Episode Number 1

Karen and Steve reminisce gleefully about their sexual frolics in the Show Flat the previous evening, when Richard and a prospective couple of buyers got more than they had bargained for. "Just like starring in our own blue movie!" thinks Karen...

Chez Watts. Before leaving for work, Emma reminds Curly to do a load of washing. He doesn't look happy with his 'little man at home' role.

Emily's house, and Norris is going on, and on, about the imminent arrival of his Commonwealth Games uniform - he euphoric, she dysphoric. Emily feels a migraine coming on and 'advises' Norris to go and get his uniform NOW, while she takes a couple of paracetemol.

Fred is seen outside the Rovers, looking up and down the street. A car arrives, and out steps Mrs Lillian Spencer, the new, and very snobby, bar manager, complete with Dinah, her pet mynah bird. She tells Fred that, at her age, she's well-used to being disappointed, but Fred loses no time in ushering her into the Rovers to meet 'her' staff, Shelley and Geena, who aren't exactly delighted to meet their new boss, especially as she informs them that she'll be 'doing her tour of inspection in due course!' Fred has obviously kept Mrs Spencer as a surprise...

On the street, Vik learns of Steve and Karen's antics at the Show Flat. (Will he keep this to himself? Will he heck, as like!)

While Tyrone works at the garage, Kirk and Jason discuss a possible venue for Jason's birthday party. A perfect solution is found - have it at Les'. After all, they can't damage anything there, for everything's damaged already. (Seems logical...)

Back room at the Rovers, where Fred and Lillian have tea and empathy. Of course, this wee pub is a big come-down from the Golf Club and from her halcyon days at the Xanadu cocktail bar at the Majestic Hotel in Cleethorpes, but she assures Fred that she'll drive the Rovers up-market. Fred is so happy, and looks forward to a fruitful association, I say a fruitful association, for the two of them, both business and personal. What caaan he mean?

In the Kabin, Norris arrives, resplendent in his Commonwealth Games' uniform. (Looks to me like a tacky multi-coloured shell suit and the ubiquitous baseball cap - very fetching!)

In the Rovers, Lillian Spencer makes her presence felt to Shelley and Geena; they can call her Mrs Spencer, thank you. Mike thinks that Lillian is more 'bay window and lace curtains' than anything else, but Fred thinks he's found a pearl. (Among swine?) Kevin arrives, in his working togs, and Mrs Spencer lets him know that 'her' clientele is expected to dress correctly, and then swans off, allowing one of the barmaids to serve Mr Webster his pint.

Emily is doing some shopping at the Corner Shop, but Norris arrives and bans Emily from buying cheese and chocolate. He replaces the offending items on the shelf.

The boys (Kirk, Tyrone and Jason) arrive at Les' house to tell him of the planned party. Les is, at first, all in favour, but he orders them out of his house when he realises that he's not invited.

Emily is at the end of her tether with Norris, who tells her that 'we're all on this earth to help each other'. Emily demands that he leave her in peace.

Curly is preparing a nice piece of lamb for dinner, but Emma is late. He phones the cop shop, only to learn that Emma has left. Curly asks little Ben if he likes the new shirt he's just bought...

The Rovers. Thanks to Vik, everyone knows about the "love-in" at the Show Flat and, when Steve and Karen appear, they do so to much hilarity and applause. Various jokes are bandied about - 'sexy squatters', 'mates', 'show flat' and 'bed to worse' being a few. Karen thinks that it's all good fun, when she has the perfect body. (Phew would agree with that!)

Morning in the back room of the Rovers, Fred arrives, in some style, to meet Lillian and her feathered friend, Dinah, which has just been let out of her cage to drop a deposit on the couch. More tea and empathy, with toast. Lillian says that Fred, or can I call you Frederick?, is so considerate, and they share a touching of hands.

In the Rovers, Les negotiates a fee of 10 quid to let the lads have their party at his house. Richard arrives and is eventually told by Steve that they'll buy the flat. Richard buys the drinks.

Emma arrives home to a ruined dinner. She claims that she's been working, but Curly tells her that he knows she's been out boozing with her colleagues. Emma pleads 'bonding' with colleagues, necessary for her career.

Back at the Rovers, Lillian produces a bottle of Claret, which is only for her, she tells Shelley and Geena. Lillian spills a few drops while pouring herself a glass... Mike watches Fred and thinks that he's smitten with Lillian. Norris arrives, still in his Commonwealth Games' garb, and gets his sleeve wet from the spilt wine.

Chez Watts. A few angry words are exchanged when Emma sees that Curly's new shirt has cost about 40 quid, and Emma doesn't give Curly enough housekeeping to keep the family going. Is role-reversal working?

Back at the Rovers, Norris is furious that his new uniform has been soiled by 'plonk'! Lillian, in full flight, regards this 'atrocious small man' as being surplus to her requirements and bans him immediately. Norris leaves, quietly, while some of the regulars (Audrey, Mike and Ken) mump and moan about the treatment meted out.... They stay.

Episode Number 2

Chez Emily, where Norris is going on and on at his maltreatment in the pub to his landlady. How can Fred have hired this woman? Norris advises Emily to stay away from people today, since some folk witter on and are so inconsiderate... (Good advice, eh?)

Back room at the Rovers. During the night, apparently, Lillian 'strayed' into Frederick's room, by mistake and she apologises, but Frederick doesn't seem to mind at all. (He wouldn't, eh?) Lillian goes on to 'mention' the fact that she was wakened during the night by loud "regg eye" music from the flat next door, but Fred (sorry - Frederick) offers to swap rooms with her, for he is a heavy sleeper. (Can't argue with that!) Fred promises Lillian a succulent rack of lamb for their dinner tonight, and Lillian waxes eloquently about Frederick's empire...

Chez Watts. Curly has been up since 6am, when Emma gets downstairs. She promises to be back by 5pm, for Curly has a council meeting he has to attend at 8pm.

At Eileen's, Todd is finishing his homework when Jason gets downstairs. Jason tells his Mum that his party is ON, at Les'...

In the Kabin, Norris is regaling Rita about Emily's recurring migraines, which conversation Richard just happens to overhear. Blanche arrives and blabs about Norris' having been barred from the Rovers last night; of course, Blanche will protest on his behalf.

Jason and Kirk discuss the impending party, and Claudette, from the chip shop, agrees to bring some of her pals along.

In the Rovers, Lillian impresses upon Shelley and Geena the need for high standards. Both girls will have a word with Fred, for they think that he's smitten with Lillian. (Shelley puts the situation quite well - she's interested in his bank balance, and he's interested in her cleavage!)

Les' house. Norris has come in to complain, in advance, of the noise from the party, although he says he likes the 'odd soiree' himself. (I'd think that would be fine - a soiree with Norris on his own!)

Blanche and Archie arrive in the Rovers and meet with Lillian, who takes a shine to Archie, with his nice cuff-links and Burton's jacket. Blanche ends up agreeing with her about what sort of clientele is wanted in the Rovers...

In the back room of the pub, Fred assures Shelley and Geena that they're a 'good team'.

At the party, a good time is being had by, well, no-one. Jason looks miserable. Everyone else is too.

Richard calls on Emily, just to find out how she's feeling. However, Norris doesn't trust him and warns her of his 'intentions'.

At the party, Jason keeps going on about the great time he had in Blackpool. Oh, where are Claudette and the girls?

Look no further - they arrive, but at the wrong door. Norris opens his door to a bevvy of lovely girls and he redirects them to Coronation Terrace - heh heh!! (Norris daft? - don't think so!)

Curly eventually 'welcomes' Emma home at 9h30, when she'd promised to be home by 5h00. He's had to forego his council meeting for 8h00, and he storms off to bed.

Back in the Rovers. Audrey and Deirdre discuss Fred's 'ways with women', and Audrey reminds Deirdre of John Lindsay. Rita is introduced, by Fred, to Lillian. Rita makes it quite plain that Lillian's 'chucking-out' of her friend, Norris, was quite unacceptable, and Lillian adopts a rather condescending attitude to Rita, which Rita does not accept gracefully!! {Sparks are about to fly!!!!!!!}

Back at the party, one word leads to another. It appears that Jason has been sacked from his job, and Jason punches Todd for pointing that out.

Rovers. Shelley and Geena have an altercation with Lillian, in full view of the regulars... ... and Rita weighs-in with all guns blazing. (Woweee, Rita!!) Rita accuses Lillian of ruining their nice pub by her jumped-up, high and mighty, attitude, while the lofty Lillian accuses Rita of being jealous of her close relationship with Frederick. One of the best confrontations in TV soap ends in Lillian barring Rita, and telling her to "Get out!"...

In the final scene, Shelley advises Mrs Spencer: 'You've made a big mistake there, love!'

Iain McDougall

Fred brings the pies in the Rovers, Shelley mimicing Lillian tells him to tak ethem out. He should be providing more upper class food.

Maxine's mum , Doreen turns up on the doorstop announces that she is staying a couple of days ,so she can get to know her Grandson better. Ashley looks non too pleased.

Emily is still suffreing from migranes and feeling unwell, she insists she would feel better if he stopped fussing and telling everybody she is unwell.

Fred tries to find out why Rita has been bared. Lillian explains that he doesn't keep his work /life and home life apart leaving the likes of Rita telling him what to do. She is there to run a tight ship and that starts by letting customers know that they are Customers and not friends. Fred hangs on to every word, gurning and grinning as she talks.

Jason , having been told by his mum to get down to the Jobcentre disappears with Eileen's housekeeping money leaving a note " Will send you a postcard."

Noris spies through the Kabin window, watching Richard talking to Emily. Norris thinks he is waiting for her to die so he can get his money. Rita warns him to keep his ideas ti himself. Emily comes in to the Kabin as she has spotted Norris at the Window. Emily feels faint , Rita concerned wants Norris to accompany her home.

Audrey consoles Rita over her enforced exile from the Rovers both are amazed that Fred hasn't been over to apologise. Audrey promise she will go and have a "chat" with him.

Lillian watches Jack struggling with a beer crate, fishes for information about him. The Look on her face implies she is not worrying about his health. A young man comes in looking for "Mrs Spencer" then with the shrieks of "mummy" abd "Timothy" you deduce it is her son.

Emily has fallen asleep on the chair, Norris tenderly places her arm across her body, which falls back to the floor when he tyrns around. The Doorbell rings, it's Richard.Norris refuses to let him in ,shutting the door in his face.

Maxine 's mum brings in stacks of suitcases. Maxine asks her if she has left her dad. Maureen denies it.

In the Rovers, Audrey beckons Fred over, he takes some time to come. Fred thinks Rita will be allowed back in if she apologises to Lillian. He sticks up for Lillian, on the grounds that she was the only to help ihim in this latest crisis. Audrey reminds him who his friends are , storms out telling him "Not to come running to her when it all goes sour" Liilian looks smugly on.

Janette

Sunday morning in the Kabin, and Norris voices his concerns about Emily's continuing migraines, plus Richard's recent visits to Emily's, to Rita, who asks Norris what he would like. Norris would like to see him depart the scene, permanently.

Back room of the Rovers, where Mrs Spencer announces to Shelley and Geena that more changes are afoot, starting immediately with staff appraisal, which the staff (Shelley and Geena) don't seem to welcome at all. How can she appraise the staff with so little experience of the pub? Mrs Spencer keeps her eyes and ears open, she says. Fred is obviously happy to let her run things her way... (or is he?).

Chez Peacock, and Ashley asks Doreen about the whereabouts of Derek, her husband, but Doreen is short on details. 'He doesn't stay long in one place', she states, and Ashley mutters that he wishes some others would follow his excellent example!

Jack appears in the Rovers, having been summoned by Mrs Spencer. Shelley alerts Jack to the imminent staff appraisal, but Jack thinks that he'll be alright; after all, he and Vera used to own the pub, so he'll be able to pass on his wisdom to Mrs Spencer. Mrs Spencer emerges from the back room and bids Jack to come through - not for tea, as he imagines.

In the back room, Mrs Spencer (The writer is afraid to call her Lillian!) wastes no time in getting down to business. Clip-board to hand, Mrs Spencer appraises Jack's performance as cellarman in the pub. He has a bad heart, sore back, is 65, lazy, reads the racing paper in the cellar and, well, he's no use to her. Is he sacked? No. He's redundant and, with that, she dismisses poor Jack like a naughty schoolboy, her valediction being a cheery 'Bye Bye!'

Richard calls on Emily, touting for business, as he admits. Emily has no more money to invest, but Richard reminds her that her hephew may just arrive and present her with a cheque, as income for her investment in his Juice Bar, any day now. (Richard thinks he hears a noise - is Emily sure they're alone? Immersion heater, she explains.) Tea and biscuits are offered, and accepted.

In the Kabin, Blanche and Deirdre enter, with Blanche saying that she doesn't trust 'him' (Archie), which Norris misconstrues as a reference to Richard. Rita sorts out the confusion. Blanche wonders out loud if Norris is 'up to' the Games, and Norris assures her that he is - indeed, it is a proud time for Manchester. Rita adds that Norris can welcome folk from all parts of the old Empire in their own language, while Blanche warns him that he'll need to be able to direct them to the nearest toilets, since they've come such a long way. Deirdre wishes she'd offered her services, but Blanche reminds her that she failed her French O Level exam.

Deirdre and Blanche exit the Kabin and meet a doleful (sorry for that dreadful pun!) Jack looking at the small ads in the shop window. Jack asks Blanche how she fills her time in, now that she's retired. Hobbies! Jack is not impressed. Deirdre tells Jack that he doesn't look well. (Cheer the guy up, eh, Deirdre?) As they cross the street, Blanche spies Archie ushering Audrey into his car, and she jumps to the wrong conclusion. (We know that Archie's relationship with Audrey is professional, only.)

The Watts' home, where Curly and Emma agree to stop arguing; after all, they have a nice house, enough money, little Ben and each other. Kisses and cuddles. Night out tonight?

Norris arrives to check on Emily, and witnesses Richard coaxing a confused Emily to take a couple of her migraine pills. Norris orders Richard out of the house, never to return, even threatening to call the police. Richard leaves, but promises to call again later.

In Roy's Rolls, Ashley is taking refuge from women (Maxine and Doreen) and he and Audrey discuss Fred's new dalliance. What can be done about this Mrs Spencer, they wonder... Jack skulks in, but he'll tell Vera why he's not at work later.

Back at Emily's, she assures Norris that Richard was 'the essence of kindness' to her, and that why he was there is personal, and none of Norris' business.

The Kabin again. Blanche meets up with Archie, and accuses him of playing with her affections - she saw Audrey and him together, which Archie explains as his running Audrey to the cemetery to visit Alf's grave. Blanche is still suspicious.

In the Rovers, Doreen arrives and tells Fred that she's 'helping out' with little Josh. Betty arrives. She's back to find out what she'd get from the sale of her house. Doreen hopes that Betty is as welcome in Gordon's and Caroline's house as she is with her 'gem' of a son-in-law, Ashley... Vera and Jack enter the pub and, while Jack remains mutely in the background, Vera launches into an attack, first on Fred and then on Mrs Spencer, for Jack's sacking. Mrs Spencer loftily tells Mrs Duckworth that Jack is a malingerer, he belongs in a rest home and the only beer he can lift is the glass he raises to his lips. Vera informs the uppity Mrs Spencer that they used to own the pub, but Mrs Spencer dismisses Vera and Jack with her observation that Jack and her are 'ghosts from the past', not welcome here any more. "Nylon shirts and plastic earrings belong in The Flying Horse!" As Vera and Jack quit the pub, Ashley asks for a word with his Dad...

... and in the back room, Ashley and Fred disturb Timothy at his lunch. Timothy, on being introduced to Ashley, opines that it's 'a daft name', but Fred reminds him that this is his son. Not well-pleased, Ashley 'invites' Timothy to take his meal elsewhere. Ashley tries, without success, to talk some sense to Fred - he's losing customers - but Fred won't listen; Fred does admit to liking 'the cut of her jib', but claims a purely business relationship.

Chez Watts. Rita will babysit, while Emma and Curly go out for a posh meal at Delphine's. More kisses and cuddles...

Ashley, back home again, asks Maxine why her Mum needs two suitcases for a short stay. Maxine provides the obvious answer - one suitcase for today, one for tomorrow!

Rovers, and Fred advises caution on Betty's part on the selling of her house. Doreen again tells Betty of her warm welcome across the road. Archie and Audrey discuss their mutually awkward situation - Archie has promised to keep their professional association a secret, but how can he do that? Mrs Spencer introduces the new cellarman to the staff - the 'fruit of her loins', Timothy.

Norris is closing the Kabin, when Richard arrives. Richard wants to hear no more accusations from Norris but, if he continues to make such allegations, Richard promises to 'shut him up'...

Iain McDougall

Hi there! Unfortunately due to family problems, Janice is unable to do the report tonight, so stepping in is yours truly!

Norris tells Emily how Richard had threatened him, when he was trying to "save" her. Emily believes Richard was in his rights. Norris is continuing to be annoying.

Doreen has prepared breakfast for Maxine and Ashley. Ashley asks if she has any plans for the day. When she says she hasn't, he offers to take her home. She, however, wishes to stay longer. Maxine welcomes her.

It is Deidre's birthday (guess the age - we weren't told!). She is opening her cards and receives one from Tracy. She has booked a holiday for her and Deidre. Ken suspects she is having boyfriend trouble again and wants to talk woman to woman.

Blanche catches Archie talking to Audrey. She suspects there is something going on. She tells him she doesn't want to be messed around. She says she trusts him.

Richard is arguing on the phone with the estate agents. Sales of his luxury apartments are very slow (I think Steve/Karen are the only ones to have bought one!).

Gail comes downstairs and says to Richard that the catering costs for the wedding seems high. Richard says that it is ok. He also wants to order a white Rolls Royce for her.

Vera and Jack are talking about the interest they are getting on their investment. Money could be tight since Jack lost his job at the Rovers. Norris overhears them. v Deidre thinks Blanche may have boyfriend trouble. Blanche says no, it is "Audrey Roberts trouble".

Audrey rushes out of the pub hotly pursued by Blanche. She dashes straight into Archie's car and orders him to drive off quickly. Blanche comes out and Audrey is nowhere to be seen. She thinks is strange how she could have disappeared. As good as Houdini.

Shelley tells Eileen that she shouldn't worry, now that Jason has phoned her mother. He is staying with a friend.

Emily wishes to apologise to Richard for the behaviour of her lodger, Norris. Richard tells her not to worry, and buys her a drink.

Vera asks Norris, in the shop, if he has seen Richard. She tells him that she wants to find out about her investment.

Martin tells Kevin that he is ready to move out, and back into his own home. The landlord has told him the property is ready.

Vera rushes home and tells Jack that Richard is a crook. Norris has told her that he has been swindling Emily.

Blanche confronts Audrey in the street. She says she saw her getting out of Archie's car. They have an argument in the street with Maxine looking on. Maxine invites Audrey in for tea, as previously arranged by Audrey.

Maxine wants to know what is happening. However she is interrupted by Doreen. Maxine asks about her father. Doreen says he knows where to find her if she should wish.

Blanche throws a glass of water at Archie for lying to her. She wants an explanation about what is going on with Audrey.

Jack and Vera go round to see Richard.

Blanche accuses Archie that he is going with Audrey. Archie explains that she is doing hairdressing for bodies. Blanche thinks it is so daft that it maybe true.

Vera asks for a statement from Richard. She says her building society would provide one every couple of months. Richard explains that to get the maximum return from the investment he is keeping the admin costs down. Richard is annoyed when Vera explains what Norris told her. He tells her not to believe him. Vera says that she wants her money back. He explains that she will lose because it is supposed to be a long term investment, and she would be cashing it in too quickly. Vera insists she wants every penny back.

Martin Rosen

In the cafe, Archie is explaining to Blanche that Audrey needed a bit of coaxing to do hairdressing work for him, and that not even Audrey must know that Blanche knows. Of course, Blanche can be relied upon to keep the confidence. (But for how long?) Vera asks Martin if Richard can be trusted; does he not have a dodgy side? Martin assures a worried Vera that Richard can be trusted!

Chez Gail, where the trusty Richard is busy at his laptop preparing (manufacturing, forging?) a financial statement for the Duckworths, whom he tells Gail he is seeing at dinner time. Since Gail has arrived, he suddenly decides to complete it at the office. (Confidential things, financial statements - especially forged ones!) Oh, he adds: "Nick rang - he'll ring back later" and departs.

In the Corner Shop, Deirdre is asking for time off to go on holiday with Tracy, and Dev agrees. "Just think", he says, "of the love and respect Tracy feels for you, just like you have for your mother!" Deirdre hopes that is not the case... Sunita mentions Archie to Blanche and describes him as the 'boyfriend'. Blanche looks on Archie, however, more as 'a good and faithful friend'. (But for how long?)

Norris is serving Karen in the Kabin and he wonders if she misses working. (Karen? Is he kidding?) Karen will only work if she has to - ask the Royal Family, she says. Mrs Spencer is Norris' next customer, but he immediately bars her from the shop, just as he and Rita were barred from her pub. Mrs Spencer (I still can't call her Lillian - I know my place) agrees to reinstate Norris forthwith and breezes out.

Richard is explaining the financial statement to Jack and Vera. Their 'investment' of 20,000 pounds has fallen (only in the short-term, naturally) to some 19,125 pounds, taking into consideration management fees and so on which are paid up-front. Jack and Vera have a quiet (well, loud) debate (well, ding-dong) about what they should do, with Richard advising them to leave the money where it is. (Where's that, then, Richard?) Richard offers to write them a cheque there and then for the latter amount. Jack and Vera think about it...

In the back room of the Rovers, Fred tentatively asks Mrs Spencer what experience her son, Timothy, has of cellar work. Mrs Spencer assures Frederick that 'he's his mother's son - need I say more?' (A reference or two might help, Mrs Spencer...)

In the bar, Timothy is busy building a pyramid of cards, while Shelley and Geena struggle with the beer fonts. Shelley goes off to complain to Fred but, before she can start the tirade, Mrs Spencer appears and advises Shelley that any problems should be addressed to the landlady, not Frederick. The phone rings, and Mrs Spencer picks it up - "Rovers Return, Inn and Brasserie". Shelley is duly ignored, as Mrs Spencer gushes into the phone - "Daahling!"

Jack and Vera, having considered Richard's advice, decide to leave their money 'where it is', and Richard exits the Duckworth's, glancing heavenwards...

... and meets Steve and Karen, who are delighted to hear from Richard that the new flat is theirs.

In the garage, Martin again thanks Kevin for all his help in putting him up, but he is moving out, it seems...

Norris appears in the Rovers, assuring Shelley that he's been reinstated, and orders a dry sherry. Karen asks Steve how long it'll be until they move in to their new flat. "Get a job, Karen!" Vera arrives and berates Norris for having bad-mouthed Richard, one of the most kind and honest of men. (But for how long?) Maria and Maxine arrive and their chat involves speculation about Audrey's frequent absences from the salon with Archie - are they 'at it'? Blanche overhears and reveals the truth in hushed tones. Norris overhears...

... and can't wait to tell someone. Anyone. Martin and Kevin receive the news, and then Les arrives. A young woman breezes (clue!) into the pub and makes her way behind the bar towards the back room, much to Shelley's and Geena's annoyance. Mrs Spencer appears - "daahling!" - and introduces Danielle, her daughter. Do they not see the resemblance? Oh yes, they're both pig-ignorant, Shelley and Geena agree. Audrey enters, and is almost immediately the butt of Les' humour. Audrey, miffed, leaves the pub - her secret is out!

Chez Gail. Nick intends to come over from Canada for the wedding, but can't get a cheap flight. Richard assures Gail, in David's presence, that Nick will be at the wedding.

At the garage, Sally suggests to Kevin that, if he keeps the girls during the Commonwealth Games, she could rent out their room. Agreed.

Steve accosts his wife, returning from yet another shopping trip, and reminds her that she'll have to get a job.

Richard is on the phone to Nick, telling him to book a flight, no matter the cost. He and David agree it's to be a surprise for Gail.

In the back room of the Rovers, Mrs Spencer and her two offspring enjoy a 'happy' family reunion. Geena overhears Mrs Spencer offering her daughter (an aromatherapist) a job, and Geena goes off to impart this snippet to Shelley.

Audrey confronts the now-lugubrious Archie about his obvious betrayal of trust, and he goes off to confront the culprit.

In the back room, Frederick has the doubtful pleasure of meeting Danielle, and Shelley interrupts to tell him that someone wishes to speak to him in the bar. Fred gone, Mrs Spencer's two delightful offspring mention to their mother that she has 'Fat Fred' wrapped around her little finger. (But for how long?) Geena and Shelley deliver their ultimatum to Fred - "Either they go, or we do!"

Archie calls on Blanche. He cannot stand gossip of any kind, and their relationship is over.

Iain McDougall

Rita offers Sally 2 weeks work to cover for Norris whilst he is "doing his bit " for the Commonwealth Games. Sally eagerly accepts, she is feeling the pressure of not having any money and being indoors all the time. Richard comments to Rita , how nice it is to hear laughter so early in the morning. Rita is pleased to see him, she has wanted to have a chat about her investments (Richard had a look of a cat who got the cream or was it my imagination!)

Audrey , worried about what will people will think about her being beautician to the dead seeks advice from Fred. Fred is miles away, justs nods in the right places. Ashley enquires why he didn't chat with Audrey. Fred admits he has problems with his other buisiness. Ashley reminds him who is the Landlord.

Blanche is in tears, Archie has finished with her because she broadcast his secret. Deidre offers to give up her holiday with Tracey. Blanche insists she goes .

Lillian gives Danielle(her daughter) a very caustic rundown on the Rovers Regulars .Danielle comments she hasn't seen a whippet yet!

Archie confides in Audrey that he and Blanche are no more, he finds jealousy unattractive and gossip makes a person ugly. Audrey misreads the situation and thanks him,admits she is flattered but their relationship is purely professional. Archie looks confused ,then makes light of it.Also he thinks that Blanche will be a hard act to follow.

Peter agrees to keep an eye on Blanche whilst Ken & Deidre go off to London.As they are setting off Deidre spots Archie, gives him a piece of her mind. Archie is unrepentent, he and Blanche are finished .

Betty, has come back from Wimbledon as her house has been sold.Calls to see Blanche. Blanche wonders when did she turn into a Biddy,she feels old, her bones are aching. She didn't feel like this when she was with Archie. Betty talks about how busy Caroline is , what a beautiful house they have and how she spends most of her day's alone. Caroline has been showing her brochures of the Old folks home her own mother is in.

Back in the Rovers, Fred asks Lillian how long her offspring were staying , as he had hopes of their buisness partnership turning into to something more special. I think a shared bathroom was mentioned.Liilian likens herself to a rose that need to be nurtured.

Ashley wants rid of Doreen. Max phones her dad , leaves a message that her Mum is crying all the time. Doreen overhears, tells Maxine not to interfere.

It's Fred's turn to bend Audrey's ear, Audrey has realised that he isn't as enamoured as he was. Fred doesn't want the cocktail hour she has suggested and he doesn't want her family taking over.

Peter and Shelley phone Blanche from the rovers to see how she is, Blanche thinking it is Archie runs downstairs and falls. When they recieve no reply, Shelley jokes about Blanche falling downstairs.(little do they know)

Lillian is stood behind the bar, takes a sweeping look over the Rovers, sends Danielle to tell Timothy to pack they are going, the Rovers isn't what she expected. Fred doesn't stand her way when she explains that she is going to join Roger Fairbanks ,who own's a coaching Inn in Marple.

Blanche lies unconscious at the bottom of the stairs

Janette

Morning, and poor Blanche is still lying in the hallway after falling down the stairs. She manages to move when the post is pushed through the letterbox, and we see a large gash on her brow...

Eileen calls on Sally (Sally's birthday today!) and invites her for a drink at lunchtime. Sally's not too keen, but Kevin, who's picking up the girls, persuades her to go for that drink with Eileen, who says she's missing Jason. (Oh yeh?) Sorted!

Peter and Shelley arrive to check up on Blanche, but she doesn't answer the door and Peter concludes that she's having a lie-in. Anyway, Peter is glad that he doesn't have to see her in her nightie and curlers...

Chez Peacock, where Maxine, Ashley and Doreen are having breakfast. Doreen berates Ashley for his massive fry-up, which will only clog his arteries. Ashley admits to doing some exercise - going to the shop - but Doreen is not impressed. According to her, Ashley ought to do a spot of gardening, so that she can enjoy her time with Josh in the back garden, and Ashley once again asks her how long she is staying. Ever evasive, Doreen disappears upstairs to do her 'stretches', and Maxine, continuing to chomp on her cereal, declines to join her Mum.

Back room of the Rovers. Now that Mrs Spencer and her offspring have gone, Geena and Shelley (both of whom are apparently going through a midriff crisis) debate the topic: "Who will now be put in charge while Fred is off on holiday?". Fred appears, and the girls conclude that Fred has 'got rid' of his erstwhile protegee and thank him for not being as spineless as they thought. Fred accepts their thanks, in silence. (Yes, in silence, I say, in silence!)

The Kabin. Rita asks Audrey's opinion about Richard, while Norris hovers in the background. Audrey assures Rita that, while she had some misgivings a while ago, she now trusts Richard completely. Fred enters the Kabin and informs them all that Mrs Spencer is now 'no longer of this parish', so he invites Rita back into the fold of the Rovers. Rita accepts his invitation gracefully, just as long as the drinks are on him. Agreed! Archie enters and wonders if Audrey has had second thoughts about their professional relationship. Well, Mrs Kershaw has cancelled her blow-dry, probably after hearing Blanche's gossip, but the deal is still on.

Back with Blanche, who still remains motionless on the floor...

At Sally's, Kevin, Rosie and Sophie are baking a cake for Sally's birthday, Kevin very much the devoted, and happy, father. Sophie goes off to find a suitable mixing bowl and the one she finds brings happy memories flooding back to Kevin - it was a wedding present for Sally and him.

In the Rovers, Fred complains to Audrey and Archie that he has the problem of choosing one of his barmaids to run the pub in his absence - but which one? Archie's thoughts are elsewhere - he has the unenviable task of going round to Blanche's to retrieve his dance records. (Fred thinks that his own problem of getting rid of Lillian {I said the dreaded word, at last!!} pales with Archie's split with Blanche!) Richard, the ever-smiling, plies Rita with brochures about possible financial services, while the ever-vigilant Norris advises Rita to be cautious, after Richard has gone of course.

Archie, not having the door opened to him at Blanche's, looks through the letterbox and sees his ex-paramour lying on the floor. He puts his not-inconsiderable girth to the door and bursts it open... ... and Blanche is eventually carted off to hospital, Peter offering to accompany her, while Shelley takes a doleful Archie to the pub for a recuperative brandy.

In the Rovers, Eileen and Sally enjoy a quiet drink, Eileen advising Sally to enjoy what she has - her family - while she still has that. Sally sallies home. Fred wants a 'word' with Shelley, and they disappear into the back room. Karen manages to cajole Steve into doing some 'window shopping' in town, just to look at furniture for their new flat. Archie tells a few friends that Blanche looked frightened in the ambulance. Fred offers Shelley the temporary job as manager of the pub. Shelley is deeelighted, but Geena is most certainly not, as she overhears their conversation.

Sally gets home, to find Kevin and the girls have made her a cake and festooned the house with balloons and paper decorations. She is delighted at this fuss being made of her.

In a fancy shop in town, Karen and Steve look around at the furniture on offer. A smarmy assistant arrives, and enquires about the "look" which they're seeking - is it, perhaps, "urban lounge living"? Karen thinks that's exactly what she wants.

Sally is enjoying her birthday with her children and, well, Kevin. It all seems like 'happy families', but Kevin has yet another surprise for her...

Back in the Rovers, Steve and Karen discuss their 'window shopping' trip into town. Karen would like them to emulate Posh and Becks, but Steve insists that their finances can't stretch to Karen's obvious aspirations. Ashley is taking refuge from Doreen, bemoaning his plight to Fred, when Doreen (fresh from her 'stretches' maybe?) appears for a gin and tonic. Ashley takes immediate flight, after promising Doreen that the garden centre was closed. Fred seems very welcoming (over-welcoming?) to Doreen. (Gush, gosh!!)

Peter comforts Blanche in hospital, when the hapless Blanche sees the curtain part and expects Archie. It's not. It's Shelley. Blanche seems quite well, but tired.

Bck again at Sally's, where Kevin and she, over a couple of cans of beer (do they not have beer glasses in Weatherfield?) talk about past birthdays, and happiness. Kevin, full of the joys of the day, suggests to Sally that it would make sense if he moved in again, instead of her looking for some lodgers. Sally cannot believe what she is hearing and orders him out.

Iain McDougall

To any French readers - today is Bastille Day. Bonjour! It looks like someone's head could be for the chop tonight, in the last scenes!!!

Ashley comes in from the garden, complaining of backache. Doreen thinks he should be doing more out there.

Archie visits Blanche in hospital. She is very pleased to see him. She believes what happened was a judgement for talking about Audrey. Archie (foolishly) asks if there is anything he can do for her. Blanche says she has a list of "jobs".

Kevin calls round to Sally's. He says he didn't plan what he said the previous night. However he thinks it would make sense if he moved in. There would be a lot of savings in bills. Sally insists that he is not moving back in.

Norris advises Rita against investing with Richard. He says he is only telling her that as he is trying to protect her.

Doreen comes in to the Kabin and says she is looking for a handyman to help with the garden. Les offers.

Ken arrives at the hospital. He says he has just returned from the hospital seeing Deidre and Tracy off, and then heard the news. Archie brings in a suitcase full of clothes for Blanche. He says he couldn't find all she wanted so he bought brand new. Ken feels a bit uncomfortable, and makes his excuses to leave. Blanche tells Archie that when she leaves hospital she may need help getting about.

Rosie brings home a letter from school about a holiday in Spain. Sally says not only is unfair to Sophie if she went, but she (Sally) can't afford it anyway. Rosie yells that she is being unfair and threatens to ring her father. Sally tells her not to.

Gail hopes that Richard will sort out Rita's investments wisely. Not only is she a good friend, but a neighbour.

Maxine and Ashley comes in from the shopping, and are greeted by Doreen. They are surprised to find Len working in the garden.

Richard goes round to see Rita to discuss things financial. Norris offers to stay, but Rita tells him to go. Rita explains to Richard that she doesn't want to invest, she has changed her mind. Richard is astonished and obviously annoyed.

Shelley starts pulling her weight behind the bar, now she is in charge, towards Gina.

Norris is in training in the Rovers for the Commonwealth Games. He is doing it in support of the athletes. He says he is going to walk until he has to stop. Emily thinks he may manage ten minutes.

Sarah wants to invite Aide to the wedding. Gail says she doesn't want him, and tells her to invite Candice as her friend.

Karen and Steve are looking through furniture catalogues. Karen has high expectations. Steve tries to bring her down to earth.

Maxine tells Les that her dad is coming to pick up his wife. Les says that he won't get far according to what Doreen said to him.

Rita tells Emily that she changed her mind regarding investing with Richard. She doesn't want tie up her money for years.

Norris is walking down the street when Richard pulls up alongside of him. Norris is persuaded into the car.

Ashley and Maxine are planning the christening celebrations. They don't want Doreen to get involved.

Richard takes Norris out of town. Richard tells him not to talk about him to other people. He takes him to the spot where Doggie died. He frightens Norris by telling him other people may have died there as well in the past as it is an old house. Richard then threatens Norris

Martin Rosen

Tricky Dicky's House of Death
Tricky leads the way into the house with Old Mother Norris trembling in his wake. As Richard climbs the stairs Norris asks him why they're there. Richard tells him to follow him and he'll find out. Norris now panicking asks where Duggie died and in his best pantomime villain voice Richard replies "That very spot". Norris gasps and makes a run for it but he's no match for Richard. Richard berates Norris for losing him money while Norris tries to make Richard see that he'll be missed. Dragging him up the stairs, Richard tells Norris he wants him to hear his side of the story.

Gail and Tricky's
Gail and Sarah are sitting on the sofa watching the box. There's a knock at the door in the tradition of all parents with a handy servant Gail tells Sarah to see who it is. Sarah refuses and Gail points out that it could be Ade and if it is then it gives Sarah the opportunity to tell him he's not invited to the wedding. Sarah refuses to tell him that and Gail says that if Sarah invites him in then she'll quite happily tell him. Bethany starts crying and Gail tells Sarah again to get the door while she's up. It's Audrey at the door not Ade and Sarah huffily points out that it wasn't for her after all before storming off upstairs.

Chez Peacock
Love's Young Dream are sitting on the sofa watching a comedy programme while Doreen lets Les in. She tells him to make himself at home so Les pushes his way between Max and Ash on the sofa to watch the TV. Angrily Ash asks why Les is here and Doreen says for the money to do the back garden. Surprise surprise Doreen hasn't any money and asks Ash to give the layabout £60. Ash only has £30 which Les takes.

Tricky Dicky's House of Death
Richard's giving Norris a tour of the show flat while telling him the state of disrepair the whole house was in when he got it. Norris thinks it's very nice which angers Richard as everything in it is top of the range. He's sweated blood and had many a sleepless night over the making of these flats. Norris tells him he just wants to go home. Richard tells him to take off his shoes. Norris doesn't want to but Richard tells him that if Norris thinks he's capable of killing someone then it would be better for Norris to do as he's told. Norris admits that Richard's really scaring him but Richard assures him that he's not trying to do that, he just wants to make a point.

Gail and Tricky's
Audrey and Gail are chatting in the kitchen. Audrey tells Gail that although she had her doubts about Richard she knows she was wrong and he'll make a good step-father and husband..and maybe dad too? Gail starts to laugh but Audrey tells her that she's made a will.

Tricky Dicky's House of Death
Norris has taken his shoes off. Richards asks him as a man who rents a room in a terraced house has he ever felt a carpet of that quality beneath his feet before. Norris admits he hasn't (we're obviously supposed to forget that Norris was once married to the very wealthy Angela and probably lived in a rather large house fully carpeted). Richard invites Norris to walk around to get the feel of the pile and to look around the rest of the flat. Norris wants to go but Richard wants him to look around more.

Gail and Tricky's
Audrey says that working with Archie's clients has brought things home to her. She now knows that when she's gone Gail, Richard and family will be well looked after.

Emergency Ward 10
Ken's been to visit Blanche. As he goes to leave she asks him to wheel the phone in for her. Ken says he'll be in to see her tomorrow but Blanche says Archie will be bringing her home so there's no need. Ken says he pleased to see they're obviously back together then, Blanche says nothing then reminds him to wheel the phone in for her.

Tricky Dicky's House of Death
Norris is putting his shoes back on while Richard recounts a story of his childhood. He and his mother went to stay with Richard's aunt. They had a lovely carpet in their room and Richard's mum wanted the same. Eventually they did get a fitted carpet in their front room. Proper underlay not newspaper, no rug to hid the bad patches. 2 days after it was fitted Richards mum was up a ladder painting when she knocked a whole tin of white gloss all over it. His mother cried all night and it was also the 1st time he'd ever seen his mother cry. Surprising the moral of the tale isn't to make sure your new carpet is protected when up a ladder or to get adequate household insurance like Norris suggested. Richard decided that he wanted the very best carpets although he was advised that wooden floors were the way forward. Feeling braver Norris wants to know why he's still being kept there. Richard asks him how much he thinks the place is worth but Norris has no idea. Richard tells him each flat is on the market for over £120,000 and one is already sold with the other likely to go very quickly. He then asks Norris how much Emily Bishop's home reversion scheme is worth to him - about £20k apparently. He then smugly asks Norris with all the facts he has does he really think that he would kill someone for £20k when he was going to make a fortune on the flats? Norris asks him how much he would risk killing someone for. The smile evaporated from Tricky's face.

Gail and Tricky's
Audrey's totting up her worth to a bemused Gail. The house is worth £130k and Alma left her £40k and there's the salon but she's no idea how much that's worth. It also turns out that she's not left Stephen anything as he's doing so well for himself in Canada. Audrey tells Gail that her need is greater with all the kids and also that when she dies Audrey trusts Gail to do the right thing by everybody.

Tricky Dicky's House of Death
The moods changed since our last visit. We're outside the flat on the landing while Richard and Norris are inside although the door keeps opening slightly then being slammed shut. Richard's shouting at Norris that he's a vicious old gossip but Norris tells him he's not listening. Norris asks for the door to be opened, he wants to call the police, there's a scuffle and the sound of something breaking and silence. After a few seconds a subdued looking Richard opens the door and steps out. Richard apologises and a wary Norris appears. Norris says it's ok and they should go home. All the fight seems to have left Richard. He tells Norris all he's ever wanted was to be a good family man. He grew up in a tatty house with mouldy shower curtains but now he has Gail, David, Sarah and Bethany to look out for and he only wants the best for them. They're going to have a family home and he's going to work hard to see they get it. He starts getting angry again. He approaches Norris menacingly and asks him why he's trying to stop all that, why's he trying to turn all his clients against him, Why's he trying to ruin him? Pathetically Norris tries to deny it all but he's backed into a corner of his own making. Actually he's being backed into the banisters where Douggie fell from. Richard lets rip. He tells Norris that he's a sad, lonely old man and gossip makes him feel important. He goes on that he doesn't see why his business should suffer just so that Norris can add a bit of colour to his drab little life. Magnanimously and because he's seen just how far the drop is behind him Norris admits that maybe he has misunderstood Richard but he was threatened by him. Richard admits it but that was to just shut him up. Calmly Richard tells Norris that after everything he's done and everything Norris has seen if he still feels Richard deserves it then not to tell Emily or Rita or Vera but to ring the police. He pulls out his mobile phone and tells Norris he only has to press "send" and he'll be through to the police, he can tell them whatever he wants. What does Norris want to do? He has the choice of telling the police all his suspicions or leaving him the hell alone.

Ads - never mind the tea, I need a stiff drink!

A Grassy Place
We see a shovel cutting into some turf

The Kabin
Sally comments to Rita about the non-appearance of Norris and how unlike him it is to be late. Rita thinks it's got something to do with the Commonwealth games. Neither of them can wait for the games to start, Rita to get rid of Norris and Sally so she can start work. Sally mentions how tight financially things are and how she's had to stop Rosie from going on holiday with one of her friends. Rita asks her why she won't let Kevin help and Sal tells the whole sorry tale of Kev wanting to move back in. Rita asks if he wants to get back romantically and Sal says that he says no but do either of them believe him?

Gail and Tricky's
Richard comes in, he tells Gail he's been with a very difficult client. Speaking of difficult, jokes Gail, here's Sarah. Gail asks her if she wants a cuppa but a frosty no is the reply. Sarah asks for the baby wipes which Gail throws gently to her and Sarah stalks back upstairs, turning halfway up to say "Thank you Mother" very sarcastically. Richard asks what that's all about and Gail says it's her. She's told Sarah that she's not allowed to invite Ade to the wedding. Richard thinks Gail is going about the whole thing wrong. Gail is making Ade more attractive by banning him and anyway think of the pictures. Grumpy bridesmaid with no Ade and smiley bridesmaid with him there.

Chez Peacock
Doreen announces that she's done some research and has found a church for them to have Joshua christened. Ash, who's in the kitchen with her tells her that they'll do that themselves. While Doreen's twittering on about the different churches and their function rooms she tidies away the butter Ash is using and generally makes a nuisance of herself. She tells Ash he should be using a low fat spread and as a treat she'll make them a vegetable soup and salad dinner at 12:30. Ash tells her not to bother as he'll be going to the Rovers for his dinner. It's difficult to tell who's the most fed up of her out of Ash and Maxime.

The Kabin
Richard comes in and Rita's pleased to see that she's not lost his custom despite him losing hers. Richard tells her he doesn't bear grudges. A frantic Norris appears. He's late because he had to get Emily's prescription for yet another migraine and the chemist was blah blah blah and he blah blah blah...Rita tells him about 10 times that it doesn't matter. Richard asks him for a quick word. He apologises to Norris for him being so over the top and for some of the things he said the previous evening but the truth is Norris had been really trying his patience. Norris apologises too and admits he's made a bit of a fool out of himself about the whole thing. They shake hands must to Rita's amazement and Norris wishes him and Gail all the best for the wedding. Richard leaves but Norris has a faraway look in his eyes.

The Street
Les is unloading some rolls of turf from his taxi and takes them to Chez Peacock's.

Blanche has arrived home - with Ken. It seems Archie was "too busy" with clients to be able to make it but Blanche doesn't mind. As Blanche enters Ken's house Archie slips out of Audrey's salon. Archie admits he told Blanche a lie about being at the Crem all morning. Audrey tells him it looks odd him skulking around especially in his line of business, he should tell Blanche the truth. Archie doesn't feel that he can kick Blanche while she's down but Audrey tells him that as he stares death in the face every day and has to deal with the bereaved then it shouldn't be that much of a problem. He agrees and hurries over to Ken's.

Rovers Return - Bar
Ash is having a pint with Kev and Martin when he hears Doreen's dulcet tones shouting across the pub to him. She asks him why he's not come home for his dinner, Ash points out that he'd already told her that he wasn't. With Kev and Martin sniggering behind him he has to put up with Doreen moaning about them waiting for him and how beer's not a balanced meal...yadda yadda yadda. Also Les can't get in to the back as there's no key to the gate and how upset will Max be if he has to traipse the lot through the house across her carpets...yadda yadda yadda. Ash gives in and tells the others to finish his virtually untouched beer as he follows Doreen home.

Ken's
Ken brings Archie through to see Blanche who's propped up on the sofa with her plastered leg on a foot stool. She's very pleased to see him and Ken leaves them to it. He offers to bring her something nice for tea but Blanche announces that she and Archie will be dining out - her treat. Archie thinks it's not a good idea and Blanche pointedly asks Ken to hurry up and go. Blanche twitters on about how they'll go for a nice drive in the country to find somewhere to eat and how glad she is that they're over their little rocky patch. Taking the bull by the horns Archie tells her that she's misunderstanding his interest in her now. He was concerned about her as a friend but that's as far as it goes, they're not "together" any more. Bravely Blanche tells him that's no way to treat an invalid and would she like her to see him to the door, crippled with pain like she is? Flustered, Archie sees himself out and Blanche sobs as soon as she hears the door shut behind him.

Gail and Tricky's
Gail kicks her shoes off and both she and Richard sit on the sofa while Gail asks him about his day. Richard tells her it wasn't too bad, he's shown a couple round the flats and it won't be long before they're all sold and they'll be sitting pretty. Gail tells him that they're already sitting pretty and tells him about the will and how she's the main beneficiary. When it's all totalled up Audrey will be leaving her close to £250,000 (I'm not sure where the other £80k is coming from). Richard tells her that by the time Audrey dies they'll have so much money that £250k will seem like peanuts.

Chez Peacock's
It seems it's Doreen who's lost the key to the gate so Les is having to traipse through the house with the turf. Doreen starts hoovering while they're eating and has to do the lounge first at Maxime's request. Ash takes the opportunity to tell Max that he can't take any more of Doreen and she has to go. Doreen appears. Guess what she's just sucked up with the hoover? That's right the key to the gate. Never mind, she tells Ash, he can delve around in the bag to find it later. Laughing she goes back to her hoovering and Ash puts his foot down, she's going back to her husband if he has to drag her there himself.

Roll credits.

Apologies for being late but had visitors last night ,who wouldn't go home.

Ashley is desperate to get rid of Doreen, is positive that if she makes the first move Derek will take her back. Doreen doesn't want to make the first move but will go to see him. Maxine agrees to go ,then decides to make it a family outing , taking Josh and Ashley along..

Richard is estatic another flat has been sold, makes a joke about marrying an heiress. David is bouncing a football around the house. Gail sends him off to the Red Wreck.

Blanche is home, Shelley pops in to see if there is anything she wants. Blanche dolefully replies" there is no medicine for the ache she has" She misses Archie.

Les has laid turf in Ashley's back garden. It has a penalty spot on and lines. After hearing David moaning that someone has stolen the turf off the Red Wrecks football pitch, realises that his turf is stolen goods. Demands that Les takes it up before he calls the police. Les lays it on his flagged yard.

Richard thanks Audrey for being so generous with her will, although he promises to take care of Gail and her family financially .

Candice is a bit put out that Sarah Lou has invited Aid ,not her to Gail's wedding. Sarah asks Aid to behave at the wedding as it her mum's special day. Audrey has invited archie as he is good company. Gail wonders what will happen when Blanche finds out.

Doreen can't get her key to fit her marital home's front door. The door is open by Derek's fancy piece(Was she a traffic warden in Brookie?) and a slanging match ensues. Doreen returns to Maxines, much to Ashley's dismay.

Rosie is sick of Beans and Toast( falls over in shock) , she is sick of being poor and not having anything.

Richard with a wild look on his face describes to Gail his plan for the future, a big house ,a family etc. Gail seems a little shocked at his intensity.

Davis spots the turf in Les' backyard, kicks the ball , smashes a window . Legs it sharpish. Les can't believe the disrespect that is shown to other people's property.

Maxine is on a mission to get her parents back together again.

Janette

In the first of a few visits chez Peacock, Ashley tells Maxine to go and talk to her Dad. (Doreen is upstairs sleeping.) He says (lies!) that it was nice having her in their home, but she'd be happier at home with Derek. Maxine promises to try to patch things up between her battling parents.

Karen arrives in the cafe, complete with a new hair style and some very chic clothes. She meets Steve and explains that she's excited about going for an interview for a job, but Steve is very suspicious (so are we!), especially when the proposed employer remains a secret.

Chez Gail, and David finds some brochures for houses on the table. Richard goes into "salesman" mode and explains to David that one of the houses even has a pool room where he could bring his pals for pool, videos and music. David is immediately won over to Richard's plans.

Maxine arrives at her Dad's house, where Donna is now the lady of the house, and Maxine uses her persuasive talents to talk her Dad into meeting with Doreen to talk things over - he owes Doreen that much, surely? Donna, however, looks like a fairly permanent fixture...

Again at Gail's, and Martin arrives to pick up David. Richard and Martin chat about their respective jobs and Richard suggests to Martin that he (Richard) is doing rather nicely at the moment and is willing to forego Martin's financial support for the children. Martin blows a fuse, and makes it clear to Richard that he can pay his dues. (That rhymed there!)

Back to the Peacock household, and Derek arrives, only to enlighten Ashley about some of the 'attributes' of Doreen - she is not gifted in conversation, for part of that means listening. Moreover, she detests all sport, including footie, golf, cricket and even snooker. Derek reckons it's just like being released from prison, not living with her any more. (Doreen is upstairs drying her hair.)

Sally and Rosie walk along the street, Rosie giving her Mum a hard time about the proposed Spanish trip, which Sally can't afford. Sally meets Gail, who suggests a drink in the Rovers, but Sally declines - she has things to do. Steve meets Richard and asks him about his Stag Night. Richard hadn't planned one, but Steve will arrange it all.

Betty arrives, once more, in the Rovers with Emily, and Betty begins to describe her life with Gordon and Caroline in London. Emily listens, but is not convinced that her old friend is happy staying there. Behind the bar, Shelley has a quick 'word' with Geena - there is a dearth of mixers in the bar, and Geena should have planned ahead better. Geena scowls. Gail tells Richard that she's going to see Sally - she's worried about her. An ebullient Karen breezes in, to tell her husband that she's landed the job. Guess where, she asks, and Steve's worst fears are realised - it's a job at Elevation, the up-market furniture store in town. She starts tomorrow. (That's the good news.) Karen goes on to tell Steve that, working there, she gets a staff discount of 10%, so she's just bought the sofa she wanted. (That's the bad news.)

Back at the Peacock's, and Doreen comes downstairs to face Derek, who admits that he 'has come to his senses'; he doesn't want her back. Maxine lets them both know that she and Ashley had their differences (we remember that!) but that they talked it over and sorted things out. Maxine and Ashley leave Doreen and Derek to sort things out too...

Gail calls on Sally, and they talk about Sally's problems - money money money. Sally confesses that she could solve her financial problems if Kevin moved back in, but Gail mentions passion and love...

In the Rovers, Steve demands that Karen asks for her money back on the sofa order, but Karen has her sights set on new cushions, new everything!

Back at Sally's, where we hear Sally saying to Gail that, well, it wouldn't be such a bad idea if Kevin were to move back in...

In the Rovers, Ashley and Maxine are having a rest from the battle across the road, both being quite optimistic about the outcome...

... while, over the road, the battle has become out and out war, with a nasty divorce in the offing. Ashley and Maxine arrive home, only to find that Derek and Doreen agree on one thing - if they didn't know where they stood before, they do now!!

In the Rovers, Karen is boasting to Janice and Fiz about her new job. (Yawn!) Emily learns more about Betty's life in London - Betty is lonely, and is not welcomed by Caroline; that's the truth. Emily encourages Betty to move back to her home in Weatherfield.

Sally and Gail continue their talk about Kevin's moving-in again. After much discussion, Sally agrees that it would be a bad idea, and it would all end in tears. (Has Sally seen sense?)

In the street, David is boasting to Rosie about his imminent trip to Florida and his new house, complete with full-size snooker table. Martin appears, and learns about Richard's plans... Martin storms into Gail's house and confronts Richard, whom he accuses of trying to take his own kids from him - no way!

Derek eventually takes his leave of Doreen, and deposits his wedding ring on the table - he'll not need that again. Nor will he need the strawberry magnetic fridge magnet, which Doreen used to use to append messages to him on the frequent occasions when they were 'incommunicado'. Doreen weeps. Derek leaves, promising that he's going off to pick up the keys to his new convertible - he's got a lot of years to catch up on... ... while a weeping Doreen is assured by her daughter that she can stay with them for as long as she likes. Problem solved. (Ashley looks ever more depressed by the episode!)

Iain McDougall

'tis me again! Hopefully by next Sunday you will have a brand new scriber. Just getting her trained up at the moment, "... now Martin is Gail's ex, but has also had affairs with a nurse, Sally ....", and Gail is on marriage number three, to a guy who is on his second or is it third, or maybe fourth marriage ...". Actually just perm any two from 20 as long as they male/female you can bet you'll be close to a previous script!!

Tonight starts off with Gail defending Martin to Richard about the maintenance payments. Richard says he was trying to be helpful, but wished he never opened his mouth.

Gail mentions that he has not heard from Nick whether he can get over for the wedding. Richard tells her not to worry as she will hear.

Gail worries about the cost of everything, but he tells her not to worry. He says he is looking forward to having a real home with a real family.

Ashley tells Maxine that Doreen will have to face reality. He is tempted to throw her out.

Janice and Fizz see Karen all dressed up for her job in the furniture store. The ridicule what her job is about. They suggest it is just like Norris's behind the till all day.

Maxine asks Doreen why she didn't tell her that her father was having an affair. Doreen says she was hoping that it would fizzle out. Doreen says she will go to get out of their way, but Maxine insists she stays.

Richard tells Audrey that Nick is on his way from Vancouver (wherever that is :-) ). He is up in the sky now.

Richard tries to apologise to Martin, but Martin is not interested in hearing his apology.

Shelley realises that Gina has a night off tonight. It is the night of the hen party and she will be left on her own. (Where is Fred when you need him?!). Gina reminds Shelley that it was her that prepared the rota. Shelley said she didn't realise at the time there was a party.

Sally talks to Eileen about Kevin wanting to move back in. Eileen says she has noted that Kevin is round at the house very frequently.

Martin discusses with Kevin about Richard. Martin says he can't compete with what Richard can offer financially to Gail and the family. Kevin tells him not to argue if he wants to keep the family together. Gail would be bound to side with Richard for their marriage.

Audrey comes round to Maxine's house to invite Doreen to Gail's hen night party.

Richard gets a text message on his mobile phone (do other countries call them "cell phones"?). It is from Nick to say that his flight has been cancelled and the others are fully booked with people coming for the Commonwealth Games.

Gail invites Martin round when the kids are out. Martin immediately thinks it was to prevent him from seeing them. She explains to Martin how hard Richard has been working to integrate himself into the family. In particular with David who can be difficult at times. Martin says he doesn't want anyone to come between him and his kids. Gail promises that nothing will.

Sally is reluctant to go to the hen night party. She thinks that Kevin may use the fact that he would have to take the kids as another opportunity to suggest that he moves in again.

Gina leaves her duty as the bar begins to fill up. Shelley is looking very worried. (Where is Fred, I say where is Fred? - after all it is Sunday).

Sally gives Rosie to Kevin to look after. Sophie is staying at her friend's. Eileen thinks he seemed ok about it all. Sally says he is hardly likely to say anything in front of Rosie. Eileen thinks it would be ok for Kevin to move back in.

Karen tells the people in the pub that she loves her new job. Joe tries to put her down.

Joe suggests to Gina that she does the shift that evening, that way she will be one over on Shelley.

Eileen says to Steve that her lease is due for renewal. Steve says he would agree to another 6 months extension. Eileen then complains about all the faults on the property. Steve agrees to look at them.

Gail is having her hen night party. Suddenly Richard comes in to Gail's surprise. She tells him he shouldn't be there. Then Richard tells her that he has a surprise for her. He takes her to the entrance where Nick is waiting. They embrace. The text message he received earlier was sent the night before and for some reason it wasn't received till this morning.

Eileen confides in Sally that Gail has what they both want .... happiness.

Martin Rosen

It's the day of the wedding, and Gail and Richard are obviously happy. Gail asks him if he wants to change his mind - 'as if!' - he'll make this a day to remember. We hear the dulcet tones of David and Sarah from upstairs; 'Get out the bathroom!', 'Bog off!' (I refrain from pointing out the horrible pun - oops!!)

Chez Sally, where Rosie is still sulking about her non-trip to Spain. However, Sophie says she likes weddings, for people smile and are happy. Sophie wonders if Gail and Richard will really get married - her Mum and Danny didn't... Sally is off to work in the Kabin.

In the cafe, Karen shows Steve a brochure with a 'cool' bookshelf, just right for their new classy flat. Footballers have them, she says. Steve points out that they don't exactly have any books, but Karen will buy some. Steve wonders if his wife has read any books, and asks her to name one. 'Great Expectations! she retorts immediately. 'By?' 'Charles Darwin' she replies without hesitation. (Charles Dickens, Karen...)

Back at Gail's, where Audrey arrives with Nick. She spies David and admires his gear, saying that, if she were 40 years younger... (Something "old"). Gail notices Nick's new suit, which Richard has bought... (Something "new").

In the Kabin, Karen arrives to tell Steve that the search (a legal requirement when buying a house in the UK) has been completed and they can collect the keys. Steve and Karen are pleased. Kevin is placing an advert in the window for a mechanic and Sally suggests he contact the Job Centre. Good idea, thinks Kevin, and departs. Rita makes an aside to Sally about not faulting a man who loves his kids.

Again at Gail's, where Richard tries to persuade Nick to report the mugging to the police, for he needs a crime number to claim on insurance. (Tsk tsk - I thought that Richard had bought the suit as a gift. Silly me!) Sarah overhears their conversation and Nick admits to her that it was two girls who mugged him, but not a word to Mum.

In the Rovers, Geena, smiling, advises Shelley that, if she were the manager, she'd do the books every day, rather than leave them until the end of the week. Shelley doesn't smile.

Gail's, and Maria arrives to do hair, while Nick looks on very approvingly. Roger, the best man, arrives and invokes the dislike of David for his remark that all kids now can only think of walkmans (should that be 'walkmen'?) and videos. Richard gets Roger to ring the car hire firm and confirm the time of pick-up. Ade arrives, to be welcomed with an admonishment by Gail to behave himself. Bad news from the car firm - Richard's cheque has bounced, so there won't be any cars.

In the Rovers, Tyrone and Kirk debate marriage and its pitfalls, just as a frantic Richard rushes in to plead with Steve to help in his car-less situation, but Steve has no cars free. Kirk continues his views on marriage to Tyrone; just live together, for women have a different mindset. (Lucky women!) Karen is the bearer of bad news to Steve. The search has turned up that the council has given planning permission for a bail hostel next door to their dream flat. Karen will strangle Richard...

Gail's again, and the hapless bridegroom and his best man phone round for cars. David picks up the wedding rings box and heads upstairs... (Something "borrowed").

In the Kabin, Norris is waxing eloquent about his part in the Commonwealth Games' opening ceremony. He won't be seen on camera, for he's a 'back-room boy' who shuns publicity. (I hope he's successful!)

Back to Gail's, where Maria is busy doing Sarah's hair. Candice arrives and seems to fancy Nick, who only has eyes for Maria. David laughs about 'borrowing' the wedding rings.

In the Kabin, Sally blames teenage magazines for Rosie's truculence. Rosie has even claimed that her new dress is 'mingin', which Sally says is the latest teenage slang word. (Where have you been, Sally?) Norris is still effusive about his duties at the Games, but Les arrives to stave the boredom and drive him off to Manchester, but not before Norris reminds Rita to set the video. Kevin agrees to share a car with Sally and the girls to the wedding.

Chez Gail, and Audrey saves the day with cars - Archie will provide four limousines, with not a hearse in sight. Nick arrives downstairs to be met by Richard - has he phoned the police yet? He will. Roger discovers that he's lost the rings.

In the Rovers, Karen thinks that they've bought a pile of junk. Betty tells Emily that she's been at 37 weddings in the street, and adds that she's going to accept a lower offer on her house, for she can't cope with all the hassle. Shelley moans to Peter about Geena's being so nice all the time - but with added snide comments.

In Sarah's bedroom, Nick orders David to give back the rings, for Mum's in tears. They look for the rings, but only find the box, empty. Little Bethany is on her potty close by, and they conclude that she's swallowed them. Sarah arrives and shows the gormless pair that she's been trying her Mum's ring on. Panic over. (Something "blue"? - not yet.)

Les' taxi has a puncture (dodgy, illegal tyre!!) and Norris, impatient to get to the Games, gets his shell-suit dirty.

Gail's yet again. Does Gail deserve all this happiness? Family hug...

Norris eventually gets on his way in Les' taxi, only to be told that a return journey will be impossible.

Roger is going over his speech at Gail's, and Richard asks him not to dwell on the past. Audrey mentions to Nick that Maria has the hots for him. Sarah asks him if he doesn't have a girlfriend in Canada, to which he replies "sort of". Sarah thinks those "sort-of" girlfriends are the best ones... {And now for the "Something blue" - thought I'd forgotten?} Just as Richard assures Gail that 'nothing more can go wrong', the doorbell rings and Richard finds two policemen ("boys in blue") on the doorstep, wishing to speak to him about the disappearance of his ex-wife...

Iain McDougall

For the very first time tonight I present you all with a new reporter ..... please give a big hand to Emma Harrison, who reports on our hour long episode featuring Gail and Richard's wedding.

Tonight's episode opens with the police making a routine enquiry about Richards missing ex wife. Whilst Richard is outside talking to the police, Maria tries to focus everyone's attention back inside the house to the wedding by offering to style David's hair.

Shelley corners Geena behind the bar to ask her if she is free to work Saturday night. Geena is not happy about being asked especially as she is still bitter about Fred not appointing her as stand-in manageress whilst he is away.

Police let Richard know that they are checking flight details to see if his ex wife did leave the country in the first place. Richard smiles, awkwardly.

Nick asks Maria if she will style his hair. 'Anytime,' she smirks. David shocks everyone by announcing that Richard has been escorted into a police car only to discover that a message from their Neighbouring Copper Emma coming from the car radio wishing him luck for his big day!

Gail questions Richard about the appearance of the police, 'a routine call, went in one ear and out the other.' Gail then drops her bracelet on the floor.

Roy walks into the Rovers with a new suit on. 'You'll turn a few heads in that Roy, ' Shelley teased.

Emily confides in Steve, Karen, Martin and Geena that she is attending the wedding purely as a guest and not as a friend.

The guests gather outside of the Rovers Return to see the Blushing bride setting off to the hotel.

Emily is worried that Betty's son is going to put his mother into a home. 'You should look after number one,' she advises.

Interfering Les spots two angry Australian backpackers arguing outside a hotel about the price of the rooms and tells them to calm down.

Betty announces in the Rovers that she is staying in Weatherfield. Martin offers to buy a round of drinks for the whole population of the pub which consists of about 5 people as everyone else is at the wedding! They celebrate Betty's return whilst toasting to 'moving on.'

Sally asks Gail if she is having second thoughts. 'No, ' she replies sternly. 'Him and me were meant to be together.'

Richard tells Roger, his best man, to go easy on the speech. Roger then questions the bracelet on Gail's arm, Richard admits that it used to belong to his ex wife, Patricia.

Richard asks to see Gail before they get married. 'You don't think he's changed his mind?' Candice teased. Richard makes it clear to Gail that they are marrying because they love each other. Gail agrees. What other reasons are there?

Les spies the two Australian backpackers outside another hotel. They ask him if he knows anywhere where they can stay that's closer than Liverpool. Les nods his head and offers them a lift to his house where they negotiate a price for accommodation and Breakfast.

Sarah tells Candice and Ade about Nick getting mugged by a group if girls much to the amusement of Ade.

The best man delivers his funny speech. He keeps it snappy in order to keep the guests happy. Richard delivers his romantic and tear jerking speech, Kevin and Sally swap glances.

In the Rovers, Geena teases Les about the Aussie backpackers being thieves Les is home quicker than you can say 'strewth' only to find the girls sorting out their washing.

Nick has a go at Sarah for blabbing about his mugging. Maria and Nick share a kiss which leaves Candice green with envy.

Sally confides in Audrey that her youth is over which prompts her to rethink Kevin's offer to move back in with her and girls.

Richard and Roger are moving the wedding gifts into the wedding car when they bump into Karen. To avoid confrontation about the flats, Steve pretends to sprain his ankle.

Sally leaves Rosie and Sophie with Hayley and searches for Kevin to tell him that he can move back in with them. Kevin's pleased that he's finally got his own way.

Gail, Richard and their car full of their children, grandchild and silly string leave for their honeymoon.

Kevin has the final word, 'You can't live your life on what ifs, you've got to take chances while you can.'

Emma Harrison

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