Sunday 1 December

Well with just 24 more days (after today) until Christmas, nobody is rushing around buying presents. The Underworld girls don't seem to have organized a Christmas party ....

Well we start this week with Peter and Shelly. After their traumas last week, Peter decides to take the plunge and asks her to marry him. She accepts.

Rosphie (Rosie or Sophie!) wants Sally and Kevin's wedding videoed. Sally rules it out as being too expensive.

Peter and Shelley go to the shop accompanied by Blanche. Conveniently in there are Deirdre, behind the counter, and Ken as well as Dev. They announce their engagement. Everyone is delighted.

Gail suggests to Richard that she should go round to see Archie, being a Sunday he will not be at work. Richard thinks it is better to leave Audrey to get in touch. David and Sarah are concerned about Adder, but they agree that her problems are not her fault.

Blanche can't wait, and rushes to the Kabin to tell Rita and Sally who happens to be there, the news about Peter and Shelley. Blanche is however disappointed that Ken and Deirdre haven't got married yet.

Shelley tells Betty and Maria at the pub. Maria asks to see the ring, and Shelley slightly shocked with realism, says she hasn't got one yet. Now Peter has arrived, Vik wades in with remarks about them having to save and not going to the casino.

Rita tells Ken that she is delighted with the news. Todd is in the shop and tells Ken that he has a book about assault in the workplace, and he will drop it round to Ken.

David asks Gail and Richard about Audrey. He doesn't want to be fobbed off with an excuse. They tell him that she is not well and is very confused.

Dev asks Vik what is happening about Peter and his gambling debts. Vik says he would like to borrow £1500. Dev says he doesn't lend money to gamblers. Vik says he is in terrible trouble, but it falls on deaf ears.

Deirdre asks Shelley if marriage is what she wants. She had heard that they have had problems recently. Shelley says they are now over and she loves and trusts him.

Peter goes round to see Lucy. She realizes before he says anything that it is goodbye. After he tells her it is a touching parting with a kiss goodbye.

Shelley comes off the phone (it became uncomfortable :-) ) and tells Betty that she has just told her mum the news. Her mum is delighted. Shelley is upset because she can't tell her late-father.

Sarah asks what they should say if they meet Audrey in the street. David suggests "hi Gran". Richard suggests they talk about something else as it is getting upsetting.

After Vik has been drinking in the pub, Maria dashes out after him, without explanation. She thought that Vik was driving after his drinks. In fact he is working on the switchboard.. They then have an argue. Maria decides she has had enough and splits.

A big guy comes round the minicab office to tell Vik that he owes £8000. He not only owes Peter but other bookmakers. When Vik says he doesn't owe that much, the guy says it is the debts plus his pay. He wants £300 by tomorrow from Vik and the rest in weekly installments under the debt is paid. -- This e-mail has come from:

Martin Rosen

For an alternative view tonight - I welcome Sue Nicholson to our reporters list./

1st December 2002

Shelley is up early, "what's up"? Peter wants to know his answer to the question of a life-time, but Shelley is not sure , she wants to know what's brought it on now? is he trying to make things right?, but he reassures her and she agrees to marry him. (silly girl) Over at the Webster's' its moodies all round, Rosie wants a video of the wedding like her friends parents had but Sally says its too expensive, so Rosie goes off in a moody. nothing new there then. Over in Dev's shop, Ken and Deirdre are chatting when Shelley and Peter and Blanche come in and they give out the glad tidings, congratulations all round..........

Meanwhile Gail has decided she wants to go see Archie to find out where her mum is, Richard is not keen, talks her out of it.......she might find out he's already been there! young Sarah seems worried about her gran, but Gail says she might be just seeking attention, well she is certainly getting it!

Over in the pub, Shelley tells her news, but as usual Blanche is her cryptic self and reckons they have beaten Deirdre and Ken to it, she says her daughter and her beau are past it. Vik is still getting his digs in about Peter being in the casino, but Shelley sends him away.

meanwhile.............Peter goes to see Lucy, his lady love (bit on the side) Vik asks Dev yet again to help him pay his debt, he asks for £1500, but Dev refuses to pay gambling debts.

Shelley gets upset because her father is no longer alive and wont see her married, and Peter is saying goodbye to Lucy. He and Shelley have to meet up in the pub to have a celebratory drink with Kevin and Sally. Todd...nice boy that, has got some books on law to see if he can help Ken sort out his assault case. Meanwhile..back at the taxi office..Vik has a visitor, a debt collector wanting his £8,000..........and he wants it at £300 per week or else!

Sue Nicholson


Monday 2 December


Wednesday 4 December

Early morning at the Webster's' and, while Kevin is excited at the imminent wedding, Sally is more concerned that it's Alex's [the decorator] last day with them. Kevin is looking forward to his night of debauchery on his stag night, while Sally just looks miserable.

In Streetcars, Steve and Eileen discuss Vik's disappearance, as Steve tries to make sense of the books, which he found in Vik's flat. They both feel let down by Vik, whose gambling addiction has led to a seeming discrepancy in the accounts.

Outside the factory, Fiz teases Janice about the encounter she had with a man [and his car!] last night, just as Angela arrives and apologizes for hearing their conversation. Janice assures her that there are no secrets around here! (When are we going to learn the Nelsons' secret??)

In the street, Sally meets Rita and asks her to be a witness at the wedding, which invitation Rita gladly accepts. Sally also mentions a wee hen night just as Gail arrives and is duly invited too. While they talk, a van rolls up - the Webster's' decorator, Alex - and Sally mournfully informs Gail that his job is nearly over and this is his last day.

In the cafe, Kevin invites Curly to be a witness at the nuptials. Curly is very happy to do this for his mate. (Poor Kevin - he has no idea what is going on with Sally and Alex.) Steve arrives for a couple of teas and a bun 'to go' (Do they have no kettle in Streetcars?) and Kevin, leaving, reminds Steve that the cheque which he received from Vik bounced, so cash would be welcome.

The Webster home, and Alex and Sally have a heart-to-heart about their situation. A weepy Sally cannot face never seeing Alex again, and he feels the same. Alex wants Sally to go for a walk in the park with him in the afternoon, just to talk, but Sally cannot bear saying goodbye to Alex. A walk in the park is just what she doesn't need...

In the factory, Karen loudly complains about the slowness of Angela, who asks Hayley if she could stay on and practice her sewing technique. Hayley agrees, and will stay and help her.

Emma, in her cop car, drops by to say hello to her husband and son, while her partner, Mick, goes off to buy some chips. Emma suggests inviting Mick for Sunday lunch, which Curly reluctantly agrees to... (Can this be a prelude to some marital infidelity, I wonder? A lot of it about these days in Corrie!)

... and the said Mick, replete with large bag of chips, meets Janice again, and the pair seem to have an attraction for each other.

In the Rovers, Kevin is discussing the stag night on Friday and points out the advantage of the venue being the Rovers - they can get as drunk as they like and still get home easily. (Makes sense, I suppose: well, male sense anyway, if that's not a contradiction of terms.) Shelley asks Toyah and Fiz about their flat-mate, Maria, and Fiz tells Shelley that Maria has gone off to the Caribbean with Vik on holiday. [Maria got time off to look after her ailing Grandma!] Karen hears this conversation and rushes off to tell Steve these un-glad tidings of the season...

The Webster's' home again, and Sally comes home from shopping, only to collapse on a sofa, while the resident decorator, Alex, seeks to console her. Sally pleads with Alex to do more painting, but he has already done two coats! They agree to meet for an afternoon walk in the park.

In Streetcars, Steve has worked out that Vik has filched almost three thousand pounds from the firm, just as Karen arrives to tell Steve and Eileen about Vik's whereabouts. (And Maria's!)

In a local park (where the foliage of the trees betrays a close resemblance to an autumn scene!) Sally and Alex spend an afternoon in the December sunshine and get to know each other better, just enjoying walking and talking together. Sally mentions sloppy romances and unreal expectations, but Alex thinks that these ideas are not so daft.

The girls at the factory finish for the day, but Angela and Hayley stay on. After a few moments Angela, working at her machine, snags her finger on the needle and Hayley, in spite of Angela's protests, calls a taxi to take her to hospital for a possible tetanus injection.

The Rovers, and Curly is advised by Sunita to cook a curry for Sunday lunch for their guest. Tommy enters, looking for his wife, and is told by Janice and company that she's working on at the factory, with Hayley.

The Nelson kids, Katy and Craig, are complaining about being hungry when Tommy, their Dad, arrives home. He's been to the factory but it's locked-up. All three seem worried about Angela.

It's now dark in the park, but Sally and Alex stroll slowly, arm-in-arm, back to Alex's van, delaying the almost-inevitable last goodbye. (Or is it??)

Just as Tommy is about to phone the police, Angela arrives home, safe and sound.

The Rovers, and an amused Dev tells Steve and Karen that he's glad that Vik's whereabouts have been established.

Angela, the kids having been sent for chips, tells Tommy that they need not expect the worst and that she must stop being scared; this house is their new start in life...

In Alex's van, the love-lorn Sally and Alex discuss their situation and Alex declares his love for Sally, and she declares her love for him. A passionate embrace follows, as the credits roll.

Iain McDougall


Friday 6 December

Morning in the Webster household and, while Kevin unblocks the sink, there is a chap at the door. The chap is Alex, who has come to see Sally, but Kevin thinks he has come for his money and hands him a [rather large] envelope. (Was Alex going to leave without being paid?) Sally shows him to the door and they arrange to meet in the cafe at noon, before he leaves for Grimsby. Chez Hillman. Todd arrives just as Gail leaves for work, and chats to the little Bethany [who chats back!] all of which Sarah watches with maternal approval. Todd has brought a book which Sarah needs for her studies; he went all the way into Manchester to get it for her, and Sarah is very grateful. Maybe they could meet up tonight for a video, Todd suggests, but Sarah is going to Sally's hen party but, as recompense, she makes him toast for breakfast.

At the garage, Tyrone is looking forward to getting 'hammered' [drunk] at Kevin's stag night. Just over the way, at the factory door, Janice complains that she's always cold in her flat, and Karen advises her to get her copper friend to warm her up. Hayley is surprised to see Angela turn up for work after her accident with the needle, but Angela is obviously more committed to her work than some. (No names, Karen!)

In the factory, Hayley planks herself down beside Angela and prattles on about how Angela ought to get registered with a doctor and dentist. Angela informs Hayley that she'll get around to it when she has the time. (Maybe Santa will bring Angela a round tuit for her Christmas - sorry, couldn't resist that!)

In the Rovers, Kevin asks his pals not to organize a stripper for his stag night. Tommy, pressed by Kevin, promises to make an appearance. Gail confesses to Eileen that she hopes the hen night will not be too much for Sally.

Sally arrives at the cafe and meets Alex, who suggests that she run away with him. (To Grimsby?) Sally reminds him that she has a home, and the girls, just as Rita arrives and interrupts their cozy chat. Alex takes his leave, leaving Sally to listen to Rita going on and on about Norris. Sally ignores Rita politely for a few moments, then escapes just in time to see Alex's van disappearing around the corner. (Is this goodbye for ever?)

In the Rovers, the 'lads' arrive for Kevin's stag night. Shelley has laid on some food, on the house.

Sally welcomes her guests at her house. Vera has brought her a gift of some tea towels. Rita makes a wee speech, saying how much they all love Sally, and Kevin, and that they make a great couple, which Sally listens to with a forced smile.

Back in the Rovers, the stag night is under way, and Jack advises Kevin not to 'mess up' again with Sally. [That is, don't get caught!] Tommy confesses that he's never cheated on Angela in their 18 years of marriage. (Must be a record for the street!) Kevin is impressed.

Back at Sally's hen night, and Emily and Sally are in the kitchen, where Emily dispenses some wisdom about soul-mates, which she'd found with Ernest in later life. Sally ponders about the meaning of soul-mate, and Emily tells her that 'she'd know' if she'd found hers. (Nearly typed sole-mate there - oops.) Hayley spies Vera's gift of tea towels, and just happens to mention that they are exactly the same tea towels which they use in the cafe. (Bit of a coincidence there, eh?)

Eileen speaks about her five previous partners and their shortcomings [and she lists them as too young, too dull, too wacko, too old and too.... Les!]

Meanwhile, in the Rovers, the lads are doing what lads do on stag nights - get blind drunk, with a beer-drinking competition (no Chardonnay, then?) passing of wind and raucous songs.

Back at the hen night, and Vera, trying to do the twist, falls and has to be helped to her feet again. Gail tells Sarah that her Dad, Brian, was a great dancer, while she wasn't. Gail also tells her daughter that she hopes that she'll find Mr Right, just as she has with Richard - someone you can love and trust!

Rita finds a weepy Sally in the ginnel, and offers a shoulder to cry on. Sally tells Rita that she doesn't feel any excitement about the wedding and that it's not an adventure. Rita asks Sally what she wants, but Sally isn't sure. (I think she knows what she wants, but will she tell Rita?)

Time, gentlemen, please, in the Rovers and the lads are preparing to go off home, all pals. (A slight discordant note here, when Curly tells Martin that he can't be a witness at the wedding since he's slept with Sally, and he hasn't!)

Back at Sally's, and she bids goodnight to Rita. Sally starts to mention their meeting earlier in the day, with Alex, but is interrupted by Vera's departure and quickly changes the subject to wallpaper. Sally sees Rita to the door, just in time to receive her inebriated imminent husband home, who declares his undying love for her, although Sally does manage to tell Kevin that she's not excited about the wedding. However, Kevin promises to look after Sally for the rest of his life, to make up for his past 'indiscretions'. The scene ends with Sally weeping...

Iain McDougall


Sunday 8 December
Breakfast at Kev and Sal's....he is twitchy and excited about the wedding tomorrow, but Sal has obvious doubts. Why is she doing this????????????????

Over at the flat, Fizz needs coffee, she had a heavy night out with Kirk, .......Toyah has a bloke in the offing but she is keeping very quiet about him.

The mechanics are doing overtime at the garage, Les is teasing Kev about marriage.............but he admits he still misses Janice very much.

Meanwhile over at Curly's..the curry he is cooking for Emma's police partner is not coming along too good, his meatballs wont stick together, so he rings Sunita who rushes round to the rescue. Over at the pub the police man is having a quick drink before lunch and buys one for Janice.......he invites her to go to lunch with him.

Rita chats to Sally about the wedding..she is so pleased about it and gives Sally £100 to buy something nice, she reckons that the whole family seem a lot happier now.....(well maybe Kev and the girls are )

Poor Blanche gets mugged outside the cabin....Tommy rushes to her aid.

Emma comes home from work to find the meal almost ready..saved by Sunita, and as Sunita is leaving, her buddy arrives with his "date" for lunch, both Emma and Curly are surprised when they see who it is.

Norris calls the police about Blanches mugging and then calls Ken.......he is convinced that Tommy must have seen something, and in true Norris fashion, he is convinced that Tommy is hiding something.

Police ask about the mugging and when Tommy's wife sees them she panics....what IS it they are hiding?

Ken decides he needs to change the locks because Blanche had keys in her bag, and Blanche is also refusing to go to hospital for a check up.

Over in the pub, Les hears about Janice going to lunch with a bloke to curly's, so he goes and bangs on the door, shouting.....curly sends him packing.

THEN!!!! Alex (the decorator) appears at Sal's...he needs to talk!!!! he has dumped his Fiancee and moved out of his home, because he is in love with Sal...............he begs her not to go through with the wedding!!!!!!!

Sue Nicholson


Monday 9 December

Tonight we have two episodes again (hoorah, he says through gritting teeth!). I thought what better way to start, would be the first part first :-)

It begins with Sally lying in bed awake with Kevin (phew!) next to her. As Kevin awakes he asks her if she is ok for their wedding day.

Doreen sympathises with Blanche over her attack. Blanche says that Tommy came from the garage to assist. Doreen thinks it is strange he didn't see the attacker. She thinks the whole family are strange.

Sophie asks Kevin if she was at their wedding first time round! Sally is miles away in her thoughts.

Kevin asks Steve about the outstanding cheque that Vik gave him. He says he will sort it later.

At the garage Kevin invites Tommy in for after wedding drinks and a bit of nosh later.

Doreen is in the Kabin looking for a bereavement card for her friend's dog. She finds one with the words "There a new dog basket in heaven tonight" (pass the sick bucket!).

She then starts gossiping with Norris about the Nelson family. Norris then says he thinks it is worrying that Kevin has left Tommy in charge of the garage. Rita comes down and tells them to stop gossiping like old women.

Kevin and the girls are all dressed up for the wedding. Sally is still in a daydream. The girls give them a present each - (not sure what they were, but they were matching - could be keyrings?!), one was marked 'forever' and the other 'together' (aaah!)

Vik and Maria return from holiday arguing. She dumps him.

All their friends are round at the Webster's for pre-wedding drinks. Kevin is over the moon, while Sally has doubts in her mind.

Toyah asks Maria how she enjoyed Barbados. Would she go again. She says it was good, and she would go again, but this time with someone else.

Vik rips open a suitcase and takes out two small packages from the lining.

Ken suggests to Blanche that she ought to see a doctor. She says she is physically ok, not a mark on her. However she is mentally shocked.

Sally and Kevin have a heart to heart in the car before arriving at the registry office. Sally bursts into tears saying that she is love with somebody else.

At the registry office everybody is waiting outside. Sally confesses to Kevin that it was Alex. He initially refuses to believe it. She says she tried to stop it happening but could not fight it. Kevin's mind works in overtime! She tells him it is not his fault. He is not to blame.

In Underworld, Fizz calls over to Mrs Nelson, egged on by Karen, that her Tommy ought to wear glasses to see better. She says he needs his eyes tested.

Steve sees Maria and asks about Vik. She confirms he is back as well.

Rosie and Sophie are now worried about Kevin and Sally who haven't arrived. Rita tries to comfort them.

Kevin realizes everyone is waiting for them. Sally says she doesn't care upsetting a few people. Kevin accuses her of sleeping with Alex. She denies but Kevin doesn't believe her. She says she cares about Kevin. She has different feelings for both of them. She cares for Kevin and is in love with Alex.

Kevin says it would be a disaster for Rosie and Sophie if the wedding didn't happen. He says they need them both.

Curly then finds them in the car and tells they that everyone is waiting.

Steve finds Vik in his flat. Vik says he has to go out to an appointment, and has to go out.

Sally, Kevin and Curly arrive and just as everyone goes in to the Registry Office Alex turns up as Sally and Kevin are about to go in. He asks Sally not to go through with the wedding .....

Part 2

Welcome back. Here in the UK we had a half an hour break (for EastEnders on the BBC). However I have since watched a couple of other programmes!!

Anyway, back to plot. Sally has confessed to Kevin about Alex. They arrive at the Registry Office. Just as they are about to go in Alex turns up ........ now read on !!

Kevin threatens Alex. He wants Sally to listen to him.

Steve confronts Vik about the money. He accuses Vik of taking money from the firm. Vik says he borrowed the money and has not stolen it. He said he a lot of debts and he was desperate for money in the short term.

Sally agrees to talk to Alex in his van. He asks her what she told Kevin. He thinks that now Kevin won't want to go through with the wedding. He has left Gaynor. He is very persuasive.

Joe is looking around the Underworld factory. He is checking the work of the girls. Hayley tells him that he seems to be in a good mood. He says that Mike is away, and he has a deal that he hopes to win. Fizz asks if they could have a xmas party. He tells them that he will make a deal. If they put in a good morning's work on Friday, they can have the afternoon off. Fizz says that last year Mike put £100 in the kitty. Joe doesn't believe her, and says he will put in £50.

Dev comes to StreetCars to see Vik. Karen, who is helping on the phones, tells him he will have to line up behind all the other creditors.

The Registrar comes out looking for Kevin. She says there is another wedding party coming soon.

Alex again asks Sally to go with him. He says he will support the girls. She says she wants to be with him. She knows the girls will be unhappy if she (Sally) is not with their father. She couldn't bear to see them unhappy. He can only be "like a father" to them. He cannot compete. And so, Sally and Alex say their goodbyes. Sally walks back to the Registry Office where Kevin is waiting for her.

Steve is still arguing with Vik. Vik claims he has stopped gambling. He gets a call on his mobile, and says that he would find the money. Vik wants to leave but Steve is reluctant to let him go.

The wedding ceremony goes ahead. Sally Webster marries Kevin John Webster. [Continuity note: Did Sally divorce Kevin? If they did why does she still have the Webster surname]?

Karen tells Steve they should go to the police if Vik doesn't repay the money.

Doreen corners Ken in the cafe. She starts complaining about the Nelson family. The Nelson kids walk in, overhear the conversation and walk out.

Dev finds Vik, but doesn't get to speak to him before he drives away.

Tommy and Angela (Nelson) arrive at arrive at Kevin and Sally's party.

Jason comes round to see his mother at StreetCars. Eileen tells him to get a job.

Maria comes back to the bar. Shelly tells her to get a job at the pub has gone.

Rita says a lot of people were asking what delayed Sally at the registry office. She says most people are too polite to ask, but she (Rita) is nosy and wants to know what happened. Sally says she will tell her one day.

Vik meets two big men in a car. He gives them the package . They want him to do another job for them. He needs to do another run to get more packages though.

Okay that's it for me for a week.....speak to you all next week!

Martin Rosen


Wednesday 11 December

Steve comes out of the cafe and Vik calls him to wait up, " what" asks Steve. just then Vik gets a phone call from the drug baron putting the heat on, Vik tells him that everything is sorted, Steve leaves Vik's call ends and then he spot Dev, he then calls him to wait.

Kevin "mug" Webster tells sally he is taking the day off to be with her and that he will take the girls to school so she can have a rest.(wait, i thought i saw her smile then).

Vik goes into Dev's back room and Dev asks him " how much "Vik tries to make out he is hurt by this and then asks for some money as it isn't only peter and Steve he owes, its more people, Dev pops his eyeballs in temper and asks if he has learnt anything from this, he says he has, but if Dev can lend him the money he can get back to work and pay him off. Dev say's " good, what's stopping you" duh Dev, don't you know, you can't drive whilst on your hands and knees groveling).

Tuna is on the menu for sandwiches in the Nelson house, Katie does not want these and Angie tells her that tuna is good for them, Tommy is upset that Angie doesn't have any and that if she is dieting again not to bother as she is fine the way she is, ahhh. She tells him it isn't that, she does not have any because she is going to the pub with the girls for lunch, Tommy is horrified at this and tells her that she is not ready yet, and to take it easy.

Vik gives Steve the money he stole from the taxi accounts (i take it Dev paid up then....sucker)and then he asks Steve if he can return to work, Steve tells him that isn't a good idea as he cant trust him anymore. Vik then comes up with a corker that he wants to take him and Karen to Tenerife for a weeks holiday to bond, Steve say's " who do you think you are, oprah winfrey", and refuses to go.

Fizz ( the fraggle) is in Roy's rolls discussing the factory xmas party, she asks Roy if he is looking forward to it, he says yes, Hayley asks him if he had thought anymore about it and he tell sheer that he had allocated a space in his mind for it, but the historical society took it, Hayley asks him what he is on about and he says that he has a chance to go to paxos (the place no the stuffing) to search for roman artifacts. Hayley says " so your not coming then" and storms out.

In the Kabin, Steve tells Karen he told Vik to get stuffed over the holiday, Karen is not impressed and she storms out. Blanche calls Tommy a hero and tries to trick him into telling her the muggers eye colour, he doesn't know and leaves. Norris says that he must have seen him, curly wishes he had as there has been another mugging, awww says Rita.

In the factory the girls have decided it will e an all girls party after janice's copper boyfriend cannot make it, fizz is upset as she wanted Kirk to come just then Karen shouts " yeah all girls, right off to the pub". Angie agrees and Karen asks her what she means and Angie tells her it will be good to get a beer in, maybe a few, Karen asks Janice what pub she can suggest for her,"flying horse is nice this time of day", so Karen agrees and tells her to enjoy her pint, Angie is upset that they do not want her with them.

PART TWO

In the rovers all the claps and cheers are for the websters and Shelly buys them a drink on the house. Karen asks Vik what sort of holiday it was and Vik tells her that it was Tenerife and it is still warm this time of the year and that they could be there in a couple of hours and that he just wants to make amends for what he has done. Karen tells him she will have a word with Steve. Kirk is still getting excited about the knickers in the factory and all the women, fizz now has the hump and storms out (was the writer in a bad mood when he wrote this episodes)

Karen sees Steve and tells him that she is upset that they cant go on holiday and that she needs a break as she has had a bad year ( oh, diddums)she even starts to cry, Steve gets angry and reminds her that she was all for going to the police the day before, she tells him that "that was before i knew what he was offering" she also tells him that as it is free they can go and loose Vik. he says they might, just might go.

Tommy gets home and thinks his wife is upset cos she went to the pub and was not ready yet (agggg, ready for what). She tells him it isn't that and tells Tommy what the girls did at lunchtime, he is not happy at all and then blames himself over this mugging business, Angie tells him that it isn't his fault he didn't have any choice, he tells her he did and that he chose the wrong one.

Kirk is whining to Les that fizz stormed out on him and cannot understand why, Les tells him about Janice and that she was in a bad mood over his laziness and that it was just her hormones. Les tells Kirk that it is something called h.r.t, Kirk asks what's that stand for, Les tells him "ormone replacement therapy", Kirk asks "shouldn't that be o.r.t?" he then asks Les if he should get some hrt for fizz, Les tells him that it cant hurt, Kirk goes onto tell Les that he was really looking forward to the party, "what party" asks Les, Kirk tells him the xmas party at the factory, on hearing this Les gets excited.( little things)

Karen tells Vik that she trusts him and that he just needs to convince Steve(will she stop at nothing to get her own way)

Hayley arrives home to witness Roy talking to the table and chairs, when she asks why he is doing it, he tells her that he has not got social intercourse like her and does not want to embarrass her at the party, she tells him that it is now an all girls do, he looks so relived and can now go to Greece. Blanche asks him if he likes Greece, Roy tells her he does, so she tells him to put a few chips in his as she is starving. lololol. Hayley is pleased that he was willing to go to all that trouble for her.

Vik convinces Steve to give him another chance and Steve relents ......sucker.

At the rovers, Norris is telling blanche, Doreen and Ashley that Tommy is a wrong un, all agree except helium boy, they then agree that he must have been in on the mugging, Tommy over hears this and leaves.

Kirk is apologizing to fizz and asks her how her hormones are, she says fine ta, then he asks her if they are back on, she tells him only if he gets her a drink.

Maria keeps trying to get Shelly to take her back on, Shelly agrees only as she is really busy and has xmas coming up, but it is not rovers return to her, it is last chance saloon.

Vik has no time to talk to Dev as he is busy, dev's not impressed at this.

Sally thanks Kevin for a great day and that she feels comfortable, better than she has felt in a long time, and now they can go to family occasion together from now on and this makes her happy (thank goodness for that). Tommy is smiling and tells Angie that she is summat special and the girls are not going to treat her that way again, and that by trying to hide themselves they are making themselves more noticed and first thing in morning he is going to the police station to change his statement, Angie is scared.

Tommy is all smile and tells Angie that she is "summat special" and that he wont have those women treat her like that anymore and that he is going to the cop shop 1st thing and change his statement as keeping there heads down they have been noticed more, Angie is shocked at this.

Vik is telling the drugs baron the names to go on the plane tickets for the drugs run......the Macdonald's.

i would just like to say, before i started writing the updates i had long slender fingers, now they are all stubby and worn, lolol


Friday 13 December

 

Breakfast at the Nelsons', where Tommy has decided to go to the police and give evidence about the mugger of Blanche. Angela is not sure if this is a good idea, but Tommy will seek the advice of 'the cop across the road', Emma.

In the cafe, Vik reminds Karen and Steve that he'll pick them up at 3pm for their free holiday in Tenerife. Steve is still unsure of this seeming generosity, but Karen reminds him not to look a gift horse in the mouth. (Unfortunately, Roy happens to pass at this time and gives them a history lesson about the siege of Troy in 1193BC - well, we all knew that!) Janice orders some trays of sandwiches for the factory party, and expects to see Mick later. Roy warns Hayley about 'unruly females + alcohol'. [Wise advice!]

In the girls' flat, Toyah arrives home after a night with John, claiming that she and he spent the whole night talking. [This is conduct unbecoming for Corrie girls, eh?]

In the cafe, Roy learns from a phone call that Mrs McGarvey has had to pull out of the imminent Greek visit to Praxos, owing to her hip replacement operation due soon.

In the Kabin, Emma informs Rita, Doreen and Norris that the alleged mugger has been caught, just as Tommy arrives to speak to Emma about what he saw. However, Tommy changes his mind about co-operating with the cops as soon as he hears about a possible identity parade. Tommy rushes back to work, leaving the ladies to suspect him of all sorts of heinous crimes...

In the factory, Angela tells Hayley about Tommy's going to the police, but the girls continue to give her a hard time. Janice accuses Hayley of being gullible, but nice. Joe appears, laden with trays of cans of beer, and declares the party has begun. Joe is delighted that he's just landed a new contract for the factory, and Karen takes the opportunity of asking him for the day off on Monday. Joe agrees. [Karen is being nice to Joe - danger sign!]

Vik is on the radio at Streetcars as Les arrives to hand in his keys for the day. Les has free beer in the offing, he thinks. Des arrives, just to check that Vik has paid Steve his money back, and leaves, content that Vik is getting his life back together again.

In the cafe, Roy extols the culture of ancient Greece to Vera, whose knowledge of Greece extends to Nana Muskouri, not to Aristophanes, Socrates or Plato!

In the Kabin, tongues are still wagging about Angela and Tommy. Why doesn't he want to co-operate with the police, they all wonder. [We wonder too, but read on....]

The party is in full swing at Underworld, with lots of loud music and alcohol-fuelled ribaldry. Angela warns Hayley that she's being manipulated by Roy, who wants to go off to Greece with the Historical Society. Les arrives, uninvited, just as the beer runs out, and offers to entertain the girls... [Can the girls come up with something he can do? Think so!!]

Kevin and Tommy finish their work at the garage, and they go for a pint in the Rovers, while Norris points Tommy out to Mick [the cop who fancies Janice] - "that's him".

In the factory, the girls have found a way for Les to entertain them. They've stripped him of his clothes, dressed him up in only some flimsy lingerie and pushed him out of the factory in a trolley - not a pretty sight. [Mick eventually unties Les' hands.]

In the Rovers, Angela is buying a large round of drinks, but Tommy hasn't been to the police yet. Mick and Janice get closer, as Angela feels more and more pressure from all and sundry...[especially the sundry!]

Hayley arrives in the cafe and tells Roy to go to Greece, as her Christmas present to him.

Blanche arrives in the Rovers and, egged-on by all the regulars, she accuses Tommy of shielding the mugger - maybe he's a member of his family? Tommy goes into a rage, and announces to the whole pub that, while they don't like his family, his family are here for good. Tommy exits, to a silent pub. [Temporarily, at least!]

(In the latter scene, and the next couple of scenes, the background music is by the Bay City Rollers - Bye bye baby. No Robbie Williams' CDs then?)

Outside the Rovers, Karen awaits her taxi and she and Joe share a Christmas kiss under her mistletoe hat, which is witnessed by Steve as he lugs their bags from their flat. Steve accepts his wife's explanation about the kiss with Joe [which Karen seemed to enjoy too much!] and offers to put his tongue down the next woman's throat who comes out of the pub. Hayley is the next to exit, but Steve lets her pass, just as Vik arrives with their taxi to the airport.

Hayley accosts Angela at her door. Why has Angela made a fool of her, when she's always tried to support her? Angela blurts out the truth, at last. She was a barmaid in a pub and witnessed a murder; she knew both the victim and the assailant, and she testified in court to that. She'd tried to do 'the right thing'. However, after doing that, she and her family were subjected to having their house burned down by the murderer's family, and constant threats. The police eventually gave them all new identities and moved them here for their protection. She ends by claiming that, if their whereabouts become known, they will be killed.

The door slams....

Iain McDougall


Sunday 15 December

 


Mrs Nelson is scared and miserable cos her secret is out!!!!!!!! what will Hayley do with the Information? Tommy just thinks she's mad at him over the mugging incident, but she really hates herself for putting her family through all this.....she feels so guilty and wishes she had kept her big gob shut!

Fizz is feeling rough after the underworld party....sounds like it was a good un....lol, Toyah is off to meet John, her new boyfriend.

Roy is having a whinge in the cafe, he feels bad going and leaving Hayley on her own, when Mrs Nelson comes in and begs her to keep her secret..............poor Hayley doesn't like keeping secrets from her Roy, but eventually she promises.

Over at the corner shop....Eileen is telling Dev about Vik and Steve and Karen's holiday in the sun, Dev is NOT pleased!!!!!!

Over in the cabin, Archie tells them that Audrey is due back..........Maxine is a bit worried in case she's still doolally, Maxine reckons she will be better off on her own if Audrey continues making mistakes.

Sunita has noticed that her precious Dev is not a happy chappie and asks him why................he confides in her that he thinks that Vik has paid for the holiday with the money he lent him to pay his debts. Sarah and Candice chat to Katy Nelson outside the shop, but it gets heated and Candice calls her dad a criminal.....poor Katy nearly lets slip, but her dad calls her just in time. Meanwhile.............Kevin finds Tommy's wallet..but as he doesn't recognise the name he presumes it belongs to a customer.

Over at the cab office...Eileen has an old friend come to help out while the bosses are on holiday.........Les is not happy, he whinges and moans, (nothing new there then) He is at odds with the world at the mo cos of Janice and her new cop boyfriend.

Tommy is mad at Katy cos she nearly let slip about "the secret", she reckons if her mum had kept her big gob shut, there wouldn't be the problem!!! Poor old mum feels so bad for putting her family through all this, and all because she told the truth :o(

Roy is off to Paxos, on his historical trip.....nearly forgot his passport, but he's off now.

Toyah meets her new lecturer boyfriend in the pub, Fizz goes to spy, Maria thinks its disgusting she is dating her tutor...........he's OLD!!!!

Kevin decides to shut early and off they go to the pub, Tommy picks up his wallet on the way out.........but!!! when he pays for the drinks........Kevin spots the wallet, and accuses him of being a thief!!! poor Tommy, what can he do? he cant tell them the truth, so Kevin sacks him!


Monday 16 December

 

Tommy's kids are arguing over what they want for breakfast.

Les and the new guy at StreetCars are arguing over the jobs they have been given by Eileen.

Tom is in the cafe and asks Hayley if she had seen Kevin. She says she hasn't. Vera wants to talk to Hayley about Tommy but is interrupted by Toyah who is waiting for orders to be prepared.

Tom meets Kevin and apologies to Kevin. He says it was a misunderstanding, that he was looking after the union card for a mate. Kevin doesn't believe him and tells him he is still sacked.

Audrey returns. She tells Archie that she has a hospital appointment. Archie says he has taken the day off, but she says she would rather go alone.

Vik, Karen and Steve return from holiday and are waiting at baggage reclaim. Vik seems to be getting concerned that Karen's bag is taking so long. Eventually it turns up and the case is damaged. Vik is not worried and says they can sort it out later, he just wants to get away.

Tommy is at home and cuts up his union id card.

Karen is still annoyed about the case. Vik wants to go, but Steve and Karen thinks they may get some compensation. Vik grabs the case to go away. They ask why the rush, and he confesses there is 100 grammes of drugs in her suitcase. They are very annoyed that he has dared to do this. Vik warns they had better not drop them in it, else he will make sure they will be involved.

Vera tells Hayley that Kevin has sacked Tom for stealing. Hayley gazes and thinks to herself.

As Steve and Karen go through customs, an office stops Karen. Vik walks through. The officer checks the contents of her suitcase. He asks if she packed it herself, and when she says she did, he queries the fact there are a lot of men's clothes inside. Steve says they are his, as she is his wife. The customs officer then wants to check Steve's case.

Angela comes home to find Tom there. He explains he has been sacked. She is annoyed that he left one piece of incriminating evidence of their old life. She wants to tell Kevin but he says no. Then he realizes that she has told someone. She tells him that Hayley won't tell anybody. He is extremely annoyed.

Steve and Karen finally get out of the airport. They want revenge on Vik for what he has done. Vik tries to bluff it out.

Angela and Tommy are arguing about their lives past, present and future.

Toyah and Fizz chat to John in the pub. Toyah goes off for a wee short while (!), and Janice comes by. Fizz introduces John to Janice.

Richard and Gail are in the pub expecting Audrey to drop by. Gail is determined she is not going to make the first move after what Audrey said about Richard.

Audrey returns home from the hospital. She tells Archie that she has been certified completely sane. She says she was tested by psychiatrists and psychologists. She says they tried to catch her out. She had to tell them that she accidentally started the fire. She couldn't say it was her son-in-law because they wouldn't believe her and lock her up! She said while she was away she had time to think. She is going to play Richard's game. She will confess to her family that she was mistaken and that she was responsible for all the incidents that were happening to her. The only person who would know she is lying is Richard and he wouldn't be able to say anything without admitting his own guilt.

Steve stops the car on some disused ground. He threatens Vik. Steve won't give him the case full of drugs. Vik says he will be in great problems if he doesn't deliver. He says he will be killed. Steve knocks him to the group and then tells him to run away. He doesn't want to see him again. Steve leaves Vik lying on the ground bleeding.

Martin Rosen


Wednesday 18 December

 

Steve and Karen are still upset over what Vik did to them, and trying to come to terms with it, meanwhile Vik is a frightened man and with Damien the drug baron after him he is forced to go and see his cousin Dev. Dev does not want to help him until Steve decides it is time that he knew exactly what Vik did to his wife. Dev takes Vik to the airport, buys him a ticket and some money for a cab fare to get him to his dads house in Pakistan but the ordeal back home is just starting for Steve and Karen, they go through al the books with Dev as he wants his 3 thousand pound back off the cab co. when they look further it seems Vik has gambled everyone's tax money to the sum of ten grand.

Angela says sorry to Tommy for confiding in Hayley and Tommy tells the kids he has lost his job. The kids find out why and decide that everyone will brand them thieves, Katy decides that she has had enough of this and is going. Angie tries to buy the girls a drink at lunchtime, but they do not want to know

Joe is in the rovers clinching his deal when mike walks in, he got wind that Joe has been a very busy boy while he has been away and takes over the Fletcher deal right in front of Joe, this makes Joe angry.

Audrey goes to see Gail to see if they can patch things up, she apologizes to Gail for her behaviour, Gail asks her if she realizes the trouble she has caused and tells a gormless Gail she needs her forgiveness, and then she lies about the specialists report and that she has been told she is very sick and things will get a lot worse. Richard arrives home and is shocked to see Audrey in his front room, Gail tells him to listen to what her mum has to say, Audrey tells all to Richard and he is gob-smacked as he knows he did do all those things, now he is confused as he does not know what is going on( he won't like this little twist as he has to be in control, hehehe) Audrey seems to have him by the short and curly's as she knew he would not be able to call her a liar in front of Gail as this would blow his cover ( go on blow it, blow it.)

so sorry it is a short one this week, but i am ill with the flu and did not want to let you down,

Ann Williams


Friday 20 December

 

In the cafe, Steve and Karen are worried about how to make up the money which Vik stole from Streetcars, when Karen hits on the idea of selling his car. It's worth about 20,000 pounds but, without paperwork, it may only fetch half of that. Never mind, Steve reckons it's a good buy [and a good-bye!] - low mileage, one careless [careless!] owner...

Chez Archie, and he is amazed to see that Audrey has bought Richard a birthday card "To My Dearest Son-in-Law". She explains that she wants her family back and she has to 'show willing'.

The Hillmans' household, where David has just presented Richard with a radio-controlled rat for his birthday. Richard seems amused, while Gail mulls over the possibility of inviting her Mam to see the kids.

Karen pays a call on Maria in her shared flat and brings her up-to-date with what Vik's been up to recently. Maria is shaken when she realizes what could have happened to her if she'd been caught with drugs. Karen lets her know that Vik has left the country on a one-way ticket.

The Nelson home, and Katy and Craig have different wishes; Katy wants a Saturday job, preferably in a trendy city-centre designer shop, while Craig only wants them all to go out for a burger, like they used to.

In the factory, Joe complains to Mike that he isn't being given full responsibility for management decisions or sales deals. Mike [he doesn't 'do' Agony Aunt] points out to Joe that it's Baldwin's name on the door and that, if Joe doesn't like that, he can look elsewhere.

At the Hillmans', Richard is just off to see a client who, if he 'popped his clogs', would bring Richard a tidy sum. The dreaded Richard despises the flu jabs that pensioners get on the NHS these days - as he says, they're normally dropping like flies at this time of year. ['Tis the season to be jolly!!] Audrey arrives bearing her card, which she hands to a rather confused Richard. [He can't quite understand Audrey's change of mind, presumably.] Richard leaves, and Gail and her Mam have a cozy chat, culminating in Gail's inviting Audrey to see the kids at 3pm, which Audrey thinks is wonderful.

In the Kabin, poor Emily has a nasty cough. No, she hasn't had the flu jab. [Now, where have we heard this reference already?] Rita promises to give Norris some extra hours' overtime, which Emily thinks would be the best medicine.

Office of Streetcars, and a tall stranger enters: Damien, Vik's nasty debt collector. [Hiss boo!] Damien wants to know where their 'mutual friend' is, but Steve denies he knows of his whereabouts, and complains to the thuggish Damien that he's owed 10,000 pounds by his erstwhile partner. Damien is not impressed - Vik owes him some 100,000 pounds. Damien makes it crystal-clear to the hapless Steve that he will get his money, whatever way...

In the factory, Angela mentions to Hayley that Katy wants a Saturday job and, well, there just happens to be a vacancy at Roy's Rolls.

Back in Streetcars, Damien is putting on the pressure. Steve is terrified, as Damien quizzes him about Vik and his 'habits', which Steve describes as 'women, horses, casinos and vodka'. Damien relieves Steve of the keys to Vik's car and drives off in it, but not before reminding Steve that the interest on his account is 'crippling'!

Back the Hillmans', where Audrey shares a cuddle on the sofa with Sarah, with David close by. Gail suggests to her Mam that they break with tradition this year and have lamb instead of turkey for their Christmas dinner, which suggestion is interrupted by David throwing the toy rat on to Audrey's lap.... just as Richard arrives. [Timing, or what!!]

In the cafe, Tommy is treating his family to a cup of tea, but declines Hayley's offer of a freebie; he'd prefer to pay. Katy learns that she's got a Saturday job, in the cafe. Not what she wanted!

In the Rovers, Maria asks Jason about his new job at Q Bar, but he seems slightly reticent to talk about it. Steve is throwing darts at the dartboard which, he tells Dev, he imagines as Vik's face. Dev tries, unsuccessfully, to get Steve to look on the bright side.

Richard arrives back from his business meeting, only to complain to Gail that his client would be better to 'pop his clogs' now so that Richard can realize his investment as soon as possible. [Audrey overhears this snippet.] Audrey is invited to stay for tea, and Richard insists that he run her home later. Audrey agrees.

In the Rovers, Hayley is looking forward to welcoming Roy home, when Les arrives with the news that Roy's flight has been cancelled. Hayley goes off with Toyah, leaving Les to mention to Maria that maybe Roy has found a real woman in Paxos. Karen and Steve bemoan the fact that Vik's car has now gone, and it dawns on Steve that the Direct Debit from the Steetcars' account of 400 pounds a month was paying for his car!

Tommy and Angela Nelson reminisce about what they were all doing last year at this time - happier times. Never mind, Tommy assures Angela that he'll get another job. They share a tender kiss and cuddle, even though they've only received one Christmas card, from Hayley.

Richard runs Audrey to Archie's house, and asks her about the tests she's had. [Is he being intrusive? Audrey assures him that, if anyone has a right to know, it's him!] Richard tells Audrey that she's coped marvelously, unbelievably well, in the circumstances and he gives her a peck on the cheek as Archie appears. 'Mind how you go!' Richard reminds Audrey, as she steps out of the car.

Iain McDougall


Sunday 22 December

 

Hayley tells Toyah and Fizz that Roy is stuck in Greece until the weather gets better. She is sure he will be home for xmas. Toyah thinks she will want extra shifts but notices that the Nelson girl has started.

Rita gets Tyrone to help take some dishes over to Emily's house, as Emily is still not well. Richard comes over to sympathize. Curly tells Richard that a lot of letters complaining about the bail hostel have come to the council. He says it may therefore not happen. Although Curly cannot give any assurance at this time.

Les complains to Steve for putting up the rent for the two-way radio in the car. Steve explains that it is the only way to keep the company afloat. He says Vik has taken all the company money.

Eileen then has a word with Steve, thinking that she is going to be asked to do extra hours. She says she would have to move in, if she was going to do any more hours.

Emily is suffering with her flu. Blanche offers to help prepare xmas dinner. Emily doesn't look too happy, but too weak to protest.

David gives Richard a xmas list, and reminds him it is also his birthday. As they go xmas shopping, Audrey offers to cook for everyone on their return. Richard says he is going to take them all out. Audrey says she is glad everybody is back together and looks forward to popping in each day to see them all. Richard does not look happy!

Les comes storming into the corner shop to see Dev. He is annoyed that Vik has "done a bunk". Dev chucks him out of the shop.

Peter asks Shelley if she minds having xmas dinner with his father. Ken thinks she is part of the family. Shelley had hoped to have dinner alone with Peter.

Hayley tells Toyah and Fizz that she has now heard that Roy won't be able to come home until Boxing Day at the earliest. They invite her round their place for xmas dinner. She declines.

Karen says to Steve that he has not told Eileen to leave the house. She says if he doesn't do so, she will.

As the Hillman's return, Audrey comes in. She says she saw them drive up from the salon. She is amazed at all the presents they have bought. Richard offers Audrey something to drink. She says she could "murder a cuppa" !

Shelley has tried to organize a surprise guest, Peter's oldest mate to turn up at the engagement party.

Shelley talks to Sunita and suggests to her that she should try a bit harder to find a fella.

Hayley is trying to organize cover for the cafe while Roy is away. Vera says she is busy and Toyah is studying. Vera hints that the Nelson girl could not be trusted. Hayley immediately asks her if she wants extra shifts.

Fizz asks Hayley again to come for xmas dinner. She urges Hayley to think about it.

Roy rings Hayley. She confirms everything is under control, but manages to supress her tears to him on the phone.

Jason is reluctant to tell Tyrone and Kirk about his job. They don't believe he has one. When he goes to the loo, they want to look in his bag. He comes back to grab it.

Sunita has a chat with Dev and suggests they should become more than good friends. Dev asks her to stop. He says he can't explain why he doesn't feel the same for her as she obviously does for him. He says he considers her part of the family. She is too important to throw away on a fling.

Steve talks to Eileen. She thinks she is going to have to put up her house rent. He tells her that he is going to have to sell her home.

Audrey tells Archie that the Hillman's are all going to see a pantomime without her. She says she wouldn't have wanted to go even if asked. However she has the keys to their house, and she wants to go round while they are all out to see what Richard is hiding.

I'm not sure who is compiling the rest of the week's reports yet. If I don't write again before xmas, hope you all have a great time. Think of us here in the UK having a wet and miserable one according to the weather forecasts.

Martin Rosen


Monday 23 December

 

Breakfast at Archie's, where he offers tea and sympathy to Audrey, who is determined to carry out some direct action re Richard by means of a clandestine visit to the Hillmans' happy home while they're all out at the pantomime this afternoon. Audrey quotes an old saying of Alfie [often wrongly attributed to Edmund Burke!] - "It is necessary only for the good man to do nothing for evil to triumph".

Sunita catches up with Peter and asks if the invitation to Christmas dinner is still open. It is. Has he bought Shelley a ring? He has.

Emily comes out of her house and gets a fright. Richard is there, ostensibly to deliver a Christmas card to her. Richard advises her to take things easy and not do too much. Richard fixes her with a cold stare as she heads to the shops.

At the Barlow's', the affable Blanche is not looking forward to Deirdre's dreadful cooking of the Christmas repast, and Deirdre reminds her that Christmas is a time for families to be together. However, Blanche seems to remember that Deirdre went AWOL last year on Christmas day, which comment makes Deirdre 'blanche' just a little! [Deirdre was 'keeping Dev company' - remember?] Peter arrives and asks if Sunita can join their happy band for Christmas dinner. Agreed. Blanche will now join Emily's gang, now that Peter has found a substitute for her.

At the garage, Tyrone is on his mobile to Kirk: they want to find out about Jason's job, which he's keeping secret for some reason. Jason leaves for work, closely followed by Kirk, in bright yellow jacket, and Tyrone, in the garage pick-up with lights flashing.

Archie meets Audrey in the cafe and offers to accompany her on her Miss Marple mission.

The Hillmans', where Gail is wrapping some presents. Richard wonders what to buy for Audrey, and Gail suggests something for her house. [A smoke alarm, perhaps?]

In the cafe, Hayley is still moaning about Roy's continued absence, and Toyah persuades her to come to the girls' flat for Christmas dinner. Tyrone and Kirk burst in and whisk Todd off to see something interesting.

In the Kabin, Emily, still suffering from a bad cold, is looking forward to some laughter-filled company for Christmas dinner, with Norris, Rita and Blanche. [Emily is obviously an optimist!]

Tyrone, Kirk and Todd rush into a large department store, where Jason is working, and make their way to Santa's grotto, where they witness Jason dressed-up as one of the elves and singing 'Santa Claus is coming today'. Jason is suitably mortified when he sees his 'pals' making fun of him.

Richard arrives in the bank manager's office, bearing a bottle of whisky, which the manager opens and offers Richard a glass. The manager asks Richard if he's 'made a killing' yet, regarding his parlous financial position, but Richard promises that all will be well soon, as he has a contact in the Council who assures him that the bail hostel will not go ahead. The manager promises Richard a 'stay of execution' before he has to pull the plug - he'll need 15,000 pounds within a month. Richard promises he has every chance of meeting that requirement.

Peter and Shelley celebrate their engagement in the Rovers, complete with a ring. Just as Peter waxes eloquent about his love for his 'angel', Shelley, the "lads" arrive [Peter's pals from the Navy].

The Hillmans are off to the pantomime, while Audrey and Archie wait in 'the wings', ready for "operation Miss Marple". Just as they drive off, Emily is picked out in the car's headlamps and Gail mentions to Richard that she doesn't look at all well, with which opinion Richard is in entire agreement. Audrey and Archie slip into the Hillmans' house as soon as they've left... ... and Audrey loses no time in switching on all the lights and starting to go through Richard's paperwork, while Archie looks extremely grave. [Sorry, no pun intended. OK, I lie!!]

The Rovers again, and Peter presents Shelley with two tickets for a holiday in Mexico.... just as his old mate, Ciaran, makes an unwelcome appearance. Peter makes it clear that, unless Ciaran exits immediately, he'll be spending Christmas in hospital, so Ciaran goes off into the night.

On the way to the theatre, Bethany spills some blackcurrant juice over her and they have to return home for a change of clothing.

Meanwhile, at the Hillmans', Audrey has discovered that Gail's house has been re-mortgaged, and Archie discovers some paperwork pertaining to Emily's house. Audrey then opens Richard's laptop, just as the happy family arrive back, in time to catch Audrey and Archie at their nefarious deeds. Gail cannot believe what her 'mam' is up to and she concludes that she is, indeed, mad, and Audrey and Archie are thrown out of the house by Gail, who is livid. Just before Audrey and Archie quit the scene, Richard sidles up to Audrey. 'Nice try', he says.

Iain McDougall


Wednesday 25 December

 

Firstly of course, a very merry Christmas to you all once again! In between opening presents, eating snacks (we had already eaten Christmas dinner!), I managed to watch your favourite programme for 70 minutes and made notes for this report. Such dedication - just send money !!!

The programme starts off at the Hillman's where Gail is discussing with Richard whether to apologies to Audrey. Gail is insists that she is not stepping inside the house again. Richard, of course, concurs with her. Gail explains to the kids that their grandmother will not be joining them today.

Archie is ringing around trying to get a Christmas dinner booking. Everywhere he tries is booked up.

Emily is getting ready to go to church. Norris thinks she shouldn't go in her condition. He tells her that God would understand if she didn't go.

Peter tells Shelley he is still surprised that Kieran turned up at their engagement party. They are getting ready to go to Ken and Deirdre's. They put on a smile as they knock on the door.

Blanche is preparing to go over to Emily's. She tells them she has a present for all of them. Then she says it is not so much a present but money. She gives Ken and Deirdre £10 each, and Peter and Shelley £10 between them, as they are to share everything in the future. Peter thanks her but wished it could have been wrapped :-) Then Blanche queries that there is nothing for her!

Tommy gives Angela a mobile phone for xmas. He says he doesn't want the kids to see it. He then tells the family they can all do what they want for the day.

Audrey decides to go to Gail's after all. Archie says he will come as well; he says he will follow her to the "gates of hell".

Fizz and Toyah are sorting out the furniture for the Christmas dinner. They have invited a number of people over. Maria is annoyed that she wasn't consulted. She goes off to work at the Rovers.

David spots Audrey arriving at his Mum's. She turns up with gifts for the kids. Gail and Richard are not letting her in. She says she had good reason to be in the house last night, particularly after she found out that Richard was re-mortgaging the house. Gail says he was doing it with her blessing, in fact she encouraged him to do it.

Eileen and Steve are in StreetCars. She is wondering about the few number of cabs they have. (I think I have only seen a maximum of 5, including Steve and Vik!). She is annoyed at Steve being so heartless, throwing out a single-parent family at Christmas.

Audrey gives the kids their presents on the doorstep. Sarah says to her that she should just say that she is sorry. Audrey says she cannot, because it would not be true.

As Audrey and Archie leave they bump into Emily. She realizes they are upset. She then invites them round much to Norris' surprise when they arrive. Norris mumbles to Emily that she shouldn't forget that Rita is also coming. When Norris and Emily start bickering, Blanche gets up and says there is only so much she can take and goes home back to Ken and Deirdre's.

When Blanche arrives at home, she tells them that it is because she wanted to be with the family at Christmas. When questioned, Deirdre realizes that she was jealous because Archie had come in with Audrey.

Hayley comes round to the Nelson's with mince pies. Hayley says she will not be alone because she has been invited round to Toyah's. Then she starts to ramble on about Roy being alone. Then she realizes she is talking about her problems when they have their own to contend with.

Les and Kirk are talking with Maria about lunch, and how they are looking forward to it. John, Toyah's lecturer and "friend" comes in looking for her. Les is chuffed that her teacher should come in to see her on xmas day.

John goes round to see Toyah. He has been offered accommodation for a few days in Bordeaux. However they need to leave tomorrow. Toyah with a great deal of hesitancy decides to go.

Everyone is enjoying the meal at Emily's. Audrey explains that they have been barred from Gail's house. Norris, of course, wants to hear more. Archie suggests that she shouldn't talk about it, but Audrey does. Emily thinks that she is just making unfound accusations. Audrey says she will continue making the accusations until someone takes notices.

A girl steps out of van outside the Barlow's. The family are enjoying their meal when in steps a strange girl. They all seem to think it is Tracy. (Well it is actually Tracy, but yet another new actress playing the part!). She announces that she has left Robert. She explains that things have been "dead miserable". She says she found him at home in bed with her best mate.

Deirdre offers to go to the corner shop to get in some more food. Norris comes in with a xmas pudding. He wants to set it on fire, and asks Peter to turn off the lights. He realizes he needs some matches, and goes back to the kitchen. Emily is feeling rather unwell and urges him to hurry. Because it is dark he manages to trip over something and lands on the floor and knocks himself unconscious.

Dev finds Deirdre in the corner shop getting the food. He wonders why she is there. He says it is a strange coincidence they should meet together at xmas again. Deirdre firmly quashes any suggestions and thoughts he may have.

Angela phones her mother and sister on the mobile to wish them a merry xmas. Tommy is a little concerned, because nobody is supposed to know where they are. She feels she can trust them. Much to the annoyance of their daughter who realizes her mother has made the phone call, as she wants to ring her friends.

As Deirdre leaves the shop, with Dev behind her they spot an ambulance outside Emily's. They wonder who it is for.

At the dinner (this one is the three girls), Fizz lets slip that Toyah is going away with her tutor. Les cottons on and considers he is a dirty devil. He thins there are laws against teachers going with their pupils. Toyah and Les start arguing. He leaves and drags Kirk away with him.

At the Hillman's (they are eating xmas dinner!) the doorbell rings. They look at each other. Gail thinks it maybe her mum. However David says it is probably his friend, and goes to the door. David comes back and says there is an ambulance outside. When Richard goes out it has gone. Richard says he will ring Norris to find out what is happening.

Eileen hints that she would like to go home early as it very quiet. When Steve agrees she says she cannot afford to because she needs the money. Steve offers to pay her for a full day. Karen comes in and realizes what Steve has done and is very annoyed that he is paying her not to work. Steve tries to persuade that today should be goodwill to all men.

Gail ascertains that it is Norris taken away in the ambulance and tells Richard. He works out that when Archie and Audrey go she will be alone in the house.

Richard wakes up from a doze on the chair. He decides to go for a work.

Peter is playing cards at the Barlow's, while Ken and Deirdre discuss Tracy. Ken says she has done this before, and therefore they ought to play it cool. Tracy says she is going to find a rich man to look after her and will dance to her tune. (Well my wife chose wrongly there!).

Richard goes round to Emily's. He asks about Norris and offers to help. Emily is very weak. He gets her a drink. (We didn't see if he put anything in the drink).

Ken and Deirdre go off to the Rovers. Blanche comes in and says she closed her eyes for a few minutes and woke to find everyone had gone. They says she was asleep for more than an hour.

Emily keeps dozing off. Richard offers to help her upstairs. She asks how his family are. Richard says he hopes Audrey hasn't put any silly ideas in her head. She says she believes he doesn't make any money from her till she is dead. (Precisely Emily, dear!).

Rita arrives in the Rovers. Ashley asks if she's had a quiet xmas. She said yes besides hearing serious accusations, dealing with an injury in the kitchen and having just arrived back from the hospital.

Emily dozes off again, much to Richard's delight. He takes a pillow over to her to smother her. However he pulls back.

Rita tells Fred that Emily is not well. Fred thinks she'll get over it, she is tough as old boots - old boots he said!

Just when Richard is about to try again he hears the door open. Rita comes in. Norris gave her the keys so she could pop in to look after Emily. Richard looks a bit surprised as Richard leaves.

He is wandering the street contemplating (probably his next move). Gail sees him. He tells her he visited Emily. He thinks she is "not long for this world" !

Phew. It is now 45 minutes into Boxing Day which I don't believe is celebrated other than in England and Wales(?) (not even in Scotland). In case you wondered we had a mild day today. No sign of snow. However seeing some news reports it seems the States may have had it bad.

Enjoy the report. I am off to bed now!

Martin Rosen


Friday 27 December

 

Breakfast at the Barlow household, where the topic of conversation is their house-guest, Tracy, and her future (or not) with husband Robert. The said Tracy appears and is offered bubble and squeak for breakfast, which she wisely declines.

In the Kabin, Rita complains to Audrey about all the end-of-year stuff they print in the papers these days, just as Norris arrives, with a surgical collar and a hang-dog expression, claiming to be a walking miracle. Audrey is first gladdened to hear that Emily is on the mend, then saddened [nay! worse than that] to learn that Richard kept Emily company on Christmas night.

In the cafe, Hayley leaves for work at the factory. Vera [very un-pleased!] is left on her own to cope with the culinary desires of the Weatherfield gourmets, just as Ciaran enters and orders an omelet. Not possible, says Vera, but Ciaran charms Vera into letting him help her behind the counter.

In the Corner Shop, Emily is buying some milk and bread, watched by a grinning Richard, when Norris arrives and takes her home. Richard advises Emily to take care, and Norris not to trip up.

Back at the Barlow's', and Deirdre waxes lyrical about Tracy's first Christmas, with little Tracy watching the lights on the Christmas tree. Deirdre attempts to get Tracy to try to patch-up her marriage to Robert, but Tracy reminds her Mum that she has more failed marriages than most and demands that her Mum stop asking her questions. Her marriage is over. Exit Tracy...

Todd and Sarah arrange to go into town together in the afternoon for some shopping.

Norris collars [sorry!] Audrey outside the Salon, and delights Audrey when he says that he believes Audrey about Richard's evil plans, which Audrey has thwarted - so far. Who will his next victim be? Could it be Emily? [Where is Spider when Aunty Em needs him!?]

The new chef in the cafe, Ciaran, is busy cooking when Peter (his erstwhile pal) enters and demands to know what he's doing here. Ciaran offers an olive branch [not on the menu!] but Peter angrily tells the charming Irishman to 'get lost', and storms out... ...just as Tracy arrives, asking for some butter to get her wedding ring off. Ciaran performs this task, with aplomb, and Tracy is impressed. [Is there no butter in the fridge chez Barlow?]

Peter arrives hot-foot in the Rovers, to tell Shelley about Cieran's latest ploy. However, Peter assures Shelley that there is no way that he can break them up, the happy, loving couple that they are! [Remember Lucy, Peter?] Meanwhile, Archie, Audrey and Norris discuss the evil Richard, and Audrey wishes he were dead.

Chez Barlow, and Tracy is watching television and eating chocolates, to the strains of 'Silent Night'. Deirdre suggests making tea, but Tracy has other plans - she has a date - and, to convince her Mum that her marriage is over, she flings her wedding ring into the fire. Exit Tracy. Enter Blanche, who is not surprised by such behaviour of a girl who got married in purple hob-nailed boots.

Todd and Sarah come home from their shopping trip and Todd thinks he saw a torch shining in Sally's old shop, but Sarah tells him he must have been mistaken...

Ciaran is invited, by Vera, for a drink in the Rovers after his stint in the cafe. Hayley wants him back tomorrow.

In the Rovers, the anti-Richard group continue their vendetta against him, now joined by Rita. Richard enters, and finds a friend in Martin, who doesn't believe a word of what some folk are saying. Vera and Ciaran enter, but Shelley refuses to serve the charming Irishman, even though he apologizes for all that he's done. Out!! Vera follows, obviously ignorant [let me finish!!] of what has taken place.

Again at the Barlow home. Tracy appears, ready for her date, dressed in tight jeans and a very skimpy waistcoat, which Blanche describes as 'decorative'. Deirdre warns her about Ciaran - bad news - but Tracy takes no notice and storms off for her date...

...just as Ciaran, standing in the cold outside the Rovers, gives up and walks away into the night.

Tracy enters the Rovers, expecting to meet Ciaran, but instead she meets a lonely Dev, who is more than willing to chat to this young woman. [Of course, Dev doesn't realize who her Mum is!!] Richard and Martin get pally, and Richard tells Martin that he's been accused of trying to kill Audrey, of burning her house down and terrorizing Audrey. Martin laughs this off, and tells Richard a funny story, to much ribald laughter... ... which is overheard by Audrey, who excuses herself to go to the loo and is intercepted by the wily Richard, who whispers in her ear that, no matter what she says, no one will believe her. Richard goes off to the loo, wishing Audrey yet another eventful year!

The Barlow home again, and [surprise!] they're watching television. Deirdre thinks she'll give Tracy a call on her mobile, just to see where she is...

... and, when Tracy's mobile rings, here she is in bed with Dev. Tracy switches off her mobile and gets back to what she was doing with Dev.

Iain McDougall


Sunday 29 December

 

Tracy wakes snuggled up with Dev.....

Kieran is cooking in the cafe, and flirting outrageously with all the women including Vera who loves the Blarney.............

Deirdre gets up and realizes that Tracy stayed out all night..she's not happy, thinks she's with Kieran, meanwhile Dev drops Tracy outside the cafe

Rita, Audrey, Norris and Archie are in the shop discussing Richard (murdering) Hillman..............they decide to meet at lunchtime at Emily's to continue the discussion

Sarah and Candice go out for a while and Candice tells Sarah that she has heard that Ade is living rough..........Candice leaves and Sarah goes to Sally's old shop and knocks on the door and calls to Ade..............now how did she know he was there??????? He says he is sorry for what happened and begs her not to tell he is there

Dev goes into work full of the joys.................he doesn't know that Tracy is Deirdre's daughter and Deirdre doesn't know it was him her daughter was with

Hayley is in the pub talking to Shelley and Peter...............they don't tell her the full reason why they don't want Kieran around and she tries to justify employing him to them, she cant understand why they are so against him

Tracy is in the pub, when Deirdre joins her.......she is shocked to find she spent the night with a man she just met................

Audrey, Archie, Norris, Rita and Emily discuss Richard...............Emily and Rita are just not convinced.........so Rita leaves,......... as the other 3 leave, Richard is watching and he knocks on Emily's door, she lets him in and he apologizes to her for all the horrible things she's been hearing............he is very convincing

Hayley chats to Kieran about Shelley and Peter and he admits he made a pass at Shelley but he wants to make amends.........so she keeps him on and even says he can lodge with her and Roy, Roy is still away on his dig, so I don't know what he will think about it all

Tracy goes round to the shop...she locks the door and gets Dev in the back room for some saucy rumpy pumpy!!!!! BUT Deirdre has run out of custard!!!!!!!! Oh Heck!

she lets herself in with her key and what does she see.....her daughter and her ex lover........Tracy introduces them, and Deirdre walks out without a word!

Martin Rosen


Monday 30 December

 

Well you would not believe how this report has been compiled. We are having a new floor fitted. Went out this evening while the workmen were doing their thing. When I came home to watch the tape, I dug out the tv and video, and chair to sit in, all full of dust. So here I am dusting myself down, and starting all over again!

It is morning at the Barlow's. Deirdre asks Tracy if she stayed with Dev again. Tracy thinks the reason she stormed out of the shop was because Dev is Deirdre's boss. She says he shows a girl a good time. But, Deirdre says he does it at the drop of a hat!

Sarah and Candice are going to town. Sarah makes an excuse for Candice to go on without her, as she is waiting for her gran to borrow some money.

Karen thinks Steve ought to go to the bank and spin the manager a yarn to get some money. Steve doesn't think it will be that easy.

Audrey realizes Richard's plan is now to maker look more insane. She says she wants to go back to work full time to prove that she is ok.

Hayley tells Keiran that Roy is on his way home from the airport. Keiran suggests that he goes before Roy returns. Hayley won't hear it of it.

Ken discusses with Blanche why Deirdre is so annoyed with Tracy. They reflect that Ken is due in court next week after the incidence with Aiden. She thinks this is much more important than Dev and Tracy.

Tracy asks Dev what her mum has against them. Dev just says that he wouldn't have got involved with her if he knew who she was.

Toyah and her tutor, John, return. Fizz and Maria see them snog in the street. The girls want to know what happened. They seem to be disappointed when she mentions that they went to museums. However Toyah says that he is better than the rest put together.

Dev sends Sunita for another break (she has just returned from one) while he, Deirdre and Tracy discuss what has happened. Deirdre says she doesn't want sleeping with .... Tracy interrupts, boss, neighbour, someone she meets down the pub. She thinks that it should be better because Deirdre at least knows him.

Richard is talking with Joe about the possibility of buying one of his flats. Norris tries to put him off, referring to the problems he has had. Emily tries to offer Richard her support, much to Norris' annoyance. Audrey tells Archie that Gail is talking to Norris, but not to her.

Deirdre is still trying to justify why Tracy shouldn't be with Dev. She tries to suggest because she is married. Tracy says her marriage is ended. After Tracy leaves, Deirdre tries to reason with Dev to end it. He refuses.

Roy is back. He had trouble with the baggage reclaim at the airport.

Shelley suggests to Keiran that he should leave now that Roy's back. He says he is trying to make it up to her and Peter.

Roy tells Hayley that as much as he enjoyed his trip there is nothing like a lunchtime rush! Keiran introduces himself to Roy and then goes behind the counter. Roy is astonished and confused.

Sunita ask Dev about Tracy and Deirdre. Dev tells her to drop the subject.

John comes round to see Toyah. Maria tells him she is at Emily's, but invites him in to wait for her. Meanwhile Toyah is telling Emily how good he is.

Sarah and Candice come back from town. Candice suggests Sarah has been trying to get rid of her all day. Then Candice hears a knock from the shop and realizes Aiden is there. This starts an argument as Sarah seems to want to help him.

Steve tells Karen that he had no luck with the bank manager. He will have no option but to chuck out Eileen and the boys. Karen offers to help as much as she can, but doing overtime, and whatever is necessary to raise money.

Sarah returns home and see that her mother is worried. Gail says that she is worried about her mum.

Tracy is still arguing with Deirdre. She thinks she is holding something back.

Toyah returns home to meet John. They start talking about New Year's Eve. John says that they have nothing planned. So the others suggest that they come to the Rovers.

Kieran goes up to have a shower. Roy is very confused, even though Hayley has tried to explain.

Ken asks Deirdre what is her problem with Dev. She says it is too soon after Robert. She says she knows Dev. He thinks it is an over-reaction. Ken wonders if it is not something else.

Martin Rosen



Updates written by Richard Whitbread, Amanda Soppit, Martin Rosen, Kathy Brown, Gareth Chess, Audrey Watson, Janette McMylor, Sue Nicholson and Iain McDougall


  corrie.net
Back to Updates
index page
Back to corrie.net