suggests that they go and make use of her empty flat. Dead pan Luke responds that she is going to have to try a bit harder than that. It takes a good 10 minutes before the penny drops and Maria realises that he is joking. They smile and depart together.

Dev and Julie meet outside Audrey's and Julie apologises. Weddings, alcohol and polyester are a powder keg waiting to explode. She is mortified. Dev says he quite liked it. It is so 21st century for the girl to be defending her man. He kisses her.

Mary and Sally are handing out cake.

It is time for the bouquet to be thrown. Sinead orders a line of the girls and Beth wants Sinead to catch it. Beth throws the flowers and Julie catches it - and immediately gives it to Dev.

Billy arrives - also with tennis racket and matching "Wham!" outfit.

Michelle kisses Hamish farewell - watched by Liz. Liz says he seems nice. Liz tells Michelle Steve needs her. Liz is worried about Steve - he is unrecognisable. Liz knows that Michelle still loves him and Liz tries to get Michelle to help her with Steve - Michelle says she wants Steve to be alright - but she cannot go through it all again. Liz accepts that Michelle (who clearly does still love Steve) is not going to happen.

Steve comes downstairs and apologises and Liz tells him that he is to go to Spain with her tomorrow and he agrees. Steve goes. Liz knows that she cannot leave her Steve in this state - she has to do something.

There is one more surprise for the happy couple outside. Sinead drives up in Ty's car and she is going to chauffeur them to the Bridal Suite at Cholmondley Park (or something like that) where Carla has paid for a night. Beth is going to give Kirk the ride of his life. And the car rolls out of the Street and into the night.

I will be back next week.

Richard


Monday 12 January

Written by Chris Fewtrell Directed by Duncan Foster

This is going to be kind of short. I've already written and saved it once but my pc seems to be very ill and I can't get to the file! (Thank heavens for the backup laptop!)

it's the Alahan twins' birthday and they're excited to go to that Annihilaser thing. Mary continues to be unimpressed by Julie's presence in Dev and the family's life. There's a lot of resentment there and I can see why. Mary is involved in the kids' homework project and Julie bounces in with a game for them to play instead. What do you think they're going to want to do? Sod the homework and rigorous schedule for a game of Twister.

Sharif is now spending time watching his chickens in what looks like a pen that's far too small for the number of birds in it. Yasmeen has nothing but contempt for his obsession. Laughed at his reply to Michael's joke wondering if the birds were actually roosters. "Oh they're hens alright, you can tell by the amount of pecking they do". Sharif has faith in the birds and he loves Yasmeen, really. Fun later in the cafe with Yasmeen and even Alya teasing her Sharif about the chickens with Roy about to lecture them all about egg laying species. However, at the idea of playing opera or soothing sounds to the birds, and bad puns, Sharif is fed up with them all making him the butt of their jokes.

Maria has spent the night with Luke but hustles him out early so Liam doesn't see and become confused, the poor mite. Naturally Luke feels a bit put off. Steph tells him Maria's just using him. He may secretly believe that as well but as Liam is going to have an overnight sleepover, he's invited out for a date. Progress. He's not altogether clued in on women no matter how much he might brag, though, because he only offers to get in a pizza but invites her to a romantic meal at the Bistro after Katy scolds him.

Ken decides to spend a few hours helping Tracy in the shop, to give her a break. Unfortunately, he also spends time lecturing Todd on the morals of pawn shops and it's putting off the punters. Tracy doesn't stay away for too long once that becomes evident.

Meanwhile, Tony has become aware at how difficult Tracy's finances are and he has decided to push his cause to get into that business. Coincidentally, later on in the day, Tracy buys some expensive kitchen mixers from a very dodgey looking man. Tony then happens to drop in and point out that they were stolen and the police will be out looking for them.

Somehow, Tracy manages to get hold of the erstwhile thief though I'm pretty sure he wouldn't have given her a contact number, would he? Apparently so because he returns but refuses to give her her money back. He gets rough with her in return and it doesn't look good.

David's still having quite a job dealing with suddenly being a single parent. Gail and Michael discuss ways to help. Michael wants to help as he owes them a lot. Throughout the morning there are several comments to Michael about holding on to the one you love and at one point, he's gazing at the tatty engagement rings in Barlow's Buys so he's getting ideas, isn't he?

Gavin's still ducking and diving. Steph is confused because after their New Year's snog, Gavin has not made any further approach. Leanne figures he could be a wrong'un and maybe she should back off. Steph goes cool and Gavin can't understand why. He finally confronts her but before they can discuss it further, Gavin's old boss shows up and he ducks down behind the bar while his ex (or the real Gavin's ex, actually) tells Steph Gavin asked her to marry her and then later on dumped her unceremoniously just before they were going on holiday and left her with the bill and the rent.

Tvor

Written by Chris Fewtrell and directed by Duncan Foster

The dodgy man who sold Tracy the mixers has her pinned up against the wall. But nobody threatens Tracy and gets away with it. She knees him hard in a place where it hurts just as Tony comes bursting through the door. Tony sends the man packing then tells Tracy it's a good job he was there to rescue her and says it's a dangerous business for a woman on her own. But Tracy reckons she's quite capable of looking after herself, as she's just proved.

Gavin is still hiding under the bar while Steph continues to try and palm off his ex-fiancee. Luke arrives and wants to know what's going on. Then Leanne comes in and asks who they're talking about. Angry-blonde-woman tells her it's Gavin-flaming-Rodwell who has a habit of using women, getting what he wants out them and then chucking them away. The others listen as Steph tells the woman she won't find Gavin there as he walked out last week. Finally the woman gives up but not before leaving Steph her phone number. A sheepish-looking Gavin emerges from under the bar.

Dev arrives home with a bunch of flowers for Julie to find all is not well. While the twins have been enjoying a game of Twister with Julie, Mary has been seething fit to bursting point over the fact that they haven't done their history project. Dev dispatches Julie to fetch a bottle of wine from his shop while he tries to pour oil on troubled waters. He tells Mary that Julie means well and she's just excited to be a part of the family but Mary is still ranting over the way Julie's upset the children's routine and her presence is having a detrimental effect on their lives. Dev promises to have a word with her. Mary threatens that if he doesn't she will.

Back in the Bistro Gavin's trying to explain himself. An angry Steph asks him if all the things the woman accused him of were true. "Apparently," replies Gavin which infuriates Steph even more because, as she points out, he was there. Gavin tells her he's not proud of any of it but he's not that person, not any more. He tries to get Luke on side but he says he'd never treat women like that. Leanne wants to know if any more psycho-ex-girlfriends are going to pitch up. Gavin continues to look awkward. Luke threatens Gavin that if he goes anywhere near his sister again he's going to wish his ex had caught up with him.

Julie arrives back at Dev's with the wine but the atmosphere with Mary is no better. She plonks a dish of her homemade Chimichangas on the table and says she'll fetch the twins downstairs and then leave them to it. Julie asks her to stay and eat with them. Dev stands behind Julie and shakes his head at Mary. Mary says she has to go. Julie insists she stays. Julie wins the argument and Mary sits down at the table, whether she and Dev like it or not.

Round at the Nazirs the atmosphere isn't much better. Alya thinks her grandfather is avoiding her because of her and Gary. Sharif goes outside to check on his chickens and Yasmeen complains that's all he ever thinks about now and that he comes to bed smelling of chicken feed.

In the Rovers Tony's on the phone to Liz. He reports back that apparently Steve is still no better, despite the fact that he's soaking up the Spanish sunshine. In the meantime, The Grimshaws discuss what they're going to have for their tea. They settle on a Chinese takeaway as there's a 4 meals for the price of 3 deal on at the moment. Sean's out so Eileen asks Eva to join them but Eva says she's going out with a mate. Jason complains he didn't know. Eva complains he never listens. Eileen asks Tony if he'd like to come in that case. He accepts but says he can't stop long as he has a few things he needs to sort out. Todd gives him a knowing look.

Gail's in the Bistro with Michael but she leaves him to have a chat with Gavin while she goes to help Nick look at wallpaper swatches for a make-over. Leanne doesn't look too convinced when Gail tells her she has an eye for that sort of thing.

Gavin and Michael seem to be bonding over a glass of wine. Gavin tells Michael what happened earlier and says that was the old Gavin Rodwell but he's not that person any more. Michael's pleased to hear it - he doesn't want his son making the same mistakes he did. They chat about Gail and Steph and Michael advises Gavin that if he cares about Steph he has to be straight with her and convince her he's changed.

In the backyard of the Rovers Tony is on his phone, leaving an angry, whispered message for someone. He tells them he needs to seem them tonight, they must text not call him and that then he'll ring back.

Steph's filling in Katy about what happened with Gavin. She tells her she got it wrong - she really thought he was a good bloke. Meanwhile Gavin's lamenting to Michael that he's messed up with Steph and he's sure she hates him now. Michael wants to know if Gavin's actually asked her how she feels. He admits he hasn't. Michael tells him if something's worth fighting for then he should go for it. Gavin asks Michael the same question about Gail. Michael admits he loves her but he's sure she's too good for him. So they make a pact - Gavin will tell Steph how he really feels about her if Michael will do the same with Gail.

Round Dev's dining room table the air is so frosty it's even managing to chill Mary's spicy Mexican Chimichangas. However hard she tries, Julie can't say anything without upsetting her. They move onto the subject of the forthcoming twins' birthday celebrations but even that turns out to be a disaster. Mary thinks they should go bowling but the twins reply they do that every year so Julie helpfully suggests "Annihilazer" which, as the name implies, is an activity involving lazer guns. It's the last straw for Mary who flounces out in a huff telling them to have a nice time shooting at each other. Poor Julie is trying so hard. She tells Dev he needs to talk to Mary and make her feel welcome. Julie says he must invite her to join them at Annihilazer and he mustn't take no for an answer.

In the Bistro Gavin has taken Michael's words to heart. While Steph tells him she doesn't want to hear it, Gavin follows her round the bar, explaining that the lies are going to stop, he wants to be totally honest and he really cares about her. The words clearly work because Steph stares at Gavin open mouthed before grabbing hold of him and giving him a full-on kiss, in full view of the assembled company. Katy can't believe what she's missed - she only nipped to the loo - while Gail and Michael watch on with indulgent smiles on their faces.

In the Rovers Audrey is trying to counsel Mary who is telling her all about the situation at Dev's. Mary complains about Julie being a disruptive influence but Audrey can see through the lines and tells Mary, in the words of Percy Sledge, when a man loves a woman she can do no wrong. In other words, she explains, if Mary keeps going on about Julie she's the one who is going to be the loser. Mary admits that the twins are everything to her and she doesn't know what she'd do if she was no longer a part of the family. As Audrey is telling Mary how much Dev values everything she's done for the twins he walks in and overhears her. He asks if he can join them and Audrey tactfully makes her excuses and leaves. Dev asks Mary if she'll go to Annihilator with them. "Annihilazer," corrects Mary, although she still says it's not her thing. Dev gently tries to explain that Julie may be over the top sometimes but she's just scared the kids won't like her. He adds that if Mary could help her to make a good impression it would mean a lot to him.

Luke's arrived at the Bistro for his meal with Maria and is absolutely furious when he hears what's happened with his sister and Gavin - who have been allowed to end their shift early, presumably to finish what they started behind the bar. He's all for going over to Steph's and sorting Gavin out but Maria tells him Steph's a grown woman and besides she doesn't want it to spoil their evening. But it seems their evening is over before it's even started. Just as they're sitting down Maria gets a call to tell her Liam's friend is projectile vomiting turkey dinosaurs and she has to go and fetch him home. Needless to say, on hearing this piece of news, Luke admits he wasn't feeling hungry anyway.

Tony is hanging around a backstreet in a dodgy area when a van draws up. It's being driven by the man who attacked Tracy in the shop earlier. Tony gets in and gives the man a piece of his mind for messing up their plans. Tracy wasn't supposed to get the better of him. Tony tells the man he's not finished with her, not by a long way because Tracy Barlow needs cutting down to size. Tony hands the man a wad of cash and tells him it will be the easiest money he's ever earned as he won't even have to see her.

Sharif's family have decided he's really losing the plot. He's sitting in the back garden in the dark, wrapped in a blanket, next to the chicken coop while he plays them a recording of sounds of the sea.

Gail and Michael are walking down the street arm in arm. Gail is eating some fish and chips and Michael keeps teasing her and playfully stealing her chips. As they pass the Nazirs' house they're sure they can hear the sound of the sea. Gail says if you close your eyes you could imagine you're on a beach. Sensing a wonderful opportunity, Michael tells Gail to do just that and imagine she's on a tropical beach with white sand and swaying palm trees. As she stands there with her eyes closed Michael kneels down in front of her and says it's the perfect place to propose. Michael tells Gail that even though she won't share her chips with him he'd like to share the rest of his life with her. "Well I …. I … I don't know," stammers Gail who has been totally taken by surprise.

"I'm sorry, I've got it wrong," cries Michael and runs off into the night before Gail can stop him.

Karen


Wednesday 14 January

It's breakfast time at the Platt's, there's a very obvious atmosphere, with Gail and Michael being polite, but restrained with each other. Michael confesses that he's hardly slept a wink. David guesses that they've had 'a domestic'.

It's the twins' birthday, and Julie is at Dev's, reminding them that after school they're going to the laser game centre. Just then Mary arrives with birthday cards and vouchers for the children, all full of cheery exuberance. "See you after school," she says, as she goes to leave, but they remind her that they're off to the laser game place. Dev hurriedly says that she can come too, but she declines.

Carla has just arrived back from LA and is wheeling her bag down the Street. Todd joins her and they walk together until they get to the pawn shop and find the door broken open and the place trashed inside. Just then Ken sticks his head in and is equally shocked. Carla remarks that Tracy hasn't had much luck lately. Tony arrives on the scene then, too. "Oh dear," he murmurs. Todd hands Ken his phone and suggests that he calls Tracy.

Steph and Gavin are having breakfast in the cafe. She flirts with him and suggests going back to her place, "For round 2?" They go off together, watched, with some amusement, by Gail and Audrey. Then Gail tells Audrey that she's upset Michael, dashed his hopes. She says that she does love Michael, but another marriage? That's a big step.

Tracy has arrived at the shop, trying to scrape off the red paint that's been thrown up the walls. Ken wants to ring the police but Tracy reminds him that much of her stuff is somewhat questionable so she doesn't want the police involved. Todd says she can say that all her paperwork, receipts, invoices etc. were in a bag that got stolen. Tracy is impressed. "I don't care what they say about you," she says to Todd, "you are not a complete waste of space!"

Gail is now in the salon, where Audrey is running the straighteners through her hair, and they're talking about the situation with Michael. David wants to know what's stopping her. Gail points out that she hasn't known Michael all that long in the grand scheme of things, and there are his health problems to consider. Audrey thinks she should thrown caution to the wind and marry the man, and David agrees. Gail says she'll go and tell him yes, and Audrey suggests making an occasion of it at the bistro, with nibbles and champagne.

Gavin and Steph arrive late at the bistro for their shift, and claim they bumped into each other outside. However, Leanne knows what they've been up to and says she wasn't born yesterday. She sends Gavin off to help chef, and tells Steph she's weird, after all Gavin's ex was in there yesterday claiming he's a two-timing cheat. "There's two sides to every story," says Steph.

In the Underworld office, Alya takes a call from someone who informs her that Carla has won a North-West Fashion trade award. Alya is sure that Carla will want to go to the presentation and collect it, however, when she gets off the phone Sally moans at her and says that Carla is not interested. Alya is sure she will be, it's a big deal. Sally then ticks her off for presuming that she can tell Carla what to do, especially as she's the most junior member of staff in the entire company.

Maria walks over to the garage to see Luke. She's sorry to hear that he's off to the bistro in a minute, she wanted to make up for last night, she had plans for him. "Give me two minutes," he says, pulling his phone from his pocket.

Michael is in the bistro talking to Gavin and wondering how he could have got it so wrong. Gavin reminds him that Gail hasn't actually said no yet. Just then Gail comes in, allegedly to borrow some cleaning fluid. She asks if he'll come to the bistro later for dinner with her. Then she goes off to see Nick out the back. Michel tells Gavin that he's sure he's about to get dumped.

Maria tell Luke that she thinks it's time Liam got to know him, as if he only goes to her flat when Liam isn't there it's as if she's doing something wrong.

Steph and Gavin are in the bistro discussing whether or not Gail is going to dump Michael, especially in his condition. Gavin tells her he hopes Gail doesn't dump him, but if she does he'll be there for him.

Carla gets back to the office. Sally can't wait to tell her that Alya thought Carla had made a big mistake and has now accepted the invitation to the awards ceremony. "What did you do that for?" asks Carla. "Sorry...I just thought....." Alya starts to say, only to be rudely interrupted by Sally who tells her she's not paid to think, and should do as she's told. Alya says she thought it would be great publicity for Underworld and good to get some acknowledgement. Sally continues to harp on about junior members of staff getting above their station. Carla, irritated, tells them both to leave her to it.

Gail, Nick, David, Audrey and Leanne are in the bistro, waiting for Michael, wondering where he is. Steph tells them Gavin got a text from Michael asking him to go and meet him, and sure enough, outside in the dark, Michael is talking to Gavin. Michael thinks he should just go home and pack and do a runner. Gavin urges him to at least hear what Gail has to say, and take it like a man.

Back in Tracy's shop, there's a clean-up operation going on, and she feels happier, thinking that when the insurance money comes through she'll be able to buy some decent stock. However, just then Tracy gets a phone call - apparently her last payment to them bounced so she's not covered! "I'm done," she says.

A terrified looking Michael arrives at the bistro. Gail tells him that he caught her unawares, she takes his hand. "Michael Rodwell, will you marry me?" she asks. Michael sobs. "Yes, I'd marry you tomorrow," he says. They then tell each other how much they love each other and share a kiss, to the cheers of the family.

Mary is in her camper van singing along to a pop song. "I'm going through changes...." she warbles, much to the amusement of Dev, Julie and the twins who are standing outside. She then sees them and opens the door, and the twins tell her they missed her today, and Julie suggests she has them for a few hours and has some quality time with them. The twins go into the van, but Mary stays outside and tells Dev and Julie she's not as green as she is cabbage looking, they don't have to manipulate her into spending time with the children.

Tony arrives at the shop and finds Tracy and Todd sitting on the floor. He offers to help her out, but Tracy says she'd rather see the place burn to the ground before she let him get his hands on it. He tells her she's cutting off her nose to spite her face, he could have Jason round first thing in the morning to do a complete refit and it wouldn't cost her a penny. Tracy considers this for a moment and then makes him an offer - she wants six grand. He's not happy about this, but she tells him he can take it or leave it. Eventually he agrees. They shake hands, and agree that it's going to be 50/50 but she will still be the boss, the one in charge. Tony goes off, and Todd turns to Tracy aghast. He can't believe she just did that. She tells him she needs the money - Tony might think he's won, but he hasn't. "Trust me," she says.

Back in the bistro, Nick is opening champagne and Michael tells Gavin it would be fantastic if he were standing at his side on his big day as his best man. Gavin looks stricken for a moment and then says of course he will. As Michael wanders back over to the others, Gavin puts down his glass and heads for the back door. Nick asks where he's going, and is told he's feeling rough, he has to go. David tells Gail that he doesn't know how he feels about Kylie right now, if she was to walk in would he give her a kiss or a slap? He doesn't know. Michael is chatting to Audrey but suddenly starts breathing rapidly and clutching his chest. He then keels over onto the floor! Gail shouts for someone to call an ambulance and rushes to his side. "Don't you dare leave me, Michael Rodwell, don't you dare!" she cries.

Anne Logan


Friday 16 January

A taxi arrives in the rain and Sinead is pleased to see it's Kirky and Auntie Beth - cutting it fine for work after being delayed at Heathrow. They plan to have a quick shower (note the irony - it's hosing down) and get over to the factory.

In the hospital, Michael wakes to find Gail sudokuing by his bed. There's been no word from Gavin though Gail says she's left messages. Michael grimaces in pain but it's just cramp.

The twins race off down the street but Mary, in her best child-wrangling Barbara Woodhouse mode, verbally drags them back to say goodbye to Dev, because nothing is more important. Dev's busy on the phone but Mary insists he break off to say goodbye to the twins. He's received a package from Mumbai which he holds over his head as he walks towards the shop.

In the Bistro, Leanne lays down the law on the refurbishment. Nobody colourblind or colour-tasteless is going to make the decisions. And that means Nick. Nick has sent Gavin a message to say he can have the day off to be with Michael but nobody's heard from him. Nick suggests he might answer a message from Steph.

Beth and Kirk sneak into the factory and Sinead tells them Carla hasn't been out of the office since 9.30 so they can say that's when they arrived. Beth asked if they missed owt. This is followed by three lovely lines of dialogue:
Sally: Well, there was a bit of a hoo-ha.
Sinead: Hardly a hoo-ha.
Beth: Whose hoo-ha?

It seems Sally's talking about the awards dinner. Julie chips in that Carla's probably forgotten all about it. Just to prove her wrong, Carla pops her head out and asks Alya about a client meeting in Knutsford (I must keep my eye out for her!): "Just checking it's not been cancelled or relocated or turned into some sort of jamboree without my knowledge or consent." Alya confirms it hasn't.

Audrey arrives at the hospital to find Michael is being discharged. But he and Gail are going to wait on the day ward to see the doctor. Michael's anxious because he hasn't heard from Gavin and Audrey offers to pop round and see him.

In the garage, Kevin and Tyrone pooh-pooh Luke's choice of a gift for Liam - a huge packet of sweets. During the conversation, Kevin reveals that he went to Singles Night at the Flying Horse last night, without any luck.

Beth and Kirk dash across the street to spend their lunchtime on honeymoon, almost getting mowed down by a car when they stop to snog in the middle of the cobbles.

Leanne's looking at tile samples for the Bistro refurb when Audrey comes in wanting to know whether anyone has a postcode for Michael's address. She's been driving round trying to find it and wants to put the postcode into the Satnav to see whether that helps. (Personally, I always find typing in the address just as useful!) Steph knows exactly where he lives and gets permission to go and check on Gavin.

Julie, Sally and Sinead have lunch in the cafe and Roy overhears them talking about Carla refusing to attend the awards function. Yasmeen comes in and breaks the news to Roy that he's been assigned to work for the community centre as part of his community service. Anna is clearly disappointed to find he won't be painting railings in the rain. "I suppose she'd rather I had you breaking stones in the yard for a rockery," Yasmeen tells Roy.

In the pub, Carla tells Michelle that during her last few days in California she couldn't wait to get back to Weatherfield. Liz is due back today and Tony's busy working through the list of tasks she set him before leaving. Clearly a deadline-driven bloke. Michelle tells Carla she's seeing Hamish tonight and Carla looks forward to grilling him and asks whether Steve knows. Michelle says he does and he's not bothered.

Steph knocks on the door of Gavin's flat and shouts through the letterbox but there's no reply. She sees a shadow and is sure there's someone in but Gavin does not answer the door. She shouts that he'll have to tunnel out to avoid her because she's going nowhere. We see a glum Gavin sitting hidden from her sight.

Beth and Kirk are late back to work.

Steph's sitting on the floor outside Gavin's door. "Incoming text!" she shouts as she pushes Send on her phone. Gavin opens the door.

In the cafe, Roy tells Carla he was concerned to hear she was refusing a business accolade. Carla tells him he shouldn't listen to gossip and dismisses the award as unimportant. "You degrade the award for others by taking this attitude," he scolds.

Steph tells Gavin about Michael but he won't listen. She knows he's upset about something. "Is it me you're avoiding?" She gets the idea that he's hooked up with his ex again and that's why he didn't want to let her into the flat. She barges into the bedroom and discovers no ex but it looks as if Gavin is packing to leave.

In the shop, Dev shows Mary what was in his packet - letters and drawings from a football team he sponsors in Mumbai. Mary is supportively admiring. But when Julie comes in and is shown the stuff she tells Dev how wonderful he is and kisses him warmly. Mary's expression is inscrutable.

Beth and Kirk are on the mat in Carla's office. She seems to be telling them off. Sally, obviously keen to know exactly what's happening, opens the door and asks if Carla wants coffee. When Carla says No, Sally has to be told to go and to shut the door behind her. Carla tells our honeymooners that she missed the wedding so they're getting a belated present - two get-out-of-jail-free cards and they've both just used them. Beth's confirms that Carla won't be docking their wages. Kirk is so pleased he tells Carla he hopes on day she finds a man who isn't a drunk or . . . he doesn't have time to finish before Carla and Beth shut him up and get him out of there. Alya comes in to apologise. Carla asks her what she's learnt. Alya's learned not to make decisions for Carla and to own up when she's made a mistake. Carla says she should also have learned not to let gossip and criticism get under her skin. She points out how cowed Alya has become. Then she gets up and goes out to the factory floor, asking how many of them want to come with her to the Awards. She tells Alya to get the numbers and sort the transport.

The garage crew are in the pub with Luke refusing to drink alcohol because he's going bowling with Maria and Liam later on. He's changed the gift for Liam to what looks suspiciously spherical. Kevin and Tyrone laugh and say a boy can never have too many footballs.

Michelle's on the phone to Hamish. Tony, fixing a bar stool, listens. He then tells her he thinks it's mistake to invite Hamish to the pub when Steve is going to be there. He says he's off to Barlows' Buys and lets Michelle in on the secret that he's bought into the business without Liz knowing. "You'd better add 'build a dog house' to that list," Michelle says.

Gavin tells Steph he is the last thing Michael needs. He says Steph is gorgeous, smart and funny and the most amazing girl he's ever met, but she should stay away from him. He's lied to her. Steph demands to know one lie he's told her and he says she should look at his passport. She does and he draws her attention to the name in it: Andrew Carver. "Are you a criminal?" she asks. Who else would have a false passport? "It's not the passport that's false, it's me," he says.

The doctor takes Gail and Michael into a consulting room and gets them to sit down. "I am afraid these are not quite the results I was hoping I would be delivering," she says. Oh.

More in the second episode, coming to an in-box near you quite soon.

Margaret Carr

Hello. We are a little behind with updates at present and so over to Weatherfield. This episode was written by Debbie Oates and directed by Duncan Foster. Copyright remains the property of ITV Studios.

We open in a medical consulting room where a doctor is telling Michael and Gail that his heart is in poor condition and drugs are no longer the answer. Michael is to be referred for open heart surgery as the obstruction has grown and is now a serious risk. The doctor seeks to re-assure him and in any event he will be a priority case and the wait should not be more than a couple of weeks. He has to take it easy, a minimum of stress and excitement and a maximum of rest. Michael looks worried.

Meanwhile "not Gavin" is telling Steph about how Gavin hated his father. And his recent history with women. Originally "not Gavin" had not intended it to be anything other than short term - merely a few pints and then to disappear, but he had been drawn in and now the text about Michael collapsing meant that he just needed to disappear. "not Gavin" has to get away. He has wanted to tell Steph the truth for weeks - but of course he hasn't.

Outside the Rovers Ty is giving Luke advice on how to bond with little Liam. And then Maria and Liam emerge. Luke has bought him a football - but Liam is not impressed.

Ty goes to talk to Roy. Fiz has reminded Ty that a year has passed - but as Roy points out time is not a loop - things do not repeat. It is a progression and should be regarded as such. Ty says that it was bound to be on Roy's mind - he replies that it never leaves his thoughts. [I sympathise - as I write this it is 2 years to the day since my daughter died; I have not forgotten; many things, including her visit to the Street often remind me - she followed the Street as long as she could].

In the Rovers Alya, Sal, Beth and Kirk are putting the finishing touches to the works outing to the awards ceremony. They fall to discussing the cost of bar drinks and in the end Michelle (to stop the squabbles) agrees to text Carla to see if it is a free bar. Meanwhile Tony is on the phone - he will see Liz in an hour when she arrives and Michelle tells him to tell Liz about the deals with Tracy before she does!

Steph is confused. Should she be pleased "not Gavin" is indeed not Gavin because he is untrustworthy - but then she does not know about him either really - as he has been lying solidly. He seeks to reassure her that he has been unable to back out. Finally she looks at his passport - Andrew, Andy he says - has to come clean. Steph's phone keeps going - Leanne wants to know where she is.

Michael finally has seen that it is good news - it will be fixed properly and for a good number of years. Audrey arrives to explain that she cannot find Gavin's flat so Steph has gone to look for him. Steph has meanwhile told Leanne that she has been stuck in traffic. She asks Andy about the girlfriend real Gavin stole. It was a work colleague of Andy's. He denies regularly seeing people he works with - and he seeks to confirm that this time he is not lying. But she does not know when he is lying and when not. She tells him to unpack and go and speak to Michael and then they can talk. As she goes she says he is so not an Andrew.

Back at Gail's she and R'Audrey are talking about open heart surgery - they have to get through it. David suggests filming it and adding it on to the end of wedding video so that they can test if people really watched it. Michael laughs. Gail suggests that even laughing is off limits! Michael's phone goes - it is Gavin and Michael tells him to come round - and Michael downplays how serious it is.

Steph arrives at the Bistro and gets a tongue lashing from Leanne - who then apologises as she thinks Gavin is ill - but Steph looks shamefaced and Leanne knows she cannot lie! Audrey comes into the Bistro and updates Steph on the news from the hospital about how serious it is. Michael cannot have any shock. Steph panics and hides in the store room.

After the break Liz returns and snogs Tony. They discuss Steve.

The factory staff continue to discuss the outing. Michelle reports from Carla - free bar, free food and a band. Immediately it is clear they nee a minibus as all will be going for the night out. Hamish arrives for his date with Michelle, she asks Liz if she can swan off and go on her date. Steve is either asleep or asleep. Liz is going to make an appointment at the doctors.

Roy has found out about his community service and it telling Ty. {In contravention of all normal arrangements} Roy will do his community service in the new community centre next door. {Normally it is done at a distance from normal residence in a way which seeks to ensure no embarrassment in front of work colleagues and co-residents}. He is thinking of complaining that the service is too lenient for the crime committed. Carla appears and when Roy says he has left overs to eat she tells him to stick the kettle on. Carla tells Roy that he should do nothing to make this worse for himself - she knows he will have been punishing himself since the original event and that is more torture than any court will hand out. Roy says that the punishment should fit the crime. Roy says she was stressed last year as well - and won an award. Carla says she simply lost a drunk she foolishly married and murdering brother. Roy lost beautiful Hayley. He needs to do his community service and get on with the rest of his life states Carla authoritatively. She also admits she is going to collect her award - and then tells him to eat something.

Steph is desperately trying to get hold of Gavandy before he spills the beans.

Michael coaches David and Gail on how to be careful with "Gavin", who arrives and Gail puts the kettle on.

Tony's brownie points are awarded as all of the jobs are done. Tony has added to the list "Tony has gone into business with Tracy Barlow". Liz wants permission to say "I told you so" when it all goes breasts pointing skywards. He adds it to the list on the other side of the paper. She laughs.

Luke and Liam are playing football when Luke kicks it and it goes into the road chased by Liam. The offer of a coffee is withdrawn for Luke's stupidity.

Steph accompanies Nick to the Platt household where Michael is about to tell "Gavin" and vice versa. Steph and Nick burst in. Steph wants to know what they were talking about. Steph asks if everything is OK and then tells "Gavin" in coded words that he must not say anything. Michael thinks they are up to something. She drags "Gavin" outside and fills him in on how serious it is. Michael follows them outside and he knows what it is - Steph's pregnant. And to diffuse the issue she agrees. So "Gavin" gives in and goes along with the story. Michael goes indoors and the pair argue over the lies. They will find something to explain it.

Roll closing shot, Steph looking well uneasy and "Gavin" looking completely spooked.

Have we learned anything tonight?

a) It is less shocking to be pregnant than be a fake son
b) The factory girls will go anywhere for free food and drink and a band
c) Steve likes sleeping (who can blame him - if asleep you cannot do any harm)
d) Luke needs his brains seeing to - he should know better than wildly kicking a ball in the Street at his age.
e) And I look forward to the continuing care and friendship between Roy and Carla - based on their mutual love of Hayley but somehow now an understanding of what drives the other ... it is this aspect of character that other soaps so rarely grasp; long may it continue.

I will return next week.
Richard


Monday 19 January

Written by Jan McVerry Directed by John Anderson

Liz tells Steve she's made him a doctor's appointment for 5:15 and offers to go with him. She's a bit surprised when he agrees.

The Underworld punters are excited about the awards dinner tonight and are discussing wardrobe options outside the factory this morning. Chesney is looking forward to having the house to himself since Joseph is with Katy and Craig will also be out. He also wants to treat Sinead to a makeover but she's adamant she will get done up by her mate for free. Beth shows Tracy their honeymoon snaps with Kirk looking over their shoulder. Beth tells Tracy about the awards ceremony at a posh country hotel. Turns out it's the same one she and Rob were trying to book for their wedding. Tracy looks a bit put out that they're all going to have a great evening but pretends to be pleased for them anyway. Everyone is going to work through lunch so they can leave early to get ready. Alya is organizing the bus and the lunchtime sandwiches. Tracy decides for some odd reason to suck up to Carla and congratulates her on the award. Carla looks taken aback. As you would.

Faye has made Gary a good luck card. He and Anna are on their way to court for Gary's sentencing for the breakup. Izzy has decided to go as well, to support Jake's dad.

Alya has been at Streetcars because there's a problem with the driver of the mini bus. He's gone on holiday. Andrea informs Steve who snaps up the chance at getting out of the doctor's appointment and volunteers to do it instead. Gary spots Alya and comes over. Alya tells him she might ditch the awards to be with him today but he insists she go with to the ceremony.

In the factory, Julie is passing around sandwiches and it sounds like Roy has shut the cafe for some reason. Beth is topping up drink in her coffee cup with a dollop of vodka, intent on starting the party early. Even though several of them see her, nobody tells in spite of her operating a machine under the influence, not even Sally. Carla warns them to be on time, bus leaves at 5. Sally chivvies them back to work but first, Beth asks Carla if Tracy can join them, since Izzy is not going after all. After all, Tracy used to work at Underworld and it will cheer her up. Carla objects but in the end, she allows it, against her better judgement, obviously.

Michael sees Steph and "Gavin" on the street. They're looking for somewhere to eat. The Bistro and cafe are both closed. He starts talking about the baby bump, not realizing that Luke is just coming out of the Kabin and hears it all. Needless to say, he's not best pleased to find out his sister is pregnant. "Gavin" urges Michael to keep it quiet.

Beth has called Tracy to tell her she can come with them. Tracy initially reluctant but is talked into it fairly easily.

Down the street, in front of Victoria Court, Hamish and Michelle have come back from wherever it was they were. She's going to the awards do as well and is going to get ready. They have a few sweet words and a kiss just as Steve comes down the street.

Tracy has Ken pick up Amy from school later so she can work out a business plan for a meeting and after she hangs up, she charges into the salon!

Steph answers the door buzzer, assuming it's "Gavin" (Andy, remember? I don't want to keep switching or it'll confuse you all). Turns out it's Luke who rages at her for getting pregnant. She can't tell him the truth and he charges out again in, insisting that she can be the one to tell their parents.

Beth is home half way ready and is dancing around the room in her very high heels, still knocking back the voddy. Kirk has ironed his shirt and runs upstairs. Beth continues to sing and dance drunkenly until she bumps into the sofa and turns her ankle.

Roy is scrubbing shelves in the community centre, the reason he's had the cafe closed. )Anna has gone to court) Carla comes in to see him. He compliments her on her appearance (curled hair, black leather (?) jacket with sequins on it, tight trousers). Yasmeen comes in to scold her for distracting her community servant. Carla leaves. Yasmeen declares Carla to be a cold fish. Roy defends her as a lot nicer than she appears. "She disguises it well" Yasmeen snips.

Beth is still necking vodka, is all dressed and made up and has ice on her ankle. She insists she'll be at the bus on time. Kirk leaves and promises to make them wait.

Over in front of the factory, everyone admires each other. Sinead is very glam thanks to her friend. Sally would love to have a mate like that! Julie is wearing a lovely chiffony skirt and Sean is in a tux. Alya has a lovely Indian tunic on with lots of glitz on it. Michelle is shocked and dismayed to discover that Steve is behind the wheel. Carla tells her she didn't know until Steve turned up. Michelle gets in the bus and sits at the back, as far away from Steve as she can. Everyone wants them to wait for Beth. Kirk tries to call but it turns out he's got her phone. Steve doesn't take a call from his mother (about the appointment, no doubt) and starts up the car to leave. They have a long way to go and a schedule to keep. He pulls away and drives off, leaving Beth, who's just limped out of the house, standing there gawping in dismay.

After the break, we're in a quiet pub. Liz is angry at Steve. She knows darn well Steve hasn't forgotten. Andrea overhears and tells them that Steve is driving the mini-bus.

Alya is talking to Gary. He's had his sentence, community service. Kirk wants Steve to pull over and let him out so he can take a taxi back to get Beth but that's not an option. Everyone chats and maybe, can they have a sing song to pass the time? Um. not really. (I'm waiting for a round of 99 bottles of beer on the wall and if Beth had been there, I'm sure that would have topped the charts!)

Chesney comes home from work and is not happy at all to see Beth there. So much for having the house to himself, peace and quiet. Beth is looking for her phone so she can call Kirk and call him out.

Roy is finishing up his cleaning. Yasmeen praises his skills. She tells him to go home and take a break before setting up for the evening class.

Katy and Faye are playing with Joseph. We find out that Gary's community service is 240 hours. Someone's at the door and Anna discovers that it's Roy. He has come to find out what happened at court and is pleased to see Gary there, not in prison. Gary admits it should have been harsher. Anna is tight lipped. Roy suggests that it's in the past now and they could draw a line under it all. Anna is not inclined. Gary seems to think they should make peace and hopes they will but she coldly insists that she's keeping all her energy for her family. Roy understands and leaves.

We're on the road now and there is a singsong ongoing though not the beer song. A mobile rings and it turns out that Kirk has Beth's phone (she rang it trying to find it). A sports car pulls out of a side road, cutting off the bus. Steve hollers out the window but the driver of the car just gives him a cheeky grin. He nearly rear ends another car on the road because he's wasn't paying attention but all is ok.

In the pub Steph is having a glass of wine. Luke comes over and he comes over. "Gavin" says he's in it with Steph and they're together on this. Luke mumbles and walks away, disgusted. Steph wonders if she should tell him the truth because she's a rubbish liar. Gavin/Andy thinks it's better to wait until after Michael's operation. They agree they don't really know what to do but "Gavin" does tell her that he would stand by her if she actually was pregnant.

Now the party goers are playing a story game where each phrase or sentence starts alternately with "Fortunately" and "Unfortunately". Steve declines to join in, spotting the sports car behind him again. He keeps an eye in the rear view mirrors as the game continues. The sports car speeds up behind them and is sounding it's horn. They seem to be trying to get round the bus (they're now on a smaller country road). The horn is loud, Beth's phone keeps ringing and everyone is talking, it's all an atmosphere of confusion as Steve keeps an eye on the "boy racer" showing off behind him. The car zips out around the bus and suddenly brakes. Steve hollers and swerves so as not to plow into the other car which then speeds up again and drives off. The bus goes off the road, bounces off a tree and then flips over a couple of times, sliding down an incline (no guard rail!) towards a cliff side of a quarry.

Oh good heavens!!!!!!

Tvor

Written by Joe Turner and directed by John Anderson

The scene opens on the minibus, lying on its side at the top of a cliff. The only sound comes from an owl hooting in the still night air. The camera pans in and in the light from a full moon we see through the windows. We can see a few bodies but nobody is moving. Suddenly we spot Steve's face through the broken windscreen. He opens his eyes and then starts to move; as he does so we see him looking at everyone lying still and lifeless where they've landed in the crash.

Meanwhile in Coronation Street those who have been left behind are making the most of their evening in the Rovers. Beth totters in with Chesney in tow and puts some music on the jukebox then Jason arrives with Gary, ready to celebrate the result of his court case.

We return to the scene of the crash where Steve is slowly pulling himself out of the window and on to the side of the bus. It creaks ominously and he peers over the edge and at the long drop below. He crawls forwards gingerly, looking down on the lifeless bodies through the windows as he goes. As the creaking continues we notice Julie open her eyes. She gasps and looks panicked as she realises what's happened.

Back in the Rovers they're lining up the drinks and Eileen is having fun winding up Dev about Julie and Mary. Jason joins in and teases him about having two women on the go. Dev protests his innocence as he tells them Mary is just his housekeeper.

Julie is now fully conscious. She's lying next to Sean and manages to wake him. He also starts to panic but he's able to move and Julie tells him he has to help her to get out

In the Rovers Chesney's talking to Beth about taking Sinead away on holiday but Beth's all for them going away as a family, her and Kirky, Sinead and Ches. Chesney looks doubtful at the prospect. Jason tells Gary that as the girls are out having a good time they're going into town to celebrate and, as Gary is skint, Jason is paying.

Back at the crash Julie and Sean finally manage to open the back doors and climb out of minibus, still lying on its side and creaking. They stumble forward and find Steve sitting nearby. He seems in total shock. Julie asks if he's called for help. Wordlessly he hands her his phone and Julie calls the emergency services. The signal's bad but she manages to speak to someone. They need to know where they are but, when Julie urgently asks Steve to tell her, he doesn't reply and before she can stop him, he stands up and wanders off into the night.

In Coronation Street Roy is sweeping up outside the community centre when Jason and Gary wander past. They're in good spirits and Jason comments it's weird that Gary and Roy have both got community service and says Roy can sweep his yard when he's finished. Roy takes him seriously and Jason has to explain it was just a joke.

More people are starting to wake up on the bus. Kirk calls out to Sinead but she's not responding. Tracy comes to and says she feels as though she'd been run over by a bus. Then Maddie wakes up - it sounds as though she's the type to be good in a crisis. Alya is also coming round, followed by Michelle. Alya appears to have a nasty head wound. Maddie helps to unstrap Kirk who tries to get to Sinead. She then tries to wake Sally. The whole minibus suddenly lurches.

Yasmeen comes outside and tries to get Roy to stop work. She tells him he didn't do anything wrong. Roy replies that others may not agree with her. Yasmeen hands Roy his bag and insists he goes home.

In the Rovers Dev is holding court about how he was once nominated for the best small retailer of grocery and fresh produce for the Weatherfield Retailers' Association. Eileen says she's never been nominated for anything. Chesney tells them he once got a book token for coming third in a poetry reading contest at school. Then Tim and Sophie arrive. He's put out that he's missed a night out with Jason and Gary but Sophie says they can have a nice time together. Tim pulls a face - it doesn't sound like his idea of a fun evening.

Michelle has managed to get out of the minibus but where's Steve? Sean and Julie tell her he's wandered off and they think he's in shock. Julie is still trying to speak to the emergency services. Michelle is in a state and goes heading off in pursuit of Steve despite Julie desperately shouting at her not to wander off. Seeing that Sean is bleeding, Julie starts to rip up her dress to make a bandage.

Inside the bus Sally makes a noise but she hasn't woken up properly and Alya says she feels dizzy. Maddie has taken charge. She tells Sally that as soon as she and Tracy have got Alya off the bus she'll come back for her. Kirk still can't rouse Sinead. There's more creaking and the minibus shifts even closer to the edge of the cliff. Maddie shouts that they need to get everyone out, right now.

Julie is still desperately trying to talk to the emergency services. People are still trapped and the bus is about to slip over the edge she tells them but the signal keeps cutting out. Finally they get Alya out and Julie tears off another strip of her dress to put on her head wound. Maddie refuses to come out, she must rescue Sally so Julie bravely goes in to help. Maddie is grateful but tells a nervous Julie she doesn't need to keep repeating everything she says and instructs her to get Kirk out while she helps Sally. Kirk says he won't leave without Sinead.

Back in the Rovers they're having a high old time with their own awards ceremony. Dev announces Eileen as the winner of "The Sexiest Voice at Directing Taxis in the Weatherfield District" amid much whooping and cheering.

Meanwhile the bus gives another ominous jolt. Maddie finally wakes Sally with a slap on the face but Sinead still isn't responding. They have no choice but to drag her out, despite the risk of the injuries she may have.

Michelle is walking through trees, desperately calling out Steve's name.

The others are now assembled out on the grass, nursing their injuries. They're not sure where Steve is - someone says they think he wandered off - and how about Carla? Julie is still on the phone saying they need help - now! The camera shows us Carla's unconscious face, wedged between two seats on the bus.

In the Rovers it's Tim's turn to receive his award for Weatherfield's best window cleaner amid more cheering. Beth, who's won best knicker-stitcher, drunkenly wonders whether Carla's mentioned her in her acceptance speech. It prompts Ches to try ringing Sinead. When she doesn't answer her phone Beth tells him she's probably too busy enjoying herself.

Back at the bus Julie's in danger of running out of dress material as she continues to tears pieces off for makeshift bandages. They work out that everyone is accounted for apart from Steve, Michelle and Carla. Sally decides they should go to look for them but Tracy wanders off towards the bus. Julie calls her back - it's too dangerous but Tracy keeps walking.

Michelle, stumbling through the trees, finally spots Steve. He's sitting on the ground but doesn't speak, despite Michelle shaking him and calling his name.

The others finally work out that Carla didn't wander off with Steve and so she must still be on the bus. By now Tracy has reached the edge of the cliff. She peers over and then looks at the bus where she sees Carla's face through the windscreen. Carla's eyes flicker. She opens them and sees Tracy. "Tracy, help me!" she begs.

Karen


Wednesday 21 January

Carla is gasping at Tracy through the glass, as the bus teeters on the edge of the slope. Julie and Sean rush up asking if Tracy has seen Mrs. Connor. "Is she in there?" they ask. Tracy hesitates as the bus rocks, seeming to be struggling with a decision. Then she makes up her mind. "I'm going to go in there and get her," she says, and heads back to the doors.

Meanwhile, Steve is still sitting and staring. Michelle tries to get through to him. "Did you hit your head?" she asks, then implores him to get up. Steve carries on sitting and staring in silence.

Sinead lies unconscious as Kirk asks Alya why she won't wake up. Alya doesn't know.

Tracy picks her way gingerly down through the bus as it creaks alarmingly and Carla, who is trapped, moans in pain. Her leg is injured. The sound of ambulance sirens can be heard in the distance. Tracy reaches Carla and grabs her hands, telling her to brace herself, it's going to hurt. Then she gives an almighty tug and pulls Carla free, as Carla howls in pain.

Michelle is still trying to get Steve to move. She tells him he's cold, he needs to see a doctor. Steve says he can't. Then he tells her he tried to stop it, but he couldn't, he just couldn't. "Why wasn't it me?" he asks. Michelle is puzzled, and he goes on to talk about Lloyd having a heart attack, and Tina dying. "Why do these thing happen?" he asks, sobbing. "We need to go back," says Michelle, cradling his head.

Tracy is still trying to get Carla out of the bus, but progress is slow as Carla is in so much pain. With the help of Sean, Maddie and Julie they eventually manage to get her clear, but she passes out on the grass. Tracy however, finds that her foot is caught up in a seat belt and can't get out as the bus rocks and creaks and starts to slide downwards. At the very last moment, as it tips over the edge into free fall, Tracy's boot comes off and she leaps out onto the grass, safe. The bus flies through the air and somersaults to a crumpled mess at the bottom.

Back in the Rovers, the evening is progressing as usual, as Beth downs a pint and tells Dev she's sure Cruella (aka Carla) is lording it over everybody. Just then Chesney's phone rings but he's in the gents so Beth answers it. It's Kirk, and she starts to reprimand him for leaving her behind, saying she hopes he's having a rubbish time. Then her tone changes. "What do you mean you're in an ambulance?" she asks, and the pub regulars all prick up their ears to listen. Tim, Sophie, Kal and Dev all start trying to call their loved ones, but no one is picking up. Chesney wanders out of the gents, and Beth tells him that Sinead is on her way to hospital, there's been a crash.

Michelle is still cuddling Steve as the police arrive, shining torches through the branches. She persuades him to stand up and go back. As they step out of the bushes a policewoman tells him they'd like a word.

Tracy and Carla are in the ambulance on their way to hospital. A shivering Tracy is on the phone to Ken telling him she's fine. Carla starts to come round. She tells Tracy she saved her life. "I know," says Tracy, "you owe me big time, I lost one of my boots." Carla says she'll buy her a new pair, which seems to please Tracy. "Thank you," whispers Carla, and reaches for Tracy's hand.

Back in the pub, the regulars have decided they're going to the hospital. Chesney says he'll drive, but he's been drinking so Dev sorts out some taxis. At Rita's suggestion, Kal tries to ring Gary but Tim finds Gary's phone left in the gents. Tim then tries to ring Jason, but he's not answering his phone.

Sinead is wheeled into the hospital on a trolley with a head support to keep her still. Kirk wants to stay with her but a nurse says he needs to get his hand looked at.

In the back room of the Rovers, Liz is trying to phone Steve. His phone is engaged and she thinks that might be a good sign, but Tony tells her that Julie has Steve's phone, it was taken from him when he walked away. "He walked away?" Liz is incredulous. She wants to know if the crash was Steve's fault, but Tony doesn't know. Just then Michelle calls. She tells Liz that they're both OK, just shaken up. Liz wants to go to the hospital but Michelle tells her there's no need, they'll be home soon anyway. Amy wanders into the room, wanting to know what's going on. Liz explains that there's been a bit of an accident but Steve and Michelle are OK. Tony finishes off the call with Michelle, asking if Tracy is OK. Michelle says she is, he can tell Amy her mum is OK, and a bit of a hero. As Michelle hangs up, Steve suddenly lurches forward, breathing rapidly and clutching his chest.

Rita and Norris are left in the bar, Tony comes out from the back as Kevin walks in, wanting to know what's happened. "There's been an accident," says Norris.

Chesney and Beth are at the desk at the hospital, enquiring about Sinead. Kal comes up and starts to ask about Alya, and they are soon joined by Tim, Sophie and Dev, all desperate for news. Just then Steve and Michelle limp into view and are instantly bombarded by questions from the Corrie residents. Michelle tells them to back off, Steve is shaken up himself and needs to see a doctor. She tells Dev that Julie is ok, she doesn't know about the others.

Meanwhile, a frightened Sinead is being questioned by a doctor about the level of pain in her back. On a scale of 1 - 10 Sinead reckons it's about 7 or 8.

Beth spots Kirk and rushes up to him and gives him a hug. His arm is bandaged and he tells her to be careful. Chesney finds Sinead and goes to her side. He tells her he loves her, he thought he'd lost her. "And here you are, in one piece," he says. Sinead doesn't smile.

Alya is telling her father that she needs a hug as a medic plucks shards of glass out of her head. She asks Kal if he's seen Gary, but he doesn't answer.

Sally is telling Maddie that sometimes things like this hit later - delayed shock. They head out to the waiting area to be greeted with hugs by Tim and Sophie. Kevin has come along too, much to Sally's surprise.

Julie finds Dev in the waiting area and breaks down, sobbing.

Steve is still somewhat dazed, and tells Michelle there's something wrong with him - he's seen his GP and has been told he's suffering from depression. He weeps as they talk. She tells him he didn't have to push her away, but he says he didn't know what to do. She reckons it all makes sense now - he's ill. She gives him a hug and tells him she'll help him get better, she loves him.

The doctor tells Kirk, Chesney and Beth that they won't know the extent of Sinead's spinal injuries until they have MRI and CT scans. She goes off to make arrangements. When they're alone, Sinead clutches Chesney's hand. "Ches," she says, "I can't feel my legs!"

Anne Logan


Friday 23 January

Good afternoon (or evening or morning) and welcome to the aftermath.

At the hospital, Beth, Chesney, Kirk and Craig sit and worry over Sinead, who is lying flat in the bed, neck and head blocks still in place, blood on the bridge of her nose.

It's breakfast time at the pub. Amy is puzzled by the mood of the adults. The car which caused the crash has been found abandoned on the Wirral. Michelle has made Steve an appointment at the doctor's later on. In the meantime she wants him to get some sleep. Liz tries to ask discreetly whether Steve and Michelle are . . . er. . . Why, yes they are, Michelle answers, her arm around him.

Eileen's really angry with Steve. Todd tries to add fuel to her fire. Todd reiterates that when push comes to shove, it's Tracy Barlow you can rely on. A few moments later, Sean is weeping. Eileen hugs him. I'm not sure which worries him more - that he's not heard from Billy or that the crash isn't on page one of the Gazette. Maybe both of those and being in a bus crash. Eileen thinks maybe the crash was a warning to Sean to grab happiness when he can.

Ken's on the phone to someone, promising more toast and another cuppa, and would she like some soldiers with her egg? How about some orange juice? The connection is cut so he shouts upstairs to Tracy instead.

Michael has been shopping for baby grows and a T-shirt reading "World's best Grandad." David thinks it's all a bit previous. After all, the baby is barely more than a twinkle in Gavin's eye and the bed's probably still warm. Michael ignores him and is very sympathetic about him having to get up in the night because Lily is teething. David mutters that Michael can take over tonight for a bit of practice. He thinks about Kylie. "Why would she abandon us? Why would she do it?" He seems to have forgotten shoving her out of the door and telling her never to return.

Tracy's come downstairs and it's clear that Ken is her biggest fan - for today at least. She's another who is disappointed the crash isn't on page one - that's gone to some old biddy who won the lottery. Ken's got the sofa ready for her but she says she's going to work. "Tracy, you astonish me!" he says.

The doctor has been to see Sinead and she has to have surgery for a burst fracture of a vertebra. She's scared. Kirk's mainly worried about having too much of the hand gel on his hands. Craig tells him he can use it on his hair.

Sean must have gone for a nap because Eileen tiptoes about the house and picks up his phone, copies a number from it and calls Billy, asking him if he's seen page two of the Gazette.

Steph and Gavin walk towards Gail's house, deciding how to tell Michael he's not going to be a Grandad just yet. They chicken out just as they get to the door and decide to tell him after work.

A taxi pulls up and out get Gary and Todd, just back from their night out. Tracy sees them and they give her a bit of cheek, though Gary's quite confused when she asks after Alya and he says Alya is fine. Eva asks where they've been and whether they've heard the news.

In the community centre, Yasmeen hears the good news that Alya will be out of hospital tomorrow. Roy's ready and willing to carry on with his community service. Yasmeen asks him to first make sure the racks are filled with plenty of leaflets. Twenty seconds later, that job is done. OK. Now could he please put out the chairs for the first aid class later on. Eight, or nine just in case. Done. Er... could he make her a cup of coffee, white, no sugar?

David checks the bank account and discovers Kylie used her card at Freshco yesterday. She's still local. Declining to notice the word "yesterday" David leaps up and heads for Freshco, asking Michael to take care of Lily in the meantime.

Carla arrives at Barlow's Buys. She's on crutches and she and Tracy exchange some awkward banter. "Anyone but you, eh, Trace?" comments Carla. Tracy points out she's still miffed about her boots. Carla thanks her for what she did.

At the hospital, everyone but Kirk seems to be muttering nasty things about Steve. Kirk protests that the crash wasn't Steve's fault but the others point out that Steve still just sat on a rock in tears instead of helping. Beth weeps at the unfairness of Sinead being injured.

Carla's hobbled her way to the pub and is discussing Steve's depression with Michelle. Carla thinks it's all a bit convenient crying depression now but Michelle has realised she's been missing the signs for months. Carla's annoyed that Michelle was with Steve instead of rescuing her but Michelle says she thought Carla was already out of the minibus. "Michelle, he messed up over and over again. He let us all down last night. Maybe if he's that ill he shouldn't have been driving last night at all!" Even worse, she didn't get to pick up her award.

Back at the community centre, Yasmeen has Roy reading out crossword clues. It's no good. She didn't sign up to have a personal butler. She feels as if she's colluding in a charade and Roy agrees. But he has a suggestion.

David's back. Freshco wouldn't let him see the CCTV of Kylie. Gavin and Steph arrive and break the news to Michael that he's not going to be a Grandad after all, which is a shame because he's wearing the T-shirt.

Eileen and Sean are in the pub with Sophie and Maddie. Sally's at home in bed with Tim running round after her. They discuss Julie, who is recovering at home, and discuss the sight of her ripping up her petticoats for bandages. Maddie thinks Steve is to blame for the crash but Sean says he was provoked. Carla's leaving and she stops by their booth to tell Sean and Maddie to take the week off to recover properly.

Hamish arrives to pick up Michelle and realises she won't be coming with him - now or ever. Steve and Michelle are off to Steve's appointment with the doctor.

At the hospital, Gary arrives to sit beside Alya. He kisses her.

Roy's busy with some kind of research at the community centre. He tells Yasmeen he's outlining three courses - food hygiene, basic British cuisine and puddings for beginners. Yasmeen says that when he's finished she'll just pick one of them. She suggests he clock off now. It's time for the first aid course.

At the hospital, everyone tells Sinead not to worry about the op. Chesney reassures her that Joseph is with Katy. And she's wheeled off to have her operation.

The end.
More in the second episode.
Margaret Carr

Good day, welcome to another update from Weatherfield. This is Series 56 episode 17 or in absolute terms it is episode 8561. It was written by Mark Wadlow, the director was John Anderson and copyright remains the property of ITV and as usual many thanks to them.

We open in the hospital waiting area (which appears to have had a makeover as the frosted glass has gone) and Beth delivers a bag of Sinead's clothes to the waiting Chesney with Kirk sat along side him. Beth confirms that the clothes are all clean and suitable. Sinead had made the nighty herself - but it was so good you would never know. Beth has provided an update to the Street and she has found most things except the magazine. Chesney remains distressed.

Sean is lying on the sofa and Eileen passes him his phone - missed messages from Billy who has put "OMG". And Billy would only put that if he really means it after all. Eileen told Billy about the crash and he wants to come over. She has a slight smile playing on her lips! With him being a Christian she was sure Billy would want to come round, after all Sean is the hero of the hour. So she is going out so that they can be together.

Gary is at Alya's bedside apologising for not being there. Zeedan swaggers in and tells him he is only about 10 hours late. Gary does not respond - but eventually admits he was out on the lash with Jason. Zeedan tears him off a strip and Alya tells him to stop behaving like a bouncer - she is quite able to decided whom she wishes to see. Kal appears behind "Zee" and tells him that he agrees with Alya and he does not want any more arguing. And anyway Gary and Alya pay no notice - so leave them to talk.

Back in the Rovers Ty updates Eileen, Steve and 'Chelle about the emergency operation on Sinead. Steve offers to run Ty back to the hospital and Eileen observes that Ty would be safer walking. Eileen asks Steve directly if as reported he was driving like a lunatic. Michelle responds that it was an accident. Ty points out that Steve does more miles than Lewis Hamilton and if a boy racer cuts him up he knows better than to respond. Michelle defends Steve to Eileen's surprise.

In the back room Steve sits in a corner and Michelle seeks to reassure Steve. She tells him he must stop hiding away. Steve is worried about Sinead being in a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Michelle just wishes she had known sooner about Steve's illness. He has not been given magic pills - but he does have a partner for the long term. He says that Hamish would not need a carer and she responds she can be a partner as well. Steve asks if she would rather be with someone with less baggage - she just wants him. He cannot believe he has been so horrible to her, what he has put her through. He says she is the best thing that has ever happened to him - he does not know what he was thinking. Steve cannot believe he has to take tablets for depression - it is something he never thought would happen to him. He suggests his problems would be solved if they spent a week on the beach together. After some prodding he takes the first tablet. This is the most Steve has said in months to anyone.

At David's he lets Eva into the house and he is on the phone to a missing person's agency. Apparently Kylie has been using her card. Eva by the way is being shot very carefully most of the time at the moment.

Back at the hospital there is no news and Chesney goes for a walk.

In the Rovers they are all signing a large Get Well card for Sinead. Michelle returns to the bar and Eileen wants to know why she is being lovey dovey with Steve. Michelle takes her aside and explains about the depression. So Steve is not just a simple careless driver. Eileen struggles to understand it - but Michelle explains the history that Steve could not face the truth.

Beth finds Chesney sitting in another corner and she puts her arm around him and hugs him as we roll into the break.

Part 2 opens with Mary and Roy acknowledging each other - but far from friendly. And the camera pans around to Steve sitting on Maxime's Bench. Roy approaches and sits on the bench. Steve says he is public enemy number one and Roy says that he must therefore be public enemy number 2. Steve explains that Sinead may never walk again. Roy cannot believe that Steve would drive recklessly deliberately and Steve cannot believe Roy would deliberately hit Gary with a cricket bat. Roy says he will regret it for the rest of his life. They need to find a way to make amends. Steve wishes he could turn the clock.

Gary is telling Anna and Katie that maybe Kal is coming round to the idea of him seeing Alya. Anna lets Roy in on her way out.

Eva is sitting on a sofa with various cushions around her midriff. She asks David what she should say. David phones Kylie and passes the phone to Eva so she can leave a message. "Hi babes we miss you loads - get your backside back here". Max wants to know what is going on - so he leaves a message asking for Kylie to come home as well. David tries not to say anything about her return.

In the back room Michelle is telling Eileen they all have to rally round and support Steve. He returns and knows they are talking about him. Steve admits that people need to be told - including Eileen. She gives him a huge hug and departs.

Roy is apologising to Gary. He offers Gary a job - part time. Hours to be part time. Gary is shocked and cannot believe it. Roy is sure Gary can adapt his skills. Roy would like to help Gary in a constructive and practical matters - if Gary had had a job three weeks ago then the events would not have happened. Gary accepts the job.

Sean has a smart clean shirt on and Billy arrives. Billy could not concentrate on his service because he has been worried. He makes it clear that he wants to be more than a friend. Billy admits that he does have feelings for Sean and news of the accident means he has to be honest with himself and Sean.

Roy stops Mary in the Street - but she tries to hurry away from him. He tells Mary that Gary is to take the job. She adds that there is no rift which cannot be mended in time and he says that he does not want to lose her friendship as that would be very bitter.

Alya arrives home and Gary spots her going indoors. Zeedan once again tells him to stay away from Alya. Zee thinks she deserves much more than Gary. Gary tries to convince Zee that he is worthy of Alya - but Zee is not for turning. Gary says he has got a job and will turn his life around - but Zee tells him to stay away from Alya.

Sinead is back from theatre and is being seen by the consultant.

Sean suggests a kiss - but Billy wants to go on a proper date first. Sean says however that he will not be coming to church and Billy accepts his non-belief. Sean admits that during the crash he did have a moment of belief. He says that when he was in the minibus the one thing which got him through was looking down at his skinny jeans and wishing he had got them in green (!). Billy laughs. Sean gets a peck on the cheek.

In the hospital Chesney, Beth and Kirk finally get to see Sinead. The surgeon says it went well. Sinead is only looking on the downside. She is flat on her back and she may never walk again. Chesney kisses her. Roll credits.

And what did we learn this evening?
a) Cushions do not really hide an advanced pregnancy
b) Priests can have feelings for non-believers
c) Zee is going to take a lot of convincing

Plus a couple of questions
a) Can a labourer really cook breakfasts to Roy's standards?
b) Can all partners be as forgiving as Michelle - after all she has already forgiven the Becky episode and now the treatment of the last six months?

We shall see.
Richard


Monday 26 January

Written by Jonathan Harvey Directed by Lee Salisbury

Norris is in fine fettle this morning. Steve comes out of the corner shop and Norris shouts for all to hear and asks how Steve's guilty conscience is. Must have made his day, seeing as Norris is a little fish in a little pond and all. Audrey scolds him but Norris is eternally smug in his righteousness. Steve has told Audrey he doesn't know how Sinead is because he's not family so the hospital won't tell him anything. He heads back to the pub where Michelle has come outside with Norris still shouting down the road at him. Michelle pulls Steve back inside.

Beth and Chesney are trying to keep Sinead's spirits up. Her horoscope is hopeful, apparently. There are more tests to be done. Sally and Alya have come to visit and Sinead is pleased to see them. Chesney frets that she's overdoing it but she points out she's lying on her back doing nothing.

David is still leaving phone messages for Kylie to no avail. Max hears him and asks when his mummy is coming home. David says "soon" and diverts him. Gail wonders if he should tell Max that Kylie might not come home but David isn't going to accept that and snaps at Michael before taking Max to school. Gail and Michael wonder if there was anything they can do.

Todd is moaning about having Tony for a boss when he and Tracy got on as a great team. Jason slags his brother off as just a lackey and he wouldn't have a job at all if Tony hadn't bailed Tracy out. Todd knows that but isn't keen on Tony full stop and isn't looking forward to taking orders from him. Eileen is also moaning, because she couldn't get into the bathroom before all the others and is now going to be late for work. She feels like the nursery rhyme woman that lived in a shoe (with so many children, she didn't know what to do). Eva only reckons it would be amazing to live in a shoe! But Eileen's comment about too many people living in the house makes Eva think.

Down the road, there's scaffolding and tarpaulin up in front of the Bistro, hiding the renovations behind. I guess they're doing up the outside as well as the inside, then. Gail asks Nick and Leanne how it's coming along. They're both excited about it. He also tells them the restaurant is going back to being Nick's Bistro. Leanne runs down to catch up with Eva and they discuss what to do for tea. Leanne wants a meal alone with Kal. Eva's ok with going to Jason's.

Michael has put up missing person posters of Kylie. Gail is touched. I don't think David will be.

Eva is in Barlow's Buys asking Tony if Jason ever talks about her. Anyway, she has an idea. She wants Jason to move in with her and they can get their own place. Todd won't commit to it being a good or bad idea but looks a bit distracted. Eva can see he's not excited by the idea of them buying a place and puts it down to him feeling down because he hasn't got a loved one of his own. She gives him a hug and he says he's happy for him but he's not, really. We can see that.

Kirk heads back to the hospital and tells Craig he's setting off. Craig asks if he and Beth were rowing, only he heard shouting last night. Kirk admits that he's still having nightmares about the crash. Understandable. He leaves and Craig puts his headphones back on. Kirk opens the door to Tim waiting there. He asks after Sinead and then asks if he can get some hot water for his bucket. Kirk lets him in, telling him Craig is in the kitchen and then leaves for the bus. Tim goes straight upstairs, unseen by Craig who then goes for his coat and leaves to go for a walk, locking the door behind him. Tim comes down stairs and realizes he's locked in, with no Craig in the house. The back door is locked, too.

David comes out of the salon and notices one of the posters.

Michael and Gail are in the cafe. Gary serves them. They sit down, Gail approving of Roy hiring Gary. David comes in and tears a strip off them, which idiot put up the posters? Michael admits to it but is quickly chastened when he realizes that Max could see the posters. Gail defends him but David is furious and orders Michael out to take them down.

After the break, Tim is still struggling to get out of the house, but even the windows are painted shut. No luck there so he turns around and starts to dial someone on his phone, leaning against Darryl the Rat's cage. He then notices there's no little fuzzy beastie in the cage and looks around. He sees the rat, who's sitting in a little dish on the table and making little squeaking noises. Tim squeaks even louder and jumps back!

Back to the cafe, next, where Carla and Michelle have come in for a break with Sally and Alya. They chat about Sinead, Sally thinking that Sinead was keeping a brave face on it. Roy, returning from the community centre, asks after her. He goes upstairs to clean up but just then Gary drops a mug. Alya rushes over and offers to help. He can make fresh coffee, she'll mop up. Meanwhile, Carla is telling Michelle that the factory will be back open next week and it will be noses to the grindstone. She wants Michelle to cheer her up but Michelle has a lot on her plate too. She does mention that Steve has his first therapy session later this week. She's worried how Steve will feel if Sinead..... That's really (not) cheered Carla up.

The doctor is in with Sinead and is sticking pins in her leg. There's no feeling. Sinead thinks she felt something but when she's said it, we can see that the doctor hadn't touched her at the time. Chesney and Beth smile at her but the Doctor doesn't.

Carla hobbles down the cobbles with Sean who's asking about when they are going back to work. He says he's had lots of time to get ready for his hot date, with the time off they've had. He asks if she needs help with anything but when she declines, they part ways.

Eva has made Jason a frittata, French for Omelet. She comments that it's nice to have the place to themselves and then brings up the topic that his mother talked about overcrowding so maybe they should buy a place of their own? He continues eating and doesn't seem to be surprised or have a reaction at all. She starts to back down but he says it's a wicked idea! Ooh she's all excited now. She has to go to the salon and wants to talk about it later. He compliments her on the frittata and she leaves with one of those wonderful little Eva giggles that she does.

Meanwhile, Tim's got his back to the back window. The rat is still on the table and Tim's shaking in his boots, singing to himself to calm himself down. Craig finally arrives. Tim cries out that there's a rat in the house! That's Darryl, you great wazzock, Craig says, he lives here! Tim explains that he got locked in when he went to get hot water. He pushes past Craig and runs out in a panic. He sees Sally across the street and gasps out what happened. There's a rat in Number 5!!! Yeah. Sally knows. It's Darryl. Tim admits he's got a phobia and he's still panicking. Sally shoots him down. She's just survived a bus crash and he's panicking over a domesticated rat? She spits "Get a grip, you big drama queen" and then jokes that she'll give him a stuffed rat for his upcoming birthday.

Michael has gathered all the posters. Gail admits David has a point and Michael is upset he didn't think of it. David gets home and Michael apologizes. David calls and leaves another message for Kylie, he tells her that Gail is dead after a mugging. Gail is horrified listening as David really rubs in the message. He reckons that's how you get someone to come home.

Sean is traipsing through the house in his onesie and animal slippers, face pack on, when Billy knocks at the door. He's very, very early, a dismayed Sean points out. Billy had tried to contact him but due to the music Sean has on, he didn't hear the phone. He pulls Billy inside. Billy is told to make himself at home while Sean puts on the kettle before continuing to get ready.

We're in the pub. Steve is talking to Kirk or trying to but Kirk doesn't want to talk to him. Norris is in there making nasty comments about Steve, speculating about his mental state leading up to the accident. He'd been acting strangely, after all. He keeps digging and digging until Michelle has had enough and tells them all that Steve is suffering clinical depression. There are a few surprised faces but Steve is not looking too pleased that the secret is out of the bag.

In the salon, Steph asks Audrey if she can work with black hair only her regular stylist is out of town but she's worried about trusting her hair to anyone new. Audrey tells her that Maria and David have both taken courses on doing hair of all types including hers. Steph is satisfied and books in for tomorrow. Eva is in the chair and asks how things are going with Gavin. She says fine, a bit uncomfortable, and leaves. There's a call for David. Turns out Kylie has been shoplifting in Rochdale. Eva insists on coming with him.

Tvor

Written by Cardy O'Donnell and directed by Lee Salisbury

David and Eva turn up at the supermarket where Kylie has been caught shoplifting. The manager says he would have rung the police except that some pictures of the kids fell out of her bag and some business cards from the salon. He decided to call David instead. He takes them into the back room, only to find it's not Kylie at all but her old friend Gemma who flings her arms round David and whispers he should play along. David angrily shouts at her to get off.

Michelle goes into the back to apologise to Steve for telling Norris about his depression. But it's Tracy who's up in arms. She comes storming through and demands to know why she didn't know that Steve had "gone radio gaga". And is he even capable of looking after Amy now that he has mental health issues? She even suggests Steve was trying to kill the lot of them when he was driving the bus. Tracy demands that Steve tells Amy before she finds out in the playground. Michelle protests but Steve agrees that for once Tracy's right and Amy needs to know.

Tim's back outside cleaning windows. Craig apologises for locking him in. He tries to explain the Darryl is a harmless rat but Tim is clearly not convinced. Craig offers to help him with his window cleaning and Tim playfully throws him a wet rag.

Back at the supermarket David's interrogating Gemma while the manager hovers behind, ready to call the police. She eventually admits that Kylie fell out with Callum just after Christmas so went to stay with her. But then Gemma stole the last of Kylie's ‘gear' and hid her bag so she'd think she'd lost it, at which point a furious Kylie stormed out, minus her bag, and she hasn't seen her since. David and Eva leave her to her fate with the manager who is calling the police and head off to find Callum.

Billy is making polite conversation with Todd while he waits for Sean then Jason arrives with Tony and Billy introduces himself. Sean finally comes down, a vision in a flowery shirt, and full of excitement at the prospect of his first proper date with Billy. After he's gone Tony has a word with Todd about his attitude at the shop. It may not be working hours now but that isn't going to stop Tony telling him who's boss. Meanwhile Jason's fretting because Eva hasn't replied to his messages. He mentions to Tony that they want to get a mortgage. We see Todd by the stairs looking miserable at the thought he's missing out while his brother seems to be getting his life sorted out.

Chesney's talking to Beth in the corridor at the hospital. He has a dilemma. They both saw that when Sinead said she could feel something, the doctor wasn't actually touching her leg at the time. Beth is all for keeping quiet but Ches feels he must tell Sinead the truth. Beth says it's up to Ches but warns him if he does it will break Sinead's heart.

Tracy has brought Amy round to see Steve so he can tell her what's wrong with him. It takes him a few goes but he finally gets the words out and explains he has depression. Amy's reaction is very matter of fact. She tells him Lady Gaga's got depression and she takes tablets for it. Steve says it makes him feel sad a lot of the time but when Amy asks why Steve replies that he doesn't know. He hastens to add that he never feels sad about Amy.

Audrey goes round to talk to Gail about David but Gail is too busy being put out by the fact that David's been leaving Kylie messages saying that she's died. She can't see the funny side of it at all and thinks it's tempting fate. She says that if she drops dead tomorrow they'll all be sorry. Audrey finally gets a word in and says there's been a development.

David and Eva arrive at Callum's local to find him playing darts. He stops and turns to his mates. "Who was it said that if the hairdresser turned up here he'd get knocked out?" he asks the assembled company.

Callum orders his mates to take David outside but he's saved from whatever fate might have befallen him by the arrival of Gemma. Callum demands to know where Kylie is but Gemma tells him they've fallen out and she has no idea. Callum threatens her with cutting off her supplies of ‘gear' if she lies to him again. It looks like David is off the hook until Callum says he wonders what Max would do if he found out he was his real dad. Callum tells David not to make any more social calls unless he wants him to return the favour.

Jason is struggling with his paperwork. He tells Todd that he doesn't have enough money for a bag of chips, let alone a mortgage. Todd makes out he's being the caring brother and tells him not to worry, he'll have the money sorted out in no time but we see him smirking to himself.

Now that Steve has managed to tell Amy about his depression he tells Michelle there's someone else he needs to go and speak to.

Craig is bonding with Tom over a burger in the kebab shop. He's talking about what he'd like to do when he grows up. Maybe a dolphin trainer or something to do with computers. He'd like to have a website and write a blog about rats. He asks Tim if he needs an apprentice window cleaner. Tim says not right now but Craig promises if he ever does, he won't let him down.

Beth and Ches are sitting by Sinead's bedside. She's just woken from a dream which she thinks was inspired by feeling the needle in her leg. Beth says if she thinks she felt it, that's all that matters. Sinead is confused - she knows she felt it. Ches decides it's the moment to tell her the truth. Not surprisingly this upsets Sinead. "What if I never walk again?" she cries. With very unfortunate timing, Steve arrives to find out how Sinead is doing. Ches steps out into the corridor and tells him to get out and stay away from his family.

Sean's enjoying his date with Billy in the Rovers. He's tying himself into knots talking about Billy's job but Billy affectionately tells him he's really sweet when he's embarrassed. Then Billy's phone rings. He has to go and see one of his parishioners who's having a hard time. He promises Sean they'll have another date really soon and he'll give him his undivided attention.

Gail, Audrey and Michael are waiting for David to come home with Kylie. When he walks in alone, Gail immediately assumes Kylie's been locked up but David tells them what happened. He's holding Kylie's bag and Michael suggests looking inside to see if it holds any clues. Strange David didn't think of doing that. Anyway, it does indeed contain something interesting - a letter from Kylie addressed to Max and Lily.

Jason comes into the Rovers and meets up with Eva. She's tired after her day spent running round trying to help David. Just as they're about to get a drink Todd arrives. Knowing exactly what he's doing he tells Jason he could rent somewhere until he can get together enough money for a deposit. Eva wants to know what he's on about. Eva's face falls as Jason explains that he was going to tell her but they're going to have to keep saving before they have enough money to think about getting a mortgage.

Max has come downstairs and he's sitting on the sofa next to David who reads out the letter from Kylie. In it she tells the children that she's sorry she had to leave them but it doesn't mean that she doesn't love them. It kills her not to see them every day but she knows they'll be better off without them. She says that they'll come to realise David is an amazing dad who will look after them properly. She asks David to be brave a look after his baby sister. She hopes one day she'll see them again but only when she knows she's not going to mess up their lives. Max says he wants her to come home. "So do I, mate" replies David.

Karen


Wednesday 28 January

It's Tim's birthday, and he's decidedly underwhelmed at the present from Sally - a vintage children's book about dinosaurs. As he goes to leave, Sally tells him she'll see him tonight. "What about lunchtime?" he asks. She tells him she needs a few things from town so won't be back. As he goes off, in a bit of a huff, she turns away from the front door laughing to herself.

Over at Gail's, Michael is reciting all Gail's previous surnames...Potter, Tilsley, Platt, Hillman, McKintyre. She urges him not to think about the past, and they start to think about their own wedding. She wants it to be as simple and stress free as possible. "Weatherfield registry office is it?" says Michael. Gail tells him they do a very good job. "And," she adds, "if I have another wedding there I get the next one half price!" They fall about laughing.

Just then David comes in, he's upset because Max's teacher has been asking about Kylie - again, and he's worried that Social Services might start interfering, and David never got round to adopting Max officially. Gail is sure that Max wouldn't be removed from his home, but David is not so sure, he wants to know where he stands. Michael suggests asking the Citizen's Advice Bureau. David says he just wants to make sure that whatever is left of this family stays together.

Gary is cooking in the cafe, and talking to Anna about his community service. He's got a meeting about it later.

Eva is in the cafe, talking to Jason about them buying a house together. She points out that they're both working. Jason is still adamant that he's skint, they can't afford it. "Maybe in a few years," he says, kissing the top of her head in a patronising way and leaving.

Zeedan and Alya come into the cafe, Zeedan ignores Gary when he asks what they want, and gives Roy his order for eggs. Roy says that Gary will do it, but Zeedan doesn't want Gary to do it, he wants Roy. Roy tells him that even the finest restaurants do not allow the customers to choose their serving staff, Gary is on fried eggs this morning. Zeedan turns and walks out, so Gary makes eggs just for Alya, who tells him that she's going to come to the meeting with him.

Tony has acquired a job lot of battery operated toy dogs for Tracy's shop, but she's not happy because she's sure they won't sell.

Faye has met up with Tim in the Street and given him a present - another book! This time a brand new paperback which he is rather more pleased with. They meet up with Craig at the bus stop, who asks Tim if he can do a job for him after school, seeing as it's his birthday. Faye begs to be allowed to help too, so in the end Tim says they can clean the outside of Sally's conservatory.

Nick, Steph, Gail and Andy, aka 'Gavin', have gone to the cafe to eat and have a staff meeting, as the Bistro is being redecorated.

Tyrone and Chesney go into the cafe, and Anna asks how Sinead is. Ches tells them she's about the same, they're trying to keep optimistic.

Michael comes in and tells Gail and the others that he's just had a call from the hospital with a date for his open heart surgery - it's next week!

Tim goes into the Rovers and finds Maddie and Sophie there. He asks which of them will buy him a birthday drink, but they make excuses and leave.

Tracy has been out on her lunch break, but comes back to the shop still moaning to Tony about the dogs, he should get rid of them, they're not going to sell. He tells her someone just bought three. She then locks the door and puts the closed sign up, and takes him out to the back room!

Todd comes back to the shop and wonders why the door is locked and he can't get in, so he pulls out his mobile and phones Tracy. We see her hand emerge from behind the desk and grab her phone. "It's Todd," she says, "get dressed." The two of them stand up, adjusting their clothing, and she tells him to go out the back way, pronto. She goes to open the front door, telling Todd she was having a nap because Amy kept her up all night with tummy ache.

Craig and Faye are cleaning the windows of Sally's conservatory. Craig peers through the blind and sees Sally, dressed in a dressing gown, giving Kevin a hug. They jump immediately to the wrong conclusion and Faye says they have to go and find her dad.

Steph and Andy are talking about Michael's operation. "What if he dies?" says Steph. She tells him that he needs to get hold of the real Gavin and tell him what's happening. Andy says that's what he's been trying to do for weeks, but Gavin's either lost his phone or he's just not interested.

Behind the bar in the Rovers, Eva is complaining to Tony about Jason's lack of interest in buying a house. Tracy comes in and, upon learning what they're talking about, tells Eva that she must use her feminine wiles to get what she wants. She reckons it's the only thing men understand.

In the cafe, Anna brings Tim his order. "It's my birthday today," he tells her. "Lovely," murmurs Anna and hurries away from his table to talk to Zeedan who has returned. She asks if he's actually going to order something or whether he's just come in for another go at Gary. "Cheese and potato pie," he snaps, rudely. Just then Gary and Alya come back from the meeting. Gary's community service involves going to the Red Rec and doing painting and renovations, that sort of thing. Zeedan sneers and walks out, the cheese and potato pie apparently forgotten. "He's definitely warming to me," says Gary.

Faye rushes in, breathless. "We've been looking everywhere for you," she says to Tim.

Eva appears to have taken Tracy's advice and gone to the yard in a low cut top with freshly applied make up. Jason however, appears oblivious, until she tells him she's trying to be provocative. He wonders what she wants - a night out? A new handbag? She tells him that Tony has offered to give them the deposit for a house. Jason is furious and shouts at her, he's cross that she's talked about it to someone else (although she points out that Tony is his dad, not just anyone) and he tells her that when they can afford a house they'll get one. She can't expect to just click her fingers and get what she wants.

Faye, Craig and Tim get back to Sally's house. As they walk in the door Sally and Kevin come downstairs. "I was just going to call you," says Sally, all smiles. "What's going on?" Tim wants to know. Sally calls the girls and down the stairs come Sophie and Maddie with a cake ablaze with candles and singing happy birthday. "But she was wearing a dressing gown," blusters Craig, but Tim takes no notice. "I've never had a surprise birthday before," he says, really pleased. Sally then shows Tim his real present - the dinosaur book was a ploy. It's a home brewing kit. Craig apologises for getting it so wrong, but Tim is fine about it. He reckons loyalty is a good quality in an apprentice. "An apprentice?" asks Craig. "You're hired!" says Tim.

Tyrone is locking up the garage and chatting away to a tired and very stressed Chesney. He suggests going to the Rovers, but Chesney explodes, he doesn't want to see Steve, it's his fault Sinead is in the state she's in, she might never walk again.

David is telling Michael that as Callum's name is on the birth certificate he has the same rights over Max as Kylie has. "What, even if he and Max have never met?" asks Michael. David assures him that that is the law. Gail can't believe that if the drug-dealing thug wanted custody of Max all he has to do is come and get him. "That man could never look after a child, and why would he want to?" she asks. David explains that what he can do is apply for a temporary residence order but he would still have to go to court and argue that Max has a stable home with him.

In Tracy's shop, Todd is remarking on the large number of toy dogs they've sold. Tracy makes out it was all her idea. Todd thinks he should put some in the window.

Eva is sitting on the bench in the Street, crying. Tony comes out of the pub and finds her, and she tells him how Jason got cross about the house deposit. He's so stubborn - or maybe it's his way of saying that he can't see a future for them, she says. Tony puts a comforting arm around her shoulders, and is seen by Todd from the pawn shop window.

Anne Logan


Friday 30 January

Sinead wakes up in the hospital to find Chesney by her bed. In a bit of role reversal, she has to reassure him that things will be all right. He tells her Princess Bride is on TV later on - she's only seen it about 100 times. She sends him home to freshen up and to fetch some junk food so they can watch it together later. "Oh, and brush your teeth, will you?"

Eva still seems upset with Jason at breakfast, though she tells him she's not angry, just upset and disappointed. She doesn't see what the problem is if Tony wants to help them on to the property ladder. Jason thinks it's all about Tony trying to control him. Todd comes in to say the bathroom is free. Jason can't work out why Todd's spending so much time getting ready for work. Todd says he thinks Tracy might be turning him. Jason says his job is likely to finish early today and he should take Eva out for a drink but she claims to have a dentist appointment.

Norris is busy counting cards in the Kabin when Sophie and Maddie arrive, talking about something involving numbers. This completely throws off Norris's counting so when Maddie claims he's shortchanged her (Of course she's sure it was a 20 - that's all she had on her) he refuses to countenance the idea and won't even open the till to check. And when Maddie snaps that he should be living under a bridge somewhere he bans her from the Kabin.

Chesney almost gets run over when he steps in front of Tyrone's vehicle. Tyrone doesn't have time for a chat now but he tells Chesney to be more optimistic - Sinead's tougher than she looks. He also tells Chesney to make sure he looks after himself.

Chesney sees Joseph and Katy in the street. Ches clearly is almost out on his feet.

David is escorting Max home from school. He asks how Max's headache is. It's a trick question because the school told David Max had a stomach ache. They meet Katy and Joseph and David mentions he's having to take the afternoon off work to look after Max. Katy says that if Max really is just faking it, she's happy to have him for a while. So Max goes off with Katy and Joseph, nobody noticing Callum watching from inside his car.

In the cafe, Anna mentions that Gary starts his community service today. Eva gets a call from Tony and arranges to meet him to view some houses. She says she's told Jason she's going to the dentist. She hasn't noticed Todd come in behind her and listen to the end of her call. Todd confronts her about it and Eva tells him she hopes that if she finds the right house and Todd sees it, he might change his mind about accepting the money from Tony. Todd promises to say nothing about it.

Michelle finds Steve puffing away in the smoking area. He's depressed at the idea he needs to see "a shrink" - and that's on top of his clinical depression. He says he doesn't know who he is any more and it feels as if everyone's looking at him as if he's some kind of exhibit.

Beth turns up in Sinead's hospital room and it's in the company of her auntie that Sinead breaks down and says what she really thinks. What if this is as good as it's going to get? What if she never gets any better? This isn't what Chesney signed up for. She weeps.

Katy is in the cafe with the two boys. While she's talking to Anna, Max sees Callum outside and goes out to see him. Katy panics and races out, demanding that Max get away from this strange man. But Max says it's all right, he knows him. Callum says he's an old mate of Kylie's. Katy calms down a bit but takes Max back into the cafe - though not before Callum's managed to charm her name out of her.

Chesney wakes up on the sofa and demands to know what Craig's doing there. Craig points out he lives there. Chesney's slept well past school finishing time and now he hasn't kept his promise to Sinead and he doesn't have time to have his shower and sort the food and the movie will be half over. . . Craig tells him to have the shower and says he'll sort out the food.

In the Rovers, Michelle wonders why a woman who works in a place full of booze would come into the Rovers for a drink. Leanne's just trying to get away from all the stress of the Bistro revamp. She asks after Steve and wonders if he just needs something to do to keep his mind off things. Michelle isn't sure he's ready for work so Leanne suggests giving him an errand in town to give him something to focus on.

Craig goes to Tim and asks for a favour and for a twenty-pound advance on his wages.

Tony and Eva are back. Tony's suggesting a renovation which could work on the last place they saw but Eva doesn't quite understand. They decide to go to the flat so Tony can explain what he means. From the shop, Todd sees them go. He calls Jason and suggests they go for a drink later.

In the Kabin, Norris chats to Leanne about the Bistro opening next week. In the back, Rita's added things up twice but the till is still up ten pounds. Norris looks very guilty. "What have you done?" Rita asks.

Craig has a load of food in Sally's picnic basket. "You know what?" he says to Tim. "My mother was totally wrong about you!"

Jason goes into Barlow's Buys but Todd says he's just heard that Tracy won't be in, so he can't go for a drink now. Why doesn't Jason go out with Eva. Jason explains Eva's at the dentist but Todd says no, she's back. He saw her. Jason should go home. "She's probably at the flat now."

Maddie and Sophie are in the shop when Rita comes to give Maddie the ten quid she's owed. Why hasn't Norris brought it himself and apologised. Because he's a stupid old goat, Rita says. Maddie's glad to have the money back but it's clear she's annoyed there's no apology. Rita tells her the ban from the Kabin no longer applies.

"What's going on here?" asks Jason, finding Eva in the flat with Tony.

In the street, Tyrone meets Steve. Steve is very low - he can't bring himself to run an errand for Michelle because he doesn't want to drive in case something happens. Tyrone says nothing will happen. "It might!" Steve insists. "Look at Sinead!" Chesney sees them talking and is enraged. Is Tyrone taking Steve's side? "He walked away without a scratch and Sinead's lying in a hospital bed not even knowing if she's ever going to walk again!"

The End.
More in the second episode.
Margaret Carr

Good evening. Friday again and time for another update.

This is series 56, episode 22; or episode 8566. It was written by Susan Oudot and directed by Lee Salisbury. Copyright remains the property of ITV to whom many thanks for keeping us entertained.

Action commences tonight with Steve telling Ches that he does not know what to say. He moves away and Ches shouts after him that he is simply running away like he did at the crash. Ty seeks to restrain him. Agnes has arrived and wants some help to get indoors.

Jason is questioning Eva (who is putting on her makeup before heading to the Rovers) about her being at home with Tony - but he does not get a straight answer.

Anna is seeking to re-assure Gary that Alya will accept his story. In the background Owen clearly is in no mind to give Gary any leeway whatsoever; his disappearing act and friendship with Alya are not repairing the damage he has done. Gary heads off to see his son and Owen is quite dismissive about Gary finding the time to spend with his son. Anna pulls Owen up on it and again the two of them are striking sparks off each other.

Chesney is given instructions to calm down and is told he has to have patience - these things take time. He has to start thinking straight. Chesney has to learn to pace himself. Wise advice from grandmother.

In the hospital Beth is giving Sinead a pep talk. Beth recalls a recorder that Sinead was bought for Christmas. By the end of Boxing Day she had learnt a song. She needs similar persistence now.

Katie returns Max to David and Max tells David that they had seen Callum. David calls Katie stupid - and then cannot explain the importance of Callum.

Michelle is with Steve waiting to see the therapist. Grantleigh Budgen from Waterloo Road sticks his head around the door and it turns out that he is the therapist.

In the Rovers Eva seems to be the only one serving and Norris keeps complaining. He receives a phone call before placing his order and then Sophie and Maddie arrive whilst he discusses with the delivery firm when they will make their delivery. Maddie wants an apology - but he is not giving one.

Owen and Anna arrive - but clearly things are not between them.

Jason is getting the full wind up treatment from Todd who is pouring poison into his brother's ears over Eva and Tony. Sean and Billy arrive and Todd is told to put the kettle on.

Chesney arrives at the hospital with a surprise - Gee Gee and Sinead is pleased to see her. Agnes sends Beth and Kirk for a brew. She seems to spend her life drinking tea. Agnes looks at Sinead's chart.

The therapist asks Steve why he is there. Steve has trouble saying anything. So what brought Steve here? The therapist adds that most people are not used to talking about themselves and feel self-conscious; Steve sips some more water.

After the break and the meerkats we continue with David peering out of the window. Max is asleep on the sofa.

Norris refuses to believe that Brian Cox used to be a pop star. Whilst he is wittering Sophie comes over and distracts him. The other side of him Maddie picks up his phone and fiddles with it.

Gary is showing Anna pictures of Jake but when Owen returns and bad mouths Gary he departs to see Alya. Owen and Anna argue - she refuses to side with Owen this time, collects her coat and departs.

The therapist is telling Steve to take small steps. Steve says he feels he has let everyone down. Michelle, his mum, his daughter, his business partner and then there was this bus crash. Sinead is in hospital as a result and the entire family hate him. And everyone else on the bus reckon it was his fault. He is told that he cannot possibly know how these people feel (given by the way they have been going on I think he can!). Steve recounts the Chesney attack in the Street. The therapist seeks to explain the actions other than as hatred of Steve. Steve needs to focus on his own feelings, not those of others.

Eileen, Billy and Sean go out. Todd and Jason stay behind and the former uses it as an opportunity to pour even more poison into Jason's ears about Eva and her friendship with Tony.

In the hospital they start working out a visiting rota so that everyone can get a rest and spend some time with Sinead. Kirk seems mainly concerned to ensure that she has ordered breakfast. Ty has a quiet word with Ches to say that he will help with the baby if it is needed.

Steve and Michelle are home and she is telling him that the counselling will help and he will get better. And she will see him through it.

In the bar Eileen can hear a voice coming from Norris's phone - it is the talking clock at 30p a minute. In the meantime the delivery firm have been trying to ring him. The minute he ends the call to the talking clock the phone goes from the very annoyed couriers.

Back at the hospital Craig has brought in a box of goodies including a dvd player. Apart from Ches the family all depart and Ches suggests getting some boxed sets to watch. He sits down on the bed and places his hand on her leg and she "jumps". She tells him to do it again - she can definitely feel it. He rushes to get a nurse and she has a broad smile on her face.

Can anyone help me? Sinead throughout this episode has had a piece of plastic tubing around her nose - I assume to facilitate oxygen. But why? Her problems are not with breathing and having that permanently attached to my nose would annoy me no end. When my mother and daughter had hospital visits a couple of years ago I do not remember then being hooked up in such a way - and yet in Corrie the minute they are in a hospital bed the nose is connected. Can someone explain?

What lessons were there for us this evening?
a) If you are having a mental breakdown make sure you have Michelle in your corner (come to think of it a Michelle in your bed at any time is probably a good thing).
b) If you are a stupid lump called Owen tearing into your partner's son all the time is not going to do your relationship any good
c) Katie if you must fancy a bit of rough do make sure that he is not the real father of the bond kid you are looking after
d) If you have died in Waterloo Road it is still possible to get another job.

And I will be back next week.

Richard



Updates written by K Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen,Duncan Lindsay, Christine Warren, Ann Logan, Margaret Carr, Tvor, Karen Jankel.