In the back room of the Rovers, Eve is poring over recipe books to try to find a recipe for hot-pot, since Betty has gone to her son's (Gordon) to recuperate. Fred makes his usual quiet entrance and offers to cook the hot-pot himself, but Eve reckons if Betty can cook a good hot-pot, then she can too.

Roy's Rolls. Todd is waiting to be served when his loving brother, Jason, arrives. Todd leaves and is pursued outside by Sarah, who hears from him that he hates going home and is only tolerating Jason for his Mum's sake. Sarah offers solace to Todd - and adds that he can come round to her house later, for she'll be there on her own. Todd readily agrees, much to Sarah's delight.

Back inside the cafe, Curly and Emma are preparing to go to see the vicar about little Ben's impending christening. While chatting to Vera and Norris, Curly tells them both to keep a week on Sunday free, and Norris concludes that he's to be the godfather...

Back in the kitchen of the Rovers, Shelley and Geena try Eve's attempt at hot-pot, but they're not too impressed. Eve reaches for a bottle of Lee and Perrins' sauce to add some flavour to her concoction, which she thinks tastes the same as Betty's.

Candice meets the cheating Jason, who makes it clear that their night of passion meant nothing to him. Sarah arrives and she and Candice agree that they can do without the Grimshaw boys. Luke arrives and whisks Sarah off for a romantic lunch of butties and chips in the park. Candice is left on her own.

Les is cleaning his taxi and Eileen comes out of the office of Streetcars to ask him to pick up a fare - Mrs Wilding - just as Vik arrives in his taxi and claims the job. Eileen and Les' suspicions are aroused about this Mrs Wilding.

Lunchtime in the Rovers. Norris is regaling Shelley about godparents and how important they can be to a child's life. Geena brings Norris the hot-pot he ordered, but he finds it very unappetising, as does Jason, who orders a cheese sandwich instead. Fred arrives and is handed a hot-pot by Eve, who's very proud of her culinary skills. Fred tastes, and soon calls for a glass of water. Jason, waiting for his sandwich, tells Fred: "Well, let's see you finish it!" Eve stomps off, muttering that they can all starve. (Maybe the better option!)

In the Kabin, copies of The Gazette arrive and, once more, the 'have a go grannies' are on the front page, this time for having made an attack on their journalist. Norris finds a gift catalogue on the shelves which takes his interest.

Dev comes into the office of Streetcars, to find Eileen and Les speculating about this elusive Mrs Wilding. Les' mind goes into top gear and imagines a scenario where both Vik and Steve are enjoying the charms of this Mrs Wilding; when, he wonders, will it be his turn?

Back in the Kabin, Rita decides to go and confront the editor of The Gazette. Norris offers to go with her, which offer is rejected. Blanche reminds Rita that, were it not for 'our generation', we'd all be wearing jackboots!

In the Rovers, Vik arrives, only to be tackled by Les as to his morning's work and Les goes on to expound his theory about Vik and Steve's little 'siestas' with Mrs Wilding. Vik threatens Les with a p45 if he ever mentions this again.

In Roy's Rolls, Emma and Curly are back from the church, and they ask Vera if she and Jack would care to be the godparents of Ben. Of course, Vera is delighted, and is roped-in immediately for baby-sitting that very evening. Norris arrives clutching a catalogue of christening gifts, and Curly and Emma realise that he's concluded, wrongly, that he's to be the godfather.

Gail's house. Sarah, all doe-eyed, sits beside Todd on the sofa and they discuss Candice. Todd is still smarting from his experience but Sarah assures him that not all girls are like that. Todd tells her that 'all the decent girls have been taken', but he excludes Sarah from this. (How more cosy can this get, we wonder...)

In the office of Streetcars, Eileen suggests to Les that they have a drink together after work, but Les has to decline - he has a date with Sandra. (Poor Eileen - imagine being turned down by Les Battersby!)

In the Watts' house, Emma and Curly are talking about how to explain to Norris that he isn't going to be Ben's godfather, when there is a knock at the door. Yes, it's Norris, and Curly cannot bring himself to tell him the truth, but instead invites him to give a reading at the church at Ben's christening. Norris twitters delightedly and goes off to an exciting evening looking for an appropriate reading. (Reminds me of St John ch.15, v.16!!)

Chez Les. He's all dressed-up and raring to go, when the phone rings. Sandra. She has to work, she explains, and the disconsolate Les takes off for the pub.

Back at Gail's house, where Sarah gets increasingly tactile and warm towards Todd, just as Candice arrives and finds the pair. Todd leaves right away, leaving Candice and Sarah to have a row about boys, and Todd in particular. Sarah doesn't admit to fancying Todd, yet...

In the Rovers, Les props up the bar with Eileen and suggests a curry. She agrees. Eve asks the advice of Geena and Shelley about future pub grub. While Geena favours Thai and Mexican food, Shelley prefers traditional meals, and Eve decides that they should take turns at preparing the food. Shelley will start tomorrow. Rita has been to see the editor of The Gazette and there will be no more stories about the 'battling grannies'. Norris is still wondering about Rita'a age, but Rita warns him that there may very well be another unprovoked attack if he continues this conjecture...

Vik is having a quiet meal in his flat when Dev arrives to advise him of his wayward ways. Vik's mobile displays a text message from Hazel, who wants to see him again soon. Contrary to Dev's advice and dire warnings, Vik declares that he's 'having the time of his life'.

In the Rovers, Shelley and Geena discuss whose menus will be the more popular and a 20 bet is agreed. Sandra arrives. She has persuaded someone to cover for her, so she and Les go off for a meal together, leaving Eileen dumped, for the second time today, by Les. With Vera baby-sitting Ben, Curly and Emma get the chance to have a quiet drink, but they're soon arguing about Emma's plan to go back to work in the police force, while Curly gives up his job to look after Ben full-time...

Iain McDougall

StreetCars get a call from Hazel Wilding to pick her up. Vik is not around. Les goes round and fancies his chances. She is still in her dressing gown when he arrives, and of course he gets the wrong idea. He tells her that he understood she was gagging for it. When she finally meets up with Vik she is understandably annoyed and walks out on him. Vik manages to persuade her to stay, and says he will deal with Les when he sees him. What he said was untrue.

Shelley and Gina are in competition at the Rovers to provide the food while Betty is away. Shelley wants to make some traditional food, while Gina wants something more exotic. They agree to prepare the food on alternate days. So Shelley creates "Penaculty" (?), which Gina calls Corned Beef hash. Shelley is having a difficult time persuading customers to buy it. When Peter comes in he is persuaded to have a large portion.

Norris finds out that Jack and Vera and Kevin have all been asked to be godparents to Emma and Curly's baby. He is upset at only having been asked to do a reading at the church. Rita thinks he would have made a good godparent. She goes round to see the Watts, without Norris' knowledge. She persuades them to ask him as well. When they do ask him he is delighted.

Curly tells Emma that they haven't got a replacement for him at work. He wonders if she has thought of giving up work instead. He doesn't want to tell her that he does not want to remain at home all day looking after the baby.

Martin says to Sally that they seem to have so little time together. She says she will ask Kevin to look after the girls one night so that she and Martin can be together.

Martin goes round to Gail's to take David out. Sarah is very depressed. Martin works out that she has boyfriend trouble. She is wondering whether to drop Luke in favour of one of Eileen's sons (not sure which one!).

Vik goes round to see Les. He threatens that if he goes near Hazel and bothers her again, he will be sacked.

Gina has brought ingredients for the food. She is not telling anyone what it is until she has finished making it.

Emma tells Sally that she is going to miss the baby when she goes back to work.

Dev continues to tell Vik that he is still being stupid still going out with Hazel.

Sarah and Luke meet on a bench but she can't bring herself to tell him that she doesn't like him anymore.

Les tells Eileen in the pub about Hazel. He is overheard by Vik and he gets very annoyed with him again.

Gina has prepared the food. Dev thinks it is very nice. Fred doesn't think much of the sausage. Shelley manages to persuade Eileen and Les not to buy any of the food.

Martin rings Sally to check that everything is ok for that evening. She confirms that Sally has agreed to look after the girls.

Emma is feeding her baby with a bottle. She explains it is not as good as the "real thing" but it is something that Daddy can't provide. [Editor's aside - if I knew then, what I know now - I wouldn't have been bottle fed!!!]

Eve decides that there has to be an end to the two girls "fighting" over the food. They will do without hot food until Betty comes back.

Luke comes round to see Sarah. She tells him that it is over between the. He goes storming out of the house, being chased by Sarah.

Martin hasn't turned up for dinner. Sally calls his mobile number but there is just an answering message. She leaves a message ot tell him to hurry over.

Gail receives a phone call. She exclaims, and comes rushing out of the house. She tells Sarah to tell Sally. Martin is in hospital having been beaten up by thugs.

Martin Rosen

(Written By: David Lane Directed By: John Anderson)

Tonight's episode starts with David and sarah walking to school when David notices Sally coming back in her car with Martin who had been attacked last night, they both go over to see if he is all right and david is glad that he is and Sarah tells him he had gail worried and he tells them both should they not be at school so they go. Kevin then comes up the street with Rosie and Sophie and he asks Martin if he has been in a fight and Sally tells him he has been attacked at work and she offers to take te girls to school. Kevin tells her he will do it and he is sorry to hear about Martin.

In number 7, Curly has sent Emma for a day out in town, but before she goes she tells him there are bottles made up and three spare outfits up stairs and there are some in the wash basket. Curly asks her why would he need more than three and Emma tells him she does not know but in case he is sick and Curly tells her Ben and him are fine and the only person who is not fine is Emma and she tells him she is just worried and he sends her out till after 6pm and Emma tells him 5 and he tells her they had a deal and she says bye to Ben and leaves.

In the Rovers, Fred asks Eve what she is putting on for dinner and she tells him bam cakes as she thinks it would be best, Fred tells her that anything is better than ""Tweedle dum and Tweedle dee" he then asks if that is enough glasses as he has to be at the abetour at half past and Eve then tells him it is all glammer with him. Betty then comes in Eve and red are very glad to see her and they both tell her it has been like menu wars since she has been away and Fred then asks is she sure she has not come back too soon and Betty tells him she would have gone made if she had stayed away any longer.

At number 13, Sally comes through with a cup of tea for Martin and she asks him how he is feeling, he tells her like he has had a bang on the head and Sally tells him she still can't believe it happened and Martin tells her occupational hazard he supposes and that gail always told him she could not sleep when he was on nights. Sally tells him she must have been really worried last night as she sent Sarah while she rushed off to see you and Martin tells her it looked a lot worse than it was but you can not take chances with head injuries. Sally then asks how long was he unconscious for and Martin tells her he can not remember as he was unconscious and Sally tells him she is glad he can joke about it. Sally also tells him has he got any idea how she felt waiting for him then Sarah comes round to tell me that you are in the hospital and Gail is all ready on her way to see you and gail could have come and told me herself. Martin then tells her he does not see any problem.

In the cafe, Todd is buying lunch when Sarah comes in and says hello to Todd and then she orders an Orange Aid and a muffin then she asks him if he has seen Luke this morning, Todd tells her no why and Sarah tells him she has finished with him Todd tells her about time and she really wants him to say yes he has and he had been crying. Les then comes in and asks Toyah if she remembers Sandra and Toyah tells him yes she does. Les then tells Sandra that the food in here has to be better than the Rovers at the moment so what would she like? Sandra tells him a coffee and he orders Sausage and Chips. Over at another table, Sarah tells Todd she just got board and he tells her he is surprised not sooner as he has sacks more personality than Luke Ashton and that they should pair him up with Candice, Sarah tells him that Candice is not boring and he should know he went out with her for long enough. Todd tells Sarah we all make mistakes and she tells him to forget them and asks if he fancies going out for a pizza tomorrow night and he excepts greatfully. Emma then comes in looking lost and Toyah asks her what the matter is and she tells her she has left Ben with his dad, but is finding it really difficult to stay out all day and Toyah tells her most mums would jump at the chance.

Over at number 7, Emma has phoned from the cafe and tells Curly that she does not know how long she will be and might not stay put all day, Curly tells her they are fine and he has only dropped him the once and tells emma he is joking. Curly then tells ben although he is none of the wiser that he will take him down the Red wrecklatter on.

Back in the Rovers, Janice has ordered a hotpot and Betty then tells Eve that they are not that busy and Eve tells her that no one knew she was back and the food they have been serving has been turning them away in hundreds. Betty is surprised and tells Eve she can not get over it and fred then tells her that her mum would be so proud to know that the meal pulls them in from far and wide and Betty tells him she would not as she never like public houses and would never go in. Les then comes in for a pint and asks Janice if she wants one she declines his offer and asks him how his girlfriend is and les tells her she is fine and he is doing her a meal tonight, Janice is surprised. Fred tells ashley that it is not just a hotpot it is a little gold mine and Ashley tells him he knows and it rings in the punters, Fred tells him only when Betty is here and Ashley tells him it is because it is Betty's Hotpot Fred tells him it is the Rovers Hotpot by rights and it makes this pub stand out from all others. Ashley asks if he is thinking of giving Betty a rise but Fred tells him no but if he could get the recipe Fred then tells Ashley who is surprised that what would happen if betty could not come into work and Ashley tells him you mean died and Fred tells him well sort of yes, he tells him that her mother's recipe would be lost to mankind and Ashley tells him also the pub. Fred then tells him but if they could sell it in the shop and at Fresco it would live on and Ashley is surprised.

INTERVAL

Out on the street, Emma goes to see Kevin and asks him if he has seen Curly and Ben, he tells her he saw them about half an hour ago on the Red Reck and he asks her why. Emma tells him she rang earlier and then on his mobile and could not get any reply. Kevin asks if she wants him to go around and he tells Emma that she should go and enjoy her day and he will check latter and Emma thanks him.

Back at number 13, Rosie tells martin he can stay here if he wants and Sally tells her that they have not talked about it and Martin might prefer to stay at David's house. Gail then comes in and asks how he is and asks sally if he is driving her mad, Martin tells her he has felt better. Gail then asks David if he is going to football practice and David asks martin if he minds and he tells him no and Sally sends the girls off to get changed. Martin then asks what is all the stuff about Martin might be better over at David's and Sally tells him she thought he may just want to be with his family she then tells Gail that she could have come over and told her and Gail tells her that Martin had head injuries and he tells her he would have phone but he was bleeding all over A&E and he has forgotten to change his next of kin forms. Gail then leaves and martin tells sally he is sorry and it is her he loves Gail is history.

Back in number 7, Kevin remarks on the smell and Curly hands Ben to him, Kevin then asks what the music is for and Curly tells him he is introducing Ben to all things cultural and when he is older he will remember the music and the good times with his dad. He then asks Kevin what he wants and Kevin tells hi m nothing just popped in to see if he needed anything for the christening and Curly tells him no and kevin asks where Emma is and Curly tells him out on the town till six.

Out on the street, Jason bumps into Maria and asks how she is and she tells him like it is any business of his, he then apologizes again for what happened with candice and Maria tells him she does not really care how sorry he is but he was well out of order and she then turns round and Candice is there and Maria tells her she never said thanks and candice asks what for and she tells her for showing me what a rat he is. Jason asks what she wants and Candice tells him if he is at a loose end he could always ask her out, Jason says yea but Candice tells him then again she would rather stick pins in his eyes and walks off.

Back in the Rovers, Emma is glad to see kevin and asks what he wants to drink and she takes it they are all right, Kevin tells her she knew they would be and Emma tells him why does she does she find that a bit disappointing but kevin tells her not to knock it. Over at the other side of the bar, Ashley asks Fred if he has had a chance to speak to Betty yet and Fred tells him no he is biding his time, he then tells Ashley if he was just to pop to the kitchen to see what she was using ingredients wise there may be no need to raise the subject. Les and Sandra then come in, Les orders a pint and a half and Sandra asks if janice is always in and Les tells her it might be lonely in the flat and he then turns and asks if she would like a drink but she tells him no as she is just going and Sandra tells her so is Les and me he is cooking me a meal she asks what he is cooking he tells her nothing when there is a perfectly good chippy at the end of the street.

Back in the Cafe, Candice sneaks up on Sarah and shouts hard worker and Sarah tells her if she goes home her mum will make her look after Bethany and Candice tells her it does not even have to be in tomorrow and Sarah tells her that she wants to get ahead. Candice then tells her that she put Jason is his place and she loved it and she blew him out and it will be a million years till she gets back with another lad. Sarah asks her she still does not want to get back with Todd and Candice tells her no she has done that why and Sarah tells her they are going out for a pizza tomorrow night and she asks Candice if she minds and she says no. As she leaves she knocks over a glass.

Back in the kitchen in the Rovers, Fred is looking around to see what Betty puts in the hotpot when Betty comes in he tells her that he is looking for a pair of Eve's earrings and betty tells him she never said anything to her and Fred says maybe she has found them. Betty asks why would she leave them in the kitchen and Fred tells her he does not know he is just a male. Fred then puts the kettle on for Betty and tells her that they both have something in common and Betty asks what and Fred tells her they are both believers in good old english food and he is famous for his Cumberland Ring and she is Famous for her Hotpot, he then goes on to say that for the sake of prosperity he has given his recipe to Ashley. Betty then tells him that is his game and tells him that the recipe is only thing stopping him getting rid of her so if he thinks he is going to get his hands on it hard luck. Fred then goes to make the tea.

Back at number 7, Curly is making the dinner for him Emma and Ben, he then goes to change Bens nappy and the phone rings it is one of his council friends and he asks if he can phone him back. Emma then comes in and she asks where Ben is and Curly tells her on the floor she rushes over to find Ben covered in Talcum powder and she sits him up, then she asks Curly if she can smell something burning and he remembers about the pan on the cooker and she tells Ben it is a good job mum is back. Curly then tells her a moment ago everything was fine and Emma tells him she knows Kevin said and Curly can not get over that Kevin has been a coppers nark and grassed him up.

In number 5, Sandra is surprised when there is only one can of beer between two she asks Les why he is not having one to himself and he tells her it is so he can drive her home. Sandra tells him she is not bothered about that and she also tells him not to worry over Janice and Les agrees as the fish and chips are going cold.

Back at number 13, Sally tells Martin that the kids are watching Strek again and she is surprised they have not worn the video out they have watched it that much. Martin then tells her it is good to hear kids running around up stairs as he forgot he missed it so much. Sally tells him any time he wants to swap she will do it gladly and Martin tells her no as she is part of the equation and he might have got his head caved in, but it means he spend the night with her and he asks if she wants him to go to Gail's and Sally tells him he would not get halfway across the road.

Back at number 5, Sandra tells Les she thought he was going to drive her home and les tells her he will get her a taxi after Sandra tells him that she has had a lovely night. Sandra then asks Les don't you want me to stay he is surprised and she tells him he still has his head full of Janice. Les tells her he has not and she tells him there is only one way she can stop him thinking about her. They kiss and that is how the episode ended. This email was sent by:

Gareth Chess

Written By Peter Whalley

Sarah is meeting Todd at half past six for a pizza, but has no babysitter. Gail says she's doesn't finish work till 7pm, and if she explains, she's sure he'll understand , and they can meet later. Sarah is in a tizz, she say's she can't, and rings Audrey and ask if she'll baby-sit.

Les and Sandra are kissing goodbye. He says if he had his way he wouldn't let her go, she tells him she'll be back tonight, but she must get off to work. Janice and Karen watch them canoodling from the front of Baldwin's. Karen asks how will Janice feel if Sandra moves in, Janice replies 'happy'. It's Emma 's first day back at work, and she ask Curly if she's being fair. She says she'll not look back, but she does. Curly goes to see Martin . Martin confides that physically he's alright, but emotionally he's a wreck. The hospital had phoned Gail and not Sally. He later goes to see Gail and tells her the details have been put right, she'll not be bothered again. She tells him that she'll always care.

Fred is waiting for Betty, he's still after the hotpot recipe. Betty refuses to give it to him. He tells her they haven't talked about loyalty, team work, everyone pulling together. He tells her when she's not there they are all in a mess. Betty says' she'll make extra for those occasions and they can freeze it. Eve wants to know what is going on. Fred says he's wants to produce it commercially, but not call it Betty's Hotpot. Eve says if he was only honest with Betty. Eve tells Betty that Fred want to mass produce her hotpot, Betty says she nearly gave into him, and later, Eve can't understand when Betty gives Fred the recipe to him. When Eve queries it, all Betty will say is that she gave him a recipe for hotpoint, not the one he was after though!

Sally asks Martin if he wants to go back to A&E, and he says yes,and jokingly comments that everytime he gets bashed up, he'll be able to recuperate at Sally's.

Eileen gives Les a message that Sandra can't make it tonight,but she'll ring him tomorrow. Eileen asks Les will man the fort till closing time in 10 mins, and she'll nip of to the shops. Les says willingly, and comes over the radio asking Vik where he is, as he draws up at the Wilking house. But it's not Hazel that wants a taxi, it's Mr Wilding. Vik places him in the back seat, just as Les is blathering across the channel for Vik to hear about what a lucky fellow he is with Mrs. Wilding. Mr Wilding gets out of the taxi and ask Vik if his wife uses this firm all the time, and wants to know Vic's name.

Sarah is running late, as Audrey comes babysitting late. David pipes up that Todd will probably have gone off to play football with the lads by now, but Todd is still waiting, as Sarah apologises, ad Audrey screams up the street that it's her fault Sarah is late. Eileen comes along, and ask Todd if his homework is done, and Todd sys they are just going for a pizza. In they walk to the restaurant,and Janice and Karen wave across asking if they are on date. Todd says what is it about this place, it's only a pizza after all. Todd is quiet, and Sarah asks if everything is OK? He retorts that he doesn't need looking after, Eileen thinks he needs looking after and Candice, and Sarah has been pushed into going out with him. Sarah says that it's not true. Todd in a right strop, says that girls are all the same at school, who's been out with Todd this week? well none of them, and off he goes! In the restaurant Janice spots Sandra with a bloke, they are holding hands and gazing across the table at one another. Janice asks Karen what should she do, tell Les , or keep her mouth shut.

A rainy morning in Weatherfield and Les meets Janice as they go to their respective work places. Janice expresses her concern that Les is getting too serious about Sandra, the recent love of his life, but Les tells her not to worry - he's happy. Sarah comes out of her house to meet Candice, just as Todd comes out of his and ignores both of them. Sarah admits to Candice that her date with Todd last night at the pizza parlour was less than successful, Candice taking this to mean that poor Todd isn't over her yet.

Vik and Les have a spat about Les' spiel on the taxi radio last night. Les is once more threatened with getting fired. When Les hears that it was Mr Wilding in the cab, and not Mrs Wilding, he enjoys the news to the full. Vik points out to Les that some men can't keep their wives happy - a common complaint... Les' laughter subsides.

Martin has again stayed the night at Sally's. Martin tries to tempt Sally back to bed, but she has a business to run, so she again reminds her lover that she's worried about his continuing job in A&E. Martin assures Sally that, if he's going to be late from work, he'll phone her. Kisses, and Sally goes off to work.

Fred is busy in his butcher's shop making up a sign promoting hot pot, which he believes will be a little gold mine for him. Ash calls Fred a cheat, ripping off an old lady for his personal gain.

In the Kabin, Janice meets up with Toyah and she lets her know of having seen Sandra with some other bloke in the pizza parlour. Should Les be told? Best not, according to Janice. Curly arrives with Ben, and reminds Norris of the big day on Sunday - Ben's christening. Norris is very aware of his responsibility towards Ben; after all, with Jack and Vera's track record of parenting, all moral guidance will fall to Norris. Remember Terry...?

Vik offloads his worries, about Hazel's not returning his calls, to Dev, who reminds his love-lorn cousin that he should have enjoyed the moment, and then walked away, as he would have done when he was younger. (Dev obviously has short-term memory loss about Deirdre!)

In Gail's house, Candice and Sarah are discussing boys, and Todd in particular. Candice is annoyed when Sarah lets her know of Todd's attempted kiss last Christmas - she's sick of lads. (Well, today, anyway!) However, Candice has seen this gorgeous red dress which she must have, if only to show Todd what he's missing - when Todd sees her in this dress, he'll crawl back... Oh yeh?

In the Rovers, Janice tells Eve and Betty about Fred's selling take-away hot pot from his shop and Eve and Betty exchange knowing looks - Fred is 'at it'. Martin has been at his flat and he's brought a bunch of mail which he's collected. How long will it take for him to move in with Sally? He's ready, but is Sally? Vik continues to phone Hazel, but no reply. Les and one of his fellow-drivers talk about Vik's 'bit of totty'. Toyah arrives and Les is keen for her and Sandra to get to know each other, but for how long can Toyah remain silent about Sandra's apparent dalliance?

Fred's shop. Eve storms in and accuses Fred of cheating an old lady. Norris appears and is invited to taste the hot pot. Both he and Fred cough and splutter at the taste and resort to drinking copious amounts of water to counter the effect.

In the Rovers, Norris downs a pint of water in one go, and also threatens legal action against Fred. Betty seems amused. Martin asks about who is making the hot pot in the pub these days...

Back in Fred's shop, he realises that he's been sabotaged - too much cayenne pepper and paprika.

In the cafe, Todd meets Sarah, but he thinks that Sarah has just felt sorry for him. Jason looks on with pity at Todd's idiocy with girls. Toyah tells Janice that she's going round to Les' for tea. Should she tell what she knows? No - maybe Janice has made a mistake.

In the back room of the Rovers, Fred is bemoaning the treachery which he's suffered, but Betty lets him know that everyone now knows what a scoundrel he is, including Eve.

Todd comes home, and meets Jason who's working on his motor-bike. Jason tells his brother a few home truths, including that Sarah fancies him and he should do something about it.

Back in the Rovers, Vik is with Dev and still worried that he's never heard from Hazel. Les and his fellow-driver overhear their chat, and think he should be taken down a peg. Eve tells Fred that the only secret about Betty's hot pot is that she's a great cook, that's all. Vik's mobile rings. Mr Wilding? (Les and his pal are winding Vik up from a phone box just across the street.) 'Mr Wilding' wants to see Vik right away at the taxi office to sort things out. Vik pales visibly, and he leaves, closely followed by Dev.

Vik and Dev arrive at Steetcars, but there's no sign of Mr Wilding. Les and his pal come around the corner and admit the 'joke'. Vik is not amused, and fires both the drivers. (How many times a week is Les fired by Vik?)

In Sally's house, Martin tells her that there have been new security measures in A&E, so not to worry. Sally worries. Meanwhile, their dinner is getting cold.

Les is entertaining Toyah at his house. Sandra can't be there, he says, for she has to visit someone, and Toyah blurts out the information that Sandra is seeing someone else...

Todd arrives at Sarah's to say how sorry he is for the way he treated her. After some toing and froing, they both admit to fancying each other and the inevitable wet and noisy snog ensues.

Les continues to deny Toyah's allegations and eventually learns that it was Janice who spotted Sandra with someone else, not Toyah. That would explain everything, Les says. Janice is jealous.

Iain McDougall

(Written By: David Lane Directed By: John Anderson)

Last Nights episode started in number 7 as it is the day of Bens christening, Emma tells Curly at least Ben will not have any nerves while she is getting Ben ready for his big day, there is then a nock at the door it is Ashley and Maxine with a present for Ben and Maxine tells Ben she hopes he bought Emma a Mothers Da card and Emma tells her she completely forgot. Curly then comes through while Emma is telling Maxine she has been busy she tells Curly she will need to get a card at the Kabbin for her mum and Curly tells her Ben did not forget and emma is happy.

At Number 5, Les is just sitting down to his breakfast when Toyah comes in he asks her what she wants and she tells him she wanted to see if he was all right, Les tells her he is fine as she can see Toyah tells him that is good. Les then tells her that she can go and tell Janice that her little scam did not work. Toyah tells him he does not know what he is talking about and that Janice did not make it up and she did not tell him as she did not want to hurt him and spoil it for him and Les tells her that is what she told you and then you come round here doing her dirty work for her. Toyah tells him she gives up and Les tells her good as maybe he can have his breakfast in piece.

In the back of the corner shop, Vic has come to see Dev who tells him "Hi Dustin have you heard from her yet", Vic tells him he has not heard from Hazel yet and Dev tells him that is good news and Vic asks him how can he say that and Vic tells Dev her husband could have done anything to her and he is going round there. Dev turns in shock and asks him to think this through as if anything had happened and she wanted him to know she would have phoned and Dev tells him just to wait.

At Number 1, Deirdree comes through to ask Ken and Blanche if they want a cup of tea, she tells Ken that it takes her back seeing him with a pile of essay books and a red pen. Ken has a cup of tea but Blanche declines as she tells Deirdree does she think that make it any better, Deirdree then apologizes and Blanche tells her Tracy remembered Mothers day and sent her a card. Deirdree then tells her she is sorry again and Blanche tells her after she had told Archie what a considerate daughter she was. Ken then tells Blanche that she should not need a card from Deirdree every year to tell you how much she cares about you as she shows you clearly enough all year round Blanche asks how? Deirdree then tells her putting up with you living here for a start and Blanche says I have to be put up with now do I and Deirdree tells her when she is like this she does and Blanche tells her when she is Disappointed because my own flesh and blood taken me for granted and Deirdree makes a remark. Ken then tells her why don't they take her out for a slap up lunch and Blanche tells him he can not buy her off that easily.

In the Cafe, Todd asks Jason why he has dragged him in here and Jason tells him he just though they could have a chat about the television, football, Sarah. Todd tells him he sees and Jason asks him how it went and he tells him all right he is meeting her latter on outside the chippy and Jason tells him that is what he calls romance, Todd then tells him he has no idea how long she has fancied her for and Jason tells him everything turned out sweet then and Todd tells him it does not mean he had any right getting off with Candice she was still his girlfriend. Les then comes in, he sees Janice sat at a table and goes up to her and tells her this is where you are hiding and Janice tells him she is having a cup of tea in a cafe, Toyah then shouts to Les there is no need to get mad at her mum and Les tells her to stay out of it. He then tells Janice that she ought to be ashamed of herself as her sick little lies are one thing but bringing Toyah in to it is below the belt Janice tells him she did not drag Toyah into anything and she also tells him if the truth be known she is not lying and she asks him why would she lie. Les tells her she knows why because she is jealous and she now has nothing.

Back in number 7, Vera tells Emma that Ben looks just like what Terry did they day they had him christened and Jack tells her look how he turned out. Kevin thanks Curly again for asking him to be god parent as he is really made up, Curly then tells Kevin that he can not kick a ball straight and who else is going to get him into training for City. Kevin is surprised and tells Curly he thought he would have his name down for next prime minister and Curly tells him he has to make his money first. Emma gives Ben to Vera and she tells Ben she hopes he is going to be good for his auntie in the church and Emma tells them he has been good most of the day so she wonders what he is saving up for. Norris then tells them there is no need to worry because if Ben does get a bit tetchy just pass him as the calming cool effect has never failed yet, Emily then tells him she is sure that Emma is quite capable of looking after Ben herself. Norris then tells Jack and Vera that he intends to be a very hand on god parent and Emma tells him that is good.

Out on the street, Sarah is waiting for Todd by the chip shop and is singing to Bethany to get her off to sleep, when she turns round and sees Todd she apologizes for singing and tells him her mum has gone out and she has to get her off to sleep and she asks Todd if he minds. Todd tells her no not at all and Sarah asks him is he sure he did not want to go to the pictures or anything and he tells her no he does not mind what they do. Todd suggests they could go for a walk or just sit here and chat. He then tells her he was chatting to jason about Candice, Sarah tells him she does not think he really meant it to happen and Todd tells her he recons he did him a favor nut he told him he better not do anything like that again. Sarah and Todd then kiss, Candice then comes along and shouts "Well don't mind me" they both turn round shocked and Candice tells them she thought Sarah had told them there was nothing going on between them. Sarah then tells her there was nothing going on to begin with, Todd then asks Candice what it has to do with her anyway and Candice tells him to shut up and keep out of it. Sarah then tells her she knew how she felt about him abd she did not hide anything from her and Candice tells her she is welcome to her as Sarah tells her to wait as she walks off. Todd then tells sarah to let her go as she is just unhappy because you have a boyfriend and she has not. Sarah then tells him she will probability pick up a boy by the time she gets to the end of Rosamound Street and they both laugh.

In the Rovers, Les is telling Ken he told Janice straight and fancy making up something like that just when I am starting to get my life back to together after everything she has put me through. Ken tells him he sees and then Les tells him that Sandra would not two time him and Ken then tells Deirdree they had better make a move and Deirdree tells Blanche to drink up. Blanche asks her why and ken tells her they are taking her for a slap up mothers day lunch and Blanche tells them they talked about it and she never said she would go, Ken tells her well the tables booked but Blanche tells them she is going out with Archie now and Ken tells her thoughtfulness goes both ways. Deirdree then tells ken they will go and have lunch as she is playing up because I did not get her a card, Blanche is annoyed but Deirdree and Ken both just walk out. Dev then comes in and sees Vic and asks him if he has been round to Hazels yet and Vic tells him no but he is going there now, Dev tells him that is a big mistake and then he gets a text message on his mobile to say that she is away at a health Spa and Dev tells him to stay and have a drink but he leaves. Geena then comes and she asks Dev what is up and he tells her that he had forgotten how stupid some people could get over love and she tells him love has never turned him stupid and he tells her no only romantic.

Sally and martin are sitting in a booth and Sally asks him if this suit looks all right for church and Martin tells her she could pass for an angel. Sally tells him she wishes she could have bought a new one and Martin tells her it is a bit late for that now as they are wetting the baby's head in 45 Minutes and Sally tells him she could not afford a new suit now anyway and martin tells her she has looked after him enough it is about time he started looking after her a bit more. Back at the bar, Les asks Dev how is it going with Vic's new fancy piece and Dev tells him he does not know as it is none of his business and neither yours. Les then tells him he has a lovely girl and she has great looks a great figure and works behind a bar and Geena tells him some guys have all the luck. Les then tells them they would have to go some to be luckier than him and Dev is surprised and asks how. Les tells them he thought he was finished when Janice left him but with Sandra he is the happiest he has ever been.

INTERVAL

Back in number 1, Deirdree asks what is happening and Blanche tells her she was just showing Archie some photographs of you when you were little, Deirdree says she has not seen them in years and Ken can not get over the size of her in one photo and then Blanche tells them a story about when they were in Blackpoll and Deirdree saw a Parrott and she would not be quiet till she had her picture taken with it and Deirdree tells them it took a big bite out of her and she cried . Archie then tells Ken there is nothing like it a mothers love for her daughter.

Out on the street, all the guests are back from the christening and Curly has ran forward to open the door. Norris is walking up the street with Curly's parents and they are both surprise to hear he was at the birth and Norris tells them it is a very nabourley street in an emergency and Curly and Emma tell them they were very grateful.l

Back in the Rovers, Suntia asks Geena if she sent her mum a card and Geena tells her she did not and she has been worrying about her all day as it is the first Mothers day she has ever missed. Suntia tells Geena not to worry as she is sure she will have got the message and Geena tells her that was the idea and she never thought she would fall out with her mum. Santia then tells her she sent a card to her mum as a piece offering and she thought she might ring but she has not. Over in a booth, toyah tells janice she is sorry she told les and she wishes she had kept her mouth shut. Janice tells her it is all right and Toyah tells her how would think you would lie about something like that and Janice tells her it is his pride and being dumped by two women is not very good for your ego, Toyah tells her he did not have to accuse you of lying though and Janice tells her she does not take it personally and Toyah says if she does not take it personally how come it looks as though you were going to smack him one in the cafe.

Back in number 7, Norris is telling Curly's parents that they could not get him off to sleep with out his calming influence, Curly's mum asks that is with you helping out at the birth and his dad asks if he has children of his own and Norris tells him no he was on the road a lot when he was younger. He then tells that Medicine is a hobby of his and that is why he was able to help. Curly tells Emma it is going well and Emma tells him as long as her uncle George does not start singing. Vera and Kevin go over to look at ben and Norris tells them if Ben should have any problem when he grows up and if they have any questions to go to him as he is chief god parent, Kevin tells him he is joking but Norris says no it is an obvious choice as these hand did bring him into the world. Vera then tells him his hands to do with delivering him into a clean nappy.

Out on the street, Archie puts his hand out for Blanche and she tells him there are not may gentlemen around these days and Archie tells her hey are a dying bread and there is no one better placed to know than me. Blanche then asks him if it ever bothers him doing the work he does but archie tells her no as it is like a pint of old English bitter savor every last drop. Further down the street Emily tells Norris that was lovely and asks him if he would like a nice cup of tea, Norris tells her no as he is just popping home to get his photo album and coming back to show Curly's parents pictures of me and little Ben. Blanche then asks Emily how the christening was and she tells them it was delightful and Curly and Emma were glowing with pride as indeed was Norris and Norris tells them he is chief god parent as they wanted someone with noble stout. Archie then asks Emily if she has any children and she tells him she did not have children and Blanche tells her she has Norris.

Over at streetcars, Vic asks Les if he would mind doing a job fore him, but Les tells him he can't as he has the most beautiful girl in the world coming round and Vic tells him to enjoy himself while John Wilding looks on from behind a wall.

Back at Number 7, Curly's mum asks Curly if he will be over soon to see them and he tells them both if not next weekend then the weekend after, Norris then bursts in and tells them they are not going are they as he has just brought his photo album and Curly's dad tells them they are as they have a long way to go and they want to miss the traffic and Norris tells them nice meeting you. Emma then tells him Ben is apsiloutlry shattered so it is about time for him to go to bed, Norris offers to take him up but Emma tells him he has done enough and Martin tells Sally they should go as well Emma thanks them all for coming and Sally escorts Norris out behind Martin. They all flop on to the sofa and breathe and sigh of relief.

Back at number 5, Les is glad to see Sandra and asks her how she is she tells him she is fine and Les tells her all the better for seeing her, Les then tells her he could not believe how poisonous Janice could be and Sandra asks if it was about her and Les says yes but he did not believe a word as she is just jealous. Sandra then asks him what she said and Les tells her she says she saw you out with another man and he tells her he told her straight and he asks her if she would do it to him and there is silence.

At Streetcars, Vic tells Veron an address over the radio and then John Hazels husband says hello.

Back at number 5, Sandra tells Les she was going to tell him and she was just waiting for the right time, Les then tells her Janice was telling the truth and that he trusted Sandra and now she has made him look a right idiot and she says sorry and she was not two timing him it is her x he wants to get back with her. Les tells her that she is dumping him for someone who dumped her in the first place and Sandra then tells him if he had any chance he would be back with Janice, Les tells her she is walking out the way she did.

Back at Streetcars, Vic asks John what he wants and John tells him he knows why he is here, Vic tells him just to get over and done with as he takes it he has come here to hit me and also tells him not to play around. Vic tells him that is of course he is waiting for someone else but John tells him he does not need anyone else and he just tells Vic he will see him soon.

This email was sent by:

Gareth Chess

Once again the fastest reporter of an episode is here. Fingers to the ready .. let's type!

Sophie and Rosie are arguing over a pencil! Martin helps to placate them. Then Martin suggests to Sally that he moves in. Sally is surprised and shocked.

Richard takes Sarah and David to school. Jason (or is it Todd) comes by, and Sarah invites him to come in as well.

Les is buying chocolates at the corner shop. Les tells Dev that he has Sandra coming round that evening. He speaks in a loud voice so that Janice who is also in the shop can overhear.

Vik tells Dev that Hazel's husband is still "after" him. Dev again tries to warn him off.

Jason (possibly!) goes round to the surgery and sees Gail to make an appointment because he has hurt his foot. He is surprised that Dr Ramsden is back. Matt asks if they left them a welcome home present, because he thought he started a bottle of whisky before they left for holiday. Now the bottle is full again. Jason denies knowing anything about it. He then cancels his appointment.

Dev tells Steve that Vik is in trouble. He hopes that as a friend he may be able to help.

Les apologises to Toyah for telling him about Sandra.

Rita comes to Sally's hardware store to buy a bracket for a shelf. Rita thinks she is looking very happy. Sally tells her that Martin has asked to move in.

Toyah tells Janice that Les has apologised to her.

Steve sees Vik. He tells him that Dev has suggested that he keeps an eye on him. Steve suggests that he goes away for awhile, and hope that Mr Wilding will forget by the time he gets back. Vik says he is not running away as he and Hazel have something special.

Ken gives Charlie a lift home from school. He talks to her, but she gazes at the house and seems miles away.

Dev comes round to StreetCars and offers to take Vik for a drink. He says he can't leave because he is on the switchboard. He confirms that he is not going away despite what Steve has suggested. Vik says that he and Hazel are in love. Despite her husband he is not going anywhere.

Matt and Charlie are in the pub. He remarks that she is a bit quiet. She says she is just tired.

Les sees Janice in the pub. He apologises to her. He then says he is going home to cook for Sandra. Janice guesses that he is getting something from the local takeaway.

Vik makes a heartfelt phone call to Hazel's answering machine.

Sally asks Martin how his first day back at work was. He says it was ok, but has she considered him moving in. She says it is a big decision.

Les sits down at home with a meal-for-one and a can of beer in front of the television.

Sally is still hesitant about Martin. She recalls her mistakes in the past with Danny, Chris, Greg and Kevin (wow she has been through them!). Martin reminds her it was not Danny that ruined things it was her jumping into bed with Kevin. She is so uncertain. Martin tells her it is up to her to decide.

Martin Rosen

(Written By: Julie Gearey Directed By: David Kester)

Tuesday Night's episode started in Number 13, Rosie asks Sally how she is this morning and Sally tells her she is fine why? Rosie then goes on to tell her she heard them rowing and Sally tells her they were not rowing but Rosie tells Sally that she heard them shouting. Sally tells her they had a lot to talk about and Rosie asks again why were they shouting and Sally tells her when adults have something important to say they sometimes misss understand each other and it can sound like an argument. Rosie then asks if that is what happened with her and Martin and Sally tells her yes it was and everything is all right.

At the door of number 7, Emma is asking Curly what him and ben are going to get up to today and he tells her they are going to sit around and have a couple of pints of milk. Curly then says good morning to Rita who says so this is it role reversal in action and Emma tells her it is her wearing the trousers, Rita then tells them she thinks it is a good way to do it and Emma tells her it still a bit strange going to work and leaving them both. Rita tells her when all said and done they are lucky to have the choice.

On the zebra Crossing, Steve meets Vic and asks him how lover boy is this morning and Vic tells him he has made his point and Steve tells him not to get all defensive as Dev is just worried about you and Vic asks Steve is and he tells him he would be if he was a driver down. Vic then tells Steve he has been thinking about what him and Dev said and Steve is glad. Vic says it is not the easy just to go as he has so many things in his head and Steve tells him well he has had a close call so no looking back no regrets and above all no married women/

In the cafe, Toyah asks Les if Sandra is keeping him up all night now as he is yawning Les tells yes she likes to make a night of it and Toyah tells him good it is nice to see him smiling again. At another table, Ashley is asking Martin how things went with Sally and Martin tells him he can not even talk to her without arguing, Ashley then tells him not to worry as Maxine gets like that sometimes dead moody. Martin then asks if it is her horn moans and Ashley tells him not all women are that bad.

In number 8, Richard comes through to the kitchen table with the morning post and David asks if there is anything for him and Richard tells him no not unless he wants to pay the water rates, he tells Sarah there is one for her and she is surprised. Sarah tells them it is from the crche and Richard says Bethany is a bit young for school reports isn't she? Sarah then reads on and shouts they can not do that and Gail asks what and Sarah tells her they are closing the crche, Gail is annoyed and so is Sarah David says she will just have to give up school to look after Bethany and he can give up school to help. Gail tells him to shut up and Sarah says asks her what she is going to do and Richard tells her that can not be the only crche around here Sarah tells him it is the best one and Gail says the closest Sarah tells him she can not afford to send her to a private nursery as they are too expensive. and the council will have to find another suitable place for Bethany. she knows that but it could be miles away and Richard tells her not to panic.

In Underworld, Fizz is working away on her machine and as Hayley passes by she asks her the time and Hayley tells her nearly half past Nine, Fizz is shocked and turns to Janice and tells her she is board and Janice tells her "when she has sawn as many gussets as I have then she can complain", Fizz tells yes but it is so boring doing the same job hour after hour. Fizz then tells them she watched a film like this once and Karen asks what then she tells them it was in one of those old fationed mills and a kid fell into a machine and cut his hand and she thinks we need some excitement like that here. Mike then comes over and tells them if they want a bit of excitement on Monday they are having an open day when they invite the punters and try and get some new contracts. Janice says an open day what is that when it is at home and Mike tells her there is a clue in the title and from now on he tells them no more shoddy workmanship.

Over at Streetcars, Eileen asks Vic if he is going to do the hospital run there is no reply from Vic so she asks vernon to do it and tells him to be careful as Mrs. Kershaw has just had her bunions done. Steve then arrives with some biscuits and Eileen tells him she needs them she then goes to have a word with him and tells him she knows they only pay to answer the phone, but Vic has been getting her down all morning. Steve then goes in and asks Vic what is wrong with him, Vic tells him he is getting over Hazel.

Back in number 7, Curly tells Gail and Sarah he can see how it would upset them, Gail then tells him she does not think he understands how much it effects us as Sarah is in her most important year at school and I can't just give up work. Curly then tells them it might not come to that and Sarah asks him what he means and he tells them he does not know the details but the council are always looking at ways to reduce expenditure and Gail asks him what exactly is he saying they will close the crche and Curly tells Sarah the council have a legal duty to provide you with child care and Sarah asks where as Bethany could end up in the middle of nowhere. Curly then tells her he will look in to it and Gail thanks him, he then passes Ben to Sarah and asks her what she thinks the dry patches are on his head.

In Rita's Flat, Sally tells Rita that she is not telling martin he can never move she is just asking him to wait till we are both sure it is the right thing to do, Rita tells her she knows and she is sure martin understands that as well but Sally tells her he is not showing any sign of it, Sally then tells her he is behaving like a spoilt child and Rita asks her what she means? Sally tells her as soon as she said she did not think it was a good idea him moving in with me he went all aggressive on me and I have not seen him for days. Rita then tells her is she sure she should be talking to her about this and not Martin. Rita also tells her in her opinion should she not be looking forward instead of back.

In the Rovers, Eve asks Jack what he is doing and Jack tells her it is thirsty work collecting pots and Eve tells him is that right and Jack then tells her that he knows she would not deny a man his drink as she is not that kind of boss. Eve then asks what kind of boss is she then and Jack tells her firm but fare and you are all the same you red head females like Bodasea he then goes to collect some more glasses. Eve then goes over to the bar and asks Eileen if she would like another but Eileen tells her no she better get back to work but she does not fancy it with Vic moping around. Les then tells her the poor lad was in love and he is bound to be a bit cut up, Eileen tells him he is in peaces she only wishes it was not over a married women, she then asks what is it about men is it does it make it more of challenge if they are involved with someone else Les tells her not to point the finger at him. In a booth, the factory girls are talking about they open day and Karen tells her what sort of a stupid idea is that Janice agrees with her, Hayley then tells them she does not think is a bad idea and karen tells her badly stitched tummy warmers not for me thanks. Fizz then tells them he wants to broaden out a bit and attract the younger end of the market and she tells them she has a few ideas herself and underwear is the new outerwear and they are all at it Nicole Kidman Madonna and Janice tells her she seems to know a lot about all these sort of things. Fizz then tells them they would be surprised she is not just a pretty face.

Back at the bar, Steve tells Vic he does not know why he is getting so worried for and Vic tells him because he does not know if she is all right and all he has is a stupid text message telling me she has gore to a health spa, but how does he know she is not hurt she could be in hospital and Steve tells him he is getting a bit over dramatic. Ashley asks Les if he is all right and Jack tells Ashley has he not heard love blossoms in the Batersby garden, Ashley asks Les who it is but Les tells him no one he knows and Jack asks if it is an internet bride or what. Ashley says a quicky by computer and Les tells them Sandra and she is a very beautiful lady if you must know. Toyah then goes over to Les and tells him why doesn't you me and Sandra go out for a drink tonight, Les tells her she is not sure but Toyah tells him she will meet him in here about six and Les agrees. Toyah tells him if it is serious between them she would like to get to know her.

INTERVAL

Back outside Streetcars, Vic is a taxi and Steve dashes out and tells him it is his turn on the switch, but Vic tells him he can not do it and Steve asks why where is he going then says don't tell me, if you want to get your head kicked in and see if I care. Vic tells him no one is going to get there head kicked in, but steve asks him what he thinks are husband is going to do when he sees you there and what about hazel. Vic tells him he does not expect him to understand but he has to do it.

Back in Underworld, Fizz is showing off her homemade underwear and asks them what they think Karen tells her it is good and Hayley can not get over she has made it. Mike then comes out and Janice tells him what does he think hidden talent on the shop floor, Mike asks what the hell do you call that and Fizz tells him a bustier and she tells him she made it and Mike is horrified and tells her on his machines, Fizz then tells him she thought he may be interested in her designs for this open day and he throws it back to her and tells her the only [lace she would sell that would be a joke shop. He then tells her it is her last warning and if he catches her again she will be down that job centre faster than she can say Predaportee.

At Hazel's, Hazel tells Vic she does not know what he was worried about and it is nice that you care but you can see for yourself I am perfectly fine and you had better go. Vic tells her he can't and Hazel tells him he has to before John sees you. Vic tells her he can not just just forget about them so Hazel invites him in.

Back at number 8, Gail asks Curly how he got on and Sarah asks what have they said, Curly tells them he has made a few phone calls and Richard tells Curly he told Sarah it was useful to have someone on the inside. Curly tells her it is not looking too good and Gail asks if they are closing the crche and Curly tells them it is not just the crche it is day centers anywhere they think they can make a saving and Gail asks him where it leaves them. Curly tells them obvesley the council will try and find Bethany a suitable child care place but not at that particular facility. David then asks Gail why Curly is talking like that and Sarah tells him that he is a councilor and on their side and does not care what happens to us, Richard tells her he thinks that is a bit unfair but Gail tells him she thinks Sarah has got a point. Gail then tells Curly they are not all lucky enough to be in his position and she tells him she is sure he is sorry but sympathy does not help. Curly tells them if there is anything else he can do and walks out.

In Martin's flat, Sally tells him she just wanted to clear the air and she does not want there to be a problem between them, Martin tells her there is a problem if we both want different things. Sally asks him but do we and she tells him maybe they want the same things but just at different speeds. Martin then asks her if she does want him to move in eventually in two months or years and she does tell him she relises it is not very fare on him but she can not put a time on it abd tells him she can not afford to get it wrong, for her and for the girls and she needs to be sure. Martin tells her that is all right.

In number 5, Toyah comes in to ask Les what is up and he tells her nothing but she tells him she thought they were meeting in the Rovers. Les tells her they were but Sandra can not manage tonight so Toyah suggests tomorrow night and Les tells her that she can not manage tomorrow night either, Toyah asks if everything is all right between them and Les tells her fine they have just decided to cool it for a bit. Toyah tells him she is sorry but Les tells her it is all right and Toyah tells him she thought things were going well between them and Les tells her they were he then goes on to tell her she decided to give her marriage another try but she did not want to but it was her husband he was begging her to come back so I insisted she give it another go. Toyah then tells him she is proud of him and Les tells her he understands the pain of a broken marriage and as much as he liked Sandra he could not stand back and let it happen to another man.

Back at Hazel's, Hazel asks Vic what he was expecting and she tells him he would of loved it if she would of had two black eyes as then he would been able to play the hero. Vic tells her he would not have liked that and she can laugh it him all she wants but he was worried about her, he then tells her he has seen her husband and he knows what he is capable of. Hazel asks him what he means and does he think he beats her and locks her in the airing cupboard, she then asks him what it is about him has he been watching to many nasty videos. Vic then tells her he should never of come and is going to go but Hazel tells him she does not want to fight but she does not know where all this stuff is coming from. Vic then tells her he can not understand why he is here and she should just leave him, but Hazel tells him she never said she would leave John as he is a good man who loves her. She then tells Vic they do not have the best marriage but he just is not that keen on her having affairs. Vic tells her she does not love him so why is she here is it the money cause it ant love. Hazel tells him they had a nice time but they always knew ut was going to end maybe just not so soon, Vic te3tells her it was more than that but she tells him it was not for her and she is sorry if she misled him and she tells him it is over..

Back at number 7, Emma asks Curly what else they expect him to do as the creche is nothing to do with him, Curly tells her he knows but she did not see the way Sarah looked at me and maybe she is right and Emma asks what he means and Curly tells her he was there spouting off about council budgets and he did not relies that people were looking at him the way he has seen people look at Audrey Roberts over the years. He tells Emma he wants to make a difference and she tells him he will give it time and then asks what else did he do apart from upsetting the nabours and he tells her he did look after Ben.

Back in the Rovers, Fizz can not get over that Mike called her design a joke shop design, Toyah then arrives to tell Janice about les and Sandra while Fizz tells Karen and Hayley she will show him and they know what she can do so now she only has to convince Baldwin. Over at the bar, Janice is telling Toyah she is upset for Les but in a way she is relived as she thought she was going mad and she knew it was just more than a friend with that Sandra, Toyah tells her that must have been the husband. Les then comes in and asks Janice if Toyah is filling her in and Janice tells him she is sorry but les tells her she is all right and he sort of admires her and Janice says admire and Les tells her that Sandra was women with owner and not in to two timing her husband.

Back at Hazel's Vic is leaving and as he does he tells her he knows she probably does not want to hear this but if she e ever wants to get in touch to call and he walks off. As he drives out he is spotted by John and that is how the episode finished.

Gareth Chess

In Streetcars, Steve learns from Vik of Hazel's having broken-up with him. Steve advises him to 'walk away', but Vik is in love and won't listen.

Chez Watts. Emma searches for her keys, while telling Curly that he won't have time to do anything about the imminent closure of the creche.

Sally comes out of her house and meets Martin, who seems a bit cool. He has no time for a cup of tea, but they'll see each other later.

Ken leaves for work and Blanche asks him to help her get her new bus pass. She's been on to the bus company, but without success - maybe someone who 'sounds educated' could sort this out for her. [Who can she mean?] Ken agrees to help.

Curly meets a few of the street residents (Sally, Gail, Sarah and Bethany) and suggests a meeting tonight to see what ideas they can up with to avoid its closure. Blanche arrives and tells them all that she's glad the creche is closing; in her day, she needed no help in raising her family - children should be with their mothers and, anyway, the council should not be wasting money on such things. Her opinion, of course, is not shared by her listeners.

In Streetcars, the phone rings and Eileen takes a booking for a taxi at 5h30. When the address is revealed as Hazel's [now, why are we not surprised?] Vik offers his services for this particular pick-up. Steve advises against Vik's decision, and offers to do the job for him. Vik refuses.

In the Rovers, Blanche is talking to Rita about the proposed closure of the creche, and wonders why they have to call it by some foreign name, instead of a good English word, and then goes on to declare that she would never "kowtow" to such nonsense. Maria and Maxine meet up and chat. Maria is going out to a club tonight with a pal. Ken arrives to say that he has sorted-out, partially, Blanche's bus pass - it's not the bus company she has to contact, but the council. All she needs is documentary proof of her identity, maybe from a bill from a utility, or a bank statement. Unfortunately, all the bills in the house are in Ken's name, and she always throws bank statements away. Maria gets a call on her mobile from her pal, who has to call off their night out. Never mind, Maxine will go out with her, for she's sick of staying in. Maria suggests asking Ashley, but Maxine assures her that there's no need. Ken suggests to Blanche that she could ask Curly to vouch for her, but she doesn't seem too keen!

Dev and Vik discuss Hazel. [What else?] Dev thinks she is 'bad news', but Vik doesn't want to hear this.

Blanche approaches Curly for help in getting her desired bus pass, but Curly can't leave Ben. Blanche wonders why he can't leave him in the creche, but Curly suggests that Blanche babysit, while he goes to the Town Hall in the afternoon to get her bus pass. Agreed.

In Roy's Rolls, Martin is listening to Ashley going on about how happy he is with Maxine and how well they communicate, just as Maxine arrives to tell Ashley that she's going out clubbing tonight with Maria. Meaningful communication follows, to the effect that Maxine is NOT going clubbing tonight, and that's final. Instead, they're both going to the meeting at Curly's. Maxine will cancel her plans.

Streetcars office. Blanche struggles in with the pram and complains about the door; can't be easy for young mothers... She's there to deliver a poster about tonight's meeting about the creche. Ben keeps crying and Eileen advises a trip to the doctor's, just in case. Vik decides, against all advice, to take the hire tonight himself.

In the Kabin, Sally tells Rita that she and Martin are still talking. Rita suggests that Sally arrange something special for the weekend, just as a stressed-out Blanche arrives with Ben, who's still crying. Blanche has been to the doctor, but nothing is wrong. Maybe Sally can help, Blanche thinks? Sorry, Sally has a business to run. Rita helpfully advises Blanche to go to the cafe for a coffee, just as Blanche imagines young mothers do every day!

Vik arrives at Hazel's. She gets in the taxi, closely followed by her husband.

Blanche delivers little Ben back to his Dad, making no mention of their visit to the doctor's. Curly hands over the coveted bus pass [how did he get it without Blanche's photo?] and she beats a hasty retreat. Curly thinks he's found a gem of a babysitter.

In Vik's taxi, Mr Wilder mentions that Vik has missed a couple of short-cuts to their destination, but states that some mini-cab drivers don't 'get the message' very easily.

Martin arrives at Sally's, but she's forgotten that she has to pick up the girls from a party, so she has to put off their time together until Sunday. Martin doesn't take kindly to being put off again.

Vik arrives at the Wildings' destination, Halifax Road. Hazel gets out, and another man jumps into the front passenger seat. Mr Wilding 'introduces' this gentleman as Neil, Hazel's brother, and tells Vik to drive on...

Dev arrives at Streetcars to ask about Vik, but he cannot be contacted by radio. Eileen thinks Vik will be enjoying himself too much to answer his radio...

Vik drives his passengers into a dark and deserted scrap-yard, Mr Wilding's business premises. All three get out of the car, and Mr Wilding explains to Vik that he hires various items of plant machinery but, if customers don't return the hired machines, that's where Neil comes in. He also makes clear to Vik that this is how he earns the cash his wife spends so quickly.

Meeting at Curly's and Emma's house. Curly learns, from Gail, of his son's visit to the doctor. [Blanche is not at the meeting.] Any ideas about how to stop the closure of the creche? A petition is mooted by Ashley, but there are no takers to do the work.

Back in the scrap-yard, Mr Wilding continues his explanation of his business to a shaken Vik, who summons up the courage to tell Mr Wilding of how he feels about Hazel and she feels for him. However, Mr Wilding doesn't want Vik ever to see, phone or even think about, his wife again, or it'll be the last move poor Vik will make.

Iain McDougall

(Written By: Peter Whalley Directed By: David Kester)

Sunday Nights episode started in Streetcars with Eileen asking Steve what happened to Vic on the wilding call yesterday, Steve tells her he does not know what happened and he does not know where Vic is. Vic then enters the office and Eileen tells him they were just wondering what had happened and Vic tells them he only lives upstairs it would not of been that hard to find out, Steve then tells him they were not that bothered but Eileen tells him they were she then asks what did happen or should they not ask. Vic tells them that he went to pick her up and her husband got in the cab, then dropped Hazel off and her brother got in and the went to her husbands srap yard, they all get out and there is no one else around and he is thinking great the last thing he is going to see in this world is a load of scrap metal. Eileen can not get over the fact that Vic has just been allowed to go and she tells him the next time she wants a cab she can phone somewhere else, then Steve asks him if he is going to see Hazel again and he tells him he better get going he does not want the people to be late for their plane.

In number 8, Sarah is telling Gail that everyone thought a partition would be a good idea but no one is willing to put the work into it, Gail tells her they were all hoping someone else would and Sarah tells her that is pathetic and Gail says it is human nature and Sarah says now the council is going to think no one is bothered. Gail tells her in a way they are right as nobody is bothered enough and Sarah asks if Gail could do it, but Gail tells her she is like everyone else and she works there. There is then a nock at the door and on her way out Gail asks Sarah why does she not do it. Todd then enters and asks if she is doing anything and Sarah tells him she is and he can help her, she tells him she is starting a petition to see if the council will keep the crche open so he can help her make sure she spells everything right. Gail asks if she is serious and Sarah tells her she is as long as Gail will look after Bethany for her.

In the Kabbin, Sally is telling Rita she does not mind making a bit of an effort as that is what makes it special, Rita asks her how much of an effort and Sally tells her a bit of cleaning a bit of extra shopping just like you do when you have a visitor, but if he moved in she would have to see him al the time and it would make it less special. Les bumps into Janice over at the other side of the shop and Les asks Janice if she is all right and Janice tells him she is and can she ask him something? Janice then asks him if it is true what he said to Toyah about Sandra and Les tells her it was and Janice asks him or was he just fed up, Les tells her what he did not want was in a couple of years Sandra saying she could of got her life back together if she had not met Les, Janice tells him that is nice of him and she then says she should not say that and Les tells her she can if she wants he does not mind.

Out on the Street, David is playing football he then sees martin who comes over to see how he is getting on, David tells him he is playing a match this afternoon and would really like it if he could come and watch so Martin asks David what time kick off is and he is not very sure. Sally then comes up behind him and asks if she fancies going to a football match but she tells him no and Martin tells her it has some class players and Sally tells Martin that she is cooking a class dinner and he better be there for that kicking off, He apologizes to David who seems a bit upset. Janice is coming out of the Kabbin when Fizz comes over and tells her she has been looking everywhere for her and Janice is surprised when Fizz asks for the keys to Underworld on a Sunday, Fizz tells she is great mate and Janice tells her she wont be when Mike finds out.

In Streetcars, Eileen is reading a magazine when Todd and Sarah come in and Todd asks her for one of the notepads that she uses for her shopping lists, Eileen tells him she does not and is trying to get her sacked Todd apologizes as Eileen asks what he wants it for and he tells her a patition on. Eileen asks what kind of petition and Sarah tells her it is to try and keep the crche open where I keep Bethany Eileen gives them one and then asks Todd for a word and she tells Sarah he will catch her up. Steve then come over the radio and Todd is told to wait as Eileen is dealing with Steve.

In the Rovers, Dev and Vic come in and ask Geena for two orange juices and she asks Vic if he is ok as Dev has been telling her what has been going on, Vic tells her he is fine and Dev tells Geena that by the skin of his teeth he is all right and he is now going to have to talk to him about the morals of life. Toyah and Les then come in and les asks Toyah if her mum has put her up to it but Toyah tells him she is doing it because she wants to but only if he wants to. Les tells her he does want to do it and Toyah asks Geena if they have any food on and Geena tells her sandwiches, Les tells her that will be all right as he is much appreciated and Toyah asks if he is sure and she tells Geena she has offered to treat him to his lunch. Over at another table, Dev tells Vic that he wants him to swear that he will never try and see this women again, Vic tells him he is not going to swear to anything and Dev asks him if he wants her husband to vild a big hole and for him to be put in it. Vic tells Dev he does not want that to happen so Dev tells him to stay well away. Vic now tells him that Hazel is scared to death of her husband and Dev tells him he should be too but Vic will not take that on board and tells him all the stuff about not wanting to see him she does not mean it and what went on the other day showed that and Dev asks what and Vic tells him she wants to leave him and come to him.

Back in Streetcars, Todd tells Eileen that Sarah is waiting for him and Eileen tells her yes she is waiting to march you up and down the cobbles collecting signatures, Todd asks what is wring with it and Eileen tells him to keep open the crche where she puts her baby. Todd then clicks and Eileen tells him that he is going to be going round with her while she is talking to folk. Todd then tells her when he finally gets a chance to and Eileen tells him people are going to be saying now we know who the father is. Todd then tells Eileen he gets it and she is saying he should not be going out with her because she has a baby and he also tells her is she not forgetting something as she was in exactly the same Poisson when she had Jason and me. Eileen tells him she only trying to warn him but Todd tells her not to bother as that is hypocrisy.

Back in Number 13, Sally has made the meal for her and martin and Martin sits down and tells her he should have gone and Sally asks him gone where and he tells her to go and see David play football. Sally asks him why didn't he go and he says because she was not to keen on the idea and would not go when he asked her this morning , Sally tells him he did not seem all that bothered and he could of told her sooner. martin tells her he did not know any sooner but sometimes you have just got to do things even although they are inconvenient, Sally then asks him if he is blaming her because he did not go and see david play football. Martin tells her that no one is blaming anyone but Sally tells him it sounds like.

In the precinct, Sandra bumps in to Janice who is surprised to see her, Sandra asks if she has seen les lately and Janice tells her she comes across him and Sandra tells her a bet he is calling me all sorts and she explains how her husband was desperate for them to try again and that in her heart it was what she wanted. Sandra then apologizes for finishing with les and tells Janice he was not happy. Janice is surprised and Sandra asks if she knew and Janice tells her she did but that was not the way Les told it. Sandra then tells her she is sorry she had to dump him but sometimes you just have to do these things and Janice agrees as Sandra walks off.

INTERVAL

Back in number 13, Sarah tells Martin and Sally that it is a petition to try and keep the crche open Sally tells them well done and asks Sarah what she would do if they closed the crche. They both sign it and Sarah and Todd thank them for there support. Sally and martin both then go back to their sweet and Sally tells Martin that she thinks that shows real initiative and martin tells her what have they come to if kids are trying to keep a crche open and Sally asks him if he is going to go and see David and martin asks why does she think he shouldn't and Sally just asks him why is he saying that as he knows she would never stop him seeing David just like she would not expect him to stop her doing anything with Rosie and Sophie. Martin tells her she did stop him going to see David this morning and Sally asks did she but he did not take much stopping.

Back in Streetcars, Sarah is telling Todd that every signature counts a nd Sarah then asks Eileen if she would mind signing it and she does gladly. Todd then coughs and Eileen asks if he has a frog in his through and wishes Sarah good luck. Todd then tells Sarah he will catch up with her and it will not take long this time, he then asks Eileen how can she do that and Eileen tells him do what and he tells her all that signing and best of luck. Eileen tells him that she agrees and Todd is amazed after what she was saying to him earlier and Todd tells her he does not get her and she tells him she us very complex. Steve then comes in asks if Vic has been in and she tells him no. As Todd leaves Eileen wishes him good luck with the petition and tells him she is proud of him.

Back in Number 8, Martin is glad to hear that David won at his football match and he asks how his performance was and david tells him it was ok and Martin asks if that was ok not bad or ok good and david tells him if he had really wanted to know he should have come. Martin apologizes to David then goes over to Gail and tells her that he is never going to be forgiven and she asks how Sally is and Martin asks about Richard and Gail tells him he is off on his travels as he likes to escape from the kids once in a while not that he would ever admit it. Martin then asks if she has ever regretted asking him to move in but Gail tells him no she has not and Martin says goodbye to David and leaves.

Out on the street, Martin bumps into Ashley who tells him it was good timing and asks if he is going for a drink, Martin hesitates then asks Ashley if he is going and tells him ok I will come as I can not let you drink on your own. At the other side of the street Dev is asking Vic what is he going to do now and Vic tells him he is not going to look for Hazel if that is what he is worried about and Dev tells him that is good.

Back in the Rovers, Janice is telling Toyah about seeing Sandra and tells her that she said she finished it with les not Les with her, Toyah tells her that one of them is lying and Janice says it is Les but Toyah says that he is not lying as she knows what he told her this dinner time and Janice asks what was that and Toyah tells her how Les could see that she was better off with her husband. Fizz then comes in and hands back the keys to the factory to Janice and tells her that Mike is going to get the shock of his life. Janice then tells Toyah that Les is lying about Sandra and he is lying because he does not want them to know and Toyah tells her maybe she can go on with him acting but she is going to go and see him and Toyah leaves. Over at the bar, Martin is telling Ashley that Sally does not want him to move in but does want to carry on seeing her, Ashley tells him that maybe she is going to find the house a bit crowded and Martin asks him who care about that and Ashley tells him he is only trying to come up with an explanation and Martin tells him it is called keeping you right where they want you. Rita then says afternoon to them all and Rita says to martin that she believes he is going out for his dinner and Marin tells her he has been and Rita asks him if he has left Sally to do the washing up, Martin then asks what else Sally has been telling and Rita tells she is sorry she mentioned it as she did not relies it was such a tricky subject. Martin then offers to buy her drink and Rita tells him there is no need and he apologizes and Rita tells him if they all bought drinks for people we were a bit off hand to then none of us would ever be sober.

In number 5, Les tells Toyah he was just have a ten minutes sleep and then Toyah asks him if he dumped sandra or if Sandra dumped him and Les tells her he told her then shows her what happened and when les has explained Toyah tells him she will leave him to get back to sleep and Les tells her he is awake now so he will see what is on television.

Back in number 13, Sally is washing the dishes and tells Martin she was beginning to think he was not coming back and Martin tells her he bumped into Ashley and they had a quick pint in the pub. Martin then explained that that if he wanted to decide to see her and the next week he might prefer a pint with his mates and he asks her if that is a suitable for a relationship. Sally tells this is because I did not want you moving in with me and it must be what I want. Martin asks her if it is and she tells him she does not know and Martin tells her if she does not know then how us suppose to know.

Back at Streetcars, Steve asks Vic what kind of funeral he would like and he tells him he wants a big one lots of women in tears and Steve tells him that could be hard and Eileen tells him she wont be going as she has been at enough funerals and Steve tells him he wont bother. Eileen tells him why does he not just leave her a lone as the men have told him what they will do to him and she has told him to get lost Steve tells that may not be such a bad idea and Vic tells them she said that because she had to and he is not a cowered.

Back at number 13, Sally tries to get Martin to cheer up and tells him they have both given each other a hard time so lets just enjoy the rest of the day and she tells him it was not his fault. Martin tells her it is and he has not been in the mood for the day and he should have stayed in bed and Sally tells him she could have come with him. Martin then tells her a week ago that would have been great but now it just feels like play acting, Sally asks him what he means and he tells her they are not going anywhere. Sally then tells him either she lets him move in and Martin tells her no as he does not want to and says is not saying he can. Sally tells him she will not be blackmailed and martin tells her he knows and that is why he thinks they should end it as he does not love her any more.

That is how the episode finished.

Gareth Chess

Well it starts off with Sally doing the washing up in a bad mood. She drops a plate. Then the kids ask if Martin is taking them to the pictures. Sally explains that he and Martin have had a few things to say to each other.

Ken tells Curly that his article in the newspaper about the cr¶che should help get support. Curly notes that there is not many people have signed the petition.

Matt tells Charlie that he has agreed to go along to Curly's meeting. Charlie says she would rather not go.

Karen wants to tell Bobbie about Vik's mystery woman. Bobbie says she doesn't want to know.

Fizz shows the girls in the factory the underwear that she has designed and made. Baldwin comes in and notes nobody is working, and tells them to get back to work.

Curly assures Sarah that the Council is for the people and feels confident they will listen to him.

Vik tells Dev that he hasn't been able to contact Hazel. Dev says he has just come out of a lucky escape and should not pursue the relationship.

Sally sees Martin. She says she doesn't understand him. One minute they are arguing and the next minute he wants to move in. She says she want to apologise. He doesn't want to hear it. He tells her that they can't can't get back together. He says his mind is made up, and that he doesn't love her her anymore.

Mike shows buyers around the factory on the open day. They do not seem impressed.

Sally goes to Rita to talk things over. Rita suggests giving him a few days to calm down. Gail comes in and tells Rita that Sally looked pail. Rita tells her there is nothing wrong that she can't sort out. Gail guesses there is a problem with Martin.

Fizz gets her creations ready to display. Mike sees her and tells her to get rid of them.

Gail goes round to Sally. Sally confesses that her and Martin have split up. Gail says she wants to help. She thinks Sally ought to try again with Martin, and not give up. Sally says she doesn't need to have a man.

Janice tells Fizz that Baldwin doesn't like his girls getting above themselves. Fizz says she will never get a break. The girls all go home, but Mike tells Fizz to wait. Karen and Janice wonders whether Mike will sack her.

Vik tells Dev that he wants to go back one more time. Dev says he wants to come along, but Vik tells him not to.

Sally apologises to Gail. They make up.

Fizz tells Baldwin that the girls like her designs. He tells her that her stuff is rubbish and gives her a final warning.

Charlie tells Emma that she can't go to the meeting; she has something else on.

Fizz gives her friend Karen one of her designs. A bustier (?!).

Curly and Matt come back from a council meeting disgruntled. It seems there wa sno time for discussion, they spent most of the meeting talking about a new car park.

Martin tells Ashley that there is no chance of the relationship with Sally of getting back on.

Vik goes round to Hazel. He has noted that her husband is out. She tells him to go away. He says he is not scared of the husband or brother. She doesn't want him she tells him that she had hoped that he would go once and for all.

Charlie goes to see a doctor (not Matt!) The doctor confirms she is pregnant.

Vik says he has worried about her evening while he Hazel was being threatened. Hazel says that he was not taking the hint, she doesn't want to know him anymore. He leaves tearfully.

Martin Rosen

Chez Ramsden. A very pale-looking, and unhappy, Charlie kisses her husband as he leaves for work. When he's gone, she picks up the phone and dials a number...

At the Watts', Curly is preparing a bag for Ben while Emma gets ready for work. Curly has a meeting in the morning at the council offices about the imminent creche closure. Emma will be back at 1h30 for the handover of duties.

Rosie and Sophie wonder if Martin will still be taking them swimming, but will he take them now that he and their Mum have split up? Well, they reckon that, since he's taking David, he'll take them too. Curly wheels Ben in his pram and meets Sarah; he tells her about his meeting at the council offices.

Tea break at Underworld, and Fiz is excited at being a fashion designer. The girls are all pleased for her. Mike appears, and lets them all know that they'll be working on a new range of undies, and he introduces his new designer to them. Fiz reckons she'll not be on a machine for long...

Streetcars, and two strangers arrive in the office. Eileen mistakes them for customers, but they're from the Taxi Licensing Board and want to speak to someone in authority. Eileen calls Vik and Steve on the radio.

In Roy's Rolls, Curly is trying desperately to find a babysitter for Ben, but without success. The creche is full. Emily? No. Sarah? No. He even asks Sarah to skip classes to help out, but under the gaze of Roy, he decides that that isn't an option.

In the Rovers, the girls from Underworld quiz Fiz about her contract and she reveals her one-off payment of 500 pounds. Karen tells her that she's been conned by Baldwin, and Fiz begins to doubt her good fortune.

Curly is relaxing at home while Ben sleeps. Emma arrives, to hear Curly's tale of his wasted morning and the difficulties of getting child care. However, he's going to try to see people at the council offices this afternoon, while Emma watches Ben.

In the Rovers, Bobbi asks Fiz if she could model some of her creations, but Fiz thinks Bobbi's too skinny. Karen has been speaking to Emily, who used to be Baldwin's book-keeper, and drags a reluctant Fiz to meet her. Emily explains to Fiz the ways of profit and mark-ups and it begins to dawn on the hapless Fiz that she's been ripped-off.

Charlie has taken a day off school, and arrives at Emma's, where she announces that she's going into a clinic on Wednesday at 12h00 for an abortion. Can Emma pick her up about 4h00? She hasn't told Matt, and never intends to.

Back at Streetcars, the two inspectors from the Taxi Licensing Board explain to Steve and Vik the reason for their visit - complaints have been received, about illegal pick-ups and overcharging among other things, and they'll need full access to their files.

Charlie explains her feelings to Emma. She doesn't want a baby, ever, and that must be her decision, not influenced by Matt. Emma tries to dissuade her from having the abortion, but Charlie has made her mind up. Emma promises to support her; they're mates. Charlie is about to go, when Ben is heard crying, and Emma manages to persuade Charlie to stay and chat some more.

In Underworld, Fiz goes to see the wily Mike about renegociating her contract, but he refuses, telling her that she's lucky and to trust him! When she tells the girls about the outcome of her meeting with Baldwin, she quotes what he said, but even she realises that she's been duped, in spite of his reassurances.

Charlie continues to explain to Emma how she feels about being pregnant - she loves Matt, but although he wants a family, she doesn't. If he ever found out, about her pregnancy and her planned abortion, their marriage would be over and it would break his heart.

Streetcars, and Les and Vernon end their shift. Vik lets them both know that he suspects that one of the drivers has 'let the side down' and that there'll be a meeting of all drivers tomorrow. Once they've left, Steve thinks that it's Vik who's the guilty party - could it be Wilding who's made the complaints? - and, if so, their joint business is going down the pan because Vik 'can't keep his pants on'!

Charlie and Emma continue their heart-to-heart chat about babies when Curly arrives home after a wasted afternoon at the council offices; he hasn't managed to see the people he wanted to see. Emma asks him to 'disappear', for about a half-hour, while she and Charlie talk 'girl-talk'. He goes off to the cafe... Charlie then makes Emma promise never to tell Curly about her predicament - ever - and Emma agrees.

Martin and David are having a bite to eat in the cafe when Sally enters and asks Martin why he didn't take the girls swimming. They're upset, she tells him. Curly is having a quiet coffee. Sarah arrives and asks him how he got on at the council offices. She is less than impressed when Curly admits that, despite all his efforts, he has achieved nothing. Sarah storms off, but not without telling a despondent Curly that he's 'useless'.

Back in the Rovers, Fiz again attempts to talk Mike into a percentage deal, but he's sticking to the signed contract which Fiz signed of her own accord. Les and Vernon try to find out from Eileen what's going on at Streetcars but, in spite of buying her a (single) brandy, she tells them that she knows nothing. Matt and Charlie have a quiet drink. Matt wishes that he could have a day off when he felt like it. Martin comes into the pub, just as Sally is leaving. He apologises for letting the girls down, but explains that he thought it best to 'keep his distance'. They seem awkward with each other, and Sally leaves. Fiz watches Mike at the bar, and she thinks that he's laughing at her. She only wants a fair deal, which the girls assure her that she'll not get from someone like him. Fiz explodes into action - she approaches Mike and asks him how he can sleep at night. Mike then explains that, in business, you can't trust anyone, and that's a valuable lesson she's learned. Fiz then throws a drink in his face and, wiping his face, he tells her to come in on Monday to clear her locker - she's sacked. Mike leaves, and Fiz has had her moment of glory, but at what cost?

Iain McDougall

Well you almost missed tonight's report. I got settled down to watch our favourite programme, and then suddenly remembered I was writing the report! Grabbed a pen and paper and off I go ...

At the time of writing I haven't seen Janette's report from Friday (she did say it would be late, nor Gareth's report from last night - so some of this may not make sense if you are trying to follow the story. Apologies, but hope you will be able to catch up).

Tyrone is talking to 'Monica' about Fiz. Jason (?) shows him the coverage and photograph in the paper.

Karen tells Steven to take control of the company. Wants Steve to be more positive with Vik. As Vik comes in, Karen storms off.

The girls in the factory are talking about the newspaper article and the protest. She wishes she didn't do it. When they tell her it got her job back, she says she has lost her boyfriend.

Emma comes into the surgery to see the health visitor. Matt comes out and becomes very paternal over her.

Steve says he is going to see the Council officers who are investigating his company. Vik says he will come with to prove it is not Wilding who is responsible.

Emma tells Charlie she saw Matt at the surgery and it is obvious that he wants children of his own. Charlie says that is why he must never know. She just says she does not want a baby.

Curly tells Gail to encourage Sarah with her protest for the cr¶che.

Blanche tells Emily that protesters shouldn't win. Emily believes every individual has the right to fight for what is right.

Fiz tells Hayley that she didn't get any support from Tyrone, all he wanted is for her to come down off the roof. Hayley thinks she should follow her heart and if she really wants Tyrone then she should go for it.

Curly comes to the cr¶che to join the sit in. One mother says he wouldn't be there if it wasn't for his child. He replies, neither would she be if it wasn't for hers.

Matt comes in briefly, he says he can't stay. He does offer his support. Curly says to him that he can't see Charlie staying in and looking after a baby.

The reporter from the local newspaper interviews Sarah. He soon discovers that she is a single parent when Jason (?) denies that he is the father. He takes a photography of Sarah and Bethaney.

Mike tells Fiz that her design was good but not brilliant. He suggests that she should put more effort into her designs rather than romance and she would have a good future.

Steve and Vik come back from the town hall. It seems the complaint was made for sexual harassment. They won't say who the complainant is, to protect the identity of the person. Steve is convinced that it is obviously Hazel Wilding is responsible.

Emily and Blanche are talking about an Easter play at the church. Emily says she is really getting involved in her parts. She is looking forward to saying "kill the blasphemers!". Blanche is surprised she would want to say that in Church.

Maxine comes round to Emma's, and Charlie is there. She wants to know why they have been blanking her all day. She wonders why. Charlie tells her that she is pregnant. However she insists that she doesn't tell anybody, including Ashley.

Fiz gives Tyrone his jacket back. She says he can give it to his next girlfriend. Tyrone says he doesn't want one. She tells him that she has ambition, he hasn't. They split amicably.

Charlie tells Maxine that she is having an abortion. Maxine is upset, she doesn't want her to go through with it. Charlie insists she doesn't tell anyone.

An hour long episode on Wednesay.

Martin Rosen

Charlie is trying to come to terms with Matt's revelation - that he's, without a doubt, the father of Maxine's unborn baby. Matt tries to calm her, but the lady is not for calming.

Next door, Ashley tucks into a hearty breakfast, while Maxine seems to have lost her appetite. A row is heard through the wall, chez Ramsden, and the hapless Ashley has no idea of the reason for it - Maxine does - and he reckons that Maxine will get her appetite back after the birth...

Back at the Ramsden home. Matt tries, unsuccessfully, to explain what happened in a rational way - they were both very drunk - but Charlie sees the irony of the situation, in that 'it' happened while Ashley was in hospital for an operation to help him have children! How many more of his patients has Dr Matt 'helped' in this way?

In Streetcars, the mood is no lighter. Steve accuses Karen of blabbing about their problems with the taxi business, but Karen shrugs this off and blames Vik, just as he arrives. Vik accuses Karen and Karen accuses Vik, whom, she says, needs no help in sending the business down the pan.

Les touts for business, first with Emily ('we do a church service') and then with Maria, all to no avail. Vik arrives and warns Les that touting for business is against the law. Maria chats to Bobbi. Does she not think it's gone far enough? Bobbi's response is: 'let 'em sweat!'

Audrey arrives at Gail's to hear the latest on the demo, and the arrest of Curly. Emily arrives, and tells them all that they should 'stick with it' until the council crumbles. At her age, Emily doesn't care what people may think of her - she's guided only by her conscience, unlike many politicians.

Charlie and Matt talk (and shout) some more - about regrets, recrimination, marriage, lies and, oh yes, sex. Matt admits that, at one time, he would have gone off with Maxine, for the sake of the baby, but he now wants to save his marriage. Charlie is not very receptive to his overtures!

Tyrone and Kirk clinch a deal: for just 10 pounds and the leather jacket (ex-Fiz), Tyrone can help Kirk sell the 200 Easter eggs he has stashed at Maria's flat. A profit will be made, Kirk says. Maria arrives and orders her brother to move the eggs, right now!

Rosie badgers her Mum, Sally, for a new pair of trainers, but Sally cannot afford such an item, and they disappear into the chippie for two bags of chips. No boeuf bourguignon tonight then...

Emma brings Curly home in a police car. Norris has coped well, it seems, with watching Ben, but Emma is not best pleased with being a laughing-stock at the police station.

Tyrone and Kirk try their sales pitch with Sally, and then with Dev. No sale.

Matt and Charlie continue their 'discussion'. Charlie: 'No baby for years and then two come along at the same time!' In spite of Matt's pleas, she orders him out of the house, for good...

In the Rovers, Karen, Bobbi and Fiz have a quiet drink. Mike has a bash at winding Fiz up before he leaves, smiling. (Not a load of smiles tonight, so I enjoyed that one!) Dev advises Vik to get to the bottom of who's been complaining - ask Wilding. (Horrible pun quite unintentional.) Tyrone and his equally thick pal, Kirk, try to sell their wares in the pub, to Norris, who promptly reports them to Eve, who threatens to bar them if they try to sell goods in her pub...

A quiet moment at the Platt household. Rosie is complaining to David about her Mum's refusal to buy her the new trainers she so badly wants, but David has the situation sussed - she ought to ask her Dad, for that's what he does. Guilt works every time!

Matt leaves, watched by Ashley and the pregnant Maxine. Ashley goes off to talk to him, while Maxine phones Charlie, who tells a stunned Maxine that she knows everything that happened and, if she wants Matt, she can have him.

Rosie arrives at the garage and tells her sob-story about the trainers to her Dad, Kevin, who thinks (?) he might just be able to manage to find the money... (David was right, eh?)

Ashley asks for Matt in the Rovers, but he's not there. He goes off to search elsewhere. Sally arrives, is bought a drink by Richard, and she tells Gail about how tight money is, but things will pick up soon, as Easter is the time for DIY. Mike, still all smiles (I never trust him when he smiles!), asks Les when he's going to the Job Centre and he adds a rejoinder about 'some woman being raped', which is overheard by Steve, who warns Mike that that is libel. Not true, says Mike, that is slander!! Mike smiles some more... Maria asks Bobbi to stop her complaints against Streetcars, but she won't. Kevin arrives and suggests he buy new trainers for Rosie. Sally refuses. Fiz sees that Kirk is now wearing 'her' leather jacket and laughs at Tyrone for 'catching the other bus'. Kirk doesn't see why Tyrone should 'catch another bus' when he has a car!! (Apparently, Kirk is as daft as he looks.)

Emma and Curly continue to have some marital stife about his arrest after his having broken the law at the council car park. Emma insists that her career will not be damaged, nor her reputation, but Curly wants her to review her priorities.

Gail and Richard settle down for a nightcap, and Gail thanks him for his support in the demo. Gail thanks him for 'caring'... (Good Lord, is this going to be a happy family?)

While Ashley watches TV, Maxine wants a breath of fresh air and goes for a short walk, alone...

... and Maxine arrives at Charlie's. They 'have to talk'.

Back in Streetcars, Steve tells Vik that he has to go and see Mr Wilding, if their business is to be saved.

Maxine and Charlie have a quiet chat, about the situation. Maxine wants Charlie NOT to tell Ashley about what happened but, since Maxine blabbed about Charlie's secret to Matt, then why should she (Charlie) keep her secret (Maxine's)??

Iain McDougall

---

Back to Updates index page		Back to corrie.net