We open at Chez Barlow with Ken sat at the dinner table looking worried. Susan is coming today and Ken suggests to Blanche that she should get out of the way. Blanche surprisingly, agrees.
Meanwhile in the flat above the Kabin. Anthony tells Rita that he can't stand Amanda lying and being rude to Rita anymore and that he has come to the decision of finding somewhere new to live.
At Eileen's, Todd and Jason are sat in the living room having breakfast. The caring mother warns Todd not to drink any more lager after what happened on Wednesday and tells the boys that it wasn't Dennis who "grassed them up." After Eileen has gone, Dennis wanders in and asks the boys if they will be stopping in that night. After Todd and Jason have told Dennis a sob story of how their dad used to buy them a Chinese every Friday night, Dennis agrees to do the same and the boys celebrate their debauchery when he has left the room.
Kevin bumps into Danny and the girls. Rosie asks if they can go to their dad's earlier, Kevin liking what he hears makes sure it's alright with Danny who begrudigingly tells them they can see their "dad" whenever they like.
Meanwhile outside the factory, Mike is glaring across the street from which another glare is being delivered straight back courtesy of Ken. Inside the factory Mike tells Linda he didn't know what it was all about outside.
In the Kabin, Sam the Python tells Dennis he has got some bookings for this week and says that he is wanting to get himself a car.
Back at the factory, Peter Barlow has turned up and has received the usual Mike Baldwin stubbornness. Peter however, tells him that Susan is coming down to Weatherfield and that she wants Mike to be present when she arrives.
In the Rovers, Janice and Karen at the bar are nattering about Peter's sudden arrival in the factory. Linda is wondering just why Peter has turned up to see Mike.
Anthony is still telling Rita about his problems finding a new place to live. Rita says that the flat next door to her is empty and that she will let the landlord (Alec Gilroy) know.
Back to the bar, Linda tells Geena that she thinks Mike is having an affair (what, so soon?!) Geena reassures her and the two go into the back for a drink.
Susan has arrived at the Barlow's. Blanche wishes her luck as she leaves. As soon as she is gone, Mike Baldwin lets himself into the house upon Peter's invitation. Ken didn't know that Mike was coming and orders him out of his house. Mike smuggly reveals that Susan has invited him to the meeting.
In the back room of the Rovers, Linda still believes that Mike is cheating on her. Geena then does the honours and reveals that Mike has just found out that he has a long lost son.
At the "family meeting", things are not going too well and Mike and Ken have begun to bicker while Susan looks on with concern.
And back at the Rovers, Geena tells Linda that Susan didn't have an abortion and that Mike's son is in fact twelve years old.
Back to the slanging match and Mike mocks Ken for going twelve years without knowing that he even had a grandson. Susan gets up and shouts to the pair that when they learn to behave like adults she will come back before walking out.
Kevin picks the girls up from Danny and says that he has tickets to go and see 102 Dalmations. Kevin however is dismayed to learn that Danny took them to see the same film the previous week. Outside is David Platt (I'll save my rants on Nottingham Forest for another day.) Sophie tells him that they are off to the cinema. The young Platt says he is off to the Rovers and that he is a regular there now..
In the Rovers, Sam is handing out leaflets for his stripper show. David Platt arrives and asks Geena for his usual. Geena says that management have changed their policy. (Meaning that kids are no longer allowed in the Rovers - hurrah!) The young Platt leaves the Rovers for another seven years..
Rita and Anthony arrive in the pub. Amanda is sat at the table behind the door and when the couple stand at the bar she says that she isn't happy with Anthony moving out.
In the happy home of Eileen, Dennis and the boys, Dennis arrives home with a bag fresh from the Chinese takeaway. Eileen reveals to him that their dad never did the same thing on a Friday night but Dennis already seems to know. As the gruesome twosome pig out on the Chinese, Dennis says to them that they are eating Octopus freshly cooked in it's own ink. The boys have been well and truely much to the smugness of Eileen and Dennis!
All is not well at Ken's and as Blanche returns to ask how things went, Ken and Deirdre have an argument. Ken accuses Deirdre of telling Dev in the hope that Mike WOULD find out but she responds with that if Ken had had any sort of relationship with his daughter then they wouldn't have had this problem.
In the Rovers, Amanda tells Rita that what she has done to Anthony has worked. Anthony tells his daughter that Rita has simply been a good friend and places his hand on Ritas' before revealing that whether Amanda likes it or not - he is moving out this weekend. Predictably, Amanda leaves in a huff.
Linda asks Mike where he has been all afternoon, not knowing that Linda knows, Mike lies to her and says he has been at the golf club. Linda knows he is lying and that's your lot..
Not at all bad this episode. Jack Shepherd as David Platt is absolutely tremendous and his elders playing Jason and Todd Grimshaw could learn a lot from him - he manages to be his character without making me wince at his acting - unlike the two brought in to play Eileen's sons.
The feud between Mike and Ken rekindled for proper tonight and it'll be interesting to see what Linda makes of Adam.
Three cheers for the Rovers being back to normal!!
Phil. Junkman193@aol.com
Tonight's update will be in storyline form as I felt like a change this evening. Hope no-one feels too much is removed.
Written by Martin Allen, directed by John Anderson.
The main storyline this evening concerns Susan and her son Adam. Following the disastrous round table meeting she arranges to meet Mike at his flat and then Ken in the Rovers. Mike has to get rid of Linda and sends her shopping but she smells a few furry rodents and despite being told to use the plastic cannot face shopping. Susan starts off being agitated but calming down to a far more relaxed take on life meets Mike and after putting him in his place by telling him that he left her and Adam when the lad was young - or at least that is the story she has told Adam, she agrees that Mike can meet Adam, providing Mike plays by her rules. Adam does not hate Mike - Susan tells him about their son.
Linda walks in on this cosy meeting as Susan is about to depart and wants to know what Mike is doing with one of his ex-wives - he tells her everything - and jibes at her over Mark ("You got to know my last son rather too well" type of comment) and then apologises - he just did not know how she would take it and nor did we - Linda leaves it open.
In the Rovers Ken meets Susan and again there is rather more practical advancement. Providing everyone behaves and stops arguing like children then they can see Adam. Any disagreements and the visits stop.
At the end of the day Ken and Dreary are re-united happily.
Elsewhere Anthony moves into the flat owned by Alec which is next door to Rita's. Norris spots the removal, including Anthony's bedroom attire. He reports on this later in the Rovers to betty and Emily and we are reminded that when Alec lived there he had a doorway put between the flats. I am fairly certain Steve later bricked it up before Mark moved in but it might still be there. For her age Rita certainly can still pull the men (if Anthony is male of course).
Tyrone starts the episode cleaning his car and Python man talks him into going and collecting a car - he has 400 to spend on wheels. The car does not work at present and will, no doubt, be a spare time occupation for some weeks as it is rebuilt. For reasons which become obvious I will observe that Gail spends time chaperoning the 10year old Rosie but the ten year old David is allowed to roam the streets and is pretending to drive the "wicked" Escort at one point. Python man thinks it is bound to be a babe magnet (Somehow I doubt it).
Kev returns the kids but Sally is still away and Danny insists he can look after them. Kev has no choice but to hand them over. Danny is putting up some bookshelves but the doorbell goes and instead of sending Rosie he answers the door to Gail who is asking after Sally. Whilst they are chatting there is loud bang and we see Sophie sleeping under the bookcase which sadly Danny had not fitted to the wall yet. (This is the wall through which the camera shoots the back room so he would have had difficulties doing so). Now we are supposed to think that the bookcase fell over by itself but I can reveal my superior knowledge. Rursie and the devil have become re-acquainted and she thumped Surphie and pulled the bookcase over on her. (Whatever did happen to that storyline anyway?).
Doctor Matt (he is marrying Lady Tara by the way) popped in and asked Sophie to count his fingers - luckily he only had one and she guesses right - but he still sends her to Accident and Emergency - well he tried to shine a light in her eye and missed by the width of her face - so he clearly failed the practical and is not a qualified doctor. Danny whisks her off to the hospital and Gail gets to babymind the devil incarnate. Any good doctor would either not bother with A&E or summon an ambulance!
Later Dr Matt is in the Rovers and brings Kev up to date on events. He rushes out and finds Gail admiring the new babe magnet - which David is going to help rebuild. Danny and Sophie arrive in a taxi and Kev tells Danny that he is not fit to look after his daughters. In fact he does this in front of the two girls who are next to Gail who protests that Kev should not abuse Danny in public. However Kev does not think he has yet given Danny a big enough piece of his mind and he turns round and smacks Danny hard enough to make his nose bleed and marches off with the gurls.
Dev wants his little helper (Dreary) back as he cannot manage to run a shop without her (he cannot face hard work it seems) and even talks Geena into working in the shop whilst he looks for the neck tendons whom he eventually tracks down at home. Geena has made it clear that he needs Dreary. Linda gives him earache for stealing Geena. Dev is reluctant to face Dreary and keeps putting it off. Eventually they meet and Dreary accepts a fulsome apology so after making Dev sweat she does eventually decide to return to work tomorrow.
And most importantly the social worker turned up to see Roy and Hailey. Bit of a flap on apparently, some poor kid called Jackie, 15, needs temporary fostering. Mother has to have a gall bladder operation and the grandparents are too old. Should only be for a week or two. The child is perfect, never been in any trouble, bright and no behavioural problems and it will be one of the easiest fostering jobs the social worker has ever had - a nice easy start for the Croppers. And when do they have to decide? Today! So they say yes. Who wants to bet that a little female tearaway is about to enter their simple little lives and one with a basket load of prejudices? This is a soap after all.
I'll be back next week. I quite like this approach as I get a better chance to slip in observations.
K Richard Whitbread
Kevin goes round to Danny to collect the girls' clothes. Danny is being obtrusive. Kevin says that they will stay with him until Sally comes back and the place is safe.
Blanche goes to the health centre, and notices a strange smell.
Deidre comes round to Dev and says she will return on the condition that if she discusses things, it won't go further. He agrees.
Mike discusses with Linda that he wanted to know how much Adam knows about him. He hopes that Susan will let him spend a weekend with him.
Hayley comes to ask Mike and Linda that she would like Wednesday off as that is the day her first foster child comes.
Rita confirms with Anthony that Amanda has invited him for dinner. She thinks she wants to make friends. Anthony is more suspicious.
The doctor is faced with a load of boxes that have come from the cellar. They are soaked, and the smell is much worse than in reception.
The girls are out with Kevin and spot Danny across the road. They want to come back in to play with their dolls. Kevin won't let them. Kevin then takes it out on the guys at the garage.
David puts Gail on the spot and asks if Sam can put his car in the garage, becuase Kevin doesn't want it in the garage.
Anthony has dinner with Amanda. He hopes they will be able to talk without arguing. He says he loves her mother, and they have had a happy time together. He believes that she can no longer feel anything for him. Amanda disagrees. Anthony says he feels very alone, and without Rita he would have gone mad. Then George, Isobel's brother, and Anthony's son come in. They remind him that he is still married to her. Anthony says he must stop treating her as if she doesn't exist. He says he must treat her as his wife.
The doctor comes to see Duggie as he rebuilt the medical centre. He threatens to go to the Town hall about the smell, and the leaks. Duggie invites him for a drink. Duggie says if he goes to the Council, they would shut him down. He says he will fix it.
Linda and Fred suggest to Mike that he demands his rights and to go to Scotland to see his son.
Rita hears an argument in the street between Anthony and Amanda. Amanda believes he wants his wife to die. He says he doesn't want that. He thinks it would be best if he divorced Isobel. Rita looks shocked.
Martin Rosen
Roy and Hayley are awaiting the arrival of their first foster child, Roy would have felt easier if it was going to be a lad.
Sally returns home and sticks up for Kevin until she realises that there was fisticuffs infront of the girls.
Douggie finds Steve to find out what he is going to do about the smelly cellar at the health centre.
Anthony apologises to Rita about the scene in the street and had hoped she would see things his way. Anthony wants a future with Rita.
Sally questions Gail about Kevin's behaviour, Gail sides with Danny saying he didn't deserve such treatment. Sally goes round to the garage to see Kev who reckons Danny needs taking down a peg or two.
Mike wonders whether Adam wants to get to know him . Fred likens
it to his relationship with Ashley and now they are like the cobbles
in the street.
Douggie is still chasing Steve to see what he is going to do about
the cellar. Steve places the blame in Douggies court as Douggie
wanted him to cut corners so he did.Douggie wants to smooth it
over before the council find out. Steve has already told the DOc
to go to the Council.
Mike wants to see Adam, Susan is making him wait saying Adam isn't ready yet. Linda is encouraging Mike to push for access ASAP. Mike hopes ken isn't putting the knife in with Susan about him.
Douggie buys Audrey a drink then starts chatting about the council. Audrey sees through his ploy and tells him it won't work.
Maxine is getting impatient about not getting Pregnant, Doc tells Ashley to tell Maxine to give it time and to find something to distract her.
Jackie is the teenage Girl that is staying with Roy & Hayley. Roy feels out of his depth and waffles on about historical weatherfield.
Kevin has another ding dong with Danny in the Rovers, Douggie pulls him off. Danny goes home and gives sally the ultimatum that either Kevin never steps foot over their doorstep or they move.
Anthony goes to see his wife to tell her that he plans to divorce
her because he has to move on to find a new life . She eats
the flowers that he brought her.
Der der der der der der (supposed to be the corrie tune)
Janette
Tonight's show opens above the caf. Hayley is making what looks to be a breakfast for the starving five thousand. Jacky comes out of her bedroom ready for school and spologies to Roy - it seems the two have had an embarrassing faux-pas during the bathroom run. The bathroom door knob has come off in Roy's hand who says that DIY isn't his forte.
Linda and Mike arrive at work. Linda says that Mike has said nothing all morning and she suggests that he just phone Susan. He says it's not as easy as that and heads towards the shop.
Charlie and Matt Ramsden are leaving for work, Charlie admits she doesn't want to go to Ashley and Maxine's for dinner that evening. As they are walking past Chez Peacock, Maxine rushes out with an apron on and says to them they she has taken the afternoon off especially to cook for tonight. Despite Charlie's reservations they agree to meet at 7:30 (hope they've got their favourite soap onto tape..)
Above the Kabin, Rita explains to Anthony how upset she is about his decision to divorce Isabelle.
In the health centre, Doctor Ramsden asks where "the bloke from the council is?" Gail tells him that "he" is behind him and points towards the woman sat on the chair behind him. He apologies to her and says that he is unhappy with the state of the health centre and the damp. She agrees and adds that she is unhappy with the quality of the workmanship on the centre. Dr Ramsden says he will take her to see the head contractor
Which leads us into the Rovers. Duggie checks his mobile phone and sits down. At the bar, Dev and Mike chat about Mike's ongoing problems with Susan. Mike asks Dev what he would do about it but Dev insists he has done enough and is staying out if it.
Duggie is speaking on his phone when the lady from the council comes in. She ignores Duggie's sweet talk and introduces herself as Liz Morrisey. He thinks she is a reporter but his expression changes when she reveals where she is from.
In the shop, Rita shuts up early and confides in Emily. She tells of Anthony's plans to a shocked Emily.
Back in the Rovers, Duggie is showing Liz the paperwork from the building work done on the health centre. Liz is not happy and says to Duggie that his firm won't be getting any more business from the council.
At the bar, Ashley says to Dr Ramsden that he is wanting to tape the game tonight (Chesterfield vs. Cheltenham??!) but the doc says that they'll watch it live instead.
In the shop, Rita is pouring her heart out to Emily who agrees with Anthony's family saying that Rita knew that Anthony was married when thet had become closer. Emily says that she thinks Anthony is divorcing Isabelle so that he can propose to Rita.
Sally drives into Coronation Street and meets up with Kevin whom sees her from the garage. She says that from now on she will bring the girls to him. Kevin, predictably, doesn't like this and comes to the angry conclusion that Danny has said that he no longer wants Kevin in their house. Sally takes Danny's side saying that she wants to agree to his wishes.
Emily comes out of no 3 and waiting behind the door is Anthony. Emily says that Rita has been put in a difficult situation and brushes Anthony aside.
In the Rovers, Fred suggests to Mike that he should get the law in to sort out the problem with Adam and Susan.
In the Peacocks, the Ramsdens arrive. After an awkward silence, Charlie through her teeth comments on the interior of the house and Maxine says that dinner won't be long.
Roy and Hayley are worrying about Jacky who is late home. When she does return home she refuses the healthy food that Hayley has got in for her and goes to bed early.
Anthony arrives at Ritas. He has been to see Isabelle without much success. Rita is still unhappy about the whole situation and tells Anthony that she is too old for all this trouble. She says that she can't sleep at night for guilt. Anthony is genuinely taken aback by this, Rita says that she hopes that he isn't going through all this just for her.
At the dinner party, Matt and Ashley are watching the football on the TV. Charlie and Maxine sit uncomfortably at the table. They are finding it difficult to chat with the majority of the comments being raised unable to generate a response from the other party. The football game produces a goal and the subsequent cheers from the men.
In the Rovers, Mike bumps into Peter Barlow. He demands to let him know if Susan will let Mike see Adam. Peter says that the Barlow family are united and that he and Susan will do everything to make sure that Mike won't have anything to do with them.
The Ramsdens are leaving the dinner party. Charlie is not happy that Matt left her with Maxine all night. Inside the Peacocks, Maxine feels the same and isn't happy with Ashley who made her sit with Charlie all night. She storms off up to bed early much to the amusement of Ashley.
Linda sits at home watching TV when Mike comes in. He says that he has been speaking to Peter Barlow and that from now on the gloves are off - he is bringing in the solicitors!!
Review by Phil - Junkman193@aol.com
A little late, courtesy of a concert, but the video recorder did work so I am pleased to be able once again to bring you events on the Street from Sunday night.
Written by Mark Wadlow, directed by Tony Prescott
Matt is off to Saturday morning surgery with a huge hangover. After they got home from "Posh and Becks" next door (Ash and Max) it appears that the professional couple got stuck into some serious drinking and the doc then watched monster truck racing until 4am. Charlie has little sympathy - "Physician, heal thyself" and he departs.
Over at Weatherfield Quays Linda is sweet talking Mike and forcing him to phone Susan - Linda is putting some really heavy pressure on Mike and he is eventually convinced to take action.
Anthony is buying a paper from Rita - both are fairly frosty until Norris blunders in complaining about his knees. Rita had a bad night and retires upstairs with a headache.
Mike speaks to Susan - Why is he ringing every day? Susan is seeing to the washing as Mike talks. Susan has tried to tell Adam - but with his problems at school she does not want to make his burden worse. Susan asks Mike to break the news gently. Mike has guessed that Susan is playing for time and asks to see Adam today. Mike is left with no alternative - he is going to brief his solicitor - Mike is taking the only course of action left to him and the call ends. Susan knows that there is no room to move when Mike is bearing down. Linda praises Mike for taking a strong line.
Matt is trying to eat a sandwich when Norris wanders in. He takes a seat and observes there is a strange smell - more like Roys Rolls than a medical centre - as Matt continues to try to disguise that he has a mouthful of said sandwich!! Norris describes a long medical history of bad knees in the family before observing that Matt does not look well at all.
On the other side of the cafe Duggie is passing on the bad news to Steve that he has lost the next big council job because of the damp proofing problem in the medical centre. Steve observes that spending 10k would not stop it being damp - true enough but the manager at the council is not willing to turn a blind eye and Matt Ramsden is making an even bigger smell out of the problem. Duggie has not got a chance of recovering the situation.
Earlier Roy had explained to Jackie why they were fostering and now we see Sarah go and chat to her - they had seen each other around the school but do not know each other. Sarah explains how she knows Roy and Hailey. Hayley put her up to it to give Jackie someone to talk to. Roy doubts that it was a good idea. Roy is still worried about Hayley's background - but Hayley thinks he is making too much of it.
Over at Ken's, Peter has arrived with bad news from Susan. She phoned Peter with a relay of Mike's glad tidings and although Ken leaves an upbeat message Susan is telling Adam that they are going on holiday to visit friends - in the middle of term. Adam does not seem convinced.
Roy and Hayley are discussing the "issue" but Roy admits that he sometimes over-analyses and worry needlessly - but it is time they stopped. Hayley suggests they go out this evening but she agrees to do something. Roy suggests a talk on the "Manchester Marshes" - are they a dance band? says Jackie. Eventually they all decide to go bowling. Roy thinks this might be another challenge - it is written all over his face!
Adam does not want to go but Susan says she really needs to get away. She wants to talk to him but cannot yet - and eventually she forces him to get in the car to go.
Matt has told Norris there is nothing wrong as he recounts to Rita in the shop. Amanda walks into the back of the shot and Rita admits she has been expecting her. Rita cuts to the quick and tells Amanda that she thinks Anthony is wrong to divorce Isabelle and that she has told him as much. Amanda is clearly surprised by this revelation but hits back saying that Rita was against Anthony moving in next door. Rita says that is a different matter. Amanda is convinced it was all part of the master plan.
In the Rovers Dev is eating lunch when Duggie tells him that the contract with the council is not progressing. The council have reneged on a letter of intent as a result of the problems at the health centre. Dev does not want to be done over like this - he will consult his solicitor, although the odds seem large.
Amanda attacks Rita over the divorce - her father would never have thought of it before meeting Rita. Rita responds that Amanda is just as much part of the problem. If she was not creating so much fuss and nuisance then Anthony would feel no need for a divorce. The two redheads fly at each other as Amanda considers her parents' marriage is being destroyed by Rita whilst Rita does not want the divorce any more than Amanda does - believing that Anthony should continue to support his wife but perhaps understanding that he cannot be hypocritical over the issue whilst suffering the pressure from Amanda and her brother. The shouting match takes place with Norris in shot obviously listening to every word.
Back in the Rovers Dev wants his money back in full. Duggie wants to share the losses and he reckons they should both be down 10k. Dev reckons Duggie is down 20k and Dev finally grasps that Steve McDonald is the cause of the problem.
Roy, Hayley and Jackie are bowling and sadly words cannot describe the eloquent sequence which took place. Roy has never bowled before and since this morning he has borrowed a book ("Up the Alley") from the library and speed-read it! He knows the theory and tries to put into practice with a shuffle step, then a couple of steps and then swing the ball with a sweet release. Now have you ever tried to do it by the book - a wonderful comic sequence but you really need to see it!! The ball drops into the side gulley (that's where mine always go). Jackie turns out to be a bit of demon and starts getting strikes - but then she and her father did a lot of it. Jackie finds the whole thing quite amusing. Roy seems to be lacking the hand/eye co-ordination. Jackie was worried about being fostered but it does not seem so bad. Roy offers to take them both for a pizza and whilst Jackie prefers pasta it is agreed. Roy then takes his turn and somehow manages a strike.
Down at the shop Dev finds Steve buying some bread and demands that Dreary charges him double. Steve does not understand when Dev explains that he has lost a lot of money today and he expects Steve to make up every penny. Not surprisingly Steve takes his shopping elsewhere.
Anthony enters Rita's flat and asks for an explanation. Rita tries to explain that she does not want the blame for his actions. If they had never met ... Rita recounts Amanda's visit and Anthony somewhat hot headed makes to phone Amanda but Rita dissuades him. Anthony is hating Isabelle because his life is vanishing and then he hates himself and he is consumed by guilt and he continues to go round in circles - and he admits he should not be divorcing Isabelle - but that Isabelle should be divorcing him for being unfaithful.
At the Rovers Linda and Mike are discussing Susan and Adam when Ken arrives and accuses Mike of harassing Linda. Ken seeks to warn him off but it is totally lost on Mike who will find them where-ever they go.
Peter arrives. In an appalling piece of acting we are told that there has been a car crash on the motorway and Susan is dead.
Quick observation - at the age of 14/15 would I have even known about a "trans-sexual"? Almost certainly not. If I had been fostered I think I might take the information badly - but I was male and it was a long time ago. Is the concept known and understood at that age? I'd like to think that perhaps the world is a little more open than the late sixties but I am doubtful. I have no doubt that ITV have taken advice and that the proposed situation is tenable - I just wonder if it anywhere as easy as has been implied?
I have not been impressed with Peter's abilities and this evening endorsed that - it did not just feel right - in real life would he not have taken Ken away from Mike before breaking the news?
And can Dev recover his money?
All will eventually be revealed. -- K Richard Whitbread
It's Monday and that means only one thing ....
Ken is questioning Peter to see if there could be a mistake. Mike is concerned about Adam, as his father. Ken shouts at him. They all go off to the hospital.
Rita wants a quiet night in on her own rather than going out with Anthony.
Hayley, Roy and Jackie come back from bowling. Jackie enjoyed it, and Roy thinks it is wonderful he has been introduced to a new pastime.
Sarah and Candice find David's Valentine cards he is writing. David gets very embarrassed and tries to get them back.
The Baldwins and Barlows arrive at the hospital. The doctor confirms Susan's death. The police don't know how the accident happened. Adam is not seriously injured.
Emily comes to the pub to collect the charity tin from the Rovers. There is hardly anything in it. Emily is very disappointed. Gina suggests that the bar staff sell their kisses on Valentine's Day at a £1 a go, and the money goes to charity.
Ken identifies Susan's body. Mike offers to tell Adam the news about his mother. Peter says then he will ask who Mike is. Peter says he will tell him.
Adam wakes up. He is hurting, and Peter starts to explain he was in an accident, but can't bring himself to tell him about his mother. Ken tells Adam.
Mike asks Ken how Adam took the news. He says he is still very groggy and it hasn't sunk in yet. Ken says he will take him home for a few days until things are sorted.
They arrive home, and settle Adam in front of the television, and he falls asleep. Ken bursts out in tears. He is full of recriminitations about himself.
Roy is worried that Jackie is hanging around with the (Eileen) Grimshaw boys. He thinks she may get pregnant. Hayley thinks he is worrying unduly.
Mike is upset that Ken is making all the decisions. Linda says he should let everything settle to start with and then he will be able to see his son.
Adam comes crying to Ken - he wants him mum.
Martin Rosen
Deidre and Ken discuss whether Susan left a will and what is going to happen to Adam.Adam is missing Peter, Deidre goes to his flat to get him.
Sarah- Lou receives no cards- Gail receives a card which just says love M Jackie thinks Jason is perfect, Roy is worried about her liking older lads.
Martin receives a card that says love G.Eileen as sent her lads a card each much to their disgust.
Adam wants to sleep at Peters.Peter offers to take him out for a change of scenery.Ken thinks they should get the funeral over with as quickly as possible. Peter makes the suggestion that she is buried with their mother, Ken is pleased with that suggestion.
Gail and Martin compare cards, Gail thinks one of them should have a word with David,Martin offers.
Roy chats to Eileen about Jason asking how can they keep them apart. Eileen says that nothing they can do will keep them apart, it's part of growing up. Roy is hovering over Jackie, Jason and friends, Hayley tells him to play it by ear, The girls leave to go back to school, on the pretence of cleaning tables Roy overhears Jason say that he is not interested in Jackie as she is just a kid. Roy is over the moon but Hayley thinks Jackie will be devastated.
Adam is missing his mum. Ken wishes they had stayed in Glasgow instead of coming down to see them. Adam says they were on their way to Ireland and says his mum needed to get away. Ken comes to the conclusion she was running from Mike.
Martin questions David about the cards telling him that there is no way him and Gail are getting back together even though they are getting on better, if he moved back in it would just make everybody miserable.
Sam and Doggie are selling kisses to the ladies, Toyah and Gina to the chaps , everybody is enjoying themselves.
Hayley makes Jackie her fave tea expecting her to be devastated about Jason , Jackie returns from school full of smiles Michael Robinson's asked her out, Roy asks what about Jason, she thinks he is full of himself, Roy tells Hayley that teenage romance has taken a toll on him.
Ken tells Deidre that Mike has killed Susan with his bully boy tactics and that she better not stick up for him.
A jealous Dev pays £50 to claim Gina's lips for the rest of the night after seeing Steve McDonald enjoying kissing her.
Mike calls at Ken's demanding to see Adam. Ken accuses him of killing Susan, Dev leads Mike away swearing he will see Adam, his son.
Janette- who thinks Roy is wonderful, as the clucking father figure
Tonight's show opens in the Barlows house with a withdrawn Adam playing Snake on his mobile phone. He says that his mum bought him the phone for him to text his friends and for him to phone her at work. Peter comes in and suggests that ut is time Adam got dressed. Adam asks if he has to wear a tie and Peter says it is normal at a funeral to show respect. Adam runs upstairs. Deidrie and Peter reassure Ken that he'll be alright.
In the caf, Roy and Hayley are told by Peter from the fostering agency that Jackie's mum has come out of hospital and that Jackie can now go home.
In the Kabin, Rita can't decide which scarf to wear to the funeral. As Norris helps her out, Anthony walks in. He says he wishes he hadn't told her about his plans to divorce Isabelle. Both of them find out that they are going to have an unpleasant morning; Rita is going to the funeral and Anthony is going to his solicitors.
Family and friends have gathered inside Ken's house before the funeral. Emily and Blanche talk about the withdrawn Adam who continues to play with the phone by himself.
Mike Baldwin, unbeknown to the Barlows' is getting ready to go to the funeral. It is his birthday and despite Linda's reservations he is going to go. Linda agrees to go with him.
In the caf, Hayley is mourning the news of Jackie's imminent departure. Jackie comes home from school, she has heard the news and can't wait to get home with her mum.
At the graveyard. The family and friends are gathered around the open grave. As the vicar gives his blessings about Susan, Ken notices Mike and Linda approach the ceremony. He is not happy but is told by Deidrie not to spoil things by going over to him and telling him to leave.
In the Rovers, Fred meets up with Anthony at the bar. Anthony tells him about his plans to divorce Isabelle. Fred is taken aback and despite Anthony's concerns, agrees with Rita who calls him cold-hearted.
Back at the funeral, the coffin is lowered into the ground as Ken and Mike glare at each other. As the mourners throw dirt onto the coffin, Adam makes an attempt to run away. He runs straight into the arms of Mike Baldwin, Adam tries to fight him off but Mike picks this moment to tell him that he is his father. Then with a shot to make Ken proud, Adam hit Mike in the nose. Mike tries to reassure Adam who is lost with what is going on. Mike glares to Ken who comes over and has the predictable bust-up in the graveyard with him.
In the Kabin, Jackie is buying chocolates for Roy and Hayley but can't decide which box to choose much to the impatient Norris's displeasure. Kevin comes in and sees Sam reading a magazine. Sam reveals that his mother has thrown him out of home because he has continued to strip. Kevin feels sorry for him and offers him his couch to sleep on temporarily.
At the Barlows, the funeral has ended and Blanche, Rita and Emily can't believe what happened. Peter refills Ken's glass, Deidrie says that Adam has to find out eventually. Peter in accordance with Susan's wishes does not want Mike to be a part of Adam's life. Adam comes downstairs, not knowing what is going on. He tells Ken that the "man at the funeral" (Mike) came to their house. He asks if it is true that he is his father. Ken reluctantly says that it is.
In the flat, Mike has started on the scotch and Linda gets a bag of frozen peas for him to put on his nose. Linda can't get through to him. The door knocks - it is Dev.
In the Rovers, Karen, Steve, Vik and Bobbi are at the bar. Steve impresses Bobbi with a trick with a beer mat. Vik has hatched a plan to try and get Steve and Bobbi together.
In the caf, Ken buys Adam a milkshake. Adam demands to know why he is still treated like a child - after all, he is now 12! Adam wonders what if his mum was still alive in the coffin and that the hospital might have made a mistake. Ken reassures him that the hospital didn't make a mistake. Adam says that he doesn't want to be buried like Susan when he dies. He asks Ken if "that man" (Mike) was invited to the funeral. Ken says that he wasn't.
In the caf, Roy and Hayley say their goodbyes to Jackie who presents them with the box of chocolates she bought from the Kabin. She leaves by hugging Hayley and shaking Roy's hand!
In the Rovers, Rita and Sally discuss Rita's continuing problems with Anthony. Sally says that she shouldn't bother with a man who has divorced his sick wife.
Mike plans to get access to Adam one way or another but is worried about the fact that Adam's mind may have been poisoned by the Barlow's bad comments about him. Dev suggests that he gets the best lawyers that money can buy and leave them to it. Mike suggests he goes round to the Barlows and apologises but Dev and Linda tell him not to.
At the caf, Adam tells Ken that he didn't mean to hit him. Ken says that Susan, under the circumstances would have been proud. Ken reveals to Adam that "the man's" name is Mike Baldwin and says that although he is his father he is a bad man who hounded Adam's mother to her death. He finishes saying that Adam doesn't want to know him.
Phil Spink
Just a reminder - updaters are human and video machines are fallible. Mine appears to have recorded the episode as normal but will not now show me ITV live. So next week could be interesting. Anyway thanks to Phil for Friday and I am sure Kathy will be back to normal next week.
This evening events in Weatherfield are courtesy of ITV Television who retain all copyright and are sponsored by Cadburys Flake.
Written by David Lane, directed by Graham Wetherell.
At the Barrows (according to my spell checker) Dreary and Ken are discussing bringing back his possessions from Scotland. Peter arrives with Adam - who keep asking about his father. Ken only intends to tell the truth as he sees it - a disgraceful man from whom Adam should be kept. Dreary keeps her own counsel
Outside the garage a well wrapped up Dennis finds Python Sam working on his car. Sam has spent the night in the car because Kev has the gurls at the weekend and there was nowhere to sleep. Dennis suggests he approaches the Battersbys for his old room - at which point Janice appears in the Street. Dennis asks if she will consider Sam and she seems OK with the idea. As she turns round she bumps into Steve and Vik who are wandering down the Street. Karen and Vik are going out tonight - will Steve join them as there has been a mix-up and Bobbi is joining them and Vik would prefer a foursome to keep her occupied. Steve reminds Vik he got nowhere at the party but Vik reckons his luck might have changed so Steve agrees.
Mike comes out of Underworld and sees Deirdre and calls her. Mike asks after Adam and Deirdre points out that Mike is not going the right way about things. Deirdre confirms the gossip that Susan was running away.
In the Rovers Karen is soft-soaping Bobbi into joining her, Vik and Steve - to balance the numbers. Karen says that Steve's presence is unexpected. But Bobbi says Geena will be out with Dev and she will have the flat to herself. Karen says please numerous times. On the other side of the Rovers Janice and Les approach Sam and ask why he is homeless. Sam explains he needs the money and needs to keep his body in trim. Les asks after his musical tastes - sadly Sam does not seem keen on Status Quo. Janice asks his stripping. Les offers to help on the gigs to keep women at bay. Janice asks about his posing pouch.
At the bar Peter is pouring drinks down his throat. Toyah makes reference to it and he snaps her head off. Rita arrives and orders a vodka and tonic. And Peter demands another drink.
Over at Weatherfield Quays Mike is consulting his solicitor - but sadly this is not the same person as last time around. This is Gabrielle, although again of Asian extraction. Bring back the old one I say. Mike wants access to Adam and we are reminded that Mike and Susan must still have been married when Adam was born although there is probably no name on the birth certificate. Linda is particularly forceful in pointing out how much Mike as lost.
Back in a booth at the Rovers Rita is having a drink with Fred - Anthony has gone to a book fair. Fred tells Rita that he knows about the divorce - Fred was shocked at first, but he has thought about it. Fred reckons that if it did happen to anyone they would still want their partner to have a life - Fred explains that at first sight it is a terrible thing for Isabelle - Anthony is risking scorn of everyone in sight and perhaps he is very brave. Rita does not know if it is bravery or sheer pig-headedness.
Les and Janice offer Sam a room - 40 a week. Dennis coughs hard and Janice makes it thirty. Sam changes his mind - he is a bit worried about their interest in his stripping.
Gabrielle reckons that Peter is probably best placed to bring up Adam with the grandparents but as Linda points out: a) Deirdre is not Adam's grandmother b) Deirdre has been in prison c) Deirdre has been married to some foreigner d) Deirdre was once married to Ken but he is old enough to be her father ... but it is not like her and Mike e) Linda brought up brothers (can someone remind me what became of them please?) so she knows how to look after children.
Mike reckons that Adam is better off with him. Gabrielle reckons that Mike should play the long game - be responsible get access and then work on Adam - an early decision and the contents of any will might make life difficult.
Sam knocks on Gail's door for some water for his tea. She invites him to dinner (tea) that evening. (Reminder David is helping Sam rebuild the car - just in case you thought there was no contact between the two).
Mike thinks that they should seek a second opinion - Linda is not sure. Mike then compliments her on her attitude and she explains that she will do anything to help Mike get Adam.
Gail tells Sarah that Sam is coming to tea and she hares upstairs to make herself look presentable. Sam and David come in - the latter has changed an oil filter and appears to have got most of the oil over his clothes. Sam says hallo to the baby and Sarah arrives looking very presentable.
At the restaurant Steve and Bobbi are waiting for the others - both have managed to look presentable. Steve phones Vik and asks where they are. Vik pretends that he and Karen are otherwise occupied in the flat but Fred blows the gaffe by shouting loudly for a scotch and threat. Steve breaks the bad news to Bobbi that Vik and Karen are not coming. Vik reckons that nature will take its course now they are together. Fred reckons mobile phones should be banned. Fred then asks Peter about Adam. Peter is lost without Susan and is obnoxious to Emily. Peter demands another double from Toyah but she refuses. He insults Toyah and Karen and departs.
Bobbi decides to stay and the two of them are almost nice to each other. Maybe, just maybe.
Sam has enjoyed his meal at Gail's and he compliments Gail on her cooking. She reckons he can come again(!).
Rita arrives at Anthony's. She is a little shocked to find that Fred knows about her private life. Anthony reckons Fred is a good listener. Anthony expresses the view that Rita is the one with the problems and she is willing to hear this and storms out.
Ken is preparing for the trip to Scotland. Peter arrives from the Rovers. Ken asks if he is alright and Peter responds that his sister is dead and his life is a mess but otherwise things are fine. Peter reckons it is all his fault - he let is slip. Peter is deeply unhappy and everything people think about him is right. Ken moves to embrace him. {I observed the other evening in conversation that becoming responsible for Adam might just be the making of Peter - I hope I am about to be proven right - seeing a conversion of this nature would be wonderful}.
At the restaurant, Steve and Bobbi are still on friendly terms and Steve suggests that perhaps they could go back to her flat as he knows Geena is out. As Bobbi observes Steve does think he is god's gift to women but sadly she does not agree. He is not coming back with her - but if had been less direct and played the longer game who knows where they might have ended up? Here is 20 for the meal - she is not after his money and yes Geena is out - but Bobbi wanted the flat to herself and she has not wasted the whole evening - only part of it. Steve seems stunned by this full frontal attack as Bobbi departs.
Ken seeks to re-assure Peter. Adam comes downstairs and Adam asks if they can go. Ken offers Adam a home with him and Deirdre. Adam looks bemused and Dreary seems uncertain - the closing camera shot lingers on her expression of disbelief and possible refusal to look after three generations of mother, partner and his grandson.
Is Rita right or wrong? Do I care? Perhaps if Anthony was not such an odd person for the backstreets of Weatherfield I might be concerned. I do not feel Rita should be unhappy - she does not deserve that.
Is Gail going to have to fight Sarah for the Python? And who will win - we all know that Gail likes virile young men!
And I think Adam should live with Peter and maybe the latter can find a purpose to his life - it could make a great story over the next year or so.
What odds am I offered on Bobbi eventually finding Steve irresistible? 1 week, 1 month or longer?
Back next week. -- K Richard Whitbread
Ken, Deidre and Blanche are preparing Adam for a trip back to Glasgow. Peter comes round and apologies for getting drunk.
Karen and Vikram are snogging much to Steve's annoyance
Bobbie says she doesn't like being set up. She says she didn't get on with him.
Anthony walks by the shop, and Rita calls him over. He thinks she wanted for him not to talk.
Mike spots Adam being driven off by Ken and Peter. He asks Deidre where they are going. She tells him that they are going to Glasgow to pick up some clothes.
Gina announces that Natalie has had a baby girl, Laura, 9 pounds 3oz (for those of you that are concerned!).
Amanda comes to see Anthony. She has been given power of attorney over her mother's affairs. He feels he cannot handle her affairs while divorcing her. He confesses that he was estranged with Isobel years before she became ill, and that is one of the reasons he is divorcing her.
Rita overhears Anthony and Amanda arguing over the divorce. He thinks he has sullied himself in Rita's eyes.
Deidre explains to Blanche that Ken has decided that Adam can move in. Blanche says the lad needs all the help he can get.
Candice and Sarah come out of Rita's shop, and Rita comes after them because Candice has forgotten her wages. They are more interested in Candice's sons. One of them tries to let Candice down lightly, but she doesn't take the hint. The other one talking to Sarah says he is interested in Candice.
Karen is preparing a birthday meal for Vikram. Steve says he is on a long job. She says she will make do with Steve. Steve says Bobbie doesn't agree with her, to which Karen says she doesn't know what she is missing.
Sally is puzzled and surprised when Dennis tells her that Kevin has gone off to see Natalie's kid.
Steve gets a phone call from Vikram. He has broken down, so he has to help Karen eat the meal she has prepared.
Anthony fears he has lost everything with the divorce. Rita says he hasn't lost her.
Steve and Karen are getting closer to each other. She goes to kiss him, but Steve pushes her away because she is his best mate's girlfriend.
Janette will have time to get home from work, make her meal, go to a party! ... the programme starts over 2.5 hours later than usual on Wednesday.
Martin Rosen
Steve is cleaning up after Karen's meal when Vik appears at the door. He got back at 11:30 but Karen had gone and Steve was in bed. He'd also phoned at 10:30 but Steve says he'd gone out for a walk. Vik looks doubtful.
In the Kabin, Todd steals looks at Candice, but she thinks he's looking at Sarah. Curly tells Rita he's collecting his wedding video today. Sally is also there buying mints and pulls a face when they talk about Natalie.
Adam is fast asleep on the Barlow's sofa. He and Ken got back at 1 that morning. Ken found it strange to see all the evidence of their life that he knew nothing about. Peter has stayed up there to sort through their things. Deirdre wishes that Ken has spoken to her before saying that Adam could live with them. They don't have room. He has the perfect solution, move up to Susan's.
Vik talks to Karen in the street. She says she didn't get his call as she'd switched her mobile off and had an early night. Also in the street, Candice cuts Jason. He tells her not to be like that, it's just the age difference. What not try their kid? He fancies her rotten. Eileen asks Vik if he enjoyed his surprise. Vik of course never got to see Karen in Underworld's executive range which we hear really did the trick for Dennis. Eileen thinks Vik must have done something to upset Karen as last she saw, she was all stoked up for it.
Deirdre doesn't think moving to Glasgow is a good idea. Ken says Adam would be able to return to his school and his friends. What about their friends? Her mother? Their work? Mike? Ken said Mike didn't figure in Susan's plans and he won't be in Ken's either.
Over in the Rovers, Vik is asking Dev what he makes of it all. He didn't check in Steve's room and he didn't go round to Karen's, so he doesn't know where they actually were. But Dev agrees that their behaviour looks dodgy. He thinks Steve is taking Vik for a ride and that something definitely happened. Curly tells Max he's getting his wedding video and she invites him and Emma round on Friday.
Adam goes to play in the street and sees Mike coming out of the factory.
Interval
Mike apologies for shocking Adam at the funeral. Adam wonders why he's there and Mike explains he owns the factory. He then wants to know why Mike left when Adam was a baby, but before Mike can reply, Ken appears and takes Adam back inside.
Full of suspicions, Vik interrogates Karen again. He wonders why she didn't try ringing him, it was his birthday. She can't understand why he's making such a big deal out of it. She agrees to tell him the truth. They had the meal and a few drinks and then she felt something wasn't right. Steve didn't do anything, she just didn't want to give the wrong impression. They agree to go for a meal later.
Geena asks Sally if she's heard from Kevin. It's nice that someone has gone to see Natalie. Sally of course doesn't see it that way. She remarks cattily that it's a good job Kevin has someone to look after his kids.
Ken takes Adam to the café. The girls are there. Candice can't believe that Jason fancies her and from Sarah's bored expression, hasn't stopped talking about it all morning.
Vik now questions Steve again. What happened? What time did Karen leave? She said you were flirting with her. Steve confesses, they had a meal, too much to drink and started messing around. She tried it on, I said no way and she left. Vik doesn't believe him.
Vera is in the café today and tells Adam that she used to work with his mum at the jeans factory. She was a lovely lady. Ken wants to know what Mike said to Adam. He then tells him that Susan didn't want him to know Mike and neither does he. If he speaks to him, he doesn't have to answer.
Candice goes over to Jason's table. They sit and smile at each other.
Vik is waiting for Karen when she leaves the factory and tells her what Steve said. She brazens it out and says that Steve told against her in case she told the truth, ie he tried it on and she left. She hadn't wanted to say anything because they have the business together. Vik storms off.
Mike goes into the shop and Deirdre can tell he's not really there for the milk. He wants to know how Adam took meeting him today but Deirdre didn't know about it. He doesn't mind being hated for something he's done, but he does mind when it's over a lie. What can he do about it when Ken hates the sight of him?
Candice tells Sarah she's asked Jason out. But she's still seeing Darren. She'll see how tonight goes and then decide.
Deirdre gets home and Ken goes out for fish and chips. He tells her how he rescued Adam from Mike earlier. And how long will you keep doing that? As long as it takes. Once he's gone, Deirdre mentions Mike to Adam and he responds, he's a creep. I'll never forgive him for what he did when I was a baby. Deirdre remarks there are usually two sides to a story but he continues. He ignores me my whole life and walks back in when it suits him. He never wants to see Mike again. Deirdre explains that Mike didn't abandon Adam. That was just a story of Susan's. She didn't tell Mike about you, he didn't even know you existed til a few weeks ago.
At Streetcars, Vik tells Steve that Karen has told him the truth. It's over; the business, the friendship, the lot.
Kathy Brown
Hello! Another week has come and gone and although I'm still in denial about Samia Ghadie and Alan Halsall moving in together (it was a work experience mistake!!) I've got myself together to bring you the Friday night update..
We open tonight in the Peacock household. Maxine is reading a book on how to get a baby. She says she has missed a vital chapter and says that Ashley needs to "keep cool" just as much as she does. She says she doesn't want him to wear Y-fronts anymore and that he will wear boxers from now on. She tells him to go have a shower, he refuses and she then tells him to go and stand outside in his dressing gown. He reluctantly agrees to do so.
At Streetkars, a tired Steve is still in control of the radio. He has been there all night. Vikram comes in, Steve suggests he is late but Vik says that the partnership is over. Vik says that he is also moving out of the flat. Steve asks what will become of the business as he can't afford to buy Vik out.
In the Barlows Ken is still persuading Deirdre with the idea of moving to Glasgow to get away from Mike and to have a fresh start. Deirdre tells Ken that she's told Adam the truth about Mike. Ken doesn't like this and says that Adam won't like the fact that his mother has told him yet more lies.
Outside, Ashley is stood in the drive way wearing just his dressing gown. He holds the dressing gown open and turns around. However, Charlie Ramsden is emptying her bin and gets a full view of Ashley's manhood
Mike and Susan are sat on the car outside the solicitors. Mike says that he just wants to go and get Adam now, Linda disagrees saying that Mike will win custody anyway. He thanks her for saying that.
Ken is sat with Adam, he asks the young lad what he feels about what Deirdre said. Adam asks why everyone hates his dad. Deirdre says that everyone doesn't hate him. When Adam leaves the room, Ken says that he is going to the solicitors and that Adam needs a secure and loving home.
In the factory, Steve barges in and demands to know why Karen has been lying about what happened between him and her. Linda hears the commotion and threatens to throw Steve out. Steve leaves the factory and meets Vik outside. Vik questions why he was in the factory and he says that Dev was right - Steve is a loser.
On the bench, Steve and Candice are discussing Candice's date, Candice says that it went really well. They see the new Platt lodger Sam coming down the street, Candice asks to be introduced!
At the solicitors, Ken tells the solicitor that Mike will contest the application from Ken for custody of Adam.
In the Rovers, Doctor Ramsden winds Ashley up about the incident this morning. After winding Ashley up, Matt says he is only joking and the two agree to go to the football match together tomorrow. Ashley then asks Matt if the two of them want to come round for a dinner party that evening.
Dev meets up with Vik. Vik tells his older brother the problems he has been having with Steve. Dev says that he has lost enough money already and agrees to buy Steve out.
Mike Baldwin comes in happy and tells Linda at the bar that his solicitor said that he was married to Susan when Adam was born and that he is therefore the father. He still has reservations about if Adam likes him or not.
Ashley tells Maxine that he has invited the Ramsdens' around to their dinner party tonight.
Meanwhile, Vik has bought the drinks. He is happy that Dev has decided to buy Steve out. The two drink to the start of a new partnership and the end of the Vik-Steve partnership.
At the solicitors, the solicitor says to Ken that seeing as Adam has current residency that that will work in his favour but he has reservations about Ken and Deirdre not being married.
At the Platts, Sarah Lou says that her and Candice have first ride on the car that Sam and David Platt have been working on. Despite David's outbursts against this, Sam suggests that Gail gets the first refusal for letting him stay there. Sarah-Lou asks if Sam can stay for lunch, Gail agrees and Candice teases him about his second occupation as a stripper.
At the Peacocks, the meal has ended and Curly and Emma are getting ready to show the others their wedding video. Charlie and Matt aren't too keen, Emma suggests that they play the drinking game that they got for Christmas. That gets a better response from the guests who agree a boys vs. girls game!
At Streetkars, it's Eileen's home time. Steve asks her to stay but Eileen refuses saying that she's taking Dennis for a curry, she suggests that he makes up with Vik. Vik and Dev come in. Dev offers Steve 12,000 to buy his half. Vik says that he will do everything to see that the business goes into the ground if he refuses the offer. Dev hands the papers over and says that Steve has until tomorrow or he will withdraw his offer.
At the Peacocks, the drinking game has started. Much to Maxine's dismay, Charlie and Emma are getting along well. Charlie jokes about the incident with Ashley in the morning. Maxine retreats to the kitchen with Ashley saying that the dinner party is a disaster and that everyone is getting along apart from her. She says that because everyone is drinking, she fears she will never get pregnant.
Ken returns from the solicitors. Deirdre says that despite what he is doing, Mike is bound to fight for residency. Ken asks for her help with his case saying that the judge would consider a married couple to be a better option then if they go about it them just living together. Deirdre has reservations and is shocked when Ken asks her to marry him again
Phil Spink
No distractions this evening but early warning that next week's Sunday update may run a little late as we are out for the day. Sadly the "Best of Both Worlds" a BBC1 programme is delaying production of these updates at present.
Anyway events in Weatherfield are provided by ITV Television and sponsored by Cadburys Flake
Written by Peter Whalley and directed by David Kester.
At the StreetCars office Vik is asking Eileen to pass Steve a message pointing out that Steve is unreliable in business, with money and cannot be trusted with women. As Steve arrives Vik leaves without talking too him. Eileen asks Steve for the truth and he admits that Karen came on to him, yes he fancied her but he said no - he would not do the dirty on his mate. Eileen believes him and is left pondering how to sort it out.
Round at the Barlows Adam is sent out to play so that Ken and Deirdre can discuss his proposal. Unromantic to say the least. Ken believes they will get married one day and he repeats that he loves her and tries to convince her to marry him. She is refusing to marry him simply to look good in court. Ken wants her to admit she does love him - can he have an answer?
Across at Peacock House Max is cuddling the cat and Ash is trying to convince her to join the football outing. Max does not like football and will not go. Matt arrives and says they are all off to the Rovers for a quick drink before departing. Matt reminds them that Charlie put it away last night. Ash leans over and kisses Max and then says "And you make sure my tea is on that table ready and waiting for when I get home or there is going to be trouble". If looks could kill Maxine would have had Ash spit roasted there and then but he apologises and tells her he was only joking. She does not see the joke.
Outside Adam and David are playing football in the Street when Mike and Linda arrive. Martin arrives to take David into town for a couple of hours but David is helping Sam. Mike comes over and takes Adam to see the factory.
Martin drops in and sees Gail and complains about David's attitude. Gail reveals that Sam is using the Platt's garage. The rubbish was cleared out to the tip. Martin asks after Sam's age - too old to be bothering with David asks Gail. Martin responds that perhaps he is too young to be bothering her and he leaves.
At Underworld Mike tells Adam about his job, making jeans with his mother and how he runs his business. (Adam was very busy this evening. Unless I am much mistaken he was also appearing as a young American in "Monarch of the Glen". I am not sure how good his Merkan accent was - the only time he spoke one of the family interrupted).
Down at the Rovers, Matt, Charlie, Ash and Norman are discussing the match. Charlie looks a little hungover. Kev has returned with a picture of Natalie's baby - Laura - which is duly shown round. Mike arrives with Adam who is being shown round his business empire and they go in the back after Linda stops Adam from pulling a pint. Linda promises a hamburger for lunch but Geena is not sure they have any available(!).
And next door Ken is still trying to talk Dreary into marrying him. He has run out of things to say - he wants to marry her. Dreary asks if it is what Adam wants. She also asks if Ken is trying to make up for packing off the children years before. Deirdre decides to put Ken out of his misery. She will not marry him now and not for these reasons. She wants it to be at the right time for the right reasons and not as part of his manoeuvres and arguments with Mike.
Back at StreetCars Karen arrives to see Vik and Steve returns from a job. Eileen decides to pop out for 10 minutes and asks Steve to take charge. She "deliberately" switches on the transmit button with an ashtray and leaves them to it. Steve and Karen commence discussing the recent events, just as Vik's fare pays up and he realises he can hear them on the radio (second time today that cab radio systems are plot devices - EastEnders used it as well). Steve accuses Karen of lying and she does not deny it - but Vik does not know and he is not going to know according to Karen - she is sticking to her story and if Steve loses out then that serves him right for turning her down.
And into the commercial break. Sadly Halifax have a new advert and the new singer's voice seems much weaker than the one we have had for the last month.
Vik arrives back and turns off the transmit button with Steve denying he turned it on. Vik tells Karen to get lost - he heard her lying and Vik apologises to Steve. Vik calls her a dirty rotten liar. She is also called a slag and then departs. Vikram offers his hand and he and Steve shake and smile on a resumed partnership.
Across at the Rovers Adam has eaten most of his burger and Mike is trying to convince Adam that he is not on his own. Does he want anything else to eat? Both Mike and Linda ask him. Linda asks Adam to come and see the flat - it is better than round here. Linda offers to take him shopping - there must be things he needs - no they have all been brought down from Scotland by Ken. Mike tells Adam about Ken's job. Adam looks distinctly unhappy.
At the corner shop Kev is just leaving as Sally arrives and he asks if he can see the gurls as he is not going to see Natalie until tomorrow. Sal agrees and then asks if he is going to see Natalie regularly. Kev is not sure - but Natalie has had few enough visitors and there are not many people Kev can go to see around the Street. Whilst they chat Vik arrives to hand back to Dev the money he had been given to buy out Steve. It won't be necessary as they have resolved their differences and Dev is told about Karen's duplicity. Dev reckons that Vik should still have taken this opportunity to get rid of Steve - the guy will always be a loser.
Back at the Barlows Ken has started worrying about Adam. Deirdre apologises - she wants to put things right but Ken is not prepared to accept the apology. She wants to heal the rift - but Ken is just considering her selfish.
At the Platts Sally is telling Gail about Kev's continued visits to Natalie. Sally reckons it is very odd - it is not his baby and just why is Kev running down to the Cotswolds. Gail suggests that Kev just likes babies and Sally admits it might be just that. The door bell goes and Ken asks after Adam. David relates what happened probably 3 - 4 hours earlier and Ken goes in search of Mike. Sally is wondering if Kev is angling for a future with Natalie and the baby and then she will dump him causing a new catastrophe in Kev's life (interjection by your reporter - just what concern is this for Sally given her relationships?).
At the Rovers Eileen gets a coke and a bag of crisps out of Steve as thanks for her earlier efforts. Eileen is thanked by Steve - who has done well out the events of the day - Vik has lost face and a girlfriend. (When will Steve add Karen to his bedpost?). Ken arrives and Linda tells him that Adam is in the back.
The football supporters are discussing the match - apparently they were good for five minutes and would be top of the league if the first five minutes were important. They have been joined by Emma at some point. Charlie suggests that there might be another local team that sometimes wins trophies but the boys say this would ruin the whole ethos. They have dreams, optimism and expectations. No silver in the trophy cabinet but a belief that things can only get better. (I believe that Manchester City languish near the bottom of the Premiership).
Ken tells Mike he did not expect his grandson to be on licensed premises (particularly given that the child experiment has ended no doubt). Ken puts an arm round Adam and escorts him out.
Max arrives - didn't she fancy the game asks Emma? Not her thing Maxine replies and anyway they always lose. Well says Emma it would not have been so bad if they had not let in three in the last ten minutes (sadly I do not think they were discussing just how Southampton managed to lose to Tranmere Rovers midweek - a crying shame if you ask me).
Max drags Ash to the bar and she gives him an earful for being left out. He had tried to persuade her to join them. Well says Max you did not try hard enough, and she has had a boring afternoon at home. Matters are not happy in the Peacock House.
Mike reflects on the afternoon - what lies might Baldwin be telling Adam now. Linda tells Mike to get his solicitor to get a move on and he agrees.
Adam, back at the Barlows, is not hungry and he goes upstairs. Ken and Deirdre start arguing. Dreary reminds Ken that Mike is Adam's father and she feels that Mike should get custody of the boy. Ken is stunned and cannot speak as the credits roll (10-4).
Legal point. I believe it is now called residency and not custody. Those with affinities for the a FOTWD called The Archers will know of a dispute over the long term residential location of Phoebe.
Nice to see Steve being honourable for a change - has he finally grown up as a result of the troubles with Jez and his father. It would be nice to think so.
K Richard Whitbread
Candice tells Sarah that she's given Todd a lovebite. She thinks he's a bit slow, he's not trying it on like her other dates havee,
Linda's brother Ryan is waiting at the factory door. Mike reads him the riot act to make sure he stays in line (Linda is wearing a zebra coat).
The Grimshaws interrogate Todd. He's put his collar up to hide the bite and they tease him and call him Elvis.
Adam is listlessly watching TV. Ken thinks it will be good for him to start school. Deirdre suggests he accompany her to the shop. They assure him he won't bump into Mike as he's at work and he can use Dev's computer.
Eileen tells the streetcar boys about Todd. He hasn't been out with anyone before and she's wondering if he can handle Candice. Steve says that Vik couldn't. Vik says she was better company than Karen. Eileen says the factory girls have lots of stories about her.
Ryan hasn't had a break yet and Linda points this out to Mike. Janice tries to tempt him with a cuppa. She wants to find out about the Sykes family, eg was Linda born hard-faced or did she learn it at baby clinic. Karen gets cross with them and reminds them that he buried his brother a few weeks ago.
Emma and Alma meet in the Rovers. Is she worried about the inquest? Yes, but she's trying not to let Norman see. Alma remembers she was terrified during the siege. So was Emma, but she had procedures to follow. Alma will always be grateful.
Eileen is now talking to Dennis about Candice. She's experienced and her best mate has a baby. Birds of a feather... Dennis thinks they're just kids and will only have a kiss and cuddle, but Eileen wants him to warn Todd about women's wiles. He'll be embarrassed if it comes from her. Dennis thinks Todd should be allowed to make his own mistakes but she insists.
Over in the café, Ryan is tucking into his lunch like a starving man. Linda is there too and they discuss her leaving home and Dean's death. They agree he didn't deserve it but she tries to show Ryan there's nothing he can do about it. He asks for Friday off so he can go to the inquest. Linda is also intending to go.
Deirdre finds Adam crying over the computer. (No, it's not because Windows has crashed again). He's missing his mum and doesn't want her to be dead. Deirdre tries to comfort him and assures him that she and Ken will do their best. Mike enters at this crucial time. Why's he upset? Why's he here? He insists that Adam needs him and overrides Deirdre's protests. Adam tells Mike that Ken said he would be too busy for him. Mike tells Deirdre to tell Ken that he's never too busy to be with his son.
Interval
Mike has taken Adam to the flat. He can go there any time. Did he live there with Susan? Why didn't they stay married? Mike tries to explain. When things started to go wrong, people interfered and things got in the way. Mike didn't appreciate Susan at the time. He should have tried harder. He gave up too soon. He never got to know Susan properly and now he wants to know Adam.
Candice and Todd are discussing Eileen's reaction. She sees them cuddling at the bus-stop and invites Candice for tea.
Linda arrives at the flat and sees Adam. They've been talking about golf. There's a lot of banter between Linda and Mike (showing Adam what a happy family they are) and they agree to go out for a meal.
Charlie has joined Emma and Alma discussing the inquest. Her view is that whether Emma was right or wrong, the police look after their own and she has nothing to worry about. This isn't really what Emma wants to hear.
Steve joins Karen at the bar and tries to apologise, but she sends him off with a flea in her ear. The factory girls comment that he was only trying to be nice. But she's really wound up. Some scumbag walks into a bar and offers to buy me a drink and you want me to marry him, just like Janice? Janice suggests Karen wonders why they all have families to go home at night, while she's still alone. The other girls look really shocked.
It's teatime at the Grimshaws and time for Dennis' chat with Todd. Your mam is worried you might...get in too deep. Todd isn't impressed.Finally they both agree that it's none of Dennis's business and they'll pretend he did the job as asked.
Mark returns Adam to the Barlows, just as Ken arrives. Adam enthuses about the flat. Mike leaves and reiterates that Adam can see him any time.
Steve has gone back to his place when Karen turns up. She wasn't impressed that he apologised in a pub where everyone was listening. She tries to call it quits but he insists that really he did nothing to apologise for. All he did was turn her down. She gets a bit stroppy and goes to the door but you can tell she really wants to stay and the show ends with them kissing passionately.
Kathy Brown
