Once again an episode is topped and tailed by the yawningly bad saga of Gail and Martin's marital problems. I have to say I'm not too sure what the problem is here. They have presumably been using some sort of contraception all these years with no problems: even her "pregnancy scare" was no real drama. Why not continue with the Pill, cap or whatever they were using before?
Les Miserables start the episode with another row and when Alma later goes into the caf to enquire how the night of rumpeh and pumpeh went, Gail bursts into tears. Alma takes her home for a girlie talk and says she should make some sort of romantic gesture to try and win back Martin's affection. Gail decides that the way to a man's trousers is through his stomach and books a table for two at a restaurant. "And keep the red wine flowing, garcon. I'm feeling lucky!"
Over at The Kabin Blanche arrives at work, takes a deep breath and launches into one of her monologues. Apparently Rita can't even make a decent cuppa let alone manage the stock control. Blanche never stops for breathe does she? She must have gills behind her ears so that she can breathe and talk at the same time! She finishes with the announcement that she can stand no more of Rita's moaning and mithering, that she won't stay where she is not appreciated, and that she resigns. Putting her coat on she pauses on her way to the door just long enough to warn Rita "And don't try to stop me!" Rita manages to restrain the impulse to beg Blanche to stay and instead laugh in a peculiarly manic way as she realises that she didn't even have to sack Blanche.
Down at Freshco there is a strange slithering sound as the reptilian James Klingon arrives and proceeds to give Curly a roasting for the crap team he led at the Forward with Freshco weekend. He slides off to inspect the shop but his inspection seems to consist of looking down Nita's blouse whilst promising he can get her into filmsxxx sorry, into a senior management position with the international Freshco chain. Nita, whose brains are in her knickers at the moment falls for this line and agrees to have dinner with him to discuss the position he has in mind. Nita, dear, we ALL know what position he has in mind. In real life good jobs have to be fought for. The only two places great jobs fall into your lap are in soap operas and in the fevered imaginings of silly girls who are about to be seduced by smooth tongued bosses. Surely the fact that he wears purple/ royal blue shirts should warn Nita. These particular fashion faux pas have previously been sported only by Captain Tie Rack, Greg Kelly and Ian The Incredible Nodding Man. See what I mean?
Meanwhile on a galaxy far away, well, dahn Sarf in London, it is the day of Deirdre's appeal. We are not all surprised that she leaves the court without a stain on her character. She can now look forward to life as a completely innocent woman. Well, actually, she can look forward to a bowl of pasta and some cheap champers with Ken. Ken thinks it is now time to look to the future and it is obvious that he is about to propose; Deirdre interrupts him to say that she is happy just the way things are. Ken tries to look happy about this. "Well if you won't marry me can we order some red wine and get home for some rumpeh pumpeh" (Actually I made up that last bit!)
Talking of RP Janice takes great delight in letting Mike know that RLeanne is romantically involved (that's Battersby-speak for making the beast with the two backs) with Murk Monkey-Boy. Murk stands up to his Dad and tells him that he'll see whoever he likes. On a 1 to 10 scale of happiness Mike registers minus five.
Back in the Rovers Fred is catching up with the news from his old square dealer buddy Norris; realising that Norris has fallen on hard times he suggests to Rita that she takes on Norris as Kabin boy and they agree that Norris should start the next day for a trial period.
As promised, we end with more scenes from the world of the camel and Nurse Florence. Gail arrives at the hospital to surprise Martin. He'll probably go into shock when he sees what she looks like in that mac! Unfortunately Gail arrives in time to see him getting into his car with a woman and she promptly jumps to the conclusion that her man is warming his stethoscope elsewhere.
Cue credits.
Not a bad episode. The Norris/Rita plot could lead to some comic episodes but the Leanne/Murk romance is as dreary as most of the romances on Corrie these days.
That's the end of today's update. I must finish and get my smalls (well, larges) into the washing machine as I have a lunch date with a gentleman friend tomorrow. No, not the trainee librarian; I am losing hope that he will ever stamp my card!!!
All the best
Vivienne Smith
Another busy week in tv land and being distracted by the latest news that my mother is now a regular consumer of drugs I almost forgot to set the video in time. A word for our sponsors - this week Roses are coming up everywhere.
Anyway off to Weatherfield where Rita is opening the Kabin and also lets in Norris - who somewhat oddly has bought his own teapot.
We then move to the Platts as Gail asks if Martin if work was all right. Martin replies "Fine, fine". The scene is then highjacked by the new Sarah Lou coming in from her news paper round ("a hard day's work") and dropping her coat and paper bag on the floor (SFTOB - standard female teenage operating behaviour - I should know, we have three of them). She stomps off to bed and Martin and David go out to buy a Christmas Tree with Martin promising everyone that they are going to have a tree to make Father Christmas jealous. Gail has to stay home and do the washing. Martin is jolly and Christmassy.
In the Kabin Norris has put up some decorations and is having trouble ensuring that all colours of the rainbow are represented - purple appears to be missing (he wants to sing a rainbow) and he then reveals some of the missing history with Angela. How for instance he used to refer to themselves as "papermates" {in case you had forgotten Angela was a stationery magnate}, she used to laugh at this - with a note of hysteria and the time he came home from work and recounted his day and Angela ran into the garden and screamed for a full five minutes - which Norris knew because there was a timer on the cooker !!!
"Time for some new glasses" Dreary enters in the Kabin where Mike has acquired some cigars. He confirms that her freedom requires congratulations. Dreary then acknowledges that Ken will eventually get his money back. They agree on a drink to celebrate.
Linda walks into the Rovers and finds Mark with a drink and a shorter haircut (nice improvement). Mark accuses Linda of telling Mike but she reveals that A) Janice dropped him in it and is after a hat for the wedding and B) that Leanne cost the Platts money for the divorce. Linda closes by telling him never to threaten her.
A nurse (Rebecca Hopkins) is smoking as Martin arrives in the locker room. She is married to Gerry and we are brought up to date. It seems that the marriage has been going well until the subject of children was discussed. Gerry is not keen and relations between the two of them are at an all time low. She is grateful for Martin's listening ear on Friday evening. Gail did not notice Martin was late (oh yes she did). Martin says that ... should be talking to Gerry not him.
Gail is doing the washing and she is going through Martin's pockets looking at various pieces of paper (without any success) when Alma arrives to find out if the last piece of friendly advice had achieved the required rapprochement between Gail and Martin. Sadly Gail relates the events of Friday night with Martin's departure with female company. The Christmas tree is in the corner of the room. Gail dissolves into tears as we dissolve into a commercial break.
A Mumm champagne advert in the interval - is there any truth in the rumour that mentions lead to a free gift from the supplier?
Mike and Mark are in a booth discussing women. Mike almost apologises over his previous comments on finding out about Mark and Leanne. Mark responds - "When it comes to women, I am collecting not selecting" (great line lad). Mike then uses the old saying "All right to practice on, but not one to take home to your mother". Mark confirms he has no intention of taking Leanne home! {I wonder if Leanne has any thoughts on the subject}. Mark then asks how Mike ended up with Linda. He then points out that Linda is very like Leanne - only a few years difference in age.
Alma is listening to Gail's story - which as we know she has misinterpreted. Gail is convinced that Martin is up to no good but Alma seeks to reassure her that Martin is devoted to her and that there is bound to be an innocent explanation. In the light of past events for both Gail and Alma, Gail is understandably not convinced.
Leanne notices Mark's new haircut, shows off her trim figures and she then refers to Linda as a gold-digging scrubber not being at all like her. They arrange a date for later.
Betty is collecting glasses and chats to Norris who needs to find somewhere to live. She recommends the B&B and Norris says he will investigate - it is better than his current options. Betty refers to it as "cheap and cheerful"
Back at the hospital rest room, Martin and ... are chatting about the responsibilities - they had always planned for children after two years but Gerry is now trying to defer the issue for a couple of years. She says Gerry has changed and she does not like him.
The Millennium committee is meeting in the Rovers and Fred offers food at "less than commercial rates" (as he reveals to Audrey they won't know what the right rate is - Roy will though). Spider has to arrange the food for the vegetarians. A Karaoke machine is too expensive so after some discussion Les is told by Janice to do a disco for free (he wanted £50).
Norris is shown around by Vera who has cooked him a chop as a special treat for his first night. Norris confirms that the sheets had been freshly laundered.
Back at the Rovers the Millennium committee, concerned about the lack of decisions and decision taking unanimously appoints Roy as Chairman/person and Ken as co-chair person. Roy then closes the meeting. Gwen then finally gets the long awaited (in this house) talk with Jim McDonald. Jim is wearing the Regimental badge as he has been at a re-union. Gail and Alma are also in the pub talking about Martin and Sally joins them. Before Gail departs Alma tells her to do nothing hasty.
At the B&B Vera has cooked a chop for Norris who then extracts his own cutlery before asking how long the chops were cooked. She says "until done" but Norris insists that Delia would know how long they had been cooking. In future Norris requested that Vera should cook the chops for 4 minutes on a medium to high heat. He then starts eating and notes that the chops are in fact quite tasty. He also expects access to the kitchen to prepare his own breakfast.
Jim and Gwen are talking in the Rovers and we hear about her ex-husband (unable to settle down in civvy street). As long expected there seems to be a lot of common ground and we hear briefly about the twins.
Dreary arrives in the Rovers and accepts general congratulations. She then mentions Ken's book to the Committee and Emily recalls Ernest's store of pictures of the area from the time he died. We can expect a display of Weatherfield history.
Alma and Sally are gossiping over Gail's revelations. (Has Sally had her hair cut?).
Martin and the children are putting up the decorations and Gail suggests a night out on Friday night. The hospital are cutting back on overtime apparently. So why was he late on Friday - he went for a drink with some friends. Martin then starts to sort out the fairy lights. He says that they won't work -one of those great mysteries of life - after all they were working last Christmas. Gail ends the episode remarking that Martin is a man for mysteries at the moment.
Overall not such a cracker but I like the exchange between Mike and Mark and Norris is clearly intended to provide some comic interludes. Sadly I can't stand him so the two cancel each other out. I am sorry that Gail and Martin are being given a tough time. OTOH Martin's lying does not help.
I can only give it 2 out of 5 tonight but as ever I would not be without it! Be back next week, if I ever get back from Aldermaston.
Yet again an episode opens in the minuscule kitchen of the Platt's des res and features the further marital misadventures of the Street's very own Mr and Mrs, Gail and Martin Platt. Thank goodness these two never appeared on that famous show or Derek Batey would have resigned in despair. They never talk to each other, do they? Martin communications skills are limited to tutting and eyebrow raising whereas Gail talks to every female in the Street who might sympathise with her imagined predicament. Gail seems to have entered a mid-life wardrobe crisis; after her previous outing in stilettos and padded 'mac, this morning she is wearing a strange hooded fleece. No wonder Florence doesn't want to come home at nights. Gail tries to tempt her man with that well-known standby, the bacon sandwich but to no avail; he doesn't want to eat her breakfasts or talk to her.
Round at the Rovers Leanne gets the OK from Natalie to leave early to go to Toyah and Spider's bedsit warming party. She also asks Natalie for New Year's Eve off to go to Bang On Top, a party in a circus tent. Natalie is less than delighted that she wants the night off. She is going to be right narked later on when she realises that Betty is going to visit her Gordon and Vinnie is going to see his dear old Dad, which will just leave her to run the bar on her own. I'm not sure what the problem is. Surely all her regulars will be at the Street's Millennium party? Natalie deals with the matter in the most tactful way possible by telling the three of them to sort it out between themselves and to do it quickly so that she knows whether to advertise for new bar staff.
Over at the Kabin Rita is suffering with a cold but won't take advice from Audreh or Norris the Kabin Boy that she should be at home in bed. Enter Ken with a cheery greeting for the Councilor and to warn her that a representative of the Wetherfield Gazette will be interviewing him in the afternoon to report on the community response to the mill celebrations. Audreh is dismissive of the whole affair but Ken tells her that he is only warning her that the press seem to think that she is neglecting her duty to her electors. Clever old Ken! He tells Audreh that she may decide to go to ground for a while.
In a dreary tea room at the hospital Nurse Platt sits gazing Hilda like into his tea leaves and as if by magic a tall dark person bearing gifts arrives. 'Tis Rebecca with half a Bounty as a peace offering for having a dig at him. She thinks that Martin and Gail seem to have it all sussed. She finds that they still have a few problems and suggests a drink in the Bell after work if he feels like it.
Nita is asking for Monday off to go to her interview at Freshco HQ. Curly points out that they haven't given her much time to prepare a presentation but he soon realises that such formalities are not necessary for girls who are sleeping with the boss. He suggests it won't be long before he is asking Nita for time off.
Audreh and Alma have a bitching session in the Rovers about Linda. Well, Alma tells Audreh what happened at Mike's flat last night and Audreh bitches.
In Roy's Rolls Ken and Roy talk to the gentleman of the press. Enter Audreh like a ship in full sail. She is deeeelighted that the Gazette are getting behind this wonderful community initiative. Why don't they all have their photo taken?. Ken suggests they all pose outside the salon.
In the Bell Rebecca questions Martin about his marital problems and he admits that Gail thinks that the pair of them are having an affair. They decide that the best thing to do is to have more to drink.
Mark, Leanne, Steve and Jez go off to Toyah's party. Curly is unsuccessfully trying to chat up a blonde but is constantly interrupted by Spider. The neighbour from the downstairs flat comes up to ask if the music can be turned down a little. He is quite understanding though until Leanne starts mouthing off at him under the influence of a visit to the bathroom with Jez. It's obviously not just the neighbours who get up her nose! She decides that his party is just too boring and that she wants to go on to a club and with that she leaves taking her entourage and most of the other guests with her.
In the Rovers Roy congratulates Ken on the way he dealt with Audreh and says he should be a Whitehall spin doctor, Meanwhile Audreh is congratulating herself to Alma because of the way she ran rings round the Ken, Roy and the press.
At Platt Mansions Martin creeps in but Gail is dozing on the sofa. He tells her that he has been for drink with Rebecca. They are just friends and were just talking. Gail apologises and tells Martin that she does trust him and that she thinks that they are going to be OK.
Back at the bedsit it is only half past midnight and all the guests have left leaving Toyah and Spider to contemplate a month's supply of vegetable curry. Toyah is in tears and can't believe that her own sister would be so horrible as to ruin her party.
Written by Joe Turner Directed by Brian Mills.
Hayley is marching along the Street and is briefly stopped by a hungover Janice who asks if she is working on a Sunday, or if she has slept through Sunday and it now Monday. The response is in the negative as Hayley tells her that mike is letting her use machines in her own time to produce costumes for the millennium celebrations.
Jim and Tyrone walk along the pavement with Monica, Tyrone reckons she is nervous and Tyrone wants no-one laughing at her - after all she is as fast as greased lightning. She is to run under the name "Tyrone's Torpedo".
Norris is running the Kabin - Rita is seriously ill. Emily delivers the old photographs to Ken as promised. Sally buys a paper and Norris tells how he is "norris the nurse" upstairs and "norris the newsagent" downstairs. He tells Sally that visiting times are limited!
Steve is consuming water and paracetamol in the shop, courtesy of Vikram. They swap Leanne stories - Vikram reckons Steve is welcome to Leanne but Steve rejoins that Leanne reckons she gave Vik the Big E. Nita comes downstairs and reveals she has a date that night with James.
Sally has made it up the drainpipe to Rita's and explains Norris's attitude. Rita reckons that Norris is a little gem and is looking forward to his next ward round(!).
Moving to the Rovers we see Gwen, Jim and Fred being served by Vinny. The last two are discussing the excursion to the greyhound racing that evening for the syndicate backing Monica. G(when will Jim notice me) observes that she likes a night at the dogs and used to go regularly with the family as her father kept greyhounds. Vinny serves her with a G&T and she looks disappointed when Jim says nothing more. Vinny and Fred then point out to Jim that he has just missed the opportunity of the evening and should have asked her along. Jim reckoned it was men only! Jim goes off to the toilet.
G(when will I become visible to Jim) joins Janice and relates that she dropped a hint. "I know" says Janice "I could hear it from here - you could be a bit more subtle you know".
Ashley arrives and asks after the missing reindeer meat - Fred has put it into the freezer and will make it up into something for the millennium celebrations.
Jim re-appears and sits down at the table with Janice and G(when will Jim wake up). Jim is seeking to find a way of asking the latter to join the party when Janice interrupts and says that of course she will come - G(when will I get Jim on my own) has to accept the invitation Jim had not made. Jim reports back to the lads that they have female company.
Rtoyota (Toyah) comes in and asks Natalie (I've decided it is winter but I have a skin fetish so although I've covered up my arms I thought you ought to enjoy my cleavage) where she might find Leanne. In the back comes the brief response - and about time she was behind the bar again.
Norris ends visiting time and ensures Rita has her medication and liquids.
Rtoyota goes through the back and finds Leanne suffering with an even worse hangover (or something) than Janice. Rt gives Leanne a piece of her mind for taking all the interesting people away. Leanne answers with "Spoilt child - complaining about having your party ruined" and tells Rt to grow up. Rt storms off saying Leanne will never see her again.
At the break we are reminded that Ladies love Cadbury's Milk Tray.
In the corner shop Vikram teases Ashley about the reindeer meat. Vik promises a "reindeer ratatouille" if some is dropped in. Apparently it is popular in Finland. Rt and Spider are shopping (to cook a cake a I think) with Rt throwing around the dried fruit.
At the greyhound track Fred and Vinny are losing but Jack and Tyrone have found her in the programme. Fred makes a presentation to Tyrone - a racing jacket for Monica emblazoned "Elliotts Butchers" which is sponsoring the dog. G(well I am standing next to Jim - he must notice me soon) observes that if the pa breaks down they could employ Fred instead.
Over at the Rovers Natalie (IdiiwbIhasfsaIcumaItyotemc) raises New Year's Eve with Leanne. Leanne says NYE is "not sorted". There has been a staff meeting and no-one is working. Leanne is distinctly edgy in this scene.
Nita and James are discussing the "interview". She is told she can be cool for the interview, anyway his opinion counts for a lot at Freshco. The new Thai restaurant has been booked for 8:30. James is happy in the Rovers unless they start karaoke.
Leanne and Mark are discussing the evening ahead. If you have not seen it watch the Leanne in this scene. There is a distinctly different edge which needs to be watched - she is talking faster, continual movement, some urgency, talk about "enjoyment" - see my comments below.
At the track Tyrone is whispering encouragement into Monica's ear. Jim, Gwen, Fred, Vinny, Jack and Tyrone watch the race and Monica wins the race by a huge distance so there is huge celebration by the syndicate, G(will Jim notice this) kisses all of the men - Jack, Vinny and Fred. Yes Jim does notice and pulls a face - actual acting from Jim McD here!
We return to the Rovers where Linda sits down with Nita and James who buys a drink. Linda expresses approval and Nita tells her to move on - after she already has hooked her sugar-daddy. Linda expresses the view that it is never a bad idea to keep her hand in.
Ken is asking Natalie for use of a wall to display a collage of photos. Natalie says sorry but the Rovers will be closed due to a staff shortage.
Mark and Leanne are at Mike's place having obviously enjoyed themselves and Leanne suggests they go off clubbing. Whilst Mark visits the toilet Leanne removes a £50 note from under a bottle of whisky, what can she possibly need that for I wonder?
Ken, Hayley and Emily are dismayed by Natalie's news and ask her to reconsider. The lack of staff means that the decision is fixed.
Linda finishes her drink and departs. Nita suggests it is time to move to the restaurant. James has other ideas. His needs can be better satisfied by visiting Nita's flat and he responds by making his idea sound more attractive! (I have always wondered why people failed to turn up for bookings - now I know). "Home James" says Nita. She drags him into the archway between the Rovers and No1 and they walk off hand in hand as the minibus returns to the Street with Fred singing.
Jim has his arm around G(when will I get my legover) as they get out of the minibus and he says they must do it again. G(well I never) says they must but next time it will be different - without the others, without the dogs, in a restaurant as a "date". Jim says this must be one of the new fangled things since he is out of touch with the human race.
Vinny, Jack and Tyrone are discussing future races but they have decided that as they won their bets so Tyrone gets the £150 prize money. After all the dog has a great racing future. As they talk Monica slips off the minibus and wanders into the road as Mark drives Leanne around the corner and stops sharply.
The closing shot is of Monica (played by Queenie) also known as Tyrone's Torpedo lying on the cobbles in the middle of the Street motionless.
Comments: Several great performances this evening. Firstly Leanne. Timing of transmission means that the content has to be understood by adults but not by children. Allusion and circumlocution are the order of the day, which has to be matched with mood swings and behaviour. I don't know if Leanne has got it right as I don't know any drug addicts (excluding my mother and we won't go into that here) but anyone watching it would say that something odd was happening to her - so her performance is conveying something.
Secondly Monica. If it was all one dog then a great race - she won by a great distance - and wonderful stillness (I know what happened but she looked dead) at the end. I like going to the dogs myself and we got a nice picture of greyhound racing this evening. It is exciting and entertaining, all well conveyed by the action.
What do we expect of our Street - simply the best and tonight was no exception, humour, pathos and an acceptable amount of Norris! Near perfect so tonight we get 4 and a half out of five.
Everything which appeared tonight is copyright Granada Television and I don't think it will be long before Jim is saying G(morning) and how do you like your egg?
This episode opens with Vera writing a birthday card to Tyrone. She composes a lovely message saying that no one could be more of a son to them than he has been. Vera and jack give Tyrone the card and tell him that they have paid for his first driving lessons for him but he seems in a hurry to leave the house and hardly glances at Vera's carefully worded greeting.
At the Kabin Norris advises Sally to hang on to the gurls toys as an investment. He still has his Yellow Submarine and all his Dinky toys! He was obviously a very careful child!
Rita reappears, fully recovered from her sickbed. Norris has made some notes for Rita to improve the shop's turnover He suggests that Rita opens a sub post office which she thinks is a good idea but she tells him to call a halt when he mentions all his other money making schemes
Vera still worried that Tyrone did not appreciate her card. Jack tells her he thinks that Tyrone was just a bit embarrassed, after all it does not seem that even his own mother is very hot on sending birthday greetings. Jack takes a stroll to the garage to ask Tyrone what the problem is but Tyrone insists nothing is wrong. Jack tells him that they are always there to talk to if he has a problem.
In Roy's Rolls Toyah is still very upset by the way Leanne spoke to her but Spider advises letting her stew for a bit. "It's the pacifists' way".
Sally is having a blether to Gail about Danny's surprise Christmas holiday in Southport. Gail tells her that she thinks that she thinks things are getting back together OK with Florence. In fact they are having a night out together at the hospital staff Xmas do.
In Freshco Curly tells Nita that the is glad to see that her obvious disappointment at not getting her dream job has not caused her to drop her usual high standards when dealing with the public.. He tells her that he is always there if she wants someone to talk to. Nita assumes he is trying to get into her knickers due to her reputation. She tells him that what happened with James was a mistake and which she won't be repeating and certainly not with the likes of him!!!
In the Rovers later she talks to Linda who offers her view of the situation and tells Nita her own philosophy of life regarding men " Remember, sex is like your saving so be careful what you spend it on" Top woman Linda!
Kevin and Jim go into the Rovers for there daily hotpots. Sally wants a word tells Kevin about Southport. he says its OK. He is not happy about it but doesn't want to disappoint the gurls
Jim offers a drink to Gwen and Janice and before he knows what's happened he has promised to cook pasta for Gwen THAT evening. She's a quick worker isn't she?
In Roy's Rolls Toyah tells Gail about the argument with her sister. Gail thinks Leanne is jealous.
Rita and Kabin Boy go for a drink in the Rovers.
At the hospital do we meet Rebecca's objectionable husband Jerry (in the background Steps are singing "Tragedy"). Jerry starts an argument with Rebecca and after they go to get a drink Gail tells Martin she thinks there is hope for them yet - at least they don't have there spats in public! They decide to leave early but while Gail is collecting her coat Martin goes over to Rebecca to tell her that he is always there if she needs someone to talk to.
At the B&B Vera has cooked Tyrone a birthday tea. Steak and Kidney Pudding and chips but he says he is not hungry. There is definitely something wrong with him if he's off his chips!
Jack follows him into the other room and insists that Tyrone tells him what his problem is. Finally Tyrone admits that his seventeenth birthday has brought home to him the problem his lack of literacy will cause. He has longed to get his driving licence but he has now realised that he will not be able to complete the written part of the driving test.
Back in the Rovers Leanne takes her break to await Jez the delivery man at the back door, meanwhile Toyah arrives in the bar. She has decided that the pacifist's way with Leanne will get her nowhere and she has come to tackle her sister. Going through to the back she comes across Leanne being handed a small packet of a mysterious white substance.
Toyah and Leanne have a shouting match. Toyah is worried about Leanne and the effect that drugs will have on her. but Leanne tells her to mind her own business. Leanne tells Toyah not to moan at her, she is not even her real sister. Spider and Natalie appear, worried by the noise and yelling, just as Toyah is telling Leanne that she doesn't care if she kills herself.
CREDITS
Well, everyone was there for everyone else today. I just hope we don't get an episode where all those invites to talk come to fruition. That could be the most boring episode ever!
Anyway on with the action down the Street sponsored by Cadbury's miniature heroes.
Written by Stephen Bennett Directed by: Tony Prescott
Sadly we do not start with G(when will Jim gets his legover) but instead at the B&B where Tyrone, Jack and Vera are discussing Tyrone's inability to read. Tyrone does not want anyone to know that eh cannot fill in his driving licence application form. Later Jack and Vera decide to approach Ken for his help, whom Vera finds in the Rovers. Ken agrees to help providing Tyrone puts in some effort. Tyrone however refuses to accept the help on the grounds that the whole Street will know.
In the Street action moves from Spider and Toyah discussing the problem which Leanne is suffering. Then Maxine emerges with her new haircut and Ashley and a shopping list with Maxime wanting to use all the gadgets they were given to provide a wonderful Christmas - so she is going to practice, after all she has never done it before. On the other side of the Street Sally and Gail are unloading presents and taking them indoors before Rursie and Surphie spot them (seems unlikely in this house). They discuss Rebecca and Gerry (the husband).
All nicely choreographed.
Rebecca and Martin meet in a corridor. Gerry is now on best behaviour trying to make up for his bad behaviour. Later in the episode Gail suggests inviting both Rebecca and her husband around. Martin demurs and Gail feels inviting Rebecca around would be a good idea (so that Gail can take aim without intervening bodies I suspect).
Dreary asks Hayley how many costumes she is making - most of them by the look of it. Main running item in this episode starts in the factory with the girls suggesting that Linda arranges for Mike to put his hand in his pocket to contribute to the works "do", that the girls suddenly decided to hold. He never has before (Hayley refers to him as Ebeneezer Baldwin) and he refuses all of Linda's blandishments and then asks Dreary for her thoughts. (All the time the rest of the factory girls keep winding Linda up). She tells him stop being mean after all they have been working overtime on Sunday's without a cross word!. A while later Mike relents, particularly when he recalls that big orders are coming his way in January and a productive workforce might be useful so accepts Dreary's advice. As Ebeneezer tells Dreary to find the money the look on Linda's face tells a wonderful story!
Dev is on the phone in the shop when Spider, Toyah and Leanne come face to face. The first two gave Leanne a piece of their mind, she suggest that they keep their nose out - and Spider helpfully points out that she need to clean her own nose.
Gwen is offhand with Jim (for no obvious reason) at lunchtime but says she will see him in the evening. Before the end of the episode another date is fixed.
Ashley and Audrey are discussing Maxime's efforts and back at the house Maxime in on the phone to her mum, Doreen (yayyy Prunella is heard on the end of the phone - hopefully we shall get to see her soon as well). Apparently Maxime did not know about giblets so she takes her mother's advice and goes to run a bath and relax.
At the Rovers Christmas arrangements are being discussed. Audrey is joining Gail for Christmas but Alma does not seem to have anywhere to go.
Ashley returns from the Rovers to find the smoke alarm going off and the downstairs very smoky. Maxine rushes downstairs and pulls a blackened turkey out of the oven. Christmas is going to be a disaster in this house! She turns the cooker off. They cuddle, Ashley reminds her that there will always be a pretty Peacock in the house even if the turkey is burnt and they decide to go out - Ashley will clear up when they get back.
Earlier Gwen was offhand with Jim (for no obvious reason) at lunchtime but says she will see him in the evening. Before the end of the episode another date is fixed to see a film and all seems well.
Jez turns up but Leanne does not have enough money to acquire the necessary. He is not prepared to give credit.
At the Peacock's we see a bath running over and water on the floor.
Audrey spots Max's new haircut and we find out that she went elsewhere (hardly a surprise that!).
Nita and Vik are discussing Dev's absence (he had been supposed to relieve Vik hours earlier) with Vik saying that he refuses to accept any more orders and instructions from Dev. Dev finally arrives for the meeting with them. Apparently the Desai businesses at home are in a mess and Ravi is staying there to sort it out. He needs money and Dev has bought all of the shops to provide the finance needed. Dev presents Nita and Vikram with details of the changes, the latter two are speechless.
Ashley and Maxine roll into the house singing and are confronted with water pouring through the ceiling. Maxine shouts "my bath" and throwing a hood over her new hairdo rushes upstairs.
Well nothing great but the Street keeps rolling - a couple of nice lines (Ebeneezer), no sign of Norris (hooray), a hearing of Doreen Heavey (hooray x 2), and Linda's face when Dreary pulls on Ebeneezer's wallet strings (hooray x 3). So 3 out of 5.
Maxine and Ashley have cleaned up after their flood, but Maxine is distressed that their Christmas will be ruined if the house is in such a state. She rejects Ashley's suggestion of spending Christmas at Fred's house. Rita gives her the number of a builder she has used in the past. Pat the builder later comes to see Maxine's mess. He sucks his teeth and tells her he has people in front of her in the queue and that he won't be able to do the job until after Christmas. Maxine offers him double his usual rate, and he begins work straight away. Fred goes round later to inspect the damage, and is told by Maxine to go and get them all fish and chips, since the builder is staying late to get on with the work. Ashley is relieved that the insurance will cover them for the damage.
Vik complains to Nita that Ravi has betrayed them by selling the shops to Dev. Vik feels like walking out, though Nita tries hard to persuade him to stay. Dev is adamant that Ravi was desperate for the money to bail out the family's other businesses abroad, and he was doing Ravi a favour by buying the shops. Dev offers to write off the £1000 debt that Vik owes the business. Vik grudgingly agrees to stay on working in the corner shop in return.
Vera asks Ken to make the first approach to Tyrone about his reading lessons, saying that Tyrone is too shy to ask Ken about it. Ken talks to Tyrone about it in the cafe and gets told quite bluntly that his help is not required. Toyah has overheard and later confesses to Tyrone that she would never have gone to college if she hadn't asked Ken to help her. She reassures Tyrone that Ken will be discreet. Later, Tyrone tells Ken he has changed his mind, and would like to learn to read properly. He promises to work hard at it.
Norris and Rita continue to discuss refitting the shop and applying to run a sub-post office. Rita invites Norris to dinner in the flat, but is not impressed when Norris criticises her cooking. She is even more taken aback when he makes it clear that he is not looking for romance and she should not read too much into their friendship. Rita puts Norris straight, saying that she likes living on her own and intends to remain so. They agree that they both want to remain single.
Natalie decides to invite the staff to stay for Christmas dinner after they close at lunchtime on Christmas Day. Everyone except Vinny has other plans, but just as he was looking forward to a cosy twosome with Natalie, she arranges for Kevin and Curly to join them. Alma tells Deirdre and Ken that she has friends joining her for Christmas lunch at Audrey's house. Mike apologises to Alma over the previous mix-up when she went to collect her stuff from the flat. They agree to meet for a drink some time to sort it out. Jim and Gwen go off on another date, so they do.
Mike can't help feeling that he's been stitched up over paying for the staff 'do' on Wednesday - especially when he hears that partners are going as well. He is determined not to go, but Linda has other ideas. He eventually agrees to show his face for an hour or so. One partner who won't be there is Ken. Deirdre is very understanding when Ken says he would never accept hospitality from a Baldwin.
Martin asks Rebecca to go out for a drink with him and Gail, saying it was Gail's idea. They all meet in the Rovers and Rebecca tells Gail about her problems with Jerry. Gail is sympathetic, knowing from first hand what it is like to have Christmas dinner with somebody who would rather be with someone else. Not Martin, she hastily adds, but her first husband.
Episode written by Peter Whalley.
Update by Helen Johns
Just for once we don't open with the miserable Platts; just for a festive change we open at the garage with miserable Kevin. Honestly, much more of this doom and gloom and I'll start watching E***E****s for the laugh. Kevin has decided to close the garage early, and go to Morecambe in search of Alison. He is going to climb every mountain, ford every stream, follow every ... sorry, I've not been the same since I went to the Singalong Sound of Music in my nun's outfit. Kevin is going to visit every caff in Morecambe in the hope of finding his beloved Alison. If all goes well he'll be enjoying a fish finger surprise by the end of the day.
Tyrone calls in on Ken for help with Jack and Vera's Christmas card; he wants to write a message that shows how grateful he is for everything that they have done for him. He has even bought himself a new pen to practise his writing with! Deirdre comes in and he beats a hasty retreat. Ken tells Deirdre the reason for Tyrone's visit but swears her to secret; she mustn't tell a soul especially Blanche.
In the Rovers Jim is moody, Gwen is moody, Leanne the uber-bitch is moody until a visit from Jez with an early Christmas delivery for her. Just watching some of these scenes makes me wish I had some recreational drugs to make them bearable. Mike is moody and so is Leanne. However, Mike makes a half-hearted apology to Linda and suggest that the go home and make up with a bottle of wine. Linda cheers up a bit until a newly-revived Leanne 'accidentally' lets slip that Mike took Alma for a meal the other night. Oops! Linda's face could sink the Titanic it's so frosty. Only Fred is happy, as he tells Rita "Maxine is pregnant". Fred looked so happy that it's a shame that he'll have to realise he's got the wrong end of the stick.
At Peacock Towers Ashley is whisking his Hoover extension over the curtain rails. I wouldn't mind him popping round and running his attachments over some of my crevices some time; they're getting a bit dusty through lack of attention, lately. But hark, 'tis a caller at the door. It's the Milk Tray man, and he grabs Ashley in a firm manly embrace. It is Sergei; apparently he spent his nights under Ashley when they bunked together on the sea voyage home from honeymoon. If you collect dodgy accents, you are in for a treat here because Sergei's Russian accent is about as bad as they get. It seems that the Moscow matelot has taken up Ashley's offer to visit anytime and has come to stay for Christmas. Ashley introduces his erstwhile shipmate to Maxine and also to Audreh. Sergei is very taken with Audreh, but as ship's engineer is must be used to servicing old boilers.
Back in Morecambe, Kevin and Alison have argued their way along the seafront and now return to one of the most miserable bedsits I've ever seen. Even I have never lived anywhere that bad! Alison cooks him beans on toast (quelle suprise!!) but tells him she won't come back to Weatherfield with him as she feels he doesn't trust her. She then drops the bombshell; she is pregnant. The episode finishes with Kevin telling her to ring him anytime if she needs anything. Unfortunately he is saying it to the door that she has closed on him.
All in all a rather miserable episode with the only bright spots being provided by the terrific Alan Halsall as Tyrone. Despite a life long abhorrence of violence I can feel my fingers twitching whenever some of the other characters appear. How I long to slap Leanne, kick Linda, poke Gwen in the eye and kick Jez from the Rovers to the Flying Horse. And I'm sure there'll be more dramas before Christmas is over.
At the B&B Jack and Vera are joined by Gary and the twins (first birthday today) and are celebrating Christmas with Tyrone, the latter wearing a huge white beard. Tyrone gives Vera a T-shirt with Jack on it and Jack one with Vera on it! Gary recalls the first time he held the twins and thinking he would never be so happy again. Gary gives Vera a vase as a symbol of his thanks. The day is going well and lunch is being eaten when the bell goes and whilst Vera wonders who that could possibly be Tyrone lets in Terry who has come to try to put things right with his family. Gary is barely able to control himself and decides to go home. He returns to collect the presents and Terry tries to justify his action. Gary then lets loose a fierce blow to Terry's jaw and the two engage in fisticuffs, breaking the vase. Eventually they are separated by Jack and Tyrone and Gary and the latter returns home. Gary tells Terry he is the one who should be 6' under.
Maxine appears looking much the worse for wear and apologises to Ashley for failing to start cooking the turkey. Ashley tells her not to worry - he has it all in hand and anyway it takes to practice to drink with a Russian. Sergei appears and says that Max will be better with the "fur of ze hound" and promptly raises a "wodka" bottle and gulps down about a mugful and declares himself fit for anything. He and Ashley carry on cooking until Fred arrives, without a present in his hand but with Doreen and Derek. Doreen comments on the new decoration. Fred finds Sergei cooking in the kitchen and surprise, surprise Doreen is immediately taken with Sergei (what a shame when she could do far better much closer to home). After lunch (Maxine hardly touches her dinner and Fred springs to her defence, still thinking she is pregnant). Fred asks Ashley and Maxine to understand that his present is so large it won't fit under the tree, in fact the tree is under the present. They are lost until he explains he is giving them the house. A three way hug ensues, Ashley calling Fred "Dad". The surprise is finally unveiled and Max receives a beautiful cat on a soft cushion as her present. Fred realises that the patter of tiny feet hides concealed claws. Doreen continues to pursue Sergei, asking if he has ever been up the Volga. {I have and it is very beautiful}.
At the hospital Rebecca and Martin are expecting a quiet shift until the programme moves into "ER" (sadly no George Clooney or Alex Kingston look alikes) as an RTA victim is brought in, just as Martin's shift is due to finish. A lad of 10 sadly dies despite attempted resuscitation {I thought you were only allowed three attempts with a defibrillator) by the medical staff including Martin and Rebecca. They are breaking the news to the boy's mother when she rushes out of the room, catching Rebecca's head with the door. As a result Martin and Rebecca repair to what looks like the linen room for repair to her graze. Re-assuring words are passed, after all death impacts everyone, especially as the boy was the same age as David. Rebecca kisses Martin and after a pause he responds. When we return to the scene much later the pair are refastening their clothes which they had been forced to loosen in our absence.
Linda gives Mike a new pullover and he reciprocates with underwear to which she takes extreme objection - she is not a "plaything". She reveals she knows about the meal with Alma. Linda is all right for cooking Mike's meals, doing his work or being taken to bed but in reality she is "just not good enough" in comparison with Alma. Although they are the first to eat lunch she throws down her cutlery and storms out of the room. I have always assumed that the Quays development was some way from T'Street but given the way Baldwin uses it as his local (given that the car has gone south with his licence) I must be mistaken. Although Mike tries his usual wisecracking she refuses to lighten up. Later Mike is buying drinks in the Rovers and Alma wishes him a Happy Christmas (no mistletoe though). He walks back to Linda's table and says it is more than he has had from her all day. The Battersbys arrive and Leanne asks Mike what Alma gave him for Christmas. Mike tells Leanne to keep her vicious nose out of other people's business. Linda calls Mike a dirty old man - she is acting like a kid and he is treating her like one. She walks off leaving Mike alone.
Kev receives a phone call. Not from Alison who harbours no good will but from the gurls. They tell him what a good time they are having. He then departs to the Rovers where Natalie is hosting Christmas dinner for him, Curly and Jim McDonald with Vinny also expected (it is a good job he did not turn up as he would have been directly between the camera and the table). Leanne (looking like death) has gone home for Christmas dinner and Les tries to join in the lock-in, but is sent on his way. Les tells Leanne to expect a culture shock with his present in the shape of Janice's present. The turkey is not courtesy of Freshco but was a fresh (and free one) from Fred who is to be suitably thanked by all concerned. The festive spirit seems to be lacking as both Curly and Kev want to consider the past and not the future. As Jim observes all four of them are casualties of marriage. Curly is acting very drunk. Natalie decides the lunch is a rather bad idea as the atmosphere gets more drunken ... especially when Curly (and I am not sure who thought this was a good idea) very drunkenly points out that it is three years to the day since he last did "it". Natalie decides to open the pub and tells the men to tell all comers.
Ken meets Audrey in the street on her way to Gail's. He asks after Alma - putting her make up on to go out, which directly contradicts the story she had told Ken. Ken then goes round to Audrey's and after the inevitable discussion during which Ken makes it clear that she should be amongst friends and not on her own, Alma agrees to join Ken, Dreary, Emily and Blanche for Christmas lunch.
Gail, Audrey, Sarah Lou and birthday boy David are waiting for a much over cooked turkey, even though David is hungry. Gail is dispensing good humour and will not hear a word against Martin whom she knows has a job with uncertain finishing times. Sarah Lou is doing the bored teenager act. Gail suggests peace and goodwill to all men - particularly nurses.
Having told Terry to make himself scarce for ever Jack goes to Gary's to see how he is (Jack also observes that he wishes Terry had been drowned at birth). Tyrone takes Monica for a walk - she has been scared by the shouting and the noise leaving Vee and Terry alone. Vera also says that Terry has gone too far this time round, calling him scum and evil and then slapping him before saying that she too does not want to see him ever again. He leaves and she finally slams the door behind him. {Can we hope this is last we see of Terry Duckworth?} Vera collapses in tears.
Jack arrives at Gary's carrying two huge bears. Jack seeks to settle Gary - pointing out that it could easily have been Vera who died. Gary says he is now feeling better and must do something to make a good life for the twins. Later Tyrone returns to the B&B to find Vera trying to mend the vase admitting that she has finally seen Terry for real. Tyrone says he much prefers Jack and Vera to his own parents and points out that he is hungry. We then see the pair of them arriving at Gary's carrying plastic containers. They all sit down to a much delayed meal. Jack says that Gary will be all right. The house had seen good and bad times before and when the good times came they would be good (at this point memories of Hilda's "muriel" as well as the Duck- egg's came to mind - let us all hope that the new year will bring the right woman into Gary's life).
Vinny turns up at the Rovers and says it was one of those days when everything went wrong, although he cannot explain the failure to use the phone - I reckon he has a secret family. Natalie brings him up to date on events and anyway now he has arrived perhaps he could set about some work, after all the pub is busy? He agrees and Natalie tells him to announce "Happy Hour" as that is bound to confuse them! When the Battersbys arrive we find out about Janice's present. Les has given her the Kama Sutra - the god's manual of "lurve". Janice reckons it will be useless - after all he could not understand the manual for his old Cortina (a Ford car).
Martin, no doubt tired from his efforts at cheering up Rebecca, returns home to find a very welcoming Gail. They are all hungry and Audrey says that she thought her mouth had stopped working - not much chance of that says Gail. Gail asks how Rebecca had coped with the death and Martin said that she needed some Christmas cheering up (but failed to mention how he had helped). After the much delayed turkey is eaten Audrey decides to depart to see Fred and the children disappear upstairs to play with their toys, Gail makes it entirely clear that the turkey is not the only bird in that house planning on getting stuffed that night. Martin attempts to demur (it has been a long day) but clearly finds the required stamina!
Audrey arrives and Ashley's and Maxine's to find Doreen all over Sergei, learning Russian. Audrey points out that Doreen has a husband (asleep on the sofa - rather like me after a good dinner) and therefore hands off - Audrey saw him first!! Doreen's face (courtesy of Prunella Gee) is a wonderful picture at this point. Sergei seems unaware of the attention (presumably he has a woman in every port anyway). Sadly Fred admits that he thought Maxine was pregnant and Ashley guesses that was why they were given the house
At the Rovers the pub is empty and the door is locked. Vinny and Natalie are clearing up and Natalie suggests they have a final drink. Natalie asks Vinny why he did turn up - and the answer may get him sacked. Vinny admits to finding her more than attractive - there is a hidden something. They kiss. He asks if he is fired. Natalie says they can discuss it in the morning. They kiss again.
Sometimes a long episode means the storylines get drawn out and action is slow - not something which could be said tonight. Not many great lines but we are at the turning point for a number of stories - Mike and Linda have reached the end of the road and Martin has taken a disastrous turn (I honestly feel the story has gone the wrong way). Vinny and Natalie are starting out (I reckon that is a rocky road too) and perhaps things will look up for Gary soon.
Well an episode that covered a lot of ground - humour and bonhomie at the Peacocks and with Ken Barlow, dissension and bad Christmas memories for the Duckworths and the Baldwins. A death too, although not on the Street but no snow and little from the next generation. An appearance from Doreen also put cheer into me!
Given the need to sustain an hour a lot of hard work went into this episode - so I will give it a **** (out of five)
We open with a great continuity error.
Vera is leaving Gary's house and he tells her that he is taking the twins to his parents' home for New Year. He suggests that Vera might like to pop back in a couple of hours "say two o'clock" to wave them off. Vera says goodbye and as she walks off she calls a cheeky greeting to Ashley and Maxine who are just leaving their house. Maxine is moaning about having to walk round to Fred's house so early in the morning "It's only half past ten, I should still be in bed with you, Ash". Must be a time warp line running up the centre of Coronation Street!
Ashley is determined to tell Fred that they don't want the house as it was only given to them due to a misunderstanding. Later in the day Fred persuades them that he truly wants them to keep the house; after all, Ashley will be the main beneficiary of his will anyway. He would prefer to have a grandchild to bounce on his knee rather than waiting so long that he is in his wheelchair.
Leanne arrives at the pub for work (from where?) in a rather more cheerful mood than usual. She must have had a sniff of good fresh air - or something. She won't be so chirpy later after Jez has been round to remind her of her debts. For now though she is sprightly enough, despite being greeted by the rather vomit inducing sight of Vinnie enjoying a post-connubial cuppa whilst displaying his bare chest. Yeuch! Natalie and Vinnie have a chat and she warns him that he should not think of the previous night's jollies as being anything more than just a good time because it was Christmas. As she later invites him to stay over for a repeat performance I can only assume she's got a taste for Yule log.
Linda and Mike are quarrelling again, or rather, she is moaning, and he is trying to get a word in edgeways. She is moaning about the fact that Alma's stuff is still in the flat so Mike grabs it and takes it round. This gives Audreh something to crow about later when she sees Linda in the Rovers. "Oh yes, Mike seems to see more of Alma now than when they were married!"
In a flat above a tonsorial artiste's salon not a million miles away Tom's dad Duggie has popped round for that traditional Christmas activity, the family argument. Duggie has invested in the new Victoria Street development and wants to set Tom up in his own salon. This scene seems interminable. I know that in real life arguments go round in circles but there is a limit to how much of that we can watch on TV. The précis seems to be that Duggie was always out drinking, socialising and being an all round good sport whilst ignoring his wife and son. When wife had cancer he was with her all the time but Tom felt pushed out. Since Mum died Dad thinks it's time for the guilt to stop; Tom can't forgive or forget.
Back in the Rovers Fred is becoming increasingly fed up with Sergei's attentions to Audreh. Normally Fred is polite, albeit in a rather loud way; on those occasions when he insults people it is usually because he rides roughshod over them and doesn't listen to what they have to say. BUT, Fred had a bad manners implant for Christmas and is being downright rude to Sergei. I thought this scene was rather strange. Fred says that Sergei should clear off back home and leave the newlyweds to enjoy their first Christmas alone together. Sergei agrees and says he will leave but Audreh knows of a local home for waifs and strays, which is free of charge and has spare rooms. Yes, she invites the Rampant Russian to come and practice his glasnost at Roberts Retreat where Little Orphan Alma is already living. Not quite the result Fred had in mind!
We end at Mike and Linda's lovenest. There is more rowing, blah blah, Alma, blah blah, divorce, blah blah blah. Well the upshot, for those who could be bothered to watch for this long is that Linda has packed her bags and will leave in the morning.
This episode was written by Catherine Hayes and directed by Noreen Kershaw. Frankly it was not one of the great episodes, more a filler, setting up some future story lines, and getting loads of moaning in.
Linda packs up all her stuff and prepares to leave Mike's flat. He cannot understand it, and seems bemused when Linda says she doesn't want to be treated like some tart. He points out that she has nowhere to go, and little chance of finding somewhere on a Bank Holiday. Linda reluctantly agrees to stay until she finds somewhere else. Later, over a few large whiskys Mike confides in Fred, whose advice is that Linda is playing a game with Mike, since she is like all women ... ' they have their brain chemistry disrupted by their hormones.' Mike still cannot fathom out the reason for Linda's behaviour. Meanwhile, Linda shares her troubles with Nita, and a few pints of beer. It seems that her real problem is not so much that Mike has seen a lot of Alma over Christmas, but rather that she is bored with the everyday existence of the relationship, now that the novelty has worn off. Linda would like to be made to feel 'special' by her man. Later on, when she returns to the flat, Mike tells her to stop behaving like a silly girl and get back to normal. Linda is incensed by his patronising attitude and storms out.
Alma has clearly expressed doubts about having an unknown foreigner invited into the house by Audrey, who reassures her that everything will be fine. When Sergie appears at the breakfast table clad only in a towel, Alma looks him up and down very, very thoroughly! Later, in the pub, Alma retains her dignified composure when Linda slurs that if Alma wants Mike she is welcome to him.
Gail discusses the catering for the Millennium street party at the cafe. Steve MacDonald has a nose for a money-making opportunity, and later approaches Emily about running a raffle at the event. Emily is delighted to accept the offer, and reminds Steve that all the proceeds will be donated to charity. Ken and Hayley are collating the photographs for the street history display. Roy is pessimistic about getting permission for the road closure. They decide to try to get the Weatherfield Historical Society's replica stocks for Millennium night, to raise more money. Leanne asks Steve to lend her some money to help her pay Jez, who she owes £500. Steve refuses. Leanne later persuades Jez that she will pay him when she gets paid for working New Year's Eve. Leanne and Jez go out that night, and finish up at his place. They are getting quite friendly on the sofa, until he suggests that she could get a job in his mate's lap-dancing club. Leanne is shocked by the suggestion, but Jez points out that her bar job is not able to fund her habit, and the interest on the money is mounting up all the time. Leanne is even more upset when he implies that if she had sex with him it would help her situation. Leanne makes it clear that she is not interested and leaves at once.
Sally and the girls are back. They have had a wonderful time, and Danny can't wait to have Sally all to himself for the New Year. Kevin hasn't had a wonderful time, as he tells Natalie. He thinks he has lost his chance with Alison and doesn't expect to hear from her again. Natalie warns Vinnie not to make their relationship public, but she is very happy for him to stay again that night.
Martin is shocked when Rebecca turns up to work with a black eye. He at first assumes that Jerry has found out about their affair, and seems relieved to hear that it was the stress of Christmas which led to it. Then he beomes quite concerned about Rebecca, but she reassures Martin that it will not happen again, since she is leaving Jerry. Martin later tells Rebecca that he and Gail are really trying to make things work at the moment, but Rebecca assures Martin that she isn't going to ask him for anything.
Fred calls round at Audrey's and warns Sergei off Audrey, and Sergei assures Fred that he just wants to relax at Christmas and everything will be fine. Later, after Sergei and Audrey have consumed a quantity of vodka, Audrey gets emotional about missing Alf. Sergei remarks that Alf must have been very happy, married to Audrey. He wonders if Audrey gets lonely now, and after Audrey has made it clear that she and Fred are only 'just good friends', Sergei pours on the compliments. He confides that he too is alone, in his heart and in his bed. He doesn't want to go home to find a girl, because the woman he wants is in front of him. He asks Audrey to become his wife.
Roll credits. (Before Audrey has chance to speak.)
Episode written by Susan Wilkins
The episode was written by Jan McVerry and directed by Brian Mills. The star of this episode was Sue Nicholls who had to portray a range of emotions and did so without becoming melodramatic. She could certainly give certain other members of the cast pointers in acting dramatic scenes without the necessity for shouting and eye rolling.
We open Chez Audreh, where an incredulous Alma has just been told about Sergei's proposal of marriage. Alma seems to find the whole idea very amusing until she realises that her friend may be giving the idea serious consideration; then she becomes rather worried as she wouldn't want Audreh to be hurt or taken advantage of. Later in the Rovers she apologises to Audreh for laughing but points out that nothing is known about Sergei and that he could just be looking for a better life away from Archangel. Audreh, not unexpectedly, reacts angrily; why should he just see her as a meal ticket, perhaps he likes her for her personality etc. Well, maybe Audreh is right but it looks as though hurt is coming her way. Alma tells Fred that she can't tell him everything but that she feels that Sergei has outstayed his welcome. Fred, of course, agrees.
Now, maybe I missed something, but I thought Linda had agreed to stay at Mike's until she found somewhere else to go. However, it seems that she spent the previous night on Nita's sofa and Mike gets a definite cold shoulder and a snarl from Linda.
Evil Jez calls on Leanne and tells her that she now owes £500; the interest is mounting rapidly. She offers him £20 which she has borrowed from Janice but Jez isn't happy with that; he only gives credit to friends. She tries to tell him that it is because she sees him as a friend that she wouldn't sleep with him but he says that she is just a tease who makes eyes at him when he is giving her what she wants but then doesn't come across with the goods. Jez indicates the cash register and points out that there are other ways of getting money if you work in a pub. Later it is obvious that Leanne is tempted by some cash that is left in the back room but Natalie returns before she gets herself even deeper in trouble.
Over at Roy's Rolls rebellion is brewing; Roy's visit to the council offices has not been a success. The Weatherfield application to close the streets arrived too late and has not been granted. Ken decides that it is time for action! "We must reclaim the streets." A quick show of hands and it's decided - Coronation Street will be closed to traffic on New Year's Eve.
At the cafe counter Gail and Audreh are in deep discussion. Alma has told Gail about Sergei, thus giving Gail something else to get on her high horse about. "Mam, it hardly needs saying that Alf hasn't been dead a year yet". Audreh points out that she is well aware of that, but she is not one of those people who are made to be alone. She has enough to worry about having just learned that Tom's Dad wants to open a hair salon, run by Tom, in the Victoria Street development. She is fed up with struggling on alone and wants someone to look after her.
Back at home Audreh is met by the randy Russian who says he realises that he is pushing her but he is due back on his ship on Friday and doesn't want to waste any of their precious moments together. Audreh speaks quite movingly of her hopes and fears, of her life with Alfeh and her anger as well as sorrow when he died and left her alone. She tries to persuade Sergei that it would be madness to marry when they barely know one another; what will happen when he gets fed up and wants to trade her in for a younger model?
Just then there is a knock at the door and Audreh opens it to find that the police are here to arrest Sergei for overstaying on his visa. His ship has already left without him! Sergei tries to convince the officers that he and Audreh are about to be married but she has come to terms with reality rather sharply. She keeps repeating "But you told me you were due back on Friday". The episode ends as Audreh sadly asks "What other lies were you telling, Sergei?" The closing shot is of Audreh alone, looking shocked, depressed and also looking her age. That is not intended as insulting but Sue Nicholls was excellent in this scene as a woman who may have had one knock too many. I'm sure that Audreh will soon bounce back though; she's a tough lady.
My apologies for the late posting of this update, I have had rather a hectic weekend, but if I tell you why you may think you are reading one of those naughty sites rather than a Corrie update!!! Let's just say that my unrequited pash for the librarian, as mentioned in earlier updates, has now been ..er .. well, requited.
By the way, the reason that my PC was out of action for two weeks in December was because a reader of these updates sent me a change of e-mail address notification (which shouldn't be sent to me anyway) with the Happy99 virus attached. Please, please take care what you send to people. It cost me, and a friend, a lot of time and money to put right and was extremely inconvenient.
Anyway, on with the episode, which was written by Joe Turner and directed by Noreen Kershaw. This was another of those episodes with no real story; just a number of building scenes to prepare us for the hour-long special tomorrow.
In this episode the running theme is Roy's state of panic. He is convinced that everything will go horribly wrong. His first panic is about the traffic; how will they stop it for the big night? "Don't worry" says Ken "I have a plan, it's all underhand". "Don't you mean in hand" says Roy. "Do I?" replies Ken.
Roy then has a worry about the awning and rather rudely takes the telephone out of a customer's hand so that he can call the brewery. Luckily the awning arrives just in time, before Roy spontaneously combusts.
Over at the Rovers Fred is offering advice to Mike about women. Hmmm. Don't listen to him, Mike.
Betty, Ashley and Emily, and later Tyrone, admire Ken's photo montage of the residents past and present of Coronation Street.
Roy is in to his third panic of the morning as he tries to direct the chaps who are putting up the awning. The community spirit seems to be alive and well as Kevin, Danny, Jim and Steve all muck in to get things done.
Danny apologises to Kevin for taking the girls away at Christmas, He simply did not think ahead. He tells Kevin that he is very fond of Sally but he will never try to replace Kevin as the girls' dad. He understands that a father would do anything not to be separated from his children. This obviously gives Kevin something to think about and he dashes off. He tells Sally that he can't have the kids that evening as he is going back to Morecombe to bring Alison home.
Martin has had to pop into town and decides to call on Rebecca with a bottle of wine to see how she has settled into her room at the nurses' home. Unfortunately, Jerry arrives and jumps to the obvious conclusion.
Ken and Tyrone arrive in the Street in a borrowed Freshco van with some "borrowed" Freshco traffic cones to help control the parking, and a set of stocks - presumably to punish the illegal parkers. There is quite a good bit of "business" in this scene as Spider crosses the road carrying a roll of tarpaulin for the awning, but despite swinging round to listen to various conversations he doesn't quite manage to hit anyone.
Fred admits to Ashley that it was he who alerted the immigration authorities to Sergei's presence in Wetherfield. Meanwhile, Audrey and Alma are looking back over the traumatic events of the previous year. Audrey wishes she could find a nice man to look after her, someone like Alfeh. She says he was the perfect husband for her. Alma and Audrey decide that they will have a good time at that night's party and then with eyes looking heavenward they drink a toast "To Alfeh".
Jez catches up with Leanne and tells her that he has a cunning plan to make some money. All she has to do is "accidentally" leave the pub door unlocked at closing time and some associates of Jez will come and relieve Natalie of her takings. Then Leanne just has to get up in the morning looking surprised by the burglary. Leanne says she won't do it, but after Jez becomes more threatening she tells him where the takings are kept and agrees to leave the doors unlocked. Jez says that they will then be quits and she won't owe him anything. The episode ends with a close up of Leanne looking frighten and miserable as she realises what she has agreed to do.
Not a bad episode, but as I said just a preparation for the treat that will be tomorrow's episode.
