Episode updates - August 2003

Katy calls to see Tyrone, to apologize for her Dad's violence and, just as she's touching Tyrone's bruised face, Maz passes and puts two and two together. Maz goes off in a minute [and a huff]. Tracy gets the cold shoulder treatment from Sunita and Ciaran, but Tracy remains stoical.

The Grimshaw home, and Eileen is again bemoaning her parlous financial state to Jason and his Dad. Jason tries, unsuccessfully, to assure his Mum that things will get better.

The Nelsons' house, and Katy is remaining tight-lipped about her 'mystery' boy-friend, much to her Dad's displeasure. Angie reminds her hubby that she's 16 and could get married, while Craig has a new-found respect for his Dad's smacking Tyrone.

The Websters', and Sally wonders [aloud] to Kevin if Tommy hits Angela at home. Rosie is just about to go to her first lesson at the Stage School, with encouragement from Sally and a grunt from Kevin.

Back room at the Rovers, and Tracy has skived off work, yet again. She wonders why everyone seems to hate her; she's done nothing wrong. Bev calmly explains a few facts of life to her - Roy is a popular person, and what she did to him was, to say the least, despicable. [Bev has selective memory loss here, as she was party to the bet in the first place!] Bev adds that, since Peter and Shelley will be back next week, Tracy will have to find alternative accommodation by then. [Tracy's stoicism is beginning to crack!]

In the cafŽ [does no one have breakfast or a cuppa at home in this street?], Tyrone is being fussed over by Vera and supported by Jack. Tyrone is adamant that he'd have smacked Tommy first, had his hands not been full, just as the assailant enters. [Tyrone's face pales at the sight of Tommy and his bravado evaporates in an instant.] Vera threatens to see Tommy in court for his assault on Tyrone.

In Streetcars, Karen tells Steve that she is off for an interview at Freshcos, with much mirth from Dev and Eileen, when Eileen suggests that, if she wants a reference, to call her - good accounting skills, trustworthy, good with people and so on! Steve is not amused. [Eileen manages a smile!!]

Mike arrives in the Rovers for a swift whisky and he tells Bev that, if things don't improve at the factory, he'll have to learn how to operate a sewing machine. Sally, having a break from the betting shop, spies a doleful Tracy and warns her that, if she doesn't come into work, she'll be out of a job; this is Tracy's last chance to redeem herself.

The 'surveyor', Mr Wakefield, arrives at the Watts' to inspect the property, and an unsuspecting Curly shows him round the house. [The writer doesn't quite understand what this scam is, as yet, but all may be revealed, maybe!]

At the garage, Kevin attempts to broker a peace between Tommy and Tyrone and, after a few moments, the two mechanics shake hands, following Kevin's ultimatum - make peace or it's the dole, for one or both!

The post has arrived at the Grimshaws' and it's more bills, which Eileen can't pay. Jason attempts to make amends by making dinner. [He opened a tin, apparently; not too bad for a young man...]

In the cafŽ, Fizz cajoles a jittery Roy about what he's going to do about telling Hayley what happened, but Roy wants to tell Hayley face to face, not over the phone. Moreover, he accepts total responsibility for what happened. Vera recommends that 'what she doesn't know won't hurt her', but Roy is not swayed by this wisdom. Deirdre enters the cafŽ, ostensibly to apologize to Roy for what Tracy did to him. Poor Roy escapes upstairs. Deirdre tells Fizz that 'she could kill Tracy' for what she did, and Fizz advises her to 'get in the queue'! [This is going to be a longish queue, eh?]

Back at the garage, Kirk arrives to talk to Tyrone: he needs £100 to help Les perpetrate his scam... Kevin 'invites' Tommy and Tyrone for a drink in the Rovers after work, to 'bury the hatchet' once and for all. [Where is this hatchet going to be buried, eventually?]

Just as the 'surveyor' completes his inspection of the Watts' home, Emma arrives, all excited; she's found the perfect house for them. All seems to be going so well - Mr Poole wants a quick sale, and Emma and Curly look forward to imminent pastures new.

In the Rovers, Kevin makes it clear to Tommy and Tyrone that he wants them to end this apparent feud, now. Bev suggests to Tracy that, since she's not working, she could be out looking for a flat. [Tracy is beginning to look ever more uneasy about her imminent future accommodation; her options seem to lessen by the hour.] Mike, looking very world-weary, comes in and is accosted by Steve, who pleads his wife's case for a job at Underworld. At first, Mike scoffs at his cheek, but relents; Karen can start again on Monday, for a trial period. Sally again finds the local pariah, Tracy, in the pub when she should be at work. Sally sacks her, there and then. [Do I hear you saying "poor Tracy"? Thought not.]

Mr Poole and Mr Wakefield [the 'surveyor'] meet in the cafŽ and Mr Poole hands the latter a few crisp notes of the sterling variety. Fizz and Kirk arrive, and Mr Poole reminds Kirk that money is owed, and has to be paid. [The writer - is he thick? - still doesn't understand quite what is going on!!]

Back at the Webster happy home, Rosie is enchanted about her first visit to the Stage School; there's to be an Open Night on the 16th, and she's to take part. [Rosie smiles!!] Sophie seems to be of lesser importance these days...

In the Rovers, Karen is not too chuffed at Steve's news that she can start on Monday at Underworld: is it her supervisor's job? [Maybe not, Karen!] Karen fears that she'll have to crawl, and will she be accepted by her former 'mates'? A grinning Dev arrives, full of bonhommie towards Ciaran; Dev shakes Ciaran's hand. Dev has found some left-over crackers from Christmas, and has kept them for Ciaran: maybe Ciaran can find some more cheap baubles in them to complement Sunita's 'old' engagement ring? [What is the male equivalent for 'bitchy'?] Dev notices that the recent cocktail list has disappeared - maybe the old, known, things are best - just as Sunita arrives, to see her two suitors looking like good friends. [All is not what it appears, Sunita.] Maz meets Tyrone, and tells him that he's so much admired by women, including her. She can't stop, but she gives him a peck on the cheek...

Chez Barlow, and a chastened Tracy arrives to talk to her Mum, looking for a favour. Tracy admits that she has 'messed up' and that her Mum must be ashamed of her. Everyone hates her, Tracy says, close to tears. [I did warn you to get the Kleenex ready!] However, Deirdre has had enough of her wayward daughter; once, Deirdre could have forgiven her anything, but she's gone too far this time, so Deirdre orders her out of her life, now and for ever.

The Nelson home, and it's not a happy home either. Katy refuses to speak to her Dad: he's just a bully. Tommy tries to talk to his 'little girl', but Katy doesn't want to hear what he has to say.

Tracy creeps into the yard at the back of the Rovers, rejected by everyone. She has no friends, no family, no place to stay and, it seems, no future. As she contemplates all this, she breaks down in painful sobs...

Monday 4 August

We open in the back room of the pub, with Emily and Tracey talking about the unplanned pregnancy. Tracey is planning a termination, but Emily begs her to think about it. Tracey is adamant she is 'getting rid' of it, and she tells Emily to keep quiet about it. Just then Bev comes in and enquires whether Tracey is staying at Emily's. Tracey says she isn't. Bev asks her where she is going to go then. Emily asks Bev if Tracey really has to go. Bev tells Emily it's a family matter (in other words mind your own business) but Emily reminds her that Peter is Tracey's brother. But Bev won't be moved, Shelley is the pub manager and she and Peter will be back soon. Tracey has got till this afternoon to move out.

Roy is talking on the phone to Haley. She's coming home and he tells her she can stay longer if she likes. Haley obviously cannot be persuaded to change her mind, she'll be home this evening. Roy puts down the phone and turns to Fizz at the counter, who tells him that Haley's got to find out sooner or later but everyone's on Roy's side and Haley will see that. Roy just thinks that Haley will see that the trust between them has been desecrated by him. Life as Roy has known it is about to come to an end, he's going to break Haley's heart and his marriage will be over.

Out in the street Tommy and Angela, on their way to work, meet Katy coming out of the Kabin. They wonder why she's up so early, and so cheerful, especially with Tyrone being in Blackpool. Ange comments that Martin is bringing Sara, Todd and Bethany back today, so Katy can hang around with them. Tommy is doubtful that she'd want to.

Round the corner come Karen and Steve. He's proud that she's going back to work at Underworld. Karen isn't so sure, she's worried, especially as she's going to be supervisor again. (Or so she thinks!) Steve assures her it'll be ok, and to believe in herself, he does!

In the factory Janice sees Karen and comes in and announces loudly that she thought it wouldn't be long before Karen was sniffing round looking for her old job back. Karen informs her that she's a few steps behind, she already got her job back. Fizz arrives, wondering what Karen is doing there. Sonia queries whether Karen's going to be supervisor. Karen tells them all that she is. Janice and Fizz immediately say in that case, they're not going to work then. Mike Baldwin comes in, demanding to know what's going on, and it's his factory and he'll employ who he likes. Janice and Fizz say they won't work then. Mike tells them to go home in that case. They ask who'll run his machines and he tells them he'll just retire, he's had enough! They ask if Karen's really going to be supervisor, and he assures them she isn't, he's not letting her anywhere near his office! So the girls grudgingly start work, with Fizz announcing that they might have to work with Karen, but they don't have to speak to her. Karen's face is a picture!

Curly and Emma are at home, they can't believe how they were conned. Curly is worried that it means they'll still be living there when Les gets out. Emma reminds him they're going to look at a house at the weekend. The phone rings and Emma answers it. It's Mr. Poole (Les's accomplice). He wants to come and see the house again. Emma assures him that's fine and makes an appointment for 1pm. Curly wonders what on earth she's doing. She tells him two can play at silly beggars!

In the factory Karen is trying to get the girls to speak to her by asking if anyone wants a coffee. They ignore her, talking among themselves about an odd whining noise they can hear. Karen wants to sort out their differences, but the girls aren't having any of it.

Candice and Katy meet in the street. Candice asks Katy if she knows what time Sarah and co. are getting back. Katy asks her how should she know? Candice points out that she does live next door to Sarah and work with Martin. She wants to tell Sarah about Katy and Tyrone being an item!

Coming along the street, Tracey sees Haley returning. Haley goes into the Kabin to buy wrapping paper to wrap up a gift she has bought for Roy. Norris makes some snide remarks....when the cat's away......Haley wonders what he's on about and Rita blusters that the remarks are aimed at herself. Norris tries to find out what Roy's present is, but Haley tells him it's a secret. Norris mutters that it's not the only one.

Mr. Poole arrives at Curly's door with some tale about having some legal questions he needs answering. Emma comes downstairs and assures him he's come to the right place, and pulls out her police ID card.

In the cafe Haley and Roy exchange a welcome hug. Roy stammers that he has to stay and work as Vera is out. Haley tells him she'll just put her things upstairs and come and give him a hand. And - she has a surprise for him later!

Emma tells Mr. Poole it's a serious offence to impersonate a house buyer. Arnie tries to bluff it out at first telling her he doesn't know what she's talking about. Emma tells him she knows it's all part of a syndicate to paralyse the property market, and he's part of some big cartel. Part of a ring. Arnie confesses that Les put him up to it and he's honestly not part of any ring. Emma tells him to wise up and go straight, he's too dumb to be a crook. He makes a hasty exit.

Steve and Dev are in the Rovers when Eileen comes in. Dev asks what she's doing there, and who's on the phones? Eileen tells him it's Patrick, who's not very good at it. But if Jason were to have a job for emergency times.....Dev groans, not the J-word again! How about washing the taxis, asks Eileen, but Dev will not be moved. Eileen sighs, well, nothing ventured!

Behind the bar Bev tells Ciaran she'll put in a good word for him when Shelley gets back.

In the street, Gail is greeting Martin, Sarah, Bethany and Todd upon their return. Tommy comes up enquiring about the holiday. Then Angela comes along with Sonia from the factory and sings Martin's praises. Tommy tells Martin he could be well in there (with Sonia). Katy comes along and goes indoors without speaking to Martin, but looks and smiles!

Tracey gets back to Emily's from a visit to the doctor. She's definitely pregnant and can have a termination. Emily tries to dissuade her, telling her she has a living creature inside her. Tracey tells her it's just a glorified tadpole, and it won't be too bright anyway if Roy Cropper has had anything to do with it. Emily tells her she doesn't have to keep up the pretence with her, she feels Tracey's been pretty upset lately. When Tracey had her kidney transplant she was told it might affect her fertility, and although she's pregnant now this might be her last chance. In ten years time she may not be able to have a baby.

Katy is at Martin's flat. They talk quite awkwardly at first, then Katy asks if he missed her. He tells her he thought about her all the time and they hug.

Roy is trying to talk to Haley, up in their flat. She gives him the driving gloves and asks how the lessons are going. He tells her, falteringly, that something happened while she was away. Suddenly he has all of her attention.

Katy and Martin come out of the bedroom, adjusting their clothing. Martin then tells Katy he's sick of all the secrecy and would like them to be like a normal couple. Katy tells him all hell would be let loose if it got out. He doesn't care what people think, he wants to tell their families. Katy is horrified.

Roy continues his confession to Haley. He tells her he had two glasses of champagne at the wedding reception and it went straight to his head. Haley looks amused and asks if that's it - he got drunk? He tells her there's more. He spoke to Tracey, and one thing led to another, and they had relations. Haley, stunned, asks, "You had what?" He tells her he committed an act of adultery. "What? You had sex with Tracey?" asks an amazed Haley. Roy tells her yes, he did.

Anne Logan

It starts off tonight with Hayley not believing what happened with Roy and Tracy. Roy explains to her what happened, he got drunk and cant remember anything.

At Martins, Katy tells him that its not a good idea to go public yet, her dad will go ballistic. Katy has to go, they havenât had long together and Martin wants to spend more time with her and will take about it tomorrow. He's been away for a week.

Back to Hayley and Roy where Roy is telling Hayley how bad he feels about the whole thing and has dreading telling her. He says there is no excuse for what has happened, Hayley reckons that he wanted to do it. Roy denies this, and says ÎIf only he hadnât got drunkâ. Hayley thinks she is in the way of them being together, Roy explains about the bet, Ken had told him. Do all the Barlows know? Well yes as they were all up for breakfast when he left. Does everyone know, Yes.

In the pub, the happy newly weds return from their honeymoon. Shelley gives Sunita a hug and notices the ring. If she's happy then Shelley is. Tracy enters the pub and is really pleased to see Peter and asks if she can have a word in the back room.

At the factory, Janice invites everyone down the pub apart from Karen. Karen walks out. Ang tells Janice not be so hard and go and invite her (she doesnât). Mike has a new client coming to see him, Preston King, but he's already 2 hours late. He could bring a lot of business his way.

Back to Roy and Hayley, Hayley's crying, Roy tries to console her but she tells him that he is embarrassed because she is crying. Roy never wanted to sleep with anyone else apart for her, or he didnât think he did. He must have done.

In the back room of the pub, Tracey tells Peter what has happened. Peter doesnât want her there either, but Tracey hasnât got anywhere else to go. She desperate and cries. She paid for what she's done. Peter tells her that he will speak to Shelley about her staying. In the bar, the factory girls ignore Karen. Steve comes in. Peter comes into the bar (from the backroom), and Shelley asks Peter does he know about the Croppers. He does, and she wants to stay living at the pub a bit longer. Shelley looks at her mum, ÎWhat else has happened?â Ciaran walks in.

Craig rings home, mum missing him still her baby. Katy suggests a BBQ for this weekend, and invite the neighbours round like Martin etc. Ang and Tommy think itâs a good idea, they go out into the back garden as they might have one out there. Bang on the door, Martin wants to tell her Mum and Dad about them. Katy tries to stop him but he's adamant. Ang and Tommy come in, and shocked to see Martin so soon. They invite Martin to stay for a cup of tea and they discuss the holiday. ÎWhat has happened here thenâ, Martin enquired. Ang fills Martin in about Katy's new boyfriend and about Tommy thumping Tyrone. Martin looks at Katy.

Shelley is annoyed that Ciaran is behind the bar. Bev says he's a good worker and Fred agrees with her. Of course, its up to Shelley, she is the manager!!! Steve tells Karen he cant understand why she is standing for being so badly treated by her colleagues, if it was him she would certainly say and do something. he's right !! She storms over the girls, and tells the girls if it wasnât for her then they would have jobs, she could have taken the money and run. Karen goes back to join Steve. The girls leave to go to another pub, Janice goes to Karen and invites her. Karen kissing Steve and follows.

Back at Roy's, Hayley tells him that she couldnât wait to home to him and she missed him. Why should Hayley stay. Roy doesnât know. As Hayley snatches her coat, Roy says that he's directionless and lost without her. He loves her and is scared of losing her.

Martin leaves Ang and Tommy's, Katyâs going to see Sara. Katy tells Martin that she used Tyrone as a cover, and that she didnât want to tell anyone incase her Dad thumped Martin. Martin agrees and says that they should leave telling me for now.

In the factory, Harry is cleaning, Preston King comes in, rather aggressive. Harry informs him that Mike has gone for the night, he got fed up waiting for him. Preston asks Harry why has Mike got to send his Junior to talk to him. Doesnât Harry know who he is. Harry asks him not to flick his ash on the clean floor. Preston grabs his chest and falls to the floor.

Emily sees Ken and Deirdre and tells them that Tracy is unhappy and needs them. Neither Ken or Deirdre want Tracy back, she's burnt her bridge this time.

Back again with Hayley and Roy, Hayley thinks that Tracey just wanted her own back on Hayley as she was horrible to her in the pub. Tracey just wants revenge but is Roy sure he cant remember anything. He is.

Shelley tells Ciaran to get behind the bar and start work, but donât tell her down. Peter thanks her, they are as solid as a rock now and nothing will come between them. Tracey walks in the pub and Shelley tells her to pack her bags and go.

Again at Hayley and Roy's, Hayley thinks that Roy got drunk, Tracey put him to bed just to make it look like something happened. But there is no proof. Hayley informs Roy that she is going to talk to Tracey and get the proof.

Harry goes into the pub and sees Mike, Harry orders double whiskey. He wants overtime and explains to Mike what has happened with Preston King. Fred reckons he needs this double whiskey for his shock, but Harry says no, he gave him mouth to mouth and can still taste the cigars.

Tracey leaves the pub, and puts her luggage in a taxi. Emily sees her. Tracey is going to London things are too awkward. Deirdre and Ken turn up and tell her she's caused nothing but trouble since she's been back, and Deirdre is ashamed to call her a daughter. Tracey cries. Tracey tells Emily she hasnât decided about the baby yet, she needs time to think. Emily gives her a hug and tells her to take care.

As Tracey is leaving, Roy and Hayley see the taxi. Hayley bangs on the window, Tracey ignores her. Emily tells Hayley, Tracey is going London. The taxi drives away. Roy says at least they can put all this behind them now that she has gone but Hayley says no, she cannot live with Îwhat ifsâ.

Jayne Barber

Morning at the Croppers' flat, and Hayley is trying to winkle more details out of Roy about his alleged night of passion with Tracy. Roy, however, claims to remember nothing about the night, apart from what he's already divulged to Hayley. Roy blames himself entirely for whatever happened, but Hayley doesn't think his story makes much sense. If only she could talk to Tracy. Hayley dreads returning to work.

Ken and Deirdre come out of their house, still talking about [who else?] Roy and Hayley. Deirdre admits to Ken that she misses her daughter. [Did I hear that right?]

At the bus stop, Martin and Katy meet up, both looking forward to the Nelsons' barbeque tonight. [Only thing is - they'll be together but not 'together', as it were.] Martin thinks that they should come clean, but Katy advises caution; they have to wait for 'the right moment'. [Say when Katy's twenty-one, or pregnant, whichever comes first?] Steve presses Karen to contact her solicitor about the decree nisi; otherwise, their divorce will go ahead. Katy and Martin still differ about letting folk know of their relationship or not. They concoct a little code for tonight's barbie - 'How are things at the hospital?' means... [Well, you get the picture, I'm sure!]

Back at the Croppers', and Roy still can't remember what happened. Hayley doubts whether two glasses of champagne would be enough for Roy to lose his memory, and his self-control. [Hayley obviously disbelieves Roy's version of events.]

In the Kabin, Shelley learns from Deirdre that Tracy has departed for London. Tracy apparently left her room at the Rovers in a mess; she also left some personal effects, like anti-ageing cream. [Deirdre wonders if it wasn't anti-social cream!] Shelley approaches Norris about Curly's house; when can they view it? Norris, being the keeper of the key, insists on their making an appointment to view.

In Underworld, Angie is looking forward to the imminent barbeque, just as the door swings open - Hayley is back, and loses no time in calling the workers to attention. [A hush descends...] Hayley proclaims to all that, if she hears any snide remarks, laughter, or even a tiny titter, there'll be trouble!

Peter, fresh from his holiday 'with the lads', as he claims to Lucy, is the doting father. [Whoever said that 'someone who loves babies can't be all bad' sure got that wrong!] Peter will look after the little one to allow Lucy to go off to the gym.

In the hospital, Preston [who suffered a heart attack in Underworld the other night] is recovering, watched over by his wife, Penny. Harry, the hero of the hour, arrives to visit and return a fat wallet which he dropped. Penny is very impressed by this nice man, Harry.

Another place, another visit; Arnie pays a call to see Les, in prison, and gives him the bad news. Arnie's been rumbled by the Watts, and they now know that Les is behind the scam to delay their house sale. Les sees no chance of an early release. [See? It's not all bad news here!!]

Underworld, Hayley cuts her finger on a machine and Angie proffers sympathy and a plaster. In the office, Mike is glad to hear that Preston is on the mend: he'll be able to sign the contract soon. Harry, however, predicts doom for Mike if he continues his dissolute life-style of large meals, copious quantities of wine and whisky, plus cigars. Mike wisely orders Harry to get back to work. Fiz tells Hayley that she means the world to the girls in the factory; there will be no jokes. [Well, no more!]

In Streetcars, Karen has made a decision: she wants the divorce procedure to, well, proceed... [Steve is lost for words.]

The Nelson barbie is in full swing, and Martin and Katy sit together and have a beer. [Exciting stuff, this!]

Karen explains her decision about the divorce to a disbelieving Steve. They should divorce, then they could get married again, but this time, it'll be a grand wedding. [Big weddings cost a lot more than a grand, Karen!! The writer knows these things.]

Back at the barbie, Martin thinks that he and Katy should circulate. Martin does. Katy doesn't. Angie discovers that her daughter is drinking beer, and reminds Katy of her medical condition, and her age. Martin is 'encouraged' by Tommy and Angela to meet Sonya, the new girl at the factory. They chat, watched by a jealous Katy.

Steve continues to pour cold water [not literally, unfortunately!] on Karen's idea for a big wedding with a fancy frock.

Shelley and Peter turn up at the appointed time to view the Watts' house, with Norris as their guide. Norris has the good grace to be honest - he just wants a 'nosey' around for himself.

Ken meets Roy coming out of the cafŽ. How are things going? Not well. Roy goes off for a lonely walk to think things through.

The barbie, and Katy continues to scowl as Martin chats to Sonya. Katy gets Martin on his own, in the kitchen, and vents her fury about Martin's chatting-up Sonya. After a short 'exchange of views', Katy decides that it's the time and place to make their relationship public, but Tommy interrupts this little tete-a-tete [phew!!], giving Katy the chance to excuse herself for a lie down, while Martin returns to the party.

In the Rovers, Peter and Shelley discuss the pros and cons of buying the Watts' house. [One big con, of course, is Les Battersby - sorry about that pun, but it's intentional.] Karen continues her verbal assault on Steve about their big wedding. [Steve reckons that Karen has a 'spending disorder'.] "If you loved me, you'd divorce me!" she says.

The barbie is nearly over, and Sonya is a bit drunk. However, Martin offers to escort her home, much to Katy's disgust. But it's not all doom and gloom...

... Sorry, it is! [I lied.] Roy and Hayley share a quiet dinner in their flat, and all seems to be well, as far as Hayley is concerned; she can cope with what's happened, but Roy can't. He has betrayed her, she doesn't believe what he says, so the only option he has is moving out...

Tonight's episode starts at Roy and Hayley's. Hayley is preparing peppermint tea and toast but Roy, still racked with guilt has no appetite for any food! Roy feels he has has let Hayley down, Hayley asks if he is thinking of leaving, she wants him to stay. Hayley still thinks he was the victim of a joke.

In the street Emily meets Curly and Emma outside their house, they have put an offer on a house they like and are keen for a buyer for their house, they would only feel happier if there was a serious offer for it! Emily reminds them of the next door neighbour - Les...

Breakfast at the Harris's - Tommy and Angie are discussing their little scheme to get Martin and Sonia together. Katy is not amused but of course cannot tell her parents and slams out of the house leaving Tommy and Angie thinking its yet another teenage tantrum.

In Roy's Rolls Karen and Steve are discussing the "divorce", meanwhile Hayley is trying to convince Roy that if Steve and Karen are still together after all they have been through, there must be some hope for them. Karen is still unsuccessful in trying to get Steve round to her way of thinking. Hayley wants her marriage to survive.

Meanwhile at prison Les Battersby is due to see the Governor - this I think is for a parole hearing. Les is so shocked at the miscarriage of justice that he feels the Home Secretary will intervene and keep Les in for ever (please).

Back at Martins flat Katy nearly breaks the door down to confront him about what she thinks is a presumed night of passion between Martin and Sonia. Is this jealousy? Katy doesn't believe Martin when he says he just took her home and when he tells Katy he is taking David to his football match Katy says she will stay there for two hours and may smash everything up in the meantime - hmm shouldn't take long.

At Emma and Curly's, Curly is on the phone to the estate agent their offer for the place they like has been accepted, Curly is keen to make sure no-one else sees the property. Curley suggests to Emma that they up the mortgage loan so that they can drop the asking price on their house by £5,000 as all they have had so far is one, and bogus at that, offer. Once Les gets out of prison it might be harder to sell.

In Streetcars Eileen is on the phone to someone she owes £50.00 to. Steve and Karen come in now and Steve tells Eileen to go for dinner. Eileen asks Steve for a sub on her wages to cover the £50.00 but Steve cannot help her. Karen once Eileen leaves is still trying to convince Steve about the divorce.

Back in the street Martin sees Tommy outside his flat just about to knock on the door! Martin asks what he wants, Tommy suggests dinner in the Rovers, Martin says nothing went on but Tommy wants all the news. Martin looks extremely uncomfortable here..

A knock on the door also at Emma and Curly's - Arnie "Mr. Poole" is back and this time he wants to make a serious offer for his house and shows a bag full off £10,000 cash for the deposit.

Martin is back in his flat where Katy has just had a shower and is wearing a towel and not much else it seems. Martin tells her that her dad was downstairs but was after Martin to go to the Rovers for lunch, here Katy gets told that she will have to wait another half an hour until Martin gets back from lunch and launches into a "poor me" act. Katy wonders if he is really going to the pub or is he really seeing Sonia and could have spend all morning with her. Here the age difference is revealed 16 (Katy) and 35 (Martin). Katy says she may or may not be here when Martin returns.

Back at Curly and Emma's - Arnie is saying how much he likes this place and will bring his dad to live here - a bonus will be having Les living next door ( yes - I couldn't believe it either!) The £10,000 has come from Dad's savings and he also has a mortgage but Emma and Curly are not convinced even when he offers another £4,000 as he is shown the door.

In the Rovers Bev is serving Karen and Steve drinks paid by Karen another attempt to get Steve to change his mind, Tommy and Martin are discussing Sonia while Angie and Sonia are at another table discussing the last nights events (or lack of them) Sonia thinks Martin has got another female interest - if Angie only knew! Meanwhile Tommy is still trying to get information out of Martin who reminds him that his last marriage broke after an affair Tommy apologises here and Martin leaves saying he has work to do at the flat.

Roy is giving the cafe a good clean and Hayley wants Roy to go and change so they can go out to the Rovers for a drink, Roy is not keen on this but he does as told as Hayley reminds him that he cannot hide away..

Back to Martins - Katy is still there and is dressed and apologies for her earlier behaviour. Katy asks what he sees in her (I wonder as well..). All is made up now.

At Streetcars Karen has had no luck so far in getting Steve to change his mind. Karen is a determined person though. Steve still says "NO". Karen threatens to divorce for real as the phone rings to save Steve from answering.

Meanwhile back in prison Les has been trying to get hold of Kirk (in Blackpool?), Les worried about what has happened to the house, everything and everyone is against Les - according to Les.

Hayley and Roy are welcomed into the Rovers by Bev where they are treated to orange and lemonade on the house by way of apology. Hayley hopes the street has had enough entertainment at their expense and Bev says that she hopes its the last they see of Tracey.

Audrey sees Fiz coming out of the ladies and reminds her the rent is due, Fiz says she will remind Marie who according to Audrey was going to remind Fiz - must be a mix-up says Fiz!

Karen is at the bar when Steve comes in, Karen looking slightly better dressed than usual, can she be using a different tack on Steve and again he does not succumb to persuasion. Naughty night in ok, divorce - no chance.

Emily sees Roy and Hayley as she leaves but Hayley thinks she does not want the embarrassment of talking to them in public, especially as she knows Tracey is pregnant and Roy could be the father.

A slanging match then starts between Karen and Steve which end in an early shower and beer shampoo for Steve who is understandably quite angry Karen runs out of the pub chased by Steve while Roy suggests to Hayley that they may need to change their role model!

As Steve chases Karen down the street we see Martin seeing Katy out (how come no-one sees them here?) Katy reminds Martin to keep away from other women.

Steve and Karen enter their house it looks like the promise of an interesting evening, or the beer shampoo has finally made Steve change his mind about the divorce.

Back at Curly and Emma's, Curly is looking at the finances, they cannot afford the new house unless they can sell their house - to Arnie? The phone rings it is the estate agent to say that there have been four enquiries on the house.

Back at the prison Les looks dumbstruck - he has been told he will be released in the morning - watch out Mick and Emma!

My video has decided to start eating up tapes, so I only got one look at tonight's programme, hope I got it all in. Here's tonight's report:

Over in Curly and Emma's house, they're packing up in preparation for moving. Janice arrives and enquires whether they've sold the house. Curly tells her no, but they've reduced the price hoping for a quick sale. Janice asks if they'd like to come for a drink in the Rovers with her and Mick this evening. When she's gone, Curly remarks that he'll be glad when they get away from those two, and also hope they've gone before the other one (Les) comes out of prison. (Little does he know......)

Les meets Patrick, a taxi driver for Street Cars. Patrick tells him if he knew he was coming out he'd have met him. Les says he's been phoning Kirk, but Kirk hasn't been answering the phone.

Steve tells Karen he's changed his mind about the divorce. He'll still agree to it, but it has to be on the grounds of her adultery not his. Karen isn't too pleased about that. Steve says then it'll have to be on grounds of unreasonable behaviour - hers! She doesn't mind that considering they can both be unreasonable, and says she'll phone the solicitor that very afternoon.

Hayley is just going off to work. She tells Roy she won't be home for her dinner (or lunch as some of us call it!) She's going to the pub with the factory girls.

Martin and Katy meet up in the street. Giving all the signs of just having a casual conversation, they tell each other they miss each other very much.

Les arrives outside his house in Patrick's taxi. There are no banners up, no welcoming party. Not much of homecoming is it? Patrick tells him the taxi ride is on him, Les doesn't have to pay.

Sarah and Bethany are at Todd's flat. Todd would like to take them both out but he's broke. Sarah says it doesn't matter, they've got each other.

Steve and Patrick are in the taxi office when Les turns up. Steve tells Les he'll buy him a drink in the Rovers later on. Les however, is going to have a curfew between 7pm and 7am, so he can't be out at night. He can, however, work the day shift on the taxis. Steve tells him he can't offer him a job, he's been inside, he's done time. Les protests that he's an innocent man, and Steve can't do this to him. Steve tells him he can, because it's not just up to him, Dev is a partner and Dev wouldn't like it.

In the Rovers Return, the factory girls are ordering drinks and hot-pots. Hayley asks what they've all been talking about while she's been away. There's an awkward silence, then Janice tells her they've been talking about Tracy Preston and what she did to Roy and wondering how Hayley would take it.

Curly and Emma are outside their house putting up the For Sale board, when who should come along but Les. They're not too pleased to see him and tell him so when he asks. He says Emma put him in jail for something he didn't do.

Les then walks into the Rover's to be greeted warmly by Fizz. Les asks where Kirk is, there's a pile of dirty dishes in the sink. Fizz tells him Kirk's in Blackpool with Tyrone. (My goodness, what must those dishes be like by now??) Les wants to buy Fizz a drink, but she has to get back to work, she's already late, but after work she will do some shopping and come and cook Les his tea. (Or his dinner as some of us call it!)

Les asks if he's still barred from the pub, as he was before he went to prison. Shelley tells him he's not, as long as he doesn't cause any trouble. Peter even buys Les a pint.

In Todd's flat Sarah is cuddling Bethany who has apparently just fallen and bumped her head. There's no cut there, just a little bump. Todd comes and, being very paternal, takes her from Sarah.

In the factory Sonia is asking if the hairdresser's across the road is any good. Janice tells her not to let Maria near her hair, after all she stole Toyah's boyfriend! (Does this reflect on hairdressing skills?) The general agreement is that Audrey is all right as a hairdresser. Hayley tells them she might get a new look with her hair! (New wig on the way I think....!) Fizz tells Janice that Les is out of prison. Janice is not happy to hear that news.

In the corner shop Les asks Dev for his job back. Dev tells him he just can't let him drive a taxi again, he might hit someone else. Protesting his innocence, Les gets quite angry, a fact which Dev is very quick to point out. Les storms out.

In Curly's house, Emma is lamenting the fact that she has to go back to Newcastle tomorrow, and leave Curly alone with Les on the loose. Curly is sure Les is all talk and won't do anything, Emma should concentrate on her new job.

Todd comes out of the bedroom, where he's been reading to Bethany. He tells Sarah she fell asleep halfway through. (Is there going to be an emergency I wonder? Child falling asleep after bump on the head?) Peter knocks on the door, asking for his rent money, Todd is two weeks behind. (He got all these jobs, what's he done with the money?) Sarah tells Peter the rent will be paid tomorrow, and when Peter's gone she tells Todd she'll take it from her savings account.

At Les's house the Curfew Team have arrived to tag him. Les is still protesting his innocence.

At Sally and Kevin's house, Sally is coaching Rosie through her dance routine. Kevin comes in wondering what's for tea. Sally, without taking her eyes, or her concentration from Rosie, tells him she'll think about it later. Sophie comes in and asks for a new dress. Still watching Rosie, Sally tells her no. Kevin goes out, irritated.

Fizz arrives at Les's with the shopping, ready to cook tea. The policewoman calls her Mrs. Battersby and tells her she'll know where her husband is now. Fizz tries to explain that they're not married, but the policewoman tells her their private life is no concern of hers!

Karen tells Steve that she's spoken to her solicitor and they can't unravel the divorce proceedings, so it will have to carry on on the grounds of his adultery. Steve says they could just stop the divorce altogether, but Karen insists she wants the wedding she never had. Dev comes in to the taxi office, and tells them to stop rowing. They tell him they're not rowing.

Sarah asks Todd why he's bothered about taking her money. He tells her if she's going to pay the rent she might as well live there. Sarah agrees and says she'll speak to her mum.

Mick goes to the bar of the Rovers to get the drinks for himself, Janice, Curly and Emma. Bev asks if he knew Les was out of prison. He tells her yes, he had heard, but he's not bothered, and takes the drinks to the table.

Les comes in and stands at the bar, stating loudly that there's a nasty smell in here. It's the bent coppers in the corner. He starts to shout at the four of them, how he's now confined to his house 12 hours a day because of them. Shelley reminds Les how he was only allowed back in if he didn't cause any trouble, and orders him out. He goes. Mick follows him out into the street, and warns him that if Les causes any more trouble he could get him put back inside, and not just for three months, next time it'll be 3 years. 'You know I can do it!' he tells Les. For once, Les is speechless.

Anne Logan

Curly catches a twittering Norris in his back yard with a cat, which seems to have adopted him. Les pokes his head over the fence and accuses Norris and Curly of spying on him, which they deny. Norris [as only he could] introduces the feline as Monty! Les complains about his tag. [I'm tempted to launch into German and wish Les 'Guten Tag' (good day) - but that would be too horrible a pun, even for me...]

Gail's house, and she spies the bump on Bethany's head. Gail quizzes Sarah about this, but Sarah tells her that it's nothing to worry about. Gail explodes in indignation - Bethany may have concussion.

In the Kabin, Sally is anxious to tell Rita every detail of how little Rosie is doing at Stage School, while Sophie is ignored. This gives Rita the chance to reminisce about her stage career. [Poor Sophie can only watch and listen; Sally's mind is on show-biz!]

In the cafŽ, Les tucks into a hearty breakfast, served by Roy. Les apologizes to Roy for always having thought him a pervert, but he now has a new-found respect for poor Roy after the alleged night of passion with Tracy. (Les' eloquence runs to: "Must be like driving a tractor again after a run in a Bentley".) Roy notices that Hayley is wearing lipstick this morning. Todd tries to speak to Sarah, who's working behind the counter, but Candice butts in; Sarah wants to move in with Todd, but they'll discuss this later. Fiz advises Les to keep his nose clean, but Les feels that he's being harassed by Mick and he can't wait to get Mick on his own for some retribution.

Emily comes out of her door, and finds Norris with Monty, who is enjoying a plate of fish, which Norris has filched from Emily's fridge. Norris claims that he has probably saved Emily from food poisoning, and a possible demise, but Emily states that she's more liable to die from exasperation than food poisoning.

Back at Gail's, where Sarah is put through the third degree about Bethany's bump on the head. Tempers flare. [Surprise, surprise!] One word leads to another and Sarah blurts out to her Mum that she's moving in with Todd. Gail is adamant that Sarah is doing no such thing, and insists to a petulant Sarah that she 'grow up'!

In the Rovers, Les outlines his plan to catch Mick off-guard to Fiz, who advises against such action. (Fiz points out to Les that he's a sort of 'Dracula in reverse'!) Les cheers up when he hears that Curly is having a couple of folk round this afternoon to view the house...

Katy makes a surprise call on Martin in his flat. After the obligatory snog, and Martin complaining about working nights, they head off for the boudoir, just as there is a chap at the door... [Katy is hustled from sight.] Well, it's not a chap, but Gail, hot-foot and hot tempered. After a reprise of the Sarah/Todd/Bethany scenario, Martin agrees to have a look at Bethany's bump, and leaves for Gail's. [Katy, of course, remains out of sight.]

In the Kabin, Norris, Rita and Roy exchange words of wisdom about cats. Roy thinks that the said feline should have been named Horatio. Rita feels a 'head coming on' and withdraws. [Wise old Rita!]

At Gail's, Martin pronounces Bethany to be fine, but Gail goes on and on about Sarah moving in to a grotty flat. [Where is the smiling Gail we used to see? My memory isn't that good.]

Hayley gets off the bus, laden with shopping, to be met by Fiz. Hayley would like a new hair style, and Candice is asked for her opinion. Candice offers to look at some magazines to find a style that'll go with a red anorak. [Miaow!]

A car draws up to Curly's house - prospective buyers. Before Curly has a chance of welcoming the couple, Les bursts out of his door, can of beer in hand and loud music playing on a portable stereo. He wants to welcome the prospective buyers, much to all-round embarrassment. Mick arrives, in uniform, and warns Les, but the damage has been done.

Martin gets back to his flat, after his mission of mercy, just as Katy is leaving for work. He mentions some details of the Sarah/Todd liaison, and Katy reminds Martin that Sarah and she are the same age. She also reminds him that he'll get no sleep on Saturday, if she has her way.

The Webster's, and Sophie is still being ignored by her Mum, who wants her to wear a hand-me-down dress for a party she's going to. However, Kevin saves the day and takes Sophie shopping, giving Sally peace to help Rosie with her dancing. [A sight to behold - Sally and Rosie dancing!!] Rosie has also decided that her name isn't quite good enough, so from now on she will be known as Rozi.

Les comes out of his door to wave good-bye to Curly's house viewers. [I don't think they've decided to buy the house, somehow!]

In the cafŽ, Hayley appears in her new look, which Roy thinks he likes. She isn't sure, but Roy tears up the receipts so she can't return the items.

A tearful Sarah bursts in to Martin's flat, distraught at what 'that cow' [Mummy!] has said to her. Gail follows almost immediately, and Martin tries to broker peace between them. Gail tells Martin that he has no idea about what living with a sixteen-year-old is like. [Martin looks askance, as well he might!] A compromise is reached - Gail will allow Sarah to spend one night, and one night only, chez Todd, and Martin gets a hug from yet another teenager today.

The Rovers, and Les taunts off-duty Mick about his tag and the curfew he has to follow. Les grins. Mick doesn't.

Sarah and Bethany get to Todd's flat, and she tells Todd about her Mum's 'one-night' rule, as well as about all the screaming she had to endure. Todd wonders what Sarah is going to do. Sarah says that she's here to stay, for good.

Todd and Sarah are playing happy families in Todd's flat, and there's a pressing need for an iron. Never mind, she'll borrow one from Mummy. [Won't she be pleased?] Sarah tries to imagine how their lives will be in ten years' time - happily married, kids and long holidays in Greece. Mummy will look back then, and see how wrong she was...

Les is lounging, beer in hand, on a deck chair outside, as Curly exits his house; no viewers today, he tells a grinning Les. The effervescent Fiz passes and reminds Les that he owes her and Kirk £100. Les' grin wanes. Curly meets Norris and mentions to him that maybe justice will prevail for Les, perhaps by a circuitous route. Monty again appears, and Norris promises him pork for dinner. [Monty is a stray cat, remember?]

Gail's house, and she tells her Mum that she'll speak to Sarah later, after she's come home. [She's going to borrow the iron, Gail!] Martin, Gail thinks, has been too lenient with Sarah.

In the Kabin, Sally is introduced to Nicole, who runs the Stage School, by Rita. Nicole is going round the neighbourhood putting posters up advertising the Open Night. Emily promises to attend. [Oh, bad timing, Emily!]

Chez Grimshaw, and Tony and his son, Jason, are lolling about watching a holiday programme on TV. Wow - wouldn't they like to be in the Caribbean: a mere £840. [I suspect Eileen would like to see them both depart for foreign shores, near or far!] Todd arrives and cadges £5 from his poor [literally] Mum; he has to buy an iron. No money changes hands.

Norris is still annoying Emily [and millions of others] by going on and on about Monty, for whom a collar has been bought. Emily reminds Norris that she's watching Bethany later, so it [the cat] had best not enter the house. [Personally, I'd keep Monty and throw Norris out...] Poor Norris has been scratched by Monty, and Emily shows scant concern.

The guys at the garage take a tea break, and Kevin states categorically that he'll not be going to the Stage School Open Night to see 'Rozi'. [Sally will be pleased at this news.]

Audrey meets Fiz, who's talking to a still-lounging, still-boozing, Les. Audrey inquires about her rent, but Fiz explains that she's owed money by Les, who has lost his usual bonhomie, for the moment at least. Norris passes, nursing his scratched hand, and Fiz warns him about all sorts of dire consequences after a scratch by a feline friend.

Chez Gail, and Todd is helping Sarah gather up all her worldly goods. Audrey arrives, and Todd makes himself scarce upstairs. Audrey is pleased to see that Sarah has come home [Sarah doesn't spoil her Gran's pleasure by revealing the truth, of course] and Audrey asks Sarah to see things from Gail's point of view; Sarah agrees to talk to her Mum. After Audrey leaves, the young lovers head back to Todd's flat, laden with bags of clothes.

In the Rovers, Fred recalls his younger days as a tap dancer, and agrees to put a poster up about the Open Night. [Fred claims he was known as Fred Astaire in his younger days - Astaire? As if!] Ashley promises to lend Sally his camcorder, and Sally is delighted. [Sally still doesn't know that Kevin won't be there at the Open Night to see their precocious brat, Rozi.] Gail complains that Sarah is acting like a spoiled teenager. [She IS a spoiled teenager.] Curly is in cahoots with his old adversary, Councilor Naismith, and they have a common interest, for once: how to get rid of Les from the street.

Sally calls in at Streetcars to deliver a poster about you-know-what. Eileen looks back on what might have been - the A-level results are out today - just as the phone rings. It's a private call from a firm to whom she owes money, but she swears the cheque is in the post. [Eileen has too much week at the end of her pay these days.]

Tommy sees Martin in the street, and warns him that Sarah would appear to be moving in with Todd, going by the amount of luggage they've been shifting. Martin doesn't look too happy at this latest turn of events. [Did he wonder if Tommy wanted to speak to him about some other matter...?]

The Websters', and Kevin arrives home from a hard day's toil to find Sally, Nicole, Rita and Rozi practicing the shimmy. [That's what they said it was, but the dancing wasn't exactly Busby Berkeley.] Kevin complains to Sally that he doesn't want to come home to a version of Opportunity Knocks, and that he expects his tea on the table, immediately, if not before. The visitors leave.

Martin arrives at Gail's to tell her the glad tidings - Sarah has decamped to Todd's flat, with Bethany. Gail explodes in fury, and blames Martin for the situation.

In the Rovers, Janice tells Fiz that she wants to see the back of Les, for good. [Fiz supports Les; good girl!] The unholy trio of Eileen, Tony and Jason sit dolefully together. All Eileen wants at the moment is a drink, but Tony and Jason are a bit short of cash at the moment. [So is Eileen, with parasites all round.]

Norris limps home after a tetanus jab at the hospital. Gail is hot-footing it to Todd's flat to bring her daughter to heel, and Mick just happens to be passing. She asks Mick if it's legal for a sixteen-year-old to leave home. Mick concedes that, while it's not legal, there's nothing much the police could do. Gail thanks him for his advice and marches on, with Martin panting to keep up. Gail stops, tells him he's useless, and he departs for home.

Todd's flat, and Gail storms in, demanding that Sarah pack up her belongings and come home. A slanging match ensues, with a very high decibel count. [Todd holds little Bethany in his arms as the two warring factions hurl verbal abuse at each other.]

Back in the Rovers, and Curly tries to persuade Janice to write to the council, simply stating that she now no longer lives with Les. Janice is reluctant to put pen to paper, but Curly is very persuasive...

Back at Todd's, and the war intensifies, with Sarah accusing her Mum of driving everyone away. David will be next. Sarah will NEVER come home again. Gail, the battle lost, leaves the flat and wanders home, alone.

Sunday's episode begins with Sarah and Todd at breakfast Sarah is not hungry as she is upset following the bust-up with Gail and Todd tries to console her.

Norris is feeding Monty (the cat that has adopted him) in the backyard much to Emily's annoyance - Monty has left a little present upstairs and Emily wants Norris to stop Monty going into the house. Curly says hello as he comes out from his backyard carrying Ben who is all dressed up as Emma is expected back today. All the while Les is giving him black looks from his bedroom window.

Audrey is at Gail's she suggests that Gail goes to see Sarah and Bethany - Audrey is accused of not listening to what Gail is saying - Sarah doesn't want her there! Audrey suggests she goes but Gail doesn't want her to go either. Martin them comes in to referee between Gail and Audrey, a united front is what Gail wants to show but it looks as if Audrey and Martin are siding with Sarah and Todd. Let them sort it out by themselves!

In the street Mick and Janice see Les coming out of his house Les does a bit of "verballing" at Mick, who wants Janice to sign statement saying that Les lives in the house by himself but Janice is still reluctant.

Katy then dashes out of her house to catch up with Martin to confirm their date for that evening, Kevin catches a bit of their conversation and gives Martin a funny look! As Kevin and Katy move off Sarah speaks to Martin about the dispute with Gail and says she just wants to be left alone.

At streetcars Eileen is checking her stars Steve comes in, he has had a phone call from the loan company (he acted as referee for Eileen) to say that Eileen was not up to date with the payments £225 owing.

Emma returns home, Curly tells her about the plan to get Les evicted - Emma is concerned that Curly is letting his principles slip! Seems he is putting family first now.

At Sally's house - bad news for Sophie she cannot go to party as chicken pox has cancelled the do - now she has to go to Rosie's (or is it Rozi?) debut - here she is not keen (who can blame her?). Sally wants everyone to go as a big happy family but Kevin as well as Sophie isn't keen. The only chance now is a babysitter, Kevin makes a despairing effort to babysit (and get out of going) but Sally pooh-poohs that so a babysitter will have to be found and quickly.

At Gail's Martin is telling her that Sarah thinks she is the one with the problem, a tornado would be easier to turn in its course than to get Gail to change her mind.

Les meanwhile is building up a nice smoky bonfire, Fiz has come to see Les about the money owed but Les pleads poverty, Fiz goes as Emma and Curly erupt from next door to see what is burning. Curly is getting near the end of his patience and gives Les a fairly direct warning.

Kevin sees Tommy in the street and asks him if he can babysit Sophie, Tommy is busy though, but he volunteers Katy (not knowing of course of her date with Martin!)

Emma and Curly are coming out of their house taking Ben out, Curly is still het after his confrontation with Les about the bonfire.

Sarah and Todd are ordering a pizza - where do they get the money from? When there is a knock at the door Sarah thinks it is Candice but it is Gail trying a softer approach. Todd goes off to make tea leaving Gail and Sarah to talk. Gail says she is concerned about Bethany's welfare and also makes it clear that David is missing her. Oh dear - no tea only milk!

At the Nelsons Tommy is watching as Katy is painting toe-nails and "stinking the place out" with polish Kevin then turns up with Sophie and Katy not surprisingly is none to pleased to have her night of passion with Martin spoiled.

In the Rovers Norris is making his feelings known to Emily and her lack of compassion with regard to Monty. Also at the bar Fiz sees Les who is skint and mentions this to Audrey who in turn reminds Fiz that the rent still has to be paid.

Les is joined by Fiz who is still trying to get his job with streetcars back but Steve is having none of it. Fiz tries to cheer Les up but that fails as Mick and Janice walk in. Janice wants to drink somewhere else but Mick is staying his ground, Shelley asks Kieran to keep an eye on Les.

Meanwhile, Sarah and Todd are finishing off their pizza when there is another knock on the door, perhaps it is Candice this time? No - its Katy with Sophie in tow so that she can go off to her date with Martin, providing Sarah and Todd agree and Sophie doesn't tell where she ended up. Katy says she is meeting mates.

At Eileen's Tony wonders what Eileen has got for dinner and is not happy on being told nothing, Tony is made aware that Eileen has got money flow problems and Tony promises to get hold of some cash he had kept in reserve, hoping now to get some chips the answer is still "NO".

Katy turns up at Martin's, soft lights, music, looks like the promised night of passion, or at least till 10pm when she has to collect Sophie.

Back in the Rovers Fiz is trying to get Les to be quiet - not an easy task - as Curly, Mick and Janice are there. Mick suggests a quiet man to man word, Les falls for this, which seems to be a ruse by Mick to get Les to lose his temper and start a fight with him so that he will end up behind bars, Kieran is nearby though and gets Les out before a fight starts. Mick then apologies to Janice for the argument with Les but Janice says she is sorry for not signing the statement and she will do so now.

Curly is walking down the street, carrying Ben and pushing the pushchair. He sees Emily sweeping the pavement and comments that if all the neighbours were like her he'd have sold his house ages ago. Emily asks if Les has been putting buyers off. Norris appears, looking for Monty, the stray cat he's been feeding. Emily says she hopes Curly sells his house soon, but that's not because she wants him to go. Janice comes along and asks if she can have a word with Curly in private. Curly invites her into his house.

Sally and Kevin are at the breakfast table discussing how Todd and Sarah are managing in that flat. Kevin thinks it must be a right tip up there. Sophie pipes up that it isn't, it's nice! Sally and Kevin immediately ask how she would know and she tells them Katy took her there when she was babysitting because she had to go out. Kevin is cross that Katy left Sophie with someone else when he was paying her to look after his daughter.

Back at Curly's house Janice tells Curly that she just can't get Les evicted. He was once her husband and if he was thrown out of his house where would he go? He's probably end up in a cardboard box.

Out in the street Norris is still calling for Monty. Les is standing, lounging against the wall with a bottle in his hand, and sees Janice coming out of Curly's. He states that what they've both got is common is that they both have bent coppers! Les wants justice and he tells Janice that one of these days he's coming for Mick. Janice turns right round and knocks on Curly's door, she's changed her mind. 'Are you sure?' asks Curly, 'Positive!' states Janice.

Martin is in Todd and Sarah's flat. Sarah tells him to say whatever it is that her mum has sent him to say - that they're too young, her mum wants to spoil everything. Martin asks if they can't wait a year or two. Sarah asks what for? She's already had a baby, and she's in a relationship. Martin admits he doesn't know.

Janice and Mick are in the Rovers, Mick is tired because he's been on nights. Eileen and Tony come in, and Eileen pays for their drinks. Les comes in and Mick groans, and says that in an hour Les will be breaking his curfew, it will be his duty as a serving policeman to report him, if he's still there.

At Ken and Deirdre's house, Deirdre is on the phone to Tracy who is asking if she can come home. Ken says it's best if she stays in London. Deirdre agrees, telling her that her dad is still upset and so is she. However, Tracey is outside in Coronation Street, phoning on her mobile phone. She begs Deirdre to talk to Ken now and phone her back.

Kevin and Martin walk into the pub, Kevin is moaning about Katy taking money for babysitting Sophie and leaving her with Todd and Sarah. Martin sticks up for Katy, which Kevin is somewhat puzzled by.

Janice sees Tracey in the pub and asks if she's back or just passing through. Mick tells Janice he's tired and is going to go home and sleep, but he'll have a word with his favourite ex-con first! Mick tells Les it's his lucky night, he might be too drunk and too daft to go home when he should, but he's going home himself now and won't be there to see Les break his curfew - but another time........! Les orders a large scotch, and so Ciaran tries to tell him he thinks he's had enough, but Les says he needs a scotch, he's got business to see to with him that's just gone out.

Deirdre and Ken are talking at home. Deirdre asks if Ken is saying he never wants to see Tracey again. Ken says he just wants her to apologize first before she can come home, but it doesn't look likely that she ever will. Deirdre tells him she's promised to ring Tracey back.

Martin and Kevin come out of the pub and go their separate ways. Norris is in the street, still calling Monty. Katy comes up to Martin, who asks what she thought she was doing, leaving Sophie last night. It's making Martin feel like this is some underhand, sleazy thing. (Actually Martin, it is!) Kevin, across the street at his own front door sees the two of them talking and starts to put two and two together.

Tracey walks into the pub and is welcomed by Emily. Todd comes in and asks Eileen if she can lend him some money. (What is that boy doing with the money from two jobs?) Eileen refuses, she can't lend him any, but asks what he's going to do. He tells her he'll think of something.

Tracey's mobile rings, Deirdre tells her she just doesn't realize how much she upset them. Tracey says she's sorry, but Deirdre's not sure she means it. Ken takes the phone and asks if she will now treat people with respect. Tracey tells him to forget it and hangs up.

At the Webster's house, Kevin is telling Sally about Martin's attitude and him sticking up for Katy, and then seeing them in the street talking together. Sally asks what he's saying, he's not suggesting something's going on? Katy is just a schoolgirl and Martin's his best friend. Kevin just thinks it's peculiar.

Todd and Sarah are curled up on the sofa, and Todd is worrying about money, he doesn't want to live off Sarah's savings and Beth's allowance, he is supposed to be providing. Sarah asks if he's hungry but he says he isn't. She's going to get chips and will get him some anyway. She tells him they'll be ok, and not to worry.

Les walks into Curly's house through the back door. Curly is shocked and tells Les to get out. Les asks if he's cooking something up with Janice, but there's no need, they'll put him back inside after what he's going to do. Curly asks what is he going to do? Les tells him that it's MIck, the one who gave him a working over and then put him in jail for it. Where's the justice in that? Les is going to get his own justice. Les walks out, despite Curly's calls for him to wait.

In the Rover's Norris, Emily and Rita are pondering over Monty's whereabouts. Emily and Rita are making light of it all, but Norris is worried. Rita tells him she'll put a notice up in the morning.

Janice approaches Tracey, obviously from the look on Tracey's face her mum and dad are not welcoming her with open arms. Tracey isn't telling what she's going to do next.

Outside the taxi office Les sees Patrick working on a car. When Patrick's back is turned Les takes a crowbar from among the tools in the open boot of the car.

Tracey lets herself into her mum and dad's. Is it all right if she stops the night? Well it'll just have to be because she's got nowhere else to go, so she'll just take her stuff upstairs. Ken and Deirdre are speechless.

Les is breaking into the building where Mick and Janice's flat is, using the crowbar. Mick hears a noise and opens his front door.

Curly rushes into the pub and tells Rita and Emily it's an emergency. Norris asks if it's about Monty. Curly needs a babysitter quickly, he's afraid Les is going to do something stupid.

At Mick's flat, Les suddenly appears armed with the crowbar. 'This is it copper, me and you,' he tells him, 'It's payback time!'

It starts of with Les and Mick arguing. Curly and Janice rush to Janice and find that the door has been broken. Mick tells Les that if he attacks him with the crow bar he will get done for GBH. Mick doesn't mind fighting but make it a fair fight no weapons. Les refuses. Curly walks in and Mick elbows him in the face and knocks him to the floor. Les orders Janice and Curly to move to the window. Curly's glasses drop to the floor and Les stands on them.

Ken questions Deirdre about Tracey, are they going to just let her come back with no apology. Ken wants to chuck her out, but Deirdre says at least they can keep an eye on her when she there, just like at the wedding Ken points out.

Back at Janice's, Les smashes some ornaments. Curly tells Les that he's on a hiding to nothing. Mick advised Les that he's already broken his curfew, its 8.00. Les has got nothing to loose then. Les order Janice and Curly to leave but they refuse. Les claims it 'One for all and all of one' is their motto.

Martin turns up Kevin's and Sally's. Martin tells them that Katy only left Sophie for 1/2 hr as she had left her purse round her friends house. Sally says don't worry they wont be asking her again. Sally put the video of Rozie on for Martin to watch. Kevin is not impressed and turns the video off. Martin leaves but Kevin wants a word and follows him out. They go over to the garage. Kevin has been thinking, is there something going on with him and Katy. Martin is relieved to be able to say Yes.

Janice picks up some of the broken ornaments. Les tells Curly he is as bent as Mick, Curly says he is if that mean trying to get him out of his house. Curly tells Les that he is not the only one who has lost out, he has lost his house, and nearly lost his wife. Curly give Les a ear bashing (he's a winger!!! and winds people up the wrong way). Curly tells Les that he could be carried out of the flat in a box and that would be Mick having another commendation to go with the other 2. Janice looks shocked.

Ken calls Tracey down from upstairs. Tracey never thinks about the consequences of her actions. Tracey says that if she could turn back time she would and she's sorry.

Back at Les's, Janice asks Curly what side he is on after slagging off Mick, Curly was never a copper hater. Les doesn't want Janice anymore and hasn't done since she has been with Mick. Les accuses Janice of always standing by Mick whatever and would even lie for him, Janice is as bad as Mick. Janice doesn't lie for anyone. Curly says she doesn't have to when Mick does all the lying for her. Janice looks confused. Les looks shocked that Janice does not know about all the lies. Mick looses it and lashes out Les, hitting and kicking him knocking him to the floor. Curly pulls Mick off Les and asks if that is what happened before. Les says Yes, Janice looks horrified.

At the garage, Martin and Kev argue about the situation with Katy. Kevin points out that Katy is still a kid and acts like it. Martin reckons she acts older that some women of his age. Katy took money for something she didn't do, Martin gives Kevin the money back. Kevin tells him that he has responsibilities and a reputation to keep, people will look at him in a different way. Parents go to Martin with their kids. Was Kevin implying the Martin was a Pedophile. Martin is horrified, Katy is 16. Was that why Kevin turned the video off? Martin looses his temper and punches a car. It was either the car or Kevin's face!!!!

Les apologies to Janice for the situation. Mick and Les start arguing again, Curly steps in between them. Curly wants this settled here and now within the 4 walls. Mick reckons his duty is to report Les as he has broken his curfew, Curly says that Les is under police surveillance and he's with Mick, and Mick can back him up. Les interrupts but Curly tells him to shut up, he needs to be on the right side of Curly at the moment as Curly can put him right back into prison and lose him his house. Mick asks Curly would he send a guilty man back on the streets and Curly would. Curly gives Mick to phone to ring the police. He doesn't.

Kevin is in an awkward position, he works with Tommy. Martin reckons that Tommy is very protective over Katy. Tyrone is a nervous wreck after he took a beating from Tommy. Martin is sorry. Martin suggests that the conversation never happened. Martin reminds Kevin that its none of Kevin's business what happens.

Emily goes to see Tracey, Deirdre is upstairs and Ken is out shopping. Tracey hasn't gone through with the abortion but doesn't want to be lumbered with a baby, he could grow up like her.

Back at Janice's, Les tells Janice he will pay for the damage to the door and leaves. Curly tells Mick that he did the right thing not informing the police about Les and leaves. Mick says he knows a locksmith that can repair the door but Janice says she will look in the Paper. Janice tells Mick to go to work as he doesn't want to be late, Janice is fuming. Mick has lied to her and has made her feel stupid. Mick apologies. Janice tells Mick to get to work, he'll take the night off to sort things out but she wants to be left alone. Janice will phone him. Mick leaves and Janice cries.

Ken goes round to see Roy. Hayley is out shopping. Roy hopes to that the gossip will stop soon. Ken tells him that Tracey is back. Roy is not happy and what will Hayley say?

Les apologies to Les for breaking his glasses. Les says its not over, Mick has ruined his life. Curly tells him just to get on with it and get on with it. Curly has to, but Les doesn't think he can. Curly tells him that if he doesn't think he can then do what he is doing. Pack up and leave.

Jayne Barber

It's the dreaded day [for some] of the GCSE results, and Katy rips open her envelope while Angie and Tommy look on. Wow! Katy has managed to pass all nine subjects she sat: seven As and two Bs. [Excellent results!] Hugs from a proud Mum and Dad. The postman delivers another brown envelope to Gail's house. [Of course, Sarah isn't in - she's at Todd's.] It's also the morning after the night before, and Les meets up with Curly to apologize for his crowbar-wielding visit to Mick and Janice's. Curly was right - the matter has to end there.

Mick arrives home after his night shift, to find Janice trying to piece together a broken vase. [If only their lives could be pieced together as easily.] Janice has been betrayed by Mick, who has told her [and the court] a pack of lies about the incident with Les. Mick explains that he could still have Les put back in jail, since he broke his curfew, but Janice thinks that Les has suffered enough; if Mick takes the matter further, she will have to tell the police the truth. Mick remains silent.

In the cafŽ, Hayley tells Roy that things will be alright - they have what Tracy doesn't have. They have each other. [Roy doesn't seem to share her optimism.]

Gail arrives at Todd's flat with the brown envelope for Sarah. She has only managed to pass five out of the seven exams she sat, and the grades are, well, not very brilliant - three Bs and two Cs. Gail thinks out loud that, if she had spent more time revising instead of doing other things, she might have done better, while Todd is enthusiastic about Sarah's 'success', so much so that he'll cook her a special meal tonight. [Sarah is visibly shaken by her results, every bit as disappointed as her Mum.]

Emily calls to see Tracy, mainly to plead with Tracy not to go ahead with the planned abortion. [No one else knows that she's pregnant, as yet...] Emily explains that her own Mum died when she was eleven, and she was left to care for the family by an ungrateful father. Tracy, Emily says, used to be such a darling little girl: what happened to make her so bitter and vindictive? Tracy lays the blame on her parents' messy divorce, but Emily doesn't accept that and goes on to wonder whether Tracy would be a fit mother of the child. 'We're all sinners!' Emily concludes, and exits, sadly, leaving Tracy to ponder what she's just heard...

Emily meets a doleful Curly in the street and asks him about the bruising on his face. Curly invites her inside. Martin catches up with Katy to find out about her results. At first, Katy pretends that she hasn't done well, and Martin's face drops. However, she eventually gives him the good tidings and they hug each other, while Kevin glowers at them from the garage. Katy suggests to Martin that they go back to his flat and she'll demonstrate why she got an A in Biology, but Martin resists and tells Katy that Kevin knows their secret. Katy thinks they should go and face Kevin together, now.

Chez Curly, a shocked Emily hears the truth about Emma and Mick's perjury in court, and also that Curly was complicit in all of it. [Curly makes no excuses for his part in the frame-up, but Emily thinks that he did the right thing for his family.]

Martin and Katy arrive at the garage to speak to Kevin, who scoffs at Martin when he claims he and Katy love each other; she may very well be above the age of consent, but she's just a kid. Katy pleads with Kevin not to tell her Dad, but Kevin is making no such promises.

Emily again calls to see Tracy, who is in no mood for another lecture. Emily tries another tack - she reminds Tracy of how Deirdre worried about her when she was ill, when she was in London and so on - please will she tell her Mum? Tracy remains adamant that Emily will not talk her out of the termination.

Emma arrives home to a quiet and bruised Curly, but just before he reveals what happened, someone knocks at their door, and a furious Janice bursts in, and apprises a taken-aback Emma with last night's events, and all the lies which Emma and Mick concocted to get Les into jail. Janice verbally lays into Emma, who's unable to get a word in, and Janice leaves, slamming the door behind her. 'Welcome home!' adds Curly.

Hayley rushes into the cafŽ and drags a rather reluctant Roy off with her to see Tracy.

Back at the Watts', Emma picks up the phone to speak to her fellow copper, Mick, so that they can 'take some action', but it's Curly's turn to lay down the law: he has dealt with the situation, and that's the end of it! [Good on ya, Curly!!]

Little Bethany plays happily in Todd's flat while he busies himself preparing the 'celebration' meal he promised Sarah. Bethany is pushing her toy pram against the skirting board and, suddenly, there's a flash and a loud bang, and wee Bethany falls to the floor, apparently unconscious. Todd bends over the little girl, who remains motionless.

Tracy answers the door, to be met with Roy and an excited and blazing Hayley, who goes on the immediate offensive with the woman who tried to wreck her marriage. Various insults are traded - evil, freak, heartless just for starters - and Tracy accuses Hayley of not being a true woman, for which she receives a hearty slap in the face from Hayley. Only then does Roy intervene to break up this 'exchange of views' and Hayley and Roy start to leave, but are halted in their tracks by Tracy, who taunts them both with her 'secret' - she's pregnant, with Roy's child.

Bethany is unconscious on the floor of the flat, and Todd is in a panic, he phones 999 for an ambulance.................

Hayley and Roy are returning from Tracey's, Hayley is convinced it cant be Roy's baby, but Roy just doesn't say anything..he hasn't a clue either way......Todd calls from the window for Roy to help Bethany....Roy sends Hayley to get Sarah from the cafe..........

Sarah arrives, but Roy has brought Bethany around, and he tells them not to panic, just to watch her head because she may be concussed. Todd can't thank Roy enough. The ambulance arrives, and takes them to the hospital.

Over at Gail's, she is telling her mum how she is disappointed that Sarah only got 5 O levels.............(that's 5 more than me then) she's a 16 year old unmarried mother................Gail is so worried.

Roy goes to tell Gail about the accident and she rushes to the hospital, Hayley turfs everyone out of the cafe.....she needs to talk. Roy is chuntering on about tuna sarnies to Hayley...........he doesn't know what to say to her................ But he eventually admits that if Tracey IS pregnant, then it seems it must be his.

At the hospital, Martin takes a call...............its Katy trying out her new mobile phone that her mum and dad have bought her for getting 9 O levels.......the ambulance man comes in and tells him Bethany is here, and he hangs up the phone and rushes off, Katy looks stunned at being hung up on.

Tommy comes in home just as she hangs up....he calls upstairs to her mum, and they both tease her about the phone call, presuming its Tyrone. she gets the hump and walks off.

Back at the cafe..........Hayley wants to talk this thing about Tracey through..................but Roy is still determined to make her a tuna sarnie.............does she want salad cream or mayo??, or maybe a jacket potato?? Roy wants to discuss it later, but Hayley says this is important and she will take the afternoon off work if necessary, she wants to know if there is any chance that Tracey could be having his baby??? she wants to know what he is thinking.......did she have sex with him??? he reckons that if she is pregnant, then he thinks he must have done, but he can't remember!!!! But if the baby is his, then he will have to provide for it and stand by it, but what he wants to know is.............if he has done this terrible thing, will Hayley be able to stand by him????

They both sit at a table in the cafe..............Roy tells Hayley he has never lied to her................Hayley tells him that if he was too drunk to remember ..........then he must have been too drunk to do anything!! she doesn't believe it is in his nature to do that........Roy tells her that Ken Barlow said the same thing. He says he can get carried away..............remember the other week when they had a cuddle on the couch, and he knocked over the scrabble board, before they had finished their game....................wow!! down tiger!!! He admits to having carnal thoughts. he says he is human and has primitive urges its in all of us, to preserve the species..............animal instinct. All he knows is, he got drunk and woke up naked next to a beautiful young woman. (oh heck Roy, wrong thing to say) Hayley is not happy....she's not beautiful, she's not young, and she's not a "real" woman...he tells her she IS beautiful to him, and the only woman he wants, but its too late.......he's opened his gob and put his size 9's right in!!! Hayley screams at him "you want that baby!!!!!"....she slings all the things off the table and screams at him again and again. she feels betrayed, after all she's been through, Roy just keeps shouting "I'm sorry" Hayley storms upstairs.

Katy goes to the garage to see Kevin..............she thanks him for not telling her dad, but Kev reckons he hasn't told him yet! He tells her to finish with Martin, but she just gets annoyed and he points out that reaction is that of a teenage schoolgirl, and need he say more?

Roy goes up to the flat, Hayley is weeping on the sofa...........he tells her he has cleared the mess up and thought he would give her some time to herself. she's been thinking..............Roy won't even get behind the wheel of a moving car without reading the manual first........so he must have done this on purpose..........he knows Hayley can't have a child, so he saw this as his last chance to have a child. crikey she has had a big change of heart there!!! she asks did he do it on purpose.............he swears on Bethany's life that he can't remember.............she thinks he did it cos he wants a child, and then felt so guilty, that he blocked it from his mind. Hayley is leaving!!....she cant stay and watch another woman bring up his kid. . she's going!!!

Gail goes to the hospital to see Bethany............she's fine, they are keeping her in overnight. Gail starts on Sarah again but Martin says there are sick people so she says she will see Sarah outside!!!!

Hayley is packing, Roy asks her to stay...........she says she will never find another man like him, so stay!!!!!!!!!

At the hospital, Gail demands Sarah goes home with her....she insists..............but Sarah's having none of it..........she tells her to go home..........Gail says she will not stand by and watch Bethany be brought up in that poky little death trap...............Sarah goes back to the ward and Martin hugs Gail, just as Katy walks up................Gail and her mother leave, Katy and Martin chat They arrange to meet at break time

Hayley is ready to go. she hands Roy her keys...Roy hugs her, but she tearfully leaves.............

Gail is looking through the telephone book..............she lifts the phone and phones social services, to report that Bethany Platt isn't being looked after properly.

Hayley wipes her tears as she walks away, Roy watches from the window

Sue Nicholson

We open in Roy and Hayley's flat and Roy is asleep on the sofa. There is the sound of knocking on the door. Roy wakes up, is that Hayley? Sadly no, it's Vera, telling Roy it's busy downstairs and there's no change in the till. He tells her to put up a notice saying 'Correct change only'.

Over at the Harris's Tommy is grumbling about the fact that Ange and Hayley were up all night talking, so there can't be much left to say. Ange tells him she couldn't get Hayley to open up. Tommy remarks that it was a waste of time then, and Craig sacrificed his bed (despite him being away and not needing it!) and he hopes she changes the sheets! Angela tells him Hayley is in bits. Hayley comes down then, apologizing for it being 11 o'clock. Tommy, still grumbling about not being able to spend time with his family on a bank holiday, pick up his fishing rod and goes off to the reservoir. Hayley feels awful about it, but Ange just offers her breakfast.

Roy is knocking on Tracy's door, and tells her he wants to speak to her. She doesn't want to speak to him, but he puts his foot in the door. So they walk together down the road, although Tracy says she doesn't want to be seen with him. Roy tells her he's lost everything because of what's happened, his other half, his soul mate, and his reputation which means a great deal to him. He tells her he was tempted to jump ship except for one thing, he wants to be there for the child, financially, emotionally, spiritually. Tracy tells him to forget it, she doesn't want to unleash some freak of his on society, and she's getting rid of it asap, so, if his ship's on the rocks - jump!

At the hospital Todd is sitting drawing with Bethany. Sarah comes in, very pleased, Bethany is gong to be discharged. They just have to keep a close eye on her, the hospital have said, they don't know it's daft Uncle Jason's fault! (Remember? His dad Tony wired the flat up to get the electricity from the bookie's below!) In comes the social worker from the children's ward. She asks if they've had their wiring checked. They admit they haven't yet, they've been too busy at the hospital, but will get it done first thing tomorrow. She social worker asks if they'll be in tomorrow because another social worker will be calling on them.

At Gail's house, Audrey sits at the table while Gail is on the phone to the hospital sister. It's good news, Bethany is coming home. Gail gets off the phone and comments to Audrey, 'Home to a death trap!' Audrey protests that it was an accident. Gail queries whether Bethany every played with live wires in her house, and Audrey retorts, 'No, just a murderer!' Gail is hurt, she can see who's side Audrey is on. Gail wouldn't be surprised if Sarah and Todd got a visit from social services! (I wonder why!)

Ciaran is in the cafe, asking Peter for the correct change for a cup of tea when Roy walks in. He tells his customers to go to Starbucks, KFC or MacDonald's - to go elsewhere. If it's not convenient, ditch it! Cull it! Flush it out! Peter tells him not to get shirty, Vera asks what he's doing, she's given up her bank holiday to come in and work. Roy gives her money, double time! More money, holiday pay! He hustles her out telling her to put her feet up with a skinny latte.

Deirdre and Ken are getting dressed up to go out and watch an outdoor performance of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. Tracy watches with a critical eye, telling Deirdre that her blue eyeshadow was fine - in 1978. Ken asks if she's had broken glass for breakfast, she's so surly. Tracey tells him she's not deaf, he tells her she never curbs her opinions, why should he curb his? She always has to crush anything someone else might care about.

Over at the Harris's Ange asks why Hayley can't put it all behind her, it's a bit late in the day to walk out. Hayley confesses that this isn't going away, Tracy is pregnant and Roy wants it, the one thing she can't give him. She tells Angela she's going, she's not going to hang around for Tracy Preston to rub her nose in it.

Over at Lucy's flat, Peter has been babysitting. Lucy is home now, a little late. Peter tells her she could have phoned him and he wouldn't mind staying on, he had no plans anyway, so she can always do that in the future.

Roy is looking in an estate agent's window, then he pulls some keys out of his bag.

Hayley is telling Angela that she is going to Amsterdam, the only place she's ever felt accepted. Ange tells her she's accepted here. Hayley phones the airport to check on the flights.

Over in the pub, Ciaran makes Vera a sparkling cocktail. Peter comes in, back from babysitting, and Shelley asks loudly what other husbands wouldn't mind their wives working on a bank holiday. (We know why Peter doesn't mind though!) Gail collars Peter and has a go at him about the dodgy wiring in the flat causing little Bethany's accident. Peter has no idea what she's talking about, and wonders where he's going to get an electrician on a bank holiday. Tony (sitting a short distance away with Jason) seizes his opportunity, and offers his services, so that Peter won't find out about the flat being wired up to the bookie's.

Todd and Sarah arrive back in the street and get out of a taxi. Gail and Audrey are coming across the road towards them. Gail tells them that Peter's going to check the wiring and they are all welcome to come and spend a few days in safety at No. 8. Sarah refuses.

Roy arrives at the flat with two weeks wages for Sarah, and to say goodbye. They ask if he's going anywhere nice.(!) he says he'll find out when he gets there.

Out in the street Peter is pointing out the flat above the bookie's to Tony and Jason. Tony pretends he never knew there was a flat there. (Just where did he think Todd had gone then?)

Ken and Deirdre are walking back along the street from their evening out. They meet Emily and tell her where they've been. They end up talking about Tracy's sour disposition. Emily wonders if she may be depressed. Deirdre scoffs and asks what she's got to be depressed about.

Roy goes into the cafe and goes upstairs leaving a note on the door which says 'Warning, do not enter - please read the enclosed letter'.

Hayley is saying goodbye to Ange, who urges her to go and say goodbye to Roy, but Hayley declines.

In his flat, Roy is playing a record of classical music and taking tablets from a brown bottle with a glass of milk, one after another, after another.............

.... At Roy's and Hayley's flat, Hayley comes out of the bedroom, Roy was sleeping in the lounge. Hayley makes a cup of tea. Hayley heard Roy up in the night, he was clearing the glass from the cafe. Hayley enquires whether Roy is going to see Tracey. Roy breaks down, he's been stupid.

Eileen counting her pennies. Tony and Jason go to fix the electrics in Todd's flat. Jason says that once he gets a job he will help out but Eileen is paying for his car !!!!, and she needs money today.

At Roy and Hayley's, Hayley cant believe Roy has tried to take his own life. Roy is glad that Hayley is there (if only as a friend). Hayley tells him that he should 'Never Give In'. Roy says he has hurt the most precious thing - Hayley. Hayley thinks the baby is more important now though. Roy is going to get a glazier in to fix the door. Hayley thinks that Roy should go and see Tracey and offers to go with him.

Janice meets Les in the street, Les admits he was out of order and apologises. Janice didn't want him to be beaten up even thought sometimes he asks for it. Mick is across the road watching. Janice says goodbye to Les and sees Mick across the road. He advises Janice to stay away from Les. Janice says its only friendly chit=chat and that's something that we all need.

Tony and Jason turn up at Todd's to do the re-wiring, Sarah doesn't want them to do it, so wants professionals in as the Social Worker is coming round. Does she want the work done or not?????? Curly and Emma meet Emily in the street, Emily is going to miss them. The owners of the house they are going to buy up in Newcastle think that Curly and Emma are dragging their heels, they are not even though Curly is having second thoughts. Roy and Hayley knock on Tracey's door and Tracey answers it.

Social Services arrive to see Sarah, its only a routine visit, she's there to see the set-up of the place and to see about the Bethany's welfare, any child with the injuries that Bethany suffered would have a visit.

At Tracey's, Roy wants Tracey to keep the baby but Tracey doesn't want to. Hayley agrees with her but if there's a slightest chance that she wants it then please don't rush in and have the abortion. Roy offers to support her through the pregnancy and take full responsibility when the baby is born (He doesn't care how much or little Tracey will be involved). Tracey has already made an appointment at the clinic but Hayley tells her its not too late to cancel. Roy and Hayley leave at least he has tried!

Fiz and Angela see Hayley and Roy and are shocked to see Hayley. "Are Roy and Hayley back together" "No" just on speaking terms again.

Janice and Mick disagree about Les, the sooner Les is out of their lives the better Mick says, Janice says she can talk to whoever she likes. Mick would feel better if Janice would divorce him but Janice will do it in her own time. In the cabin, Norris shows Rita some flyers, he wants to put them in the papers but Rita refuses. he's becoming obsessed.

Back at Sarah's, the social worker quizzes Sarah about the family she has got around. She has her mum, dad and gran living nearby. The social worker says she is going to see her mum as a routine visit, but Sarah advises that Gail will just slag her off. The social worker will just listen. Peter is round at Lucy's seeing the baby (watching the racing, Lucy is out), Lucy comes in. Peter tells Lucy that it takes some sorting out to come round when it suits her, he's not complaining.

Emily goes round to see Tracey. she's heard that Roy and Hayley have offered to have the baby. Tracey is still determined to have it (the abortion), Roy gives Tracey the creeps. Emily tries to persuade Tracey that Roy and Hayley would make good parents and they are good people. Tracey is having none of it, she not a baby machine.

The Social Worker arrives at Gail's. Audrey is there. Gail asks the Social Worker whether she's been to Sarah's and whether she know that she was coming round to see Gail. Social Worker advises that she has told Sarah that it is a routine visit, the Social Worker is perfectly happy with what she has seen and there good be worse properties. Sarah is doing a good job!!!!

Peter is in the pub telling Ciaran about the baby. Mick walks in and stands by Les. Ciaran doesn't want any trouble, there wont be any trouble says Mick. Mick tells Les to divorce Janice, that's the only thing between them. Les tells him its got nothing to do with Mick and if he wants a divorce she should go round and see him.

At Roy's, Roy tells Hayley that he cant give up the chance chance of being a father (it is his only chance!). He tells Hayley that she is a loyal and faithful friend. Back at Gail's, Audrey asks Gail if she knew about the Social Worker coming round. Gail admits she did. Audrey is horrified but Gail says she would do it again if it would make a difference.

At Roy and Hayley's Tracey turns up. Tracey has been thinking, she would make a terrible mother and doesn't want to be tied down. Hayley understands but Roy thought he had explained he would do anything for the baby. Tracey points out that if she carries on the pregnancy she will have the inconvenience and financial loss and they should come to some arrangement now, one lump sum would be better. Tracey wants £20,000 to have the baby and Roy and Hayley have got till Friday to think about it, that's when she is having the abortion.

Breakfast at the Croppers', and the discussion revolves around Tracy and her alleged baby, and will she have the termination? Will she go off to the clinic without knowing whether or not the Croppers will cough up the cash demanded?

Chez Barlow, and Tracy is up and about early. [For her!] Deirdre worries out loud - her daughter has no job, no relationship and her life has no direction, although she's a 'bright, attractive and intelligent girl'. [Deirdre said that.] Well, this bright, attractive and intelligent girl has plans for today: is it a job, her Mum wonders? Sort of... it's short-term, but lucrative. [Mummy is very pleased, and smiles.]

At the Watts' home, Curly learns from a phone call that another possible buyer has called-off, having found another, more suitable, property. [Emma is busy hoovering the carpet in a rare reversal of the Watts' domestic roles.] Curly thinks that they should start looking for rented accommodation in Newcastle and move as soon as possible. Emma agrees, and even knows a WPC colleague in Newcastle who's renting out her flat there. Emma picks the phone up and rings her colleague...

The Croppers continue their, very amicable, discussion about what to do about the baby. If they can raise the required amount of cash (£20,000), Hayley will stay and help Roy bring up the child, although she makes it clear that things will never be the same as before. Roy reckons that the finance isn't impossible.

A taxi roars up and deposits Tyrone and Kirk, back from their holiday, just as Les steps out his door. Kirk expresses surprise that Les is a free man; did he escape, perhaps? Les explains that he's tagged, and shows Kirk the hardware. [No, Kirk, it doesn't deliver an electric shock if Les stays out late, but that's not such a bad idea.] Les informs the pair that today is his birthday, so a brew [cup of tea] is called for, with pints of a slightly stronger brew to come later.

In the Corner Shop, Dev is delighted to see Todd being so polite to customers and hands him his wages. Tracy meets up with Emily, who continues to be concerned about her God-daughter. Tracy tells Emily that things should be settled by the end of today, and asks that nothing more be said about the matter.

In the Salon, Candice is on the phone to her Mum, who seems to be having some problems with her latest boyfriend. [We haven't seen him yet - can't wait!] Candice tries to open her heart to Maria, but Maria doesn't want to know.

In the cafŽ, Kirk arrives and hands Les a birthday card. Moreover, he'll take Les out for a few pints this evening. [But before the 7pm curfew.] Tracy arrives, to talk to Roy and Hayley. Have they come to a decision? Roy immediately goes on the offensive with Tracy - he accuses her of 'shifting the moral imperative'. [Tracy doesn't appear to understand the word 'moral'.] Roy and Hayley at first refuse to give in to Tracy's financial demands, but Tracy makes it quite clear that she's not playing games; if they want the baby, they'll have to compensate her for her nine months of hard labour, and that the amount is non-negotiable. Moreover, she must have a down-payment of £5,000 by 3pm, otherwise the deal is off and the termination is on. Tracy flounces off - "bye bye, baby Cropper", she chirps. [Maybe she meant "buy buy, baby Cropper".]

Roy and Hayley get down to some serious financial sums. [They have only 2¸ hours before Tracy goes ahead with the abortion.] Both agree that it's the only thing to do - accede to Tracy's demands. Maybe then, they can be a real family...

The Rovers, and a grinning Ciaran offers Les a bag of nuts for his birthday. Kirk reckons they should have party hats. Fiz enters and berates Kirk for not phoning her. [Kirk had dropped his mobile in the swimming pool, or Niagara Falls, or somewhere, and I lost the will to continue pulmonary function at this juncture...]

Roy has done his sums, and he can just about raise the £5,000 'deposit' for Tracy's un-born child. He'll be short of a few hundred pounds, but Hayley will ask Mr Baldwin for an advance on her wages. Roy hurries to the Building Society, while Hayley trots off to see Mr Baldwin in the Rovers.

On a slightly more cheery note, Emma finds out that the flat she mentioned is still available, and they can move in immediately.

Just as Hayley gets to the Rovers, who is getting into a taxi to take her to the clinic, but the mother-to-be, who gently reminds Hayley that the clock is ticking towards 3pm. [Do not forsake me.... Sorry. Wrong time. I get confused on occasion.]

Roy concludes his financial transactions at the Building Society, his eyes constantly straying to the ubiquitous clock...

... just as Hayley bursts in to the Rovers, and pleads for a £500 advance on her wages from Mr Baldwin, who refuses her request. Hayley even asks Fiz is she has any savings, but no luck there either. Janice and Mick call in, to see (and hear) Les enjoying his birthday drinks with the lads, Kirk and Tyrone. Mick 'suggests' to Ciaran that, if the Rovers wants to continue having a sweet relationship with the local constabulary, Les should not be served any more drinks. Ciaran complies with the request.

Roy and Hayley have managed to scrape together just £4,860. Maybe they could haggle with Tracy?

Roy resorts to desperate measures to make up the short-fall. He asks Sarah to pay back the wages he paid her for holiday pay, and he cleans the till out. Todd enters the cafŽ, to the news that Sarah is giving up school to work full-time in the cafŽ. [Mummy will be pleased!]

Tracy waits at the clinic and watches the clock. The fateful hour comes, and she asks the nurse for a few moments to reflect on her decision. Right on cue, just before the minutes have ticked away, Roy and Hayley rush in, and Roy proffers the bag of cash which he and Hayley have raised - a total of £4,873.50 - for the down-payment. Tracy magnanimously accepts the bag of cash, and even is willing to write-off the deficit of £136.50 as a good-will gesture. [She's all heart, Tracy!] As for the final payment of £15,000, that will be 'on delivery', Hayley insists. Tracy adds, before she leaves the hapless Roy and Hayley, that, if it's twins, they'll have to enter into fresh dialogue about cash. The last word, at least for now, is Tracy's: "Congratulations, Roy. You're a Daddy!"

Deirdre and Ken are doing the washing up..........Deirdre asks "is madam going to help with the washing up?" but Ken tells her that Tracey is talking, it shows Tracey talking on the phone, making the final plans for her flight?????????? She looks at the money that Roy and Hayley gave her, and tucks it neatly away in her purse with that usual smarmy smile of hers (JR eat your heart out!!)

Over at the cafe flat, Roy and Hayley haven't had much sleep..............they have no guarantees in this deal at all.......they are worried about what's going to happen..............Tracey has their money, but they have no proof she is pregnant, and even if she is, they have no guarantee she won't go to a private clinic to abort the baby, now she has all that cash. They decide they need to talk to her about her plans. They think they have done the right thing???? But Roy couldn't have done this without Hayley Roy reaches out to touch Hayley but she turns away...........

Peter is coming out the Rovers on his way to see Lucy and the baby, but Lucy says she has to cancel cos she needs to take the baby into town to buy him some clothes, Peter says, but you cancelled last week, so they agree he can go round in the week for a full afternoon.

Les sees Tyrone coming from the shop with some sarnies and a bottle of red wine..............he teases him that wine is for women and poncey types...............Ty tells him he's not a poncey type, and he's going up the allotment to meet Maz........Les reckons its all plants and muck up there. Katy is coming out of the house with her dad..........she runs across the road and makes a big thing of throwing her arms around Tyrone and telling him she's missed him, Ty looks uncomfortable and asks her " haven't u told him yet???" Her dad is off to Sheffield for 2 weeks so Ty tells her she should tell him before he goes.....................just then, Ashley's nanny turns up and says that she didn't realise they 2 were an item??? Katy tells her yes they are but they like to keep it quiet. very romantic..............Katy tells Ty she missed him while he was away..............

Emily watches for Ken and Deirdre to leave the house then visits Tracey................she asks how it went and Tracey tells her she didn't go through with the abortion.............Emily is very pleased at that, she says she has made the right decision. Emily thinks she should tell her mum now

In the bookies flat, Sarah and Todd discuss about Sarah leaving school to work in the cafe.........its what she wants to do.......she knows her mum won't be pleased, but she doesn't live with her mum now , she lives with Todd!!!

Mick is whinging at Janice...........he reckons Les's birthday shouldn't matter to her now........she tells him it doesn't!! He says he's fed up with waiting for her to get this divorce...........Jan get annoyed, she tells Mick she will get this divorce when she is good and ready and not before!!! He says he's off to the pub, she tells him to do what he likes!!! (honeymoon period over there too then)

Emma and Curly go into the Rovers.............they sit with Vera and Jack..............they say they are moving soon, they have decided to rent...............Jack and Vera wish them all the best, and Curly tells them they are his best friends..............Emma points out he will make loads of new friends up north, but Jack reckons there are no friends like your old friends........... anyway.....drinks all round to celebrate their move!!!!!

Roy and Hayley are pushing their dinner around their plates........neither of them can eat ............... they are worrying still about Tracey and the baby.............where will they get the other £15,000 in the next 8 months, Hayley says their credit is good............... Hayley reckons they should have proof of pregnancy.............

Back to Deirdre's.....Ken and Deirdre arrive back while she is chatting to Emily. Tracey says she has an announcement.............. she's going to the Caribbean for a 2 week holiday..........she leaves this afternoon

Tracey is ironing her clothes................Ken and Deirdre want to know where she has got the money to go.................she lies and tells them her hubby owed her something from their joint account. Deirdre reckons she must think they are daft if she expects them to believe she "forgot " about a joint account!!

Jack want to arrange a party for Curly leaving.............. Vera invites Emily for lunch, but she says no cos Norris is cooking for her.

Janice sees Les in the street, and they are chatting and joking about...........he calls her his wife, she says ex..he says not yet...........he knows she wants to get back with him and Mick is her bit on the side................its just harmless banter, they are joking around, Jan reckons she couldn't fancy Les if he was steam cleaned ..jet washed, and gift wrapped, but he laughs and tells her they were made for each other!!! but Mick is watching from across the road, and he doesn't look happy.................when Janice goes he follows her home.................

Roy and Hayley are off to see Tracey.........Sarah and Todd appear and ask if she can work full time.............Roy says yes, tomorrow first thing, but they are in a hurry.

Janice goes mad for Mick following her.................he's questioning her, demands to know what they was talking about!!! he says he can't talk to her anymore..............is there anything she needs him for???? I think Janice is beginning to wonder that herself.

Roy and Hayley arrive at Tracey's.............they are invited in by Ken, is there anything wrong?? they ask for Tracey, but are told she left 15 minutes ago.......... Roy asks when she will be back? but is told she has gone to the Caribbean for 2 weeks Hayley asks if she had already arranged this holiday, but no it was only arranged today.

Sunita is not happy that Ciaran has to work while Bev is away..........why can't Peter do it?? But Peter don't want to know

Tyrone is back for the allotment................his face is sad...........Maz didn't turn up.

Emma and Curly are packing, he has acquired a load of stuff over the years..................he says they are all memories, of people and friends past and present.............Emma says that memories go with you in your head!! you never forget the person!!

Roy tells Hayley that Tracey is laughing at them again...........maybe she isn't in the Caribbean....maybe she's having the abortion after all.........what are they going to do?? will they ever see her or their money again???

Sue Nicholson