2006

Sunday 2 July

Steve is furious that Tracy may have left Amy home alone. 'I know that she was looking for a baby sitter because she asked me,' Steve tells Shelley. Shelly tells Steve the whole story of Tracy and Charlie's discussion in the pub, and how Charlie refused to go home and look after Amy. As the pair ring the door bell and wait, Shelley continues to explain, 'Tracy left and said to Charlie don't wait up, and Charlie just finished his pint as if he didn't have a care in the world.' Steve frowns and looks at Shelley, worriedly telling her, 'Well the place still looks empty, unless Amy's in there on her own!'

Janice is worried as Leanne has become very quiet. She asks what is wrong but before Leanne can answer, the girls come over and say, 'Listen, I'm sorry. We all are. We didn't mean any of that stuff we said before,' Kelly tells Leanne. Of course, Janice wants to know what has been going on. Leanne tells Janice, 'They were all slagging me off at the bar.' Hayley is horrified. 'Oh you weren't!' She exclaims. Kelly immediately jumps in, insisting, 'We didn't mean it. We were just being daft. We're sorry.' However, her apology seems to have fallen on deaf ears as Leanne screams, 'Get out, the lot of you.' Janice tries to reason with her, telling her that the starters have only just come. Hayley looks appalled at the girls behaviour, but tells Leanne, 'There's no need to call it a night already. I am sure they're really sorry for what they said. 'Leanne is not going to change her mind. Telling Janice that she can stay, she asks for the bill and looks to Hayley to lead the others away. Hayley huffs and puffs before finally taking on her role as mother duck, picking up her bag and leaving, gesturing for the rest to follow her. As the flock head to the door, they are met head on by Sean, bursting through the door, aware that he is more than a bit late. He is most disappointed to find they are already on their way out.

Having called through the letter box and phoned Tracy to no avail, Steve and Shelley head for Emily's. 'Erm, Amy's not with you is she?' Steve asks calmly as Emily opens the door. Not wishing to cause alarm, Steve explains that they are just looking for her but that Tracy is not in. Emily explains that Tracy and the rest of the family are all out at a party so all Steve and Shelley can do is thank her for the information. Steve is slightly less calm when Shelley asks what he is going to do. 'I'm going to flipping break in,' he answers. doesn't take much for Steve to hoof his way through the front door in his quest to find Amy. Once inside, Shelley finds a note on the table. She calls to Steve who is frantically searching the flat. Reading aloud she quotes, 'Charlie, I knew you'd come back, sucker. Amy's with Sarah Platt, go out and enjoy yourself, love Tracy.' Steve breathes a sigh of relief, but Shelley, not one for removing the crisis from a drama, tells him, 'Yeah but we broke into the place. She'll go mad!'

With a table full of food, the last thing Leanne wants to do is eat so Janice offers to ask for a doggy bag. 'Come on Leanne, don't let them get to you. I dread to think what people have said about me behind my back.' Janice consoles. Leanne is tearful and tells Janice, 'I just wanted to do something nice.' Janice can explain the reason for the girl's reluctance to like Leanne. 'They stitch knickers and you help the boss to count the profits!' She explains.

Adam laughs as Joanne explains why they are back so early, but Joanne tells him, 'No, we were really horrible about her.' Kelly owns up to having been the worst culprit. 'Well, if slagging off Leanne Battersby's a sackable offence then Mr Baldwin's going to have to get rid of the lot of us,' Fiz chuckles. Hayley makes it clear that they weren't talking on everyone's behalf and she hopes that Leanne realises it, adding that she had been looking forward to that meal all day. 'Don't worry about Leanne, she can handle it,' Adam tells Joanne. Joanne is still upset that she has been nasty. She soon cheers up when Adam asks, 'Does this mean I can take you out after all?' Adam suggests to Joanne that they head back to the Italian. Joanne tells him she is not hungry. 'Well, okay but let's not stay here. Why don't we go into town? Adam asks her. Whilst Adam has gone outside to phone a cab, Kelly jumps up and says to Joanne, 'Well, he's certainly working his way through the workforce isn't he!' Joanne had thought that Kelly's brief dalliance with Adam had just been a fling. 'Oh, and you're the love of his life are you? The big one!' Kelly mocks.

Unable to sleep, Clare gives up on her early night and comes down for a snack. Ashley offers to make her a bowl of vanilla ice cream with golden syrup. She tries to assure Ashley that the welfare officer that is coming to see them is very nice. Ashley is not too keen on someone coming to snoop around their house.

Tracy is shocked, on her return from the family party, to find the door to the flat ajar and the lock broken. Grabbing her phone from her bag, she runs up the street.

Things still seem a bit strained between Steve and Lloyd. Steve offers to buy Lloyd a drink but Lloyd turns him down. All the time, the two are being watched by Kelly. Having seen that Steve and Lloyd have settled their differences, she asks Lloyd, 'Does that mean me and you can settle our differences and all?' Lloyd looks at her and answers, 'I don't think so Kell, no.' Kelly is annoyed at his unwillingness to even give her a chance, when he is clearly able to with Steve and calls him a hypocrite and storms off.

'Well, the good news is Amy's alright,' Shelley tells Bev, adding, 'The bad news is when I couldn't get any answer at Charlie's I went to look for Steve.' From here, Steve takes up the story, 'And when I couldn't get any answer I kicked the door down!' Shelley is blaming herself, but Steve is adamant that they did the best thing and had to put their minds at rest.

Charlie jumps out of a taxi and immediately runs around the corner to find Tracy. She is hiding out of the way, whilst keeping a watch for anyone leaving the flat. Charlie puts his shirt around Tracy's bare shoulders and asks if she is okay. Obviously, she is not okay and rather shaken. She has called the police already, so Charlie grabs a mallet and heads back towards the flat. Without hesitation he storms into the flat and up into the living room. Showing no sign of fear, he looks around for any sign of an intruder, before calling to Tracy, 'It's alright, you can come up.' 'Maybe it wasn't burglars at all,' Charlie tells Tracy, picking the note up from the table. 'You'd better call the cops again. Tell them not to rush,' he suggests, realising what has happened.

Adam and Joanne are still waiting for a taxi. Adam makes the mistake of asking Joanne about work, and she is very reluctant to pass comment. She gets up and to his surprise, tells him she is going to give the night out a miss. Adam chases after her and explains, 'I asked you out because I like you. Look I'm sorry, I won't ask about work again.'

Les has not given up on his chance of securing new terms of employment. With Kirk again watching to learn, he accosts Lloyd as he heads home. 'I think it's only fair I should warn you, I have been speaking to Steve MacDonald,' Les starts. Before he can continue, Lloyd smiles and pats him on the arm, telling him, 'Good Les, so have I and we're partners.' The only offer Les gets out of Lloyd is the suggestion he applies for his old job back. Still, Kirk is impressed all the same.

'Ah, you got the note then. Good,' Steve stammers as Charlie and Tracy walk into the pub. He continues, 'There's been a bit of a mix up but everything's alright now. Would you like a pint?' 'What do you think you're playing at?' Tracy demands. 'It's not like we're burglars,' Steve laughs nervously. Charlie begs to disagree, and guesses that the police will take the same opinion when he calls them. Steve argues, 'I phoned you three times tonight. Maybe if you'd have turned your phone on none of this would have happened.' Things take a different turn when Shelley tells Tracy that the reason for her concern was that she saw Charlie leave the pub and get on a bus. Tracy was under the impression that Charlie had first been home to check on Amy and seen the note giving him permission to go out. Charlie denies having done this so Tracy calls his bluff by asking, 'Where is she then? If you had gone home and seen the note you'd be able to tell me where she is!' Of course, Charlie has no idea.

Still sat chatting at the restaurant, Leanne asks Janice, 'Do you like me? Are you proud of me?' Janice tells Leanne that of course she likes her and that she is a survivor. Leanne can't help but question whether Danny really loves her and wants to marry her. 'What you want from a bloke like Danny is security and you've got that,' Janice tells Leanne, adding, 'Well you have as long as you keep hold of that will!' Leanne laughs and answers, 'I can hardly say, love me or else Adam gets the factory.' By the end of the conversation Leanne and Janice have come to the conclusion that worrying what the factory girls think is hardly worth bothering about.

'I knew Amy was safe because I didn't believe for a second that you would leave her,' Charlie whispers to an agitated Tracy. Tracy is having none of this. 'Charlie, for all you knew, I could have gone to the party and left her!. Sean, having listened in, can't wait to get back to his table and tell the girls, 'Minor altercation, seven o'clock!' The pair continue their futile argument, getting nowhere and blaming each other. 'She's your responsibility,' is Charlie's closing statement. Tracy explains that he has made her well aware of that and that she is not going to leave Amy with him ever again, not even to go to the corner shop. Tracy is furious that something could have happened to Amy. Shelley dares to interrupt, explaining, 'You see, this is why I was a little bit worried,' only to have her head bitten off as Tracy snaps, 'Yeah well don't be because it's none of your business!'

'You will be nice to the Welfare Officer when she comes round won't you?' Clare asks Ashley as she tousles his hair. 'I want them to come round. I want them to see what a brilliant dad you are,' Clare smiles, and kisses him as she continues, 'And I want them to see how happy OUR son is.'

'Unbelievable! We get broken into because of their nasty suspicious minds, and I get it in the neck,' Charlie shouts, now not caring who is listening and performing to the rest of the clientele. Clare stands her ground and insists that anyone hearing the same as she had heard would be worried. Tracy asks her, 'Oh so if Clare and Ashley started bickering about who's babysitting, you'd have knocked their door down would you?' Charlie thinks that this is about what Shelley thinks of him. 'You think that if Amy's under my roof, she's bound to be in mortal danger. Steve defends Shelley, shouting, 'If that's what she thinks, it's what I think as well!' Steve's support has bolstered Shelley's bravado and she suggests, 'Ask anyone in the pub. It's like a pub quiz with only one question. Do you think Tracy Barlow is the type of person to leave her daughter on her own? Answer yes or no.' Shelley stands shocked as Charlie drags Tracy from the bar, having lunged at poor Shelley for speaking her mind

Katie Fairclough



Monday 3 July

Good evening. Well I had my bit of fun last week - sadly normality returns this week and with it a rather boring update. I realise our readers like short sharp shocks - and if you the interesting bits of this update - oh whoops you missed it.

Events in Weatherfield for this episode are copyright ITV Productions, were written by Martin Allen and directed by Terry Dyddgen-Jones.

Ashley is hanging out the washing and moaning about being hung out to dry by social services when they snoop around later about Josh. Claire has other worries - the baby has not moved for 24 hours and Ashley suggests she contacts the midwife before callously suggesting they do not want to lose two children.

Tracy and Charlie are bickering about Shelley. Charlie assures Tracy that he will not let Shelley get away with it.

Keith is slowly packing whilst Craig sends texts abroad. Craig reckons they have another six weeks before they go. Keith tells him it is a big job - after all last time he moved he had to leave everything behind. Craig is still pretending denial of the move.

Along at the Tilsley/Platt/Hillman house Ken arrives to start teaching David. Ken promises to go easy on David for the first couple of days to recognise that David has not worked recently. They start discussing the "Lord of the Flies". David did not get the film when they saw it - in fact he could go and get from the DVD shop now. Ken can see a scam when it is under his nose and does not want to lose the history lesson planned for the afternoon. David is forced to discuss the book and reckons Jack is the best - the wild card who goes off the rails. They look at several packages.

Claire dashes into the butchers she and Ashley have to go for a scan and Fred is going to look after Josh. Fred will cancel the social worker's visit. At the hospital they are told the baby is in perfect health and the baby has been having a rest - heartbeat is very strong. Ashley and Claire are relieved. The nurse tells them to enjoy it whilst it is quiet.

Bev and Shelley are behind the bar in the Rovers when Tracy and Charlie enter and Bev tries to bar them both. Shelley points out that she is in charge and so as Charlie has done nothing he can stay. Tracy however is barred, until she apologises. Charlie tells Tracy she was out of order the previous night. Charlie apologises to Shelley for Tracy - she is jealous of their romantic past and the feelings they still have for each other. Shelley's only feelings are loathing or contempt. She tells him she is getting another job where he will never find her. She goes out the back, rings the brewery and accepts the job. Bev overhears the conversation and is upset by Shelley's planned departure.

Business at Diggory's is getting worse - lunchtime and no customers except Jason and Sarah who want pizza. As a result pizza it is.

Shel and Bev discuss the former's career plans. Shelley explains that she cannot be manager to her mother and father in law to be - she just feels redundant.

Tracy catches up with Charlie in Roys Rolls and she wants to kill him. He tells her to control her temper. She does not believe he is on her side. And the broken door? Charlie reckons that Shelley will pay. Anyway he has had some good news about the house which will cheer her up.

Carole Bailey the court officer is waiting for Ashley and Claire when they return - they had left the phone off. A somewhat painful interview follows. Nobody is doubting his parenting skills. There is no need for Josh to be told about his biological father yet. Josh is happy. Matt Ramsden feels he has something to offer. Are Ashley's concerns based on his personal feelings or on Josh's needs? Ashley makes his point very clear.

Keith and Jack are discussing the move when Charlie comes along to say that he now owns the house and he has found that Keith is not the tenant - it is Angela. And so Keith is to move out by the end of the week. Charlie tells Jack to stay out of the argument. Keith tells Jack to calm down. Tracy and Charlie depart in much better mood.

By the end of the day Ken has actually got David interested in some history and David has some homework which could count towards his classwork. It seems that Ken has David sussed.

Keith updates Craig on the need to go by the end of the week. It would appear that they have no defence. Keith tells Craig they might as well give in - Keith cannot afford to take on the fight. They might as well move. Craig promised that he would be there when Rosie returns. Craig will have to break up early.

Ashley admits to Claire that he made a right mess of it. No progress in getting up the nose of such people. Ashley alleges that it was Claire's fault, they bicker. Claire reminds him that he needs to get his priority of wife and his own baby much higher up his personal list.

See you next week.

K Richard W

Episode 2

In the garage, Nathan is on the phone to Frankie, asking when she's coming back. Tyrone keeps asking him to ask her what the weather is like.

Tyrone then sees Maria and asks her if she's bought her new perfume for her new boyfriend's benefit. He then tells her he's really pleased that she's seeing someone. Just then, Molly comes along with her dad. She hands Tyrone the leaflets she has just picked up and is planning to deliver. Suddenly Diggory has developed a migraine, but Molly won't be put off. "Do you want to save this business or not?" she asks him, and hands him a pile of the leaflets. "You do the odds, I'll do the evens," she tells him.

Over at the Peacock residence, Claire is not happy with Ashley. He tells her he didn't really mean it when he said that it was her fault that they were not there when the Child Welfare Officer visited. She demands to know why he said it, and he tells her it was because he was angry. She tells him angrily that he's not there even when he is there. "And you haven't been, ever since you got that letter from Matt!" she cries. "Don't you think I love our son as much as you do?" she says, and tells him she's having to cope with it all despite being eight months pregnant. She rushes out, and Fred tries to tell Ashley it's her hormones. Bev, however, speaks up, and comments that Ashley has been rather ignoring Claire of late. She points out how scared and exhausted Claire must be feeling, especially as this is her first baby.

Over in the Harris house, Craig comes downstairs to find Keith ringing round to find a removal firm to take them to Bournemouth at short notice. Keith notices that Craig is in his uniform. "You're not going to school are you?" he asks, pointing out that it hardly seems worth it, and anyway, he needs help there. "So I can't even say goodbye to my mates then?" says Craig. This is obviously something Keith hadn't thought of. "Yes, sorry, I wasn't thinking," he says. "Why would you?" says Craig, bitterly, "I don't matter do I?"

Outside, Craig sees Sally and tells her that Rosie hasn't answered any of his texts. Sally, who is talking to Ken, tells him that she's probably too busy, and tells him he'll live for one day. He explains that they're moving tomorrow. Ken can't believe that Charlie would do such a callous thing, and just then Tracy comes round the corner. "Try telling her that," says Craig.

Shelley is cleaning the Rover's windows, and as she passes, Tracy stops to talk to her. "Err., I think we both got a bit carried away the other night," she says, and suggests they call a truce. Shelley asks if that is meant to be an apology, but Tracy says it isn't. "Good," says Shelley, "you're still barred!" Tracy shouts back, "Oh whatever!" and storms into her house, passing Ken as she does so.

Ken follows her into the house and asks if she has to behave like a harridan in front of her daughter. Tracy asks if he has to talk like he's swallowed a dictionary. She then asks if he can look after Amy while she goes shopping for things for the new house, but Ken refuses, making it clear that he's disgusted that she and Charlie are throwing Keith and Craig out of the house. Tracy then asks if Blanche could look after Amy, but Ken tells her she's in bed. Tracy is not going to be deterred from her mission, however. "Then tell her when she wakes up!" she snaps, and storms out of the house.

Over at Gail's house, she is just telling David to hurry up when Ken rings to say that he has to look after Amy. David's joy is short lived however, when she tells him to go over the road, Ken is expecting him there. "It'll be like an old folks home!" protests David, but Gail just smiles sweetly and tells him it's better than being bullied.

Bev is just going down the street when Liz calls her and says her face is more a funeral face than a wedding face. Bev explains that Ashley and Claire have fallen out, and Shelley has taken the job she's been offered. She wonders out loud to Liz why Shelley always picks bad men, and Liz wonders the same about Steve. The penny finally drops for both of them and they start to hatch a plan.

Over in the taxi office, Claire is wittering on to a very disinterested Steve about her quarrel with Ashley, when Liz appears. She says that she and Vernon were going out for dinner, but now Vernon can't make it and she asks if he would like to go with her instead. He starts to say that he can't go out with his mother, and Claire demands to know why not, after all he lives with her.

Over at Keith's, Jack is helping him pack. Keith suddenly gets quite upset, saying that Craig now hates him for not standing up to Charlie Stubbs. He tells Jack he despises himself for the same reason.

Over in the back room of the Rovers, Bev is using a similar ploy on Shelley. She tells her that Betty will cover her shift behind the bar, so in the end Shelley says, "Oh go on then, why not?"

In the bar, Liz tells Nathan that Frankie was on the phone to her from Spain for over half an hour. "Must have cost her a fortune," she laughs. Nathan is not so amused. "Really?" he says, "she only manages two minutes with me!"

At the Barlow's, Ken is trying to give David a poetry lesson, but is being severely hampered by Blanche, who keeps interrupting and asking questions. She sits down at the table, much to Ken's dismay. "What are you doing?" he asks, "I'm trying to teach." David finds the whole thing extremely amusing, so Ken hastily tries to bring back a serious mood by reciting the poem. Forgetting her promise not to say a word, Blanche complains that it doesn't rhyme and is not impressed when Ken tells her it doesn't have to. She says it's not as good as "My Dog Spot". Ken sighs.

Ashley arrives home with a giant sized teddy bear. Claire comments that Josh will love it, but Ashley tells her it's not for Josh, it's for the new baby. He's also arranged for him and Claire to go out for dinner and have some quality time together.

Across the street, as Charlie leaves his yard, Craig is waiting for him. He asks why it has to be their house that Charlie is taking away, when he could have any house. "Is is just because my granddad's wound you up?" he asks. "Maybe," smirks Charlie and starts to walk away. Craig gets in front of him but Charlie starts to get annoyed. "Go home and pack your toys," he says.

Charlie then starts to goad Craig about Rosie, telling him that in a couple of weeks she'll have forgotten all about him. "Good looking girl like that," he says, "in fact if she was a couple of years older….." Incensed, Craig shoves him, but Charlie pins him up against the wall. "Go home and leave the big stuff to the grown ups," he hisses.

Arriving at the restaurant, Shelley is surprised when she and Bev are led to a table laid for four. Bev mutters that it must be the only one they had left. Just then Shelley spots Ashley and Claire at another table.

At their table, Claire is telling Ashley that she needs him to be with her full time, at least mentally. Ashley comes to realise how he's been making Claire feel, and he tells her he loves her and without her wouldn't be coping at all.

Just then, Liz and Steve arrive. Bev jumps up and Shelley, who is beginning to see what is going on, suggests they join them. "Don't tell me," she says to Steve, "she said that Vernon couldn't make it?" She then grabs her bag, "That's it," she says, "I'm going!" And off she marches. Steve is furious! "Well, how embarrassing!" he shouts at Liz, "how old do you think I am? Ten?"

Back at the Rovers, Fred tells Shelley that her mother was only trying to help. Shelley says that next time she wants some help she'll ask for it.

Over at a table, Maria's new boyfriend has arrived to meet her. She tells him that if he'd been late she would have gone. He doesn't believe her and says she would have waited for him

.

The next person to come into the pub is Steve, having left the restaurant soon after Shelley. She starts to apologise, but he reckons it was all down to his mum. They start to chat, and Shelley suggests drinks on the house seeing as they've been done out of their dinner.

Craig arrives home and is enraged to find Tracy in the living room, measuring up. Keith tells him there's no point fighting unless you win the battle.

Back in the pub, Charlie is none too pleased to see Shelley chatting cosily with Steve. "Looks like they're enjoying themselves," he remarks to Betty. Betty agrees, adding, "They must have enjoyed the meal they went for."

Diggory arrives in the pub with a load of leaflets advertising his pizza. Blanche, with her customary warm nature, tells him she put her leaflet in the bin. Shelley tells him that she likes pizza, but Blanche says that if they're as bad as his cakes she shouldn't bother. Looking miserable, Diggory goes over to Molly and says he's going home. "It's humiliating, this touting for business," he says.

Tyrone goes over and gives Maria and Chris a leaflet, but Chris tells him they'll stick to Giovanni's in town. As Ty walks off, Chris turns to Maria and says, "Looks like he samples his own wares, doesn't he?" Maria doesn't join in his laughter, but looks uncomfortable.

Liz and Bev come into the pub and are amazed to find Steve and Shelley deep in conversation at the bar. Bev turns to Betty and reminds her that she said it would all end in tears!

Craig sits morosely in an armchair as Tracy comes downstairs and says she's going. Keith wishes her luck in her new home. "May your roof never leak," he says. When she's gone, he tells Craig to pack his stuff as there won't be time in the morning. Craig gets out of his chair. "No," he says and walks out the front door.

As Craig strides up the street, ignoring his granddad's calls to come back, Tracy sees Sally and tells her: "You know what? That kid needs a good slapping." Sally snaps, "Pity someone didn't do it to you!" Keith catches up with Craig, but Craig is adamant he's not going. "I promised Rosie I'd be here when she got back and I'm not letting her down." He tells Keith that if he wants to go that's his choice, but he's entitled to his and he's staying. Keith shouts at him that he can't stay, but Craig just asks, "How are you going to stop me?" and walks away.

Anne Logan



Wednesday 5 July

No Corrie due to World Cup coverage


Friday 7 July

Well, it's Friday, and in among the moping about over the World Cup, the saturation coverage of Wimbledon and the commemorative programmes about the London bombings a year ago (and STILL no decent coverage of the Tour de France), they managed to squeeze in a half an hour of Corrie.

A moving van, labelled "Safe As Houses" arrives and Keith comes out to greet the driver, who jumps out of the cab, still puffing away on a cigarette (which he wouldn't be allowed to do in Scotland, where lorries are designated "workplaces"). Keith tells the driver and the driver's mate that there's not much to load and starting lugging out what look like very light boxes. Watching nearby are Charlie and Tracy, both looking very smug and talking to each other in a very smug way that made me so angry I didn't even write down what they said to each other. I wouldn't give them the satisfaction!

Then comes a weird little scene with Molly going to Tyrone's door and asking where his copy of the pizza flyer is. He says it's in the bin because the only one round here with a thick crust is him.

Keith can't find Craig and goes to Sally's to ask if she knows where he is. She suggests he pack up Craig's stuff because Craig sure to be back. "Unless... Did he pack his passport?" She panics Keith into thinking Craig's run off to find Rosie.

Shelley is in the back room of the Rovers talking to her mother. "Why didn't you just buy me a hat with 'loser' written on it? Or I could get a tattoo. Or I could get a T-shirt with 'my Mam picks my fellas'." Bev thinks Shelley and Steve were getting on quite well. Shelley points out that Steve's a regular. She was talking to Steve because she's a barmaid and that's what barmaids do. Bev thinks it was more than that. But Shelley points out that Steve is a convicted criminal with more exes than a pools coupon. "Oh, listen to the Virgin Queen!" screeches Bev. Bev says it's years since Steve was in trouble. He's a nice bloke. Shelley counters that he was hauled in for questioning the other week, but Bev points out that wasn't because of him. It was Ronnie's fault. "So, he's got dodgy taste in women," says Shelley. "Who you gonna call?" Bev says there's no pleasing some people. "He's kind, he's gentle, he's funny. Funny goes a long way. You could do a lot worse." "And I have done," Shelley points out. "There. I've saved you the trouble of saying it."

Straight over to Steve's place, where he's also being hassled by his mother. "Course she's nice," he agrees. "Claire Peacock's nice. That bloke Hayley Cropper's nice." He thinks of Shelley more as an auntie. "Yeah, but a cheeky young auntie who lets you have a sip of her lager when your mum and dad's not looking," Liz suggests. "No," says Steve. "More like the auntie that tickles you with her moustache when she kisses you at Christmas." Liz points out that Shelley hasn't got a moustache. "That you can see from across the bar," he says. "I reckon she dyes it." Liz tells him to stop trying to get her off the subject. He points out that his last girlfriend nearly got him sent down. His last one-night stand nearly ruined his business. "I'm sticking to the gee-gees. Safer odds."

Keith is trying to get Tyrone and Jack to unload all the boxes so he can hunt for Craig's passport. He has no idea which box it might be in. Audrey comes over to wish him the best while he's trying to search. He's very abrupt with her. "Let him get on with it, silly old fool. It's his loss," Audrey mutters to Sally before stalking off.

Craig is round in Victoria Street, returning home, when he's met by David. Craig says he's been trying to convince a "fat cat" that he doesn't eat babies. Translation: He's been at Imogen's, trying to find out exactly where the girls have gone on their school trip. David asks what he's going to do. Craig has just 72p in his pocket, so he can't go to France. He suggests throwing himself off the viaduct would be better than going to Bournemouth. "This is mad," David says. "Why don't you just stay at mine." He convinces Craig that it's a logical plan. The sofa or the floor will do till Rosie gets back.

Charlie fronts up to the bar and asks Shelley for a pint and a sarnie. "Go on, surprise me." Shelley says she doesn't dare. "What if I get it wrong? Before I know it, there'll be packing cases outside the pub and you'll be serving behind the bar." "Very funny," says Charlie. "Not if your name is Harris," points out Shelley. Charlie says if the name on the rent book had been Appleyard, all would have been well. Shelley says he could have given them a couple of weeks to pack. Charlie thinks they've got nothing to pack. "Couple of fishing rods and a death metal T-shirt? Oh, and Keith's collection of stuffed animals?" Charlie changes the subject and tells Shelley that he saw her and Steve twinkling at each other last night. (Ah, that explains why my TV set had this strange green glow!) But he warns her that Steve's not a patch on him -- at least according to Tracy. "You know what, Charlie. He's just another punter to me. Like you. Three pound twenty, please."

David tells Craig he'll go and sort things out. Craig goes over to where Keith and Sally are still hunting through boxes. Keith and Sally both shout at him, but Craig wants to know if Sally's even told Rosie what's going on. The moving van driver is getting twitchy because this is a shared load and he's got another pick-up. Craig says he's not going. He's got somewhere to stay.

At the Platts', David is fighting a losing battle against Gail and Audrey and Sarah. Audrey thinks having Craig to stay will be asking for trouble. Gail thinks there's no room. And Sarah thinks Craig will ogle her if she comes downstairs in her nightie. "You're not that irresistible," David points out.

Back next door, Keith is pointing out to Craig that he promised Craig's mother he'd look after him. Gail comes over to point out that they don't have the room to have Craig to stay. David points out that Sarah could stay at her fiance's. Gail says Craig is still legally a child, so it would be too much responsibility. Craig says he'd pay. Keith says the whole idea is embarrassing. They're still coming up with reasons when the door slams. Craig's locked himself in.

Tracy goes into the Rovers, where Charlie is having a pint and asks how much longer. Her dad keeps glaring at her and she's got nowhere to go. Shelley asks if she's forgotten something. "No," says Tracy quietly, demurely, with her head bowed and her hands folded modestly in front of her. "I'm barred. I know that Shelley, but I came in to apologise," she says. Accused by Bev of coming in to see Charlie, Tracy admits that, but says it was to check on whether he thought flowers would be too much. "Oh, she's good," comments Bev. "Isn't she!" says an admiring Charlie. Tracy continues with a fulsome apology. But Charlie says Shelley still won't be letting Tracy back into the pub, "not now she's got me all to herself." Of course, this prompts Shelley to say the apology is accepted. In one of the booths, Diggory is hoeing into a hotpot when Molly catches him. She tells him he could have eaten with them for free. Diggory says he's been dreaming of pizzas for days. Steve comes in and Bev says Shelley is due a break. Shelley tells Steve a very bad joke. Charlie's eyes are absolutely fixed on the two of them.

Round at Charlie's (almost) new home, a ladder is going up to the bedroom window. "Who's going up?" asks the removal man. Jack has a dodgy ticker. Sally's afraid of heights. The removal man is almost at the top of the ladder when Craig shuts the window.

Down below, David tells Gail what Craig said about the viaduct. Charlie and Tracy turn up to find out what the delay is, and are told about Craig. The removal man's boss is on the phone wanting to know why they're not on the move. So Tracy helps in the way she knows how: "That's trespassing! Squatting!" she spits. "Phone the police!" And indignant Sally points out that Craig is a 15-year-old kid. David looks her up and down. "That didn't stop you when Craig was 'trespassing' with Rosie." Keith has been shouting through the letter box and now clutches his chest as Charlie takes over shouting through the letter box. "Are you listening to me? You've got five minutes, mate, then I'm dragging you out myself." He stomps off. Keith is still clutching his chest. He tells Sally his angina spray is on the kitchen table. Sally now shouts through the letter box. Craig doesn't believe her. He thinks it's a trick. But he puts the spray out through the letter box.

Tyrone are on pizza duty at the baker's shop. But their first customer, Liz, just wants a large crusty white sliced and some Eccles cakes.

David is going on at his family about never getting what he wants. He tells Sarah it would be different if it was her asking. "Let's have a baby so it can puke everywhere and keep everybody up all night." This sends Gail off on one. But David tells her to look at what Craig's up against. They turn to see Tracy and Charlie marching up the street like a couple of cybermen. "And you still won't lift a finger to help," David says to his mother. As Charlie arrives he shouts to Craig: "I'm back!" "Yeah, and this time it's personal," sniggers Tracy behind him. Jack points out that Craig has lost his whole family and now he's about to lose his home. "Well, he shouldn't be so careless," grins Tracy. Before anyone can stop him, Keith picks up a crowbar and smashes the glass in the door. He marches inside and stops in front of Craig, who's sitting on the stairs. "Barricade the door to your room if you like. I'll follow you wherever you go!" Sally comes in and tells him that Rosie might be impressed at first, but Craig has to stop what he's doing because it's dangerous. "Are you saying that your feelings for Rosie are more important than your grandad's feelings for you? He worried sick for you -- literally. He could end up in intensive care, and then where would your precious independence be?" She tells him he'd be put in a children's home and then he'd have no say over anything. She's talked to Rosie, who will call Craig at 8pm on his mobile. "I told her everything Craig. I told her how you felt."

At the Platts', Gail gives David a new mobile phone. She tells him he can phone her on it and keep in touch with Craig. He dashes upstairs to charge it. "Remind me to act like a total div tomorrow," Sarah sneers. "I might get a new pair of jeans out of it." She says David needs to know they care about him. "He needs to know it's over -- that we trust him."

In the pub, Shelley is telling Steve what went on with Keith and the door. She's thinking of taking round a pane of glass instead of a pot plant as a housewarming present. "A pane of glass for a pain in . . ." Shelley stops him. "Now now, don't get bitter -- get lager instead!" she chortles. Steve says he'll have another drink if she'll have one too. But Shelley points out that MI6 is clocking their every move and if he offers her a drink he might as well offer her an engagement ring. Steve looks over to see the Greek chorus of Audrey, Bev and Liz propped in a corner, yes, clocking their every move. Steve suggests they go to the Wethy Arms and call it a date. "It'd be worth it just to see your mother's head explode." Bringing the word "date" into the conversation has suddenly made them both feel very awkward and they move apart. Audrey's phone rings. It's Keith, wanting to apologise.

Out in the street, we hear his side of the conversation. He's stammering out his apology when Audrey walks up behind him. They hug. Nearby, Sally is taking a picture of Craig and David on David's new phone. They say their goodbyes. The lads hug. Jack shakes Keith's hand. Tracy, waiting with her arms full of possessions, is sighing. Charlie suggests Keith pay for smashing the door, but nobody nearby can remember Keith smashing a front door. I think Keith has borrowed Onslow's car from Keeping Up Appearances and he and Craig drive off. Those of you in Bournemouth will be able to hear it coming.

Margaret Carr



Sunday 9 July

No Corrie due to World Cup coverage


Monday 10 July

Good evening and welcome to Street events now that the World Cup is over, luckily things are still kicking off in Weatherfield where tonight some old friends come face to face and a headbutt from Zinedine Zidane would be like a French kiss compared with the punishment being handed out tonight.

We start with Sarah looking at a skip outside the former Harris residence as Charlie is clearing it with help from Jason, who despite having an IQ that must also be negative can see her remembering the Scooter who once passed by. Anyway there is rubbish in the back garden and Jason agrees to put it in the skip. Charlie observes events and tells Jason that even the mentally challenged Sarah has worked out what he was thinking about. Jason gives it some thought and decides to ask Charlie to be his best man - good grief can't the Directors afford to bring Todd back for a single episode? If Charlie is the best man - who is the worst - Ken Barlow?

Clare is heading for an ante-natal class - with her mother - and of course Ashley having last week discovered that Clare is having a baby thinks he ought to be going with her. No I don't understand it either, luckily I missed this bit twice so thanks to the updates over at ITV for bringing me up to date. Later she and her mother are having a drink in the Rovers with Bev. Clare admits to being concerned - and it turns out her mother is not much help because she has forgotten most of her pregnancy apart from holding her daughter for the first time. Anyway as Bev observes millions of women have babies every day. Ashley arrives and is told they also have his homework - books and a DVD - the latter is apparently quite graphic (and I don't think they mean that the content consists of line drawings). Clare assures him it will all be straightforward - after all millions of women have babies every day (these millions of women must be busy).

Tracy has wheedled Dreary into baby-sitting (if you believe that you really are a sucker) so asks Charlie if they can go out for the evening. Charlie proves hard to get and says he needs to keep working on the house. As he explains to Jason it is merely so that Tracy feels grateful when he does say yes.

Along at the Rovers Shelley and Steve are having a laugh closely observed by Bev and Hayley - the former hopes that they will soon get together. Steve manages to joke his way into inviting Shelley for a pizza and they are overheard by Charlie who has a rather grim (well when does he have anything else) grin on his face. Tracy arrives as Shelley goes out the back and the former is greeted by Charlie with the news that they are going to the Italian this evening (now that was a surprise wasn't it). And he tells her they will not be moving into the ex-Harris residence - he is looking to do it up and sell it on at a quick profit so they will eventually live somewhere really nice (Tracy wake up and smell the fire, Charlie has no intention of making an honest woman of you).

Sean has established from his mother that his father is called Paul Jones and might have moved to Sheffield - and that will make it easy to find him - after all there cannot be many P Jones in Sheffield can there?

Audrey, Gail and Sarah discuss men. Audrey now admits that 'er Alf was perfect - not that she appreciated it then of course. Gail has not found a perfect man - Brian, Martin, Richard and a few others have been pretty imperfect - well eventually. Later Jason brings his mother into the Rovers and Sarah invites them both to join the family group. Eileen and Gail are barely polite to each other. Jason returns with the drinks and asks if everyone's happy - Gail's face implies the complete opposite!

At the Italian Steve and Shelley are getting along as mates quite well until the other couple turns up. The two couples glower at each other and trade comments until Tracy finds a table. With the intention of causing mayhem Charlie sends a bottle of red wine to the other table and Shelley tells the waiter to take it back and smash it over his head; Steve however thinks of a better solution - he sends a bottle of champagne in the other direction - which Shelley insists on paying for. Tracy is having trouble with her phone - it keeps ringing! Turns out that Dreary has a sick kid on her hands and wants rid of it. Tracy rushes to tell Steve and he agrees to drive them to the hospital so that they can check Amy is not really suffering from meningitis.

This is going better than Charlie could imagine as he is left with Shelley and best part of two bottles of wine and Steve has paid his bill! Charlie, his spaghetti and champagne join Shelley.

A call from the hospital - no real problem but they are keeping Amy in overnight so she will be staying with Steve. Shelley's taxi arrives and she is about to go when Charlie accuses her of running away from him - and the stupid blonde bint falls into his trap and cancels the taxi. He always could wind her round his little finger.

And he steps up the ante. He says he is sorry for everything and she says he bullied her, abused her and drove her close to insanity (so Shelley why are you even listening to him - wake up smell the burning and get out of there now - I shouted at the tv at about this point). Anyway Charlie now turns up the wick - after all he can remember the good times - the passion and that she was great in bed (as he says please do not tell Tracy that) - originally he liked having her in the bedroom and being there all day every day was his wildest dream ... and he wishes her all the best for the future.

Along at the Barlows Adam has worked his magic on Ken's computer and hands over a list of 163 Paul Jones in Sheffield. So Sean dials number 55 (well 5 is his lucky number and that must double his luck). The phone is answered by Patrick Jones (age 7) and his father is simply too young. He keeps making calls - but makes little progress - after all would you admit to fathering a child if someone rang you in the middle of the night?

Shelley, seeking to change the subject wants to know what Charlie's plans are. He does not have any. No wedding bells - he was jilted at the altar last time (making Shelley feel really guilty) - he was in love with Shelley and he is not in love with Tracy. Charlie admits it was not a co-incidence that they were all in the restaurant - he heard Steve earlier in the day. He wanted to spoil her evening because he is still obsessed by the past and that he is still getting over losing Shelley. Shelley has had enough - she stands up and tells Charlie she is walking home - it is easy enough just one foot in front of another.

Charlie settles up and catches up with Shelley but she does not want company and he ends up walking three steps behind like a Royal Consort (although the view is probably much better).

And that's it from me for this week.

I think next week we return to normality and for those with the real addiction "Bad Girls" is back on Thursday.

K Richard W

Second part of an hour-long episode tonight

This episode is written by Joe Turner and directed by Tim O'Mara

We open back within 30 seconds and not the normal 30 minutes here in the UK. Tyrone is running along the street. He heads for Diggory's shop.

At Diggory's shop he tells Molly he is sorry for being late. She tells him its ok as he tells her he fell asleep watching television. He says it was weird as he was watching Trevor Mac Donald and the next thing it was plants taking over the world. She gives a smile as Diggory comes in. He says, "Reinforcement" Tyrone replies saying he is and ready to go. They are trying to sell pizzas. Diggory has a look as if this is not going to save them and asks them who is going to want a pizza at this time. Tyrone quickly all excited says he would and then asks if he can have one. He says he will pay and gets a pepperoni and mushroom. Diggory goes to make his pizza. He tells Molly you have to test the product so you know what you're selling.

Over at the Rovers where Charlie and Shelley are, Shelley pours two glasses of wine. Charlie asks her if she is going to miss the Rovers. She tells him yes as its a nice pub and then tells him all about the new place. "It's in a little village in Derbyshire, the farthest flung outpost of the Newton & Ridley empire. It's right next to a little stone bridge over a river, and a lovely garden and..." He cuts her off and says roses round the door. He says it's an end of an era. Shelley says it's a new one for her. Charlie says not for him. He then says this is the last time they are probably going to have a drink together as they can't been seen together and they can't be seen having a civilised drink and chat. She replies, "And whose fault is that?"

Joanne and Sean are round at the Barlow's household. Joanne is on her mobile saying you don't have to be so rude. She then tells Sean they hung up. Sean tells her to put a question mark and they will phone back when they have calmed down. Adam tells Sean he has a lot of question marks just then Blanch comes in. Adam asks if they woke her. She asks what they are doing and Sean says they are trying to find his dad. "You are phoning strangers in the middle of the night and asking them if they fathered a child they may not know about?" Blanch says then asks if he wants to give people nightmares. She then tells him who would want to admit to being related to him.

Over at the Platt's household Sarah and Jason are watching television while comfy on the sofa. Gail is just going to bed and tells them not to have the television to loud and says goodnight to them. They both say night back. Sarah gives a smile and says that's nice as they are getting on. Sarah then says, "Do you know what I really want?" He bets he could read her mind. She replies saying she fancies a pizza. Jason then says a pizza and says he fancies her. Sarah says she fancies him but only after he phones Diggory and order a ham and pineapple pizza. She then hands him a leaflet that says they will deliver to you're door.

Back to the Rovers where Shelley and Charlie are having a good time. He tells her this could have been their world, and when Fred and Bev retire to the countryside he would have bought this place for her. He says when he lost her he lost everything. Shelley replies, "They do say let the punishment fit the crime" Charlie says he is impressed as she seams confident and strong. "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger" Shelley tells him. Charlie tells her that he remember what they were like at the start and tells him it's hard for him to move on. Shelley tells him he better go. He asks if she is calling time and going to kick him out. Shelley replies saying if she has to kick him out she will. He gives a node and says he will go quietly after he does one more thing. He asks to pull one more pint and he will go. He tells her this could be his last change to do so. She lets him on the other side of the bar and gives him a glass. Charlie pulls his pint slowly and after he is done he leans forward to Shelley and goes in to kiss her. After they shop she looks a bit shocked but she goes back for more. As they are kissing we can see car lights from the window as a car passed by.

Out in the street we see the car that passed. It's Steve and Tracy coming back from the Hospital. Steve asks Tracy if she is ok. She tells him that she can Charlie can coupe. She then thanks Steve for being at the Restaurant. He tells her he will always be there for Amy. She tells him she is sorry for the way their were in the restaurant and when something like this happens it puts it all in perspective. Steve then says he will help get Amy in side. Tyrone is delivering a pizza. He sees Sean and asks if he's been out clubbing. He says he has just been a walk. Tyrone when tells him to smell the pizza. Sean does. Tyrone tells him if he orders one now he can have it in 15 minutes. Sean not looking too happy says he's not in the mood and would rather just go to bed. Tyrone says in an hour he will be gutted. Tyrone goes and Sean goes to open the door to the Grimshaw's.

Tracy is back in side Charlie's flat. She looks confused that he is not at home. Tracy goes in the other room to look for him and calls his name. She comes back through. She then goes over to her jacket and takes out her mobile. She calls someone.

Back to the Rovers we can see that Tracy has called Charlie. His mobile is going off and flashing. Charlie does not even look over at his but continues to kiss Shelley all over.

After the break we come back to Diggory standing out side his shop. Molly comes and joins him. He tells her two pizzas is not going to save them. She asks where his fighting spirit is. He tells her there is no point in fighting a losing battle and you have to know when to give up. Just then the phone rings. He jokes saying its Tyrone got lost. She goes to answer it. She smiles and says ten pizzas. Diggory's face lights up and she tells him to get cooking pizza as she takes the order. Diggory goes to the back as she says, "Three margarita, two Hawaiian…"

At the back garden of the Platt's Sarah and Jason are outside under the mood light. They have a small fire going. Jason asks Sarah if she was thinking about Scooter when she saw the skip. She tells him she was, "But I was thinking about sandpits and rubbish and dead fish as well. Anyway, I bet you still think of Violet sometimes" Jason says he does and Sarah immediately goes off on one saying how could he. Jason starts to grovel and she bursts out laughing, "You are so easy to wind up. I don't mind that you think of Violet sometimes. Well I do but as long as your worship me like a goddess it's okay. Actually, I think we should get married as soon as possible so everyone knows it's me and you and no-one else" Jason not looking bothered says yes. Sarah's face lights up and is thinking about plans now.

Shelley and Charlie are putting on their clothes over at the Rovers. As Charlie is putting back on his shirt he tells Shelley, "You still want me. In fact I don't think you ever stopped wanting me and I can still make you do anything I want" Shelley looking a bit confused tells him he didn't make her do any thing. Charlie has a smile on his face as he tells her, "Do you ever set yourself little challenges? Me and Jason do it all the time. How many bricks can I lay in an hour? How quickly can I plumb that washing machine in? How long would it take me to seduce a woman who hates my guts?" She looks shocked and quickly says, "You think you seduced me? What makes you think I wasn't using you just as much as you were using me" He tells her, the look on her face now tells him. He then tells her she can still go away to her new pub with a remind of what she will be missing. Charlie then says she was not bad and was better than what he remembered and that he felt some passion. Shelley holding her top snaps back telling him she won't be missing much. She tells him she would give him three out of ten but he is now talking his way down to a two. He tells her to go tell everyone is she is so proud of her performance tonight, "Tell the world how you used me and abused me. You can abuse me anytime you like. Or you can go running off to your little pub in the country. Either way, I don't give a damn. Don't bother getting up. I'll see myself out" Charlie then gets up and heads for the door leaving Shelley looking as if she is really pissed off at him.

Over at the Grimshaw's household Eileen comes in to her living room and is shocked to find Sean siting in the dark. She asks what he is doing. He tells her he is thinking and she says, "In the dark?" He replies saying he does not need his eyes to think. He then tells her he thinks he has found his dad. He looks surprised and says he does not look very happy. He hands her the list of all the Paul Jones in Sheffield. It's a very bit list. He tells his she will put the kettle on. Sean says he does not want to keep her up but she says she is up anyway.

Back to the Rovers again Shelley is cleaning in the dark. She is not looking at what she is doing and looks in pure rage. She cleans the counter hard still staring into space and deep in thought. She is in a state of shock.

Back to Diggory's place and Tyrone comes back with the ten pizzas. Molly asks him if he could not find the place. He tells her he found it no problem but says it was a slimming club place and it was closed. They realise they have been done over. Diggory says it is probably one of the other pizza places sending a message. He thanks them for all the hard work and effort that they have put in to keep this place going. He says they could see pies and deliver. Tyrone says everyone loves pies. He tells them that its over and businesses close all the time. Molly starts to protest. He tells her this is just the wrong place to sell cakes and bread. Charlie comes in and asks if he can order a pizza. Diggory starts laughing and he asks what is funny. Diggory tells him, "You, my friend, have the dubious honour of being the very last customer in this shop. But fear not, for I am going to bake you the finest pizza you have ever tasted" Tyrone says they can deliver it to him but he says he is hear now so he might as well just wait. Molly not happy asks what topping he would like. He says, "Surprise me"

Back to the Grimshaw's house and Sean and Eileen are siting on the sofa having a chat. Eileen asks Sean what he is going to do if he finds his dad. He does not know and has not planned that far a head. She tells him he could be the next person on the list. Sean tells her that he could have a new family, or his dad could have been killed six years ago by an ice cream truck or he could be gay. Sean very upset says he wants what everyone else has. Eileen asks what that is. Sean cries a dad, "Why can't I just have a normal family. A mum, a dad, an older brother, a little sister and a dog and a hamster?" Eileen tells him, "Listen Sean, I'm going to make this quick 'cos it's late and we should both be in bed. Stop feeling sorry for yourself. You've got two families. You're dead lucky. You've got your mum and you've got me. I've already got two sons and I didn't ask for a third but I love you and that's why you are living in my house" He begins to cry and she tells him not to start as she does not have any tissues for him to use. Sean sobbing tells her he will use his sleeve. Sean then says, "You're right. I don't need this" He then throws the list of who could be his dad to the floor and then falls into Eileen's arms.

Rovers Bev comes downstairs and asks what is going on. Shelley says she is cleaning. Bev says she left this place clean. Bev then asks if Steve came back with her. Shelley replies, "'Mam, I'm moving away in a few days. I don't need a man. I can make my own decisions and my own mistakes. I just had a few drinks when I got back" Bev asks if it was on her own. Shelley says she just wanted a quiet drink on her own so she could think about her past, future and whether she is doing the right thing. Bev asks, "And are you? Doing the right thing?" Shelley says she is and is sure.

Charlie's flat and Tracy is asleep on the sofa with the television on. Charlie is coming up the stairs and she wakes up. He comes in eating his pizza and Tracy asks where he has been. He retorts, "I could ask you the same thing. I thought you were at the hospital" Tracy tells him that Amy's temperature went down so they let her take her home. Charlie asks why she didn't ring him. She tells him she did but his phone was switched off and asks why. (This must be a mistake as when she phoned him earlier his phone rang and lit up, so it was not off and he would of got 1 missed call) He says, after he got rid of psycho Shelley he went to the hospital to get her and then went and got a pizza as he was hungry. He then tells her that he can drive as fast a Steve. She tells him she is sorry. She then asks, if he is tired and he says no. He then kisses her and they start to make out.

And that's the end of tonight's 1 hour episode. The next episode will be along soon.

Amanda Souter



Wednesday 12 July


Bev sees Liz loading up Vernon's van, and when she asks why he isn't helping Liz explains that he had a late night last night, with the band. Bev wants to know if Steve has said anything about his date with Shelley, but is told no. They promise to meet up later and swap notes.

Back in the pub, Bev, joined by Violet, ask Shelley about the night before. Shelley tells them about Amy being taken to hospital and it all being cut short. Bev doesn't believe her and says she knows Shelley was down in the pub till gone one. Shelley tells her irritably that she had a few drinks and was on the phone to Sunita. "It's like living in a goldfish bowl living in this place," she snaps, and storms out. "That'll be the hangover talking," says Bev to Violet.

Outside in the Street, Steve runs into Shelley and apologises for the other night. She tells him not to worry, as long as Amy is all right that's the main thing. He tells her he's off to the grand reopening of the taxi firm. As Shelley walks off she looks round and sees Tracy and Charlie canoodling in the street. He smirks and winks at her, but she ignores him.

In the Peacock's garden, Fred finds Jason dismantling the fence and isn't too pleased. Charlie appears and says he gave him a knock earlier, but Fred didn't answer. When Charlie tells him he's replacing the fence for a nice new one, at no cost to him, Fred backs down and mumbles, "Well, make sure you ask next time."

Jason notices that Charlie seems extraordinarily happy and asks why. Charlie tells him he had a ‘bit of a result' last night. Jason thinks he means Tracy, but Charlie tells him it wasn't just her, it was someone else as well. He refuses to say who it was, but tells Jason, "Let's just say she's somebody local."

In the taxi office, Lloyd is putting something up on the wall. He tells Steve he's just putting up the licence so everybody knows who the new boss is now.

Back at the Peacock's, Fred is moaning to Claire about the fence. She thinks he should be pleased, it's been on his ‘to do' list for ages. He says he doesn't want Charlie as a neighbour, but she points out that he's selling it. He then continues to get on her nerves until she explodes that she's got Joshua mithering her upstairs, and a pile of ironing that keeps getting bigger.

Over at Streetcars, they're all pretty gloomy as Eileen tells them all she has booked in are a couple of supermarket runs and a pickup from Strangeways. Lloyd says that it's because their reputation has gone down the pan, thanks to a certain someone. Steve is confident that things will pick up. Just then a call comes in and Eileen radios Les, telling him to pick up at 10 March Avenue and take them to…..69 March Avenue. Steve's confident smirk vanishes as Lloyd cries, "Whooo hoo, we're going to be rich!"

Just then Blanche arrives wanting a cab, and waving a flyer about offering free taxis for OAPs. Lloyd tells Steve this was his idea to thank their reliable customers and bring in a little goodwill. Steve says that as it was his idea, he can take her then. Lloyd is quite happy to do this and tells Blanche not to worry about the tip. She says she always tips ten percent, but then adds that as the fare is nothing he should be able to work out ten percent for himself.

Claire is in the garden, pegging out the washing. Josh comes running out to her, and she tells him he should be inside eating his beans on toast. (Not unattended, surely?)

In the next garden, Jason and Charlie agree that it is dinner time and go off for a pint and a hotpot.

In the pub, Jason and Joanne are discussing what she should wear for her date with Adam that evening. Violet thinks she will look gorgeous no matter what she wears, and then turns to Sean and asks if he's had any luck finding his dad. "Oh that," says Sean breezily, "couldn't afford the phone bills." Violet tells him that any time he wants to talk…..but he brushes her off with a flippant remark.

Jason is still trying to guess who Charlie slept with, and tells him, "So it's someone round here and you've been with them before." Charlie tells him not to keep racking his brains. Just then Shelley comes over to take the order and he tells her, "You can't keep away from me, can you?" The penny finally drops with Jason and he pulls Charlie to one side. "You are joking, aren't you?" he asks him. Violet looks first at them and then at Shelley.

Back in the gardens, Joshua has wandered over to Charlie's side, and picked up a saw by the metal end, and cut his hand. Claire sees him and picks him an carries him indoors.

In the Rovers, Jason and Charlie are sniggering. Charlie finishes his hotpot and says, "Mmm, that was lovely!" Jason agrees, and says, "I could even have seconds!" Shelley snaps then, and retorts, "I thought you already were, with Sarah, after all, didn't your Todd get there first?" Violet still watches everything.

Ashley rushes back into the Street, just as Fred and Claire bring Joshua out of the medical centre. Ashley moans at Claire that she should have called him sooner. She tells him crossly, "Getting him to the doctor was more important. I called you as soon as I could." Fred tells Ashley to calm down, and says that the doctor says it looks worse than it is. "Well you should have called me sooner," snaps Ashley, and taking Josh, marches off towards the house. Fred comforts Claire, "He's not himself at the moment, it's this flaming court case tomorrow."

Over in the pub, Violet goes over and asks Shelley if she's all right. Shelley bursts into tears and says, "I've been such an idiot!"

Fred yells at Charlie for leaving the saw lying around. Charlie says he's sorry, but Fred isn't convinced. Ashley comes into the garden and tells them to keep the noise down, he's just got Josh off to sleep, and then tells Claire he shouldn't have been in the garden anyway. Claire admits she should have kept a closer eye on him, and Ashley thinks Matt Ramsden's lawyers will have field day in court if they hear about this.

Shelley tells Violet what happened with Charlie. Violet is concerned at first that Charlie may have forced himself on her. Shelley laughs and says that if anything it was she who jumped on him, and the two of them laugh.

Violet says that Charlie's saying he used her, she thinks Shelley used him. "Come on Shell, it's 2006, sexual equality and all that."

In the Barlow residence, Adam is getting ready for his date with Joanne. Blanche is moaning that everyone is out and she'll be on her own. Adam smiles, "So, are you coming to the pub with me?" Blanche leaps out of her chair, saying she'll fetch her good cardigan.

Sean is talking to Joanne in the pub, and as Adam walks in he says, "Here he is now, and he brought you an elderly relative, that's so much nicer than flowers!" Adam says he hopes Joanne doesn't mind, and Blanche says that she doesn't want to be a gooseberry. Joanne tells her, "You won't be, because Sean is joining us as well."

Ashley apologises to Claire for getting cross with her and admits it's the court case getting to him. Claire kisses him and tells him they'll get through it, they always do.

Vernon is lecturing Steve, Lloyd and Liz on the merits of the music business. He tells them there's a lot of big egos, and a lot of arguments, but he's never been one to hold on to a grudge. Steve mutters that he's too bone idle to hold on to a grudge. Victor protests that this is victimization, and Steve retorts that he's been there an hour and a half and not bought a drink yet. "I'll get ‘em in then how's that?" says Vernon, offended, and slopes off to the bar.

As Blanche downs her gin, she tells Sean it's very good for her, it thins the blood. Sean remarks that hers must be like water. Joanne whispers to Adam that she thought they were going into town, and Adam tells her he's been giving Blanche doubles all night so she'll soon be ready for bed. However, Blanche doesn't seem to getting at all tired, and is quite affronted when Adam asks if she ought to be getting off home. "Are you trying to get rid of me?" She tells them she's tougher than she looks. She turn to Joanne and asks her, "Guess my age?" Joanne tries to hedge, saying she's never been good at guessing ages, but Blanche presses her. Joanne still tries to avoid answering, but Blanche says it's just a bit of fun and she won't be offended. Joanne shrugs, "I don't know – ninety?" Blanche erupts! "Ninety! Where do you get ninety from?" Joanne stammers, "Er, well, Ken must be about seventy and you're his mum…." Blanche shouts, "I'm Deirdre's mother you stupid girl!" and saying she's not staying to be insulted, she storms off home.

Over at the bar, Tracy goes off to the loo and Shelley turns to Charlie, telling him he's had a good couple of days, cheated on his girlfriend and injured a small child. "You must be made up," she says. He tells her that actually he's a bit hungry, "I wouldn't mind a roll," he smirks. Shelley is not amused and tells him that she's made a few mistakes in her life but the other night with him wouldn't even make the top forty, he's just not that important and if he keeps it up she'll let Tracy know exactly what happened. He's confident that she won't, and that the last thing she would want is for the people around there to know he'd had her again. But Shelley replies, "I'm leaving in a few days, Charlie, I've got nothing to lose if I stand on the bar and tell the entire pub!" Then she tells him to say he's sorry for being such an arrogant, cocky, pig of a man. He thinks that Tracy would never believe her, but Shelley thinks they could call the restaurant, they were there for hours. Charlie then says, "OK, means nothing to me, I'm sorry." Shelley says she didn't hear, and tells him to say it louder. He repeats it. Tracy comes back at that moment and asks what they're talking about, and Shelley tells her that Charlie was just saying sorry for being such a pig to her. "As if!" says Tracy, but Shelley tells Charlie she'll take the drink he offered now. Then she wanders over to the optics and turns back and smiles. Charlie, for once, doesn't look so cocky!

Anne Logan



Friday 14 July

The reporters' pen has been passed around, and the music stopped while I was holding it. So here is my attempt at a programme summary!

Tonight's programme starts with Bev asking Claire if she is ok as she is looking a little uncomfortable. Bev asks Ashley if Claire should go to court with him (to discuss visiting rights for Matt to see Josh). Ashley thinks it would look bad if she didn't go, besides Claire says she wants to go anyway.

A worried Charlie apologises to Shelley. He says he would like to draw a line under things. He warns her that if she did tell Tracy what happened, she would be sorry. Shelley realises that he is worried and says that she will think about it.

Nathan sees Frankie coming back from holiday, in a taxi cab (obviously she thought StreetCars were still not operating!). He tells her that if she had called, he would have picked her up from the airport. (how many garage mechanics can stop work to pick their girlfriend up from the airport?). Frankie says she didn't want to bother him.

Ashley has arrived in court and meets his solicitor. He warns Ashley that it is his last chance to make a decision or the judge will make the decision on his behalf. The solicitor that the judge will give Dr Ramsden contact.

Danny calls Janice in for "staff appraisal". He tells her she has outstayed her welcome at the house, and offers her time off to find alternative accommodation. Later she meets Leanne in the pub and tells her that she has found that her old flat is empty but she has "problems" of a financial nature!

Claire tells Ashley that if he can reach an agreement with Matt, it would be on *his* terms rather than ones imposed on him.

Frankie goes over to Nathan to tell him that she is annoyed that he has redecorated the bedroom, while she was away, without consulting her (he was probably bored of looking at pictures of Brad Pitt !).

The court case begins and Ashley puts his case to the judge. He explains that as soon as the baby was born, Matt cleared off, and didn't return until (the scriptwriters brought him back !) for four years. The judge offers him one final chance for agreement, else she will dictate the terms ….the various parties mutter between them, and Ashley makes an outburst, "once a month for one hour". Everybody looks shocked.

Joanne gets a txt msg (sorry that should be a text message !) from Adam, asking her out

.

Following Ashley's outburst, Matt's barrister suggests two hours every fortnight. Matt has to travel down from Sheffield (a little further north than Manchester), and an hour a month is not worth the journey. Ashley tries to compromise and offers two hours a month.

Shelley goes round to see Tracy. She agonises over whether to say anything to her.

Fred and Bev discuss getting a new barmaid to replace Shelley. Liz comes into the pub and they both have a single thought. Fred asks her, and she is a bit surprised that it is being offered to her without an interview, but takes it with open arms.

Tracy tells Shelley that nothing that she says would put her off Charlie. Shelley tells her that she would not be able to change him. Shelley explains when she went off to the hospital, they were "at it" (ladies and gentlemen as one of our radio presenters refers to it!). Tracy doesn't believe her. However after 30 seconds of consideration Tracy begins to wonder. She asks Shelley why, after all the things she has said about Charlie in the past, she wanted him. Shelley explains that Charlie was saying "things" and it just happened. (Oh yes … her clothes just fell off !). Shelley was just about to leave when Tracy calls her back. She then slaps Shelley's face, just in case she was telling the truth.

Bev notes that Ashley is quiet. Claire says she is not discussing it with him at the moment. She is letting him lick his wounds. They wonder how Josh will react.

Back to the Tracy/Shelley/Charlie triangle (far more exciting), and Tracy tells Charlie that Shelley came round. Tracy asks Charlie to look into her eyes while she asks him a question. She asks him what happened after she went to the hospital. Charlie tries to brush it off by saying they had some drinks and then Shelley tried to come on to him. Tracy tells him that he is "guilty as hell".

Claire asks Ashley if he is going to tell Josh about Matt. He says he will refer to him as an uncle/friend. Claire says lying won't help, It will be like what Ashley's mother told him about Fred. Claire says the truth should come from him and not Matt. Claire leaves Ashley to tell Josh the truth. He starts showing him photos of Mummy, who is now in heaven. Then there is a picture of Ashley and Matt together. Ashley says that we met this man last week, and we are now going to meet him again.

Martin Rosen



Sunday 16 July Episode 6072

Well, I'm doing penance for having such a good time at the North Ronaldsay folk festival by writing up a Sunday episode for a change.

So, it's straight over to where Jason and Charlie are loading or unloading the truck. Jason is in a cheerful mood but Charlie's in no mood to joke. He's seen Tracy and she's smoking. She tells him she's stressed. She can't work out why Shelley would lie. "You've humiliated me, and now it's payback time," Tracy says. Then she dashes over to some strangers and shouts that they'd better watch out or Charlie will bed their girlfriends. Charlie grabs her by the arms and slams her up against a wall. Claire sees them as Tracy manages to shove Charlie away. "What are you looking at, four eyes?" spits Tracy.

In the pub, Fred thinks they're taking in laundry as Shelley is ironing every piece of clothing she's got, though why she's ironing before she packs is beyond me. Do they not have irons in country pubs? Shelley reassures Fred that she's had a lovely time at the pub. She says the only way to go is up. Bev seems very depressed. "I've already lost one daughter. I just don't want to lose another." Shelley gives her a mobile phone.

Claire is trying to get Ashley to open up about the access visit. Suddenly: "Where's my extra daddy?" says Joshua. Ashley is startled. Claire explains that the extra daddy is just someone Josh will see once in a while. Ashley is daddy No 1.

Joanne, apparently wearing only a shirt, tiptoes downstairs at No 1 and opens the door, to find Ken, Deirdre and Blanche all in the kitchen and dining room. Blanche points to a pile of clothing on the dining table, commenting that they must be Joanne's. "I know I don't own any knickers with "hot stuff" written on them." Poor Joanne scoops them up and hastens to add that she and Adam didn't do anything. "But your clothes fell off in the process," purrs Blanche malevolently. "How very unfortunate for you." Joanne turns down Deirdre's offer of breakfast and tries to scurry away. She finally escapes Blanche's sneering and goes. "Blanche, you are outrageous!" Ken scolds. "'Appen I am, but I don't want our Adam hanging around with her sort." What sort? "Common!"

In the street, Fred heads off to Ashley's while Bev goes to the cafe. She tells everyone there that she's throwing a little do for Shelley around three. Steve says he might go. Roy offers food, but that's all organised.

Ashley is playing with Josh in the garden while Fred talks to Claire about how heartwarming it is to see a man playing with his son. Claire needs to sit down and says she's just tired. She doesn't want him to interrupt Ashley and asks for a pot of tea, but as Fred leaves, it's clear she's in some discomfort.

Liz has a new outfit for her first day in the pub. Behind her, on the way to the pub, is Shelley, who has been to the shop. "Hoy!!" blasts a voice from some distance away. "Keep your mucky thoughts to yourself!" Yes, it's Tracy. Shelley is concerned for Tracy, because she's heard Tracy and Charlie had "a bit of a ding dong". Tracy is really venomous and tells Shelley: "You know what really offends me? The fact that he chose you when there are still dogs in the street!" She almost spits out the words.

In the Peacock household, Claire is removing the Sunday roast from the oven when she screams, clutches her back and tells Fred to get Ashley.

At the building yard, Jason just has time to say "So, things not too good on the Tracy front then, eh?" "NO!" the very toad shouts from behind him. She tells Charlie they're going to a leaving do.

Shelley and her pals (Betty, Sean... you know the ones. Actually, they're the staff) are having a fine old time at the party, singing along to old songs, and Shelley invites them all to come and see her new pub. Tracy and Charlie come in and Tracy snogs Charlie, but it's all for show and she breaks away. Danny goes over to chat to Frankie. Twenty years ago today, they got married. Frankie wants to know if he's happy. "I'd be happier with you," he admits. He wants to know why she's drinking on her own, but she says she's waiting for Nathan. He asks if she's happy and she says she's all right. "I'm pleased," Danny says. "Gutted, but pleased." Liz is behind the bar and says she feels like she's come home. Fred arrives with Joshua. "Our Ashley's gone into labour!" he announces. (yes, I did type exactly what he said!)

At t'ospickle the midwife wants to check Claire over, though she says she's fine now.

Back at the pub, Frankie tells Deirdre that Danny is acting really weird. She tells her, Ken, Hayley and Roy what Danny said. Charlie confronts Shelley. "Tracy has a right to know what you're like," Shelley points out. "Well, you knew what I was like and you still came back for more," he says. "You make me sick!" Shelley says, walking away.

Bev follows Shelley into the loo and demands to know whether she slept with Charlie. "I never slept with Charlie, mum, I swear," says Shelley. She says she had a drink and brought Charlie back to the pub. She says she told Tracy that Charlie tried it on with her. "Why would I lie to you?" They leave and behind them a cubicle door opens to reveal.... Tracy!

Frankie and Nathan are having a drink and he comments that she's cheerful. When she tells him it's because she and Danny were able to exchange a civil word, Nathan is less than pleased and she says he's starting to get on her nerves. Bev gives a speech. She says the future for Shelley is going to be much, much rosier. "Fate honours the brave, love." We can tell there is trouble coming by the smirk on Tracy's face. Bev proposes the toast. Shelley has just started her speech when Tracy interrupts. "Do you mind?" asks Shelley. "Yes, I do mind," says Tracy. "I mind your lies. Your twisted little lies." She tells the whole pub what Shelley told her, then says she's just heard Shelley tell her mum that she made it up. "It's not a pub you need. It's a secure unit." Steve mutters to his mother: "Don't set me up with anybody else from now on, please." Deirdre and Ken finally manage to hustle Tracy away and Charlie downs his pint and follows. The whole pub is quiet by now.

Claire is back from the hospital, feeling a bit silly at the false alarm.

The traditional black cab, the only one in Weatherfield, has been hired in to take Shelley away. Violet hugs her and tells her she'll never forget her. Bev comes out and demands a hug, Betty says goodbye, Sean gives Shelley and hug and she's off to Piccadilly station. "See you, Mum. I love you." And waving goodbye to the street, and to Charlie, she's off, in a very strong and determined way!

The End

.

Margaret Carr



Monday 17 July

Has anyone noticed the current weather? Well not in Weatherfield!! Events tonight are written by the ever Peter Whalley writer for the Street since 1979, directed by Tony Prescott and are copyright ITV Productions.

Diggory is putting up shop closed signs as Charlie and Tracy walk past. This is not the first time he has closed down - bakers driven out of business by the supermarkets (and is it just possible that this particular shop is tainted - Sally never made any money with the hardware shop, it was empty for ages and now Diggory - are we going to see a series of other failures over the coming years?).

Tracy chases Charlie down the Street arguing about Shelley. He accepts that Tracy did not believe Shelley and they kiss and make up (well if you trust anyone).

Liz is looking great but Vern has a hangover, so she offers to go and get the van, Steve makes it worse by hitting the hi-hat!

Ashley and Claire are arguing over the forthcoming visit from Dr Ramsden - she reminds him he promised the court - but he wants to deny access to the doctor. Fred, I say Fred, comes downstairs with Joshua and in the presence of his ears Claire takes Ashley outside to continue the discussion. Claire says Ashley should leave Joshua with Matt - but Ashley insists he is going to be present.

Next door Tracy delivers tea to Charlie and Jason. She still wants to move into the house with Charlie - but he wants to sell it for a profit and tells her as much. Tracy's phone goes off - Dreary and Ken want to talk to her - it is important so she agrees.

Bev and Violet are discussing Shelley and her fresh start. Bev refuses to go to lunch with Fred - she cannot let Violet run the Rovers on her own.

Frankie walks down to the garage to see Nathan and says that she wants one wall repainted. They cannot agree and almost part on bad terms when Frankie decides to turn back and invite Nathan to pop over at lunchtime so that she can demonstrate what she means. Nathan agrees.

Liz arrives in the van and shutting the door is stopped by Fred who asks her to provide lunchtime cover for Bev in the Rovers. He explains he wants to cheer up Bev. Liz phones Vern - but Steve answers the phone - the van is there - but he is not fit to go to market. She is all Fred's - the van is not locked.

Ken wants to discuss events in the Rovers - but Tracy doesn't. So was Shelley telling the truth or lying? They bicker. Ken and Dreary want to know what is going on - they are concerned parents. Tracy seeks to re-assure them that all is well especially now the fat cow has gone - and she knows Charlie loves her. They re-assure her they will always be there for her. Dreary does not believe that Charlie loves Tracy - and even Tracy has her doubts I think.

Ashley looking sick awaits Matt who is late. Claire thinks there might have been an emergency. They discuss how the contact session will proceed. Outside Matt climbs out of a Range Rover and is accosted by Audrey who berates him for his downright evil approach - what he is doing is wrong and he should know that. He rings the door bell and Ashley refuses to have him in the house. The door bell rings again and Ashley goes to the front door. Ashley tells Matt that he does not want Joshua upset and no talk about "fathers". Ashley allows Matt in. Joshua speaks - his second daddy - Ashley tells him to say hello. Ashley says that Matt will be coming from time to time. Matt offers to take Joshua out but both Claire and Ashley say that would not be good. Claire says they are only doing this because of the court. Joshua brings down a book. Ashley and Claire retreat to the garden and watch and listen as Matt reads a story. Claire is proud of Ashley and she feels a bit off - so she goes for a lie down for 10 minutes.

Diggory delivers surplus bread to the Rovers and he receives a free drink.

Ken and Dreary discuss the Charlie and Tracy situation - which Violet overhears - they ask Violet what happen - but she does not tell the truth which she knows. Eventually they agree to do nothing unless Tracy asks for help. They are worrying themselves sick about her.

Tracy arrives at Charlie's house and lies over why Dreary wanted to see her. Fish and chips lunch is delivered. Tracy once again asks Charlie about living in the house. He says No.

Vern arrives in the Rovers to ask Liz where she left the van. Outside the corner shop, almost as close as possible to their front door - he must have walked past it on his way over. It is not there - unless it has been moved. She accuses him of not being sober.

Also in the Rovers Tyrone and Nathan are enjoying lunch when Frankie comes in and reminds Nathan that he was supposed to visit her bedroom at lunchtime. Nathan wanted a quiet lunchtime and then apologises to Tyrone - who points out that it was the former's idea to go to the Rovers.

Van returns - the vern has definitely gone (or something like that). He is not joking - she follows him outside - no van. All the records are gone - all the stock. She must have left the van open.

Matt is about to depart and is saying his good byes to Joshua when Claire appears on the stairs - this time she has started and her waters have broken. Ashley helps her downstairs and she is breathing - and it is not long between contractions - every 2 - 3 minutes. Matt offers to take a look but Ashley warns him off and phones for an ambulance.

Tracy and Steve discuss moving into the house. Steve says Tracy is always right - at least she thinks so. Tracy latches onto this and decides that she can use the situation - she will never believe Charlie's story about Shelley until he allows them to live in the house! A huge smile crosses her face. Brilliant.

At the Peacocks Ashley tells Matt to get lost. Claire appeals for Matt's help and given the pain she appears to be suffering - the episode ends.

Part 2

Original transcript appears to have gone missing so here is the news from the Street.

After all the tantrums Matt delivers the new Peacock into the world. Nice try Matt but as Ashley observes later thanks - but it changes nothing.

Tracy keeps trying to convince Charlie that they should move into the house. At what seems like the millionth attempt, in this episode alone, let alone previous ones, he gives way. Jason cannot believe his ears. Ah well as Charlie explains, once Tracy has departed the scene it all makes sense. If you sell a house you live in it counts as your principal residence and therefore does not attract Capital Gains Tax. If he just sold it he would be liable for the tax on the increased value (and he did get it cheap). So Charlie has achieved double bubble - tax elimination and a happy Tracy. So happy in fact that she drags Ken and Dreary round the new gaff to show off where she and Charlie and the baby will be living!

Anyway Diggory is off to South Manchester - apparently people down there prefer to spend their brass rather than hang onto it. Later Diggory asks Roy the secret of his success - a happy loving partner perhaps? Diggory admits no success in that department (perhaps Roy bribes the scriptwriters to eliminate the competition - I wonder if Diggory thought of that?)

The ambulance driver notes that baby peacock is the spitting image of his father - which cheers up Ashley, no doubts about this one then. Mother and baby are hospital bound as the baby is three weeks early. Frankie and Maria are the first Street residents to oooh and aaah over baby Peacock - so with a bit of luck he will fancy good looking women when he grows up.

Vernon tells Liz the van was insured and the stock. So the only real loss was a particular record. Apparently some particular Northern Soul classic on the original promo label. Liz is pretty upset that Vernon has lost something so important to him.

Nathan and Tyrone are also in the Rovers with the former unhappy again with Frankie, and the muppet Danny Baldwin. Nathan reckons the whole family have problems and he does not want to be part of it. Eventually Nathan regrets his earlier refusal to see Frankie at lunchtime, tells Tyrone he wants to get finished and go over and see her.

In the Street Danny (the muppet) runs into Frankie who has photos of Warren in Spain. They row, but almost make up almost immediately and go indoors to look at the pictures. Are you surprised when Nathan walks in on the happy couple. No let me try that again. Are you surprised when Nathan walks in on the divorced couple looking through the photos together? As Nathan walks back out again Danny wonders if he had got the wrong impression. Frankie assures Danny she will put him straight later (Frankie you can pop round and try that on me sometime).

In a mad moment Steve allows Liz to talk him into considering employing Vernon as a driver (seeing that Vernon appears to have another full time job driving red London buses and upsetting Jane Hall elsewhere this week I think he might be a tad stretched).

And Chris has talked Maria into applying for a job in a town centre upmarket salon (seeing that Cutting It has disappeared I thought all those places had closed down, they should never have killed off Sarah Parrish). She tells Tyrone and they are at least talking to each other again.

Fred and Bev return. They are at a loss to find Matt present and everyone else gone until Matt explains. Bev stays to look after Joshua and Fred heads of to the hospital, I say the hospital. When Fred arrives Claire is resting and Ashley says they can go down and look at the baby in the incubator, providing Fred does not shout at him. Fred asks why Ashley said that - as Ashley observes because he shouts at everyone, I say everyone. Outside the incubator Fred does not bellow his usual "Alloo little baby" and they both look fondly at the child - they are both delighted and as Fred observes Ashley is a richer man than Matt will ever be.

Sorry about being late and I hope there are not too many details missing. Thanks tonight particularly go to Mike & Tracy for the excellent service they provide through csvu and the ITV updates.

K Richard W



Wednesday 19 July

As we all continue to wilt in the heat, and drape ourselves, hot and sweating over the furniture, the residents of Weatherfield continue their day to day lives without so much as a murmur of complaint or a sweaty brow or armpit in sight.

We open out in the Street where Fred is fixing something (presumably a baby seat, although we never get a clear look) in the back of his car. Ashley comes out and reminds him that the baby isn't ready to come home yet, but Fred is hopeful. Liz comes by and says how exciting it all is and sends her best wishes via Ashley.

In the Baldwin residence, Frankie asks Nathan if he has any objections to her getting copies of the photos of Warren for Danny. Nathan, munching on a bowl of cereal, says it's none of his business. Frankie then looks for milk for her coffee there is none left, Nathan has just used the last of it. An argument then breaks out between them, and Nathan goes off to get some, despite Frankie telling him not to bother.

Outside, Danny and Leanne are just getting out of their car when Nathan storms out of the front door and marches into the corner shop. A moment or two later, Frankie comes out and starts to walk towards the cafe. Nathan appears clutching milk – but Frankie doesn't want any now, she's off to work, she'll get a coffee there. All this is observed with great delight by Danny, who then starts to scurry after her. "Morning," he says as he catches up to her, and tells her he's off to get a coffee from Roy's. "If coffee ain't a dirty word," he smirks as they cross the road.

At the Barlow's, Joanne has obviously spent the night with Adam, and is rushing to get to work. Blanche catches up with the two of them at the foot of the stairs and tells them it would be nice if they could spend a little time downstairs occasionally, socializing with the rest of the family. Adam grins, and puts his arm round his gran's shoulders, and charms her into making him a cup of tea.

Grinning broadly, and looking like the cat that got the cream, Danny walks down the street with two coffees in polystyrene cups. As Adam and Joanne kiss each other goodbye on the doorstep, Liz arrives at the taxi firm with bacon barms for Lloyd and Steve. It seems it's a form of bribery to get them to take Vernon on as a driver, but Steve says she needn't have bothered, they've taken him on already. "He'll be so chuffed!" squeals Liz. (Err, I don't think so, doesn't she know his attitude to work by now?)

Claire's mum arrives at the hospital to see her. Claire tells her she's waiting for Ashley to come and take her home as soon as the hospital give her the all clear, although she doesn't really want to go without the baby.

Vernon is having a great time watching the tv when Liz arrives at the flat to break the exciting news. She's got him a job! He's less than delighted, but he can't get out of it.

At the factory, Joanne walks in yawning, as Hayley takes a call from a customer who wants to deal with Leanne, and not ‘the Cockney'. "Charming!" remarks Danny.

Ashley and Fred are busy putting up balloons to welcome the new baby home. Ashley is still a little bitter about the fact that the baby was brought into the world by Matt Ramsden, but Fred tells him that without ‘that tall streak of rainwater' they might not be hanging up all the decorations today. Bev arrives, and they all go off to get Claire.

In the cafe, Liz is talking to Roy about Vernon's stolen records, the rare one by Gene Chandler in particular. She asks him to try and get her a copy for Vernon. "Just do your best," she tells him, "even this new job hasn't made him feel any better."

Frankie puts a cup of coffee down in front of Danny, who's sitting reading the paper. His phone rings at that moment and he answers it, telling Leanne he's just stepped out of a meeting and is on his way to the car. Frankie watches him and comments that it's strange watching him do that to someone else. "You've got to feel you're getting away with something, haven't you?" she says. He tells her that she knows him better than he knows himself.

In the salon, Blanche is having her hair done and moaning about Joanne staying over with Adam. "It used to be there were those you took home and those you practised on," she says, "these days there doesn't seem to be any difference." Maria is fiddling about with Fiz's hair when her new boyfriend arrives and asks if she's free for lunch. She tells him she'll be free in half an hour. "If you can sort that lot out in half an hour you can come and untangle the wires behind my tv," he says, looking at Fiz's frizzy mop. "Is that meant to be funny?" asks Fiz, glaring at him.

Back at Roy's, Frankie is telling Eileen how she just wants to keep starting rows with Nathan. Everything he does irritates her now. "Can't go on like this," she says.

Fred's car pulls up, Claire has arrived home. She's greeted in the street by Roy and Hayley and Frankie and Eileen as she is ushered inside.

As they walk off, Frankie thanks Eileen for listening to her and says she's helped her see sense. She walks across the road to where Nathan is working on a car. However, he has to go on a pickup run, so she tells him she'll see him later.

In the pub, Maria's boyfriend is talking to Kirk, obviously very disdainful of Kirk's job in the kennels. Maria comes in, worried about the interview that Chris has arranged for her in his friend's smart salon in town.

Audrey has visited the Peacocks with a present for the baby. Bev sees the way Audrey looks at Fred, and pointedly remarks that it's good of her to visit, she must be so busy at the salon, and then insists on being the one to show her out.

Nathan arrives back at Frankie's to a rather cool reception, she tells him that it isn't working and she doesn't want to go on.

In the Rovers, Vernon is talking to Steve about the possibility of being refused a taxi driver's licence. "They gave Les one," says Steve, "so you'd have to try really hard to fail." Liz takes Lloyd to one side to ask about the rare record. He's found one but will cost her about a hundred quid. She tells him to get it, it'll be worth it to put a smile on Vernon's face.

Danny, Leanne and Janice are sitting at a table, and Leanne is delighted at the way she's getting into the business.

Frankie and Nathan are still picking over the bones of their doomed relationship. He reckons he was just a trophy for her to show to Danny that she could still pull. After a few harsh words he goes off to pack.

Maria and Chris are walking along and bump into Fiz and Kirk who are carrying pizza and beer. Maria is dismayed that she and Chris won't have the flat to themselves after all, so he suggests they go out for something to eat instead. She says that as soon as she gets the new job in town, she's going to get her own place. "I'm sure I could find you something better than that dump you're in now," he tells her.

Nathan storms out of Frankie's door as Danny is passing. "Called you, has she?" he snarls at Danny. Danny, of course, doesn't know what he's talking about, but obviously has a pretty good idea. Milking the situation, he tells Nathan he was too good an act for him to follow. Wham! Nathan punches him and Danny falls to the ground. As Nathan storms off down the street, Danny lies there laughing – "Yes!!" he shouts!

Anne Logan



Friday 21 July

Welcome to another Friday episode.

As the girls trudge wearily to work, Kevin is going on about Nathan not being at work. Danny arrives and seems in a particularly good mood as he lets his workers into the factory.

Liz is looking for Lloyd, still seeking a replacement Gene Chandler record. Instead, she finds Maria, who is all dressed up because she's off to a job interview. Liz and Steve promise not to tell Audrey.

In the factory, Leanne accuses Danny of fidgeting. He claims it's just because it's such a nice day and why doesn't Leanne take Janice shopping later on. Leanne suddenly thinks Danny's trying to get rid of her because he's something planned. Danny, surprisingly, volunteers to go and get the cake order from Roy's.

Kevin's on the phone to Nathan. It seems he's left. Frankie's thrown him out so he wants his wages and a reference. Kevin is not happy.

Ashley, Claire and Fred are gazing through a window at the baby. Fred thinks he's the spit of him, but Ashley points out that all babies look like old men. The nurse/midwife, who seems to be on duty all the time, tells them the baby's doing well and even offers to let Claire pick him up. Claire's almost too scared to hold her child but then she is and Ashley looks proudly at the two of them.

Danny, who overheard, Kevin going on about Nathan, is in the cafe, making smart remarks to Frankie about it. But she feels a sudden urge to go on her break.

Danny chases Deirdre out of the cafe, making small talk about how the family is. Then he asks her how long Frankie has wanted him back. Deirdre hasn't noticed and thinks Danny's deluding himself. He'll just have to ask her himself.

Liz is admiring the record. Steve is appalled that it's costing her £100, but she says it's worth every penny because it was her fault the van was nicked. She plans to nip home at dinnertime and hide it. She trots off and Steve asks Lloyd how much it was really. Lloyd says he only added on a tenner.

In the Rovers, Maria is talking to Chris, who says she's got a one in five chance of getting the new job. "You tried your best, anyway," he says. Jamie, Bev and Violet are discussing the fact that Danny is already "sniffing around" Frankie. Maria gets a call turning her down for the job. Chris is so sneering about the whole business and turns up his nose when he hears she lost out to someone from Chorlton. He tells Maria maybe she should stay where she is. Maria tells him this isn't her first job. She was a kennel maid for years. He seems to think that's both very funny and very low class. He tells Maria she's got no experience in applying for "proper jobs" then leaves, telling her they'll talk later. Maria looks as if her eyes have been suddenly opened.

In the factory, Leanne and Janice are having a heart-to-heart in the [new set alert!] toilets. Leanne thinks Danny might be up to something. But she's thrilled. Last time Danny carried on like this, she got her engagement ring. Leanne goes back into the office to find that Danny has done her work so she can go off for the afternoon. She asks if she might have a surprise coming her way. "You could indeed," he says.

Maria is in the salon sending texts. She's upset and Sarah doesn't help, accusing her of skiving. Audrey shoos Sarah off to the Rovers for ten minutes and asks Maria what's wrong. She says she's just dumped Chris. "By text?" Yep. Maria says Chris thinks she's rubbish and admits she applied for the other job and didn't get it. "He reckons I should be working somewhere better." Audrey says she would have done the same at Maria's age. "I'll give you a first-rate reference any time you want one."

Claire and Ashley are in the pub getting lots of congratulations. Jamie is annoyed that Danny is waiting for Frankie to finish work. Danny congratulates the Peacocks and then leaves.

In the flat, Liz is hiding the new record when, oops, she finds another just like it. "You lying little toerag," she says.

Maria is sitting outside the salon when Sarah asks if she's okay. She says she is. Sarah tells her she doesn't like her lying to her gran. Maria's still looking after her when Tyrone comes along and asks if she's all right. "Oh, Tyrone, I've had such a bad day." She tells him about it and Tyrone asks if she'll come for a drink.

Vernon is trying to make excuses. "You lied to me. You made me feel really terrible," Liz says accusingly. She points out that he went on and on about how rare it was an how expensive. She paid £100. "You were robbed. You can get them for eighty..." Vernon stops as he realises he's digging a big hole. Liz snaps his copy in half. She says there's still the one she got him. He can listen to that any time he wants. But now that it's more rare, it'll cost him £200.

Maria and Tyrone are chatting. She says she always liked Tyrone because he never bears grudges. "I wish we'd never split up, I really do." "Maria!" Ty is shocked. "You might have moved on, Tyrone, but I've not," she says. "You're the one that I love. You always will be." She's interrupted when Molly shouts over at Tyrone from the bar. Then Maria continues. "No-one will ever mean as much to me as you do." "Look," says Tyrone. "I've got to go." He rushes up to stand with Molly, saying he fancies a change. They leave.

Frankie finishes in the cafe and Danny is waiting outside. He says all he wants to do is make her happy. "You know I love you." She asks after Leanne. "I don't know and I don't care." He starts to plead with her. "Why would I be bothered with her when I could have you?" he asks. "Take me back. I love you. There's no-one else and nothing else. Please." Frankie asks why it would be any different this time. She shuts the door in his face

.

The End
Margaret Carr



Sunday 23 July

It is my sad duty to inform you that although I was charged with writing the report for this programme – I missed the first couple of minutes. It was because it was the pnultemate err .. pinultimate …err …. last but one edition of Top of the Pops on the other channel. I mean I wanted to know if the last record I bought, by The Beatles, had made it to no.1 yet?!

Anyway, let us look at what happened from 7.32pm onwards!

As I joined it Tyrone was chatting to Molly at the garage. He said he couldn't chat because Kevin is cracking the whip since Nathan left.

Danny takes the morning newspaper round to Frankie ! Jamie sees him coming back, but Danny is pleased to tell him that she didn't slam the door in his face this time.

Meanwhile Ashley is in the street, very excited. He has just heard that baby Peacock is able to come home from hospital today.

Maria is talking with Fizz in the Rovers. She says that Tyrone is the only man to have made her really happy.

Kevin tells Ty that he thinks that Maria is on the rebound, and he shouldn't pay too much attention to her.

Everyone in the street now stops work and go out to see Ashley and Claire bring their baby home.

Janice goes into the pub, and sees Danny in there on his own. She asks him if he has been stood up. He responds "looks like it" and goes out.

Maria, excitedly tells Fizz that she has just had a text message from Tyrone. He wants to see her urgently

.

Ty and Maria are chatting away in Roy's café about old times. She says that she considered him to be always special. Ty tells her that he is just her ‘plan B', although she may not realise it. He says he still wants to be friends with her. After Tyrone goes, Maria turns to Frankie who is tidying up, and says to her that she must have heard them. Frankie says it is none of her business.

Those people in the Street that have nothing better to do than go "coo, coo, coo" and "ga ga ga" at baby Peacock are at the house discussing baby names. The suggestion of "Sue" comes up (as in the Johnny Cash song ‘A boy named Sue'), so that he would be a fighter. It is immediately dismissed.

Over at the Baldwins, Danny tells Leanne that he has woken up. He tells her that it is all over between them. He wants her to move out. Lea thinks that she and Danny need a holiday. She wasn't aware there was a problem between them. She wants to know what has changed ? Danny says it is him that has changed and that he is no longer in love with her.

Vernon comes into Liz's house. He says he has got no money but he will cook her a meal tonight. He says he has withdrawn his insurance claim for the missing record (I think I may have the record as well …although not the demo copy !). He said he has had nightmares about Liz leaving him (I bet, he knows when he is onto a good thing !).

Back with Danny and Leanne, and he tells her that they were never going to be Burton and Taylor, and it has just been a laugh.

Ty meets up with Molly. He says he loves her and kisses her in the street. Maria, jealously observes from the window of the salon. (Thought: now that Diggory has packed up his shop, where is Molly living?)

Danny is still trying to convince Lea that they weren't really in love. She then asks him about Mike. She helped him get his money. She says that she is going out. Danny is worried that she may jump into the canal, but she says she is only going for a walk.

Fiz tells Maria that she will get over Tyrone. She thinks, perhaps she will go away.

Leanne walks into Jamie's crying and sobbing. He tells him that Danny has chucked her

.

Right there we go – I am now going to throw my body to the sun … Standby for a blackout!!!

Martin Rosen



Monday 24 July

Right a little late thanks to the antics in the Big Brother House. Antics in the Street meanwhile centre around Leanne, Danny and Frankie.

Leanne is sleeping at Janice's on the sofa and is not in a good mood - after all she has no money, no home, no job, no fiance - ahh that might explain it. Anyway Leanne is promising revenge.

Outside Danny is arriving for work and the line up Sean, Fiz and Hayley awaits - as Danny says he always wondered what happened to Bananarama!! Hayley asks after Leanne - Danny replies that she is ill this morning so the supergossips are in action - morning sickness always equates with pregnancy!

Audrey is ill and four keys for the salon is five too many for Sarah who gives them to Maria to open up. And then Sarah starts thinking about the wedding and flounces off. She finds Jason and starts hassling him about a date for the wedding. Charlie is fed up with the constant interruptions and threatens to apply bricks to either side of Jason's groin.

Summer holidays so Sophie is given Sal's mobile phone and told to phone if anything happens - what like aliens landing in the back yard she retorts (good girl), as well as criticising her mother's dress sense! Anyway fun awaits - Chesney is heading along the Street the other way! Anyway no good going to the Battersbys - Les is in his underpants waiting for something called Jeremy Kyle which I assume is a daytime TV programme with saddos and lowlifes - Les loves it - he cannot believe such people exist! Anyway later on they are obviously bored and do not know what to do next. Chesney suggests phoning his mate Cameron who is always a good laugh and Sophie hands over the phone.

Claire is in overdrive, constantly cleaning and cooking and preparing for the health visitor's visit. When she arrives there are plates of sandwiches and fancies. The health visitor is amazed - normally there are piles of dirty nappies she says - just be sure you do not overdo it - Claire can hardly believe her ears at this suggestion (but we do don't we boys and girls). As Ashley sees her out Claire goes into overdrive cleaning up the "mess".

Leanne arrives at the factory looking - well pregnant (oh sorry the camera angle does not show this). Sean asks if she is feeling better now and Leanne snaps back that she has never felt better and storms into the office. Danny says he cannot have her working there - it is over. Anyway he will give her compensation - how does five grand sound? She reckons the escort rate for 12 months is over £5k - he retorts by pointing to her finger and saying that rock did not fall out of the sky now did it? She reckons he sees it as just another deal and runs out. Janice follows her and Leanne tells her what happened. She may be a gold digger - but not a cut price one with Mike's will safely hidden. A little later Leanne phones Danny (who is hiding behind the blinds) and asks him to come round to Janice's flat.

Tracy had been hounding Charlie over the house - so he tells her to get on with the decorating - he needs to earn some money. Whilst painting she hears a noise at the back door and being concerned when Charlie does not answer her calls she decides to lock it for security. Later she asks Charlie about his leaving the door unlocked - which he denies.

Hayley has produced a baby suit with big ears for the new Peacock and Claire is so delighted at the present she invites the Croppers round for tea and launches into another round of cooking and preparation - she reckons it will be fun; Ashley is less sure - this is Roy Cropper we are talking about.

When Cameron turns up Sophie appears to take an instant dislike to him, although she would rather like to wrestle him to the ground and tear his clothes off him, sadly her acting ability does not quite convey the right nuances just yet. Sal phones to check she is alright (as if - in front of her friends 'n' all). Call ended Cameron takes the phone and decides to have some fun.

At Janice's Danny arrives and he offers Leanne the cheque again. She launches into Chris Tarrant mode - we don't want to give you that yet and the stakes will get a lot higher before the game ends. She offers him some lifelines - was it the only photocopy she gave him of Mike's will or perhaps a copy of the original which she has still got? Danny realises that perhaps this is not easy. Danny blusters, denies the will is worth anything - but Leanne reminds him of their trip to Spain and the villa looking for it. Anyway she wants fifty grand by tomorrow o Adam gets the will (Leanne love - get the money then give Adam the will anyway - that would be real revenge).

Charlie gets Jason to admit that whilst he wants to marry Sarah it is all a bit soon - 18 months time would be better once they have some money. He does this in a joking way - unaware that Sarah is listening to every word - Charlie knows Sarah is there. She runs off, Jason catches up with her - he just wants a bit of freedom before settling down. As Sarah says he can have all the freedom he wants - it is over.

See you all next week.
K Richard W

Oh, they really should make school holidays illegal! Instead of setting about some healthy outdoor activity, like playing cricket with a kerosene tin as wicket or climbing trees, Sophie, Chesney and Cameron are playing the technological age's version of sticking a coin to the pavement to watch people trying to pick it up. They're waiting until they see someone who is in Sally's mobile phonebook and calling them. Of course, that doesn't work with Danny, who doesn't even notice his phone is ringing. But they get some amusement from watching Rita trying to find her phone in the bottom of her handbag. Of course, by the time she fishes it out, it stops ringing. Ah, well, you know what they say about small minds.

Danny arrives back at work and abruptly tells "Hayles" that she's in charge and if he's not back by the end of the day she should just lock up for him.

Claire is still in her good housewife and mother frenzy and plans to prepare a finger buffet for Roy and Hayley when they come round to see the baby. We also learn that the baby has a nickname, if not a real name. He's called "Fireman Sam" for fairly obvious reasons that resulted in Ashley having a wet sleeve!

Danny, meanwhile, is back at the flat, going through every bit of paper, presumably in a search for the original of Mike's will.

At the builders' yard, Jason is annoyed with Charlie, who reckons he did Jason a favour because he doesn't really want to marry Sarah anyway. Jason says he does -- just not yet. Charlie tells him not to grovel but to wait for Sarah to come to him.

Tracy is at the house and finds an empty soft drink can in the bin. She heads for the front door with it.

Danny, in a foul mood, is back at the factory. He tells the workers they've been slacking, despite Hayley's protests that they haven't, and tells them he's sick of the sight of them and they should go home. Do they need telling twice? Of course not. He tells Janice he wants a word with her before she goes. What he actually wants is to try to bribe her to tell him where the will is stashed. He offers a thousand pounds, with another thousand on top when he gets the will in his hands. Then he ups that to three grand. Janice says he's wrong if he thinks he can buy anybody. "I wouldn't sell our Leanne down the river, not at any price!" she says. "You keep hold of your money Mr Baldwin. You never know when you might need it."

In the Rovers, Rita apologises to Sally for not answering her call earlier on. She calls up the list of missed calls and there's Sally's name, right enough. Sally looks puzzled, but you can see she's working out what really happened. In a booth, Leanne tells Janice that she's demanded Danny pay her £50,000. An indignant Janice says he only offered her three. They don't know that Danny has come in the door and is standing directly behind them, listening. Leanne thinks Danny has no option but to pay up or lose out, but Janice warns her to be careful. "He's a crafty beggar, Baldwin," she says. "I wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of him. And he didn't get that factory by accident." "I was the one who helped him get it," Leanne reminds her. "He might not want me but he still owes me and this is payback time!" Behind them, Danny heads off out the door.

Outside the salon, Sarah tells her mother that it's all over with Jason. Gail doesn't believe this for a minute. "You and him have been on and off again more times than the light in Eileen Grimshaw's fridge!" She tells Sarah that maybe Jason is being the sensible one because they're both very young to get married. Sarah, though, has convinced herself that Jason never wanted to marry her at all and only proposed so she'd get back with him.

The baby is in his Hayley-made puppy outfit and the table is piled high with food when Roy and Hayley arrive. Hayley thinks the baby is the image of Ashley, prompting Roy to explain that there's an evolutionary reason for the strong physical resemblance to the father. . . He trails off as he realises the implications of this for Ashley and Joshua.

Jason is still moping and, despite denying it to Charlie, we know he's been texting Sarah. Charlie is delivering another "make them suffer, play hard to get" lecture when Tracy turns up, accusing him of sneaking into the house to check up on her. He denies it and she produces the drink can as evidence. Charlie treats it all as a joke and tells her the paint fumes have been getting at her.

Danny has more skills than we realised. He stops outside Janice's flat door, slips his credit card into the lock and is inside very quickly. (We were once burgled by someone who used this method and, as the nice police lady showed us, it's very effective and very quick -- get a deadlock!)

In the pub, Sean is still sure that Leanne is pregnant, even though Janice has said otherwise. He's basing his theory on her throwing up and being all over the place emotionally. "If that's the symptoms, you're pregnant most Saturday nights, then," Fiz points out. Violet points out that Leanne has been downing glasses of wine since she came in, but Sean puts that down to her being a Battersby. "They start bottle feeding in the womb."

While they chat, Danny is busy going through Janice's flat, hunting for the will.

Hayley and Roy are leaving, with Hayley making apologies for a rant we didn't hear in which he bemoaned the loss of old English and Norse names. "If we are to roll back the tide of Jordans and Kyles we have to protect our heritage!" he says. (Here in Orkney, Norse names are still used a lot -- Magnus, Sigurd, Erlend and others are quite common).

When Ashley goes inside again, he finds Claire head down, scrubbing cranberry juice off the carpet where Roy spilled it. Ashley says he thinks she's amazing, but tells her to go and have a nap. She says she can't, because there's washing up to be done, the floor to sweep, rubbish to be taken out. Ashley tells her to have a bath and he'll do all that work. "I knew there was a reason I had your baby," she smiles at him. She says she'll have a bath and go to bed and he should join her when he's done. Ashley looks decidedly happier at that, but Claire says: "I admire your optimism, Ashley, but I'll be going straight to sleep."

Leanne and Janice arrive at Janice's and notice they've apparently been burgled. But Janice rushes to check on her rent money and it's still all there. Leanne has a pretty good idea what's happened, though.

Sophie arrives home and the first thing Sally does, instead of questioning her about why there is a boy who is a complete stranger with her, is ask why she's been making calls to Sally's friends. Sophie denies it, but Sally grabs the phone and sees that 16 calls have apparently been made by the phone all on its own. The strange lad interrupts, telling her that if the phone's circuits got damaged it could make calls on its own. Sally demands to know who he is and Cameron introduces himself very politely, with a handshake. Sally gets rid of Cameron and Chesney, but Sophie asks if Cameron's going to be at Chesney's birthday on Wednesday. He might be. A suddenly glum Chesney watches him go and accuses Sophie of fancying him. "No, I don't even like him. He's far too cocky," Sophie says, but Ches obviously doesn't believe her.

Out in the street, Tracy is still going on about the drink can and then sees the light is upstairs in the house. Charlie thinks it just means she forgot to turn it off. He says he'll go to turn it off and sends her to the pub to get in the drinks while he does it.

Gail and Eileen might be enemies, but I enjoy their occasional mothers-in-arms conversations. Gail asks if Eileen's heard the news about the wedding being off. "It's no skin off my nose, but they shouldn't be messing around the Archbishop of Canterbury like this," Eileen snorts. Sarah told her mum the wedding is off for good, but Jason told his it was just another storm in a teacup and would blow over. Gail says she hopes Sarah is right. "So do I," admits Eileen, "but somehow I don't think we are going to be that lucky." Charlie comes in and jokes to Tracy that he found a whole gang in there and has to go back to bury the bodies. She doesn't think it's funny and insists she didn't leave the light on.

Danny is sitting in the middle of the mess he made searching his own place for the will when Leanne walks in. "What sort of fool do you take me for, Danny?" she asks. "First you assume I'd roll over for five grand and then you think I'd keep a copy of the will and leave it somewhere you might find it?" Danny admits she's right. He says he'll pay up but there will be conditions. Leanne stops him. The price has doubled since he broke into Janice's flat. Now she wants £100,000. "You've run out of options now, Danny. Nowhere else to search. Nowhere else to ransack." Danny tells her that if he pays up, he wants an end to it. He wants every copy of the will and he wants her gone. He tells her he'll pay the hundred grand, but it will be £50,000 down and the other half in 12 months' time if she's kept her trap shut. He'll write her a cheque only because he's run out of options. "I know you have," smirks Leanne. "And anyway, I'm going to be here to watch your every move."

The End
Margaret Carr



Wednesday 26 July

Leanne is eating her breakfast toast when Danny comes in and tells her that he doesn't want her sponging off him any more, she's had her pound of flesh and now she can disappear. She says she'll go when the cheque has cleared. He asks if she really thinks he would write her a bent cheque, with the hold she has over him. She says it wouldn't be the first time he's conned people out of his money, and he retorts that she pushed him into it. "All I pushed at was an open door," she says. He tells her to get lost and warns her that nothing from the flat had better go missing. "Oh what, little mementoes of our time together?" she snaps, "I'd rather die than be reminded of you!" Danny walks out, saying that nothing's stopping her. Leanne is left alone with a look of regret on her face.

It's moving day for Tracy and Charlie, and she as she takes the last box off the back of his truck, Charlie announces that he's off to do a small job. Tracy is dismayed. "How long are you going to be? There's all Amy's stuff to bring round yet," she moans. He assures her he's only going to be a couple of hours.

Danny arrives for work and has he gets out of his car he spots Frankie coming out of her front door. They exchange quite a sweet smile.

In the Grimshaw's, Sean is with Jason, going over exactly what happened between him and Sarah, while Eileen busies herself with the breakfast things. Sean wonders, as Jason is pretending not to care about Sarah, how that is going to get her back. Jason reckons it is all mind games. "It seems to me," says Sean, "that the only way you're going to get her back is to show her how much you love her." Jason is adamant that women don't like that. "Women like to feel loved," says Sean. "Women like to feel that the man is in control," says Jason, and is convinced that Sarah will soon come to her senses. Eileen says that Jason is doing the right thing, because if he carries on like this he's guaranteed to lose her for good, which would be the best thing for both of them.

Sally finds Sophie in the corner shop looking at birthday cards for Chesney. Sally reveals to Rita and Norris that Sophie is interested in Cameron, Chesney's friend. Mortified, Sophie tells her mum to shut up, get her boiled sweets and leave. Rita wonders if Cameron will be at Chesney's party, and Norris comments that when he was a boy it was single sex parties only. They weren't allowed to mix until they were sixteen. "And look where it's got you," says Rita, dryly. "You go on as if I'm going to an orgy," says Sophie,(and Sally immediately wants to know where she's heard that word!) "it's a barbeque in Chesney's back yard." Norris tells her they'd better keep the noise down or there'll be trouble.

Alone in her new house, Tracy hears strange noises coming from upstairs. She runs out of the house in fright.

Jamie goes into the café and tells Frankie that he's heard gossip that Leanne is pregnant. Frankie is stunned. "He was swearing his undying love to me last week," she says.

A panic stricken Tracy finds Charlie loading their bed onto the back of his truck outside the flat. She tells him about the noises that she heard upstairs and he asks if she went up to have a look. "Must be the ghost of Tommy Harris," smirks Charlie. "Don't forget Katie," quips Jason and they laugh. Tracy is not amused. "I'm not going back there till we sort this out," she says, and telling Charlie to come now, runs back to the house!

Danny is passing the café and sees Frankie in the doorway. "All right Frank?" he says, and tells her he'll be in the Rovers later if she fancies a drink. She just glares at him and shuts the door.

Claire takes the new baby into the Kabin. Rita and Maria coo over the baby as Claire tells them he still hasn't got a name. Rita tells Norris he should congratulate Claire, but he can't see that it's necessary, there's no skill in having a child! Claire tells them that Ashley has gone back to work and she's coping fine with looking after the two children, she already took Josh to nursery straight after breakfast.

Charlie and Jason have been investigating the noises at the house. They come downstairs carrying pizza boxes and a beer can. It seems they have a squatter. Tracy starts to shriek that squatters have rights, but Charlie tells her to calm down. He tells Jason to keep watch while he goes off to get the rest of their stuff.

Fizz meets Maria and asks if she's serious about moving out. Maria says she has to move on, and she's sorry if this is a bad time to leave Fizz with all the responsibility for the flat.

Jamie sees Leanne walking down the street. "Congratulations!" he says, through the van window. Leanne soon puts him straight as far as the pregnancy rumour goes. "I'd rather top meself than have his kids," she says. She tells Jamie they split up a few days ago. "You always told me he'd let me down, didn't you," she says, wearily. "Another woman was it?" he asks. Leanne doesn't give the question a straight answer, she just tells him it's his chance to gloat. He asks if it's anyone he knows, but she tells him he'd have heard by now if it was. Just then Frankie comes around the corner and Leanne walks off. Jamie gets out of the van to talk to Frankie. "So when's it due then, did she say?" asks Frankie.

Jason walks into the salon and asks to speak to Sarah, who's putting the curling tongs through Cilla's unruly mop. She ignores him completely, and then goes off to the toilet. Jason leaves, telling Maria he's not worried, she'll come running. "Yeah, course she will," says Maria.

Danny meets Frankie coming out of the Kabin. She smiles and apologises for this morning. "Oh, I haven't done anything then, apart from being the lowest of the low?" he says. "No, apart from that," she agrees. He asks her to meet him in the Rovers for a drink later and eventually she agrees.

Claire has taken the baby round to the taxi office. She tells Steve she wants to come back to work as soon as she can. "You're not serious?" asks Eileen, but Claire assures her that once the baby has a routine no one will stop her.

Charlie and Jason are staking out the house. They sit down on the floor where they can't been seen from the door, and wait.

In the Battersby back yard, Les has the barbeque well under way, with thick smoke billowing out and the Quo blaring out of the cd player. As Cilla sits in a deckchair sipping a drink through a straw, Chesney opens his present. It's a box of fireworks. "Where did you get them at this time of year?" he asks, but Les just tells him not to let them all off at once. Ches then tells Sophie he's not sure Cameron can come, and she looks really disappointed but tells Chesney she's not bothered anyway. Fizz and Kirk arrive next, and give the birthday boy another large box. "It's not more fireworks is it?" asks Chesney. Just then Cameron arrives and Sophie immediately sits up and takes notice.

At Charlie's house, the door opens and a figure wearing a hoodie comes in. As he walks across the room Charlie lunges at him and brings him to the floor. It's Craig! "Not you again?" says Charlie.

Chesney is playing with the remote control car that Fizz and Kirk brought him. Kirk leaves a lit banger in the alleyway just as Norris puts his head over the wall to complain about the noise. He's not sure it's legal to let off fireworks at this time of year. Cilla reckons he's one of those ‘Neighbours from Hell' they keep hearing about!

Charlie hauls Craig to his feet and takes the keys off him. "It's my house," says Craig, but Charlie disagrees. He throws him out of the front door just as Sally and Kevin are walking past. As Craig picks up his rucksack and walks off down the street, Charlie explains to the Websters that he's been squatting on his property for at least a week. "So where's he gone now?" asks Kevin. "Don't care, do I?" says Charlie, going back indoors.

Norris is still looking over the wall, threatening to call the police if the noise isn't turned down. Cilla tells him to ring them, and they all laugh at Norris as he goes back inside. Les then turns off the music and runs round and puts a banger into Norris's dustbin. Within moments Norris is back looking over the wall. "Thank you, peace at last!" he says, and just then there's a huge bang as the lid flies off the bin and Norris nearly falls off his ladder.

Frankie and Danny are having their drink in the Rovers. She tells him that she'd heard Leanne was pregnant and then heard it wasn't true and that they had split up. Danny says he was hoping to tell her himself, seeing as it was her he did it for. Frankie doesn't understand, so he explains that last Friday he told her he wanted her back and she told him to split up with Leanne first. Now he's done that. He asks her again, "Take me back, Frank, please!"

The Websters are trying to phone Keith, but not getting any answer. Sally wonders if they should call the police, or drive round and see if they can find Craig. Kevin doesn't think they'd ever find him and he's a big strong lad who can look after himself.

In the pub, Frankie tells Danny he's misunderstood, and she never told him to dump Leanne. He points out she had finished with Nathan, she tells him it just wasn't working. "That's because we were getting on better," says Danny. Frankie reckons it had nothing to do with him and her. "So you don't feel anything for me at all?" asks Danny. Frankie tells him that maybe they can be mates if they try hard, but that's about it. Danny tells her they're meant to be together, "Say yes!" he pleads. She stares at him and shakes her head. "It's not going to happen, Danny," she tells him, "not now, not ever. I'm sorry."

Anne Logan



Friday 28 July

Welcome to Friday in that humid, thundery tropical paradise known as the UK, and another episode on the street -- the only place NOT talking about the weather.

Claire is out pushing the baby across the cobbles -- enough to wake anyone, you would have thought. She stops so the factory workers can admire him, then says she must be off because she's promised to take the baby to the park to see the duckies. Quackers, or what?

A very tired Keith arrives by car to be met by Rita. He's come to look for Craig. Rita invites him for a cup of tea but before he can go into the Kabin, Sally tells him that Craig was staying in the old house but Charlie's chucked him out.

The factory workers are joking about babies and get on to teasing Janice about becoming a grandmother. Janice is fed up and tells them Leanne and Danny have split up. When Sally suggests Leanne is only upset because she's lost her meal ticket, Janice gives her a look that could shrink an elephant to pea-sized.

Leanne herself is packing. Danny makes smart comments about her "spoils" but she insists she's only taking what's hers. "So I'm a gold digger, am I?" she demands. "Hello! You've just screwed me for a hundred grand!" Leanne doesn't seem to have the heart for a fight and I felt quite sorry for her, despite everything she's done.

Keith is at the building yard but Charlie isn't very helpful. He points out Craig was trespassing and he could have called the police. But he promises Keith he'll keep an eye out. As Keith leaves, Eileen arrives with Jason's lunch, forgotten again. "Please tell me that's not Sarah you're texting!" she tells him. "I am not texting Sarah!" he insists. She says he's got no willpower and he points out that he takes after Eileen. "Me? I once left a King-sized bar of chocolate in the fridge for a whole day!" she boasts. [Technical note: If you leave chocolate in the fridge, the cocoa solids will separate out and you'll get that funny white bloom on it. Don't do it. There should be no need to have chocolate in the house for more than, oooh, 20 minutes before eating it!] And, despite Jason's words, Sarah's phone bleeps with a text just as she's heading into the cafe. She pauses to give Jason a dirty look.

Frankie is on her way to work when Danny intercepts her. He says she just has to say that she feels nothing for him and he'll walk away. She doesn't answer. But when he takes that as a sign, she tells him he's a disaster and she feels sorry for any woman getting involved with him. He says she's the only woman for him and she says she might even believe him, but it makes no difference because he's a liar. He tells her very quietly that he can't give up on the two of them because that would be like giving up on life itself. She walks away.

In the Kabin, Bev tells Rita, Claire and Norris that her wedding cake will be a pile of little fairy cakes. "My mother taught me to make fairy cakes," says Norris. "Oh, the fun we had." Rita looks at Bev. "I'm saying nowt," she says. Bev complains that she's not nearly as organised as Shelley was. So Claire offers to help. She says she hardly knows the baby is there half the time and it's no problem. Bev says she puts other mothers to shame. Claire says she'll look on the Internet. When Claire leaves, Norris starts a tirade against her, saying she's overbearing and would make Joan Crawford look mild-mannered. "She's over-stimulating that child!" he insists. "Give her a couple of weeks and she'll be waving flash cards in front of his face. Aardvark. Bison. Pachyderm." Rita says she wishes her mother had done that for her. "And then maybe I'd know what the heck you're talking about."

Fiz and Sean are in the cafe, talking loudly about Danny and Leanne splitting up. Frankie points out that she already knows about it. So they switch to running down Leanne and praising Frankie. Roy puts a full breakfast down in front of Craig, who points out he only asked for a sausage buttie. Roy tells him it's a special offer, then mentions that Keith has been in looking for Craig. Craig is worried Keith should be resting and Roy suggests it might be best if Craig at least lets him know he's OK.

Keith is in the pub and Kevin offers him somewhere to rest. Eileen is chatting with Jason when Sarah comes in and asks Jason to stop texting her -- it's like stalking. Jason apologises but Sarah says that everything that comes out of his mouth is a big fat lie. Jason says he was just mouthing off to Charlie and he's mad about her. But Sarah shouts "It's over!" and leaves. Eileen realises Sarah puts her in mind of Miss Piggy. "I wonder if that was her role model at school." But a look of panic comes over Jason's face. "I love her, Mam. What if I never get her back?"

Outside the cafe, Leanne confronts Frankie. When Frankie retaliates, Leanne points out that Frankie stole Danny from Carol in the first place -- wrecked her life and took her son. "Compared to you, I'm a flippin' saint!"

"Will you have a bit of boiled ham?" But Keith tells Sally he's not hungry. She's asking him about cheese when Craig comes to the door and asks if his grandad is there. "I'm sorry," he tells Keith. Keith starts to shout at him and then catches himself and says at least Craig is safe. He wants to know if Craig has been sleeping rough, but Craig says he's staying with a mate. Keith wants to take him right back to Bournemouth, but Craig refuses. "No, I can't. I'm staying. I belong here." He says he promised to be there when Rosie gets back. "I'm sorry you came all this way, 'cause you wasted your time."

Claire has the table piled with print-outs as she sits down to a cup of tea with Bev. Bev wants to do something for Claire and invites them round for tea, but Claire's already prepared something.

Sally tells Craig that it's not good to put so much stress on his grandfather. Craig says he didn't expect Keith to turn up there. "He's here because he cares about you," points out Sally. Craig says Keith has Auntie Margery to look after him now. Sally thinks Craig will do the right thing.

Sean is pumping Janice for break-up info, but she's not playing, apart from saying it's for good. Joanne thinks some men just can't keep it in their pants, and Fiz blames Danny's job. It's being surrounded by frillies all day, she thinks. "Bras and knickers as far as the eye can see." Sean disagrees. "I'm up to me elbows in gussets all day and it hasn't made me more manly." He's busy telling the others that he's heard Danny wants to get back with Frankie, "like she's got some sort of magnetic pull..." and there's Danny standing in front of him. Danny accuses Janice of spreading gossip, but the others deny that she has been. Danny says the next time they're tempted to gob off, they should remember he's the boss and pays their wages. The workers turn to telling off Fiz for not telling them she had a cousin in confectionery.

In the Rovers, Les sees Leanne sitting on her own. He's heard. "No-one hurts my little girl. I'll not stand for it." "So what are you going to do then -- bash him into loving me?" But Leanne just wants a hug from her dad. Nearby, Gail and Sarah are sitting having a drink when they see Eileen and Jason come in. When Eileen orders the drinks, Gail comes and stands beside her. "If looks could kill, our Jason would be six foot under," Eileen says. "What do you expect?" asks Gail. Eileen says cattily that she'd expect someone who'd given birth at 13 to be a bit more mature. Gail retorts that she's seen families like Eileen's on Jerry Springer. "My daughter's had a lucky escape!"

Sally is trying to persuade Keith to stay overnight. Craig is adamant he won't change his mind. Sally tries to tell him he's still a child, but he says he's not, not after everything that's happened. He picks up his gear and says he's going to a mate's. "I've got to do this." He leaves. Keith just sits there. He says he was working when he was Craig's age. "He's right. There's nothing I can do."

Work's out, and Danny just about beats his workforce to the bar, where he is accosted by Les, who claims he broke his little girl's heart. Danny tells Les that Leanne got her pound of flesh, and Janice tells Les to leave it. "Well! I never thought I'd see the day!" shouts Les. "Janice Battersby rolling over for some jumped up southern jessie!" Danny accuses Leanne of deliberately stirring up her dad. Janice tells Les to shut up. "You're needed here." As Danny leaves he pauses by another booth. "Come with me, Frankie." She shakes her head.

Keith is wondering if he did the right thing. Kevin points out that it's too late to go looking for Craig.

Meanwhile, in a park not so far away (actually, it looks like it's in Albert Square), Craig unrolls his sleeping bag and settles down on a park bench.

The End.
Margaret Carr



Sunday 30 July

Settle down as we tune in for another Sunday night on the Street. As Jane Danson, who plays Leanne, gets bigger and bigger with her real-life pregnancy, the camera angles get more and more inventive, trying to disguise that fact from us. So tonight I'll be showing you [in brackets] just what they're using to shield the bump.

We open in the flat where a fed-up-looking Leanne is packing [suitcase lid disguising her shape]. Danny tries to calm her down but she's not going to pretend she's not upset. The last straw is when he manages to empty the case on the floor while he's trying to help.

Claire is loading the washing machine as Fred tries to get Ashley moving, though we're not sure what for. Fred and Ashley praise her organisation and call her a treasure. It seems they're off to give the shop a good mopping and stoning. As Ashley kisses the baby goodbye, Fred points out that would be a lot easier if the baby had a name. "He could have had a dozen names by now, if somebody didn't keep knocking them back," Claire points out. Ashley points out that she hasn't accepted any of his suggestions, either. Fred points out that "Frederick" has lasted him a lifetime with no harm. Behind his back, Claire and Ashley screw up their faces.

Keith is still at the Websters' and is planning on going out to look for Craig.

Leanne tells Danny that as soon as the bank is open tomorrow, he'll get what he wants. "Some people have pre-nuptials. I've got Mike's will." But she says he's not getting it until the cheque clears.

Keith and the Websters step outside and are talking about where to start looking and then Craig appears around the corner. He says he's staying with a pal whose parents are in Spain for a fortnight. And there's no point in expecting him to go back, because he's stopping in Weatherfield. Keith decides they need to go for a walk.

Jason is moping and Charlie is fed up. "Instead of mithering about how you're going to go and get her back, why don't you just decide you've kicked her into touch," he suggests. This annoys Violet and Jason, who moves away to drink somewhere else -- close to Sarah as it happens, but she's not talking to him. Tracy turns up to drink with Charlie, and also to ask him for some cash for new jeans. He's not in a generous mood. Danny comes in to face sarcasm from Jamie and Adam. Jamie tells him he'll never get Frankie back. Violet looks ready to knock all their heads together. In Janice's flat, she and Leanne [television set] are talking about Danny. Janice says Leanne can just stay there and not go back until morning, but Leanne thinks that would make Danny think he'd won. "I just want me money, then I'm off," Leanne says [sofa arm]. She wants to go somewhere warm. The doorbell buzzes -- it's Danny. He wants to get a few things straight. He asks Leanne to go somewhere to eat. She says it doesn't mean she trusts him. She says she won't go with him now, but will meet him at the restaurant in an hour.

Craig and Keith are walking in what could almost pass for part of Pukekura Park in New Zealand. Maybe the camera crew had earned a day away from the studio, but I don't think we've ever seen this park on Corrie before. Keith's trying to persuade Craig to come back and also to find out some details of where Craig is staying, who he's with and what he's doing. But Craig says he's staying. Keith agrees to put some money in his account every month. They tell each other they love each other just as much as always. Ahhhh.

Leanne [bar counter] and Danny are in a restaurant. She's eyeing up the waiter. Danny orders good wine. He suggests they have a meal like civilised people. What does she think? "I think you're going to spend the rest of your life never knowing when you're on to a good thing," she says. "I'd rather look on the bright side," he says. "And what side will I look on, Danny?" Leanne asks.

Maria is searching the flats-to-let section when Charlie approaches and mentions his flat will be going begging. Maria agrees surprisingly quickly for someone who knows his reputation.

In the restaurant, Danny and Leanne [Danny's shoulder, wine glass, arm] are talking and he's explaining he couldn't stay with her because that would mean lying every day. She says that so much of what they had together has been about scheming and planning, "you and me against the world -- it seems kind of right that we're both sat here worrying what the other will get up to." He reckons a bit of her still likes him. She agrees she can put up with him for 16 more hours. Danny says they had some good times and gave people something to talk about.

Claire is trying out test pots of paint on the wall when the menfolk get home. She's thinking of redecorating. Fred says he's tired but he wants to get the name businesses sorted out. Joshua, who now has a speaking role, has done a picture for Ashley. "A proper little Michelangelo!" says Fred (twice). "There y'are. There's a name for you!" Claire turns around "We are NOT naming him after a ninja turtle!" she fumes. Ashley likes Hayley's suggestion of Eliot Peacock and so does Fred. Claire tells them to put it on the list. "He'll be making his own suggestions the way you two are carrying on!" Fred claims. "Albert! Frank! Wolfgang Amadeus!"

Sarah steps into the street but Jason is watching her door and they soon start arguing. Charlie catches up and Jason tells him to shut his face. Maria has seen the flat and offers Maria a substantial discount if she can move in straight away. She wants to get it settled tomorrow so she can give him the money. "You can give it to me any time you want," he purrs. They shake hands, unaware Tracy is watching from the house.

"What's going on with Maria?" is her first question to him, but she's happier when she hears what it was all about. "Now, we've got enough money to pay for those new jeans," she points out.

Danny and Leanne are back at the flat. Danny says the reason they've been able to make a deal is partly because Janice kept her trap shut. Leanne agrees that was risky. "For enemies, we've not had a bad day out," she agrees. She tells him they could be friends again. Danny turns her down quite bluntly. "I might be making the biggest mistake of my life, but I have got to go for it," he says. "Can't we just hate each other -- make it simple." "This is killing me now, Leanne. Killing me."

Keith is leaving. He tells Craig to keep him informed. They hug. Keith drives off and Craig picks up his pack ready to go. He assures the Websters he's going where no-one has to worry about him. They offer him a room but he turns it down.

Leanne [packed luggage] is having a wee weep in the bedroom. She turns down the offer of some wine. Danny picks up a glossy magazine from the bed. "Dunno how you read this tripe," he says. He starts to flick through it, then throws it on to the bed. As soon as he's gone, Leanne removes the will from between the magazine pages. In fact, she's got two copies and mutters that she's keeping one for herself, "just in case."

The End
Margaret Carr



Monday 31 July

Two episodes in one update this week. We have had one comment this week from a valued reader that not all recipients enjoy the comments inserted by your humble author and his co-updaters and would we please stick to the action. In my personal defence may I just observe that sometimes events are so boring that a few sideswipes are justified to maintain a sense of affection for the Street. Anyway the Street in Weatherfield is really mean this week as Leanne decides that revenge is more important than money.

In fact most of the two episodes are dominated (ohh I wish) by Leanne, Danny and the will. First Janice wants to know from Danny if Leanne has gone yet - nope but once that little financial transaction is settled she will be on her way he responds. He asks her to keep it quiet - and this is the Danny who called her Lippy!! Later Janice tells the factory girls it is all over between Danny and Leanne but gives little more away. Sean asks Danny if wants a group hug but the latter says he will pass.

Along the Street David is being kept out of trouble this summer by working in Audrey's - as if. Jason begs peace discussions with Sarah but as it is time for work not a chance - David suggests he sends a text message - she always reads them, so Jason knows all is not lost. Later Gail sees Jason in the Street and tells him to leave Sarah alone - as if! Charlie observes that women always end up looking like their mothers so Jason has had a lucky escape.

Sally and Kev head off to work - Sophie is left on her own. Better she should have David's job and he should be working in the Corner shop in my view. Sophie, Chesney and Cameron spend most of the morning in Roy's but eventually she finishes her drink and Roy wants the table back for real customers. Luckily Les has a load of horror DVDs and Sophie has a working DVD player so they decide to get one and retreat to the Websters to watch it.

Craig rehouses a chair from a skip outside his old house - but where is he re-housing it too? Is he the new Scooter? Later Craig has a meal at Roy's and the latter wants to know if he is staying. Craig wants to see Rosie - his lover and Roy offers him a meal on the house - he will need to keep his calories up. Later Craig talks Dev into giving him his job back at the Corner Shop.

Leanne turns up at the factory and delivers the original of Mike's will which Danny shreds. They argue as Danny says meeting Leanne was the worst day of his life. He tells her that she has cost him far more than it was all worth. She stomps outside to a waiting taxi, gets another envelope out of her bag, totters along to No1 and gives Blanche the letter checking first that Adam still lives there. Tell him it is from Leanne and it is genuine. She returns to the cab, agrees with Jan that she will never see the other £50k, thank Jan for being brilliant and departs for the airport. Blanche meanwhile wants to know what is in the envelope and tries to convince Ken and the dreary one that they should buy a matching envelope, open this one, read the contents and reseal it for Adam. Janice returns to the factory but does not tell Danny what happened when asked.

Sal returns home and guess what - yes three bored teenagers watching an 18 rated horror movie. Sophie is told she cannot stay indoors for the rest of the holiday (as if). Sal tells Kev of the drugs, sex and debauchery, sorry DVD session; Kev reckons there is little to be done as usual Sal knows better. The three kids bless 'em hang around on Maxine's seat until spotted by Cilla - who offers to cook for them. Now look I know about the ptf but this is obscene! She even goes to the shop where she tells Les she cannot go for a drink because of his DVD having caused problems for Chesney!

Jason is looking for Sarah here there and everywhere, but cannot find her; then he tells Charlie he has to do something important, then he is on the phone checking that something is available. Finally he finds her at the salon and they go in the backroom, he kneels and proposes! Well knock me down with a feather who say that coming? He leaves so she can think it over (excuse me when did either of this pair have a brain). Anyway after about two minutes she finds him in Charlie's house and asks if he means it - he means it - indeed they would be married within two weeks. So she says yes and they leap on each other before rushing out to the registry office to confirm the mystery booking Jason made earlier.

Adam (with the worst haircut I have seen - Ken should take him to a decent hairdresser) comes home and watched by the clan opens the envelope which as Dreary accurately observes is a will - which just so happens to be Mike's. Well we already knew that! Ken (with a huge legal background) pronounces that it is a will - dated 25 January 2006 now is that before or after the other will? Luckily Adam kept a letter from the solicitor, so can find out. A quick phone call later - 18 January, so the new will is later and therefore "last". Ken thinks a visit to a solicitor but as usual in the Street it is direct confrontation and they march outside to find Danny, trying to worm his way back into Frankie's affections on the Street. The deputation consists of Ken, Dreary, Adam and Blanche who really does not look particularly well at present. Danny accurately observes that it is a photocopy and having come from Leanne is probably not worth the paper it has been copied on. The factory girls watch from across the Street as the parties trade comments and Adam observes that the business (51%) the flat and the villa in Spain (current owner Frankie - who is still listening) are all his HIS I repeat HIS not Danny's. Danny plans on keeping the lot. Danny says it is forgery and slander but in view of the public attention they should go to the factory to discuss it in private.

Tracy has a had a call from the fat cow's (Shelley's) ex-husband - brother Peter (except they are only related by marriage and I am not sure what the legal link is called). He is having a bit of do down in Portsmouth and Tracy wants to go (all these family parties they keep having in the Barlow family). Charlie says he cannot afford the time off work. Shortly after she has gone his phone rings - it is Maria and she wants to move her things into the flat after work. Kirk and David agree to help with the removal. Maria has only half of the 200 pounds promised. Charlie accepts with a laugh and tells her not to reveal his softer side as the removal men arrive with the cardboard boxes- Charlie notes that she seems able to convert men to slaves - and she agrees that they want it!

In the factory Danny tells them about his split from Leanne and her obvious desire to exact revenge. Janice bursts through the door - allegedly to collect her fags but in reality to eavesdrop and nothing is said until she departs. Anyway Danny reckons that either it is a complete forgery or perhaps Mike made a new will every day in Spain - and they will find a lot more. Adam does not believe Danny for a second. Ken says they will take legal advice. Danny tells him to go ahead - the lawyers will not agree with them. Adam wants revenge - starting with the factory. Danny controls his anger until they have gone and then knocks over a rack of clothing.

Sal gives Sophie a lecture on the ills of 18 rated films and how they can lead youngsters astray. Kevin lets her rant and sides with Sophie by giving her a sly wink.

In the Rovers the factory girls discuss the events of the day whilst Les boasts he has had several airport runs - holidays. Cilla reckons she needs a holiday in the sun. Sal finds Les and tells him that she wants no more of his trash in her house (Cilla asks Les if she has seen the state of the eldest daughter - talk about trash!). Jason and Sarah arrive back from the registry office - it is all booked so they invite Eileen and Gail to join them. They sit back to back. Gail calls Sarah a stupid child. Eileen tells them they don't know their own minds - they were not even talking to each other that morning, on, off, on, off. And then Eileen and Gail agree with each other - neither of them will attend the wedding.

Danny has become desperate - he spends the last half of the episode talking to Leanne's mobile - he knows she is never parted from it so he leaves a series of messages (which are pretty incriminating in themselves). You wanted money - you got money - it was a done deal - you have shafted me good and proper and I want to know why. And he is not going to let them get his property and by the way Leanne if I see you again you are dead.

Kosmo Richard W




Updates written by K Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen, Katie Fairclough, Ann Logan, Peter Webb, Margaret Carr, Amanda Souter.
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