Sarah bumps into David, Kylie and Max. She turns down an invitation to go and watch the school nativity play this evening as she has other plans. Sarah asks David if he fit her in for a blow dry but knowing it's for her date with Aidan, David says he's fully booked. Never mind, says Sarah, she'll get her gran to do it.

It's breakfast time round at the Tinker-Sutherland household. Craig's trying to talk to Caitlin on the phone but Kirk and Beth keep interrupting. Beth really oversteps the mark when she grabs the phone off Craig and invites Caitlin to come round for her tea. Craig tells his mother in no uncertain terms to keep her nose out and goes off to college in a huff.

Carla and Nick are having a smooch in the street before going off to work. Kate and Sally walk past discussing the inappropriate way newsreaders dress nowadays. Kirk and Beth come along next on their way to the factory. Then Johnny and Aidan arrive and Nick takes his leave. Aidan asks his dad if he's moved into the flat OK. Apart from being a bit of a squeeze and the whiff of kebabs he says it's all fine.

Sarah's round at the salon and deliberately stirring things up with David and Kylie. She says that David has always had a tendency to be morbid and tells her about how he had his pet rabbit Barney stuffed after he died and kept him in his bedroom. Audrey comments that it's getting like a Stephen King novel and tells them all to stop talking about dead animals.

Todd calls into Street Cars to see Eileen. He's brought her some lunch which makes her instantly suspicious – when does Todd ever do anything nice without an ulterior motive? However, it doesn't stop her confiding in him about Michael giving undue attention to Dee. Todd says there's something different about her today and then notices she's wearing a jaunty scarf and put on extra make-up. He says that usually means there's a man involved.

Meanwhile, the object of Eileen's concern has called into the cafe to see Michael. She apologises for calling him last night and says he hopes Eileen didn't mind. Then Dee asks if he's had any news. Michael looks puzzled and asks about what but Dee doesn't say any more.

Sally's enjoying a bowl of soup for her lunch and singing along to the radio. She nearly jumps out of her skin when Tim unexpectedly walks in and she drops half the soup down her new blouse. She's not best pleased – he should be out working. But Tim explains he's rented out his van for the afternoon which means he's free to do something she's been wanting him to do for ages – clean her windows inside and out. And there's a special offer on at the Bistro so he's going to treat her later. Tim offers to help Sally take off her soup-stained clothes but Sally says the only dirty thing he's going to be doing this afternoon are her windows.

Audrey has just finished doing Sarah's hair when Billy comes in for a trim. Audrey tells him that Sarah's off on a date. Sarah leaves and David rushes out after her. He's worried she's still a mess but Sarah insists she's moved on and suggests he does the same. Sarah heads off up the street as Kylie then comes out to speak to David. Kylie doesn't know what David's worried about – Sarah is acting more normally than she has done in months. But David says he's knows Sarah's bottling everything up and she's not ready for this. He's worried that if she drinks too much tonight she could spill the beans to Aidan.

Nick's tearing his hair out. An order's turned up at the Bistro but it's all wrong. Two staff members have called in sick and he can't get hold of Andy or Steph. He sees Michael and asks if he knows where they are. Michael tells him they've gone off on holiday for a few days and says they cleared it with Leanne. But Michael is distracted by a letter he's holding.

In the factory Sally is all ears. Johnny is very excited as they've had an invitation to the annual haberdashers' dinner and dance. Trouble is, there's only one invite. But he needn't have worried because Carla has no intention of going and Aidan seems equally disinterested. Johnny is delighted that he gets to go as he sees it as a great networking opportunity and Sally, who is easily impressed by such things, congratulates him.

Todd has called into Street Cars again where his mother is keeping boredom at bay by trying to solve a Rubik's cube. She's missing Steve and Lloyd. Todd says that at least Michael's still there and, on cue, he comes in. Michael gets very defensive when Todd mentions how helpful he's been to Dee so Todd leaves them to it. Eileen asks Michael if he's feeling ok, is there a problem with his heart? Michael says it's nothing like that but he shows her what's in the letter he's been clutching. It seems that Dee has nominated him for this year's "Weatherfield Good Samaritan Award".

Now that his Mum's invited Caitlin round for tea Craig's decided to push the boat out and make Chicken Kiev. Beth promises they'll stay out of the way but Craig's obviously feeling sorry for his earlier outburst and suggests she and Kirk should join them. Kirk's dead excited – he's only ever had frozen Chicken Kiev out of a packet before.

Michelle arrives at the Rovers where Aidan is propping up the bar. Erica tells her he's about to go on a date with Sarah. Michelle jokes that she hope he hasn't got confused – the last she heard he had his eye on Eva. She's also surprised – she didn't think Sarah was his type. But before she can expand on this Sarah comes in. "Who do I have to snog to get a drink around here?" is her far-from-subtle opening line as she sidles up to Aidan. Michelle gives Erica a knowing glance.

Carla arrives in the Bistro to discover that Nick is short staffed so it looks as though their romantic evening is off. Without missing a beat, Carla dons an apron and ties back her hair, ready to help out. Nick looks pleased although somewhat surprised and asks if she's ever worked in a bar before. Carla points out she's had plenty of practice drinking in them – how hard can it be?

Craig's waiting for Caitlin to arrive. He confides to Kirk he's worried his mum will take over. As if to prove his point the doorbell rings and he has to rush to open it before Beth gets there first. Caitlin's brought flowers for Beth who is chuffed to bits. When Caitlin asks to use the bathroom Beth is quick to tell her she's put in a new air freshener specially for her visit. Craig looks mortified.

Michael goes into the Rovers with Eileen. He tells her that he wants to keep news of his award low key but five seconds later she's telling Michelle all about it. At one of the tables, Sarah is chatting away to Aidan about her time in Milan. Billy comes in with Todd and notes that it's good to see Sarah getting back on the horse. Billy and Todd join Eileen and Michael and she wastes no time in telling them about Michael's award.

David is next to come in. While Aidan goes to the bar to get more drinks he tries having a word with Sarah. But she's not about to be told what to do by her brother. She asks Aidan to add some shots to the round as she's paying and when he goes back to the bar she says to David that if he sees Nick he should tell him not to worry if she doesn't come home tonight. David goes over to Todd at the bar and asks him to keep an eye on Sarah.

END OF FIRST HALF

Karen

Second half.

Sarah is in the pub with Aidan, she's getting increasingly hammered but Aidan doesn't look too happy. When she goes to the bar, Todd asks her if she's ok, she assures him she is.

Over at the bar, Eileen, Michael and Billy are struggling to do a Rubik's cube. Todd reckons he could do it in 30 seconds, but unbeknown to then he has a brand new one in his bag that is all in the correct order. He distracts them for a moment and does the switch, amazing them all. Then Billy looks over at Sarah and wonders if she's ok.

Beth, Kirk, Craig and Caitlin have just finished the meal that Craig cooked. As Beth prattles on, Craig gets more and more embarrassed. Then she suggests playing a game, and pulls out a box of Kerplunk! Craig cringes.

Sally is sitting in the bistro, waiting for Tim, but it looks like being a long wait as the guy who borrowed the van has lost the keys. She tells him that as Mrs Connor is waiting on her hand and foot, it's the best night she's had in years. Carla then brings wine over for Sally to sample, but she's very critical and things begin to get a little fraught so Nick steps in and hustles Carla away. Behind the bar, he tells Carla that they're there to serve the customers, not engage in a battle of wills.

Back in the pub, Sarah is buying yet another round of drinks and getting rather unsteady on her feet, and spilling it.

Todd is still milking his 'success' with the Rubik's cube and getting Eileen to buy his drinks. Conversation turns to the award that Michael is in the running for. Eileen is thrilled by it all, but Michael seems increasingly uncomfortable about it all. Todd offers to buy the next round and puts his bag on the bar. Eileen peers inside and sees the packaging for the new Rubik's cube and realises she's been had.

Aidan tells Sarah that he's going to call it a night and thinks she should too. Sarah isn't happy, she wanted to go into town and says so, so loudly that the whole pub hears, but Aidan says goodnight and leaves. Billy offers to walk her home but she refuses his offer and stamps out of the pub. He tells Eileen and Michael that he'll just go and check she gets home all right.

Back in the bistro, Sally is leading Carla a merry dance by being a very difficult customer.

Kylie and David have got their children to bed, but he's still worrying about Sarah. Kylie tells him to chill out, they've got the house to themselves. Just then David gets a text from Todd telling him that Sarah is wasted and her date has gone pear-shaped.

Sarah is on the bench in the Street, talking to Billy, pouring out her history with men, starting with Todd and Jason then, just as she gets to Callum, David comes along, he tries to walk her home but she struggles away from him and staggers drunkenly onto the cobbles just as Tim comes round the corner in his van and knocks her down! He screeches to half and jumps out, as David rushes over to her. "Sarah! Sarah!" he shouts, but Sarah just lies motionless in the road.

In the bistro, Carla is still waitressing, and Sally is starting to wonder where Tim has got to, he's not even answering his phone now. When she goes off to the ladies, Nick tells Carla they make a great team, him and her, and she agrees and remarks that she's not used to being happy. "Is it such a novelty?" asks Nick. "Yes," says Carla, "with me and men, yes it is." Nick thinks that maybe they're just right for each other. "Let's get married!" says Carla. "What?" says Nick. "Nick Tilsley, will you marry me?" says Carla, just as Michelle comes in and has to interrupt them to tell Nick that Sarah has been in an accident and an ambulance has taken her to hospital. Carla tells him to just go.

Beth is embarrassing Craig still further by showing Caitlin all his baby photos. Eventually he jumps up and says he'll walk Caitlin to the bus stop. When they've gone, Beth remarks to Kirk that it all went well. "I don't know what Craig was so worried about," she says.

At the hospital, the doctor comes out and tells the family that Sarah has a minor head injury and a few cuts and scrapes but otherwise is fine. They'll keep her overnight for some more tests, but she's a lucky girl. They go in to see her, and Kylie asks her what happened. "I told you what happened," said David. Sarah says that it was her own stupid fault. They decide to let her get some rest, and Gail says she'll be back tomorrow with her nightie.

Tim and Sally are at home, talking about the accident. She thinks Sarah was a silly girl to get so drunk, and Tim hopes she'll be ok. Just then Gail phones to tell them that Sarah just has a few cuts and bruises.

Craig comes back in furious with his mother for embarrassing him again in front of Caitlin. "What's wrong with you?" he rants, adding that he and Caitlin hardly got a chance to say a word, they had to listen to 'Beth – the mini series, Part 1'. Just then Craig gets a text message from Caitlin saying she really enjoyed herself, Beth and Kirk are great!

Nick is back in the bistro, telling Carla about Sarah and saying that he'd better go and check that Bethany is ok. She asks if she can tempt him to one more drink, and he says ok. As she pours them, she says she never realised how hard waitressing was. He tells her she was amazing tonight. "The answer's yes, by the way," he says. She turns round. "What was the question?" she asks. "The question was – will you marry me?" he says, "to which the only sensible answer is – I will!" Carla laughs and kisses him.

In the Platt household, David tells Gail and Kylie that he knew Sarah wasn't ready to start dating again, and he knew she would get bladdered. Gail thinks that Aidan seems like a nice lad. Just then Max comes downstairs wanting to know if it was Callum that hurt Sarah. Kylie assures him that it wasn't, and David tells him that Callum is not coming back – ever.

The doctor comes into Sarah's room and tells her they got the test results back. She's as healthy as a horse, and so is the baby! Sarah is shocked. "What did you say?" she asks. The doctor says she thought she knew - Sarah is about 4 months pregnant!

Anne Logan

It's a bit worrying that during the whole of Sarah's stay in hospital, the dressing on her head wound wasn't changed once. However, we begin with her wide awake first thing in the morning and refusing to eat the hospital food. Not because it's hospital food but because she's been lying awake, shocked at the news that she's pregnant. She asks the nurse not to mention the pregnancy to any of her visitors. The nurse says they'll send her for a scan later.

Audrey arrives at Gail's and asks after Sarah. Gail says she's more shaken up than anything. Sarah had been drinking and was with David when she lost her balance and fell in front of Tim's van, she says. Audrey says they need to get a move on to visit Sarah because David's already gone off to the hospital and Nessa's looking after the salon. Kylie hears this and takes off for the hospital without waiting for Gail. She says she has to go because she's got a client at 11.

As Johnnie, Kate and Sally walk towards the factory, Sally hears the Connors mention they're going to lunch at the bistro. At first I thought her eyes lit up because she expected to be included but this wasn't right, as we'll find out.

Craig and Caitlin discuss parents. She mentions that her dad is away tonight and suggests Craig comes round so they can finish what they started before they were interrupted. She goes off to her own school, leaving Craig looking totally panicked.

Nick's been out to get Carla a surprise engagement breakfast, which seems to consist of pastries and coffee. Apparently he can't work her complicated coffee machine, which is a bit of a surprise considering he runs a bar/restaurant where they have their own complicated coffee machine. Carla reminds him he hasn't yet bought her a ring and asks when he wants to tell people, suggesting he might like to keep it a secret for a while. Nick nominates today to reveal it.

Sophie talks to Michael about his award nomination and he changes the subject by asking how Tim is after hitting Sarah. Eileen points out that this just shows how kind and thoughtful he is.

Sarah wakes up to find David by her bed. He apologises to her. Kylie, at the door, demands to know what he's sorry for. He says it's just for being on Sarah's case the last few days. He was just trying to get her home when they argued. Tim arrives with grapes of all colours and Sarah tells him it was not his fault that some crazy drunk was standing in the middle of the road. Kylie gets a text from Nessa (it always amazes me in Soaps that no matter how little characters have had to do with each other, they all always have each other's phone numbers) and says she has to go. David says he won't be long behind her.

Sean pops out of the factory looking very dull and tells Sophie he wishes he could go out and do something mad for a change. They discuss the possibility of doing just that, confirming it when Todd and Billy pass by. Sean goes off to Dev's for some chocolate and Sally comes out of the factory. She suggests to Sophie that since the bistro has a special offer on (really? They need to do that in the run-up to Christmas?), how about they have lunch there?

Johnnie check the Gazette and sees the picture taken at last night's event. Carla arrives late but says she thinks she's entitled to be late the morning after getting engaged.

Gail, Bethany and Audrey visit Sarah. Gail's surprised Sarah's not coming home but Sarah explains her blood pressure was a bit high so she's staying in hospital until that is sorted out. Todd and Billy arrive. Gail and Billy go off to get some hot drinks and on the way, Billy says the visit is all part of his job. "And when you've been a bit concerned about someone anyway . . ." He realises he's said too much and Gail pounces, demanding details of what's been worrying him. He just says Sarah's been a bit volatile lately. "Now I'm really worried," says Gail.

Kate is in the bistro when Sally and Sophie bowl in. Sally's asking Sophie about Kevin's plans to expand and Sophie mentions they're waiting on the planning permission. This is a big surprise to me. Coronation Street plans and real estate deals are usually completed within a fortnight! Sally makes conversation with Kate, whether Kate wants it or not, and somehow manages to suggest she go along with Sean and Sophie on their mad night out.

Gail tells Sarah that Billy's been worried about her. She checks that the accident was an accident - that she wouldn't deliberately try to harm herself. Sarah insists that it was just because she'd been drinking that she offloaded on Billy. She says she'd never try to kill herself. She says she'd always tell Gail if there was anything bothering her.

Eileen's thinking about buying a new outfit for the awards ceremony. And when Nick stops to congratulate Michael and mentions that the awards ceremony will be at the bistro she makes up her mind that she will need a new outfit.

Craig's sitting eating chips on his own when Fay comes over to ask him what's wrong. He's reluctant to say but she pushes until he reveals that Caitlin wants them to . . . "you know. . . "And you don't?" asks Fay.

Nick and Carla call in on Gail but it takes a while for them to get through to her that they haven't just come to ask after Sarah and talk about the weather. They reveal their own news. Bethany is thrilled (though less so when she finds out the less-than-romantic surroundings and details) but Gail looks as if her face has suddenly been botoxed. With a fixed smile she says she's sure that if Carla saw a chance to nail Nick then she'd grab it with both hands.

In the pub, Sophie and Tim chat with a morose Michael and Tim offers to buy him a drink. Michael decides he needs a whisky.

In the bistro, Johnnie and Aidan hear that Gail wasn't exactly offering Carla a balloons and bunting welcome to the family. Nick points out that he could marry Royalty and Gail would still have a problem with it. Aidan goes off somewhere and Johnnie talks to Nick about Carla. He says she's not had the best start in life and deserves some happiness.

Back at the Rovers, Sean chats with Sophie and Kate. He's waiting for Michelle to arrive so he can finish his shift. But when Michelle arrives, Carla asks for a word in the back.

In the back room, Carla tells Michelle that Gail wasn't very happy with the engagement news and this got her worrying - did Nick just say yes because he felt he had to? Michelle thinks Carla's trying to invent problems where there aren't any.

Sarah sees the ultrasound picture of her baby on the screen.

Gail talks to David and Kylie, mentioning she's worried Sarah might have stepped in front of the van deliberately. "She tripped!" insists David. Kylie looks panicked. When Gail's not there, David tells Kylie had to drag Sarah away from Billy because she was about to tell him everything. Kylie suggests David would do anything to stop Sarah talking. Kylie asks if he pushed Sarah in front of the van. "Are you really suggesting I'd do something like that?" David asks.

The end.
Margaret Carr

Good evening. I should not be doing this update. I should be in India on holiday. Sadly like Cumbria, Chennai is flooded and the airport closed, so our excursion was canceled. A replacement holiday has been booked in Thailand and so will not be here next week.

This is episode 8787 and it was written by Martin Allen. It was directed by Ian Bevitt. Copyright remains the property of ITV to whom many thanks.

Action commences at the Platt residence with David and Kylie - the latter is accusing the former of causing Sarah to have the accident and not believing him because he once pushed Gail downstairs. He keeps saying she is a liability and that something drastic needed doing. David is clear that he did not mean killing Sarah. They argue. Does she really think he could do something like this? She does not answer and he takes it that she does. Is it all over the Platt family again?

Michelle and Carla are in the back room of the Rovers where the former is telling the latter that she is not doomed to keep making the same mistakes. Carla is not so sure. 'Chelle says she has made a big decision and it is simply sinking in. 'Chelle says it is a Carla panic and Nick is not Peter and is as steady as a rock. He is too sensible to be pushed into anything. Carla agrees to talk it through with Nick.

Gail meets Billy in the Street and she says he was worrying without need. Sarah denied she would do anything stupid because of Bethany. And Gail had not mentioned him at all. Gail apologises for over-reacting. Billy thanks her. They see Michael at the end of the Street and Gail wanders in his direction as he does not look happy. Gail asks Michael if he should be eating a burger and he tells her he is fed up being told what he can and cannot do. Then she asks if he has been drinking! He snaps at her. She knows him too well and she knows there must be something wrong. He tells her about the Good Samaritan Award nomination - by the woman in Station Road and he tells Gail that he burgled the house in Station Road. He recounts the story so far. And now Eileen is buying an outfit for the awards ceremony and Michael feels a fraud. Gail suggests telling Eileen the truth.

In the Rovers the new glammed up Sophie is getting on very well with Kate. They are chatting about annoying sayings. Next to them are Billy and Sean. Kate apologises for the fuss over the parked cars outside the garage. Anyway the two gay girls on the Street are now good friends. Tim and Sal come in and the latter is pleased to see the friendship! The wicked matchmaker. Sean, Billy, Sophie and Kate head off into town for a night out.

In the Bistro Johnny is telling Aidan he cannot take a client for granted. Gail spots the photo of Johnny in the paper. Carla comes in looking for Nick but Gail does not know where he is. Carla orders a glass of red.

Ohhhh young love. Faye is trying to sort out Craig's love life. He reckons everyone on the planet is having sex. Craig is just not ready for sex. Craig's phone rings. He rejects the call from Caitlin and texts her to tell her that he is not well. Bad idea.

In the Bistro Gail takes a phone call (remember Andy and Steph are away) and Pointedly changes the audio track to Adele "Make you feel my love". Carla downs the wine and as she leaves she meets Nick coming the other way. Bethany, 'Chelle and Audrey follow him in. Johnny and Aidan are the other side of Carla and Gail is behind the bar. Nick is saying he wants to make sure this happens so is doing it in public; he descends to one knee. And asks Carla to take the ring to become engaged. Eventually she says yes and great joy ensues all round, except behind the bar where there is a very sour expression on Gail's face. Johnny approves and all the girls like the ring.

Eileen is searching online for a dress. (Hint try crazyclearance.co.uk). Michael comes in and she asks if he has been drinking! He is not amused! She goes to put the kettle on and he follows her into the kitchen as he has to tell her something. And she will not like it as he has been doing a lot of thinking. From her face we can tell that she thinks she is about to be dumped - but it is not that serious - he is simply refusing to attend the award ceremony and throws the invitation into the bin. She is quite relieved and he feels better already.

Gail tells Audrey what a bad idea the engagement is - they have only been going out two minutes. Audrey says they are not spring chickens. Gail continues to bad mouth Carla and her track record. Audrey points out that neither of them can brag about that! Audrey says they want to make it work and perhaps she could try and be happy for Nick for once? Gail is pensive.

The row between David and Kylie continues. Are we heading towards a permanent departure for Kylie? Anyway the mobile rings and David having been apprised of the engagement heads off to the Bistro to show willing leaving Kylie to babysit because she probably does not think they would be safe with David.

After the break we rejoin Sarah in the hospital and a nurse advises she is staying another night in her single room (amazing that) because they cannot be too careful with head injuries. Sarah is looking at the scan and no she does not know the sex. A copy for the father perhaps - Sarah says she will not be telling him.

Back at the Bistro Audrey is asking about the honeymoon! Warm, quiet, no mobile, no wifi says Carla but Nick does not want to be cut off. Row number one? Carla makes it clear who is in charge! David arrives and congratulates them. Gail asks for a word with the happy couple. Gail wants to apologise if she has seemed less than enthusiastic about the engagement. She has been completely out of order and she is sorry. She says she has been mean spirited and she does not even know why she does it. So she would like to welcome Carla to the family and she hopes they will both be happy for many years to come. Carla thanks her. Gail tells them to enjoy the rest of the evening. Nick is stunned and Audrey tells Gail that was a lovely thing to do. Gail responds that she even managed to keep a straight face.

Back to Faye and Craig who relates what Caitlin actually said about finishing what they had started. Which was having a kiss. Knock at the door - of course it is Caitlin who believing he was ill has come to visit him. She comes in, sees Faye, turns on her heel and goes. Faye tells Craig to follow her. After a few exchanges they finally talk about it - Caitlin wants to "finish" the play list and she does not want sex yet and nor does Craig. Misunderstanding resolved. And she wants some of the pizza he had been eating with Faye.

David returns home. He tells Kylie it was OK and turns the TV on. Kylie apologises but David is not listening. He says forget it - but she knows he does not mean it. They argue. David stomps off.

Bethany visits Sarah in the hospital. Bethany relates the news of the engagement. Bethany is wondering if Carla is pregnant to explain it all being so sudden, although she is only trying to get some more drama out of it. Bethany reckons it will bring them all closer together. A nice family wedding will help put all the Callum nastiness behind them.

Sean, Billy, Sophie and Kate fall out a can having returned from their night out. Sal and Tim emerge from the Rovers to spot the good humour banter going on. The two girls go into the Rovers and Tim says to Sal that Kate is engaged. Sal just wants Sophie to be happy, losing Maddie has hit her hard and she needs friends to have some fun. Tim concurs so long as Sal knows what she is doing.

Eileen goes to the bin and extracts the letter and straightens it out. Sean and Billy come in - the latter wants to borrow a DVD. Sean has a good night - but he is not so sure about Eileen who appears he has a nose out of joint. He goes and she rereads the rescued invitation.

Nick and Carla are walking home - an amazing 24 hours. Nick asks where they are going to live. Carla says that is easy - they keep one and keep the other one for when they fall out. Carla "falls" off her heels and I don't think it was drink related - and she admits to her other wobble. She thought he was having second thoughts - so she did too when she could not find him. She admits she is not the easiest of women. He tells her to stop worrying and kisses her. He assures her that nothing can go wrong and he picks her up and swings her around.

In a dark room someone is reading the newspaper with a picture of Johnny Connor at the trade event. It becomes clear we are in a jail as a prison officer walks along a corridor. He checks a cell and inside we see Tina's killer and brother of Carla - Rob Donovan - looking very angry back through the glass panel in the door.

Roll credits.

I shall return in time for the mayhem on Christmas Day.

Regards

K Richard Whitbread

Written by Julie Jones Directed by Nickie Lister

Robert has made Amy's morning eggs shaped in some sort of unusual form and it impresses her greatly. She now want them in different shapes every day. She's busy with her tablet, making up a Christmas wish list full of bling and diamonds, from the sounds of it. Tracy enters with a new men's hair product she's found, something that promises sexy just out of bed hair. (Not sure about you, but bed head isn't particularly sexy). Robert promises it's not his and he isn't trying to impress Leanne. Amy reveals that Nessa bought it for Ken's impressive head of hair, which looks pretty good but needs a bit of jhooshing. Ah. Tracy has nothing good to say about Nessa.

David startles Kylie who's sitting at the kitchen table. He's still making digs at her for accusing him of trying to kill Sarah even though she insists she's apologized. Gail witters on about hearty soups, while sitting on the sofa behind them. She's going to make Sarah a chowder for when she comes out of hospital. Gail plans to invite Sarah to recover at Platt Towers, and when Kylie reminds her there's no room, says that Sarah can share with her. Um. Don't think that would work. David and Kylie both agree that Sarah will be more comfortable in her own bed at Nick's. Gail wants to keep an eye on her.

Tracy chivies Amy along. The post has arrived and one of the envelopes has Tracy stopped in her tracks. Clearly whoever picked it up off the floor when it was delivered didn't look at all of the mail. Tracy takes it out into the kitchen and opens one letter. It's a visiting order from the prison from Rob, who wants to see her! She looks confused and brings the rest of the mail back to the living are, deep in thought. Amy tells Tracy she's made a list and will text it to her but Tracy advises Amy to send it to Father Christmas. Amy rolls her eyes, surely her mother realizes she knows the score by now, right?

Liz is putting the finishing touches on her Christmas tree and wishing she could scale it down to a minimalist look, classy. Anna and Erica assess the almost end result, which is a very busily decorated tree. Erica finds an ornament Steve made when he was little and is instructed to put that on the tree too. Anna muses that she loves traditions like that. Anna tells Liz their holiday will be quiet, though she's upset at missing Miley's first Christmas. The three women hold forth on being young-ish, free and single, happy as they are. Who needs men?! all of them do agree that they'd all quite like one, anyway.

Robert comes out of the Bistro and sees Tracy gazing at the visiting order. She pretends it's nothing and says she's not really feeling well. He suggests a lie down with him coming over later to make her a toddy but she wants just the two of them to go out later for their tea. He's amused that she's being romantic and accepts the date.

Sarah is home from hospital with Gail. Bethany runs over to greet her. Gail's worried at Sarah looking so peaky and Sarah is definitely not herself, though we know why. Bethany has skived school to be with her mum and Sarah isn't too happy about it. In the end, she tells both of them not to fuss so much. She turns to go inside.

David whispers to Kylie that he's angry Gail has moved Sarah back in. He hands Yasmeen a cup of tea as she's sat in the stylist's chair. Yasmeen then recalls how she was quite a looker as a teen with long hair like a goddess. Nessa sees a customer out the door as Rita arrives. Nessa tells them that she and Ken are having Cathy and Roy for dinner and she's going to nip out. Audrey tries to stop her as they're very busy and she's got someone coming in but Nessa insists it's a personal emergency and dashes out. Audrey admits to Rita more or less, that she's happy to see the back of her in some ways.

Sophie tells Tim and Sally that they have planning permission to make the changes to the arches. Sally's chuffed for them and suggests they need to change the sign to reflect the family involvement. Her idea is Webster and Daughter, but I like Sophie's choice of "Sophie Webster...and Dad" Billy comes along with Kate clutching his arm. Sally jokes about seeing Kate coming home after they all went into town the other night. They had gone to Canal Street apparently. Tim jokes that he's always got gay blokes after him due to his come-to-bed eyes, wiggling his eyebrows at Billy for agreement. Billy feels a tad awkward. Kate invites Sophie to the Bistro after work for a drink with she and Billy but Sophie decides to miss it this time as she's not sure when she's off work. Everyone leaves, though Sally praises Kate highly before heading into the factory.

Leanne complains to Robert about a customer who's been very demanding. She tells Robert the counseling didn't go well last time and he's refusing to go again. Leanne doesn't know how to get him to go and asks Robert to have a word with him. Robert agrees.

Rob Donovan's back and is primping in the mirror. His cell mate jokes about a hot date. Rob surprises him by saying he does have one, actually. He says his ex, Tracy is coming, he hopes. He's not complimentary about Tracy or Carla. It's time he made them pay, he utters.

Todd and Tracy have a brew in the shop. The two of them moan about Christmas. Turns out Tracy's missing her mother but that's not all. Rob, too. He was the love of her life. Todd points out she says that about all her men. She insists she's over him, not very convincingly, and doesn't look impressed when Todd reminds her she's the one that put him in prison.

Yasmeen is done and heading out the door as Nessa returns. Rita is still in the stylist's chair. It must take quite awhile to rebuild that head of hair into its usual shape. Nessa won't say what her emergency was. Kylie guesses sexy undies. Nessa promises to reveal all later.

Simon is sat in a chair in the Bistro, arms folded and looking defiant. Robert brings over soft drinks and asks how things are going. Simon tells him he's not going. Robert uses reverse psychology, allowing that men never like to talk about how they feel. He sits down and tells him that the counselor is probably unshockable. He's very good. He asks Simon if he wants to be this same person a year from now or does he want to change and move on. He suggests Simon try 6 sessions and if it's still not working, then give it up. Simon grunts "ok", reluctant to be seen agreeing with a grownup, I think, but knowing it all makes sense. Simon asks if Robert will go with him today. Robert agrees, but that means he has to cancel his date with Tracy and he texts her, lying that he's busy at work. For a bloke that insists everyone tell the truth all the time, he's digging himself into a big hole here and probably waving a red rag at a bull at the same time.

Sarah is settled on the sofa. Her mother and her daughter both can tell something else is on Sarah's mind. She's too quiet. Gail sends Bethany to do the washing up and she joins Sarah on the sofa. A very relieved Mum is just glad things turned out ok. But when she tells Sarah she'll always be her baby, Sarah gets a bit tearful. Gail gathers her up for a hug. Sarah decides to get a shower and do a couple of hours at work and then go back to Nick's to sleep in her own bed. Gail objects but is overruled. Sarah insists she's only bruised a bit and can work.

Tracy comes out of the shop, has a bit of banter with Todd and then sees Robert's message on her phone. Her face falls. She looks up the street and sees Robert and Leanne getting into a taxi.

Rita has lingered in the salon and she and Audrey settle in with a nice cup of tea. Audrey is enjoying being alone, no blathering customers, spending time with a friend. She admits that Nessa is getting on her nerves and she's only putting up with her for Ken's sake. Apparently, Cathy told Audrey that Nessa's normal plan of action when she gets a crush is to go in with all guns blazing but then she goes off them as quick as the crush appeared. Rita and Audrey both disapprove and worry for Ken. It's the last thing he needs. Audrey could kick herself for pussyfooting and missing her chance.

Sally comes to see Sophie and invites her to join she and Tim in the Bistro. Sophie's reluctant but Sally insists, saying she doesn't get to spend quality time with her daughter these days.

David sees Sarah coming out of the house on her way to work. She insists she's fine and when he reminds her that the last time she said that, she got hammered and ended up under a van. He's told to Do One.

In the pub, Anna and Liz natter about having down time. Liz doesn't get much of it and has all that body maintenance to do when she does get a spare moment. Anna teases that she's high maintenance. Sarah comes in, to Liz's surprise and concern. Sarah is fine and goes back to put the kettle on. Erica arrives with a flyer advertising a Singles' Night. Liz is skeptical but Anna seems interested. The two of them persuade Liz to go but Anna tries to back out and is not allowed. She's coming and Liz will lend her something to wear if need be. Sarah's got the attitude that singles nights are a bit sad with loser blokes but Liz tactfully explains that Sarah's too young to understand.

Sally criticizes Sophie's top as too boring. She then jumps up when Billy and Kate arrive and pulls Billy aside to talk to him about "marital problems", wanting advice. Billy wants to defer a talk on that top until later in the week, he's off duty at the moment. We all know we can't persuade Hurricane Sally off her intended course, which is to divert Billy from Kate so that Kate and Sophie can spend time together and that's just what happens.

It's visiting hour at the prison. A bit late in the day for it, I would have thought. Rob enters and sees Tracy at a table, waiting. He smiles at her. He greets her. She doesn't look all that happy, more confused than anything.

Tvor

Written by Julie Jones and directed by Nickie Lister

Tracy sits down opposite Rob and tries to come to terms with seeing him again after all this time. She admits she was shocked when she got the visiting order and reminds Rob he cut her off. She wants to know why he suddenly wants to see her again. He says it's harder than he thought it would be and the longer it goes on the more he misses her. Tracy looks like she believes him.

Ken's preparing for his dinner party. With a vegetarian mezze on the menu, Amy's relieved she'll be going round to her friend's for tea. Nessa, on the other hand, is quite happy to tuck into Ken's homemade hummus. She sends Amy off to set the table so she can give a present to Ken. He pulls a rather pained expression when he looks inside the bag that has come from a trendy boutique in the precinct.

Anna is in the Rovers getting ready to go to the singles' night with Erica. This consists of downing several glasses of wine in quick succession. Eva comes over with a top that Liz is lending to Anna. It's certainly going to help her to sparkle; Eva describes it as "blingtastic".

Roy and Cathy have arrived for dinner. Nessa calls to Ken to come in – he's been upstairs donning her present. As Amy puts it when she sees her grandfather's new jeans, Justin Bieber wore a pair like that with a see-through string vest and a baseball cap. Nessa seems oblivious to Ken's embarrassment – in fact she can't wait for him to model his new outfit in the Rovers later.

Back at the prison Rob asks Tracy if she's missed him. "What do you think?" she asks and reminds him they were meant to be married. She starts to get upset and makes to leave but Rob begs her not to go. She asks what he wants from her. Rob says she must remember what it's like to be locked up, the feeling of boredom and nothing to live for. Tracy appears to be softening and agrees to stay for a bit longer.

In the Bistro Sally looks as pleased as punch as she watches Sophie and Kate chatting over by the bar. But the moment Billy leaves, Sophie comes across to have words with her mother – she knows exactly what Sally's been up to and she's not best pleased. Even poor Tim misses out on his steak dinner because, now that her plan's backfired, Sally announces they're going home for a cheese and tomato toastie instead.

The wine's going to Anna's head and what with that and Liz's sparkly top she feels ready for the singles night. But she wonders why Erica's going, given that one wink of encouragement and Dev would be all hers. Erica says she wouldn't want to go there but Liz tells her she could do a lot worse.

Everyone's complimenting Ken on his cooking but Cathy can't resist pointing out that her sister's changed her tune. Apparently Nessa used to say that it wasn't a proper meal if it hadn't got any meat. Nessa claims she's now a veggie. Cathy goes out to the kitchen with her and tries to put her straight about the way she's behaving with Ken. Ken and Roy sit in embarrassed silence as they can hear every word. Cathy tells Nessa the jeans are far too young for Ken and says he's far too mice a person to say anything himself. Ken turns up the music in an attempt to drown out the argument.

In the Rovers, Eva, Sean, Todd and Audrey are chatting about Christmas while Sarah works behind the bar carrying boxes. Audrey comments she shouldn't even be working. Sarah winces in pain and says she's probably right – she'll go home to lie down. But before she leaves we see Todd watching as Sarah helps herself to a packet of snacks.

Back at the prison Tracy and Rob both looking like they been crying. They were talking about Deirdre and now Rob is asking how Amy is after the fire. He says it's at moments like that he wishes he was there for her. Rob starts to look angry as he asks about Carla. He says he read something in the paper about her going into business with Aidan and Johnny Connor and asks how it came about. Tracy says if he's so desperate to find out about Carla why doesn't he ask her to come in. Rob's response is that she can rot in hell as far as he's concerned. "So you really don't blame me, then?" asks Tracy. Rob says he couldn't possibly bear a grudge against her …

Leanne and Simon are coming home from the counseling session. We gather it didn't go too well because when Leanne suggests she could sit outside in the waiting room next time Simon replies that there isn't going to be a next time.

Nearby Sarah is sitting on the bench in the street, eating her snacks. Todd comes along, puts his jacket round her shoulders and asks her to tell him what's wrong. He gets her talking about when they used to live together and reminds her about how she used to have a craving for Scampy Fries when she was pregnant. Sarah looks down at the packet of Scampy Fries she's holding. At first she denies it but Todd has worked out what Sarah's problem is. He asks who the father is. "Please don't tell me it's Callum," says Todd. Sarah's silence is all the answer he needs.

In the prison it seems that Rob has worked his magic on Tracy. He tells her he still loves her and asks if she'll come to see him again. She doesn't reply so Rob says if she's met someone else he'll quite understand. Tracy says it's not that. She claims that she's still in shock and needs a bit more time to think. Rob tells Tracy it's been amazing seeing her and it feels like they've never been apart. After Tracy leaves we see Rob smirking to himself.

Back at home Sally is trying the direct approach with Sophie. She's convinced that she and Kate would make a great couple. Sophie points out that first of all Kate is getting married to Caz and secondly it's too soon after Maddie – she's not ready for another relationship yet. Sally says she just wants her to be happy. Tim says what would make him happy is a nice fat, juicy steak which, earns him the sharp end of Sally's tongue.

Nessa, Ken, Roy and Cathy arrive in the Rovers where everyone comments on Ken's new jeans. Eva says he'll be out clubbing next so Ken points out they were a gift. Sean jokes that it was obviously from someone who doesn't know him too well. Nessa looks most put out. She then overhears Ken saying that he does feel ridiculous in them and runs out of the pub. Audrey smiles to herself but Ken looks concerned.

Outside on the bench Sarah and Todd are still talking. She gets Todd to promise he won't tell anyone. He promises and then says he assumes she hasn't told Callum. Sarah says trust her, he'll never find out. She adds that Todd is the only person she's told and she'd like to keep it that way. He points out that if she's 20 weeks gone she'll have to make a decision about a termination. But Sarah hasn't decided and she doesn't know what she's going to do.

Ken is talking to Nessa on the other side of the street. She says she wasn't trying to change him, she thinks he's lovely just the way he is but if he felt ridiculous in the jeans he only had to say. Ken explains that she was so pleased with her gift he didn't want to upset her. Nessa thinks this was such a kind thing to do he's gone up even higher in her estimation. Ken suggests they go back to his place and kisses Nessa just as Audrey comes out of the Rovers. Nessa suggests she could stay the night and Ken replies he'd like that. As they walk past Audrey arm in arm Nessa says that she hopes Ken cooks breakfast as well as he cooks dinner. Audrey looks as though she's about to cry.

In the Bistro Leanne thanks Robert for going with them today and sitting in the waiting room while she and Si had their counseling. Robert says he was pleased to be there for them and gives Leanne a big hug just as Tracy walks through the door. But strangely for Tracy she doesn't seem that bothered and simply asks them to bring her over a large glass of wine. Leanne says to Robert that 'nice Tracy' bothers her more than 'nasty Tracy'.

Back at home Ken tells Nessa what a joy she is to have around as she's such an upbeat person. She replies that Deirdre's gone but Ken's still here and he deserves to live life to the full. As if to prove a point, she leans down and kisses him.

Robert takes Tracy's wine over to her. He apologises for canceling their date and says she looked gorgeous when she went out. He asks her not to bite his head off but he has a confession to make. He admits he lied earlier and that he went to the counselor with Leanne and Simon. Tracy responds by telling him he's a decent bloke. He asks if she got up to anything special. Tracy says no, nothing special. "I do really love you, you know," she adds as she gives him a hug.

Karen

Ken comes down to find Nessa bustling about in the kitchen, telling him he's earned a good breakfast, despite his protests that a just a cup of tea will be fine. Then Tracy comes down and demands to know what Nessa is doing there, and is horrified when she realises that Nessa must have stayed the night and is also wearing her dressing gown! Ken seems extremely embarrassed and points out that Tracy hasn't worn it for years. "How could you?" cries Tracy. Ken tells her that there had to be a first time.

Yasmeen goes into the cafe and asks Roy if she can borrow a couple of cake trays for a cup cake making class she's running at the community centre. Sarah and Bethany are in the cafe, Bethany has bunked off school and is pleading with Sarah to go shopping with her. Todd comes in and asks if he can have a word with Sarah, but she acts like a frightened rabbit and says that she and Bethany have to go and catch the bus.

In the salon, Nessa is all chirpy and cheerful and tells Audrey and Anna, with a cheeky wink, that the reason for her good mood is down to Ken.

Michelle is in the office at the factory with Carla and Nick, trying to sort out the arrangements for the engagement party. Then Johnny comes in with a handful of post. He sits down and starts to open it, and finds a visiting order from the prison.

Nessa comes into the cafe and, when asked what she would like, says that she'll have anything that doesn't involve the suffering of an animal. Cathy points out that Ken isn't actually there, watching her now. Then she notices that Nessa is still wearing the same clothes that she had on yesterday, and puts two and two together. Nessa tells her that she and Ken connect on so many levels, both spiritually and physically, but wishes his family were a bit more accepting. Cathy agrees that Tracy will never be happy about the two of them. Roy remarks that there is someone else in the house with a much stronger influence over Ken.

Johnny is at the bar in the bistro, he tells Nick that Rob has sent him a visiting order, and shows him the piece of paper.

Amy has come home for lunch, and is chatting to her granddad when Nessa bursts in. She tells them she's had a marvelous idea, and suggests they all go to the Christmas market in town after school. Ken cries off, saying it's too busy and commercialised for his liking, but Amy is keen to go, telling Nessa, pointedly, that Grandma Deirdre took her once and bought her lots of stuff.

Tracy goes into the Rovers to ask for change, but Liz refuses and tells her to go. As Tracy stamps off, Liz tells Mary that Tracy has a cheek, and there is no excuse for people like her. "You're right," says Mary, but looks somewhat guilty. Just then Brendan comes in, but Mary looks upset. He tells her his car had a flat tyre, and asks what's wrong. "Nothing," says Mary, "I'm fine!" But she looks far from fine.

Back in the bistro, Nick and Johnny are discussing the visiting order. Johnny says he hasn't seen Rob for years, and wonders if he should tell Carla about it. Nick says that he should, but Johnny thinks that she should be able to enjoy her engagement party without the worry of it. Just then Carla comes in, and Johnny hastily stuffs the piece of paper into his pocket. Carla however, has seen this and asks about it. Johnny tries to tell her it's nothing, a surprise for the party, but Nick tells him to show her. He pulls out the paper and Carla picks it up and looks at it.

Carla is puzzled as to why Rob wants to see Johnny, who says he hasn't seen Rob since he was a scrawny kid. He tells Carla he won't go if she'd rather he didn't. She tells him it's his decision, but then concedes that the only way to find out what Rob wants is for Johnny to go and see him.

In the Rovers, Mary tells Brendan she's not cut out to be a mistress. He says they haven't done anything wrong, she's a beautiful young woman who has turned his life upside down, and he can't help that. He thought she understood his situation, and she says she thought she did, but perhaps it's all just a pipe dream. He says that he won't be with his wife forever, he's just waiting for the right time and then they can be together properly.

Tracy comes in and asks to see Robert. She starts getting all stroppy with Carla until she's interrupted by Robert who tries to stop her. Tracy then storms out in a huff.

Sarah and Bethany get off the bus carrying lots of shopping bags. Yasmeen asks if they'd like to round off their day with a spot of cupcake making, but they're not keen.

Robert chases Tracy across the Street to her front door. She tells him that sometimes a bit of support wouldn't go amiss. He tells her he doesn't want to get involved in her petty squabbles with everyone in the Street, which annoys her even more and she goes in and slams the door in his face.

Audrey comes out of the salon and asks Bethany why she's not at school. Bethany says it was an educational trip – economics, culture and fashion! They laugh, and Audrey says it's nice to see them happy together after the year with 'you-know-who', which brings Sarah's mood down, somewhat. Audrey goes off and Sarah sends Bethany to take the shopping home, telling her she has to go and do something.

Audrey has gone into the cafe where she moans to Roy and Cathy about being rushed off her feet, which hasn't been helped by the sudden disappearance of Nessa, who went off saying she had to meet Amy from school, and talking about important bonding. Roy starts to say that he might have been responsible, but behind him Cathy shakes her head and gestures for him to be quiet.

Sarah has gone to see Todd, and tells him she just can't have Callum's baby, it's just not an option. She starts to get really upset and he hugs her, telling her he's there for her.

Nessa and a rather sulky Amy arrive back at Ken's. Amy isn't happy because they've come back early, and Grandma Deirdre bought her more when she took her. Ken tells her that's extremely rude, and orders her to say thank you, which she does, but does not sound at all sincere. When Ken goes off to make Nessa a cuppa, Amy quietly tells her, in a rather threatening way, that she knows Nessa really likes her granddad and she hopes she's not going to hurt him, otherwise she won't be responsible for her actions.

Nick arrives home to find Carla sitting in front of the fire with a glass of wine, but she's far from relaxed. She's still trying to work out why Rob has asked to see Johnny. Nick tells her it's probably nothing, but Carla is sure it'll be something. She knows Rob, he doesn't do anything without a reason!

Anne Logan

Michelle and Carla are in the cafe discussing Rob's request for Johnnie to visit him. Michelle wonders whether he's trying to get to Carla through Johnnie. Nick comes in and asks about arrangements for tonight's engagement party.

Sarah's on the phone in Gail's house when Kylie comes in. Kylie wants to know who she was on the phone to and accuses Sarah of trying to act normal. David arrives home with a cucumber and Kylie snaps at him because she's also bought a cucumber. Sarah makes her excuses and leaves and Kylie tells David about the mysterious phone call.

Rita and Norris discuss the fact that Mary's off to her "crackpot convention," although when Mary comes in that's not how they refer to it. Apparently the guest speaker is going to be someone who has photographed the Yeti and has fur samples.

Michelle's back home eating a bowl of cereal. No, I'm not sure why she didn't have breakfast when she was Roy's. Aidan comes in looking for his phone and Michelle tells him Liz is upstairs re-watching the Errol Flynn Robin Hood film.

In the cafe, we learn that Bethany's taking German at school, which Tracy thinks is terrible. Ken and Nessa are at a table discussing marriage and divorce. As Roy serves them, Nessa asks if he's ever been divorced. He has but he refuses to give any details because he says some things are best forgotten. Tracy smirks behind him. Nessa asks Ken if he knew about this and he says he does, but Roy's right about it being best forgotten. Nessa is most put out not to have this bit of gossip. Tracy tells her Roy's ex wife was a real fox. Audrey arrives and asks Nessa if she's thinking of popping back to the salon any time soon. She's got a client due. Nessa disappoints Audrey by mentioning that she's going to the engagement party.

Brendan is on his phone when he arrives at the Kabin with a magazine delivery and Rita hears him calling someone "dear," asking what's for tea and saying he's going to the convention on his own. Rita goes out and makes polite conversation, letting him know that Mary is very excited about the convention.

Aidan arrives in the factory office and mentions that Liz is watching the Errol Flynn version of Robin Hood. This makes Johnnie look very thoughtful.

Mary rushes to answer the door, thinking Brendan is early, but it's just Rita. She tells Mary to sit down and breaks the news to her that she thinks Brendan is married. Mary's reaction is just, "Who told you?" and a shocked Rita realises Mary already knew. "What business is it of yours?" demands Mary. "You can see yourself out!"

Nessa's client leaves and all she does is complain about the client and how badly she tips. She realises it's her last appointment for the day and then tries to persuade David to do her hair for tonight. David's got the Renshaw twins coming so Rita agrees to do it instead.

Tracy chats on the phone to Rob and asks him to send next week's visiting order to the shop instead of the house, so Ken doesn't see it.

In his cell, Rob chats to his cellmate and tells him the "silly bint" Tracy still thinks he's in love with her. He says he's got another poor sap coming in this afternoon who's in for a very big surprise.

Mary invites Brendan in for a cup of tea. They talk about the convention and we hear there is going to be a Nessie expert there as well. Mary has a surprise for Brendan but won't tell him what it is.
"Stop being such a tease," he says.
"Stop being so nosy."
"Stop being so gorgeous."
"Stop being so married."
Whoops. Mary doesn't seem to have meant to let out that last comment.

Johnnie asks Carla if there's any message for Rob. Nope. He shows here the new shirt he's bought for tonight and she teases him about how green it is.

Sarah's in the pub, touching up her make-up at the bar with her handbag in front of her. Kylie comes in and Sarah asks he to watch her bag while she nips out the back. Kylie takes the opportunity to search it and discovers the address of the clinic. She rushes out.

Nessa has a new up-do, quite similar to Marge Simpson's. She doesn't like it. Audrey points out that she sat and looked in the mirror the whole time it was being done so she should have said something. The Renshaw twins think it's chic. Nessa accuses Audrey of trying to make a fool of her, which Audrey denies. She thinks it looks good.

Norris is grumpy that he's not been invited to the engagement party. In fact, he's so grumpy that when Nick comes in for curling ribbon, Norris tells him they've run out. "He only came in to rub my nose in it," Norris tells Rita when Nick has gone.

Ken tells Nessa he likes her hair-do. He thinks it looks elegant and chic. Nessa doesn't believe him and sulks. She claims that Audrey's vindictive.

Kylie's making up her face and sends David and Bethany off to the party and says she'll catch up. It's just an excuse to talk to Sarah, who is annoyed that Kylie left the handbag unattended on the bar. Kylie gets straight to the point. "Are you pregnant?"

Johnnie arrives to see Rob and tells him Carla is happy. Rob asks how the factory is - he knows about it because he saw the photo in the local paper. "Does she know, Uncle Johnnie?" Rob asks. Johnnie points out he was never Rob's uncle, nor Carla's. "No, how could you be?" asks Rob, "when you're her Dad."

Gasp.

The end of this episode.
Margaret Carr

Richard's away on holiday's so tonight, I'm covering for him.

Written by Simon Crowther Directed by Nickie Lister

Johnny is still sitting with Rob, a bit stunned but not giving anything away. Rob says his mother told him once when she was drunk, about a one night stand with Johnny in the back of a Vauxhall. Johnny's trying to bluff his way out of it, blaming it on Rob's mother's drinking and proclivity for sleeping around. He does admit he had a one night stand but insists Rob has no proof. He points out that Rob's mother was a deluded drunk and Rob agrees. Johnny realizes he's been set up. Rob verifies that he never really believed is mother's suggestion that Johnny was Carla's father but Johnny's flustered reaction has confirmed it after all. Johnny asks what he's going to do about it, *if* it's true. Rob leans in to tell him.

Sarah tells Kylie that whatever she thinks, it's none of her business. Kylie admits she found the address of a clinic in Sarah's bag and looked it up to find it was an abortion clinic. Sarah can't deny it and admits it's Callum's baby and she is booked for a termination next week. She tells Sarah she's only known since the accident and is quite far along, nearly so much that she would have to have the baby if she waits much longer. Kylie looks flummoxed and she's sympathetic. She hands Sarah the brush and tweezers Sarah had wanted to borrow earlier.

At the party, Michelle asks Carla who's giving her away at the wedding and offers to do it. Carla says fathers should do the duty not brothers or friends but she's not having her father anywhere near her, even if she knew where he was. (Funny, she never got sentimental about her father at her other weddings. I suppose that's because she wasn't in this particular storyline where she's about to discover who her father really is). David asks Gail to swap places with Kylie but Gail won't do it. She's only been there a short while. (Why doesn't David just go himself?)

Back to the prison, Johnny surmises that Rob is out of his mind. He's asks Johnny for 10,000 pounds or he'll tell Carla who will tell Aidan and Kate. Johnny is getting angry now and hisses at Rob that he's blowing this out of proportion, asking why he's doing this? Rob looks him in the eye and says it's because he's bored. That's his own fault, Johnny points out. Blackmail is a criminal offence but Rob is not repentant. He gives Johnny a week to think about it and reminds him that he can blow the secret out of the closet with one visiting order. Think about it. Rob leans back as Johnny stands up, cocky, joking that Johnny should have stayed out of the newspaper. No publicity is good publicity. Johnny gets the last point scored, though. When Rob sarcastically asks him to give his love to Tracy, Johnny takes great pleasure in telling Rob that she's shacked up with her ex-husband which is clearly a surprise to Rob, not in a good way. Johnny smiles and says he's off for a pint, "Enjoy the gruel".

Nessa is primping in front of the mirror. Ken tells her she looks beautiful but she's not happy with her new look, comparing it to something out of The Simpsons. Ken has trouble saying the right thing delicately even though he means well. He finally has her convinced, with a white lie or three, that she really does look nice and he really does think her hairdo is lovely, to go to the party when Amy comes downstairs, takes one look at Nessa, and snickers "Seriously????!!!". Nessa turns and runs away from the door.

Sarah has arrived at the party and accepts a glass of water from Carla, citing a headache. Over at the bar, Aidan is moaning that he couldn't find his pair of silk socks, his lucky socks. He hasn't seen them in weeks. Michelle overhears and looks disturbed as the people behind them talk about socks and toenail cutting. David tries again to get Gail to go home for a babysitting shift but she's not shifting, clearing enjoying the free bar.

Back at Number 1, Nessa is in Tracy's dressing gown. Ken insists he's not going alone, everyone wants them there. Nessa spits that Audrey didn't want them there as she's responsible for the mess in the first place (Nessa, you were sitting facing the mirror, didn't you see what was going on? And shouldn't a trained hairdresser be able to undo a do and fix it quickly?) Ken sighs and asks what she'd rather do. She suggests a takeaway. He agrees but looks dismayed.

At the Bistro, Michelle confirms with Sally that Aidan's missing socks. Carla calls for attention and thanks everyone for coming. Nick tells everyone that the wedding will be next year. Kylie's there now, so I guess David went home. Carla spies Johnny arriving and cuts the speeches short getting straight to the toast. She slips through the crowd to ask Johnny what happened with Rob. He lies that Rob had seen his picture in the paper and wanted to know about the business, possibly wanting money. Carla buys it. Michelle calls Steve to find out what happened to Aidan's socks, probably knowing exactly what happened to them. Nessa has texted Cathy to say they aren't coming to the party, along with a selfie to prove that her hair looks awful and Cathy agrees, showing Roy.

Mary and Brendan have left the convention and are talking about it in the car. They discuss the various speakers, with Brendan paraphrasing Oscar Wilde at one point "To be abducted by aliens once is misfortune. To be abducted by them twice looks like carelessness". Mary confesses her favourite part was when he put his hand on her knee. She also confesses, she used to be a skeptic. He sighs with relief, he used to be a skeptic, too!!! Something else in common! They lean in to a passionate kiss. Mary tells him he's the best thing that ever happened to her.

Back to the party, Michelle suggests Carla as Roy to give her away. Carla insists she doesn't need anyone to do that job. Eva joins Aidan at the bar and they flirt. Eva has found out about the socks and tells Aidan that Steve took them out of the laundry basket and took them to Spain with him.

Audrey comes back to Platt Towers to take over babysitting since Gail's having too much fun. Before he leaves, David asks her about Nessa's hair. Audrey confirms that she's an experienced hairdresser, she wouldn't do something like that by accident! She admits to feeling a little guilty because they never got to the party. After David leaves, Audrey says to herself, "And neither did Ken..."

Brendan has seen Mary to her door. She offers a quick drink in the pub but he has to get back. They're a bit awkward. She offers him some money for petrol and insists he take it. He hopes to see her very soon. She shyly says she'll be thinking of him. He says the same and they say goodnight with a kiss, leaving her looking thoroughly love struck.

Back at the party, Carla pulls Roy away from the door as he's leaving and, with Johnny standing behind her to overhear (coincidentally. Or not.) asks Roy to give her away at the wedding. She explains that her father's a joke and her brother's in prison. He tells her he'd be honoured. He and Cathy leave and she passes Johnny who's looking thoughtful.

Roy and Cathy wave to Ken who's been out with the dog. Ken goes inside as Roy and Cathy make their way to the cafe. Inside the house, Nessa has fallen asleep in a chair, tablet on her lap. Her hair is partly dismantled. Ken goes past her into the kitchen and she wakes up. He offers to make cocoa and assumes she's staying the night. She tells him she was trying to book them a snorkeling holiday. He laughs, assuming that was a joke. From the look on her face, though, it wasn't. She declines cocoa and asks for a cup of tea instead.

Emily decides to take herself to bed, likely already having had enough of Mary's enthusiastic descriptions of the convention and speakers. Norris takes himself off to the gents' leaving Rita there to have a word with Mary. Rita expresses concern and she warns Mary it will not end well. He won't leave his wife or back up his promises. Mary accuses Rita of being a jealous old lady. Rita calls her naive. She knows how this all goes and she just can't sit there and say nothing. Mary is angry and calls her sanctimonious and bitter, a deadly combination. She gathers her material and leaves.

At the party, Aidan decides to have it out with Michelle about the socks. (just buy yourself another pair, lad). Before he can, she teases him about flirting with Eva. He asks about the socks and she admits Steve couldn't resist. There's bad news, too. Aidan is horrified, Steve's put a hole in them! Johnny goes outside, observed by Liz who decides to join him. Outside, Johnny looks thoughtful. Liz tells him she likes the new green shirt. She's still puffing on the vapor e-cig and admits wanting to get away from the less than stellar conversation (she'd been chatting with Sarah). Johnny admits he's had one of them days and is about to tell her about the shock he's had when Carla pokes her head out and insists Johnny return inside.

Tvor

Written by Jayne Hollinson Directed by Audrey Cooke

Carla is having a healthy lunch at her desk. Kate pops in and they chat and then Johnny rushes in behind them. He asks after the post, wondering if there's been anything delivered that needed signing for. He pretends whatever it is is nothing important.

Some of the factory workers are having lunch in the pub and talking about the Christmas party at work on Friday. Izzy and Sinead are looking forward to it but Sean doesn't think it will be anything special. Todd comes in for a drink and a hotpot, greeting Sarah warmly. He confirms that the appointment is today and expresses a bit of concern that it's what she really wants to do. She says it is and mentions that Kylie found out as well. She also states this is the best thing for all concerned. Todd wonders if it really is and recalls how she was gutted when she lost their Billy even though she hated him. Doubt flashes over Sarah's face.

Erica tells Dev she's off to a singles night with Liz and Anna. Dev calls over to David and asks if Max is ready for the Nativity play. It turns out both Kylie and Mary are ironing costumes. Erica questions that, implying the two men are a bit sexist but both agree they're rubbish at ironing. Dev brags that his twins have the starring roles, Mary and Joseph. David counters with Max's promotion to chief innkeeper and they have an argument over who's child has the more important role based on the real life equivalent. Dev insists that Mary and Joseph were far more important than the innkeeper that provided a manger for them to stay in, countered by David throwing Dev's religion (Hindu) back at him in a desperate attempt at regaining lost ground until Erica metaphorically bangs their heads together for bickering like children.

Sean pops into the office to try to make a suggestion about the party but is cut short by a quick No from Carla. No, and no. Sean backs out and Liz takes his place at the office door. Eileen has taken a delivery at Streetcars intended for Johnny (who lives in the flat overhead), signed for it and Liz has brought it over. Kate and Carla are curious but Johnny snatches it from their hands rudely. Kate and Liz leave and Carla asks Johnny if he's telling the truth about Rob (though I don't know where that idea came from). He assures her he did and just wants everyone to leave him alone.

Out on the factory floor, Izzy asks Kate if she could ask Carla if they could have a DJ for the party. She agrees to think about it.

David takes a call from Gail who's stuck on the bus and might not make it for the play. Max doesn't mind, saying he's only got one line. David tries to make that one line seem very important and Kylie offers to get some sweets for after which delights Max.

Outside, Kylie sees Sarah walking past, on her way to the clinic. Kylie wants to come with her but can't. Sarah insists she's ok on her own. She gets on the bus as Anna gets off. Todd comes across the road, watching the bus pull away. He reveals that he knows about the baby, who the father is and he's concerned that Sarah's getting rid of the baby for her family's sake, not her own. His remark that it seems hypocritical that Kylie got to keep Callum's baby and Sarah doesn't strikes a chord with Kylie (but of course he doesn't know the real circumstances).

Erica and Anna meet on the street and look forward to the singles' night. Erica warns her not to start drinking ahead of time. Anna giggles and then shows Erica the new top she bought which Erica admires. Anna seems to be suffering a bout of nerves. Erica assures her she's gorgeous, the top is great and she'll be fine! She agrees to see Erica and Liz later.

Tim is skiving in the taxi office, scarfing biscuits. He asks Michael about the awards ceremony only to be informed that Michael isn't going. Tim doesn't understand why, free booze and nosh? Why miss that? Eileen is uncomfortable and decides to go buy more biscuits.

Liz seems to be backing out of the singles' night due to not having anyone available to work her shift. Erica chides her, they can't be the Three Musketeers with only two. Johnny knocks on the door and interrupts which sends Erica back to the shop. Johnny closes the door and apologizes for being short with her earlier. She wonders what's been up with him. He nearly told her something at the party and has been in a strange mood ever since. When asked if she can keep a secret, she smirks, of course, she's a barmaid, it's her job! He reveals that the delivery was a DNA kit and tells her his secret. Liz is stunned.

After the break, Sarah's arrived at the clinic. None of the other women in the waiting room look at each other.

Back to the pub, now, Johnny says Carla doesn't know and neither do his children. He's always suspected. He explains that Carla's mother put herself about and he really didn't want to know, being married at the time and all that. It's not something he's proud of. Why now? Liz asks. He says someone he doesn't really trust told him they found out and now Johnny wants proof one way or the other. Liz doesn't know how he's going to do the test without Carla finding out. Johnny plans on doing it secretly somehow.

Anna is not happy that Liz isn't going with them but says she's going out with Erica anyway. Kevin comes in, yawning, and tells them he's feeling his age. Erica scolds him. She's the same age and she's not sitting about, she's getting out and having fun and so should he! She takes off, leaving Anna to agree with her. It gives Kevin something to think about.

It's time for the school Nativity. Kylie and David are sitting with and excited Mary and Dev. The crucial scene is about to happen, with Joseph and Mary approaching the chief innkeeper. Max ad libs, says his scripted line then tells the hapless couple that they better not mind donkey poo because it gets everywhere! Dev and David bicker, Kylie scolds them then tells David she wouldn't be without Max. He calls her a big softie but we know where that's coming from. Kylie jumps up and whispers that she's going to get some air.

Kate pops into the office, asks Carla about a DJ, tells her she knows she's going to say no so she suggests Carla buy another crate of booze instead, that way everyone looks good. Carla agrees succinctly. Kate smiles and retreats. Carla is chewing gum and takes it out, laying it on a book. Aidan is disgusted but before Johnny can grab it to pretend to throw it out, Carla wraps it in a bit of paper and does it herself. (I don't think I've ever seen Carla chew gum before). She then licks an envelope and closes it. Johnny snatches that from her hand along with the rest of the post and offers to send it, he wants to get out for a bit anyway to stretch his legs. Carla has noticed Johnny is all twitchy. Outside the factory, Johnny reopens the envelope carefully, tearing off the flap. He pockets the post then puts the envelope flap in the plastic bag.

Tim pops into the cab office again but Michael snaps up the comfy chair before Tim can take possession again. Kevin nips in to order a cab for 6, and he's already dressed up quite smartly. Tim tries to invite himself along but Kevin says he's having dinner with some old mates. Tim complains that Kevin never comes out anymore so the two of them organize a pub crawl for Friday, with Michael inviting himself. Eileen interrupts, he can't go, they're going out to dinner. She pretends she'd already told him and he just forgot but he doesn't think that's the case. Kevin backs out, not wanting to get in the middle of a domestic. Michael tries to get out of the meal but when Eileen says she's booked them at able at the Bistro, he realizes she's sent an RSVP to the awards dinner.

Dev, Mary and David greet the kids as they come out after the play, congratulating them for a job well done. Max asks where his mum is and is told she'll be back in a minute.

But Kylie has arrived at the clinic. Sarah is not pleased to see her. Kylie sits down with her. She explains to Sarah how much Max means to her. She never thinks of him as Callum's son, just hers and he's the best thing that ever happened to her. Sarah doesn't think that Kylie or David would ever get their heads around it. They'd be reminded of Callum every time they say the baby. Kylie assures her that she'll support Sarah if a termination is what she really wants but she'll support her if she keeps the baby, too.

In Streetcars, Michael and Eileen are arguing, with Tim stealing biscuits from a now full biscuit jar behind them. They're at it hammer and tongs. Michael spits that she'll have to go on her own because he's not going. Eileen insists she did it for him and then wrestles the biscuit jar from Tim!

Liz is pouring herself a cup of tea. Johnny comes in, having slipped in the back. She offers him a cup and then asks how it went. He tells Liz that he stole an envelope that Carla had licked. Liz finds the situation amusing in a way but it's different when he admits he's going to have to fake Carla's signature on the consent form. Oh dear. When asked what she thinks, Liz admits he's going to have to find out or he won't get any peace. Aidan comes in at the end and wants some explaining from his dad.

Sarah isn't sure she can lie to a child all it's life that she doesn't know where its father is. Kylie muses that a life for a death equals things out, maybe. The nurse comes out and calls for Sarah Platt. What will she do?

Tvor

Written by Mark Burt and directed by Audrey Cooke

It's decision time for Sarah. A nurse calls her name. Kylie looks at her and asks what she wants to do.

David, meanwhile, has been searching for Kylie in the ladies' loos at the school but there's no sign of her. Max asks if it's his fault that she's disappeared again but David tells him no, things are different this time.

In the back room of the Rovers Aidan is trying to find out what's going on between his Dad and Liz. Johnny makes up a totally unconvincing story about getting a quote from Liz for catering a client and supplier shindig.

Anna's getting herself in a state about the next singles' night. Faye suggests she tries practising on her and concludes that Anna might want to brush up on her chat-up lines.

Carla and Nick are talking about Johnny and Rob. Robert catches the end of the conversation so Carla fills him in. Robert wonders if Tracy knows Rob's been in touch. Carla says she doesn't think so. Robert asks if he has anything to worry about. Carla snorts that he's going out with Tracy so he has everything to worry about.

Kylie and Sarah arrive home. David is understandably annoyed and wants to know where Kylie sloped off to but Sarah speaks up and says it wasn't Kylie's fault. She tells David she's pregnant and that Callum is the father.

Anna and Erica have arrived at the singles' night. Anna is still feeling nervous so Erica gives her a hot tip. She tells Anna to make herself feel in demand by imagining she's the last living woman on earth. Anna totally misses the point and wants to know what's happened to all the other women. Just as they're about to launch themselves into the fray, Kevin turns up. He claims he's there for a quiz night but Erica knows he's there for the same reason as them.

Michael's in the Rovers. He's telling Sean that he doesn't deserve the award and isn't gong to the ceremony. Sean doesn't get it at all – he'd never turn down the opportunity for a free bar and hob-nobbing with Weatherfield's finest. Just then Eileen comes in, followed by Dee who'd popped into the cab office. She wanted to see Michael before the awards but senses she may have come at a bad time. He says he's glad she's come as he needs to talk to her.

Robert is at home with Tracy. He raises the subject of Johnny and says that Rob's been in touch with him. At the mention of Rob's name Tracy looks momentarily awkward but quickly regains her composure. Robert says that he gets what Rob meant to her. Tracy responds by clasping Robert's hand. She tells him that that was then and this is now and points out that she helped to send Rob down. She trust her, one Robert is more than enough in her life.

David is having a go at Sarah. How could she not know she was pregnant? She insists the first she knew about it was after she had the accident. David asks if anyone else knows. He's horrified to hear she's told Todd, hardly the most trustworthy person on the street. David wants to know what Todd's opinion is on her having an abortion, given their history. Kylie interrupts that it's none of Todd's business, just like it's none of his. Sarah tells David she's keeping the baby. He can't believe what he's hearing. Kylie says Sarah has made her decision and all they can do is support it. David says in the case they've had it.

Anna has relaxed considerably after a few glasses of wine and tells Kevin he needs to do the same. They check out the talent in the room and Kevin spots a man eyeing up Anna. Erica explains she's only there to give Anne moral support.

David's in the middle of lecturing Sarah about her decision to keep the baby when Nick turns up. He can see something's going on. "Sarah?" he asks, looking at his sister.

Michael sits down in the Rovers with Dee and Eileen. Before he has a chance to say anything Dee hands him a present. It's a pair of her father's cufflinks that she thought he could wear at the awards. Awkward. Michael thanks her but says he isn't going to go because the award is undeserved. He can't bring himself to explain why. Dee thinks he just has stage fright but she looks hurt, especially when Michael tries to return the cufflinks. She insists he keeps them.

Back at the singles' night Anna and Kevin are comparing notes. Anna's a bit non-committal but Kevin reckons she's been beating men away with a stick. One of the women Kevin's been talking to stops by their table. Anna tries to hide behind her handbag as she and the woman are wearing the same outfit. But she needn't have worried because Kevin didn't even notice. Meanwhile, Erica smirks behind her large glass of wine as she watches the exchange between Kevin and Anna.

Aidan's having a drink with his dad in the Rovers. He's still sure that there's something going on between Johnny and Liz but his dad isn't admitting to anything. While Aidan goes off to the gents' Tracy comes in and starts pumping Johnny for information about his visit to Rob. He tells her they discussed Carla and the factory and says neither of which is any of her business.

Sarah and Nick are walking along the street. She thanks him for not judging her. He says David will come round eventually but right now Sarah's more worried about how Bethany's gong to react to the news. Nick puts his arm round her and says they'll handle it together.

Across the way Liz catches Johnny posting the DNA test in the mail box. He says he should hear back in a week or so. "And what if it's positive?" asks Liz. She suggests that maybe Carla deserves to know the truth. Not that she'll thank him for it, she adds helpfully, or Aidan and Kate, come to that. Johnny promises to let her know as soon as he does but Liz says if it's positive he won't need to as news travels round Weatherfield very fast.

David is still arguing with Kylie about Sarah. She points out that whatever he may think, Sarah's baby is just as innocent as Max and David is the baby's uncle. "Just as she was my sister when she was sleeping with the man who tried to destroy my life," retorts David. David says it's a problem that they can still fix before it's too late. He says it might sound callous but it's their future that's on the line. Their conversation is interrupted by Max coming downstairs. He wants to know why his mum missed the end of the play. Kylie explains that Sarah was a bit poorly and she had to take her to the doctor's. Max needs reassuring that it wasn't because of anything he did. After Max goes back upstairs Kylie asks David how he can feel so much for Max but nothing for the baby growing inside Sarah.

Eileen is at home with Michael. She tells him that he must have his reasons so she'll return the cufflinks to Dee. Mid conversation Michael suddenly makes a call on his mobile. Eileen smiles to herself as Michael rings Dee and tells her that he will be at the awards after all, with the cufflinks. After he comes off the phone Eileen says he won't regret it and adds that it would have been a bit strange if he hadn't been there, seeing as the Gazette's just run an article about him. It has a picture and everything, she adds. "What?!" exclaims Michael. He wants to know where they got the picture from.

Carla turns up at the factory to find Johnny working late. He tells her he had a run in with Tracy earlier. Carla admits that's probably her fault as Robert overheard her and Nick talking about it. Just as Carla's leaving Johnny gives her a phone message. She tells him that it's from a woman who has some sewing machines going cheap and she's going over there tomorrow. When he hears where it is, Johnny immediately wants to go with her. It's a rough area and he's worried about her going on her own. He hasn't even had the results of the test yet and already he's becoming the protective father figure. He tells Carla she was always a tough kid. "If I'd known how hard you had it … " he begins. Carla points out she wasn't his problem but adds as she walks out of the door that it's nice to know that somebody cares. After she's gone Johnny picks up a photo of Aidan and Kate and gives a big sigh.

Back at the Platts' David apologises to Kylie about how he was earlier but tells her that she has to get behind him on this one. "And help you bully her into an abortion?" she asks. David says he knows an abortion is a massive deal but Sarah will get over it. Kylie can't believe what he's saying. But David's view is that Kylie killed the baby's dad and Sarah could crack at any minute. He says one day Sarah will thank them. Kylie says he can't honestly believe that, he can't be that naïve. She tells him that it will all work out. "Now who's being naïve?" asks David.

Karen

It's breakfast time at the Platt's, and Gail is bemoaning the fact that she missed the nativity play. Kylie tells her that Max was fine about it, and there will always be another one next year.

Over at the garage, Tyrone is looking at a message on his phone, informing him that his credit limit is about to expire, while Kevin, Luke and Tim joke about Christmas shopping.

Sarah and Bethany are walking down the Street. Sarah is on the phone to the school, checking that it really is a day of home study, for Bethany to get coursework finished. When she assured that it is, Bethany tells her she thought they could go into town, she needs a dress for the dance. Sarah tells her she has to do her coursework first.

Eileen and Michael step out of their front door. Eileen is looking at the article about the local heroes in the Gazette and is delighted. Michael doesn't look so happy about it. They meet Gail, and Eileen goes into full gloat about it, she's sure Michael will win the award on Friday. "You're going then?" asks Gail, astounded. Eileen assures her that of course they're going. Gail turns to Michael, with raised eyebrows. "Good luck," she murmurs. "Yeah," mutters Michael.

Over in the salon, Audrey wonders what is up with David and Kylie, all they've done is snipe and bicker at each other all morning. Bethany and Sarah are in the salon, and soon get involved in the squabbling. Eventually Audrey tells Bethany she'll do her nails out the back, so she can get away from it all. When they've gone, David turns to Sarah. "You've not told Bethany then?" he asks. Sarah says she'll tell her when she's ready, and Gail too.

Tracy and Robert are in the pawn shop. Tracy is ratty because business is slow, so in the end Robert goes off to work.

Over in the shop, Anna and Erica are discussing the men from the singles night, when Kevin comes in. Dev comes out to serve him, as Erica is busy texting one of the men on Anna's behalf.

Todd has gone to the salon for a haircut by David. Kylie is there, reading a magazine, and Bethany is in the back room doing her school work. Todd starts talking about Sarah being pregnant with Callum's baby, and how he thinks she needs a bit of support. Bethany hears all this and comes rushing through and out the front door.

Sean and Billy are in the bistro having lunch. At another table, Audrey is treating Sarah and Gail to lunch. Audrey says it's a relief to get away from David and Kylie for a while. Just then Bethany marches in and sits down at the table. She says she thought they were celebrating, and announces Sarah's pregnancy!

Back in the salon, Kylie is glaring at David. In then end he stops what he's doing. "What?" he asks her. She tells him she doesn't think he's happy unless he's got an enemy, first it was Callum and now it's Sarah. He reminds her that he never invited Callum round and he never whacked him over the head, he just tried to fix things. "I never killed anyone!" he says.

Tracy is in the bistro kitchen, apologising to Robert, who is very busy. "Apology accepted," he says, rushing around trying to cook. She says she could watch him for hours, he has a real passion for what he does. "Don't you?" he asks. She reminds him she sells hooky goods in a second hand shop, so no, she doesn't. She did like being a florist once, she likes making things. Robert tells her it's never too late, but Tracy says she thinks it is.

Gail and Audrey are asking Sarah how she could have been so stupid, they are sure it's going to bring Callum back on the scene.

Billy wonders aloud to Sean if he should go over there to support Sarah, but Sean tells him to leave them alone.

Gail asks Sarah if Callum knows, and she tells her he doesn't. Andy arrives at the table to ask if they want any more drinks, and is told that Sarah is pregnant. Then Steph arrives for the food order and is also given the news. Just then Billy comes over and says he couldn't help overhearing and wonders if he can be of any help, but Gail sends him away with a flea in his ear. Sarah tells her mother that she's had time to think, and this is a good thing. "A good thing!" exclaims Gail, "you, up the duff, by the monster that terrorised our whole family?" Sarah replies that she's having the baby and Gail will just have to get used to it. She goes off to the ladies. When she's gone, Gail tells Bethany that she's going to have a little brother or sister. "What if I don't want a little brother or sister?" says Bethany. Audrey tells her it's not her choice. Bethany wonders if she should get pregnant. "Oh, please no!" says Gail, and Audrey tells her she's too old to get pregnant in their family!

In the taxi office, Eileen is wittering on about the number of phone calls she's had since Michael's photo was in the paper, and tells him he should try and mention Streetcars in his acceptance speech. He reminds her that he might not win, but she doesn't seem to be listening.

Anna is back in the shop, showing Erica a rather smutty text she's had from the man that Erica was messaging. She then deletes it, and him with it. Dev remarks that sometimes all people need to do is look around them, but Erica says that they will go back to the singles night place, and this time both of them will pull.

Tyrone is talking to Michael outside the garage, telling he wants lots of lights covering the whole Street. Michael says he can get some ex council display lights for 90 pounds. Kevin keeps calling Tyrone to come and help him with a car he's working on. So Tyrone hurriedly pulls some money out and hands it over. Just then Fiz comes along and Tyrone tells her they're really busy and he doesn't know what time he'll be home. As she and Michael walk away, Michael remarks that Tyrone looks exhausted.

Todd is back in the shop looking at his hair in a mirror. Tracy tells him it doesn't look any different to her, and then she sends him home. As soon as he's gone, the phone rings, it's Rob. Tracy gets all flirty on the phone with him and tells him she's looking forward to seeing him. Then she hangs up and looks a little worried.

Eileen and Michael are in the pub, she's written his acceptance speech for him and he's reading it through. He puts it down, saying he's not comfortable with all this, and then goes off to the gents. On his way he passes Gail who asks if he's ok. He tells her he doesn't think he can do this, he went to prison for Gail's burglary, he got off with Dee's, all he wanted to do was to make amends. Now he's worried that she will put 2 and 2 together and he'll end up back in prison. "None of us know what we're doing, we just have to do our best with whatever life chucks at us," she says, obviously having had a few glasses of wine. "Yeah, thanks Gail," mutter Michael as he walks off.

Back at the Platt's, Bethany tells David and Kylie that she doesn't want to be a blended family, especially not blended with Callum. David says he's sure Callum won't come back. Then she goes off to look for her mum, saying she's been a bit of brat lately.

When she's gone, Kylie tells David she's sorry, she knows he only wants what's best for them., but he tells her he doesn't think he can live like this, it's like a crowbar has opened up all the old cracks that were there before. He can see in her eyes that she despises him, she accused him of wanting his own sister dead. He doesn't think they have a future together so he thinks it's best if he moves out. "Our marriage is dead."

Anne Logan

Here's a Thursday episode instead of the first Friday one.

At the Barlows' place they're discussing Christmas presents, though Ken points out that no matter what anyone gives Tracy she never likes it. She says this is because she never got what she wanted. And she only performed surgery on her doll because she really wanted to be a doctor and Ken wouldn't let her practice on anything live. She tells Robert she's got a meeting with the bank this afternoon and doesn't know when she'll be back.

In a cell in a prison not so far away, her "bank" tells his cellmate his ex is coming in today but that doesn't mean he's forgiven Tracy. Oh no.

Sarah, Nick and David meet Kylie, who looks daggers at David. Nick and Sarah tell him he has to sort this out. He can't ruin yet another Christmas for the kids.

At Eileen's it's all chat about the awards. Michael is not very enthusiastic about what they're calling his big night.

Fiz wants to surprise Tyrone by having the Christmas tree and decorations all up by the time he gets home. Sinead, Beth and Kirky offer to help, though they're less than impressed by the state of the decs. Beth reckons they put the "grot" into "grotto." They say the factory is closing early because of the "do" tonight so they borrow Fiz's spare key so they can decorate later. Sinead has given up being anxious about the Portugal trip - she says it's only right that Chesney wants to spend time with Joseph at Christmas.

Michael and Andy meet in the street. Michael's still grumpy. Michael meets Gail, who tells him he'll just have to grin and bear it at the awards. He's a different person now. Michael mutters that if he was a better person he would face up to his past.

In the factory they're worried about the catering but Aidan assures the machinists that no matter what happens, they won't run out of booze. His less than Chrismassy mood is explained when we hear him and Kate talk about today being the 22nd anniversary of their mother's death.

Kevin and Anna chat in the cafe. Kevin's got a date on Monday with a woman he met at the singles night. He says she seems nice. (This is called damning with faint praise!) Anna also has a date.

As the workers get their coats at the end of the very short working day, Sinead has a quick whip-round getting donations to buy some new decorations for Fiz and Tyrone. Everyone puts in five pounds (though I don't know any factory workers who would have that much money to spare at Christmas), though Sally has to be guilt-tripped into donating and then takes back some change. Aidan tells them all to be back for the party at 5.

In the prison visiting room, Tracy flirts with Rob. She asks him why he wanted to see Johnny Connor. He says Carla is his sister and he wanted to know what was going on that would make her give up a share of the factory. Tracy tells him she regrets turning him in but she had Amy to think about. Rob says he thought Tracy would have moved on by now. Tracy tells him no - there's nobody else in her life.

In the cafe, Tim tells Anna he's gone right off turkeys since he saw a live one. Leanne comes in and orders a turkey and stuffing muffin (really?). She sees Zeedan looking a bit fed up and goes over to talk to him. It seems he's fed up with the gym and wants to do something he can be proud of but he can't find another job. He's at a loose end so offers to come over to the bistro to help out with the awards evening.

Michael's getting ready for the awards ceremony by sitting in the pub drowning his sorrows. He just wants to be left alone. Gail points out that if he doesn't go to the ceremony, people might start asking questions.

Billy and Tim are both at the factory party. Tim asks the vicar who does the church windows. Billy says the parishioners do the inside and the man upstairs does the outside. Tim reckons that even if the bloke's a neighbour, Tim can probably beat the price. Billy explains he was talking about God and Tim explains that asking the question was Sally's idea in the first place. Billy has to go off to the awards function. Elsewhere at the party, Eva and Aidan are sort-of flirting/giving each other the eye.

Nick's stressing out at the awards do as Billy takes to the microphone and begins the evening. Eileen's annoyed that Michael isn't there yet. She not exactly pleased that when he does come in he's with Gail.

In the salon, Kylie and David have a chat about the need to give the kids a good Christmas. David says he'll come home but only if he's treated as a normal human being and not a monster.

Tracy arrives home, claiming to have been unable to get away from a meeting with the bank's business manager. Robert says she has to come with him and drags her out of the house.

Fiz comes home and is amazed and grateful to see the house looking all sparkly and Christmassy. "Ty will love it!" she says, and dashes over the garage to get him.

Robert takes Tracy to Barlow's Buys which is filled with flowers. He tells her he thinks she should be happy in her work and she always seemed happy when working in the florist shop. He tells her they can turn the secondhand shop into a florist's overnight.

As Billy reads the nominations, Eileen makes threats towards Gail. Gail tries to get her to calm down before Dee arrives but it's too late. Dee is at the door with a friend who points at Michael and shouts that she recognises him as the man she saw running away from Dee's the night she was burgled. She recognised his picture in a story about the awards in the paper.

Rob goes back to his cell and tells his cellmate the meeting with Tracy went exactly as expected. Tracy looked him in the eye and lied to him. Now she's going to get exactly what she deserves.

The end
Margaret Carr

Well although this episode was transmitted a week before Christmas, this report is being written after the 'big event' .

Here in the UK it has been exceptionally mild, particularly down the South of England. Unfortunately the poor people in the North and North West of England have been flooded out of their homes by torrential rain. I understand parts of the US have suffered from tornadoes and Australia has bush fires. Hopefully the weather will eventually sort itself out, or we may need a new planet to inhabit ... spaceships ready ! Update since writing that. Last Sunday, London experienced some overnight snow, but it soon cleared by the morning, but the temperatures are now very cold particularly in the evenings.

Over in Weatherfield everybody (?!) is gearing up for Christmas.

At the awards ceremony in the Bistro, Dee is giving Michael a hard time after it was revealed that he burgled her house. Gail tries to support him by saying that he burgled her house as well ! Michael tries to apologies. Her and her friend walk out. Then Billy the Vicar announces the winner as ... Michael Rodwell (surprise, surprise!!).

Fiz brings Tyrone into the house, covering his eyes. She then tells him to open them to see a 'winter wonderland' of decorations. His first reaction is that he wanted to do the decorations. Kirky says he realised how busy he is. He says he can't afford that, but Beth tells him that everyone in the factory chipped in and therefore it doesn't cost him a penny. He then thanks everybody, as they all leave.

Michael runs after Dee and her friend to give her back the cufflinks. He also offers to pay for a cab home. Her friend suggests that they may not be going straight home, but stopping off at the police station on the way. He pleads with them not to do that. Dee asks why shouldn't she, and he says he couldn't face prison again. Gail leaps to his defense again, by saying he really is a good man. Dee says that provided he never contacts her again, she won't go to the police. Michael then decides to go for a walk to clear his head, after planting a kiss on Gail as a thank you.

At the office party at Underworld. People are dancing on the spot, amongst the sewing machines! Beth mimics the song being played 'I wish it could be Christmas Everyday', however they soon realise the disadvantages of getting fed up with it, and having turkey all the time.

in the hair salon, David and Sarah are talking about what has happened, with her baby and Kylie. He says that Kylie doesn't really love him. He says that Kylie even thought that he was responsible for pushing her in front of Tim's van. She says that he has a habit of over-reacting. He then chucks her the keys to the salon telling her to lock up. She wonders what he is doing, and he says "over-reacting".

Outside Underworld, Aidan is sitting on the step, and is joined by Eva. He says it was too warm in there, but she thinks it is cold outside. They chat, and she asks him why he seems depressed. He says it was 22 years ago that night that his mother died. She gives him a hug. They then decide to go back inside.

Over at the Barlows, Tracy is annoyed with Robert for setting up a flower shop for her. She says all her old stock is now covered in pollen. Ken supports Robert, as he doesn't approve of the shop. Roberts says that he was only trying to please her.

Zeedan is watching Robert in the kitchen of the Bistro. Leanne comes in and says that the customers are ready to eat. They talk about Michael, and she says 'everybody' knew about Michael's past.

In the Grimshaw's Michael comes in. He tells Todd that he would like to speak with his mother. Jason offers to take Todd for a pint. Michael apologises to Eileen for embarrassing her at the ceremony. She says he has been an idiot. She tells him he should have run a mile from the woman. She hoped people would look at her for the right reasons. She tells him to go and get some fish and chips as a start for an apology.

David comes into his house and is greeted by Max (Lily the almost invisible child!) is also sitting there. Kylie comes downstairs and David explains he needs a little more time to sort himself out. She says it is a week before Christmas, but he says it is a week after she accused him of trying to hurt his sister. Kylie says she has apologised. She says the kids need a father and she needs a husband. She is not going to let anything split them up.

Tyrone is still complaining to Fiz about the neighbours putting up the decorations. He really wanted to do it as it is something he could do for himself. She doesn't want to argue about it, she says they should just concentrate on making Hope happy.

Back at the Bistro, Zeedan is sampling some of Robert's food. Robert asks how he likes it, but Zeedan thinks it needs something more. Robert says that critics tend to know how it should be done, but cannot do it for themselves. Zeedan says that he does do some cooking. He suggests some mustard seed may help. Roberts samples a bit himself and agrees that it is a possibility. He then offers Zeedan a job ! (no discussion on qualifications, hours to work, pay !).

Ken and Tracy have a heart to heart. Ken says Robert was only trying to do his best for her, because he cares for her. Tracy says that is alright, but it has to be something that she wants. She shouldn't punish someone who wants to help you.

Michael is walking along the street and meets Sarah and Gail. He congratulates Sarah on her news. Sarah goes off and leaves Michael with Gail. They make small talk, and then she asks how it went with Eileen. He says she was upset, and Gail immediately offers him to sleep at her place (what in her garage annex?). He says he has made in-roads. He says she is very compassionate deep down, to which Gail replies "very deep" ! He thanks her again for her help.

Johnny is in the office having a drink. Carla comes in and tells him not to drain their 'emergency supply', as there is plenty outside. They talk briefly about the anniversary of his wife's death. He says he just wants some time on his own.

It is the evening and Robert walks into the shop where Tracy is arranging the flowers. He tells her to keep the door locked at this time. She wonders if someone will make off with a load of lilies ! He again apologises to her and she having calmed down says that nobody has ever done that sort of thing for her before. She says she should have felt special rather than angry. She realises 'Barlow Buys' is a hangover from the past and she needs to move on. He asks if he suffers from hay-fever. He says he doesn't which pleases her as they are going to do some serious 'pollinating' !!!!

Rob is lying on his prison bunk. He says to his cell mate that he is composing a letter in his head to the guy that has the same first name as him, and also the same girlfriend. He thinks they should have a catchup.

What will Rob do, being in a prison cell? Where does Tracy fit into this? Does the Bistro have a new MasterChef ? Further reports to follow shortly.

Martin Rosen

Written by Simon Crowther Directed by Judith Dine

Amy's still working at the violin, not very well. She's going to be performing, a last minute addition to the lineup courtesy of Emily, to a concert at the church hall. Tracy and Ken are proud of her. Tracy's face screws up when Nessa appears, having stayed the night again. Everyone promises to attend, with Todd minding the shop. Ken wonders if Todd knows he's about to be a florist. Tracy hasn't told him yet but figures as he's gay it shouldn't be a problem. Ken admonishes her as she leaves.

In the cafe, David is complaining about the hard mattress on Audrey's spare room. Nick has come in and advises David to go back to his wife but David has other ideas even if he's not really serious about them. Elsewhere in the cafe, Liz and Izzy are discussing men with Anna and how, at singles nights, you know they're interested because they're there. The added advantage over internet dating is that they're not hiding behind old photos. Anna has a date with a bloke that sells trampolines. Kevin arrives, full of Christmas spirit and sporting a jaunty pair of reindeer antlers. He knows the names of all of them plus all the seven dwarves but can't think of the seven wonders of the world. Back over to the brothers and David wonders if Eva would go out with him. Nick reckons Eva would eat him alive. He needs to make it right with Kylie.

Tracy finds another visiting order that's been delivered to the shop. She looks thoughtful.

Over at Number 1, Robert wants to have a word with Ken who thanks him for the epic breakfast that morning. Robert admits he was buttering Ken up and sits down. In spite of the rocky re-start, after six months, Robert thinks things are going pretty well and, seeing as he's an old fashioned guy, he asks for Tracy's hand in marriage. He professes to love her for all her faults. Ken recognizes their relationship as being tempestuous and wonders about Rob's recent mention. Robert admits he's often jealous and possessive but though he and Tracy fight, they always make up. Ken recalls that he and Deirdre were the same. Ken wants Tracy to be happen and if Robert can make her happy that's ok, but insists, for Amy's sake, that he's committed. Robert promises that he is. The blessing is given.

Anna sees Kevin coming out of the chippy with a treat for the lads. Turns out the treat and the antlers are an attempt to keep Tyrone's spirits up. Hope is back in hospital. Anna tells Kevin she's off to town to get some tights for her date which is at the Bistro. Kevin has a date as well, also at the Bistro. (because, you know, there's no other restaurant in Weatherfield or in the metropolis of the city centre of Manchester not a million miles away.) They expect to see each other there and wish each other good luck.

At the factory, Johnny is on the phone to Rob, who has a contraband mobile in his cell. Johnny refuses to pay Rob a penny until he has the proof that Carla is or is not his daughter. Rob continues to wind up Johnny who suspends the call when Aidan comes in the office looking for highlighter pens. Rob interrupts and insists he be paid. He hangs up leaving Johnny annoyed. Aidan tells him later that he's got a meeting with a client, someone from O'Driscoll's, someone that apparently likes ping pong. Watch this space.

Todd has been told of his enforced change of career, should he choose to continue to work for Tracy. He's not impressed. She says she can train him but he doesn't really want to be one. She leaves him to it to go into town, ostensibly shopping but there's Amy's concert to attend and that visiting order is also looming.

At Number 1, Ken, Nessa, Audrey and Robert have gathered prior to leaving for the concert. Amy is looking forward to it, to. They just need Tracy to arrive but Tracy is on the bus, calling Rob to tell him she's on the way. Priorities have never been Tracy Barlow's strong suit.

After the break, All three mechanics are now sporting the antlers and they discuss their favourite Christmas carols. Kevin loves Hark the Herald Angels and Tyrone prefers Silent Night. Luke's choice of O Little Town of Bethlehem is roundly scorned by the other two with a laugh. As Yasmeen walks by, they ask her but her choice, decided upon by the lyrics she admires, is In the Bleak Midwinter!

Michelle teases Liz about someone that fancies the pants off her, I think it's Johnny she's talking about. And why isn't Liz going to Amy's concert? Liz makes excuses, mainly that someone has to look after the bar and insists she supports Amy. Michelle teases her anyway then takes a call from Steve who is confirming he'll be home on Christmas Eve. Sounds like Andy's opening a new bar but will have to make do without Steve. Liz asks to pass on good luck but Michelle doesn't because Steve could hear her. After she hangs up, Liz admits she's a bit superstitious and wished Michelle had actually said the words. Liz ducks down behind the bar seconds before Johnny comes in asking for Liz in the exact words that Michelle was teasing Liz about earlier.

Everyone is still waiting for Tracy. Emily is worried about the time. Tracy isn't answering her phone. Emily tells them they can expect a crowd of upwards of 200 people. Amy is starting to look nervous.

Liz serves Johnny a mug of mulled wine in the back room. He asks if she minds being his confidant. Apparently she doesn't but recommends that he sit all parties down and just tell them the truth. He can't do that before knowing that the DNA matches. He then offers to let Sean off for a few hours to cover the bar if she wants to go to Amy's concert but Liz puts him off.

Robert is assuring Amy that it's ok to be nervous. Amy is fretting that if her mother isn't there, she'll mess it up and then insists she doesn't want to do it after all.

Tyrone takes delivery of two dozen Christmas trees.

Todd moans to Robert about becoming a florist. Robert finds out that Tracy left to go to town awhile back.

In the prison, Tracy is talking to Rob about this and that. He's complaining. She tells him about Nessa and then that she's doing the Christmas dinner this year. He makes her laugh by commenting that maybe he's better off inside after all!

Aidan is still searching for his highlighter pens, exasperating Carla. Kate pops in after finishing packing a job and thought she'd have a word with Adrian. Something seems to be up with their father, he seems very distracted. Carla listens in. Michelle arrives and tells Carla and Kate that she's got a couple of bridal gowns that she's borrowed from a photo shoot for them to try on. Oooh, both women are interested.

Luke helps sort out the trees, leaning them against surrounding walls, while Kevin asks mundane questions like how often you should replace your toothbrush. There is then a discussion on toothbrushes with further teasing about carols. Tyrone takes a call from Fiz and the mood goes quiet. Tyrone tells them that Hope has an infection and is transferring to the General. Kevin offers to drive him rather than he having to worry about parking.

Izzy greets Anna who's found something to wear for her date. Izzy mentions that she hasn't done a food shop for Christmas day but Jake will be at Anna's for their feast. Anna is surprised Gary didn't invite Izzy, too (so am I) and invites her along.

Kate and Carla are in a couple of very pretty, lacy wedding gowns. She tells Kate that the last time she passed out at her wedding reception and her husband copped off with someone half her age. Carla and Michelle assure Kate that was not a joke. Johnny comes in and admires the women. Michelle jokes that they could be sisters. The women laugh but Johnny looks as if he's gone white in the face. He says they look nice but has something to take care of. Michelle answers her ringing phone, Steve again. This time it's not good news from the sounds of it.

Tracy asks Rob why she asked her to visit. He lies that the lead officer in his case is being charged with some sort of corruption charges and his solicitor thinks he could be getting out. He wants to know if she'd take him back.

Tvor

Written by Simon Crowther and directed by Judith Dine

Rob wants an answer from Tracy. If he gets let out, where does he stand with her? Tracy's all of a dither. She may have forgiven him for what he did but what about everyone else on the street? Rob asks what Amy's been up to. Tracy starts to tell him about her learning the violin. OMG! She suddenly remembers she's meant to be at the concert and rushes off before Rob has time to utter another word.

But it looks like Tracy was too late. We see a tearful Amy back at home with Ken and Nessa. Her grandfather tries to reassure her there will be plenty more opportunities and he's sure her mother won't miss them. "I wouldn't bet on it,'" snorts Nessa.

A worried Ty arrives at the hospital where he finds Fiz who tells him Hope's been put on a drip.

Kylie's having a girly chat at home with Eva who's discussing the lack of luck with her love life. David's taken Lily and Max out for smoothies. They arrive back and he and Kylie immediately start bickering. Being deliberately provocative David asks Eva if she fancies going out for a drink with him. Eva's taken aback and Kylie's furious with David for behaving like that in front of the kids.

Tracy arrives home to be greeted by three stony faces. She makes out the bus broke down but nobody seems convinced. Nessa can't wait to put the boot in. Amy was too scared to perform without her mum there. Nessa tells Tracy that 200 people remember to go but not her. Tracy offers to take Amy out for a smoothie but it's going to take a lot more than that to placate her. "At least my dad'll be home soon," she says.

Unfortunately for Amy, though, it seems Steve's plans have changed. We hear Michelle telling Carla that Andy has broken his leg so now Steve has to stay out in Spain to help his brother open his new bar on Christmas Eve.

Johnny arrives at the factory. He is somewhat surprised to find Kate and Aidan engrossed in a game of table tennis.

Michelle goes round to Ken's to ask if she can have a word with Amy. Ken explains why Amy isn't in the best of moods. Which is unfortunate since Michelle's news isn't going to help matters.

Anna and Kevin are in the Bistro together, waiting for their respective dates to arrive. Glen turns up first so Leanne shows him and Anna to their table. Meanwhile Tracy comes in looking for Robert. He is furious with her for missing the concert and letting down Amy and he clearly doesn't believe her excuses about the bus breaking down and her phone not working. As their voices start to rise Leanne asks them to take their argument outside. Tracy tells Leanne to shut up and Robert jumps to Leanne's defense. Tracy decides to leave and tells Robert he can stay and flirt with Leanne.

As Kate and Aidan continue their game of table tennis they explain to their father the benefits of having a table in the workplace. Apparently it brings people together. It also happens that O'Driscoll, one of their suppliers, has challenged the Underworld staff to a tournament. Well, it makes a change from five-a-side football and cricket. Oh, and Aidan has one more piece of news – he told O'Driscoll that Johnny almost made the Olympic team back in 1988. Johnny slopes off to his office to do some work. Kate teases Aidan that he and Eva could make a team together and these leads on to her betting Aidan that he'll sleep with her by New Year's Eve. Aidan is convinced he won't and tells his sister it will be the easiest £20 he'll ever make.

David comes downstairs after putting the kids to bed and Kylie starts questioning him about whether he's dried Lily's hair properly and remembered to turn the lights out. He points out that he has had some practice in putting the kids to bed. "Yeah, after you kicked me out," snaps Kylie. David turns to Eva and says if she fancies that drink, Kylie's got his number. Eva giggles nervously and tells David she doesn't think he's her type but thanks anyway. David's parting shot is that he's see Kylie at the panto tomorrow.

Kevin's date Joanne arrives. She's really nervous and can't stop talking. Kevin tells a joke and she laughs uproariously. Meanwhile Anna looks bored rigid by Glen who's going on about his ex-wife who left him. She looks enviously over at Kevin when she hears the laughter coming from his direction.

Rob and his cellmate are passing the time playing word games when Rob's mattress starts to vibrate. It's his hidden phone and he has a call from Tracy. She tells him that if he gets out she'll be waiting and she still loves him. He says he loves her too. Rob says he has to go. As he replaces his phone under the mattress Rob tells his cellmate that she nibbled, she bit and now he's reeled her in. He says that the next part of his plan involves ringing her boyfriend and inviting him in for a little chat. He may not have Robert's number but he does know where he lives …

Anna's date has finally moved onto another subject. He's now boring her with tales about his sporting achievements. Anna looks as though she's about to die of boredom. Kevin is faring a bit better although he can hardly get a word in edgewise. He glances over at Anna.

In the hospital Fiz and Ty are talking across Hope's bed. Fiz tells him Hope might have to say in over Christmas. Ty refuses to accept this possibility and says that if Hope can't go to Lapland, then Lapland is coming to her and that's the end of it.

Nessa and Ken are watching television and talking about Steve not coming home. Nessa's theory is that he and Andy were out on the lash when he broke his leg but Ken defends Steve. He says he's not a bad father and nor is Tracy a bad mother. The phone rings and Nessa offers to answer it but when she picks it up the caller hangs up. Tracy comes in with the news that Amy's forgiven her. Steve has inadvertently got her off the hook.

Back in the Bistro Joanne goes off to the ladies so Anna takes the opportunity to go over for a quick chat with Kevin. They ask each other about their dates and both make out that they're going OK.

The Barlows' phone rings again. This time Ken goes to answer it but the same thing happens. Out in the kitchen Tracy is arguing with Robert about what happened in the Bistro. Robert tells Tracy she's the one who messed up today, not Leanne. He says he knows there's something going on. He doesn't know what it is but he's going to find out. Robert asks how Amy is and Tracy complains that all anyone ever asks about is Amy. Her version of events is that Amy lost her nerve, simple as that. Amy had a cry, they had a chat and now everything is fine.

Nick and Carla arrive home with a Christmas tree on the roof of the car. But as far as Carla's concerned she's done her bit. She's only ever had a tree that comes complete with baubles already on it and poor Nick is even expected to carry the tree up to the flat on his own.

Glen and Anna come out of the Bistro. It's pretty clear Anna's not hoping for a second date. There's a bit of a mix up over the waiting taxi. Anna calls across that the taxi is for Joanne just as Kevin is giving his date a goodbye kiss.

At the Barlows' Nessa is having a go at Tracy for using her nail varnish when the phone rings yet again. This time Robert comes downstairs and picks it up which the others are busy bickering in the living room. Rob introduces himself. He gives Robert a clue by telling him that Robert's sleeping in his bed while he's sleeping in a cell. Robert is about to hang up but Rob manages to speak before he does. He tells him he's sent him an invitation which should arrive tomorrow. He says if Robert goes in to see him he'll explain everything. "And remember, not a word to Tracy," he adds. Robert hangs up and goes through to the living room where he makes out that the call was a customer survey about broadband. As Ken complains about getting a call like that over Christmas Robert looks across at Tracy with a stony expression on his face.

Karen

It's morning in the Barlow household, and Robert is very cool with Tracy, ignoring her attempts to lure him back to bed to play 'mummmies and daddies'.

At the Platt's, David has arrived to put his washing in the machine, reminding Kylie, when she asks what's wrong with Audrey's machine, that this is his house and his machine. He's off into town, so Gail asks him to pick up a few things, handing him a list. One of the items is a birthday cake, for himself. He's not happy at having to buy his own cake, and asks if he should buy his own presents too.

Robert has arrived at work in the Bistro kitchen, and Nick brings in the post. He hands Robert a brown envelope which, when Robert opens it, turns out to be a visiting order from Rob.

Over at the shop, Tracy and Todd are in the back room talking about her new florist's shop. Tracy is struggling to come up with a good name for her new business, and tells Todd there's a bonus in it if he can come up with a good one. "But I'm ruling out Pansies!" she says. As she goes out to the front her mobile starts to ring and Todd answers it for her. He's surprised to find it's Rob. Tracy hears him talking and comes and takes her phone, acting all surprised. "Hello stranger, what a surprise!" she says.

In the pub, Tyrone is talking about Hope. She's now on antibiotics to bring her temperature down. Despite this turn for the worse, Tyrone tells them all she'll be home for Christmas.

Todd finds Tracy sitting with her head in her hands. She tells him she's all over the place. He can't see the problem, one is a gorgeous gourmet with a six-pack and a future, the other one sews mail bags. She tells him that Rob might be getting out on a technicality. "Wow!" says Todd, and then reminds her that even if he does get out, Rob's a murderer. "Everyone makes mistakes," she says. Todd replies that he still did it, and if he gets out, she or Amy could be next. She is sure that would never happen. "What about Robert?" asks Todd. Tracy says that she loves Robert, he's a good guy and he makes her laugh and want to be a better person. She implores Todd not to tell anyone about this, not for her sake but for Robert's. "He deserves better," she says. Todd agrees, "Yes," he says, "he does."

Over at the factory, Sinead is collecting the gifts for the Secret Santa, and Aidan is practicing table tennis, using Kirk as ball boy. Sally goes over and tells him her machine is puckering the material, but Aidan says he's on his break and will look it later. Beth remarks that Kirk was Weatherfield Under 16 table tennis champion, and Aidan has him being ball boy. "Why didn't you say?" asks Aidan, and Kirk gives him some technique tips.

David is in town, walking along with several shopping bags, when he sees Callum's mum talking to a policeman. He goes over and finds that she's very upset because her purse has been stolen and amongst the things in it was a photo of Callum.

Back at the Platt's, Kylie, Gail and the kids are all ready to go the pantomime and are waiting for David. As he hasn't turned up Kylie has messaged Nick and he arrives to give them a lift there. Kylie is convinced David is late on purpose to wind her up.

David meanwhile, is sitting Callum's mum down and buying her coffee. He gives her some money to get a taxi home. Tearfully, she says that it's like Callum has died, although people are telling her she's better off without him. She's fallen out with her sister over this and now she's not going there on Christmas day. She asks how Max is, and tells David he's done a good job with him. David offers to take Max round to see her, but she's worried because he was so frightened the last time he saw her.

In the factory, Kirk and Aidan are playing table tennis against each other. Kirk wins and as he shakes Aidan's hand he says he hopes there's no hard feelings. "Not if you play like that against O'Driscoll's," says Aidan.

David arrives home with his shopping, and Sarah and Bethany give him a hard time for being so late and missing the pantomime. David reminds Sarah that she was only married for a very short time and is not in a position to hand out marital advice. Bethany joins in and David gets very irritated. "What makes this child think she can talk to me like an adult?" he says. Bethany tells him that at least Sarah is facing up to her responsibilities. David leaves.

Outside, Tyrone, Michael and several others are putting up fairy lights and making the Street look very festive for Hope, and David goes to help. Just then Tyrone gets a phone call from Fiz, Hope is no better, she still has a high temperature. When he gets off the phone Norris tells him to get off to the hospital. Before he goes, Tyrone tells Michael to ditch the inflatable reindeer, he wants something with more life in it, something to put a smile on Hope's face, a reason for her to jump out of bed. They stare at him, somewhat puzzled, and David asks if he's going to cancel. He assures them he's not, and rushes off with Norris who's offered to drive him.

Sally sees Anna in the pub and says it's her and Tim's first Christmas together as man and wife so she wants it to be special. She asks Anna to explain to Faye that she doesn't want her there all day, lolling around on the sofa and hogging the Quality Street is a no-no. Anna, somewhat stroppily, says that it doesn't matter, she loves Faye's company, and anyway, this is her first Christmas on her own.

Zeedan and Andy go into the kitchen at the restaurant and start messing about. Robert gets very angry with Zeedan and tells him if it was a proper restaurant he would have his marching orders. Leanne looks up, surprised.

Kylie and Gail are back from the pantomime, and David comes in. Kylie is furious with him, he can help out the neighbours but not have fun with his own kids. He asks her to hear him out and then explains that he was with Marian. "Oh, put the boot in did you?" snaps Kylie, jumping to conclusions, "as if her Christmas wasn't wrecked enough already!" David tries to explain but Kylie won't let him, then she tells him it's all over, and she goes off upstairs.

Outside, Anna is walking down the Street when she sees Kevin getting out of a taxi. She waves, and starts to walk over to him, until she sees him hold the door for a blonde girl who gets out after him. She turns and moves quickly out of sight.

Leanne finds Robert outside. She tells him she thinks he owes Zeedan an apology. Then she goes on to ask who he knows in prison, she recognised the prison visiting order that he got. He tells her it was from Rob Donovan, and explains that he wants to tell Robert something about Tracy. Leanne is astounded that he would even think of going, but Robert says it's an itch and he has to scratch it.

David bumps into Sarah by the bus stop. He tells her he was late earlier because he bumped into Marian, and explains that she'd had her purse stolen. For once he tried to do the right thing, and despite all the nasty things he's done to Marian in the past she actually saw the good in him. He's now wondering why Kylie can't. "Fair play to Callum," he says, "he never managed it while he was alive, but dead – he's nailed it. He's torn us apart."

Anne Logan

Written by Jonathan Harvey Directed by Judith Dine

It's Christmas Eve but by the time you're reading this, the holiday season will have come and gone. I hope all our readers have a wonderful, safe and happy 2016!

Back to Weatherfield...

Tyrone is wrestling with a few strings of lights which have got into a major snarl. Luke comes downstairs and pitches in to help. Tyrone is desperate to get it sorted before Hope comes home from hospital.

Robert's mind is on other things while Tracy tries to make out a name on a card. He's not much help and then tells her he's going into town to do some Christmas shopping. She accuses him of being a typical bloke, last minute shopping and all that. He takes off and as he closes the door she starts to tidy up. She picks up one of his coats and a box falls out, a box containing a beautiful ring.

Tyrone is supervising everyone on decorating duty. Even David and Max are doing their bit, adding bling to the front of Number 8. David asks after Hope, with Tyrone assuring him that they'll be bringing her back home later. All the work will not go unnoticed! Tyrone takes off. Sarah brings hot chocolate out to the lads. David asks Max if he wants to go see Marion later. Max nervously asks if Callum will be there but David adamantly says there's nothing to worry about. The idea that Marion might have a present for him brightens him up and he decides it's ok to go. He runs in the house. Sarah asks David why he didn't tell Kylie about yesterday. He dismisses the idea, it's like talking to a brick wall.

Aidan is still practicing ping pong with Johnny and Kate and it doesn't look like he's doing all that well. All the factory workers are getting ready to leave with Sally's remark about always finding herself identifying with the Queen giving Beth a reason to roll her eyes. There are "Merry Christmases" all around as most of them leave. The ping pong players are still at it. Carla comes out of the office and is invited to join but since she has no idea how to play and because it's Christmas Eve anyway, she suggests they give it a rest and go for a drink. It almost works but the Connors continue to finish their game while Carla strides out in search of something a bit more tempting.

Tyrone and Fiz are sitting with Hope who has a book. Fiz tells Tyrone they don't know when she'll be released, maybe not until after Christmas. Tyrone doesn't want to hear it. He refuses to face it. She suggests he go home and make sure everything is perfect for Ruby.

Tracy and Eccles run into Todd who has also been doing last minute shopping. She tells him because she has to tell someone and says she thinks Robert is about to propose and now she's in a pickle. She decides to bide her time until she knows if Rob will be released. She doesn't want to break anyone's heart at Christmas. Todd is sarcastic about her level of compassion. There is then a discussion about how much Tracy cares about people. She even says it with a straight face. "No, Babe," Todd points out the obvious "You're just keeping your options open."

Kylie's wrapping gifts. Sarah comes downstairs, having hid Bethany's gifts in the house. Sarah tells Kylie that David felt sorry for Marion because of what they'd all done and took Max there today because he doesn't have a heart of stone like she thinks. They argue but Sarah points out that she knows him well and he thinks the world of Kylie and the kids.

Roy tells Cathy that he thinks Tyrone is being a bit unrealistic. Chesney and Sinead are back from Portugal. Chesney remarks how much Joseph has grown and looks to Sinead to confirm that which she does but it doesn't look like she's sharing the enthusiasm. Chesney tries to big up the weather in Portugal but Sinead's descriptions were more realistic (warmer than Weatherfield but not that warm and it was rainy). Tyrone arrives home but he's still trying to convince himself that Hope will be let out. He's feeling down, though, thinking all he wanted to do was make Lapland for Hope, not spend all the time seeing the inside of a hospital.

Tim and Craig are having their works Christmas party at the cafe, enjoying a feast. Craig wonders if they're going to do a Secret Santa but Tim scorns that idea. Kevin comes in for a coffee. He chats to Anna about the plans for the big day. She says Izzy and Jake will be there but mainly it will be low key. Tim tells Craig he's going to do all of his Christmas shopping when they're done. All of it. He figures by that time the shops will be quieter.

Outside, Mary and Yasmeen are walking through the tree lined street while the Weatherfield elves are still finishing up their work on the decorations. Mary can't wait to see that cheeky little face though she's actually referring to Brendan's primarily, but Hope's as well. She tells Yasmeen that Brendan is taking her to a fancy hotel tomorrow, a two course extravaganza with option for pudding (which doesn't sound like much of an extravaganza to me). She rushes off. Across the road, Kirk, Chesney and Sinead are attempting to make the snow machine work. Sinead is getting worried that Hope won't be home. Down by the pub, Billy observes the work and says Tyrone is doing an amazing job. Luke foretells an even bigger surprise for tomorrow. Sally and Beth are trimming one of the other trees. Sinead calls for the lights to be tested. Kevin asks Tyrone when Hope will be home and he finally admits they don't know for sure when. Roy compliments Tyrone on the spectacle but he worries it's all for nothing. Roy points out he would still have given many people pleasure but Tyrone hasn't done it for anyone but Hope. Tyrone turns and thanks everyone for helping and admits it looks like Hope won't be home. He's heading inside for a quiet night in with Ruby. He apologizes to all the dismayed faces.

After the break, we're at the prison visiting room where Robert and Rob are assessing each other across the table. Rob is smug and full of attitude but Robert is cool and collected. He warns Rob he's not threatened by someone with a designated bedtime. Point to Robert, I think. It looks like it's starting to be a bit of a one upmanship competition.

We cut to Number 1 where Ken is looking at Deirdre's photo. Tracy loves that photo of "sexy specs". They are both clearly missing Deirdre. Ken places the smiling photo back on the sideboard.

David brings Max back. He's got a remote control car he's got from Grandma Marion. Kylie admires it and sends him into the kitchen to play with it there. Kylie apologizes for snapping at him. He moves back and accepts the apology. They're awkward with each other. Kylie calls up for Lily to come down while David goes into the kitchen. Doesn't look like he's ready to make things up.

Rob says he wanted to tell Robert that Tracy has been visiting him. He tells Robert he might be getting out on a technicality and will be a free man. He reckons Tracy was just waiting for the right time to tell him. Robert figures Rob is deluded but Rob, feeling he has the upper hand here, describes what he thinks Tracy's recent behaviour has probably been like, late hours, rubbish excuses and all that. That's a point scored by Rob though Robert doesn't let it look as if it's getting to him. On the other hand, Robert has had enough and decides to leave. He seems to think Rob is just winding him up but when Rob mentions Amy's violin lessons, Robert's face flickers with doubt. Rob takes great pleasure in scoring his final point, telling Robert that Tracy wants to spend the rest of her life with him. Robert might think that it's in his favour that Rob is behind bars and he's not and fires his own parting shot by telling Rob he's asking Tracy to marry him tomorrow. Happy Christmas. As he walks away, Rob's face also seems to say "that didn't quite go as I hoped". I wouldn't count Rob out just yet, though. I'm sure he'll find a way to counterattack.

At the Connor flat, Johnny brings out their mother's special decorations which Aidan and Kate lovingly put on the little tree. They remember their dear departed Mum with a toast to her. The door buzzes and Johnny lets Carla in. She's dropping off cards. They exchange a few jokes before she leaves, Johnny looking thoughtful in her wake.

Mary is waxing eloquently in the pub, finishing off a story and bending Billy's ear. Tim arrives in the pub, having survived the hustle and bustle of a "heaving" city centre. Kevin asks what he's got Sally. He pulls up a shopping bag from a garden centre, delightfully labeled "Lady Garden" (yes, they really went there!) He's bought her some items that are not very romantic (a kneeling pad for one!) Kevin describes a few more likely ideas, one of which is a subscription to somewhere that will put fresh flowers in the house all year round. Anna is impressed. (Too bad Kevin never thought along those romantic lines when he was actually married to Sally!) Tim thinks they're all winding him up and he pulls out a garden trowel painted all over in a floral pattern. What's not romantic about a girly trowel? Mary and Billy's grimaces are quite specific about what's not romantic about that.

Kylie's sorting out a tray of goodies for Santa. David cruelly tells her that they have no passion or love, and there's nothing if there were no kids. She is speechless and he says she can't even find the energy to argue with him. He cynically hisses that he's really looking forward to tomorrow and slams the door on his way out.

Tyrone is flipping through some paper and finds a door knob sign that tells Santa to stop there. He tells Ruby they should go outside and put it on the door and puts his coat on. He wraps her up in a blanket to take her outside. He sees the snow machine still not working but Chesney says his mate is bringing a part and Michael says the lights will work once Kevin mends the fuse. Tyrone sighs that it was going to be magical. From behind him, Fiz says it still can be. She has brought Hope home. Hope runs to her daddy and Tyrone's face lights up as he hugs both little girls. Down the road, Tracy and Amy are having hot chocolate with soy milk when Robert arrives. He says it's been an interesting day. He reckons it's going to be a Christmas to remember. Kevin runs back to Tyrone's and the lights come on. Everyone cheers as Tyrone tells Hope that Santa is coming tonight!

Tvor

I am standing in for Margaret for the first half of this hour long programme. I will however post in two sections as it is otherwise just too long.

Written by Julie Jones and directed by Judith Dine, copyright is the property of ITV to whom many thanks.

Events commence with a view of the snow lying on the Street which brings smiles to the faces of Tracy and Amy. Kylie and Max have made a snowman and Lapland is also on show to Hope and Ruby (who seems unimpressed) as Fiz pulls back the curtain. Ty and Kev are arranging the last decorations on the trees lining the Street. All the residents are wishing one another a Happy Christmas and Tim and Sal emerge - she wants her path clearing and NOW. Liz calls her "Mrs Bucket" after a well known comedic character! Liz and 'Chelle are in the pjs and dressing gowns enjoying the snow. Liz reckons it is like being trapped in a massive snow globe. Tim hits Kev with a snowball. Ty and Kev respond in like until Norris emerges and tells them all off like six year olds! The three of them have a group hug. David walks along the Street carrying a bag as he returns from Audrey's. Ken and Eccles have matching Xmas jumpers - gift from Amy!

Inside Number One Amy is unwrapping with gusto. Until she reaches a very think book (a dictionary) from Ken who gets thanked by Amy wanting to look up swear words. [I always use a tablet these days]. Apparently Eccles' jumper squeaks as well! Tracy and Rob agree to do presents later in private.

Ty has got wellies for the children and there are presents everywhere. Fiz wonders if they will be living off bread and dripping for the next year (ehhh upp lass - we know you will not even be able to afford that!). There is a knock at the door and Cathy and Roy come in. Roy thinks the fake fur hat she is wearing makes her a dead ringer for Lara (Julie Christie) in Dr Zhivago. {He wishes}. More pressies.

Tim has a love poem to read (yes he can now!).
Our first Christmas as we,
Just my lovely lady wife and me,

Sal finds it hard to believe that she has her first ever Christmas with just two people and she can do whatever she likes. Tim says he needs to see Faye and Sal needs to see Kevin and they will both be free {when she says Kev I think she means Sophie}. Tim asks if when they get back she will have her wicked way with him again? She offers him a little pressie bag. He opens it to find some very skimpy underwear for her which they can both enjoy.

Nick and Carla are walking along the Street. It appears they are seeing all the families including Roy this Christmas instead of going somewhere hot and sunny! Tim finds Anna and Faye with long faces as their intended destination of Izzy's is off as she is not well. Tim immediately offers them lunch; Anna tries to decline but Faye insists. Anna thinks Sal might demur but Tim assures them he is master in his own house!

Mary tells Dev the children are restless. (He is trying to wrap bicycles). Apparently one year Mary and her fabled mother made a Venus de Milo from snow - in a bra and liberty bodice. The food is ready - but Mary will not be sharing as she has a date elsewhere.

Kev has a rock solid turkey which he is going to defrost using a hair dryer. Sal tells them they will get struck down with salmonella. Kev and Soph argue over who forgot to take it out of the freezer [quick thanks to Katie who took mine out of the freezer as we were a long way from home]. Kev has some turkey twizzlers (I thought Jamie Oliver had killed them off). Sophie appeals to her mother to prevent them starving to death and she relents and says they can come over.

Kirk is a green elf as Ty and family arrive for presents. Fiz suggests he wears it more often and Beth thinks he is sexy. Caitlin and Craig have the same shirt - a picture of Ai Weiwei - which needs explaining. Caitlin has to go and help her father with the cooking. Kirk gave Beth some chocolate massage oil and a heart! Chesney gave Sinead a mini-chopper (oh dear the lad has something to learn).

Roy is explaining the Winter Solstice to Nick and Carla. Carla has given Roy a cardigan - which he likes and as Carla points out it is identical to the one he has already got minus the bobbly bits adds Cathy.

Ken wants to know when Robert is proposing. Deirdre would be pleased, Robert is giving nothing away. Nessa arrives with a Lady Gaga wig for Amy. Ken has a cycle bell - she has also got him a bicycle to go with it! She thought they could go for rides together (remind me how old is Ken?). Tracy observes that Nessa did not get a meat dress for Amy but Nessa reminds us she is a vegetarian. Ken invites Nessa to stay for lunch. At the front door Todd offers Tracy a fabulous present.

Nick and Carla are now at David's and Gail is offering Dutch eggnogs all round. With brandy, so Carla has a large one. Bethany is waving tiny bootees at mum to be Sarah who has not heard from Callum. Audrey says they are all glad to see the back of him - Outer Mongolia hopefully says Gail whilst David observes that he sometimes feels a lot closer than that. Kylie snaps at him. Gail has canapes which is much to Sarah's surprise - all very upmarket - Freshcos bargain bin 50 for a fiver according to David. Gail is the only one not amused.

Obviously Tracy has not bought Todd a present. No ring yet he establishes and what will your answer be Tracy? Time for a break.

Lunchtime and Craig's plate is groaning at the edges. Sinead is snapping at Chesney - all is not well between them obviously. Ty has brought crackers - but there is a pink one he will not give to anyone. And he forgotten something so rushes out.

Present unwrapping at Norris's includes Rita and Emily. Rita has an electric foot warmer. And Mary has given Emily an exercise DVD. Norris has done 75 years without lycra and he is not going to funk it up doing the exercises. Mary is having her first romantic assignation on Christmas Day. Rita says that Brendan must think a lot of her to escape his wife and family on this particular day. Mary just feels sorry for them trapped in a loveless marriage. Rita's face implies she is not so sure.

Ken is contemplating Deirdre's photo. Leanne and Simon have appeared and she just wants a cup of tea. The latter remains lacking in politeness as he grabs some biscuits. Tracy does not know why Ken allows Nessa to stay. She reckons it is all too much too soon. Amy is helping Rob with the carrots as Tracy goes outside for fresh air. Granny Deirdre and Amy used to cook together - it was a right laugh. Amy calls her cooking terrible. She would say "It's gone wrong, don't worry we'll bodge it"! Amy tells Robert she is glad he is there, he is the best of many blokes Tracy has had - nearly as good as her dad, so he can be dad number two if he likes. Tracy overhears and smiles.

Cracker pulling time at Beth's. The pink one gets pulled and an engagement ring emerges - Sinead thinks it is from Chesney but Ty rapidly recovers it. Sinead is very much out of sorts now.

Sal descends the stairs wearing her dressing gown. She tells Tim he could have had this to wear and takes off the dressing gown, apparently not wearing much! He stares as she goes back upstairs.

Chesney apologises to Sinead - but it does not cut much ice. Anyway Ty has a surprise and they go outside. There is sunshine, a band playing "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" with carol singers, tables and chairs, Roy has refreshments and even Yasmeen joins in. And with everyone out of their houses two "reindeer" pull a sleigh around the corner with Santa waving and wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. Kevin, Chesney, Andy and Luke are taking the part of the reindeer and the ensemble is led by a rather large elf. Even Norris eventually stops carping.

Caz arrives at the Connor flat and announces she is taking Kate to a hotel in town. But Kate wants to spend the day with her family - they have not yet Mum's recipe Christmas pud yet. Kate suggests they go later in the evening. And Kate will do a fry up in the morning.

Back at the Platt's happiness seems to reign. Sarah wants a brandy snap but David says she has done nothing today. Sarah observes she is growing a baby and is exhausted. The entire household call her bone idle more likely. Gail would like hard working, good looking, responsible Nick to be a father and she is sure Carla would make a lovely mum. And all those designer clothes for the baby thinks Gail who claims she slept in a drawer when she was little. Audrey disputes this. Audrey wants to know if there is a wedding date but Nick says not yet. Carla's fourth husband - but Gail has had six. Gail says Carla reminds Gail of herself. Sarah disputes a says that Carla is cool. Gail continues observing that Nick is in fact marrying his mother! Max just wants to see Santa and Sarah cannot be bothered to move. David tells Kylie to stay put and just do the washing up.

Outside the Street residents are all smiling (apart from Luke who is the rear end of one of the reindeer. Rita leads the singing, arm in arm with Norris. Sal and Tim are dancing and he says Roy's mince pie was the best he has ever had. Sal stops dancing and Tim amends that to the second best mince pie. She hopes he is looking forward to dinner and he says he is starving.

Billy tells Santa that they are both busy at this time of year. Billy offers Santa a wee dram - and then coughs - he keeps Cinzano Bianco in his hip flask!

Tracy observes to Rob that this is amazing and so romantic, but no hints are being taken today.

Fiz tells Ty it is all completely perfect. Ty has not done yet and he drops to one knee, she means everything to him - his entire world. Does she fancy marrying him? Yes Yes she responds jumping up and down on the spot. The occupants of the Street applaud. Behind the happy couple we can see Tracy's face which is a complete picture of missing out. And elsewhere Sinead also looks very put out and is comforted by Beth. Fiz is still jumping for joy as we go into the next break.

I will post the next part a little later.

Regards

K Richard Whitbread

Hi everyone. Great holiday. Never been to Thailand before and this was less sightseeing and more relaxing than our normal breaks. Catching up with the soap backlog took until 3 January and that was with some dedicated watching. Thanks to Diane and Martin for standing in and no doubt they are awaiting my next absence with bated breath as I am spending the last of the retirement pay off with a long trip down under.

Written by Julie Jones and directed by Judith Dine, copyright is the property of ITV to whom many thanks.

After the second advert break the action opens in a posh hotel where an anxious Mary waits for her prince charming to arrive. Her phone beeps with a picture of the twins enjoying Christmas and she looks up hopefully every time a new face comes through the doors.

Rob offers to help Ken clear up the mess inside Number One. But Ken demurs - Rob has done his share by cooking. Tracy claims she stirred the gravy and Nessa observes that she is good at stirring. Rob offers the leftover mushy peas to Amy for her breakfast which is swiftly rejected. Nessa offers to make coffee. She heads into the kitchen and as we all do swipes some turkey from the carcase. All except vegetarians - which she seems to have forgotten she has become. Amy catches her at it! Amy blackmails Nessa for a fabulous pair of shoes in the sales for £10. Nessa coughs up.

Along the Street Ty is having a great time and Fiz is amazed by it all. They are happily engaged but sadly Scout, sorry Sinead, is put out because she thought Ches was going to make an honest woman of her. Ruby and Hope have been treated like princesses today. But Hope just wants to know she is getting better. As we all do.

Amy is another little princess - as the offspring from a divorce she gets two sets of presents. And Steve will have overcompensated because he is away in Spain. Rob says he will join them at the Rovers once he has finished tidying the place. Tracy admits to him that she was dreading today - first Xmas sans Deirdre and likely to be one big misery fest. But in fact they have all had a good day and that is down to Robert's efforts [there used to be a rule in soaps about not having two characters with the same name - here the Street has boobed as telling Rob and Robert is only solved by the prison uniform worn by the former]. Robert has lifted everyone's spirits. He was essential to the day going so well.

Sal says that fairy lights hide a multitude of sins. Anna reckons it is amazing how Tyrone got it all together. Kev reckons Sal has the best roast potatoes in Weatherfield and Anna likes the way she has decorated the house. "Stuffing Tim" says Sal "I want stuffing". Tim looks surprised. "From the fridge" she adds and he understands. Anyway all are grateful to Sal for saving the day. At the fridge Tim tells her that he still fancies her and her underwear! They kiss. Anna thanks Sal for the invitation. Faye agrees saying it is dead posh. All is sweetness and light although Jack did not manage to get a word in edgeways.

Along at the Rovers Amy arrives for her pressies and Michelle take her through to the back. They will be Skypeing Steve so he can see everything. Norris observes that Ken is a rose between two thorns (Nessa and Audrey). Nessa needs to get back to get going. Tracy and Robert arrive and decide to sit separately to the rest of the family. Todd wants to know where the ring is - Tracy is expecting a proposal imminently. She has decided that Robert is the man for her. She will dump Rob next week. She loves him and reader she is going to marry him. She has been practising her acceptance face. She is expecting a massive PDA (public demonstration of affection).

Mary is still on her own with the jollities going on all around her. She is doing a word search puzzle. A waiter asks if she will be dining today? Crying she leaves. No knight on a white charger for Mary this year.

Nick is sleeping and Gail is talking in her sleep! Carla and Kylie are washing up. Carla tells Kylie she used to be after all the bad boys too - constant fighting, and then making up. She says that she reckons David and Kylie are pretty stormy and admits that she and Nick have had a discussion over who had the worst family. Nick is a great bloke says Kylie but if she were with him she would be bored out of her mind. Carla denies boredom - she is content. Which Kylie reckons is the kiss of death. Carla says Nick is the one who is going to save her from herself. Kylie does not want to be saved. She reckons David gives it the verbals - but when he is with the kids he is soft and daft and lovely. But when they fall out it is a total nightmare. When it works David is the best she has had.

Back at Sal's they are playing Charades. Kev fails to describe "Its Raining Men". Kev's phone goes - the best are on it being Joanne. Kev reckons she is a bit too keen.

David is drinking at the Rovers with Gavin or Andy and Steph. Sinead drunkenly tells him he is great! Ken is waiting for Robert to pop the "question". Tracy wants her Xmas pressie. She admits to Robert that she found the ring a few days ago. Robert stands and brings out the ring. There is a wide smile on Jaws' (sorry that should be) Tracy's face. Sean announces an imminent engagement. And instantly the whole pub looks at the couple. Sean suggests asking Billy and making it a hat trick for the day.

Rob admits he wants to ask Tracy a question. "Last week why did you tell Rob Donovan that you want to spend the rest of your life with him?". The entire room gasps. Tracy fails to use her surprise acceptance face and looks around looking bereft.

We will take a break.

Tracy tells Robert that she loves him so much. She denies seeing Rob - but that lie collapses. Robert recounts his visit to prison. Rob will get out and Liz observes that Rob will prefer to stay in prison than get back with Tracy! Robert has had enough and goes. Tracy says she felt sorry for Rob - but she really wants to be with Robert. He tells her they are done. Ken restrains Tracy and tells her that Robert needs time to calm down. She tells the audience to stop gawping and to get a life.

Carla and Nick - the sleeping human dynamo - arrive late at the Connors flat. All parties seem to have had a good day. The phone rings and the display shows it is Rob and Carla grabs the phone and answers it. He is surprised as she wishes him Merry Christmas. They are both "great" to hear the other's voice! They admit to missing each other. Nick observes to Aidan that this is the first time they have spoken since Rob's conviction. Johnny rambles about the need to either put things right or live with it but his children have no idea what he is blathering on about. He does not want to hurt anyone - they need to understand that. Aidan tells him to sit down and take a deep breath. Rob notices a warden and he ends the call but he will call Johnny.

Mary arrives in the Rovers and gets a gossip update. Dev asks after her assignation and she tells him it was perfect - but then clams up saying a lady does not kiss and tell. Mary goes on to say that it is a day she will not forget for the rest of her life. Dev offers her a drink but she says she is going home. She claims she had oysters which are upsetting her. Dev does not fall for her story.

Sinead reckons David is the spitting image of Bradley Cooper! Steph thinks she means Idris Elba! A minskirted and booted Kylie arrives, sits down and snogs David's face off. She tells him that she is not going to be "that " couple - miserable, joyless and stuck in a rut. It is not them. They deserve a life together. She loves him like mad even if he is a pain in the backside. He snogs her back. She wants to get home and give him one, sorry his birthday present.

Pissed off Tracy reckons that Battersby is smirking at her! Leanne tells her that she is glad that Robert has found out what Tracy is really like (I think he knew - they were married after all). They argue. Tracy attacks Leanne but is immediately pulled off. Liz orders Ken to take Tracy home. Leanne says she will go. Tracy was going to wipe the floor with her. Eva follows Leanne. Again Tracy tells them all to stop gawping, the show is over. Leanne comes back in and pushes a snowball into Tracy's face, wishing her a Happy Christmas. The pub is amused.

Back at the Connors they are eating and Johnny appears to have recovered. Caz is trained in CPR if he hits the deck. Johnny reckons she is also clumsy! He just needs to lay off fatty foods (whilst eating Christmas pud)! Carla nearly chokes on the lucky coin. She wishes for joy and happiness through 2016. Kate observes that having said it out loud it will not come true.

Kev is getting ready to leave Sal's and Anna finds him under some mistletoe and the inevitable happens and they share a kiss.

Rob and Ken are sharing a whisky and Robert is saying it was wrong to think Tracy had changed. Ken calls her selfish and manipulative and completely devoid of any sense of decency. Tracy comes in and says she knows it looks bad - but can she explain? Ken tells her to get out of his sight. She storms upstairs (will she stay there for 10 years this time?).

Everyone is out on the Street as Ty and Fiz and the children watch through a window. "Have yourself a merry little Christmas" is sung and there are smiles on many faces. Nick kisses Carla. Fiz says the day has been magical. Ty is still saying that everyone contributed.

And most of the cast are on the Street and sing "We wish you a Merry Christmas And a happy new year". Then we cut to then unhappy face of Mary who is crying. ALso Tracy storms out of Number One carrying a bag. Sally and Tim run home - I think we can guess why they are moving so quickly. Beth moves to comfort Tracy. And it snows again.

Roll credits

Regards

K Richard Whitbread

Written by Debbie Oates Directed by Durno Johnston

Liz and Amy walk along the street chatting about this, that and nothing. Amy then asks if she can go on a bike ride with Grandad Ken and the Loch Nessa Monster which shocks Liz but amuses her as well. Liz spies Johnny across the road on the bench and sends Amy inside with the milk and walks across to see Johnny who is lost in thought. He affirms he's not heard the DNA results yet. It's clearly on his mind and he can't look Kate in the eye by now. He tells Liz that the results will be emailed to him so the slow Christmas Post isn't even getting in the way (but the lab is probably slower this time of year). Liz asks if it's possible it could be a negative result. Johnny thinks it's possible but not probable.

Michelle and Carla are tossing a coin in the cafe to see if she should play in the tournament or not. She is of the mind that it's all macho play and it should be about negotiating and signing the contract. Roy asks when the tournament is, and is told it's tonight so he offers Carla a ticket to an event he's going to and Mary had bowed out due to experiencing pre-migraine symptoms. Carla doesn't give him a chance to say what the event is and promises to go with him, perfect excuse, she can't let Roy down, can she? Roy retrieves the ticket and makes a plan to meet at 5, telling her there should be some very close games. He walks over to another table while Carla turns over the ticket. Her face falls. Chess. Michelle laughs! So did I!

Kirk and Craig are practicing ping pong on the tiny dining table lined across the middle with various items such as a makeup bag and Christmas card. Tracy is in the kitchen with Beth, having stayed over. She reckoned she was kidding herself about marrying Robert and sighs that Rob is her soul mate. A ping pong ball bounces off her forehead and she snatches it, then notices the makeup bag on the table is hers. She retrieves that angrily.

Over at Number 1, Ken brings a sausage butty out to Robert and tells him Tracy is a fool. He doesn't think people can go backwards and wonders what he did to deserve Tracy. He fetches the post as he speaks and then stops short. There's a Christmas Card addressed to he and Deirdre. One of those things that makes your heart catch in your throat. He sits down with a sigh.

Tracy and Beth are still analyzing the whole situation. Tracy is not only angry with Rob for dumping her in public, she's also angry at Rob for rubbing Robert's nose in it and she wants an apology but confirms she really does want to make it work with Rob. Kirk and Craig, in the other room, each want the other to "ask her", saying they're both scared of her. Craig loses the draw and turns to Tracy, asking "Can we have our ball back, please?" Tracy grins and says they can but she crushes it first.

Ty and Fiz unload the children from the car. Sinead comes by and asks if they've set a date. They haven't and want to get Hope's scan (Wednesday) and all the rest over with first. Sinead is sure everything will work out. Fiz wonders if Chesney is going to propose and promises to drop hints then suggests they could have a double wedding. Sinead thinks Fiz and Tyrone shouldn't share their day with anyone, a fairy tale. She heads to the shop, Luke arrives with a joke about expensive weddings, too. Billy also comes by and assures them he does weddings and he's cheap.

Emily is reading a card from her niece Freda and wishing she'd heard from Geoffrey (Spider) so she would know he's ok. She can't remember where he was the last time she heard from him. Norris is pecking away at his tablet and not really listening. He's emailing the Council about dog mess on the pavements. That gives Emily an idea, she's going to email Geoffrey and digs out a card with his email address on it. "spider@..."

Johnny keeps checking his phone. Aidan comes out with the team list for the tournament. The members will get to practice all day which puts Sally's nose out of joint. The team consists of Aidan, Johnny, Kate, Kirk and ... Eva? Sally notices that the ping pong table is wobbling a bit and Izzy offers to call Gary to fix it. Johnny backs out as he's a bit rusty. Sally is shocked that Eva gets to play but Eva says she just needs practice. Carla tries to impress on Aidan that the contract is the more important thing, not the tournament, "macho nonsense" she calls it. Aidan is distracted, watching Eva, but assures Carla he will let the O'Driscoll's team win overall even if they can win a game or two. Most of the team will likely lose with Kate already agreeing to throwing a game. Aidan's competition genes are already fired up to play against Ritchie O'Driscoll and plans to beat him personally. Carla reminds him...contract, get it signed. He says he knows what he's doing.

Tracy leaves Number 5 but sees Robert and Ken outside Number 1. Robert has his belongings in a couple of bags and is leaving. Tracy's phone rings, it's Rob and she nips back inside Number 5 to take the call because Robert is walking in her direction. Nessa drives up with the bikes attached to the back of her car, ready for the bike ride she has planned.

Inside Number 5, Tracy is scolding Rob and tells him she's dumped Robert who didn't get a chance to propose. She is coming in for a visit today. Rob pretends that he did it because he's "haunted" by thoughts of Tracy with anyone else. He then tells her he has news but wants to see her face when he tells her. She agrees to come. He hangs up and tells his cellmate that Tracy is definitely coming in.

Nessa is in the pub asking Michelle if she's got a "pumpy thingy for a bicycle". Audrey is stood at the bar as well. Michelle thinks she has one so goes to the back to fetch it. Audrey wonders what Nessa is thinking buying a man in his 70s a bike. Nessa smugly points out that Ken is still vibrant and vigorous. Audrey suggests that she herself just cares about Ken's health and safety and Nessa is just trying to shuffle him off. If looks could kill! Michelle brings out the pump, Nessa takes it and leaves. Johnny is sitting at the other end of the bar, looking distracted and checking his phone constantly. Michelle suggests he go back to work but he orders another scotch instead. She reckons people ought to switch off the phone sometimes. What could be so important, she questions. His phone bleeps just then and he blanches. Michelle asks if he's ok. "I don't know. I think I'm about to find out, though"

After the break, Johnny is in the back room with Liz, hesitating to look at the email. He knows everything will change when he finds out. She insists the only change will be that he knows the truth. He hands her the phone to look for him and yes, as expected, the result is positive. He sits down, overwhelmed. He remarks that if met his younger self, he'd smack him across the head and urge him to tell the truth straight away, back in the day. He thinks he's going to have to pay off Rob.

Gary has fixed the ping pong table. He charges 20 quid but will give a discount if Aidan can beat him. The challenge is that if Aidan wins, he doesn't have to pay but if Gary wins, he'll double it to 40. Game on! Something tells me it's going to be a tough match. Most everyone backs Gary except Eva and Sally (the eternal suck-up). Eva plays cheerleader and Gary gets the first serve. Aidan suddenly looks a bit nervous.

In the Kabin, Norris is nattering to Billy about dog mess when Emily arrives. She wants Norris' password for the tablet. She wants to download a video chat thingy to talk to Geoffrey. Turns out he's in Peru working. Norris won't give her the password. Billy suggests that most people use their pets or children which isn't going to help in this case. Norris is surprised that Spider's in Peru working. Billy, of course, doesn't realize and thinks Norris really is talking about working spiders in Peru. Confused, he nips out of the shop. Norris says he'll come home once Mary takes over (would that be the Mary that has a migraine coming on? she told Roy but I guess forgot to tell Norris). Norris tries to defend his decision but Emily wonders if he is embarassed by his password. Norris looks shifty.

Liz brings Johnny a drink. Johnny is wondering how he's going to raise the money. Liz doesn't think 10 grand will shut up Rob. Johnny is scared that if it gets out, he loses everything. Liz insists Rob isn't going to be satisfied with one payment and tells him he has to tell Carla the truth. Take control.

Rob arrives in the visiting room with his cellmate who is anxious to see the outcome of whatever it is Rob has planned. Rob joins Tracy and smiles at her. She makes him apologize for bringing Robert into the mix and asks how he found out about him in the first place. Tracy wants to know everything before she forgives him.

Fiz and Sinead are already bubbling about wedding plans and telling Tyrone they're going to have a session with all the bridal magazines to cut out ideas for a fantasy wedding. Fiz thinks it will help distract Hope. Tyrone looks nervous at the prospect of the cost. Sinead takes off as does Fiz, leaving Tyrone looking apprehensive.

Gary and Aidan are playing a furious game, which Gary wins. Aidan wants a rematch while the onlookers joke and tease. Kirk thinks they should put Gary on the team, but he's not on staff, Aidan reminds them. And Carla reminds them that she wants them to lose anyway. Caz arrives but Kate has been sent out to find Johnny and hasn't come back. Caz takes out her phone to call Kate to find out where she is, Carla reckoning they're probably in the pub. Gary figures if Johnny isn't going to be there, they will need him so he and Aidan go off to discuss tactics. (Carla had suggested Gary could be termed a contract worker!) Carla then tells Sally that she's in charge of reminding Aidan that they need to lose and to make sure that contract gets signed.

Rob tells Tracy he can't apologize and would do the same again. It's hell being locked up, in case she's forgotten. She hasn't. She assures him that Robert won't have anything to do with her again. He leans in, pleased to hear it. She thinks his jealousy is sexy and apologizes for lying to him. All she wants is to make things work with him and has burned all her bridges. He seems very pleased to hear that. She asks what the good news is, is it about the appeal? He has a strange grin on his face and says "sort of" but prolongs things by sending her to get a cup of tea. Oh, I don't think this is going to end well.

Carla sees Johnny come out of the pub as she's on her way home to get changed, telling him she's got a date with a chessboard. He wants to have a catch up, now, please. When she asks, he says no, he's not all right and takes her by the arm to go to his flat.

Tvor

Written by Debbie Oates and directed by Durno Johnston

Johnny and Carla arrive at his flat. He offers her glass of wine to steel himself for the news he's about to impart. But before he can say any more, Kate and Kaz appear from the direction of the bedroom. Johnny asks what they've been up to and adds, on second thoughts, not to answer that one.

In the prison, Tracy sits opposite Rob, eagerly awaiting his good news. "Did I say it was good?" asks Rob and then proceeds to put Tracy in the picture. He's not getting out of prison any time soon and now he's got his own back. Tracy's face falls as Rob tells her what he's done to her and Robert. She starts screaming like a fishwife before being frog-marched out by the prison warders.

In the Rovers the regulars are taking bets on how long Ty will last at home, listening to wedding plans, before escaping and coming in for a drink. Michelle picks up the phone behind the bar. We hear her ask Ken whether he intended to ring the pub.

Over at one of the table Norris is explaining to Emily how to use his tablet so that she can message Spider on-line. Emily assures him she's not a total technophobe – her husband Ernest once had a CB radio.

Michelle asks Ken if he's sure he doesn't need an ambulance. When she comes off the phone she explains to the others that Nessa has fallen off her bike and hurt her ankle so they need a lift home. Audrey immediately offers to go. She passes Ty coming in on her way out. Kevin is particularly pleased to see him as he's won the bet.

Johnny's playing for time by talking to Carla about a family holiday they all took together when she was a child. Kate and Kaz finally leave to go to the table-tennis tournament and Carla says she really must go too as Roy will be waiting. Johnny persuades her to stay, he really has to talk to her, but asks her to promise she won't say anything to his kids. Carla looks concerned – does he have some kind of health problem? Her phone rings – it's Roy – but Johnny tells her not to answer it. He suggests she might want to sit down.

At the factory everyone from the Underworld team have assembled. O'Driscoll arrives with his wife and tells them the others have been delayed by traffic but they're on their way.

Over at the Bistro Robert is getting stressed by some awkward customers. Todd comes in wanting to know if Robert knows where Tracy is as he has an awkward customer of his own. The woman claims they're selling some jewellery that belongs to her and she's threatening to call the police. Robert mutters under his breath how ironic that is, just as ‘lover boy' is about to get out.

Johnny is still trying to tell Carla his news but he's going round the houses. He mentions Liz during his ramblings so Carla works out that whatever the news is, Liz already knows about it. Carla tells Johnny to either come out and say it or she'll save him the stress by going to ask Liz. She gets up to go and finally, as she's about to walk out of the door, Johnny tells Carla that he's her dad. Carla turns around and stares at him.

Carla is confused. She had a dad. Johnny says that he and her mum never told a soul about what happened. Carla asks if Johnny knew all along that he was her father. He says he suspected it but he put it to the back of his mind. Carla looks totally shocked and asks why Johnny is telling her about this now. He says he didn't want her to hear it from anyone else and begs her not to tell Kate. Carla still wants to know why it was so urgent that he suddenly needed to tell her. Johnny finally admits that Rob is blackmailing him. Carla storms out before Johnny can say another word.

At the factory the tournament is underway. When Kate wins her match Aidan pulls her to one side – they're supposed to try and lose so that they'll get the order from O'Driscoll. But Kate is more interested in the girls keeping their end up. Eva lost her match so why shouldn't she win hers?

Audrey arrives back at the Rovers with Nessa who, following a session with a pack of frozen peas, appears to be making a speedy recovery from her ankle injury. Ken is the one who's suffering as he's having to wheel both bikes back.

Emily is telling Rita and Norris about Spider who has been working for the last 8 months helping children in a school in Peru. Norris can't imagine anyone wanting to spend that long in Peru and considers it irresponsible. Emily says she wishes she'd been a bit more irresponsible when she was younger. She asks Norris if she can borrow his tablet again so she can make a donation to Spider's fundraising page. He's a bit cagey about his password but says he'll log her on. After he leaves Emily admits to Rita that she already knows his password and says Norris is obviously embarrassed to tell her that it's R1taKab1n.

An exhausted Ken arrives back at the Rovers. Audrey says she hopes the two of them have learned their lesson. Nessa says they have and that they thought they might look into getting a tandem.

Carla is the next to come marching in. Without missing a beat she heads straight for the back room and tells Michelle to join her.

Back at the factory, Kirk is about to play. Aidan reminds him what he has to do - he must throw the match. But Kirk misunderstands and ends up winning. The score is now 2 all and the deciding match is between Aidan and Mr O'Driscoll. "Go Mr Connor!" screams Eva, excitedly. Aidan gives her a bit of a look.

In the back room of the Rovers Carla is sharing her news with Michelle. Carla is disgusted by the fact that Johnny was aware of her horrendous upbringing but that it is only now, after being threatened with blackmail by Rob, that he's prepared to admit he's her father. She realises this also means that she was related to her husband Paul – fortunately only as a cousin though, Michelle works out. The door opens and Johnny comes in – he says Liz told him he could come through. Michelle tells him Liz had no right. Johnny says he's come to say that he'll find a way to make things right. Carla spits back that he can't know for sure that Rob wasn't lying so now Johnny has to make another confession about doing the DNA test without Carla's knowledge. This is the final straw and Michelle orders him to get out. "Carla, I'm so sorry …" says Johnny.

Leanne goes to speak to Robert in the kitchen at the Bistro. She tells him that she may not be Tracy's biggest fan but she knows that he cared about her and if he needs anything … Just then Tracy walks in through the other door. Leanne orders her to get out but Robert says it's OK. Tracy tells Robert that she's so, so sorry. He doesn't reply but simply glares at her in return.

At the factory the final match is underway when Johnny walks in. Sally whispers to him that he's got to put Mr Connor off because it's 2 all. But there's no need because O'Driscoll does indeed win and suggests they go and sign the paperwork This pleases Sally no end as it gives her the opportunity to clutch her clipboard importantly and suck up to Mrs O'Driscoll who she obviously considers to be the height of glamour and sophistication.

Back in the Bistro kitchen a tearful Tracy is trying to explain herself to Robert. She tells him her mistake was going to see Rob the first place but claims she only went there the once and Robert is the man she loves. But Robert can't believe that, even after being caught out, she's continuing to lie. Tracy tries to backpedal and admits she did go to the prison again but it was only to tell Rob that she loves Robert. Robert starts to say that even if that were true … Tracy swears on Amy's life that it is. Robert moves in close and, for a brief second, it looks as though he might kiss Tracy but instead he tells her that she's in cloud cuckoo land. He says he could never trust her and never be with her. "Stay away, I mean it!" he shouts.

Out in the street Carla sees Roy locking his door. She asks how the chess was. He looks upset and says he didn't go. They're interrupted by Johnny who wants to speak to her so Carla grabs Roy's arm and tries to walk away. Johnny insists it's important. He asks her to go to the flat but Carla says he can tell her there. Johnny says it's about Kate and Aidan. Roy looks confused. Carla says sorry for talking in code then turns to Johnny and asks what she should call him. She snarls that it doesn't seem right calling him dad. "Dad?" asks Roy. Johnny tells Carla she can be angry but please, please don't tell Kate and Aidan he begs because it will destroy them. Carla can't bring herself to reply and walks away.

Karen

Fiz is getting Hope ready to go to the hospital for her results. Tyrone picks up the post and opens a letter to find a final demand from a loan company. They're asking for over two thousand pounds immediately. There's a knock on the door, it's Roy, come to give them a lift.

Tracy is back at Ken's, begging to be allowed home, she can't stand being at Beth's any longer. Amy speaks up on her behalf, telling Ken how her mum has promised she'll do all the housework for a week. "What?" says Tracy, this is obviously news to her. However, she agrees and walks past Ken into the house. "She's not going to, is she?" says Ken to Amy.

Nick arrives to find Carla in her dressing gown, putting empty bottles in the kitchen. "Why haven't you been answering your phone?" he asks her, "what's happened?" She tells him she doesn't even know where to start.

Johnny is in the ginnel on the phone to Rob. He tells him he's told Carla the truth, so Rob's little blackmail scam isn't going to work. "What about your kids, have you told them?" asks Rob. Johnny gets angry then and tells Rob he's a little weasel and if he ever contacts him again, Johnny will contact his governor.

Kevin and Sophie are in the cafe having breakfast. He tells Anna that the builders are starting next week on his new garage expansion. Kevin says he would rather be lying on a beach somewhere, so Sophie says they should go, they could get a week in before the builders start. She says she'll look online for a good deal. Kevin tells her not to mention it to Tyrone as he's told him he can't afford to buy him out, it would look a bit insensitive.

Carla is telling Nick what Johnny has told her, and how Rob was trying to blackmail him.

Tracy is sitting at home in front of the tv, doing nothing. Amy cross examines her as to why she's not at the shop. In the end Tracy tells her she's miserable because she's lost Robert and she just wants to wallow in it. Amy tells her she should go to work, if the situation were reversed Tracy would make her go to school. Tracy then confesses that she's made a mess at the shop, throwing stuff about. Amy says she'll help clear up – she could do with extra pocket money!

Sophie goes to the garage and tells Kevin she's found a great deal on a holiday in Tenerife and asks if she should book it. Tyrone overhears this and is astounded – and not at all happy.

Emily is in the cafe talking to Billy about the volunteering opportunities in Peru. He tells her she's a courageous woman who can do anything she puts her mind to. He advises her to pray about it, to see what God thinks.

Aidan and Johnny are in the cafe, Aidan gets a phone call and is told they've just landed a big contract. He's delighted but Johnny isn't as thrilled as Aidan expected him to be. Just then Kate comes in and asks if they've seen Carla. Aidan jumps up, he's going round to Carla's to tell her about the contract in person, he can't wait to see the grin on her face. Johnny looks worried.

At the garage, Kevin tries to talk to Tyrone about the holiday. "Kev, it's fine," says Tyrone, so Kevin goes off to see the builder. When he's gone, a large bloke comes in, he was the Christmas elf that Tyrone hired, and it seems the cheque Tyrone gave him for his services has bounced. Now he wants the cash. "I haven't got it," says Tyrone. The guy tells him he wants the cash by Friday or he'll sue.

Back at Carla's flat, Nick asks what now. Carla tells him there's going to be no tearful hug and 'will you walk me down the aisle dad?'. He ignored her for 40 years, how different could Carla's childhood have been? Just then there's a buzz from the doorbell. It's Aidan, Nick suggests putting him off, but Carla wants to tell him what his dad's really like. "Why should I protect him?" she says. Nick however, suggests that he tells Aidan she's not feeling well, and Carla should go off and have a bath.

Tyrone is in the office at the garage, on the phone to the loan company, asking for a temporary extension. It seems they're not co-operating and he hangs up, exasperated. His eyes light on the petty cash tin and he opens it. He's just pulling notes out of it when Kevin walks back in. "What the hell do you think you're playing at?" he asks.

Tyrone tells Kevin he knows it looks bad, but he was going to pay it back, he was just borrowing, not stealing. "This is my business too," he reminds Kevin. Kevin reckons he was stealing, behind his partner's back. "Why didn't you just ask?" he says. "Because I was ashamed, ok?" says Tyrone. Kevin softens then, and Tyrone tells him he's in such a mess.

In the salon, Nessa is fawning over a male customer and tells Audrey they don't get enough men in and she should look at her marketing. The conversation then gets round to new year, and Nessa reckons that Ken should have a party. Just then Ken himself comes in, and Nessa tells him he should have a party, she's sure it's what Deirdre would have wanted. In the end Ken agrees and Nessa turns to Audrey and Rita. "Consider yourselves invited!"

Tyrone tells Kevin how he spent a lot on the trip to Lapland and then how he got a payday loan. All he could think was that this could be Hope's last Christmas. Kevin asks if Fiz knows, and Tyrone admits that she doesn't, she'd kill him. Kevin asks how much he owes on the loan, and Tyrone pulls the letter out of his pocket. Kevin says he'll give him an advance on his wages and he won't go on holiday. "I'd rather go to Bognor and give it to you," he says. (I actually live in Bognor, I'm sure he'd have a great time!) He makes a condition though, Tyrone has to tell Fiz.

Kate is in the pub with Johnny, who still looks worried because Aidan hasn't come back. When Kate goes to the loo, Aidan asks Michelle if she thinks Carla will have told him. Just then Aidan comes in looking very disgruntled. Johnny fears the worst, but it turns out that Aidan didn't see Carla so went to town to get a pair of shoes he wanted, only to find they'd sold out. Johnny looks visibly relieved, but Michelle mutters that it's only a matter of time.

Tracy and Amy come home after clearing up the shop. Amy can't believe what a mess Tracy had made. Tracy tells her that she's left lots of messages for Robert but he hasn't called back. Amy knows she really loves him and is sure he loves her too, but Tracy isn't so sure. "When I'm bad and you're angry, it doesn't mean you don't love me any more, does it?" says Amy. "Just keep saying sorry and being extra good, it always works for me!"

Norris and Rita are in the pub, sitting with Billy. Norris has been trying to teach Rita how to use a tablet, but they have clashed. Just then Emily comes in and announces she's going to Peru!

Ken and Nessa are sitting with Audrey. Nessa goes off talking on the phone to Cathy to see if she can help with the food for the party. Audrey tells Ken that if he doesn't want a party he should just tell her. Ken wonders if Nessa could be right, maybe Deirdre wouldn't want him sitting at home, moping. "Well, I doubt she'd want to see you shacked up with a woman like that either!" says Audrey, and then regrets it when Ken looks at her somewhat taken aback. She tells him she's not saying he shouldn't be happy, but should just make sure he's being true to himself.

Roy arrives to see Carla, he asks if she's made a decision regarding Aidan and Kate. He and Nick both think it would be best not to tell them. Carla wants one good reason not to tell them, how do they know what would or would not make her feel better? She tells them to butt out. She says she just wants Johnny to feel one ounce of the pain she has spent her whole life drinking to forget.

Fiz has put Hope to bed and comes downstairs. Tyrone tells her there's something he needs to talk about, but Fiz is upset, tearful and worried about Hope and the tumour. What if it hasn't shrunk? What if the chemo hasn't worked? Tyrone puts his arm round her, they'll deal with it. She tells him he's been so strong through all this, she doesn't know what she would do without him.

Anne Logan

I hope you all had a lovely New Year's and wish you all the best for the coming year!

Written by Susan Outdot Directed by Durno Johnston

It's New Year's Eve!

Brendan and Mary have a date and she's all excited. He's got a lot to make up for, having ditched her on Christmas Day.

Caz has to leave before the day is out so she and Kate don't get to see New Year in together. Aidan reckons they could get drunk before she goes but it's a work day. First things first. Carla and Michelle walk towards Underworld with Carla looking at Johnny who's outside the factory with trepidation but assures 'Chelle she's ok. She walks across and tries to ignore him but he wants to know if she's going to tell his other kids the truth.

We find out the results of Hope's scan today. Roy is optimistic, Fiz and Tyrone are nervous. Chesney is looking after Hope and Ruby while they're at the appointment. Kevin comes into the cafe as they leave and wishes them good luck with a pointed glance at Tyrone.

Ken is sorting out the remains of quite a number of bottles of booze to lay out for the party. You wouldn't think he'd have so much on hand as he never has been that much of a drinker and Deirdre was mainly into wine. Tracy's helping in the kitchen as well and offering to sort out the decorations. He knows she's trying to stay on his good side and recommends she leave hopes of a reunion with Robert in the dust but she's determined. He was going to propose so he must still have some of those feelings left.

Leanne and the staff are organizing a cake for Nick's birthday today though Robert's mind seems to be elsewhere. Andy and Steph start to set up the tables but Steph is upset. Sounds like her Christmas wasn't very happy with her parents still in shock and disappointment over the nude photos all over the internet. She comments that her father couldn't even look at her. Leanne asks Robert if he's ok and muses that you're never too old for your life to go through the shredder. Zeedan, wearing chef whites, comes out of the kitchen, observes their solemn faces and adds his own opinion that New Year's Eve is rubbish anyway. Thanks for that.

Billy and Emily are looking at photos of Inca ruins in Peru, in awe but Norris, newly arrived, is dismissive. They continue to look at photos of the area where Emily is going to be visiting. They talk enthusiastically about the accommodations, interjected by sarcastic comments from you know who, pointing out that she doesn't speak Spanish and there's bound to be a lot of drugs around as well. She surprises him with a few words of Spanish and urges him to have a look at photos of the school and children that they're viewing. Norris will not be moved. Billy thinks Emily will be invaluable with her experience. Norris rants about her traveling to all sorts when she could be satisfied with a day trip to Liverpool rather than prancing around the slum.

Fiz and Tyrone sit down in the doctor's office. What's the news? The chemo has shrunk the tumour and can be removed safely. They can speak with the surgeon very soon and the surgery can be done in about 3 weeks. She assures them children can cope very well with the surgery and it's very good news.

Emily is in the Kabin and Rita has heard all about Norris' negativity. Rita points out Norris is just worried about her and Emily, expressing doubt, wonders if he's right. Maybe she's too old to be flying to the other side of the world. Rita advises that all her friends seem to be dying left and right these days and life's too short. Nobody can predict the future. Time goes so quickly that they need to grab all the opportunities they can.

Nick is presented with a cake and a round of Happy Birthday from the staff. There are the inevitable jokes about getting older. Leanne laughs to Robert that at least he can hide in the kitchen and pound steak pretending it's Tracy. She notices a smudge of icing on his face and gently rubs it off just as Tracy comes in the door. She spins around and stalks out again. Carla comes in and is mortified that she didn't realize it was his birthday. She spins around, too, and charges out.

The party has started at Ken's, though it doesn't seem like it's that late in the day. It must be, though. Rita and Audrey are chatting about travel. Norris is still moaning and is roundly scolded by Rita. Emily arrives and Amy drapes a lei around her neck in keeping with the Hawaiian theme of the party. She looks quite happy and tells them she's had her flight confirmed. She's leaving tomorrow. Norris is dismayed but her other friends are delighted for her as she tells them all she may not be as sprightly as she used to be but she's certainly of sound mind and has decided to go for it. A celebratory sherry is in order!

Back at Number 9, Chesney, Roy and Cathy have been told about the surgery and are pleased that the prognosis is very good. Cathy asks Roy if he might like to go to Ken's now that he knows things are looking up, explaining to the others that Roy wasn't really very keen on the party before. But Roy then offers to babysit while Tyrone and Fiz go for a festive drink. Ty and Fiz agree, but just for one so Cathy and Roy can go to Ken's.

Connors are gathered around the bar in the Bistro. Caz's watch beeps and she reluctantly tells them she has to go. Kate's face falls in disappointment. Caz hugs them all and she and Kate have a tearful goodbye. She doesn't let Kate walk her to the bus because she won't want to get on it. Michelle comes in and sees Kate upset and hugs her while Johnny and Aidan look on in sympathy.

In the Rovers, both Anna and Mary are dressed up. Tyrone and Fiz are about to leave when Kevin comes in. He's pleased about the news of Hope and hugs them before they leave. Kevin greets Anna while Mary sips a cocktail while she waits for Brendan and eyeing her watch. She looks a bit worried but Brendan walks in and her face lights up.

Eva comes into the Bistro, looking like a million. She joins Todd, Billy and Sean. Todd tries to put in a good word for Jason but she's not interested. Aidan offers to buy a round and the two of them share flirty glances. Carla arrives with a card for Nick, a card that she had to buy from Dev's. There's an IOU inside and she promises to take him out. He smiles but Leanne pulls him away for restaurant business then gives the rubbish card a disgusted look.

Amy yawns which makes Tracy yawn as well. Cathy has noticed that Norris is inordinately interested in the pineapple and ham ball, (avoiding everyone else). Emily goes over to have a word. Rita tells the others that Norris is upset that Emily's going traveling. Cathy congratulates Ken on a lovely party though he is more interested in having a word with Audrey. They move to the front of the house. He apologizes for snapping at her earlier and values their friendship. As does she, Audrey counters but before they can say anything more, Nessa barges in with a drink for Ken, something fruity with an umbrella. She drags Ken back into the front room leaving Audrey looking disappointed.

In the pub, Luke talks to Maria on the phone. Mary tells Brendan about the party at Number 1 but he can't stay. It was difficult enough getting away for one drink. She snaps at him because he'd promised and he apologizes profusely. He promises that there will be other New Year's, there will, and he'd rather be with her. He wishes her a Happy New Year but she will only let him kiss her cheek before he leaves. Liz has seen it and comes over to give her a little hug. Mary calls Dev and tells him she's coming home early so he can go for a drink.

In the Bistro, Johnny asks Carla for a word but Kate won't allow any business talk. Carla goes to find Nick and then chickens out, asking Leanne to tell him she's gone home. Leanne tears a strip off her, accusing Carla of the inevitable, breaking Nick's heart. She tells Carla he's far too good for her and in her present mood, it looks like Carla probably agrees. All of those insecurities are bubbling up again. Nick comes out of the office but sees Steph getting upset at someone that keeps staring at her so he has to go help. Billy teases Eva about she and Aidan flirting.

Nessa remarks to Tracy that they should have got more booze in but the old'uns probably won't drink much more anyway. To her caustic question as to whether the old'uns include her father, Nessa infers that Ken still has a lot of life in him, nudge, nudge, wink, wink. Naturally, that puts Tracy off. Amy is talking to Steve on the phone, about to tell him what Nessa just said about her grandad! Mary's presence is missed among her friends. Norris tells them she's out with Brendan. The countdown to midnight begins. Tracy walks out of the room looking upset.

The countdown finishes in the Bistro where Carla is in Nick's arms. Billy and Sean joyfully embrace. Aidan and Eva kiss deeply as do Nick and Carla. She tells him she's going to leave, wanting some time on her own. She leaves after a quick kiss on Kate's cheek. Leanne is angry Carla's leaving Nick on his birthday but Nick stops Johnny from following Carla, saying he's done enough damage. Leanne lets the staff open their own bottle of champagne. Leanne calls them all to go outside to see fireworks.

At Number 1, Auld Lang Syne is sung with joined arms and hands around the room. Audrey looks thoughtful and goes into the kitchen where she finds a saddened Ken who is missing Deirdre very much and Audrey knows it. There's a moment where Audrey comforts Ken before Hurricane Nessa pulls them outside for the fireworks. He and Audrey exchange another friendly look before turning to go out.

Outside the fireworks explode in the air over the street. Most of the residents are out watching or looking through a window. Kevin and Anna are standing with each other. Kevin wishes her Happy New Year and he kisses her lightly. Tracy sees Robert from across the road. To rub her nose in it, he takes off his jacket and puts it around Leanne's shoulder. Johnny runs after Carla who rounds on him and slaps him, telling him to go back to his family.

Tvor

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

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