Written by John Stevenson Directed by John Anderson
SL is in hospital being comforted by Gail and watched by Sally. The midwife refuses an epidural because it is too late (what about gas and air then). Gail asks Sal to search the hospital for Martin. Martin is in bed with Rebecca. She tries to send him home but he refuses to go and they kiss (presumably again as neither appears to have any clothes on). Sal finds Martin's office and convinces a most reluctant nurse (hardly surprisingly) to hand over details of Rebecca's address - the mobile phone is switched off. Sal admits she knows about Rebecca (lucky Danny told her then) and also says she does not want to kick up a fuss.
In the Rovers Mark is trying to convince Linda he meant what he said - he wants to be with her. Linda tries to brush him off. Mike arrives to buy the drinks. Linda finds information on a trade fair in Cologne in Mike's pocket. He would like to go but they are busy at present. Once can sense that Mark is thinking he would like a nice trip (with Linda?).
At the bar Norris arrives and complains to Vera that the front room is a little crowded with Tyrone and Maria playing trashy videos instead of a rather cerebral programme he had wanted to see. Norris reckons Tyrone is too young to chase women. Vera wonders at what age he should start?
We return to the maternity wing where SL is putting in quite a good performance and is even being told to push! Gail is wondering where Martin might be. He is getting dressed when the door is knocked by Sally. Rebecca opens the door. Sally is by herself. Martin heads off to the delivery room. Sally finds time to give Rebecca another telling off. In the delivery room a daughter is born. Audrey is a great grandmother (and the baby is correctly spattered in blood). Instantly the midwife assures Gail the baby is fine (no doctor - amazing) and Gail decides the baby is beautiful. SL seems totally uninterested.
At the B&B Tyrone and Maria are glad Vera was out. Norris arrives from upstairs - Monica was on his bed and he might catch something from a dirty dog. He would have to strip the bed. Maria decides to head for home and Tyrone feels that he and Monica should walk her home.
Martin finally arrives to meet his grand-daughter - perfect he is told - being held by Gail. He congratulates Sarah. A very patch explanation of his whereabouts. Sarah thanks both Gail and Martin (what about Sal?) for being there for her (only Martin wasn't really and Sal only just about holds her peace on the subject).
Adverts, which include one for the Evening Standard, so regionalised as usual. Do the rest of the company get all the silly dotcom ads?
The next morning in the corner shop Vera is leaving her shopping until she comes back from going round the town. Maya recommends that she should not use StreetCars because Eileen is not very good at sending out cars and perhaps Eileen is not very nice at all.
Alison has popped round to see the baby and makes the usual admiring noises - Alison cannot wait to hold her own baby so SL lets her hold the new daughter. Alison just cannot wait until her own baby comes.
Mark talks to Mike and suggests he be allowed to run the factory so Mike can go to the trade fair. Mike agrees and says he will take Linda with him (which rather ruins Marks plans).
Tyrone and Maria are walking down the Street and Tyrone observes that Monica did not complain when they were canoodling in the park the previous night. She did not bark or whine. So perhaps Maria is accepted. So they start snogging and Vera shouts at them from her cab to stop it - they should use the sofa in the front room. Monica remains silent.
In the hospital Martin takes the first picture of Audrey and the baby. David reckons the baby is all right for a girl. Audrey asks the question - what name. Britney or Gabrielle - Audrey says that she should not saddle the girl with anything outrageous - if it had been a boy Alfie would have been nice. Martin observes sotto voce that it was good that it was a girl!
Over at the Kabin Rita is updating Vera on the baby. Norris observes that there are two to blame for a baby and as you sow so shall you reap. Vera cannot remember the last time she did any sewing, Jack's socks perhaps. Norris tries to explain. Vera accuses him of flattening some grass in his time. He denies it! She complains about his bedding being dirty in any event. Leaving Vera congratulates Eileen on the service she received and lets slip Maya's adverse comments.
Kev is visiting Alison who is heavy tired and ugly. Kev re-assures her that she is beautiful. She reckons it is going to be a girl.
At StreetCars Eileen is giving Freshco customers a special deal on taxi fares from the Street to their store - they will be happy to put up a poster. Later Steve pops in and she sells him the idea of a way of filling in the quiet bits of the day as well as encouraging business. Steve agrees to the deal. Eileen knows it will upset some local shopkeepers.
In the Rovers Mike tells Mark he has another rethink over Cologne. He will go - but without Linda. She gets terribly jealous if he talks to another woman and there may be a need to chat up some lady buyers - and his style would be cramped. He is pleased to think he can make a woman jealous at his age. Mark cheers up at the thought of being left to run the factory with Linda. Later Mark breaks the news to Linda - the whole week Mark has Linda to himself.
At the bar Audrey buys a drink for everyone in the pub. Blanche makes some adverse comments on early parenthood and accepts a large brandy from Audrey after pointing out that the latter will now be available for glamorous great-granny competitions.
Martin and Gail head for home. Gail has noted that Sarah is not keen on being a mother, but reckons that Audrey played a blinder in showing everyone that the baby was going to be welcomed.
We return to the maternity ward as Kev is about to go home. Alison wants to see him off and as she gets out of bed a big smile crosses her face - she has finally started labour.
After the closing titles there is a brief flash into the future - a baby crying, Alison screaming for help and the tag line - Coronation Street - Lives will never be the same again - ITV.
Given all the spoilers most readers in the UK will know what is coming. At least the end of episode spoiler is much briefer than the Brookie equivalent (which can sometimes defuse all the tension.
Given that the actress playing Sarah Lou is presumably about 15 - 16 I reckon she has been great throughout the storyline. Her performance in this episode was not too bad - I cannot think of a great replication of childbirth in any soap and nor was this. Against that her failure to be seen bonding with the baby was great - the look on her face immediately after birth and the lack of contact was good. This girl has done well in my opinion.
Tyrone continues to be a favourite of mine and Vera had two great lines at the expense of Norris tonight - both nice scripting.
And can Rebecca not see that Martin will never leave Gail - he may not love her but can he ever escape the familial ties?
K Richard Whitbread
Alison has had a hard time and been in labour all night. Kevin is concerned, but the midwife says both mother and emerging baby are doing well.
Mark calls at Linda's flat to take her in to work. Mike has already left on his business trip, so the lovers stay to take a shower together before work. They arrive late, and Mark feels guilty, but Linda is indifferent.
Martin and Gail visit Sarah-Lou and the baby girl. SL has been asleep, but seems comfortable holding the baby after Gail hands her to her.
Alison finally delivers a baby boy. All seems fine with young Jake, and the midwife advises Alison to get some sleep while she can. Kevin is proud and happy and goes off back to Coronation Street to spread the news.
Maya moans to Dev that the shop is very quiet. Norris explains that Streetcars are running low cost taxis to Freshcos. Maya goes round to confront Vik and ask him what he thinks he is doing. Vik tries to tell her he knew nothing about it. Eileen looks a little sheepish as Vik asks her for an explanation. She soon recovers her composure and lays into Maya about taking advantage by not paying for her cabs. Maya is affronted that Vik begrudges her an 'occasional lift' and accuses him of having no respect for the family.
Kevin can't contain his pride as he shows photos of Jake at 5 minutes old to Rosie and Sophie. Sally shows a polite interest. Sophie gets very excited about seeing their new brother, but Sally says they must wait until tomorrow. Sally tells Kevin she knew he had always wanted a son. Kevin firmly replies that he wanted all his children - and still does.
In the hospital, Alison wakes up and goes to the baby's cot. She cannot wake him and rushes into the corridor, shouting for help. The midwife decides to rush him to the treatment room and asks someone else to remain with Alison, who is of course very upset.
Kevin, Jim and Ken are celebrating the birth in the Rovers when Kevin's mobile phone rings. He assumes it will be his dad, Bill. It is in fact the hospital. He tells Jim that something is wrong with the baby and he has to return there immediately.
Vik goes to the shop to clear the air about the supermarket misunderstanding. He says he has told the drivers and Eileen that the offer has finished. Dev is disparaging about what kind of control that Vik has in that firm, since he didn't know about it in the first place. Maya insists on giving Vik some money to cover the fares outstanding.
Kevin, Alison and the midwife wait anxiously for some news; Kevin getting angrier and more frustrated by the second. Finally, the consultant paediatrician arrives. The news is not good. Jake has contracted an infection - Group B Strep., during delivery. It is so severe that nothing can be done. Jake will die. They will be taken to him to hold him and cuddle him and prepare to say goodbye to him.
Vik returns to the cab office and tells Eileen to stay out of his family business. She says that Vik must cut his apron strings from an Aunt who expects him to go running at the drop of a hat. They have to stop giving free rides or their profits will be non-existant. Eileen reminds Vik that she does know about the running of a cab business - unlike him and Steve - who she regards as a bunch of 'useless amateurs' and she does like working there, and does not want to see Streetcars go out of business. Vik knows when he has been beaten and goes to make a cup of tea as instructed.
Gail chats to a nurse about how well SL is coping. Of course, young mothers have so much energy. Gail gets a gentle reminder to be the Grandma and leave the hard work to the mum. Meanwhile SL gets to show off her daughter to Candice - who doesn't want to hold it for fear of breaking it. SL says 'her, not 'it'' and says she thought of Bethany for her name. Candice pulls a face and says Britney would be loads more cool. SL has not decided yet.
Kevin and Alison cuddle Jake as she cries. They both cry. The hospital chaplain is brought in to them.
Sally and the girls are at home wrapping a present for Jake. Sally has to deal with some awkward questions about who will live where, and explain that Jake will live with Alison and their daddy. He might be able to come and stay with them when he is bigger.
Mark and Linda have a close encounter up against the filing cabinet - until Hayley walks in. She is having a collection for Alison, and Mark gives generously. Hayley wants Linda to accompany her to the hospital later, but Linda says she has other plans and sends her love. Mark is pleased to learn that Linda's plans for the evening do include him.
Jake dies, and the midwife leaves the greiving couple together. The credits roll silently, and the Cadbury sponsorship scene is also silent.
Writer: Julie Gearey Director:John Anderson
Episode - 4834 - sponsored by Cadbury's Brought to you by ITV.
Update written by Helen Johns.
Hayley arrives at the hospital with a bunch of balloons, asking for Alison. The midwife intercepts her.
Mark is in the Rovers. Leanne is looking forward to him taking her to a special night at Fresh, the club in town. But Linda tells him to blow her out - tell him you've got some figures to look at. He makes his excuses, and then she suggests he takes her instead. Geena tells Leanne that her and Bobbi are going out and might end up there, why doesn't she join them? But she decides to have a night of pampering instead.
Gail and Sarah-Lou are discussing the name, looks like they've settled on Britney, when Hayley arrives looking distraught. She doesn't want to spoil their joy but tells them the news.
Ali is crying in a private room saying that a baby was all she ever wanted.
Hayley returns to the Rovers and asks for a brandy. She tells everyone who's there.
Sarah-Lou is thinking about what Allison's going through. Should she go and see her? Gail advises her to wait for a while and try not to upset herself. She leaves and Sarah-Lou picks up Britney and cradles her.
The midwife visits Kevin and Alison in the room. He asks for her to be given some sedation as she's exhausted from lack of sleep. But the midwife says it's better for her to grieve and get it all out now. She offers to setup a camp bed for Kevin as it's better for the parents to be together at this time. He leaves to get some clothes, as Alison has finally dropped off to sleep.
Linda and Mark arrive at the club. She's wearing a fuchsia top and black leather miniskirt. He teases her about being too old for this scene. We see Geena and Bobbi queuing for the ladies.
Alison wakes up and calls for Kevin. He's arrived at Sally's, getting them out of bed.
Alison has dressed and is trying to leave. They stop her as she walks past the desk. She says that she's been cooped up there for weeks and wants to get back to her own bed without the smell of bleach. The midwife persuades her that she's better there. Alison had been sleeping and dreamed of Jake. Will she wake up every day and think he's still there? She thinks that Kevin blames her for his death.
S-L is trying to soothe Britney, who won't stop crying. The woman in the next bed scowls at her.
Linda sees Mark with a young blonde student and sees her off. They joke and kiss and Geena sees them.
Sarah-Lou is walking round with Britney trying to get her to sleep. Alison arrives. She offers to help and when SL says that she's already fed the baby, realises she needs winding. SL was scared to do that in case she hurt her.
Mark and Linda discuss what to do about Geena. Mark doesn't care about Bobbi, he can sack her, but Geena is another matter. He'll say he was pretending to be Linda's boyfriend to scare some fella off. But Linda goes to talk to her. Geena immediately says it's none of her business and walks off.
Britney is calmer. The 2 women have moved to Alison's room. SL says that it's not fair, all Alison wanted was the baby, while she... She recounts the problems: every time she feeds her she sicks it up, she won't stop crying and she's changed her 3 times. Alison points out she needs changing again. Why doesn't she look after Britney for a while so SL can get some sleep. She agrees, just for half an hour.
Kevin is crying at Sally's. He said that they could have prevented Jake from catching the infection if they'd known.
Alison gets Jake's baby clothes out of her bag.
Sally tries to get Kevin to stay at their place and get some sleep. He asks her to tell the girls what's happened, then calls the hospital. Alison reaches the desk at this point and stops the call, then leaves the hospital.
Linda is still trying to explain to Geena. She's not interested, she thinks it's seedy. For some reason, Linda has decided to tell her the true story, that she really cares for Mike but then met Mark. And he has all of Mike's good points, but is more up for it. If only they'd met first. Geena reminds her that Leanne is also involved. But Linda says that Mark was finishing with her tonight.
Sally looks in on Kevin but he's gone.
Bobbi joins the group at the club but they don't resolve anything.
Kevin returns to the hospital and sees that the room is empty and there's now an empty cot by the bed. Sarah-Lou arrives and tells him how Alison helped her with Britney. Where is she?
Alison is at the flat, showing Britney round Jake's nursery. She gives her a bottle.
The midwife looks through the wardrobe in Alison's room to see what's gone. She asks SL what she was wearing when she saw her, then calls security. Kevin thinks that's a bit premature, but she's not taking any risks.
Martin comes downstairs to answer the phone. Yes, yes, you what! We'll be right there!
The man from the hospital trust is looking at the security tape. They see Alison leaving at 4:20am. He tells Kevin that the police want full media coverage giving details of Alison and the baby. Again, Kevin thinks that's premature, but it's pointed out to him that the situation is serious: a newborn baby and a grieving mother. They don't know how she'll react. Kevin points out that he did ask for her to be sedated.
Tyrone is helping Rita with the papers when Gail jumps in the car and Martin goes screeching off down the road, nearly knocking Monica over.
Kevin gives a photo of Alison to the police. He tells them when he last saw her and how she was at the time. Where might she go. Well, she just wanted to go home, but isn't that too obvious if she knows they're looking for her? The doctor has joined them and says this is a very instinctive time. The need to hold a baby will be very strong. She won't necessarily be trying to hide from them. They agree to go back to the flat and see if she's been there.
Martin and Gail arrive and meet Kevin in the hall. He says he's sorry. They don't know that he knows and say they're sorry about Jake and how's Alison. Missing. Hold on, says Martin, as he works it out. Kevin leaves with the policewoman, saying that Alison won't harm the baby.
The policeman reassures Sarah-Lou that's it's hard to hide a baby. She's worried that everyone who hears about it on the news will think she's stupid, but he says they'll all be on her side. Martin and Gail burst in and he starts shouting the odds.
Audrey joins Ken in the café. She can't resist a bacon sandwich as she walks past. Hayley has the radio on and they hear the bulletin about Alison taking a baby. Audrey doesn't know the story.
Tyrone is walking Monica in the Red Rec and sees Alison on a park bench. The baby is now dressed in blue and he assumes it's Jake. He makes small talk about how she is. She's distressed by Monica and leaves.
Linda and Mark are having breakfast. Linda is very calm. She says Bobbi won't tell as she'll know the story could only have come from her. And I can sack her, says Mark. But Geena is different, she'll want to protect Leanne. So Mark will have to dump her.
At the flat, there's no sign that Alison's been there. The policewoman wonders where else she could go. She asks Kevin for her parent's address, though he assures her this will be the last place she goes. Tyrone arrives, concerned for Alison. He explains he saw her on the Red Rec ans she wan'ts looking well. Off they go.
Tyrone goes over what Alison said to him. She mentioned that Kevin hadn't picked up the pram from the baby shop. So they go to Drummond Street.
Mark appears on Leanne's doorstep. She knows this can only mean he wants to borrow money or dump her.
Audrey arrives in a flurry at the hospital. Why didn't they call her, she had to hear it on the radio. A shouting match ensues, where she says she'll have to hear about them dredging the canal before she knows what's happened, Martin says she's only thinking of herself again and Gail wants everyone to stop upsetting Sarah-Lou. The policeman arrives with all the noise. He asks how SL is. She says that she knows Alison won't hurt her baby and was only trying to help. Audrey calms down and hugs her.
Geena arrives as Mark is leaving. Leanne explains that she's been binned and Geena makes comforting noises, fella's eh? Leanne compares herself to Mark's normal girlfriends and says she knows she was his bit of rough.
The police car arrives at the baby shop and Kevin sees Alison outside. He goes to talk to her and try to persuade her to give up the baby. She explains to him that she still feels like a mother. They'll give her tablets to make her body stop being a mother's body and then it will be like Jake never existed.
The Platts have calmed down. Martin goes off to the staff-room to see what's on the news and get some fresh air. Gail says that no-one would blame SL for trusting Alison. SL explains how all the time she was in hospital she was only thinking about herself: what people would think about her, how it would affect her at school and with boyfriends, and she just wanted to be like everyone else. But she knows she can't be like that now. She couldn't stand it if anything happened to Britney. She just wants her back to hold her and knows what has happened to her life isn't the baby's fault.
Rebecca sees Martin outside and goes to talk to him. But he's not very communicative. My best friend's wife has snatched my daughter's baby. Can she help? No, she can't. She leaves in a huff.
Alison explains what she was thinking to Kevin. They moved her away from the other mothers but she could still hear the babies crying. Sarah-Lou didn't have a clue how to look after her baby, she didn't even know how to wind her. Kevin reminds Alison that SL will be feeling for Britney what they feel without Jake. She has to give her back. But then it will all be over.
Meanwhile, the cops are on the phone and another police car arrives. Tyrone asks them to give Kevin more time.
Alison says that Kevin can't feel the same way she does about Jake, she carried him and felt him kicking. Without him, she doesn't have anything. Kevin says they can try again. She sees the police getting out of the car. She says she can't face not being a mother, she was just trying to help SL but then couldn't give the baby back. She starts talking as if it's going to end, saying that her parents will bring all the Cheryl episode up again and that no-one will understand, nodding towards the approaching police. She gives Britney to Kevin and then throws herself under a passing truck.
The program finishes with silence and an aeriel view of everyone milling round the truck.
A trying time in Weatherfield at present. So straight on with tonight's events. As ever the following is entirely due to the creativity of those involved. Sponsorship from Cadburys who are sending messages to individual "fathers" for the week leading up to Father's Day next Sunday.
Written by: Peter Whalley Directed by: Tony Prescott
At the Platts everyone has lost most of a night's sleep, even David has been awake. Audrey arrives for a quick cuddle before opening the salon later. Sarah Lou drops off to sleep but gets handed back the baby. Martin is going to take David out to make him feel wanted. Rebecca phones the mobile - she is desperate to talk to Martin but can get nothing out of him and he refuses to find a way of fitting a meeting into his day (he is on holiday). They profess love for each other but Martin hardly sounds as if he means it. The phone goes and Kev asks if he can come round. Martin and Gail say yes but tell Sarah Lou that she can go upstairs.
Kev, looking awful, lets Sally into the flat. She has come to see if he needs anything and if he is feeling any better. Sadly, but hardly surprising Kev is beside himself. The funerals will be on Monday at 1:00pm - he hopes Sal will come. Sal checks the kitchen prior to going shopping. There will be no church service.
Jim as got a bank loan against the house - he is a rich man - £10,000 inheritance and £25,000 loan - he is worth £35,000. Sadly he can hardly rush round to Kev and thrust the money in his hands.
Kev arrives at the Platts to say he is sorry for Alison's actions. She cannot say she is sorry - he wants them to know she would have said it. Kev is very upset about the hospital's lack of control and sounds off at Martin - were they all on a tea break so they left her? Martin himself feels unhappy about the events and Kev departs still upset. SL understands.
Mike has returned to find that the business has been running smoothly. He offers Mark and Linda lunch so they go to the Rovers for a drink. As they walk out of the flat Mark and Linda briefly hold hands.
Kev wanders into the Rovers to tell them about the funerals. Ken re- assures Kev that there will be many people there. Kev doubts it. Gwen and Janice are discussing the former's financial problems. Gwen admits she raided the joint account. Linda buys a round of drinks so that she can put the squeeze on Geena - the latter agrees to say nothing.
Rebecca is bemoaning her lot to Nurse Carol Delaney. Rebecca has begun to realise that Martin will never leave his family. She determines to visit them at home so that she can see his reaction to her visit - she reckons it will confirm or deny her fears.
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Kev lets Sal into the flat again. Jim is already there so he is re- assuring Kev that he and Tyrone will look after the business. Kev asks after Tyrone - he saw it all. Tyrone has been quiet and hopefully the funeral will do him good. Kev reminds him there are two funerals and they will be buried together.
Martin is off out with David to allow some peace and quiet. SL asks if they can go to the funeral, she admits she was not nice to Alison but she needs to show she holds nothing against her now.
Rita buys Sal a red wine for her throat - in this scene Sal's voice is cracking - she must have been in a bad way. Sal reminds Rita of some of the history and promises to talk to Kevin.
Linda buys Janice and Gwen a drink - Mike has gone to check the books for the last few days. Janice observes that nothing gets past Mike - Linda had better never play around - Mike would spot it immediately. Linda agrees.
Jim arrives and asks Gwen to come home - he wants to talk about something now. She tries to demur but Jim insists. Janice observes to Linda that only love or the other would demand her removal and that Jim's attitude did not seem particularly romantic - it looks as though Gwen is in trouble. Outside Jim tells Gwen that he has just checked his balance at the cash machine and it is £1,000 light. What has she been doing? They enter no 11 and Gwen admits she took the money. He does not feel he can trust her. He wants her to leave now. He will not let her say anything. He wants to end their relationship if he cannot trust her. He reckons it was theft because she had not explained. She says that she wanted to do something for both of them - she wanted to book a holiday they both need in fact a honeymoon. She stomps up five stairs (thanks for that observation to my daughter Stephanie) to pack and move out.
In the background of the previous street shot we saw Rebecca crossing the road and she now rings the bell and Gail, surprised at another visitor waking up and gently opening the door to preventing waking Britney and SL, and is a little surprised to find Rebecca but welcomes her and offers her a cup of tea. SL stirs. Rebecca looks around the family home, perhaps wondering just why she is there.
Gwen is storming around no 11 taking the odd cooking utensil whilst Jim is alternately holding his head and shaking it as he cannot understand what is going on. Eventually Jim gets her to explain in more detail. Gwen thought that they could make a go of it - so she was hoping that a holiday/honeymoon would put the seal on the relationship. Again she stomps off up five stairs.
Rebecca is cuddling Britney and realises that Martin's home life is secure, especially when Gail launches yet again into her recurrent theme concerning the supportiveness of Martin to her and to Sarah Lou. He might have to work long hours now but he has been there when they needed him. Rebecca realises that Martin is not gong to leave and she departs rapidly not having drunk her tea.
Rita is visiting Kev and (no doubt remembering her own experiences with Alan Bradley also killed in a traffic accident with a tram) reminds him that he knows that Alison was a good person and she deserves to be properly remembered by the one person who loved her. Kevin was the only person who trusted her and they did have some good times. He must remember those and he must ensure that the memory of Alison as a person rests with him. He must remember the Alison that needs to be remembered. Kev was there and feels he could have prevented the "suicide" but perhaps Alison was not herself and she did not really know the truck was there. As ever Rita is pouring calming oil on disturbed waters and we can but hope that Kevin will recover. {Sadly I see little future for him in the Street - too many memories will I fear mean that before long he will be on his way}. One can sense that as Rita's words sink in Kev has started on the long road to recovery.
Martin and David return home. David seems a lot happier. Gail says that Rebecca visited but Martin is puzzled.
Back at no 11 Jim decides to accept her explanation and interprets that she is asking him to marry her. Gwen does not want to lose him but feels she has ruined it. Jim says she can stay providing they go on that honeymoon. They embrace and behind Jim's back Gwen realises the enormity of the hole which she dug and into which she has fallen.
Sadly some of the future storylines are already public knowledge as simple telling on the programme is no longer enough and they must be spun in advance (witness the deaths elsewhere of Peggy, Grant and Phil).
Anyway as ever can I thank Tina O'Brien for Sarah Lou? I reckon that the young lady (who received several awards at the soap awards) has been brilliant in recent months and she has a story with young Britney that will last a long time.
Sally - I hope your voice is better shortly (and your haircut).
Is Gail actually ever going to find out - can Sally keep it a secret?
And Gwen and Jim? Personally I felt that Gwen would be a far better story than has happened and I shall be sad to see Jim go but we are obviously moving in that direction.
KRW
Kevin looks around the empty nursery on the morning of the funerals. He is disturbed by Sally, Danny, Rosie and Sophie who have come to see how he is. The girls have brought their father some sweets. Despite Kevin's fragile condition, he manages a big hug and a smile for them. Danny takes the children away and Kevin cries and hugs Sally.
Martin is leaving to go to work and arranges to see Gail at the Crematorium, since he will only be able to take a couple of hours off. Gwen makes sure that Jim hasn't said anything to anyone about their engagement - since, as she points out, it is the day of her friend's funeral.
Sally gives Kevin a glass of brandy to steady his nerves. He remembers that it was left over from his and Alison's delayed Christmas; they celebrated on January 7th, after she had come home. He wonders what he will do about the future. Sally reassures him that she will help him get through whatever is to come. He clings to her hand.
Martin gets to work and finds out from Carole that Rebecca is not there - she has resigned. Apparently she has left a note on his desk.
Rita and Vera are not relishing the upcoming funeral and ponder with Betty on the tragedy of young life cut short.
Kevin emerges from the flat and seems overwhelmed by the number of people waiting around the cars to go with him. Sally guides him into the car and the cortege sets off.
Martin is distraught when Carole tells him Rebecca is going to Dubai, and he cannot contact her: the mobile phone is switched off. He realises now why Rebecca had visited his house. Carole has tried to keep out of it but she takes pity on him and tells him the plane leaves today. If he leaves now he might catch her at the airport, Carole will cover for him in the office.
Break:
Sweets, specs, body spray, magazines, digital electronic stuff, hair remover, chocolate, garage services.
Martin gallops through the airport and finally catches up with Rebecca at the check-in. He persuades her to go for a coffee and talk (or rather listen to him).
Back at Kevin's flat after the funeral, everyone is having drinks and standing around murmuring in groups. Alison's dad thanks Kevin for his heartfelt words about his daughter. He is very stilted, but Alison's mum doesn't speak at all. Alison's dad concludes by giving Kevin a handshake and a quick hug, then they leave. Ken reassures Kevin that everyone in the community is there for him, should he need them. Sally helps out and serves drinks to everyone.
Most of the mourners then adjourn to the Rovers. Martin's absence at the funeral is noted by Rita. Gail blames work - he wouldn't have missed it if there was not a very good reason.
Of course, the reason is that he is still at the airport with Rebecca. He agonises over her decision and tries to make her change her mind. They are both upset, and go over all the pros and cons of the situation. There is no point me repeating it all to you here. Suffice to say that Rebecca makes it clear that this would not be for a 'break' - she is going, and she's not coming back.
Sally clears up at Kevin's while he recovers from the day, which has all been a blur for him. He thanks her for her support, saying he couldn't have got through it without her. Sally decides she needs to get back home, and Kevin says he needs some time alone now.
Gail telephones the hospital and is puzzled to be told that Martin left at twelve and hasn't returned.
In the Rovers, Vera overhears Jim tell Gwen they could have an engagement party. Despite him telling her to keep it quiet, Vera broadcasts to the entire pub that Jim and Gwen are to be married. Janice is most interested (in a sceptical sort of way) to hear Gwen reveal that she has bought a honeymoon to Corfu. Gwen smiles falsely but can't quite cover her misgivings.
Martin follows Rebecca as far as passport control and is still trying to get her to stay with him as she goes through. She has left it to the last minute as it is, and her name is called over the tannoy since they plane is waiting to depart. She goes, crying, as Martin is left behind, also crying.
Kevin stares around the nursery in silence, then savagely tears at the frieze on the wall, and rips the mobile down. He sinks down, sobbing, in the doorway as a tinny tune plays from a toy.
Martin arrives home in tears, drinking from a small bottle of spirits. As soon as he walks through the door Gail challenges him with a barrage of questions. He slumps in the chair and she realises something is wrong. He tells her to leave it but she insists on knowing what is wrong, she wants to help him. When he tells her that she can't help him, Gail becomes worried. Martin finally sobs 'She's gone. She's gone and left me!' Gail is confused and tells Martin she doesn't understand. 'Rebecca.' he barks, 'She's left me. So now do you understand?'
Gail can only look at her husband in stunned silence, while her eyes do that thing of looking from one eye to the other of her partner, so that she looks as if she is reading something very fast. Realisation dawns and tears well up. Credits.
Writer: Peter Mills Director: Tony Prescott Episode 4838 - sponsored by Cadbury's Brought to you by ITV.
Good episode. Worth waiting for (it was late because of some footie match).
See you all next week.
Helen Johns, Salisbury
We start at the Platts, picking up where we left off on Mon. Gail says she doesn't understand. Martin explains it simply: Rebecca's gone. She's left me. I've been having an affair with her. I love her. Gail's hand shoots to her mouth. Martin wonders why he's telling Gail now, when it's over. He'd been meaning to tell her and move out for ages, but couldn't because of what was happening at home. So he lost Rebecca. Gail looks at him in pleading incredulity.
Sally and Danny are walking home from the Rovers after the funeral. She wants to go and see Kevin again. He says she should give him some time alone. Why not go after tea? After all, her kids need her too. (Said rather bitterly).
Gail has her quiet voice on. When I asked you if you were having an affair, you swore you were just good friends. We were then, it started after that. Are you saying I put the idea in your head? No, it wasn't a cheap affair, I didn't plan it, it just happened. Cheating on your wife doesn't "just happen". Martin doesn't know what to say: he loved Rebecca, he didn't plan to. His problem is that he met Gail first. She looks agonised at this. You must really despise me, I'm stopping you from being with the woman you love. You and Sarah-Lou says Martin. Do you know how cruel that sounds? I'm more hurt than I've ever been. Martin goes shouty - you must have had some idea! But Gail threw Rebecca's husband out for telling her the truth, she watched Rebecca cradle her grandchild in her arms. She's sorry for being so completely stupid. Martin goes to comfort her but she tells him fiercely not to touch her.
Jim is congratulated by Betty in the Rovers which is how Steve hears about the engagement. He's stunned but says his dad deserves it. Janice and Gwen are at a table and Janice questions her on the marriage. You're taking him for a ride. Gwen says she cares for him, but Janice thinks she only cares for his money. Gwen says it's nothing to do with her and flounces off.
Martin is drinking now. Where's she gone? Dubai. Forever? May as well be. So why tell me now? Why didn't you keep your grubby secret? Does it make you feel better to see me suffer? You say you love her, but it's a funny kind of love that turns a loving husband into a manipulative liar who enjoys other people's pain. Martin is very quiet throughout this. Gail turns angry and says she wants to punch him so he won't get up again. But that will make him feel better, which is the last thing she wants, so she won't.
Sally arrives at Kevin's where he's clearing the nursery. Looking at it makes him feel sick. He'd only just got his son but had already planned his life out in his head. Now all he has is a photo. He kisses Sally in his distress, then asks her to go. She's reluctant, but he begs her to leave and eventually she does.
Martin says he was going to tell Gail about the affair the night he found out about Sarah-Lou. But he didn't want her to face that alone, so tried to do the right thing by the family. She calls him a cheating coward. What's he going to do now? What does she want him to do? Gail can't believe he's interested in what she thinks, after all this time. But since he asks, she wants him out.
At this fraught point a jaunty Audrey returns with the children. David immediately goes upstairs to play computer games and Sarah-Lou notices that Britney needs her nappy changing, so goes into the kitchen. Audrey comments that she's doing well. She asks about the funeral and notices that Gail is looking drawn. But she's able to pass this off as down to the funeral and Audrey leaves.
Gail doesn't want to row any more now the kids are back. She asks Martin to leave, but warns it's not over yet (implying some future punishment). Sarah-Lou calls from the kitchen for more baby wipes.
Interval, phew!
It's the next morning. Sally and Danny didn't sleep well. She was worrying about Kevin and Danny was worrying about her. Shouldn't his family be looking after him? But Sally says they're not around and he needs people with him. She's going to go round again later. The girls arrive. What would they like for breakfast, last night's chop suey or cereal? Chop suey! they scream in delight. But Sally gives them cereal anyway. What an annoying woman she is.
Jim and Gwen are also having breakfast. She's looking grumpy again, she didn't want Jim telling everyone about the wedding (presumably because it will now be harder to get out of). But Jim would have asked her himself if he'd thought she'd say yes. He's really happy and wants to tell everyone about it, so he does. Gwen smiles wanly.
Martin returns to pick up some things. He's told to sit down. He apologises for the way he explained things last night, he didn't mean to hurt Gail, but it was the truth. Meanwhile, she wants his help to see if they can put it back together again.
Factory lunch time. Janice apologises to Gwen. She says she's in a mess and invites Janice over to the house for lunch.
Is it my age? asks Gail gently. No. She pursues it. 10 years makes a difference. No Gail, it's not your age, it's not you at all. It's me. I met another woman and I fell in love with her. You keep saying you love her even though you know it hurts me. Despite that, and wanting to smash you in the face (yes, she really said that, and with some venom) I still love you. What do you think of that? I didn't want it to be like this, moans Martin. No, you wanted to leave us and go off with another woman. But you didn't have the guts to do it. No I didn't, he admits miserably. So whatever you think of me now, when you had the chance to go, you didn't take it. I don't want to give up on this, you're still my husband and I still love you. But Martin can't say the same. Then we both know what it's like to love someone who doesn't love us back. Martin starts to dispute this, but Gail says that Rebecca's left him. She ended it, you didn't leave me. Are you going to leave me now, now that she's not waiting? Split the family apart for nothing? Does that make sense? But nothing makes sense to Martin any more, and I'm not surprised. Gail is really putting the squeeze on. You can feel his anguish as he feels himself trapped in a loveless relationship. The years of guilt and pain stretching out before him. Just get on a plane Martin, and give us all a break.
Another confession has been going on at Gwen's and Janice now knows the full story. So there wasn't a bingo win then? No, I got a loan. And now you're paying interest. But of course Gwen didn't think about that. It was the only way out she could see at the time. Now she wants to get away, leave it all behind. All she's got for it is a few bits of furniture, and she doesn't really like them any more (!) Janice points out she tried this before and it didn't work. But that's because she didn't go far enough. Now another country...
Martin sees a way out. He tells Gail she deserves better and tries to get his things. But she hasn't finished with him yet. It's time to bring up Brian. When he died, she thought she'd never love again. But she did, him (the implication being that Martin will get over Rebecca). But she's not dead, says Martin. She's not coming back, says Gail. You can leave us but we're still here and don't want to lose you. Gail wants a fresh start. Rebecca's gone but she's still there. It's his choice. Martin looks perplexed.
Gwen is drying the dishes when there's a knock on the door. And sadly the tape cuts out at this point. But I'm guessing it's debt heavies.
Kath
In the UK a Sunday is set aside to honour fathers. This year it is today and as ever my daughters duly provided cards and my wife a barbecue. Unlike a few recent bank holidays today's celebrations were incorporated into the events on the Street. So with no more ado over to Weatherfield, copyright of the programmes and characters remain entirely with ITV Television and sponsors are Cadbury's Dairy Milk.
Written by: David Lane Directed by: Philip Wood
We open at the Platts where in ignorance of Martin's recent activities, both Sarah Lou and David are cajoled into cooking breakfast for Martin. Cards and presents are waiting. They both hug and kiss him and call him the best dad in the world. Gail's face tells a different story.
Sal meets Kev in the Street and she invites him to a barbecue organised by the gurls - not enough room in the yard to swing a sausage really but they insisted. He agrees.
Gary is knocking on Jim's door - "Are you all right?" We see Jim drinking a whisky. Gary peers through the window. Eventually Janice enters by the back door. Jim explains that Gwen has gone and that she was not mugged. Janice wants to know - Jim tells her to pour a drink and listen to the story, which he tells. Later Janice eventually admits she knew of Gwen's debts. Jim is upset and sends her on her way so she can tell the world outside.
Betty embarrasses Mark into buying a round for Mike and Linda for father's day as he has clearly forgotten completely. On the other side of the bar Ken announces he has had a card from Daniel (to rub it into Mike) but he has had nothing from his other children. Mike's grim face breaks into a smile!!
The gurls and Danny are cooking and Sal gets Kev a beer when he arrives. The gurls have made him a card - with Alison and Jake as angels in heaven - Sal knew nothing about it. Kev is touched and they go inside to get Kev's present. Danny offers to go away, leaving Sal to look after him but Sal says he must stay. Kev comes out wearing a sweatshirt with his and the gurls on a picture on his chest. Danny later gets his reward for staying - a cuddle from Sal as they pass which Kev sees and he makes his apologies and departs crying, realising he has now lost two families.
Audrey arrives in time for dinner at the Platts. Martin tries to tell Audrey that there is not enough chicken to go round. Gail tells him off for being rude. She tells him to carry on as if nothing was wrong. David and Martin are later washing up with Audreh looking after the baby. The names discussion comes up and SL suggest Bethany and then Rebecca which Audrey endorses and Martin drops the plate he is drying (silly boy - always break them before washing them).
Mike observes it is nice to have his family around him. Ken is glad that Susan is no longer around as she would still be married to Mike. he asks if Linda realises Mike's addiction to young women. Linda responds sharply as one might expect, saying that Mike has a lot of life and does not deserve to end up with a dried up old bag. Later Mark asks Linda why she is not with her family - she tells him that her family is not as interesting as his. Mike adds that Linda likes being a mystery.
Janice arrives in the Rovers with Hayley just behind. Janice tells her about Gwen's departure and has to buy a Hayley a vodka she is so shocked. Later at the Rovers Janice brings Gary up to date and he rushes round to see Jim before Betty has finished pulling his pint.
Sal tracks Kev down at the garage and he admits he should not have gone round today. Kev has realised that Sally is now happy - he had not noticed before. She has got over their break-up and he has many problems. Sally says she is sorry but Kevin acknowledges that she and Danny are a couple. He thought about committing suicide in the garage and recalls Don Brennan - but he could not leave the gurls. Kev reckons he will be all right and Sal offers to find the kettle and make some tea.
Audrey wants the father on the birth certificate for posterity. Gail and Martin are against it. Audrey wants him taking to the vet with the latter preventing repetition of the events.
Gary arrives at Jim's and the latter tells him the full story. Jim thinks the money is still at the police station (I would not bet on it). Gary points out she can collect it. But Jim cannot think about it - he is writing off the £35k in his mind. Jim is glad to be well rid of her.
Kev admits to Sal that he destroyed everything they ever had. But he feels cheated over Alison - that something is paying him back for the way he treated Sal and the kids. He woke at 5 and had to go out and now he cannot go back to the flat because Alison is not there. Sal offers for the gurls to come and stay. She then suggests that Kev goes to Germany and stays with Bill - Kev needs to get away and spend some time with his father. Kev agrees to ring - it is Father's day. Sal hugs him.
At the Platts the grand parents and Audrey and still discussing the child's birth certificate. SL comes downstairs and admits she can hear the discussion. The baby will be called Bethany and no Neil on the certificate.
Jim is drinking - he gets out another bottle, looks at the ring and then knocks bottles and ring off of the table. Roll credits.
Betty recycled a joke from a while ago about the sunny quality service the punters get in the Rovers - is this becoming a standing joke between script writers and am I late in spotting it.
I assume Gwen has made off with the £35,000 - she would be silly not to. Just how deranged is Jim - we will probably find out on Monday evening at 10:00pm.
Kev will be out for a few weeks. Can we hope that like Norman he will eventually find someone nice and normal to meet and settle down with?
KRW
Sarah Louise decided to call her daughter Bethany Britney Platt, and the family went to register her.
Steve got a letter saying that he might be called as a witness for the prosecution when Jez's trial comes to court. The committal hearing is to take place soon. He went to see Natalie to ask her to help get him out of it. She said she couldn't do anything about it. Even if Steve was put on the stand and refused to testify, they could still just read out his statement.
Kevin leaves for Germany, to spend some time with his Dad. Danny seemed relieved that he would get some time with Sally.
Jim tells Gary that he should get his money back from the police soon. He plans to close the joint account and put the money in a new account in his name only. Gary says that Jim was lucky, really, to get the money back. Jim is bitter about the whole experience and says he doesn't feel very lucky. The debt collector, Mrs Gardner, called at Underworld and at Jim's house looking for Gwen. Jim tells her to come back at six to collect Gwen's belongings. Jim made a pile of the furniture in the middle of the street. When Mike Baldwin complained about the pile of junk, Jim went to the garage and got some petrol. He poured it around the heap and set fire to the furniture, watched by the factory girls, Steve and the debt collectors, in the street.
Tyrone asked Norris to allow him and Maria some time alone at the B&B. Norris refused, saying he wanted to watch the news. Tyrone hid a sausage behind Norris's cushion so that Monica would 'intimidate' Norris. It worked, and Norris went out. Tyrone told Maria that his parents were rich and lived in Spain. Maria mentioned it to Vera, but she did not let Maria know the truth about Tyrone's family.
Pat persuaded Steve to take on a new trainee builder, Sam Kingston, on the building site. Pat omitted to mention that Sam is his nephew. Sam is keen enough to work, but seems a few bricks short of a hod-load.
Linda refused to go on Gwen's machine to help Mike get an order finished. She said she knew of a friend of hers at another company who would be a good replacement.
Martin tells Danny that the atmosphere at home is unbearable. He is only staying for the sake of the kids. He doesn't know what possessed him to tell Gail about the affair.
Writer: Peter Whalley Director: Philip Wood Episode 4842 - sponsored by Cadbury's Miniature Heroes Brought to you by ITV.
Update written by Helen Johns.
Jim burned Gwen's furniture. Des burned his and Steph's boat. There was no comparison really. The Des inferno was harrowing. Jim's effort was unrealistic and farcical.
Due to a combination of Euro 2000 rescheduling and incompetence on my part, I didn't get a tape of Wed's episode. So I'm doing Fri instead.
Every time the phone goes at the garage, Tyrone wants to know what car it is. He's fed up of working on heaps of junk. Jim tells him that Mr. Jewson will be in this afternoon. He's got an Alfa Romeo.
Martin comes downstairs dressed in an old jumper. You're not going dressed like that says Gail, (they're off to get their family portrait done). But Martin isn't in the mood for happy families, he feels hypocritical. That didn't stop you when you were with Rebecca and Cathy and all the others Gail doesn't know about. There weren't any others, shouts Martin. He wonders how the relationship can work when they're constantly sniping at each other. Gail hopes that when he sees the finished portrait he'll realise what he nearly threw away.
Pat at the building site has a dead cert horse for Steve. He's not interested, as yesterday's came nowhere. But Pat got this from the trainer himself, Frank Dyson! This seems to clinch it and Steve and all the rest of the lads put a fiver on at 6-1.
Audrey and Sarah-Lou arrive all dressed up. Audrey is in lilac satin and Sarah-Lou wears matching top and trousers of hot turquoise. Martin is now more suitably dressed in a suit and tie, but something still has to be done with David, who's in his tracksuit.
Sam in on his way to the betting shop when he sees Jack fiddling with something in his ear. It's the radio, tuned to the horse-racing. He asks Jack what he thinks about Chunky Monkey in the 3:30. Jack checks his form guide and sees the horse has never won a race. This filters through Sam's brain and he turns from the bookies, pocketing the £40 the lads have given him. He goes to the café and has a steak and chips with a cream horn to follow. Pat sees him there and wonders where he got the money from as he was skint earlier. It's a sub from me mum, he claims.
Mr. Jewson arrives at the garage, but he's brought the wife's metro. He wouldn't let her drive the Alfa after her 3rd prang. Tyrone is disappointed. He says that you can't be too sure with high performance cars, and even though it's driving like a dream, he'd find something wrong with it if he brought it in. Oops. Mr. Jewson is not impressed and takes his metro elsewhere.
Linda is complaining to Mike about her wasted day, today of all days. What's special about today he asks. She grunts and goes onto the floor, where the girls all wish her happy birthday and she even gets a few presents. But she's got Mike sussed. He's just pretending he's forgotten. Mark goes to ask him. Mike does have a surprise planned, but if Linda thinks that, he'll have to put her off the scent. Time for a double bluff.
The Platts are at the photographers (I think it was Cledwen Thomas, but I didn't see the credits as silly Carol Vorderman appeared to witter on about her new show). He's introduced to the family by Audrey. She already knows him as he takes all the council photos. He can see Sarah-Lou's resemblance to Audrey in her eyes and bone-structure. Has she ever thought about modelling? No she hasn't, say Martin and Gail at once. They want her to finish her education. And this must be your baby sister? He recovers quite well when he hears it's Sarah-Lou's daughter.
Lunchtime at the Rovers. Mike arrives with a bottle of perfume for Linda and apologises for forgetting. She's not impressed. While he gets a round in, Mike tells Mark to get Linda out of the factory before 5pm.
Cledwen is having a hard time getting the Platts to smile. He takes a couple of shots of them together, and then Audrey wants to have different combinations, girls, her and Gail, Gail and Martin. Martin says he needs to leave soon. We'll take that one first then. They sit as far apart as they can. They are forced to sit closer and closer, then Martin has to put his arm round Gail. But when it's suggested he gives her a great bit sloppy kiss he shouts That's it! and storms out.
Interval
The lads at the building site are listening to the race on the radio. Their horse wins! They're all dead excited, but Steve points out it's only £30 each. Why don't they put their winnings on another one. Pat comments that's why the bookies love Steve. He wants to get the winnings and share it out, so he tells Sam to pick them up. He has to say that he didn't put the money on. One of the lads accuses him of pocketing it so he has to confess and say that he'll pay up in a couple of days. Pat defends him throughout.
The Platts return home. Sarah-Lou goes to give Bethany a bath and Audrey asks Gail what caused Martin to behave like that. She can see there's something wrong. Gail blusters a bit about work and the baby and then finally admits that Martin was having an affair. She gives Audrey all the details, who it was, and that Martin was going to leave but she dumped him first. Audrey can't understand why Gail let him back. But Gail says she wants to handle this in her own way. Audrey is also hurt that Gail couldn't confide in her earlier. But she gives Gail a hug, promises not to mention it to anyone, and says that Gail mustn't blame herself.
Mark takes Mike's car to the garage and Tyrone is delighted. Jack misses a kid crossing the street and has to leap in front of a car with his lollipop. Vera hears the screech and goes to check that Jack is OK. During the conversation she finds the radio and confiscates it.
Mark and Linda are discussing figures in the Rovers. She doesn't know why they can't do it at the factory but Mark tries to take the opportunity to talk about them. Mike arrives in bolshie mode, laying down the law and chasing them back to work. Outside, Linda finds a silver sports car with a red ribbon She jumps in delighted. Mark looks ruefully at the small wrapped box he was going to give her.
Kathy
Tonight Coronation Street, provided as ever by ITV Television, sponsored by Cadbury's Flake
Written by: Stephen Bennett Directed by: Graham Wetherell
Tyrone is polishing Mike's executive Audi and singing "At the carwash" as he does so, the girlfriend, Maria, turns up for a trip out to a country park. Tyrone embellishes his story even further about his "family".
Gail and Sarah Lou are off out for the day and Audrey sees them off. Gail warns Audrey to way nothing.
Much of this episode was however taken up by the developments between Mark and Linda. They arrive at a pub car park in the latter's brand new Toyota MR2 (lovely piece of product placement for Toyota - pity that ITV did not feel they could buy British with an MGF). Mark is fed up by Mike showing off by buying the car as he cannot compete. Linda tells him to cheer up. Mark cannot understand Linda's attitude - where does he really stand with her? Linda does not expect him to compete - she does not want him to spoil it and she kisses him.
Tyrone and Maria are walking the dogs and in answer to her questions he tells her about the houses his family are supposed to own - in the process the web of lies becomes unsustainable as she has been to "Lloret del Mar".
Fred enters the Rovers and asks Ken about his book - apparently it is about to be published shortly. Fred refers to muckraking - Ken indicates that it is an accurately researched statement of events. Fred then buys Audrey a drink and invites Audrey to lunch - the beef is fresh it walked into the house itself. Eventually she is forced to accept. As they leave the Rovers Audrey spots Martin returning to home and forces him inside for a discussion. Fred shouts through the letter box wanting to know if the lunch is delayed or will be cancelled - how much veg should he prepare?
Back in the Rovers Geena is still trying to identify the new labourer, Sam Kingston. She never forgets a face and is sure she knows him. Finally she works out from a tattoo that he is a male stripper, who normally wears a silver mask - hence the problem with recognition. He needs to keep his other life quiet to prevent a ribbing from the rest of the builders.
Back at the country park Maria says that she would not care if Tyrone had nothing as she has already worked out that the stories are false.
Mark hands Linda his present - a fairly expensive looking watch - she calls it gorgeous and then tells him off for spending too much. Mark observes that the car is on the business and is a tax deduction - now that she is a sales rep. Linda is not convinced and observes that both have spent in relation to their income. Mark just feels he cannot do enough.
Martin sits down and Audrey provides a piece of her mind although she refuses to refer to Rebecca by name. Martin says that events in this house are none of her business. Audrey is not impressed by Martin's defence. Martin points out that he and Gail are not happy but they are planning to finish bringing up the children.
At the country park Tyrone admits that all the stories were made up and that is family are nothing really and he has never done anything. Maria still wants to go out with him - even though he has made a real pillock of himself. They kiss - all is well.
Mark and Linda walk into another pub (for a non-alcoholic drink) still arguing when they are interrupted by Craig Brennan who had last Mark in Goa. Craig needs somewhere to doss and Linda is regarded as "tasty" by Craig.
On the way back from the country park Tyrone, driving Mike Baldwin's car is stopped by the police. Tyrone panics and admits the car is not his and he driving within the speed limit. Maria explains that the car is owned by Mr Baldwin and that Tyrone works for Websters Garage and that she had asked to be taken on the test drive. The policeman returns - it all checks out and Tyrone has to produce all his papers on Monday morning. Maria observes it is better to tell the truth and Tyrone is grateful. The policeman tells him to look after Maria - she is worth her weight in gold.
Mike asks Ken about his book - Ken retorts that the only problem Mike will have with his first book is finishing reading it. Geena asks the returning Sam if he would like to do a gig in the Rovers - a ladies night - and he needs the money as he owes a lot to the rest of the builders. He has been stripping for about 12 months it appears. It seems that he must have a money problem - he is always skint!!
Mike is buying drinks for the lads and decides to take Linda of for a meal. Craig hopes he will be doing as well as Mike at his age!! Later Craig and Mark are at the latter's flat - Craig has sensed there is something wrong. They go and get a few drinks and catch up on old times.
Gail returns and Martin brings her up to date on Audrey's visit. Gail tells him off for being selfish. They continue to row (Gail's hair appears to include a television antenna sticking out in several directions - but maintained throughout the interchange). They row in whispers and then louder until the baby wakes. Gail sticks to her side of the bed, Martin sticks to his. Martin points out that it is not working and perhaps it would be better if he slept on the sofa. Eventually the episode closes with Martin on the sofa.
Nice counterpoint for Tyrone with Maria tonight - hopefully all this action will keep him on the straight and narrow!! I assume we are getting close to the Mark / Mike / Linda denouement - although how we get from where we are to the end is not very clear at present! Ken's book is presumably published before Christmas - a nice amount of free advertising it is getting.
See you again tomorrow night - I am covering Helen's update this week.
KRW
Helen is away and I volunteered. I had intended to do the update immediately but I have been watching Ross Kemp as an appalling lawyer (I don't think the man can act) and Helen Mirren being a rather good policewoman (I rather think she can act). As a result this update is running late.
Tonight events in Weatherfield come courtesy of Cadbury's Flake. As ever ITV Television own the original copyright about anything I might report.
Written by: Martin Allen Directed by: Graham Wetherell
We open with Martin clearing up his bedding. He is caught by Sarah Lou and he blames not being able to sleep due to his shifts - she immediately thinks that Bethany was to blame despite Martin's denials. Martin seeks to re-assure her and takes the baby and wakes her. SL remarks to Gail that she does not know what they would do without Martin. Later she is walking along the Street with Bethany and both Ken and Betty welcome the new resident. Less forgiving is Blanche who remains open mouthed when she hears Ken congratulating SL on being a good mother.
Mark is getting dressed for work whilst Craig eats breakfast, the latter envying the former's working environment if all the women are as attractive as Linda.
Geena is having morning tea with Natalie and broaches the idea of a ladies evening with Sam getting his clothes off. Natalie does not think much to the idea until Geena reveals that it will be Sam getting his kit off. Natalie does 180 degree about turn in no time at all. Natalie promises to keep mum on his identity.
Audrey gets a piece of Gail's mind for interfering in something she does not understand. A very frosty relationship exists between the two. Gail wants to keep them all together - whatever she has to do.
Linda is chasing up business on the phone - and prolongs a call to avoid talking to Mark. Eventually he asks again - what does she really think of him? He is always asking in the wrong place and at the wrong time. She starts another call to avoid the answer. Later she announces she is off to the Rovers for lunch. He wants to know what will happen once she has married Mike. Mark reckons they are both freaked out. She admits she likes him - but she cannot see into the future, she really wants to marry Mike.
Sarah has returned home and decides to start singing Martin's praises to Gail. Gail is hardly in agreement and after a few more positive comments from Sarah she feels forced to tell SL that he has been having an affair. Gail explains that Martin does not know what he wants and SL although knowing they were arguing had not realised it was so bad. Gail says they are still talking trying to save it. Whatever happens they will both be there for SL and Bethany.
Geena is advertising the Masked Python's appearance in the Rovers. Janice is attending - Blanche thinks it is disgusting. Even Betty may well be there. Toyah turns up with Anna Wilson - a mate from college - they will both be attending. Fred arrives and denies that he is the Masked Python - although he was a bodybuilder in his youth. Later Janice and Geena tries to wind Blanche up by suggesting that the stripper will be Fred in a thong.
Martin arrives home to be confronted by Sarah Lou. The latter is distinctly unhappy but no-one is admitting names. SL wants to hear the truth from Martin. She reckons it is all her fault for getting pregnant. Martin explains it all started before they knew about Bethany. Martin admits that he did love her but that she would not split up the family. SL again says it all comes back to her. Martin says that the fault is entirely his and she is not to blame. SL asks him to stay and not leave, she breaks down into tears. Martin re- iterates the line of taking one day at a time.
Mark and Craig are in the flat and the latter confesses that he is having an affair with Linda. Mark tells Craig the sordid story of his relationship since New Year. Mark likes working for Mike - but he also likes Linda but cannot get a straight answer out of her - and yet he suspects she has feelings for him. Craig says Mark is playing with fire - there is no future in it. There is only one choice - Mark must cut his losses and get as far away as possible, as soon as he can by himself - or it will blow up in his face.
Vinny and Pat are drinking with Sam at the Rovers. They decide to go elsewhere but Sam says he has a date. Spider walks past with a new short haircut and is accused of being about to join the armed forces. A few minutes later Spider is distinctly un-impressed when Toyah prefers the stripper to a celebration for the end of her exams which he arranges for Saturday. Fred comes into the Rovers and gets an earful from Blanche about the pork sausages she has eaten which he had prepared.
A number of storylines moved along this evening. I look forward to seeing a little more of Anna Wilson - she looked OK in the brief shot this evening. I trust Craig will disappear as rapidly as he appeared - not a great performance. And does Sam really have the wherewithal to be a male performer? We shall soon see what he is made of!! And just why are Spider and Toyah always at odds these days?
I will be back on Sunday - thanks to Helen for letting me squat on Monday!
KRW
Craig is off to Thailand. He can't understand how Mark can look his Dad in the face when all the time he's giving his girlfriend one (bit modernist for Corrie). He's got a good job, a fancy car, he could have any girl he wanted. (hooray Craig, bit of sense at last). But how can Mark forget her when he sees her every day?
The Platts are at breakfast. Gail wants to tell Martin that she told Sarah-Lou but he tells her angrily that he already knows. Gail defends herself by saying she was upset. But you were the one who wanted to keep it between us, and then you go and tell Audrey and Sarah-Lou. Why not take out an ad in the paper? Gail wants to send the kids to Audrey's tonight so they can talk. Maybe it would be better if they split up.
Spider is having toast in the café with Toyah. He's surprised that she'd want to see a stripper. It's sad. What about man watching women? That's sad too, (but said with a look that suggested otherwise). Vera enters full of beans. She's late because the Hortons have rung and invited her to stay at their place while they're away. She can have time with Our Little Tommy. Roy will need help but Toyah agrees to cover. You little belter!
Sarah-Lou is tired as Bethany was up twice in the night. Martin mentions tonight's talk. She begs him again not to leave. Candice's parents split up and Bethany doesn't even have a dad.
Vera enthuses to Jack about the Horton's offer. He's ordering a fried breakfast. When she protests, he says he'll need to keep his strength up for the holiday. Oh yeh, she says, getting sexy, get it down yer. He looks horrified. Throne enters and nicks a sausage. He's invited but will have to check with Jim.
At the pub, Janice asks Emily if she'll be seeing the stripper. She declines and sits down with Spider. She reminisces about how Annie Walker would react if she heard of such a thing. Spider agrees. He doesn't have a problem with nudity or naturism, but doesn't like the commercial sleaze of stripping. He's surprised that Toyah doesn't agree with him on this, they used to think so alike. Emily says that young people need their space, and Spider says ruefully they have plenty of that these days. (This is clearly setting something up, but it's the first sign we've had that all is not well here).
Mike and Linda are at the bar. He asks her why Mark's so moody. We see Mark back at the flat banging on again about how hard it is for him (oo-er missus! Oops, sorry!). Craig again says he should walk away and fast. Is this getting through Mark?
Vera is staying dreamily into the distance and ignores Roy's pleas for more chips. Tyrone has cleared it with Jim and has also set up for Maria to go if it's alright with V. Of course, but separate rooms. Jack overhears and suggest they invite Norris too. Oh yes, who will look after him?
Mark can't walk away from Linda, he's in love with her. But Craig points out that his Dad would never forgive him. He can't win, he should solve his problems by leaving them behind.
Interval
Vera is choosing bathing costumes in the B&B when Norris arrives. He tries to run upstairs for a bath, but she tells him of developments and that he'll have to do his own breakfast next week. Oh no, he's not happy with that. He pays for bed and breakfast, he'll have to deduct something. Anyway, he's been thinking of looking for somewhere else, probably dog-free. But you can't leave, you're one of the family, I treat you just like Our Jack. Yes, and that's another reason for going, mumbles Norris. Vera tries another tack. How long since you last had a holiday? Now you're asking. Angela always insisted on health farms, separate rooms of course. Separate health farms towards the finish(!) Vera invites him along. He'll have to check with Rita but the idea does appeal.
Mark has joined Mike and Linda in the Rovers. Mike gets a call on his mobile, so Mark just has time to invite Linda to the flat as they need to talk. He leaves soon after and Mike deduces woman trouble.
Vinnie didn't think Natalie was a female sexist chauvinist ladypig. Can he and the lads have some women strippers next week? No, but he might get a private showing if he catches her in the mood.
Martin finds the portrait photos on the kitchen table.
Jack hears about Norris and says he was only joking. She explains that she had to do something as he was about to leave. Anyway, here he is. He's asked Rita... but she put the block on, interrupts Jack hopefully. Oh no, she said the break would do her good (!)
Gail is looking at the photos now. Martin says the camera can lie, they're not really a happy family. We said we'd make the marriage work. That was til you told Audrey and Sarah-Lou, who by the way thinks the break-up is her fault. When will you be telling David? He'll find out soon enough if we split up.
Linda arrives at the flat in a strop. Craig leaves them to it and she can tell he knows. Mark says it won't be long before Mike finds out. He wants to tell him.
Does Martin know what he wants to do? Turn the clock back. Gail wants that too, but let's get practical. OK, would you want David to stay with you? Of course! Martin doesn't want to be a weekend Dad. Gail has promised Sarah-Lou she can go back to school, but without Martin she'll have to go back to work. Would he give any maintenance for David! Of course! Living apart, they'd both be short of money. It makes more sense to stay together, but it has to mean more than that. Can they make the marriage work? Martin doesn't know, he can only take it one day at a time. It's up to Gail to decide if that's enough.
Back at Mark's, he's telling Linda that he's tired of sneaking around. He won't carry on seeing her in secret and making a fool of his Dad. But if they told Mike, they'd both be kicked out and jobless. She wants to carry on, but thinks his going to Thailand is a good idea. A couple of weeks will clear his head. No, if he goes, he's not coming back. She has to choose: him or me.
Kathy Brown
