Sunday 2 July

Much drama this evening - France win with a golden goal. Oh sorry wrong update. Anyway the high drama of Coronation Street did not appear until much later than usual, after the football had finished. And a reminder - I will not be here for the next two weeks as I am on holiday. Graeme Selway will be covering next Sunday and Kathy has kindly volunteered to do an extra update the following week. All being well I should be back on 23 July.

Tonight's episode was brought to you by Cadbury's Marble and whilst it only needed one writer - David Lane - there were two directors listed - David Kester and Ian Bevitt, one dealing with events on the Street, the other in Blackpool. As ever ITV Television retain all copyright in the events described herein.

We open at Weatherfield Quays as Mike emerges in bathrobe for a drink rubbing his heart when he spots Mark's letter which he opens and then reads taking another drink. After a while Linda returns and Mike asks her what is going on - and she almost admits to the affair. Eventually she admits she knew Mark was leaving and manages to cover up the words she used. Mike is distraught at Mark's departure - he really loves him and neither can believe that Mark has gone. Linda later almost gives the game away again suggesting there are things Mike does not know, but at this point his pains get worse and she summons an ambulance.

Craig and Mark are completing their packing and both the flat phone and Mark's mobile ring - it is Mike trying to reach him. Craig switches the phone off and they depart.

Emily is coming in and locking her door when two ruffians (only one thug speaks and is listed in the credits) run down the stairs and finding the door locked depart via the back door. Emily wanders into the main room to find it totally vandalised, cakes spread everywhere, chocolate spread on the paintwork and pictures awry. She is stunned.

In the Rovers Toyah and Anna (Wilson - a rather attractive addition is she joining the regulars) are reflecting on the Masked Python and their summer occupations, Toyah is working on a radio station whilst Anna is working in a pub looking after the children. Janice suggests to Spider that he might like to perform now. Pat and Vinny also return and Janice reveals that Sam was the stripper. Emily comes into the Rovers to find Spider and ask for his company at home. The cakes and for a sale and the police will be around within an hour. Emily then remembers and finds that 312 from a sponsored walk has been taken as has her wedding photograph - the only picture she has.

The ambulance men believe it is a heart attack and they take Mike off to Weatherfield General - he has every chance of being all right.

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One2One phones abroad, P&O Stena line, Currys, MFI Sale, Disney videos, Virgin.net, Burger King, Malibu
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The minibus is loading for the trip to Blackpool. Norris is suggesting that Maria should wear a hat - Vera was obviously a sun worshipper at her age and look at her skin now. She refers to Norris working in a shop but he points out that it is far more stressful than that as he is at the cutting edge of the retail consumer interface with the added pressure of a 21st century postal and banking franchise. Vera observes she has nowhere to put a suitcase and could he open his mouth for a minute. Jack pulls Vera to one side. Has she cleared eight visitors with the Hortons. They then bicker as to who was supposed to let them know - it turns out that neither have done so.

Mike is in the hospital looking a lot better and trying to deny that he has had a heart attack. He smokes, he drinks and he needs to look after himself a little better. The doctor thinks Linda is his daughter and when apprised of her real relationship to mike gives him another disapproving look.

Blanche and Ken (where is Dreary?) visit Emily's which she is cleaning up and the former launches into a denunciation of the thieves who removed her pension money and Ken's laptop, along with the only text of his forthcoming publication - they needed the money for drugs observes Blanche. Spider walks in with the photograph and at this point they find out she has been burgled. Emily understands theft of money - she cannot understand the vandalism.

Linda is telling Mike that the alcohol and cigars have to go. Mike says she must find Mark and bring him back. Linda replies that she has tried but he has gone and the mobile is not being answered. Mike looks unhappy.

The minibus arrives in Blackpool and Vera and Jack have to go ahead with Gary as they have not let on as to the number of visitors. (The minibus is being driven by Steve - I did not realise Streetcars had one of these on their books and that he had a PSV licence!!) Steve is not happy - he has a hen party to pick up.

In the Kabin Ken is still complaining about his lost book - Blanche observes he will get more pleasure from writing it again than people will reading it, in anyone bothers. Anyway says Blanche he will get a new computer - will the post office re-imburse her lost pension - Ken will come up smelling of roses. Blanche continues in full flow - you can't tell a kid high on glue - she recommends extreme violence.

In the Rovers Pat and Vinny are drinking and the latter observes that he has seen Sam on the building site. Natalie wonders why Vinny was looking. Sam sneaks in and Natalie teases him that they did not get the full show and Geena suggests part payment. Natalie hands over the full 100 and Sam passes this on to Pat in payment of the debt. Sam has had a few moments in his time and he cannot reveal the secret of being a stripper.

Jack and Vera are presented with a list by Tommy Duckworth of the places he wants to see. All the local tourist sites - as Doreen Horton observes if you live in a place you never visit the local places! Gary has settled the twins in. It is ages before the Hortons have to catch their flight. Jack remembers that the motorway is blocked and the Hortons decide to depart immediately to ensure they catch their flight (presumably from Manchester) which gets them out of the way.

Spider has found a frame for the photograph. Emily is concerned for her safety - while it is a second burglary she has been really shook up this time. Rita and Spider have to leave and Emily insists she is fine, although Rita offers her a bed for the night. She locks the door behind them and returns to the living room and is then shaken when a newspaper is pushed through the door.

The holiday makers are moving in and Tyrone has got a double bed. Norris's bedroom has been converted into a bathroom. Maria offers her room but Norris ends up with the caravan!

Linda is back at the flat and finally Mark answers his mobile - he is Amsterdam seeing mates before going on to Thailand. She tells him that Mike has had a heart attack and Mark accuses her of joking. She tells him that it is no joke and we close with Mark having to face a difficult decision - to go on or to go back?

Too many sharp one liners to be recorded tonight - usually at the expense of Norris or from Blanche. No doubt there will be some more comedy from the former source over the next week.

I wonder if Mike will piece together Linda's comments while laying hospital. Probably not - she hardly said enough but it is not going to go smoothly is it?

I will be back in three weeks - hope the others can keep you informed until then!

K Richard Whitbread


Monday 3 July

Tonight's episode is set partly in Blackpool and partly in Weatherfield. In an effort to minimise confusion, I have kept the two locations separate for the update. As you can imagine, in the broadcast, the scenes were interspersed.

Weatherfield

Emily has spent the night downstairs on the sofa, nervous in the wake of the burglary.

Mark returns to Linda's flat having flown straight back from Amsterdam. Linda is angry that he left without waiting to hear her decision. She had been going to tell Mike about their affair. Instead, Mike learned of his son's departure from a note - and Linda blames Mark, and the way he left, for causing Mike's heart attack.

Ken regrets the loss of his book manuscript in the burglary. Rita suggests that he could appeal in the paper for the return of the disk - after all, it is the laptop that the thieves wanted; the manuscript was of no use to them.

Mike is relieved to see Mark at his bedside. He is anxious to know why his son disappeared so suddenly. Mark blames his 'itchy feet' and says that he didn't want his dad to talk him out of it. Under the circumstances, however, he will now remain as long as Mike needs him.

Blanche cons a drink out of Roy on the strength of being burgled. Over a long lunch, the factory girls speculate on the reason behind the absence of Mike, Linda and Mark. Evidently Dreary doesn't know what has happened either. Mark appears just as Janice and the rest are heading back to the factory. They are shocked at the news of Mike's heart attack.

Emily enquires whether Danny and Sally stock burglar alarms in the shop. They do not, and Sally says she will have to get a specialist firm for that sort of thing. Later, Danny suggests that they could do it, but Sally thinks it will look as if they are taking advantage of the recent events. Danny persuades her that Emily would be better off with them than picking someone at random from the phone book. Sally agrees, and they speak to Emily about it. She is grateful, and willingly accepts, saying she prefers dealing with someone she knows.

Mike is not looking forward to a life of diet sheets and restrictions. Linda seems determined to look after him and help him to get well. Mark gets the flat keys back from Rita. The regulars in the bar reminisce about the 'good old days' in the light of the recent burglaries. Spider offers to walk Emily home, but she refuses, saying she will not be treated like a victim. Nevertheless, she remains in the pub until very late that night. Betty talks to her about how she felt when she was mugged, and offers Emily a place to stay for a few days. Emily insists she is quite capable of looking after herself.

In the flat, Linda and Mark argue. She is upset that Mark left her when she was going to tell Mike about them. Mark says that if it was his going travelling that gave Mike a heart attack, how does she think Mike will react to the news that his son is having an affair with his fiancee? Mark is adamant: there is no way that they can risk hurting Mike any more. That means that they must not tell him, and must not take any more risks that could lead to Mike finding out. In short, it is over.

Blackpool

Norris moans about having to sleep in the caravan, but he doesn't dampen the holiday spirit of the rest of the gang. Gary takes the twins to the beach and builds sand castles. He tells them how much their mother would have enjoyed being with them. Norris tries out a driving game in the arcade, and gets made fun of by Tyrone and Maria, as he insists on driving slowly 'at a speed appropriate to the conditions.' Jack teaches Tommy the finer points of playing the fruit machines, even though Grandad Horton wouldn't approve. Vera drags Maria off to get their fortune told, so Tyrone joins Gary on the beach and takes the twins to get an ice cream.

Suddenly, a woman who has been sitting near Gary starts to scream. She has lost her son, Warren. The coastguard landrover screeches up, and we see the boy is in trouble in the strong waves in the sea. Gary races into the water, closely followed by the coastguard, and they rescue the boy. Gary accepts the woman's thanks and ducks out of the crowd and back to Tyrone and the twins. They are unaware of what happened, and Gary blames a large wave for his wet clothes.

Back at the Horton's house, Vera notices how wet Gary's clothes and shoes are. He gives an unconvincing explanation and rushes off to get the kids' dinner.

Writer: Phil Ford Directors: Ian Bevitt and David Kester
Episode 4850 - sponsored by Cadbury's Marble Brought to you by ITV.
Update written by Helen Johns.


Wednesday 5 July

At the B&B, Vera asks who's taken all the hot water. All hands point to Norris. He can't have showers like the rest of them, but has to have a bath. "The Romans would understand". Vera has her breakfast and looks at the paper while she waits for the immersion to heat more water. Oh look, a stranger has rescued a drowning child. The only thing known about him is that he has 2 kids of his own. That's you isn't it, she accuses Gary, remembering how soaked he was yesterday. Again, he plays it down. Jack says the paper calls it "an act of rare and unselfish heroism". There's talk of a reward. But Gary doesn't want to get involved with the paper, remembering what happened last time (with the burglar).

Mark and Linda are in the hospital. Mark is trying to ignore her, but she insists that he cheer himself up, or Mike will think he doesn't want to see him. When they arrive, Mike's packing, and insists on discharging himself, despite the nurse's advice. He's been told to get rest, and he can get that just as well at home.

A photographer arrives at the B&B, Vera has phoned the paper. His editor has authorised him to pay for a slap-up meal at the best restaurant in town. Mrs. Shipley, mother of the rescued boy, will also be there. The only catch is that there'll be a few photos. What's he got to lose, nice meal and she seems very grateful, if you get my drift. This confirms Gary's worst suspicions and he leaves. Vera comments that he's had a difficult time, what with Judy dying and all. Oh yes, tell me more, and the photographer sits down with Vera while she tells the whole story. (Oh Vera!).

Mike returns home and is ensconced on the sofa. He asks about the factory and Mark says he will take care of everything, don't worry. I'm not worried, says Mike 3 times in this short scene. He looks tired.

On the promenade, Vera finds a dance-hall that she and Jack used to go to when they were courting. She and Norris go in. Gary goes to the beach with the kids, leaving Tyrone and Maria free at last.

Roy asks Spider how Emily is. He thinks she's fine, it takes more than a couple of burglars to scare here off. Roy's been thinking of setting up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Spider is dead against it, but Roy will get Emily's opinion. Mark arrives in the café to harangue the factory girls. They ignore him and he leaves in frustration. Geena has been looking at him strangely throughout.

Linda gives Mike his lunch, cottage cheese salad. Fred has come a-visiting and says what he needs is a nice piece of fillet steak. Linda says he'll have this or starve. And if you have any scotch, I'll smash that decanter over your head! By she's a feisty wench, says Fred. He thinks he knows the cause of Mike's attack. He works just as hard, but doesn't have to come home to the demands of a young filly. But if that is the reason, Mike thinks it's worth it.

Vera and Norris are dancing in the ballroom, swept back to the old days with its elegance and refinement.

A knock wakes Emily in the dining-room. It's Roy, come to discuss Neighbourhood Watch. Emily confesses that she hasn't been sleeping well and then notices the time, she's supposed to be at the hospital. She becomes very flustered and Roy leaves.

Interval

Fred never thought that Mike would beat him to a heart attack. It must give him pause for thought. It has, but Mike has concluded that he'd rather go out in style. Fred asks if his affairs are in order: all his money goes to Ashley. Yes, Mark is the main beneficiary, but that will change once Mike marries. Fred thought that might not still be happening. Oh yes, this has reminded Mike that none of us are here forever, so get on with it, it's later than you think.

Linda meets Mark at the flat. He just wants to get away. Linda reminds him that he has to face his responsibilities now, his dad needs him. Mark can't stand the idea of her being tied to a sick old man. They kiss.

It's a tango in the ballroom, but this is too much for Vera, she goes for a cup of tea. A strange woman approaches Norris and compliments him on his technique. She's Celeste Pickersgill and is looking for a partner for the forthcoming contest. Vera returns, she's seen the poster too and suggests to Norris that they enter, before he has a chance to answer Celeste. She says adieu.

Mark and Linda are doing up their clothes. He can't talk to her and leaves.

At the Rovers, Roy is discussing his Neighbourhood Watch idea with Emma. She'll give him a contact at the station. Spider and Les pull his leg about this, but Roy turns on Spider and says he doesn't know how he can stand calmly at the bar when his aunt's having sleepless nights wondering if she's going to be broken into again.

Fred and Alma are also there and she hears the news. Danny says they don't need Neighbourhood Watch, they need one of his nearly bought security systems. Les says they're expensive, but Danny says they're not. And anyway, all the burglar needs to see is the box on the wall and they'll go somewhere else. Les gets a lightbulb. Standby for something stupid.

Everything is quiet at the B&B, til Vera and Norris burst in and tell everyone the news of the dance contest.

Spider calls on Emily. He notices the sofa and asks if she's been sleeping there. She protests that she's OK, but he finally gets the truth out of her. Her nerves are in shreds and she can't sleep because she's sure that the burglars will come back. He assures her they won't and insists on staying he night.

Linda meets Mark in the street. She wants him to go to the flat as Mike will be expecting him. Mark says it's too hard. It's hard for her too, every time she sees him she realises how much she loves him . Mark doesn't know whether to believe this. Meanwhile, Alma has come out of the Rovers and was going over to speak to them about Mike. I don't think she heard their conversation, but we see from her expression that she thinks there's something odd about their behaviour.

Kathy Brown


Friday 7 July
Sunday 9 July

Hi, and welcome to my first ever update on the goings-on down Weatherfield way. As you're probably aware, Richard's away for a couple of weeks and so I've volunteered to keep the chair warm (as it were). Just for the one week, mind - Kathy will be here next Sunday.

And so without further ado:

Roy and Hayley are busy organising their 'Homewatch' meeting. Emma's agreed to attend *and* she'll be in uniform, which is a relief to Roy, who says that it's an important statement to make. They call into the Rovers, asking if their poster can be displayed. A tad late, if you ask me - the meeting's this evening!

Blanche and Emily come in and Blanche orders some drinks, including a double for herself. I don't know if she actually put her own hand in her pocket, though - that would be a first, if she did! Emily spots Roy's poster and says that she'll certainly be going. Blanche invites herself along as Emily's chaperon since she reckons that Emily could do with the company.

"Cos you're a still a bit shaky, aren't you? I can see that, even though you're putting on a brave face."

Emily takes a deep breath and bites her tongue, whilst giving Blanche one of her famous glares.

Also in the pub are Linda and Alma. Linda has a run in with Alma as soon as the latter walks in. Linda's still miffed at having found Alma at the flat the other day and makes it clear that Mike's no longer any of her concern:

"...so you don't have to go running to his bedside every time he gets a flaming cold".

Alma hardly gets a chance to say anything before Blanche decides to intervene, much to Linda's irritation.

"What's it to do with you?" Linda barks, sternly.

"It's to do with me, cos I've got decent human feelings, same as she [Alma] has, but which apparently, you haven't."

"What is this? The old bags' union?" asks Linda, rattled by the sight of Alma, Blanche and Emily all staring at her.

"Yes, it is," confirms Blanche. "And we all stick together, so just you watch out."

Linda was only in the Rovers in the first place, because Mike had asked her to give him and Mark some time on their own to talk.

Mike's been doing a lot of thinking recently and tells Mark that if there's one thing that the heart scare has taught him, it's not to put things off. Therefore, he insists that Mark resumes his globetrotting.

"I want you to go to Amsterdam. I want you there by the weekend," says Mike, wagging his finger violently. "And to make sure you go, I'm buying your ticket."

I wonder what Linda will say about that! Mark looks bemused (probably thinking that he wanted to go a little further than Holland) and replies slowly:

"Well... I mean... yeah... if you say so."

But there's a condition. Mike wants Mark back in September - for best man duty.

Back in the Rovers, Danny's quiet pint is disturbed by Les, who feels that Danny should buy him a drink now that they're "in the same business". Danny thinks not and smugly points out to Les that dummy burglar alarm boxes won't be of much use in the dark.

Over in Blackpool, the wonderful Norris is refusing dinner so that he can keep trim for the dancing competition. Vera's worrying that he's taking it all far too seriously and her aching muscles suggest that she can't keep up with him.

Vera needs a rest and so Norris finds himself in the ballroom on his own. Well, he's on his own until he's hunted down by his admirer, Celeste Pickersgill, that is. [What a name!]

Celeste doesn't resist Norris's offer of a spin on the dance floor. Neither does she oppose his idea that she takes over as his partner in the competition itself. Norris is sure that Vera won't mind since she's "not one of nature's dancers".

As Norris ponders the idea, any lingering doubts rapidly disappear:

"No, she wouldn't mind at all," he says. "In fact, she'll probably come along to support us."

Hmm, and of course he's wrong. Very wrong. Vera is furious.

"It's disgusting," she says. "After the way we brought you here and put you up."

Still expecting a lift home are you, Norris? Eh?

Mind you, Vera's got other worries, too. She's bought a local paper and found a photo of Gary and Paula on the front page (slow news day, obviously). Gary's shocked and hurt as he had no idea that the picture had even been taken. Nor does he know how certain details about him and Judy got into the accompanying article. But he can guess.

"I've been stitched up," he says before asking Vera to look after the twins while he nips out.

He heads off to the pleasure beach where he finds Paula at work. She denies all knowledge and says that she doesn't know how the paper came by the info.

In fact, Paula has to drag the photographer along to the Hortons' before Gary will believe her. The photographer admits that it was Vera who'd given him the history lesson and Vera has to humbly apologise to R'Gareh.

Gary fears that Paula won't want to see him again. Vera tries to comfort him saying that he shouldn't worry if he's concerned about starting another relationship and that Judy "would want you to be happy".

Back at Weatherfield Quays, Linda's got a right face on her when Mike breaks the news about Mark leaving. Obviously she can't say why she dislikes the idea and she leaves Mike to assume that she's worried about him taking on too much without Mark around to help.

Over at the café, Roy and Haley have just finished setting up for the Homewatch meeting when Emily and Blanche walk in.

"We've brought Ken along," says Blanche. "Just so you won't think it's just the old fogeys."

Actually, there's quite a good turnout. Les appears with a carrier bag full of dummy burglar alarm boxes and immediately spots Danny:

"Oh, I see. Someone trying to cash in already."

But when Les singularly fails to interest anyone at all in his wares, he storms off in a huff, much to Roy's relief.

Emma and Curly are late. Mind you, they've got a very good reason - they've just apprehended two intruders in Curly's house. Fortunately (!) Les was passing on his way from the café and helps his "Sarge" and "Inspector Watts" to arrest them.

By the time they get to the café, most people have gone home but the good news that they bring with them more than makes up for Roy's non-meeting.

And that's about it. Kathy, I believe, will be here next week. Thanks for reading.

Episode written by: Peter Whalley. Directed by: David Kester and Ian Bevitt. Sponsored by: Cadbury's Marble.

Graeme Selway


Monday 10 July

Once again the action switches between Blackpool and Weatherfield. Again, I have kept the two locations separate for the update.

Weatherfield

Mike goes back to smoking cigars, much to Linda's disapproval, and also returns to work. Ken sent off his manuscript to the publisher. He persuades Rita that when it is on sale, the Kabin would be an ideal place to sell a local interest book. Curly told Emma that he was impressed by her bravery at catching the burglars. Emily has had her best night's sleep in ages. Roy feared that with the burglars under lock and key, everyone would become complacent about his HomeWatch scheme.

Mike confides to Mark that he is determined Linda should see him as youthful and full of life, If Linda starts to perceive him as an invalid she will look for a younger man.

Ken celebrates in the pub: he has been offered a job as a weekly columnist on the Weatherfield Gazette. Blanche is very scathing about it.

Curly is worried about the dangers in Emma's job and asks her to consider another career. She forcefully tells him she will do no such thing.

Linda goes to Mark's flat and begs him not to go away. Mark tells her that Mike is scared of losing her. he says that he feels terrible about constantly lying to his father, and it is definitely over between them. Linda tells Mark she is confused and doesn't know what she wants. She is not cold and calculating, she says. They finish up embracing and both crying.

Blackpool

Early in the morning, Maria sneaks into Tyrone's bed for a cuddle, but Vera comes in to put a stop to anything. Maria was frustrated that she and Tyrone could not get any time alone together. Norris went dancing with Celeste again - to Vera's disgust. She felt she had been dumped by Norris in favour of a floozy, all because of the competition. Gary agonized about contacting Paula again, since he felt disloyal to Judy. Vera and Jack both told him he was entitled to happiness - especially on holiday. Gary asked Paula if she wanted to go for the free meal that the paper had promised them, and she was happy to accept. Maria was keen to offer to baby-sit for Gary, since Jack and Vera had other plans. Tyrone looked a bit apprehensive when Maria hinted at her plans for the evening.

Gary and Paula go to a really expensive restaurant. Paula used to work there and delights in telling Gary the gossip about the staff. She is pleased to find out that Gary really wanted to see her again, not just get the free meal. The photographer turns up, but makes Gary feel uncomfortable. They leave and go for a walk on the beach instead, which ends with a tender kiss.

Maria wants to have sex with Tyrone. it will be her first time - and his too. He tells her that he has nothing against her personally, but he would rather wait until he is married. Maria is surprised and disappointed.

Writer: Mark Wadlow Directors: Ian Bevitt and David Kester Episode 4854 - sponsored by Cadbury's Marble Brought to you by ITV.

Update written by Helen Johns

Where's Deirdre? Not made a screen appearance for ages, though she has been mentioned a lot


Wednesday 12 July

Tyrone and Maria are having a spat over the marmalade, making barbed comments about what they fancy. Gary arrives for his toast and we see Norris on his way out in a very loud orange and yellow shirt. He tells them that at the moment, he and Celeste are only floating on the dance floor. He wants to glide. Gary admits to Vera that he'd like to see Paula again.

Linda and Mike are getting ready to go to the factory. He tells her he's fully rested. Mark arrives and while Mike is in another room, Linda arranges to go to the flat that night.

Tyrone tries to explain to Maria what he really meant to say, but Vera is organising them going out and Maria goes to get ready. Gary arrives and jokes about what they got up to, but Tyrone confesses that nothing happened and now Maria's upset with him. Gary looks uncomfortable at this conversation, but suggests that all Tyrone can really do is explain how he feels to Maria.

Linda meets Alma in the shop. They prickle at each other over Mike's health. Ken arrives and asks for suggestions for his column. Les and Toyah are also there. He's just found out she's working at the radio station and wants to know more about her job. He's after something but we don't know what yet.

On the sea-front, Tyrone and Gary are still discussing the relationship. Tyrone is convinced she's the girl for him, he can see them watching TV together when they're dead old, like thirty. Vera has found Paula and invites her to their barbecue this afternoon. Tyrone runs off to find Jack. Maria thought she's seen him at the bookies.

Spider, Toyah and Lee-Anne (where's she been?) are reminiscing about parties in the café. Spider had a great 18th, in a forest, with swimming in the lake, and lots of ...er....alcohol. They both had bad 18ths, so he offers to throw them a party now to make up for it.

Linda arrives at the flat. Mark voices the thoughts of the nation when he says they'll just go round and round the same old thing again. But Linda can't help herself, she has no control over her feelings for him. They kiss and fall on the sofa. But this time, Mark stops it. He can see that as long as they're together they won't be able to stop this from happening, so he's leaving for Amsterdam on Sunday.

Interval

In the ballroom, Norris is getting in a flap over missing a step. They start again and immediately fall over. Celeste blames Grace and Ernie Kershaw for sabotaging her shoes. The heel has come off and she's sprained her ankle.

Ken is in the Rovers, still wondering what to write about. Betty is no help. Mike tells Mark and Linda that business has never been so good. It's because of their help. Lee-Ann and Toyah are wondering who to invite to the party. Spider jokes that Toyah should invite people from the radio station, networking is what it's all about in the media. Why doesn't she ask her boss. Les gets another lightbulb (didn't he learn from the alarm fiasco?)

Vera chats to Paula about how hard it is to manage on your own. And Gary is a lovely fellah. Tyrone asks Maria to go with him to see a surprise. She reluctantly agrees.

Les hears Spider inviting Ken and Rita to the party. He tells him that he's ruining her big chance of success and from now on, he's taking over.

Paula leaves and Vera suggests Gary takes her home. Norris returns and tells Vera the tale of the sabotaged shoe. She's genuinely sympathetic to Celeste, but won't return as Norris's partner.

Mark is getting soppy about his Dad at the Baldwin family dinner. Mike starts spluttering and they panic. He insists it's just indigestion and has another slurp of wine.

Tyrone has taken Maria to the top of Blackpool Tower. She's cold so he gives her his jacket. He wants to explain his feelings. He never saw his Dad much and there was always a strange man at breakfast, who was never there at teatime. He has plans to buy his own garage and have a great life. He wants Maria to share that life. He asks her to look in his jacket pocket and she brings out a box with 2 rings in. They fit together and there's one for each of them. Jack lent him the money from his winnings. What does this mean? He wants them to be engaged.

Kathy Brown


Friday 14 July
Sunday 16 July

Back home, Tyrone asks Maria if she's told her Dad about the engagement. She hasn't and he's glad. He's been talking to Jack and he has to ask her Dad for permission, get down on one knee and get his blessing for the marriage. Maria thinks this is very old-fashioned and wonders if Jack is having him on.

Mark has decided to stay, but how can he tell Mike? He asks Linda again to confirm what the doctors said. He can't have any physical or emotional shocks. Mark thinks they would have told Mike, but Linda explains that this could induce another attack, so they decided not to. Mike arrives and they tell him Mark is now staying because Craig has got a bar job in Amsterdam. Mark prefers his job here, so will wait a few weeks longer. Mike pushes him and gets him to commit to leaving by 1st August.

Lee-Ann is talking to Toyah at the bar and teases her about Spider's age. Les is with Dennis from the social and tells him he ought to talk to Pat about getting a job on the building site. He sees Toyah and asks if her boss has given him a job yet. Vera is showing Eileen her photos and telling her all about Tyrone and Gary. Janice joins them and they quiz Gary when he arrives. He gets a bit upset at their teasing and says he thought by now Vera would have realised he likes to keep his private life private.

Mark still thinks that Mike should be told the truth about his condition. Linda says if they told him to take it easy, he'd do the exact opposite. They did all the tests and the results were worse than expected. Why don't they do a bypass operation? Too risky, he could die on the table. Mark looks distraught. Linda asks him which he'd prefer: to live his last days doing what he wanted, or spend 6 months worrying that he's going to die soon. They should do all they can to make him happy and be grateful they've got the chance.

Now I think that Linda is making this up as a ruse to keep Mark there. How is she going to explain Mike not dying???

Interval

Spider arrives at the bar and Lee-Ann tells him that she and Toyah used to go clubbing all the time. She's no fun now. Spider suggests she's got other things on her mind, a home and career. She's grown up, maybe Lee-Ann should too.

Maria's Dad, Mr. Sutherland, arrives at the B&B, wondering why he's been summoned. Tyrone is very smart in a shirt and tie and starts to stammer as he gets the inquisition. He blurts out that he wants to marry Maria. He's given her a friendship ring and now he wants to get a proper engagement one. Can we get betrothed? Only if you're aristocracy, says Mr. Sutherland. Tyrone continues: he needs his agreement. What do you want, should I fill in a from? Mr. Sutherland is clearly astonished that a young lad would speak to him like this in this day and age, but Tyrone convinces him that he's deadly serious.

Spider and Toyah meet at the bar. She's been sitting with her parents and he's been with Emily. She thinks Spider is upset over Duncan stirring things at the party and says she knows Spider does the best for everyone. There's a flicker of affection there but it's clear they don't enjoy each other's company any more.

Janice is sitting with Les and Dennis. She's had a phone call from her mum, who fell downstairs and broke her ankle. She wants to go and spend a couple of weeks there looking after her when she comes out of hospital. Would Les be able to manage?

Tyrone has made tea and the negotiations continue. Marriage is an important step, it's a merging of dynasties. Most people don't bother these days but Mr. Sutherland can see that Tyrone is a traditionalist. Tyrone has to confess that his family don't have much, so Mr. Sutherland thinks he just wants to get his hands on the kennels. Maria will bring a lot to the marriage: what can Tyrone offer? He wants to know what he's worth and if he doesn't like it, the engagement is off!

Gary apologies to Vera. She admits she was in the wrong, but had had such a good time on holiday, she wanted to share it with everyone. She takes Norris off for dinner and Jim asks what news Gary has. He doesn't want to discuss it in the Rovers. Dennis talks to Pat, who agrees to see him in the morning.

Linda and Mike are still discussing Mike's condition. He hopes the diagnosis is wrong. Lee-Ann looks at them suspiciously while they talk in a booth.

Tyrone asks Norris about dynasties. He explains they gather wealth and influence, like the Windsors. Who? Of course, Vera knows who they are and tells him they're the current Royal Family. Would someone from a dynasty marry a poor lad? Oh no, marriage is a very important tool in the furtherance of dynastic ambition. Tyrone looks blank. Norris continues: the leader of a dynasty is always looking to the future, and you know what that means. Blood and money.

Jim is in Gary's taxi, so can now hear the full story. His two pennorth is that Gary should call Paula. Gary says she'll be in the park now. Only because she's fed up of waiting for you to phone. But Gary is concerned that it's only a year since Judy died. Perhaps if Paula called him.... But Jim thinks she might be a traditionalist and is therefore waiting for Gary. What about Gwen? There surely can't be another like her. Catch yourself on.

Eileen is back in the Rovers after doing a half day's work and finds Ken and Emily still there. They're discussing his new column. She says he needs to spice it up a bit. What does Mike think? Cue some Ken/Mike bitching. Ken might write about heart attacks. Mike asks who's going to read it: people with no money, no ambition, and no education. People who live in the same road all their lives: oh just like you!

Mark is at the bar and calls Mike over to his drink. He thinks he shouldn't indulge in this sort of stuff any more, it's bad for him. Mike advises him to stay away from Lee-Ann. He should get away now. He's spoken to the doctors and Mark is free to go away as far as he wants for as long as he wants.

Kathy Brown


Monday 17 July

Small announcement and apology: I have decided that I need a break from doing these updates, at least temporarily. I will therefore make Monday 31st July the last Monday update I write, for at least the whole of August and September. I appeal to anyone who would be able and willing to volunteer, to step in and keep the updates going. I appreciate the efforts made by the rest of the team, and by those occasionals who fill in during holidays and so on. If someone would please help out, I know that the updates mean a lot to people who are unable to see the show for whatever reason. (I know that lots of people watch the shows, read the updates and look at the Visual Updates as well - there's dedication!) Seriously folks, I'm knackered, and there is a lot going on in other areas of my life at the moment. So there you are, I'm sorry, and thanks in advance to the replacement(s). On with the events in tonight's programme.

Cafe: Ken is trying to write his newspaper column, but finding it hard to come up with ideas. Jim cannot provide any suggestions - but would like it to have a cheerful tone. Gary requests the column should be about access to buildings and shops for parents with double buggies. A worthy topic, but Ken does not seem keen to start a crusade.

Coronation Street: As Audrey opens the salon for the business of the day, she cannot fail to notice there is a motor home parked just across the street. (And we're not talking a Winnebago here folks, but something a lot more rough and ready) Out of which gets Denis (Les's mate). Audrey approaches him and tells him that his home is lowering the tone of the neighbourhood. He tells her he doesn't really care, 'cos it's handy for him to get to work on the building site. Ken passes by at that moment, and Audrey grumbles to him about Denis's rudeness, then turns it into a general rant about everything. For instance, she says, why do we need a health centre here - it will just encourage folk to feel poorly. Ken indulges her as she continues. The health centre, Audrey announces to him, is to be named after Terry Randall - and all he ever did was sit on the council with his friends and they would all vote for each other's ideas. Ken suddenly has found the inspiration he was after! (Why do I think that Audrey is going to regret opening her mouth?)

Streetcars: Eileen reminisces (hilariously) to Gary about her holiday romances, and opines that they should finish when the holiday does. Gary ruefully remarks that his hardly got going. The business is really quiet and Vik sends Gary out to clean the car.

Underworld: Mike is cross when he finds out that there was a mistake in an order which was sent to a customer. He has a go at Mark for not keeping him informed. Linda intervenes to smooth things over and Mark makes himself scarce. Mike remarks to Linda how edgy Mark seems to be at the moment. He also reassures her that he isn't on his death bed and can run the business as well as ever.

Garage: Tyrone asks Jim's advice about where to save some money. Confused by Jim's answer, he turns to Gary, who suggests the Post Office.

Cafe: Ken is furiously writing, and tells Emily that he has to hand in his article by 2 o'clock. She wonders why he isn't working at home, and on being told that it is because of Blanche, Emily makes herself scarce; she doesn't want another talkative old woman hoding Ken up. Spider drops in to see Toyah to tell her his news. He has been recommended for promotion to team supervisor. Toyah says she is pleased for him, but in a tone of voice that suggests the complete opposite.

Street: Norris spies Gary apparently daydreaming, and tells him that it is no good wishing he were back in Blackpool. Gary is galvanised into action and tells Eileen not to radio him with any jobs for a while, as he has 'something to do'.

Rovers: Mike sends Linda over to talk to Janice so that he can talk to Mark. He reassures his son that he is not about to conk out as soon as Mark has gone - rather, Mike intends to live to be 100. Mark looks upset. Les asks Denis if he wants to be a lodger in their spare room. Denis is willing, although Les says he will have to ask Janice first.

Blackpool: After a scene-setting long-shot of the seafront at Blackpool, Gary's car pulls up outside a house. He knocks the door and Paula answers. She immediately looks nervous and says that he has not arrived at a convenient time. Gary is non-plussed, until a man appears behind Paula demanding to know who it is. The man recognises Gary from the story in the paper, and warns Gary to stay away from Paula. Lewis, for that is the name of Paula's boyfriend, then thrusts Gary's bunch of flowers back at him and shoves Paula back inside the house. One gets the distinct impression that he is about to rough her up a bit once inside.

Break:
Snacks; toothpaste; chocolate; brake pads; toilet cleaner, movie; ham.

Blackpool: Lewis comes flying back out of the house demanding to know what Gary is doing there anyway. Paula becomes increasingly upset as the two men square up to each other. Gary loses his temper and a fight breaks out. They fall to the ground brawling, but from what little we see of it, Gary seems to be dominating.

Kabin: Tyrone asks Rita about setting up a saving account. She advises him which type to choose and gives him a form to fill in. Norris asks why he is saving, but Tyrone isn't telling.

Blackpool: The police are in attendance, and treating Lewis's cuts and bruises. Gary is told he must go down to the station to sort it out.

B&B: Tyrone is at home alone when Maria and her father, Eric, call to see him. Eric surmises that Jack and Vera must trust him. He proceeds to ask Tyrone about his assets again, but isn't very impressed by Tyrone's intention to open a Post Office account. Eric proposes that Tyrone can have Maria's hand in marriage, in return for his dog, Monica. Tyrone thinks hard about this, then agrees grudgingly to give up Monica. Eric laughs and says that Tyrone must have got it bad, so he can keep Monica, and marry Maria. Eric leaves, and Maria tells Tyrone she is impressed that he loves her enough to give up Monica.

Streetcars: Eileen can't contact Gary and they have lots of jobs waiting. Vikram mutters about sacking unreliable drivers.

Blackpool: Gary returns to his car, which he had to leave at Paula's. He immediately contacts Eileen to ask her to get Emily to fetch the children and look after them. By this time Paula has come outside. Lewis has been kept in for observation (hospital I assume) so she wants to explain to gary. He does not want to listen, having got a police caution and being in danger of losing his job. She says that she has known Lewis for years, and it has been off and on. It was off before, but then after Gary didn't phone or write, well ..... Gary isn't impressed at being held to blame. Paula says she is sorry and looks miserable. Gary gets confirmation from Eileen that Emily is minding the kids, then sets off to go home.

Rovers: Spider and Toyah celebrate his promotion - well, Spider does, Toyah just sort of stands there. Janice is most impressed by it. Janice warns Toyah that she is going away for a couple of weeks to her mother's. Les asks Janice if Denis can move in; she says No Way. Janice goes home and leaves Les to explain to Denis. Which he does, by saying that that van is Denis's independence, and Les couldn't bring himself to lock up a free man by forcing him into a house.

Spider wants to plan for the future and thinks they should consider getting a mortgage on a place together. Toyah looks shocked and protests that they are fine as they are. Spider tenderly acknowledges that things have been a bit difficult between them lately. He is convinced that something to look forward to is just what they need.

Mike wants to plan some holidays for this year and next. Mark tells Linda (out of Mike's hearing) that they cannot let Mike go on like this. Linda says she doesn't want to be the one to tell Mike he will soon be dead, so what can they do?

Ken is pleased to have completed his article by the deadline. Jim asks what he eventually wrote about. Ken says he had a go about the way councillors crave immortality, and try to acheive it by sticking their own names on buildings and things.

Emily's house: Gary finally arrives to collect the children. Emily can see he has had a hard day. He regrets that he had fooled himself into thinking things were getting better. He says it was a hard slog getting over Judy, but eventually he had hoped ... but no, he will never be as lucky again. Emily cannot find any words to comfort him when he says he knows there is nobody out there for him, she can only watch sadly as he lifts up his children. Credits.

Writer: Peter Whalley Director: Brian Mills Episode Episode 4858 - sponsored by Cadbury's Wispa Bite Brought to you by ITV.
Update written by Helen Johns.

Oh! and how _do_ you spell Winnebago, actually?


Wednesday 19 July

Mark arrives to collect Mike for work, but talks to Linda while Mike's in the shower. He's finding it hard to handle listening to Mike talk about his future. What if he doesn't have the chance to do something he's always wanted, maybe see the Pyramids? Linda says Mike only lives for work. But Mark thinks they've kept too many secrets and should be honest in this. She regrets telling him as she can see how much distress he's in and he takes her hand for comfort. She says that Mike deserves the best they can give him and together they can make the rest of his life as happy as it can be.

Vera is clearing the breakfast dishes when a beaming Tyrone and Maria burst through the door. They've got something to tell her: they're engaged. She's delighted and hugs Maria, then something occurs to her and she asks if Maria's in trouble. Certainly not! Tyrone says they're not rushing into anything as he can't afford a ring yet. She says he'll have to tell his mother.

Gary is in the café, moaning to Jim about his troubles. He suggests bringing a few cans over later, but Gary turns him down and leaves. Ken arrives and Jim says he agrees whole-heartedly with his article against councillor fat cats.

An excited Audrey arrives in the Post Office to tell Rita and Alma that the council had an emergency meeting last night, where it was decided to name the Health Centre after Alf. Oh oh! They agree that no-one deserved it more, and Audrey, clearly moved, wipes a tear from her eye.

Leanne talks to Mark at the bar. She wonders why he hasn't left to go round the world long ago, she would in his place. He tells her that there's no reason she shouldn't do it if she wants to. She could work in a bar or do waitressing just as easily no matter where she went. Mike arrives, bored with not doing proper work and drinking mineral water. Deirdre is also at the bar and challenges him for not being at his hospital appointment. He tries to fob it off but Mark insists on driving him,

Vik moans to Eileen about Gary going up and off to Blackpool without a by-your-leave. He still hasn't had an explanation and is going to give Gary a piece of his mind.

The consultation over, Mike goes to make a phone call which means Mark can have a chat to the doctor. What can he do to help? He should encourage Mike to improve his diet and stop smoking. But shouldn't he rather be enjoying his last days? The doctor says that Mike's had a wake-up call but has a good 20 years in him yet. Is he sure, has he told Linda? The doctor assures Mark that all the tests point to this conclusion. Mark looks bemused, as well he might.

Interval

Tyron is down in the dumps in the café. He's told his mam and she hardly spoke to him. Vera tries to make excuses for her. She tells Tyrone that she and Jack think the world of him. Why don't they have an engagement party? He's immediately all bouncy again, perhaps his mum would come to that?

Linda tells Mark how happy Mike will be when he hears of her latest deal. But Mark is not happy. He tells Linda he's spoken to the doctor and now knows the truth. In a superb recovery, Linda says the doctor told him that because she'd asked him to keep the secret. He didn't know Mark knew, so gave him the official line. Mark doesn't accept this and tells her she's sick.

Rita shows Audrey Ken's article.

Linda now admits she was lying but didn't know what else to do to stop Mark from leaving. She claims she acted this way because she loves them both. But Mark says she couldn't as she lies to them all the time. She's a manipulative little bitch. He's been going through hell thinking his dad was dying. Does she get some perverted pleasure from bedding a father and son? Or maybe it's him, that he only wanted her because she was his dad's. Anyway, it ends now, he's going to tell Mike. She blocks him in the door and says he'll have to make her let him through. Mark has started to cotton on to the way she thinks and says she only wants him to hit her so she can go running to Mike. Maybe I'll tell him you raped me. Mark is clearly not yet thinking like Linda, because this shocks him. But he recovers and pushes past her. He may lose everything, and Mike may never speak to him again, but what will he do to her? He gets into the car and she runs after him as he drives away.

She tries to get in Gary's taxi but he says he's finished for the day and directs her to the Street cars office. Vikram has overheard this and challenges Gary for finishing early. He says he's cleared it with Eileen as he has to get the kids from school. Then he apologises for the other day, very nicely. Vikram won't accept this, Gary doesn't treat him as the boss. Gary says a proper boss would keep the rollicking for another time, he's just told him he has to pick up his children. Vik says he doesn't like his attitude and Gary is fired.

Audrey has moved to the Rovers with the paper. She's waiting for Ken and challenges him as soon as he enters. She lays into him for his comments about Alf and says that if he was going to kick him in the guts he should have had the decency to do it when he was alive. She flounces out with Alma in tow. Ken is dumbfounded, as he'd written about Terry what's-his-name and not Alf at all.

Mike is shuffling a salad round on his plate when Mark arrives. He tries to tell Mike but he won't stop talking. Has he been measured for his wedding suit? Mark manages to make a start and refers to the chat they had earlier about ambitions. Oh yes, Mike's thought about that and he's now got an answer. He's really going to push the boat out for the wedding. He can't remember when he felt happier. Now what did Mark have to tell him? Mark is on the verge of tears but Mike doesn't seem to notice anything strange. I need to tell you that.....I'll miss you. I'm leaving tonight. Mike can't understand Mark's inability to make a decision, but is glad that's he finally going. They hug, just as Linda arrives. Fortunately, she keeps quiet as the men says their goodbyes and Mark leaves.

Alma tries to comfort Audrey that anyone who knew Alf would disregard the paper's comments. Audrey is missing Alf as it's nearly her birthday and he always made a fuss, while pretending to forget all about it.

Next morning, Linda is waiting outside the flat as the taxi arrives. She thanks Mark for not telling and he leaves.

Kathy Brown


Friday 21 July
Sunday 23 July

I'm pleased to report a return to active updating service! Thanks to the stand-ins during my absence - I promise I will get around to reading them although I have seen the episodes as the video did work this time around!

There were a couple of special moments I noticed - most particularly Tyrone proposing and later when he was prepared to part with Monica for Maria. Wonderful from both Tyrone - although is any 17 (?) year old really that naive.

Also the scriptwriters seem to have finally sorted out R'Toyota's age and achievements - were we meant to believe she has achieved 3 'A' levels some weeks before the results come out?

Anyway to tonight in Weatherfield, as ever thanks to ITV who retain all copyright and to Cadbury's Flake (hint to Cadbury's - I am visiting Cadbury World next month and would welcome more than the usual number of free samples for all these credits you keep getting)!!

Written by Martin Allen Directed by Colin Cant

Action opens chez Battersby with Dennis Stringer asleep in the chair. Les indicates he is planning to write to the Gazette over Audreh's threats to have Dennis's missing caravan removed, as it has not reappeared in the night.

Over at Audreh's, Maxine arrives with flowers and birthday wishes. Max invites Audrey to the Rovers for a drink but it takes some persuasion from Alma who offers to cook Sunday lunch. Audrey eventually gives in when she hears Fred will be waiting and they then have to persuade her to get changed.

A redhead, Paula Shipley, knocks on Gary's door. She has come from Blackpool to apologise and she wants 5 minutes to tell her side of the story. He lets her in. Gary recaps events for those who have been on holiday. She gives him the full story - it is over with the boyfriend - and she wants to get together with Gary. He is not convinced and she leaves. Later Vera finds Paula at the bus stop and Vera takes her to the Rovers for a chat - Vera thinks she can help.

Gail, Sarah (I note the credits refer only to Sarah - the Lou appears to have vanished), David and presumably a dummy Britney are taking a taxi around to Audrey's having received the all clear. Gail is spotted by Les who asks after Audrey's whereabouts. Gail denies precise knowledge and slams the door in his face.

Max and Audreh arrive at the Rovers and are immediately accosted by Les and Dennis. Audrey explains how long it takes for the council to do anything and she denies all knowledge. She suggests it was either stolen or so infested with vermin that it walked off by itself. Dennis contacts the police and has to go in and report the van stolen. Whilst he is away Les will arrange a barbecue and tells Dennis that he can stay until Janice returns - several weeks, maybe months!!

At Audrey's food production and decoration are in full flow. David has a poster for the 58th birthday but Gail and Alma explain that you cannot announce a lady's age to the public. Ken arrives with the old school friend - Gladys - took some tracking down but it been done.

At the Rovers Audrey is upset no-one has turned up for the birthday drink (well she is only 58) so Max calls a cab after phoning home to report that they are returning. On the other side of the Rovers Vera has heard the story from Paula - she will have a word with Gary and summons Norris to look after Paula until she returns. If Vera is helping Norris reckons Paula will need a brandy.

Vera effectively tells Gary not to be so silly and give the girl a fair hearing. He agrees to go the Rovers.

Audrey arrives back complaining to Maxine about the waste of time and is therefore totally surprised as half the cast and numerous extras shout "Happy Birthday". She blows out the candles on the cake in one go and we have a rendition of "Happy Birthday". Ken tries to apologise for his Gazette article and introduces Gladys - Audrey attended her wedding some 40 years ago - and Lama admits to passing on the information, according to Dreary it took most of the preceding day for Ken to find Gladys.

Norris is telling Paula about the trams when Gary arrives and he departs to the party. Gary is prepared to talk. They return to Gary's house and she explains the ex-boyfriend had turned up and she lied about the article in the paper because she thought Gary was not going to contact her, so she had thought about resuming the relationship with the ex- boyfriend, but in the light of events that relationship was all over now. Gary admits he should have phoned before turning up.

The barbecue is proceeding at high volume at the Battersbys. Jim is cooking so he is. Tyrone and Pat have joined the proceedings but Emily would like the volume reduced as she is trying to work. Requests for a volume reduction are ignored. Spider, Toyah and Anna (Wilson) arrive to observe. Another request from Emily for a volume reduction via Geoffrey achieves a change in music - Les plays a high volume Alleluia chorus. (During this Toyah observes to Anna that she is not sure which is more amusing - Les acting 30 years younger than his age or Spider acting 30 years more than his age).

At the party Fred tells Ashley he should be networking and this sets Max to thinking (a somewhat dangerous process). Later in the day Max asks Ash how many friends they have - the answer is currently nil in the light of the last dinner party at Spider's, so Max decides that they need to develop a circle of friends.

Audrey and Gladys sit down to catch up on old times. Gladys has enjoyed an uneventful life, retired with her long term, ex-long distance lorry driver husband with 3 children and 7 grandchildren. Audrey by contrast has lived in the glare of a tv soap and has had an exciting time. As ever Audrey's tongue runs away with itself. She reveals she was left comfortably (first I've heard of that - the life policy expired I thought) and she is now a councillor. Audrey remembers that Gladys' husband had a thing for her at school and perhaps in different circumstances she would have had a less eventful life. Gladys takes umbrage and says that all her family turned up for her 60th birthday - and they were in the same class at school. (Martin is working, Nick and Stephen are in Canada and their absences have been noted). David overhears and asks if his Nan is also 60 - Gladys confirms that is right and the secret is out. (Would Gail have ever got it wrong?).

We return to Gary and Paula where the discussion has reached a conclusion. They both want to see each other - but they live 70 miles apart. They will see each other at weekends in Coronation Street and as Gary gets up to see her out they smile at each other, put arms around each other and kiss, both have big smiles on their faces.

Mark went last week - can it be long before Spider and Gary are on their way. My wife observed on Friday evening that Geoffrey is no longer the man Toyah lusted after - she wanted the Green action lad not the mortgage wielding office boy. He has changed and she is one of the few women who did not want her man to change!!

Would a supermarket manager and a policewoman be happy with such a small place and a small backyard - I wonder how many others sense that this just does not fit? OTOH I do not want to see them depart but sense a lack of decent storylines for the present. How about them buying Natalie's house?

And tonight - not a bad episode a nice mix between the absurd comedy of Les and Des and the typical inability of Audrey to contain her mouth, whilst the story bringing Paula and Gary together has been poor (talk about the path of true love never running smoothly) I think both have coped well with the low quality!

See you all again next week

K Richard Whitbread


Monday 24 July

Les's House: Dennis has a hangover, which is not improved by Les offering him cold sausages which have been on the barbecue all night. Les presses him for information about the Hell's Angels (Weatherfield Chapter) to which Dennis used to belong. Of course, Dennis cannot reveal anything of the secret initiation rite -except that it was painful. Les fantasises about being in the Hell's Angels himself, prompting Dennis's admission that losing his van last week was as nothing compared with losing his 'Hog'; when that bike went, it was like a suspension strut going straight through his heart. The reverie is rudely interrupted by Pat, banging on the door to say that Dennis is half an hour late for work.

Coronation Street: Ashley is tired, since Maxine kept him awake half the night by writing notes in bed. It turns out she has thought about what Fred said about having friends, and has written a list of 'socially acceptable' potential friends.

Cafe: Tyrone is very much looking forward to his engagement party, but at the same time he is worried about Monica - heavily pregnant and home alone. Vera assures Tyrone that the dog was fine when she left. Gary thanks Vera for sorting out the situation with Paula. Spider is nervous about his promotion interview. Toyah unenthusiastically wishes him good luck.

Kabin: Norris feels unwell, though despite Rita saying she could cope, he insisted on remaining at work. Rita asked Ken how to go about tracing her relatives. He advised her to try the local library for books about the subject. He had come in for the latest edition of the Gazette, to see if there were any letters in response to his column. To his surprise there were loads, all of them in agreement that the Health Centre should not be named after Alf Roberts. Ken was a little concerned about how Audrey would react.

Interview room: Spider is quizzed about his environmental beliefs - and whether there might be a conflict of interest. He was asked to imagine a scenario in which activists engaged in a protest (living up trees, for instance) were also claiming benefits. They were not available for work and therefore inelegible. Would he take action? Spider admitted that after thorough investigation, should the person in question be not available for work, and therefore wrongfully claiming benefit, then yes, he would withdraw their benefit.

Street: Dennis is amazed when Les turns up with some 'treasure' they have dredged up from the canal. It is a motorbike - covered in mud and weed - but Les has a vision: They Can Rebuild Her!

Kabin: Rita eventually persuades Norris to go home and tuck himself up in bed with something warm.

B&B: Tyrone and Vera can't find Monica. They search the house and eventually find her. Lying on Norris's bed. Nursing five gorgeous puppies.

Break

Les's: Dennis and Les begin to clean off their motorbike - in Les's front room! Les offers Dennis a deal: if they both restore the bike, and Dennis gets back into the Chapter, will he put Les up for membership as well?

B&B: Tyrone is overcome with joy; first he gets engaged and now he has a family as well! Vera marvels and the lovely puppies. Norris comes home, and is horrified when he comprehends what has taken place on his grandmother's bedspread. Tyrone and Vera are adamant that the nursing mother cannot be moved. Norris finds the whole thing repugnant and says he has to leave.

Toyah and Spider's: Spider returns with the news that he has got a second interview, and has bought a bottle of wine to celebrate. He sees it as the beginning of a new life for them, and a move away from the cramped bedsit. Toyah protests that they have been happy where they are, but Spider imagines them in a house with a couple of spare rooms. She could have one to study in. In a few years time, they could find another use for the spare room ...... Toyah interrupts him and reminds him that she is 18, and doesn't want to be tied down.

Rovers: Ken has managed to avoid Audrey all day, and when they do come face to face she leaves him in no doubt of her feelings. She is furious, not only about the article, but also for bringing Gladys to ruin her party. Ken says he is sorry, and Deirdre says that it isn't Ken's fault that Audrey lies about her age. Maxine spies Curly and Emma, people on her 'desirable friends' list. She makes Ashley follow her and joins them. The conversation is a little stilted. Rita is most surprised when Norris appears. He relates the circumstances over a large brandy while Rita tries to hide her amusement.

Les's: Dennis cleans the bike while Les fantasises about riding along with the wind in his hair and a leggy girl in leathers on the seat behind him. Suddenly, Dennis realises just what they have got: a Vincent HRD Series C Black Shadow. When it was built in the 50s it was capable of 150mph, ad a fully restored one would now fetch up to £9,000. Les is ecstatic.

Rovers: Rita takes pity on Norris and says he can stay the night on her sofa.

Bedsit: After a strained meal, Spider tries to explain that he wants the job to get the money to look after Toyah and give them a better life. Toyah says she doesn't want to be supported by him financially, though that isn't the real problem. She remembers that when she first met him he was odd, but exciting and inspiring, and she fell in love with him. Spider listens in silence as she sadly admits she doesn't know what happened to that person, but he isn't the one in front of her now. Credits.

Writer: Phil Ford Director: Colin Cant Episode Episode 4862 - sponsored by Cadbury's Flake Brought to you by ITV.
Update written by Helen Johns.


Wednesday 26 July

Spider is ironing ready for his 2nd interview. He detects that Toyah doesn't really want him to get the job. It's not that, she just doesn't want a mortgage yet. He can't convince her that they're living in a dump and going over and over it won't change her mind. Anyway, she has to leave for work. But he says they need to have a serious talk.

Mike is wondering what Mark is doing as Linda opens their wedding invitations. They're huge, with a gold heart on the front. The venue is Delilo's, Wilmslow, Cheshire. Doesn't it sound posh? Should she have invited more clients.? No, Mike wants to know why she hasn't invited her family. And who's going to give her away? She won't have anyone and doesn't want them there.

Toyah tells Spider that she still loves him, but feels they're going in different directions. He doesn't have the fire and enthusiasm he used to. He says he still feels the same, he just doesn't talk about it as much. No, these days he moans about how the clients can't fill a form in properly. She thinks he's compromising, and it's getting more every day. She wants him to leave his job and do something he really wants to do, they'd get by. But Spider doesn't want to just get by, he wants to build a future for them both. Perhaps she'll understand when she grows up. Toyah understands it now and doesn't like it. She leaves for work, crying.

Maria has arrived to look at the puppies and thinks they're all really healthy. Vera's looking for Norris. He's at the Kabin, giving Rita flowers as thanks for last night. Audrey sees and does a nudge nudge, then goes soppy when she hears about the puppies. No sympathy for Norris from that quarter.

Spider's old anarchist friend Tim ribs him about the interview. He must be well in with someone to be moving so fast so soon. Is it Miss Finchley? Someone's put a smile on her face. After having a go at Spider about giving up on his principles, Tim reveals himself as the other candidate.

Norris is going to leave Vera's. Would it be possible....? Oh no, Rita stamps firmly on that one. Though she does concede letting him stay til the weekend while he looks for somewhere else.

In the Rovers, Mike is still asking about Linda's family. Maybe she's ashamed of him and doesn't want them to know she's seeing an older man. Linda forcefully denies this and makes it clear she doesn't get on with her family and doesn't want them there to spoil her big day.

So Mr. Nugent, what qualities can you bring to the role of Team Supervisor? asks the interviewer. I'll turn the whole system on its head and revolutionise.....the staff rota. Ah! says the interviewer. Oh yes, you'll immediately see an improvement in efficiency across the whole department. The interviewer exchanges a knowing glance with Ms. Finchley.

Interval

Well done Jeffrey, the job's yours, says Ms. Finchley. As good as anyway, Keith was very impressed. He's turned into one of the best prospects she's seen. Tim has a dig and Spider goes back to his post. The client is a single mother of two, who's had her income support cut as a consequence of taking part time work. She took the job because they couldn't manage on benefit. Now she's got even less. She has a real go at Spider and he gets more and more harassed until he feebly says he'll ask his supervisor.

Norris is pondering where to live. What about Alec's flat? Oh, I think he's putting it on the market, asserts Rita swiftly. Vera arrives, Oh you're alive then. Yes so far, concedes Norris, though he may yet contract some rare canine virus. She's been worried he was lying in a gutter somewhere. Well that would be more comfortable than your establishment! He blathers on a bit and she stares at him thoughtfully. Are you being sarcastic. After a bit more blathering she realises, Yes you are. Anyway, enough is enough, Norris will be round later to get his bags, he's literally been hounded out of there. Monica probably picked his room as it was the cleanest in the house. Vera defends her hygiene but Norris says she ought to see Rita's place.

Spider is asking if there isn't something they can do for this poor woman. Why doesn't she work full time? Because she has 2 children. Then tell her to get a husband. Just deal with it please. Spider launches into a speech wondering why they're all there. Isn't it to help the underprivileged? So why do they always stamp on them, just so the Government can give tax handouts to fat cats. He stands on the table. Who's with him? He gets a resounding blank stare, so steps down, hands over his badge, and leaves.

Les and Dennis are at the bar. Jim sees them and challenges them for making such a noise last night. They were straightening forks. No, not that kind, they've got a Vincent Black Shadow.

Ken goes to apologise to Audrey, braving a harangue from Fred. Alf was a dear friend who he much respected and he never meant to denigrate his name. Audrey makes some too late now noises but Ken has a plan to put the record straight. Would she let him write a tribute piece ...man of principle... credit to the community...Audrey looks dreamy as she imagines this glowing peon.

Spider arrives at the café. Toyah's been worrying about him, she said some horrible things. Nothing he didn't already know. He feels like he's been under a spell, but it's over now. He's left the job. Toyah looks shocked.

At another table, Vera is talking to Gary. Paula is coming over next week and he's worried and excited. What if he's working, who'll look after the kids, what if they've got nothing to say to each other and where will they all sleep? Vera assures him they'll sort it all out.

Jim is looking reverently at the bike and tells them about his repair shop. Of course, Les didn't know about this. Would he like to help them.? They've got the enthusiasm but he's got the know-how. Jim is already poking about and agrees.

Toyah gets home to find Spider meditating in front of a candle in tie-dye garb. She puts the kettle on and finds some plane tickets. Are they going on holiday? No, more of a spiritual journey. Not the Millennium Dome?! He's doesn't want to go from one dead-end job to another. He wants to get in touch with what really matters. They leave for India on Friday.


Friday 28 July
Sunday 30 July

Tonight was almost a nightmare - a barbecue which went on longer than expected meant a quick phone call demanding the video be pressed into use, sadly the recording seems to have lost sound so guessing events may yet be in order

As ever copyright to events in Weatherfield belong to ITV Television and the programme was sponsored by Cadbury's Wispa Bite (the visit is on 12 August - I hope they are prepared!!).

Written by Phil Woods Directed by John Anderson

The first visit is to Emily's where Norris has moved in and has enjoyed an out of this world breakfast. Norris remarks that there were no dog hairs and Emily retorts that she does not want to hear any "tails"! Norris is somewhat derogatory about Tyrone's table manners. Norris observes that he has arrived in paradise but as Emily wryly observes Paradise is unlikely to have Mr Battersby next door! Emily did not manage to sleep, Norris suggests sending an anonymous note.

Toyah is bringing Leanne up to date on Spider's departure in the back room of the Rovers. No big row - just a decision that it was not going to work out. Leanne claims she knew but Toyah says she did not really know him. Toyah does not regret a moment of the time with Spider and nor does he. Spider was prepared to settle down but Toyah did not really want that - and now she just feels lost. Later, Toyah is still trying to persuade Leanne that he wanted them both to go to India but the latter doubts it all. Toyah simply refuses to see it through Leanne's eyes, even though he is on his own in India.

Chez Platts, David is bored playing a game and Martin throws him a ball and tells him to get some fresh air. He wants another game and his mates have all gone away on holiday - sadly there is no money for a holiday which as David points out has been spent on Sarah and the baby's needs. Martin brings Gail up to date as David storms out. Gail feels that David is not receiving a fair share of parental attention.

Round at the Battersbys the motor cycle reconstruction scheme is underway. (Does anyone else believe that this has happened before or am I getting confused with something else?). Les and Dennis are hammering away freeing bolts etc. Jim arrives so he does with a new seat which he has secured in return for a favour. The front room has been turned into a workshop {Janice's return should mean instant evolution into a Warrior Princess}. Dennis wanted to put down plastic but Les demurred and there is now oil all over the carpet! Les accuses Dennis of causing the mess, Dennis offers to clear up but Les does not know where to find the "hoover" (Surely he should have said vacuum cleaner!).

At the Kabin Ken is reporting on his book - a visit to the printers the next day. Rita is taking a couple of dozen copies and Norris pledges his support. Roy asks if there will be a proper launch, but sadly there is no money left and the sponsors pulled out - as Curly the ex-sponsor walks in. Ashley arrives to pay the bill and Curly asks if the dinner invitation can be reversed - can Ash and Max go round to Curly's - he has a load of fresh fish. Ashley agrees - all is arranged for 7:30

Audrey arrives with a bottle of wine at the Platts. Is Sarah going to get the baby christened? Audrey thinks she should. Sarah arrives with the baby and as Audrey coos over it David starts bouncing a ball, making a noise which Sarah asks him to stop. Sarah wants Bethany christened but David is not so sure.

Curly is eating crisps in the Rovers when Emma arrives - she has had a call and has to do an extra shift this evening. Curly gets the drinks in. Steve and Vik are looking over the books. First three months figures. Vik is off to London for a week, to stay with some mates. Steve says no as Vik has forgotten about Steve's absence at the trial starting on Monday week (how can he have forgotten - half of London is plastered with large ad boards telling the world about the trial dates). Roy is bending Ken's ear about the importance of cafe's and then offers to host the book launch foc at Roy's Rolls. Ken accepts.

In the Street Emily asks Dennis if the noise level can be kept down. Dennis denies making any late night noise and asks to borrow here vacuum cleaner as theirs is broken. Emily agrees looking confused. Les emerges and spies R'Toyota and observes that her mother must have talked some sense into her. Toyah tells Les that Spider has gone and he says "good riddance to that scum". Les expects her to return home to the family but she asks to be left alone. Emily emerges with the cleaner and seeing Toyah crying takes her indoors to provide some sympathetic listening.

Adverts

Sarah and Martin are clearing up after lunch, Sarah wants to go ahead with the christening, despite some quizzing from both Martin and Gail. Sarah even knows who the two Godmothers (Candice and Hayley) will be - she is just short of a godfather. Martin is unsure about Hayley - so Sarah suggests she can be the godfather! Martin suggests asking David and Sarah agrees. Gail feels that Hayley may be acceptable and reluctantly Martin says OK.

Emily has brewed up and knows how much it must hurt. Emily was always afraid that Geoffrey would let her down as she was so young. Emily goes on to observe that Toyah has matured a lot and has perhaps developed a better outlook on life than Geoffrey who will probably never settle down. Emily tells Toyah not to break her heart - there will be plenty of others, although at the moment Toyah does not want anyone else. Emily will always be available to talk to and will pass on any news she receives.

Dennis has cleared up, although Les did not even notice. 3 bin bags of rubbish! The bike is locked up in the yard. It also appears that Dennis can cook as well - Les appears to have fallen on his feet, although he is told to take his shoes off indoors.

At the dinner party Curly and Ashley are talking about work whilst the girls are quiet, although Emma is not drinking. They are swapping profit percentages (or something), so Emma starts joking about increases in burglary whilst Max has noted blow jobs are 12.4% up (this may not be 100% accurate). The girls are laughing as Emma asks to be excused to go to work. Max invites Curly and Emma to come round next time.

At Streetcars Steve is on duty taking calls, although a revving motorbike outside is making life difficult, which becomes even harder when a brick comes through the window. The motorbike vanishes into the distance without Steve being able to get the number.

Norris finds Jack in the Rovers. Norris implies he left more because Emily needed company than for any other reason. Jack is not accepting an apology. Steve arrives in the Rovers to tell Vik about the brick. Vik reckons it is the competition. Steve does not think so. Ken is also providing Toyah with another view - work experience to complete, results due - she is not sure - she may be stuck in Coronation Street forever. Anyway for the moment she is staying in the flat. Ken reckons independence suits Toyah and she acknowledges the compliment.

Over at the Platts David is off to bed. Gail stops him and Sarah asks David to be the godfather. David takes some convincing from the family and after some grovelling he gives a grudging OK.

Curly apologises again for Emma's departure. Max says it is about time Curly asked her to move in, she would say yes. Curly smiles and says nothing even when Max says that if he doesn't then she will tell Emma to ask him.

Rita is leaning on the bar when Ken asks after her research. Ken volunteers to assist but Rita has already got help from the bookshop keeper. Steve arrives back in the Rovers - the window has been boarded up and will be fixed tomorrow. Steve reckons Jez is behind it. Vik worries about what will happen next as Steve refuses to go to the police. Steve reminds Vik of Jez's friends on the outside. Both are worried.

Sorry no time for comment tonight - see you all again next week.

K Richard Whitbread


Monday 31 July

Gail's: Martin arranges a date for the Christening of Bethany; it is to be on Friday. David is still grumpy about it, but the family decide to go ahead.

Emily's: A donation of jumble for the charity shop is keeping Emily busy. Norris is fairly scathing about everything - until he spots an old train set. He wonders how much Emily thinks it would fetch .... and she says possibly ten pounds. Norris says he used to be a train spotter. He doesn't collect numbers any more but likes the models. He feels that ten pounds is quite a lot of money, and would anyway use up all his spending money for the week. They eventually agree on a price of seven pounds fifty, and Norris looks very pleased with himself.

Curly's: Emma gets in from work, she is exhausted and has had a difficult night. Curly busies himself in the kitchen making tea, and as he does so he rambles on about how much time Emma spends going back and forth from his house to hers. Eventually he gets round to suggesting she move in with him, and not hearing a response, he goes back into the other room, telling her he is crazy about her. Emma is fast asleep on the sofa.

Kabin: Ken and Rita put the finishing touches to the book display. Rita buys one and Ken signs it for her, and one for Norris as well - since he had promised to buy a copy. Norris has to tell Rita that he came out without his wallet, and will pay for the book later.

Cafe: Steve tells Vik that they have had another hoax call. Vik is convinced there is nothing to it, and says if Steve is really worried he should go to the police. Les apologises to Toyah for the way he spoke to her the previous day.

Gary's: Paula phones to arrange to visit Gary and the twins the following weekend. Gary tells the twins the news in baby talk: he is obviously greatly cheered up by the thought of seeing Paula again.

Cafe: Roy puts up a poster for the book launch. Hayley is sceptical about the idea, but Roy is really keen on reviving the tradition of public reading to educate the masses - just like 100 years ago. Vera will not be attending, since she would rather go to bingo. Toyah explains to Les why she and Spider split up. Les is not sorry to see the back of Spider, but admits that the relationship has resulted in Toyah being more mature. Les wants Toyah to know that her family support her, and hope she becomes the first (only) Battersby to go to university. Norris asks Emily for the train set money back - just until the weekend - since he promised Ken to buy the book. Emily is astounded at the gall of the man; the charity can wait but Ken can't? though she gives Norris the money. Sarah asks Hayley to be Godmother to Bethany. Hayley is so touched that she bursts into tears.

Kabin: Mike has a few jokes at Ken's expense about the book.

Somewhere in Manchester: Steve draws up in a taxi to pick up a fare. A very large and scary looking man gets in and tells Steve that if he testifies against Jez he will be killed.

Break
car; social security entitlements; mail; movies; body lotion; home insurance.

Gail's: SL and Candice plan the party for the christening. Gail and SL explain to Candice that she has to look after Bethany's morals as well as giving her beauty and hair advice.

Kabin: Edna stands reading Ken's book, but declines to buy it even after heavy hinting from Rita, and in the presence of the author.

Rovers': Curly tells Ashley and Maxine about Emma falling asleep when he was asking her to live with him. Max urges him not to waste another six months before he asks her again. He says he will ask her tonight. Steve is edgy and snappy with Leanne.

Gail's: Gail is busy planning the party, but SL moans that she is not being consulted. David has not arrived home when expected. Gail is concerned but Martin is more relaxed about it.

Curly's: Emma is just on her way back out to work as Curly gets in. He blurts out that he wants her to move in. She is stunned, and thinks it is a bit sudden. Curly tries to persuade her and she agrees to think about it.

Gail's: David eventually arrives home at 8:30, and Gail gets cross when he offers no explanation. He says he is surprised they missed hm, since they give all their attention to the baby. This predictably results in everyone shouting at each other, the baby bawling its head off and Gail looking stressed.

Rovers': Emily learns more then perhaps she wished to know about Norris's previous train sets. Vik mentions Jez's name to Steve in Leanne's hearing. She wants to know what is going on. Steve says he had a message from Jez.

Gail's: When they are able to talk on their own, Martin says he is not surprised that David feels neglected, under the circumstances. He hopes that after the Christening things will improve. He recognises that is is not just having a baby in the house, it is his and Gail's relationship as well.

Rovers': Hayley is excited about being Godmother, and plans to make a Christening gown. Roy is going to make a cake. He points out the practical obligations of being a god parent. That is, if Gail and Martin were to both die suddenly, and Sarah couldn't cope, and went on drugs or something, Hayley would have to do something about Bethany's welfare. Hayley doesn't let Roy put her off, and reminds him that it is the nearest she will come to being a parent.

Edna goes up to Ken and apologises for not buying his book. She says that she did find it interesting, especially the parts about the sweat-shops in the past. Ken encourages her as she says that such employers are not confined to the past. They go into a huddle to talk about Mike Baldwin's factory.

Steve admits that Jez has really got to him. Leanne, like Vik, feels he should go to the police, but Steve dismisses that idea. He says that even if it was just a bluff to scare him, it has worked. He is adamant that he will not be in court next week. Credits.

Writer: Martin Allen Director: John Anderson Episode 4866 - sponsored by Cadbury's Wispa Bite Brought to you by ITV.
Update written by Helen Johns.

My last update for a little while, I'm afraid. Thanks to everyone who has written in appreciation. Also, my appreciation goes to the other updaters. Keep up the good work chaps and chapesses. Bye for now, Helen.




Updates written by Richard Whitbread, Helen Johns and Kathy Brown


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