Written by Jayne Hollinson Directed by Michael Kerrigan
Produced by Steve Frost
Sponsored by Cadburys
Coronation Street is copyright of ITV Productions.

FIRST EPISODE OF THE YEAR
First episode of two episodes tonight

Outside Michelle puts a box in the back of her car. Rita comes up to her and says happy New Year. Michelle says the same. Rita says she is up early. Michelle says she is working later and Paul is taking her into town to get a few things for the flat. Norris comes up and Rita says happy New Year to him as well. He asks Michelle if she is allowed to be doing that and asks if she is moving in. She says no she is squatting. Norris then asks if she is going to be moving in with her kid. She says, no she is leaving him behind. He then says at least he will have is own property to deface and walks away. Rita tells her to ignore him as they all do. Rita then says bye and goes. Steve comes up and asks if she is moving in. Michelle says she is just going to clean the place, as it is dirty. He says he used to live there. Michelle says this must be his and hands him a sock, fridge magnet that he says is Amy's. She then hands him a magazine and says how shall she put it and says up lifting moments. Steve says that is Vernon's. He asks how her night was with Sonny and says it's sad or she's desperate. She says he was a good kisser and then asks Steve who he got to kiss at New Year. She then smiles and says mummy. Steve says nothing.

Over at the Grimshaw household Sean is telling them that Frankie left. Violet does not look well. Eileen is doing the buttons of Holly's baby grow and says why do babies kick when you change their nappies. Sean then says he got a phone call and asks them to guess who it was. Violet says she is going to be sick. Jason comes in the room and Eileen says its about time. She tells him she is going to work soon and he will have to look after his daughter. Sean says only Danny who no one is listening to him. He then says he is going to go round and see Jamie and goes. Jason says no way as he feels like shit and was up all night. Eileen says she was up all night as well and she was not drinking. Jason goes as Eileen plays with Holly saying she was up all night with a wailing baby. She then shouts for Jason.

At Fizz's flat she is feeling terrible and says she is never going to drink again. Chesney says they all say that. Kirk cracks a joke that he says she laughed at last night. Chesney says she laughed at very thing last night. The door goes and Chesney gets up and picks the phone up saying it's Janice. He then says Fizz found it funny knocking over all the stuff and waking him up. He opens the door to Janice who puts her hands on his face. She says he is warm and tells him to come here. Chesney says no way and sits down. Janice says she has left a message with the plumber as her boiler is on the blink, but thinks he is not going to come. She says she has come round to keep warm, get breakfast and have a moan. Fizz says Kirk will make you breakfast, Chesney will listen to you and I am off to bed. Fizz gets up and goes to her bedroom.

Baldwin's household and Jamie is on the phone to Frankie who says she has not seen Danny or told him. He then tells her not to hang up but she does. Jamie tells Sean Frankie has not seen Danny or told him. Jamie then says he must have someone looking out and telling him all. Sean tells him to forget about it as it's a New Year and tells him it's in the past. Jamie says he was never happy with him and Frankie. Sean says he hopes he is not saying what he thinks he is saying and tells him to take that back. Jamie then says he was the only one that knew Frankie left him. Sean says he was there because he texted him and he came running. Jamie says he has been there every time and then told Danny. Sean says no and tells him next time he needs a shoulder to cry on he has to find someone else.

In the back room of the Rovers Liz comes in saying a barrel needs changing. Vernon says he has a sore head and back so he can't do it. Liz says she pleads guilty to the sore back but says he had too much Champagne. Liz tells Violet how he had it in the bucket with ice and lots of candles lit and it was a surprise. Violet says oh yeah. Vernon says some times you have to make an effort. Liz says she will change the barrel after she has a smoke. She then says, no she won't have a smoke. Violet asks if she is out of fags. Vernon says she is giving up. Liz says you have to make an effort for the one you love, she then goes out to change the barrel. Violet says to Vernon that Steve will be happy it when to good use and says how it was a surprise for Michelle. Vernon does not look so smart now. Violet says she won't tell Liz but she thinks he should go help her with the barrel. Vernon does not say any thing but gives a smile and then gets up.

Grimshaw's again. Holly is on the floor. Eileen tells her she won't be long she just has to go do something. She has a sponge and a dish of water in her hand as she goes upstairs. Eileen shouts Daddy. Holly is sat kicking her legs and we hear Jason saying what you doing mum. Eileen comes back in the room and says to Holly told you I wont be long. Jason comes in saying he is all wet. Eileen tells him tough and says she is going to work and tells him to look after his daughter. She says feeding times are on this sheet and she has made bottles, he just has to heat them up. He says no way. Eileen says she is fed up looking after her and he has to put up with it. Jason says, if he has to put up with it he is phoning social services, as she was the one that wanted her not him. Eileen tells him to do what he wants as she does not want to argue with him. He asks for the number but he is told to find it him self. He says he will. Eileen says his dad would be so proud of him, like father like son and walks out. Jason looks at Holly on the floor.

Outside Eileen comes out her house and sees Jamie. She tells him she heard about Frankie. He asks if she was looking forward to the wedding. She says, maybe it's for the best. Jamie does not say anything. Eileen goes across the road. Kirk, Fizz, Janice and Chesney see the curtains are shut at the Battersbys. Kirk says he must still be in bed and asks Chesney if he wants to come with them. He says no as he has to check on his dog. Fizz says to Janice, she has already told them she does not want to drink. Janice says she does and tells her to come on. They all go into the Rovers.

In the Rovers Jamie orders a pint. Liz says she thought he was gone. He says oh did Sean not tell you and says Frankie left him. Vernon says good. Liz says better now that later. He asks if it was doomed from the start then. Liz tells him, yes it was. Violet says it's ok she will serve him. Janice says it was worth coming in here after all. She is smoking a fag. Liz's eyes are wide open and she looks at it and asks what they want. Kirk says two pints and asks what Fizz wants. Fizz does not want anything so he says just the two pints then. Violet says he is mad. She tells him Sean is the only one that stood by him and now he is accusing him. Jamie says someone did Danny as soon at it happened. Violet says it was not Sean and he is hurting. Jamie asks if she is happy Frankie left him. She says she does not care like half the people here. She then says Sean does care and tells him he is going to lose the only friend he has left.

Back at the Grimshaws and Jason has put Holly into her chair. He does the straps and sits at the table. He sees Holly is looking at him with great interest. He looks at her then turns his chair so he can't see her. She gives a wee moan. He looks and he sees she is still watching him. He puts his hand over his face and she starts to give a wee cry. He tells her to stop looking at him and looks away. Jason then looks back to see her still looking at him.

At the Rovers, Violet gives Fizz an orange juice. Liam comes in and says Happy New Year to Jamie who says nothing. He then says it to his two best workers Sean and Fizz who say nothing. He asks Violet for a pint and what ever she is having and asks if it's an orange. She says this was her worst New Year. Jamie goes over to Sean says Violet says he should say sorry. Sean asks what he thinks and Jamie says sorry. Sean asks if he has unpacked as the shirt he got him will get creased. Carla and Michelle come in the from their house shopping. Michelle asks if she can get her brothers a drink, they say yes. She says she is going and getting them not paying. Violet asks if she got all her shopping, she is told yes but Carla has to moan about everything. Michelle asks Violet if she is ok as she rubs her shoulder. Violet says she thinks she slept on it last night and says her sickness is getting better. Violet then tells her Liz has given up smoking. Michelle says she is bad enough and thanks her for the warning. Jamie says he wished he knew who told Danny as it's doing his head in. Sean says that's what Danny wants and tells him to go home and sleep. Jamie gives an evil look at the Conners. Sean tells Violet he is going to the sales, as he can't stand Jamie when he is like this.

Grimshaw's again and Jason is asleep on the sofa. Eileen comes in and does not see Holly. She shouts at Jason and asks where Holly is. Jason tells him mum he said he was going to ring social services and they took her. Eileen is shocked. He tells his mum to chill and says she is in the back room. Eileen says she knew that and asks why he didn't ring them. Jason says he didn't say he didn't ring them. He tells her it's a bank holiday they were closed so he will ring tomorrow. She asks if he has been sat doing nothing. He says he fed, changed lots of nappies and went through a whole cd of songs rocking her back and forth. Eileen says she is going back to work as she only came to check on him. Jason says this is not fair and she's had her laugh. Eileen says he is doing good and goes out the door.

Outside Jason shouts at his mum but she keeps walking. Emily, Rita and Norris are walking. They can't believe its 2007. They thought they would have flying cars and would be having holidays on the moon. Norris says and they thought they would not be around to see it.

In the Rovers Kirk asks Fizz if she wants a drink. She says she will have a brandy and it's for medicinal purposes. Janice says flaming plumbers and says she is going to leave him a message. She gets her phone and starts putting in his number. Kirk goes up to the bar. Jamie goes over to the Conner's and they ask what he wants. He says some information. Liam asks what he means and Jamie says how he got a call from Danny. Liam says its about time. Jamie says how he said not to worry about the factory. Liam says he does not know what he means and says he was the one that spoke to him. Jamie says he bet he knew where Danny was all the time and loved telling him that Frankie left him. Liam says he didn't know about Frankie until now. Paul tells him to go home. Jamie goes out the door.

Grimshaw's household and Jason has Holly in his arms. She is crying. He is walking back and forth with music on. He picks up his phone and says come on.

Over at Streetcars the taxi firm and Eileen is taking a calling from a customer as her mobile goes off. She finishes her call with the customer. She picks up her mobile and cancels the call. She puts her phone down. Steve asks if she's not going to answer. Eileen says no and asks where they were. Steve says New Year, fresh start, bla, bla, bla. Eileen says oh yeah. He says he can't get her back now as she is with Sunny. Steve then says he has had too many disasters so he is not going to try. He then says he might go and see Amy. Eileen says yeah it will fill the next sixteen years of his life and by then he will be bald and Michelle will not want him any more.

Over at the Rovers and Fizz is on Janice's mobile giving abuse down it to the plumber saying her friend is freezing cold while he is sat with his feet up warm. Janice takes the mobile and says, if she dies it will be his fault. Fizz takes the mobile back and sticks out her tongue and makes a noise and hangs up. They all laugh. Steve comes in and asks for a pint. Liz says just because he owns this place he can't jump the queue. Michelle says for him to ignore her as she is giving up smoking. Steve says he has head it all before and it will last ten minutes. Liz says seven hours and twelve minutes. Michelle says not that she is counting. Vernon comes through. Liz says he should learn how to woo a woman and Vernon made a nice romantic gesture last night. Vernon says Steve does not want to know about that but Liz insists and tells him. She says he had candles and Champagne on ice. Steve says that was him who set that up. Liz asks who for. Michelle also asks. Steve says it was going to be a surprise but he saw she was busy. Liz says right and goes after Vernon. Michelle says he must have planned that for days. He says yes and she says it was him who made her work New Year's Eve not Liz. Liam asks Paul what Danny meant and wonders if he is getting papers sing up (?) for Jamie. He then thinks Jamie would know if it was him. Paul tells him not to think about it and get another pint in. Violet is rubbing her arm. Michelle says she has been like that all day. Liz who has come back through says he can't work like that and should go home. She says they are busy but Liz says Vernon will stand in. Violet goes to get her coat. Liam gets a call while Liz lights up and blows it in Vernon's face. Liam says he can't hear him and says he will go out side. Violet also goes.

Outside Liam is on his mobile and it's Danny. He asks why he left them and went off. Violet is walking to her house. Liam says you did what? Violet leans on the door and opens it with her key.

Grimshaw house and Violet comes in to Jason saying he has been stuck with Holly all day and asks if she will take her. Violet says she has a sore shoulder and can't. Jason says it will be good practice for her. She says didn't you hear me and says no. She goes to the kitchen. Jason says fine and starts to do up the buttons of the pram. Violet puts a tea bag in a cup and goes to the fridge. She takes out some milk and clutches her stomach. Jason is almost out of the door. Violet says Jason but it only comes out like a whisper. The door shuts. Violet drops the milk and it smashes to the floor and she shouts Jason loudly. She holds her stomach and struggles to get to the phone. She grabs the phone and says ambulance number eleven-Coronation Street. She tells them to hurry and throws the phone as she kneels on the floor. She then collapses to the ground, holds her stomach and then her eyes close.

What has happened to Violet? Will she be ok? Will her baby be ok?

So many questions that need answers. Well you can find the answers in the next episode that will be along soon.

This report is made for ALL THE OVERSEAS and other COUNTRIES that are behind the UK.

This report is copyright M@nda
Amanda Souter

Before I start tonight's report I would like to wish each and everyone a happy and healthy new year. I would also like to thank those of that have written to us over the past year saying how much they have enjoyed our reports and all the detail we put in them. Onwards to a new year now.

We open with Violet still on the floor.

However we quickly switch to Liam who is banging on Jamie's door. He tells Jamie that he had a phone call from Danny. He says that he has sold his share of the Underworld business to an unnamed person. He wants to know if it is him. Jamie says he knows nothing about it, and wonders why Liam is even telling him. Liam tells him that Danny won't be coming back. Jamie is pleased to hear this.

The ambulance arrives to pick up Violet. Norris sees it and immediately rushes to tell Rita. Rita then tries to find Eileen. The ambulance man gets no reply from knocking on the door, so he looks through the letterbox to see Violet lying there. Rita finds Eileen in Streetcars. She immediately comes over and opens the door. The ambulance man gets her into the ambulance and confirm with Eileen that she is pregnant.

Sean arrives home and sees what has happened. He then immediately goes off to find Jamie. He goes to the pub but he is not there. Liam says he was at his house a little earlier. Michelle asks what has happened, and Sean tells her the news. Michelle then goes to tell Liz. Liz tells Vernon that she has let Michelle go off to the hospital, but he has to cover for both her and Violet.

Meanwhile Liam voices his concerns to Paul and Carla about who the new partner is going to be. He fears that if he ruins the business, all his investments will be lost.

Rita is now keeping Claire up-to-date with events. Charlie walks by and wishes them both a Happy New Year. They are both surprised.

Michelle and Sean go round to Jason's place to tell him what has happened. There is no reply, but they hear the sound of the shower. Sean tries to attract Jason's attention by throwing a stone at the window. Eventually Jason responds by yelling out of the window. Sean yells to him, asking him to take them to the hospital. However as Jason has been drinking he can't, so Michelle goes off to order one.

At the hospital, the doctor asks the nurses to get a line in and get her ready for theatre. (I think he has been watching Holby City - an English medical drama). He tells Eileen that Violet is very sick. He asks her if she knew of any background illnesses, or tablets she may be taking. Eileen says she doesn't know.

Now we go over to Janice's. A plumber by the name of Roger Stiles arrives. She refers to him as "Roger the dodger". He apologises for being late, he was on a job for an old woman and her cat had just died and couldn't leave her.

Sean, Jason and Michelle arrive at the hospital. Eileen tells them that it is thought that Violet has internal bleeding. Jason is worried for the baby, but Eileen doesn't know. Michelle thinks her family should be informed. Nobody, however, knows anything about her family. Sean tells her that she doesn't get on with her family. They don't even exchange birthday or Christmas cards. He says he doesn't know the next-of-kin. She is a mysterious woman.

Roger is working on Janice's heating. He then tells her there is a message on her answer phone. Janice expects it to be Toyah, but it is Roger apologising for him going to be late. Janice says she wasn't going to hand around in the cold flat waiting for a phone call. He then tells her he will have a white coffee with two sugars! Janice goes to make it, saying that will keep him quiet. He then calls back that the old lady gave him hob nobs as well!!

Roger pulls out a part from the boiler and says he will soon have it fixed. Then he is doing other odd-jobs around the house. He says she should tell the landlord to get these things fixed. Has Janice found a new "friend" ?

Tracy is walking down the street now. Claire tells her that Charlie arrived home about one and a half hours ago. Tracy starts to walk quickly and act worried. Whilst rushing she says she has been on a splurge in the January sales. Luckily she says she has splurged on him.

Tracy arrives indoors and Charlie asks her where she has been for so long. He asks her if she still loved him. He says that he would be jealous of her if he thought she had been "playing around". However he adds that no man would look twice at her. Tracy responds, that she can play with fire as well. She then turns and throws him a brief pair of knickers. He thinks she is joking about he other man, but she says she isn't.

Roger is finishing doing all those little jobs around the house for Janice. (I wonder if I could borrow him, I have a few odd jobs myself that need to be done!). Janice gives him a cheque and is gets a five pound note out of her purse, but he refuses it. She tells him that if he is ever in The Rovers then she will buy him a pint.

Jason is getting to the end of his tether with baby Holly. He rings up Sarah, to help him to keep Holly from crying. The phone rings. Jason mouths to Sarah it is Eileen. She tells him that Violet is in hospital, and she wonders if he knows anything about her family. Jason believes they have moved to Scotland.

In The Rovers, Carla tells Liam and Paul about her ideas for children's' wear. She says she already has an order for 50 dungarees. Liam doesn't seem too impressed, and Paul suggests they go for a curry.

Janice tells the girls in the factory about Roger the plumber. They all think she is really lucky, and that he must fancy her. She thought they were getting on really well until she offered him the extra money. She even thought he may have invited her out.

Liz is getting her revenge on Vernon by asking him to bring up crates of mixers from the cellar. After he breathlessly announces that he has brought them all up, she tells him that she made a mistake - and he needs to take them all back down again! He says he will put them in a corner, but she tells him that she would be in trouble if there was a Health and Safety inspection. He needs to carry them all back into the cellar again.

Jason asks Sarah if she thinks Violet will lose her baby. She says it doesn't look too hopeful. Jason then says that it is probably for the best for both Violet and Jamie, as it wasn't planned. Sarah looks at baby Holly and asks if it would be better if she wasn't born. He just shrugs his shoulders. Then Sarah reminds him about Bethany and that people said similar things to her about her daughter. Sarah says that one day little Holly will grow up to be like herself or Bethany or even Eileen - "or like her mother" interrupts Jason. She could be a slapper as well.

(anybody who hasn't been told about the "birds and bees" should not read this final paragraph of the report!)

Jason, Sean, Eileen and Michelle are in the hospital corridor waiting for any more information about Violet. A doctor comes along and tells Jason that she has suffered an ectopic pregnancy. Eileen wonders why she had a pain in her arm. It seems (and this is all new to me!) when the egg lodges in the tube rather than the womb; the egg gets too big, it ruptures and causes internal bleeding and pressure builds up elsewhere in the body. The doctor explains that he had to remove the damaged tube and this has caused the loss of the baby. Jamie is shocked.

(personally I prefer the "gooseberry bush" or "stork" method - far more reliable, and seems safer!)

Wednesday 3 January 2007

Written by: Simon Crowther
Directed by: Michael Kerrigan

The Beautiful Liam is a bit tense, wondering who his new business partner is going to be. Whoever it is will be coming to the factory later.

At the factory, Janice tells the others that her heating has broken again. They are of the opinion that she's glad about this, because it gives her an excuse to call the plumber, Roger, again.

At the hospital, Violet is sleeping when Michelle arrives with flowers. Sean and Jamie are already there, and Jamie looks quite shellshocked by everything that's happened to him in recent days.

Chesney comes into the factory to get some money from Fiz for his lunch. Liam hears someone come in, and assumes it's his new business partner. On seeing Chesney he has to do a double take, then he says, 'It couldn't be, could it? No, ridiculous.' Poor Liam, all the suspense is doing his head in.

Back at the hospital, Michelle and Sean discreetly leave when the consultant arrives, but Violet wants Jamie to stay. The consultant explains that the embryo was growing in the fallopian tube and couldn't have developed, and that the fallopian tube had to be removed and there was also scarring on the other one. Violet assumes, sadly, that this means she can't have children, but the consultant says it's too early to say anything like that. Jamie tells Violet that he's really sorry for everything.

Meanwhile, Janice is a happy bunny after getting a text from Roger the plumber - he's dropping round after work!

Out in the street, Sarah bumps into Jason, who is walking baby Holly in her pram. He's not taking easily to fatherhood, and has discovered it's one long round of feeding/changing/cleaning sick off your clothes. This is an area where Sarah has experience and expertise, and she tells him that when Bethany runs out of school and throws her arms around her, all of those trials seem worth it. Jason's not convinced, and says he isn't ready to grow up yet. 'You think they give you any choice?' Sarah grins wisely.

At the factory, Paul (aka Paaaahl) is winding Liam up about his new business partner, who still hasn't arrived. Liam says whoever it is, he's getting the wobbly chair. Paul tests the chair, and says they'll have to get a new one. Puzzled, Liam thinks it's really nothing to do with Paul, until his brother reveals that he is, in fact, Liam's new partner. Liam has mixed feelings about this. Paul admits he paid over the odds for Danny's share of the factory - and used the money that was set aside for his wife's new business.

The two brothers go out to the factory floor to tell the workforce. The girls want to know what they should call Paul, and he says Mr Connor. Liam also wants to be called Mr Connor - the girls find this most amusing.

At Janice's house, the plumber is fiddling with her diverter valve. Don't be shocked, dear reader, this is all above-board plumbing activity, not a euphemism. But I do have to report that the man who plays the plumber, Andrew Dunn, once smiled at me in Kings Cross tube station, and he is a bit of a babe in the flesh. Not quite up to the standard of the Beautiful Liam, but I digress... Janice is wooing Roger with the promise of another helping of fish and chips, but he says he can't manage fish without brown sauce. She tells him she'll bring him a whole bottle.

At the hospital, Sean has brought Violet's toiletries and clean knickers (what a true friend he is). He says he'll stay there all night with her if she wants (bless him) but she says she's ok. But her brave front crumbles a bit and she looks tearfully at him and says, 'I'm still young, aren't I?' He kisses her hand and reassures her.

When Janice gets back to the flat with fish, chips and brown sauce, Roger has vanished.

At the pub, Liam and Jamie shake hands, now that Jamie knows it was Paul who told Danny about Jamie and Frankie splitting up. Liam has come to take Michelle to Carla's party - just in time, as Michelle and Steve are sniping at each other over Steve causing her to have to work at new year. As Michelle leaves, Vernon comments to Steve that Liz doesn't think that Michelle and Sonny have consummated their relationship.

Janice stomps into the pub, complaining to Fiz that she's blown her chances with Roger by being over-keen with the brown sauce. But would you believe it, the door opens and there's the man himself, having replaced his pipe benders with a lovely bunch of flowers (there's a florist in the Manchester area doing quite well out of Corrie recently). He was called away on an emergency, he says, and came back as quick as he could, to find Janice's flat empty. So of course he tried t'Rovers.

It's a less heartwarming scene at Paul and Carla's, where Liam and Carla keep niggling at each other. Liam plays his trump card, and tells Carla that Paul has spent all the money on the factory deal. Carla is furious with Paul, and Liam, Michelle and Ryan tactically withdraw and leave them to it.

In the pub, the new year is looking bright for Janice as she and Roger head back to her flat, where four cans of Mancunian lager await to accompany the reheated fish and chips. Lovely.

Paul manages to talk his way round Carla - even though she's still angry with him, she succumbs to his manly charms...

Sue Haasler

Hello and welcome to your Friday update.

We open in Paul and Carla Connor's modern flat. Paul thinks everything is OK because they kissed and made up. Carla points out that they kissed and made out, which is entirely different. He says he could kill Liam, but Carla points out that Liam and Michelle are family, and all they need to do is flutter their chavvy eyelashes at him and he puts his hand in his pocket. He's like one of Pavlov's dogs. "You ain't heard the end of this, my darling, not by a long chalk."

Jason wants Eileen to call in sick but she won't. She tells him she's going to see Violet at lunchtime, because Violet needs all the help they can give her. "Lucky cow," mutters Jason, prompting his mother to tell him that if he didn't have Holly in his arms, he'd have a black eye to put Barry McGuigan to shame. Jason says he can't turn up at work with the baby. Eileen suggests he take the time during the day to think about what he's going to say to social services tonight.

In the factory, the others are teasing Janice about Roger, who apparently went back to hers. She tells them that when a part of you is reawakened, it's like having a tap turned on that you can't turn off. Hayley tries to divert them from this image by changing the subject to Monarch butterflies. Paul arrives with a box of chocolates for them to have in their break. Janice gets a call from Roger. Paul fronts up to Liam about his big mouth. Liam doesn't take him seriously when Paul implies that Carla is gunning for Liam just as much as she is for Paul.

In the street, Tracy and Amy are stopped by Deirdre, who says Tracy looks dreadful. Tracy says she's got a splitting headache because she banged her head last night. "On what?" asks Deirdre, which gives Tracy a chance to introduce the subject of Charlie hitting her by accusing Deirdre of thinking that he did. Then she tells Deirdre to leave her alone and stalks off. Claire comes out of her house and Deirdre asks if she heard anything last night.

Charlie is not best pleased when Jason turns up with a baby. "Get yourself a babysitter, mate, or don't bother at all!" he tells Jason.

In the street, Michelle arrives in a hired van (surely her brothers would have lent her one from the factory?). Rita offers to let Norris have an hour off to lug her whiteware up the stairs! But Norris has a "dicky solar plexus" and Michelle has two brothers who can do that. Norris, who's putting the newspaper poster into its holder, is almost offended that Rita is quite cheerful. "Maybe I'm on happy pills," she tells him. "Well, you're going to need them if you've got a teenage graffiti artist living round the corner!" Norris says. Rita ignores him. "You've put that in upside down," she tells him.

In the factory tearoom, they're enjoying the chocolates and Mr Connor (the Liam one) is there having his tea with the workers. Fizz has a Turkish delight and Liam says he has a nut cluster. "Never mind, Mr Connor" says Sean. "There's a drop-in clinic at the medical centre could be handy for that." Paul's there as well. He asks Janice why she's so quiet, and Hayley interrupts with more riveting facts on the Monarch butterfly. Michelle arrives, looking for two burly blokes to give her a hand with her sofa. "Hayley, grab your clutch bag!" says Sean. They won't be needed, though, as the two Connor brothers go off with their sister, leaving Hayley in charge. Janice is pleased to see them go – she has been busy texting. "You don't think I'm going to stick around here when there's a plumber with my name on him in the Rovers," she says. The others urge her not to go, but she's determined. "Just text me when they get back," she says.

Eileen has Jason on the phone, telling him to test the temperature of the milk on his arm.

Jason has to hang up, however, because he's just emptied the whole bottle into his lap.

Michelle's supervising the furniture movement when Carla arrives. She heads straight into the factory. She asks Hayley if she can have a word. She needs Hayley's opinion on something. "Who's your best seamstress?"

Janice and Roger are in the pub. He tells her he doesn't usually do what he did last night. "I'm usually classier than that." He tells her he's not been completely honest with her. He's got a big-earning job on and he'll have to live in – in the south of France between Cannes and Nice, but only for three months. "Come with me, Jan."

He tells her he once saw a movie with a piece of music that gave him goose bumps. He spent years looking for it before discovering it in another movie and buying the soundtrack. "The minute I set eyes on your, I knew. You gave me goose bumps." He doesn't want to pass up the chance of being with Janice and then spend years searching for her again.

Deirdre is crying but she and Ken pretend to Blanche that there's nothing wrong. "Just let me say this," Blanche says. "When Elspeth Yule's grandson was in the depths of his heroin addiction, she and her Norman kidnapped him and locked him in a box room until he was cured." I think she meant they should kidnap Tracy and lock her up to cure her of her Charlie addiction. As Deirdre gets up to answer a knock at the door, Ken says his counsel is that they do nothing yet. "You'd have been a fat lot of good in the May blitz," Blanche tells him, saying he'd probably think getting into a shelter was too much like hard work. At the front door, Tracy is pleading with Deirdre to look after Amy. She says she really needs a rest. Deirdre urges her to see a doctor in case she's got concussion. Tracy refuses.

In the street, Steve is walking with Ryan, who's late home because he had a detention, and offers to get him a chip buttie. "My mum says I shouldn't accept chip butties off strangers," Ryan says. Steve scoffs: "It isn't like I'm asking you to see some puppies, is it?" Ryan accepts his offer. Behind them we catch sight of Jason dashing across the road with Holly in his arms.

Gail calls David for his dinner but he says he's going out. Jason arrives, desperately telling Sarah there's something wrong with Holly. She's chucked up all over him again. "Have you winded her?" asks Sarah. "I haven't laid a finger on her," he says indignantly. "Honestly." Sarah, with the careworn sigh of a mother, takes Holly from him and shows him how to wind the baby. "Put that top in the wash. I got you that," she tells him, indicating the baby-sick on his shoulder as she hands back the baby. Jason leaves and Sarah sits down at the table. Gail says she's saying nothing. Except that Sarah's going to end up with the baby, if she's not careful. "I thought you were saying nothing," Sarah says.

In the factory, Carla is standing over Kelly as close as if she's examining her head for cooties. But no, she tells Kelly confidentially that she might be able to put some work her way – some samples for a new business venture, kids' dungarees, in fact. Kelly says they don't do kids' stuff. "Well, you do now," Carla says. "Don't worry. I'll pay you extra." Kelly looks quite pleased at that.

Steve and Ryan are wandering along eating chips as they go and Ryan tells Steve that Michelle thinks chips are bad for him. They'll bring him out in spots and then he'll never get a girlfriend. "Oh, I'll get you a lettuce leaf next time, shall I?" Steve asks, continuing with the vital question: "So what's this Sonny fella like then?" Ryan says he's a bit flash, well minted, but a bit of a prat. He's got two houses. They're interrupted by Michelle who asks whether Steve bought him the chips. "We're not a charity," Steve, and she takes Ryan off to unpack the three boxes she's left in his bedroom. Steve's watching them go when Charlie comes past and swipes a chip on his way home.

When Charlie gets into his house, he is greeted by the sight of Tracy in revealing clothes, stockings, suspenders, frilly garter – oh, and an apron. She's doing the dishes. She flings Charlie the tea-towel and tells him he's drying up – naked.

It's the end of the day at the factory and the Connor brothers are just returning. They tell Hayley their little sister has them wrapped around her little finger. "Hasn't she just!" Carla mutters from where she's almost perched on Kelly's shoulder. She moved towards her husband and his brother and proffers a box of chocolates. "Soft centre?" she sneers.

At the Grimshaws', the social workers tells Eileen and Jason that Holly's mother has not been traced yet. In the meantime, Eileen can keep looking after Holly as her grandmother. "But you wouldn't be able to give consent for operations, anything like that." She suggests Eileen should apply to be a special guardian. That would mean that Emma would still be the baby's mother, but Eileen would have final say on anything such as operations. Jason suggests Eileen think about it. Eileen tells him that before he knows it, Holly will be 18 and going out clubbing. "And you'll still be going 'oh, what's the rush?'."

Liam isn't letting Carla get a word in edgeways. "You can't just waltz in here and get our workers to knock out shoddy goods for you." Carla is insulted by the word "shoddy". She tells him he'll never be anything but a scaly and he counters with allegations that her mother sold drugs from a pram on the estate. Paul points out that productivity was down today. Carla thinks it's because they spend too long gabbing with the staff, which Liam cLiams is building rapport with the workforce. Carla cLiams it's all Paul's fault for spending her money, and Liam tells her that if she wants 12 grand she should get a bank loan like everyone else. "Like you did, you mean, from the bank of Paul?" she asks. "Well, stuff you. Stuff the pair of you. 'Cause in my book, one bad turn deserves another."

In the Rovers, Fizz asks Janice and Roger if they're going to join the others. Janice says she'll be over in a minutes. Roger has to go. He's unblocking a drain in Crumpsall in a bit. He asks Janice to think about what he's said then kisses her, causing the others to screech. So he pats her bum for good measure. Michelle is talking to Steve, accusing him of being a bit weird and a bit of a stalker. "Buying my lad chips just so you can grill him about me and Sonny..." She tells him he'll be pinching the knickers of her line next, papering his box room with pictures of her and changing his name to "Steve Michelle McDonald". "You cheeky little. . ." he starts, but Michelle interrupts him to tell him he is absolutely nothing to her. "Nothing!" Steve doesn't see anything wrong with buying Ryan some chips. After all, if he's being done for graffiti, he could probably do with some guidance. Michelle offers Steve some guidance of her own – to keep his nose out of her affairs.

Hayley is lecturing the other factory staff on the long-distance flying habits of the Monarch butterfly. Janice looks bored. Sally starts to have a go at Janice, asking her if Roger has gone. "Brought you here to dump you? Never mind, lovie, chin up, chin up." Joanne asks if Janice is all right. "What is it, Jan?" asks Fizz. "I'm moving to France," Janice says bluntly. "You what?" asks Fizz.

The End.
Margaret Carr

Happy New Year everyone. I was away last week enjoying some sun. Still catching up on the Christmas watching - saw Dr Who tonight.

Anyway in Weatherfield events tonight came from the pen of Jonathan Harvey, were directed by Michael Kerrigan and of course copyright remains with ITV Productions.

Michelle is off to see Sunny at his house tonight - and as she tells Sean she has not yet disclosed the existence of her son Ryan. Eavesdropping Liz re-assures Michelle that if Sunny likes her then he will be happy to know about Ryan. Later Ryan offers to go and see Uncle Paul so that she can go and see Sunny.

Janice is convincing the girls that at 41 years of age she can make her mind up and she is going to France - they are trying to convince her to stay.

Gail notices that Sarah is a little overdressed for Sunday - but cannot talk to her daughter as she has a phone welded to her ear and Jason is on the other end of the line as Sarah offers some of Beth's old clothes for baby Holly and she suggests he pops round later to collect. Gail offers to get the best china out. Sarah and David both ignore her.

Claire is sweeping the Street when a dowdy looking Tracy emerges. Apparently Charlie is the only man entitled to ogle her. And she wants Amy to see a sensible person. Round the corner Tracy shrugs off the dowdy clothes and a mini skirt and flattering tights appear - she and Amy are off shopping.

Jason tells Sarah that he is cream crackered and that he has been hit over the head with a brick. Jason thanks Sarah for all his help. Sarah reminds Jason that before the non-existent wedding he had promised to always be there for her and Bethany. Will he always be there for Holly? Sarah was thinking that if he was there for Holly then perhaps they could each be there for each other's children - or perhaps each other. Jason who usually cannot see the obvious asks if they are getting back together. Sarah says maybe - but the children come first because they are the most important.

At the Rovers Sean and Fiz discuss Janice's plans. Perhaps she will change her mind this afternoon! Michelle's brothers are unable to look after Ryan so he we will be unsupervised this afternoon (how old is supposed to be? Most kids of that age are running the street, spray painting and getting into mischief). Sean asks Liz if Ryan can stay in the back and after some badgering she agrees. Michelle thanks Liz - they are finally getting on a little better.

Ken has heard from Peter - he is coming to stay for a few days. Dreary comes in looking concerned - Tracy has phoned and she is not coming for lunch - Dreary says it is a pity when Ken has gone to so much trouble - but Blanche observes that the joint is rare - except as Ken points out the end is well cooked and that is for her. Dreary asks if anyone cares about Tracy - Dreary is very worried about Tracy getting knocked around. Blanche suggests that perhaps Peter can sort out Charlie.

Jason and Sarah smile at each other, decide they are doing the right thing and throw their arms around each other.

Steve finds Ryan in the back room and goes to ask Liz why he is there! Gail, somewhat downcast - and she does not know what is happening at home - observes that Michelle is out. Liz adds that Sunny does not know about Ryan so Michelle and Sunny will not last long. Steve uses the knowledge to wind up Michelle.

Gail and Eileen are at the bar - both looking worried, Jason flossed this morning and he never flosses.

Janice's plumber arrives. He is packed and ready to go. He is convinced she would not join him - but Janice tells him she wants to go to France and enjoy an adventure. Janice announces that she is off for three months with dodgy Rog. Janice packs a couple of bags and climbs into the van, looks around and they drive off into the sunset.

Sarah, Beth, Jason and Holly arrive in the Rovers, Gail and Eileen both object to the children being in the pub. Jason announces he is going to be a dad to Holly and the four of them are going to be a family. They are putting the children first. Jason is going to apply for special guardianship of Holly. The stunned expressions on the faces of both Gail and Eileen tell a story. Gail says that they cannot use the children as a pathetic smoke screen for their love life and storms out. Eileen observes she has a point and leaves as well. As Sarah says that went well. Gail sits in David's car with the music playing loud, ignoring the children. As David observes it is like modern art "Mad woman in a Car". Sarah gets in the car. Sarah tries to explain that she is lonely and does not want to be on her own. Gail is also lonely and no-one seems to care about that.

Ryan wants his play station - but does not have a front door key. Steve offers to drive him over and they both depart. They arrive outside a huge house (which has a swimming pool). Steve encourages Ryan to head indoors. Sunny answers the door and lets Ryan in. A while later Michelle goes out to the car and tips a meal over Steve's lap whilst calling him a muppet. She had told Sunny about Ryan before the latter's arrival and he is completely relaxed about it. She asks Steve to leave her alone.

Charlie and Tracey bump into Jason with baby as they arrive at the Rovers. Tracey starts flirting with Jason in front of Charlie to wind up the latter. Inside Charlie and Ken exchange looks. Tracey continues to wind up Charlie about Jason. She sees her parents and goes over to them. She apologises for not turning up for lunch. She pretends she has a bit of a headache. Tracey tells Dreary not to wind up Charlie - and asks to be allowed to handle him in her own way. Once she is out of earshot Dreary says "Is it any wonder that I smoke?". Ken says that they should wait until Peter is on the scene, that will make it a lot different.

And no doubt there will be more from Charlie and Tracey shortly.

See you next week.

K Richard W

Part 1 of 2

Number 6 and Tracy asks for money for the milkman. Charlie says he gave her but she says he didn't come that day. Charlie takes the last of the milk and gives her a pound. Tracy says she will have to pay him in other ways as well. Charlie says selling her body for two weeks of milk the guy will want money as well. Tracy then says she never thought of how much his cheating was worth. She thinks she might have to do it more then once and have a proper affair.

Out in the Street Peter comes out of his car looks at the Rovers then is just about to knock on number 6 when Deirdre and Ken come out. They greet him and say they where expecting him last night and make him tea. He says he bumped into old mates. Ken takes Peter inside as Deirdre goes and sees Charlie going into his van.

Grimshaw's, Jason is doing a nappy. He says he thinks he has passed this test. He asks what Bethany thinks and she says rubbish. Violet says he has done ok so does Sarah. He gives Holly to his mum and says he has to go. She tells him he is looking after her tonight. Sarah says she has to get Beth to school. Violet says she will take Holly but Eileen tells her to put her feet up.

Factory and Carla is on the phone and says she has a personal touch. She says chow as Paul comes in and tells her that is his chair and says rule that phone and that chair is his. He tells her to sit in Paul's next time. She tells him Janice is taking a holiday. He says what as she says chow and goes.

Barlow household and Ken says Peter will have more room over at Tracy's. Deirdre comes in and Peter asks if they are trying to get rid of him. Deirdre says they want him to keep an eye on Tracy and they think Charlie is knocking her about. Peter says this is Tracy they are talking about and says how she said she was happy when she came down. Deirdre says that's the problem.

Rovers and Vernon is trying to make up questions for the quiz. He only has music as a category. Steve says sports. Michelle says that is only for men. He says you get women's sports and says a question. He is asked for the answer by Michelle but he says he can't answer or Vernon can't use it. Michelle says tv. Vernon then says forget the categories and asks them to come up with 6 questions each. Carla wants Kelly to work in her lunch. She goes to take her drink but Liam says health and safety. Carla grabs Fiz's drink and says not to tell.

Over at the Cafe, a customer moans, saying his plate is cold. Becky, not giving good customer service, says he should have eaten it fast and she will microwave it. Norris asks Roy to be in his team for the quiz but does not want Hayley as he wants a wining team. Norris asks what you get when a good player brings a weak player. Roy says a happy team. Then says he is with Hayley and Becky asks if she can come as well. Hayley says yes.

Street cars and Steve comes in asking her to say a question, you think you know the answer but just can't get and the ones that bug you. Eileen says she is busy. He sees Holly and says she can't use this place as a nursery. She says she is multi tasking. Steve says she can't do 3 things at once so she tells him to do 1 of them. He says he can't and as he has to go to the library. Eileen tells Holly she will grow up thinking all men are useless and be like her, bitter and twisted.

Outside number 6 Tracy opens the door to Peter and is shocked to see him. She asks why he is here and he says he is spying her on her and asks where he is sleeping. Tracy does not look amused.

Outside the Barlow's house and Norris says he will put Ken down as a yes and asks about Adam to cover young ones' questions. Ken says he does what he wants now and asks can he ask Deirdre and Blanch. Norris says they don't qualify for young. Peter says he always knew Tracy would end up on the posh side. They see Ken and Tracy asks if he will pick up Amy. He says yes and Tracy says they really have sent Peter to spy on her. Peter does not want to go into the Rovers but is told Shelley and Bev are gone, nothing else has changed.

Rovers, Tracy and Peter enter. Liz asks him he if heard Shelley was gone and introduces him to Michelle. Tracy says he is the local bigamist. Steve comes through and asks her about her questions. Liz says so that's what all the texting from Ryan was. Steve asks if he's at a computer. Vernon comes in and takes their questions saying they are for the quiz. Peter asks about Charlie. Tracy asks if he has written the questions down or memorized them. She says they are fine and tells him to keep out of her business.

Factory and Kelley is working. Everyone is moaning as she will get paid more and they are falling behind because they don't have her. Liam comes in and is not amused and goes in the office. Carla says Paul said she could use her. He asks if he told him they don't have Janice. She says she is not a PA. She goes to see Kelly. Liam phones Paul saying he needs a word about Carla.

Outside Rovers and Tracy wants Peter to come into town but he says no as he is still hung over. He puts her arm around her and they walk down the street. Jason sees them and watches. Violet comes out the cafe with coffee and tells Jason to give it to Eileen and to says she can't come to the pub quiz. Jason asks her to look after Holly if she's not going out.

Factory and the girls are moaning to Hayley. They think it's unfair. Kelly hears and says some mates. She tells them our time will come so they should be thanking her. She says she has never had anything going for her but has now and tells them she will stay behind while they are at the pub to make up for it. She goes to the office and tells Carla she will have to finish it later.

Outside Barlows Blanche is asking Norris a question but he does not answer. Blanche says she is good enough for his team and wonders why Rita and Emily are in it, as if she is past it they are well past it. Ken comes out. As they head for the Rovers they meet Roy, Hayley and Becky. Becky says you give Emily and Rita, Roy's place. Rita says she feels they were not first choice as they head in. The man from the Cafe that moan says he never left a tip and says thanks.

Outside, Jason and Charlie are putting stuff in a skip. Jason asks if he wants to come to the pub quiz. He says no as he is taking Tracy out unless she ran off with the milkman. Jason asks if he had dark hair. Charlie asks what, as Jason says a guy had an arm round her earlier. He asks who it was but Jason says he does not know. He is told to go get rid of the skip as Charlie phones.

Number 6 and Peter asks Tracy to iron his shirt. She asks why they sent him to the navy. He throws it down and says she is doing nothing. Her mobile rings and she says "Charlie". He asks if she is at home. She says yes but tells him she is going out and he does not have to baby sit. He asks who with but she says she has to go and hangs up.

Rovers, Vernon comes through all dressed up. He bangs the drums and says entry form on the bar and he will be with them soon and bangs the drum again. Michelle asks if he is going to bang that all night. Liz says not if he wants to live. Roy says to Ken's group best of luck and Norris has to shake his hand. Ken says Blanche had a lucky escape. Hayley, when Roy comes back, says it's only a game.

Number 6 and Charlie comes in. Tracy comes round the corner saying she thought he would be in the pub. There is a shower going. He picks up a shirt and Tracy winds him up by saying he has caught her in the act and tells him he might as well go back to the pub. Charlie says right and goes up the stairs in rage. Tracy shouts saying it's only Peter her brother and goes after him.

This report is copyright M@nda

Amanda Souter

Greetings once again.

We take up the story as Charlie goes bursting in to the bedroom door like a man possessed! He lays into Peter, ignoring Tracy's yelling that it is her brother. Tracy is so frightened at what is happening that she rings the police.

Over at The Rovers, oblivious to what is going on the quiz is starting. Vernon is your question master and with a clash of the symbols he starts round 1 and question 1 which is about the East Lancashire Railway. (Obviously a topic that would please Roy). However, it is Ken that announces to his team that he knows the answer to the question.

Joanne then comes rushing into the pub calling Ken and Deirdre that she can hear shouting and screaming outside. They rush out to see Charlie still laying into Peter, they have spilled out into the street. Ken yells to Tracy to go back home, but she goes back to Charlie's house. Virtually everybody from the pub is now outside to view the spectacle. Ken, Roy, Hayley, Deirdre and Blanche are all there to help Peter onto his feet. Deirdre yells for someone to call an ambulance. Peter says that he doesn't want to go to hospital, however Ken insists that he gets himself checked over.

Liz tries to get everyone back in the pub so they can resume the quiz. First in is Norris who takes the opportunity to take a glance at Roy's answer sheet. However, Becky notices the sheet has been moved. Norris starts to write down the answer on his sheet, and Emily queries how he knows it. He says that Ken told him when he was outside. Anyway, Emily asks Norris if Tracy is okay. Norris tells her that it was Peter that got hit by Charlie. Rita says that she didn't know that Peter was visiting.

Vernon is trying to get back to the quiz and announces the next question, "who won the fight" - he then 'corrects' himself by saying the question is about shoes. Steve says to Michelle that this is unfair, as there aren't many designers of men's shoes, as opposed to women's.

In the house, Tracy is trying to explain to Charlie that it was her brother and that she was just trying to wind him up. He says congratulations, that she has succeeded. She thought it was a joke, but he fails to see the funny side of it. She reminds him that he has brought women back to the house. He responds by saying that he brought one too many ... ."you" !!

There is much speculation in the pub as to what had happened.

Waiting for the ambulance, Blanche puts her cardigan around him. She says it is lucky he wasn't stabbed in the shower like in the film "Physic" ! Ken wants to know why Charlie attacked him initially. Peter responds that he forgot to ask !! Tracy is watching through the window from across the road and tells Charlie that she is going round later to apologise and tell him it was a mistake.

Becky tells Roy of her suspicions about Norris having copied Roy's answer sheet. Roy looks across at Norris, but he avoids catching his eye. This makes Norris guilty in Roy's estimation.

Liam and Paul are talking. Liam says that he has told Carla that if she wants any of the workers to do her stuff, then it should be done after hours. Paul looks amazed, but Liam tells him at least he can control his (Paul's) wife.

Charlie comes into the pub. The regulars fall silent. Liz says she doesn't want any trouble. He orders his drinks.

Jason tells Sarah and Eileen that he feels guilty, he told Charlie that Tracy was at home with a man; he didn't know it was her brother.

The police come round to Tracy's ('ello, 'ello, 'ello, what do we have here then?!!!!!!) They want a statement from her, but she says she doesn't want to take things any further. The police officer says they need a statement for their records.

Fiz and Joanne go round to the factory with a drink for Kelly. They want to apologise to her. They say they would like to have had extra work. Kelly tells them that she would have bought them a drink with the extra money.

Back at Tracy's, she is crying. She tells the police that she doesn't want to be seen with them if Charlie comes home. They tell her not to worry, because anyone could have called them. When her phone rings, she sees it is her mother, but she puts on a scared look and tells them it is Charlie. She tells the police that she can see it from his point of view, that there is a strange man in the house. She says she was stupid not to introduce her brother to him. She asks about Peter but they haven't seen him yet.

Over at the hospital, Deirdre and Ken are waiting on news about Peter. Deirdre wonders how Tracy could possibly go back to Charlie's house. Ken (as usual) tries to calm the situation. He says he is more concerned about Peter. He says that he knew no good would come of Peter going round to Charlie's. Deirdre confesses she is frightened of Charlie.

Jason apologises to Charlie for telling him about Tracy. Charlie says he is not in the mood for conversation and says he will see him in the morning. Sarah emerges from the loo and is annoyed at Jason for talking to Charlie. Jason felt he had to as he is his boss.

The last round in the quiz is coming up (bet you had forgotten about that!). There is a tie for the first place at the moment. The team led by Rita are tying with the team led by Roy. Roy feels that he is morally ahead because they cheated on one question.

In the bar both Steve and Michelle are competing against each other. Liz puts a stop to it by taking away their papers. She says she can hear them arguing and says they are both as thick as each other.

Peter discharges himself from hospital. He has got eight stitches and his jaw feels like it has just stopped a truck. Deirdre says she is sorry that she asked him to look after Tracy. Peter said that he didn't realise that Charlie was a psychopath. Then the police arrive to talk to Peter.

Eileen comes home and finds Violet babysitting for Jason. She thinks it is very insensitive of him seeing what Violet has been through recently. However Violet says it is okay, she doesn't mind.

Tracy comes into The Rovers and again the pub goes very quiet. She tries to make peace with Charlie by offering to buy him a drink. He asks her if the police have seen her. She says she told them that she doesn't want them to get involved and should drop the case. Rita turns to Emily and says she can't believe after everything that has happened that she seems to be apologising to him.

Liz announces the result of the quiz. Roy's team are the runners up. Ken's team has won by one point. Norris jumps up to collect the £50 prize. He passes by Roy and offers him his commiserations. Becky calls over that they won by one point, which as Roy says "was gained by duplicitous means." Hayley says they still have their honour, to which Norris replies that they ought to learn how to loose gracefully. When he sits down Rita asks him if he cheated. He denies it, so she says that it would be nice to offer them a drink and snatches the winnings from his hand and goes over to the bar.

The police arrive at the bar. They arrest Charlie for suspicion of unlawful wounding. As the police take him away, he gives one of his smug smiles.

So what is to happen - is Charlie going to be left to rot in jail? Will they thrown the book at him? Sue (our guest reporter) will be here very shortly with Wednesday's update.

Martin Rosen

Charlie is in a police cell, looking not best pleased.

There's not much frivolity in the Barlow household either, where Peter is bruised and battered, Deirdre is angry and Ken is confused - why didn't Tracy simply tell Charlie that Peter was her brother? Deirdre thinks there's no excuse for how Charlie behaved, whether he thought Peter was Tracy's bit of stuff or not.

Out in the street, Steve is dismayed to hear how keen Ryan is on Sonny - he's got a pool table! Michelle overhears the conversation, and tells Steve that he only has to ask her if he wants to know anything about Sonny. Steve says he doesn't want to know anything.

Charlie is about to leave the police station and is collecting his belongings. He's reminded of his court date and says "I wouldn't miss it for the world."

Tracy is at her parents' house, and they want to know why she didn't tell Charlie that Peter was her brother straight away. She admits she was stupid, but then shocks them by saying she's planning to stay with Charlie. They ask her to reconsider if only for Amy's sake, but she says Charlie would never hurt Amy.

Now the first appearance of the episode of the lovely Liam, an event which my daughter and I traditionally greet with a small round of applause, particularly when he's wearing something black - he does look good in black. Anyhoo, Liam is not a happy boy, because Carla keeps using his desk, and his workforce, and Paul doesn't seem interested in stopping her.

Charlie comes to the Barlow house, to apologise to Peter. He tells Peter and Ken that Tracy told him that Peter was "some bloke she brought back." Deirdre is appalled to see Charlie on her doorstep and (accurately) calls him a violent, dangerous thug and tells him to stay away from Tracy. Peter says that if Charlie lays a finger on Tracy he'll come looking for him.

In the gourmet haven that is Roy's Rolls, the man who was flirting with Becky the other day (his name is Rob) is purchasing a pastry. Becky asks him if he wants to go for a drink and he agrees to meet her later in t'Rovers. As soon as he's gone, Becky has an uncharacteristic confidence crisis and worries that he won't turn up. Roy reassures her that he will.

At t'Rovers, Sonny is further ingratiating himself with Michelle by turning up with 3 tickets for Manchester City v Bolton Wanderers (Ryan's s City fan, so this is a more exciting treat than it seems!). Michelle is delighted and can't wait to see Ryan's face when he sees the tickets. Steve remarks that City will probably lose, but Michelle says it's him who's the loser. Ouch.

Tracy turns up at her parents'. She hasn't seen Charlie and is surprised to hear he's out and about. Peter says he turned up at their door to tell them the beating was all Tracy's fault.

At the factory, Carla has taken Liam's concerns about her using his desk to heart. She's bought one of her own, and installed it in the office. Hers is nicer than his, too. He's not happy.

Charlie is at work, and tells Jason that Tracy is trying to make a fool of him, and it's "time to pull the plug."

Becky goes to the Rovers, still convinced Rob won't turn up, but he does. He even manages to spot Becky, even though she's practically invisible behind her usual cloud of fag smoke. Kelly, Fiz and Joanne think Rob looks a bit "fit," but Kelly wants to tell him to keep his hand on his wallet. The others stop her.

Charlie finally goes home. Tracy pretends to be relieved to see him. He says he's had enough of her games and wants her out. She tries to hug him but he pushes her away. She says he'll have to beat her up to get rid of her, and then tells him everything she's done to set him up, so everyone thinks he's been abusing her. Charlie grins and asks if that means that she's planning to kill him, assuming she'll get away with it because of the scenario she's set up. Tracy says that she will get away with it, but Charlie says there's only one flaw in her clever plan - she doesn't have the guts to kill him. He grabs a knife, gives it to Tracy, and opens his shirt. He holds her hands so the knife is against his chest and tells her to kill him. "You can't, can you?" he says, but then for a second it looks like she has, because he gasps and Tracy drops the knife. Then she starts to cry, and he taunts her that she can't bring herself to kill him.

Sue Haasler

Well, it's Friday night again, and here in the UK there was no secret about what was going to happen on the Street tonight.

Appropriately, we open in Charlie's house, where Tracy is still there under sufferance. She's watching the kettle boil and he's getting dressed in the bedroom, where he's wedged a chair under the door handle. He bounces downstairs and points out to Tracy that he's still in one piece. He thought maybe she'd have come to the bedroom with a knife. "It's what abused women like you do, isn't it?" "Get stuffed," she tells him. He says that when he gets back from court, he expects her to be gone, but she points out that he'll be going down for what he did to Peter, so he won't be able to get her out of the house. He suddenly gets quite menacing, threatening to scald her with her cup of hot coffee, but then he pours it away and tells her he doesn't want her drinking it any more. He paid for it. He paid for all the crockery (he smashes a mug to prove his point), every stick of furniture and all the clothes in Tracy's overflowing wardrobe. He paid for her and now he's sick of her, he says. She tries to taunt him into hitting her, but he refuses to fall in with his plans. "I've never hit a woman in my life," he tells her. "You say that like you're proud of it," she sneers. "I've never needed to," Charlie points out. Tracy tells him that bruises fade. "It's all mental with you, isn't it."

Blanche is delivering a lecture. Obviously a connoisseur of these things, she tells Peter that the one thing a trial has over a funeral is the element of doubt! "Will he be innocent, or will he be guilty? Guilty, insists Peter. But Blanche says it could be innocent. "You don't get that at a funeral. You don't get the corpse suddenly jumping back to life and there's never any doubt about the final outcome."

Over the road, Charlie calls another woman, making sure Tracy can hear him. He tells the woman he'll be free tonight and she can come back to his because he'll have the whole place to himself, "as soon as I get rid of the cleaner." He tells Tracy he met the woman in a lap-dancing club.

Deirdre is heading off to work. She can't get the day off work to go to the court, but Ken's going. She's still worried about Tracy being over with Charlie.

Hayley's ready for work but on her way out, Roy asks her if she can help with the table clearing. There is no sign of Becky and she's not rung, Roy says.

In the street, residents from both sides of the street are off to court. Charlie asks Peter if he's fit to drive and offers to share his cab. Peter says Charlie knows he's not coming back and that's why he's getting a cab. "No," says Charlie. "I thought I might have a pint afterwards." His driver is Steve, who asks if Tracy is coming. Charlie tells him she's not and explains that they are finished.

Becky has just been dropped off by her date from the previous night. "Most fellas, you're lucky if you get a cup of tea in the morning," she tells Roy. "Oh, sorry I'm late." Roy points out that she's still in yesterday's clothes and suggests she goes home. Becky gets upset because she thinks she's being sacked, and is chuffed to discover he's just giving her the chance to go home to wash and change.

Claire is ringing Tracy's bell and calling through the letter box. Tracy wants to be left alone. She tells Claire she doesn't know what's going on. Tracy is the one in control. [*Continuity alert: You might notice in this scene, if you eventually get to see it, that Tracy opens the door to talk to Claire, but in the next shot, Claire is still talking through the glass of the door] Tracy gets quite nasty, asking Claire who the hell she thinks she is, but when Claire refuses to go and tells Tracy she has to get out of the house, Tracy's whole demeanor changes. She says she loves the house and she knows Charlie might go to prison today. "I know you love him," says Claire, "but in the long run that might not be such a bad thing." Tracy starts to cry and Claire takes her inside. "I'm not like Shelley. I'm not weak," Tracy says. Claire insists Tracy must leave Charlie, but Tracy says that would be like admitting her mum and everybody else was right all along. "I always thought that whatever he did, I could outdo him," she says. "That was how we worked – and we did work." She tells Claire it's a pride thing. She's not going to let Charlie beat her. "There's not a man alive who can beat me." Claire reassures her that she's got support. Claire will help in any way she can. Tracy says this just shows what Charlie's reduced her to – "Just look at me, sat here with you!" Claire tells Tracy that if she doesn't like what Charlie has reduced her to, she should do something about it." Tracy perks up immediately. "It's not over till it's over," she agrees.

Tracy has made coffee and Claire is giving her a pep talk when they hear a taxi outside. Charlie's back. "Whatever he does, he always talks his way out of it," Tracy says. She tells Claire she'd better go, but before she can, Charlie comes in. He asks where Tracy is (upstairs) and then whispers menacingly in Claire's ear that she'd better go. "And don't come back." He holds the door open for her. Claire scuttles off and Charlie shouts up the stairs: "Two hundred hours' community service! So you better be up there packing your bags." Tracy hurriedly puts on her lipstick.

They're bitter over at the Barlows'. Bitter and clutching tea in mugs from Woolworths. Peter feels like going over to face Charlie – at least then Charlie won't escape punishment, and Peter would happily do community service for it, he says. Deirdre decides she'll go over but Ken counsels that she give them some space.

Charlie could do with some space. He's laid out on the sofa, very loudly almost singing "I'm free-eee to do whatever I ... whatever I choo-oose . . ." Behind him, Tracy slithers down the stairs dressed like a woman of the streets. Or, like the average 20-year-old out there most Friday nights... "Haven't you forgotten something!" bellows Charlie? Tracy asks what. "Oh, bags, suitcases, little girl about so high . . ." Tracy caresses a heavy figurine of a Madonna and child. She turns off the music and asks Charlie if he'll listen to her, but he says he's listened long enough and turns the music up again.

Next door, Claire pushes her ear up against the wall.

Charlie tells Tracy he'll pack her bags for her and she follows him upstairs while does just that. Tracy tells Amy to go into her room and watch her telly. Charlie calls after her to pack her bags too. To Tracy, he says she's been plotting to kill him. "Can't you see how that might slightly affect my desire to live with you?" They're back downstairs by now and Tracy's explaining it was all a wind up. She couldn't really hurt him. It was all a bit of fun. "The minute I start locking myself in my room, it's not fun anymore," Charlie points out, causing Tracy to laugh shrilly. "Did you really do that, Charlie?" She starts to stroke him and tells him in a seductive voice that she doesn't bore him, does she. She keeps him on his toes. "We fight, but we'd be bored to death if we didn't," she says. She tries to get him to sit down, and suddenly it seems every camera angle has that figurine in the foreground. She tells him he's an arrogant sod, but he's special. "I was hurt and humiliated and felt so weak." But she managed to make his name even dirtier. She tells him she would make him happy if he got down on one knee and proposed to her. Charlie is cooing back at her, but with a very strange smile on his face. He tells her she's also special. He's flattered and he's very tempted. He kisses her. Then grips her face tightly between his spread fingers – "But you're not even the best I've had this week! And I've got a date tonight. I'll get your things." He leaves her there, open-mouthed. A mobile phone rings and she picks it up, looks at it, but doesn't answer.

Next door, Claire realises Tracy has cut her off.

Charlie races back downstairs with a suitcase, telling Tracy she can pick the rest up tomorrow. She tells him to forget the marriage thing. He wants her to leave. "Any ounce of dignity you had has just left the building. Go after it." She says she won't give up without a fight. Turning the some more music on, she starts to dance seductively. "A lap-dancer's no threat to me. Whatever she can do, I can do better." Charlie looks at her. "Are you really that desperate?" No, she tells him, this is confidence. She steers him across to the sofa, keeping an eye all the time on that figurine. As she takes off her high-heeled boots and slides on to his lap, she tells him she knows there will be other women, but she doesn't care. She gets up to turn the music up and, with her back to him, starts to sway her hips and dance for him. As she does so, she picks up the figurine and, arm extended, swings it in a circle, hard, straight into his temple.

The End

Margaret Carr

Back again, with Tracy staring at Charlie's slumped, apparently lifeless body. It's anything but, though, and his eyes swivel to stare directly at her, then he hauls himself off the sofa towards her, but he's kneeling, still slumped forward and groggy. Tracy grabs his head and lifts it towards hers. "And just so you know, I hate you," she tells him through gritted teeth. She lists the things she hates about him, including the way he lies and cheats and the fact that he wears his vest around the house. "But most of all, Charlie, I hate what you've done to me. And when I asked you to go down on one knee, it was just so I could do this. Whack! (again). She hits him so hard I swear I could see a piece of the figurine (or his head) chip off. He tumbles on to the floor. Tracy seems horrified by what she has done.

Outside, Claire rushes up to the house and starts to bang on the door. The music is so loud it can be heard in the street.

Tracy edges her way around Charlie's body, turns off the music and puts down the figurine. There is no noise of knocking, which seems odd. She looks down at him and smiles. "Charmed life, Charlie? Not any more." She bends down and pulls on his shoulder. He flops on to his back and Tracy retches. From upstairs, we hear Amy. Tracy rushes up and tells her daughter to stay upstairs.

The reason the knocking has stopped is because Claire rushed across the street and is telling the Barlows she's got a really bad feeling about this. Deirdre and Peter start across the street, despite Ken yelling for them to hang on before they go rushing in.

Tracy is in a mild panic, but is making the house look a wreck. She spills the cutlery drawer contents on to the floor, taking a large knife and putting it into Charlie's grip. Her family and Claire are at the door by now, knocking and calling. Claire tells them she heard shouting and someone stamping up and down the stairs and then the music was put on loud. As Deirdre calls to her, Tracy hurriedly puts her boots back on. Ken tries to say they might have just been listening to the music, but Claire says he didn't see Charlie's face when he got back from court. Tracy now tips the suitcase contents all over the floor. Then she wraps Charlie's hand around the knife and cuts her own hand before calling 999 just as the family smashes the door and comes in. "I think I've killed him," she screams down the telephone. I think I've killed my boyfriend." She throws down the phone and throws herself into her mother's arms, telling her not to let Amy see the scene. Peter looks briefly at Charlie and heads upstairs to get Amy. Ken has the phone and is describing the scene to the police. "He's lying on the floor. Looks like there's been a struggle. A pretty violent struggle." Peter brings down a bundled up Amy and gives her to Tracy outside the front door.

Norris, of course, is on hand. He tells Kevin that whatever it was Tracy didn't want Amy to see, it must have been pretty gruesome. Tracy's family head her across the street with her crying "I didn't mean to kill him." Liz, one of many onlookers now, asks: "Did she say 'e were dead?" Maria and Audrey also arrive and Ken tells them Charlie is dead. He asks Audrey to keep an eye on the house and make sure no-one goes in while he goes to check on Tracy. Maria looks stricken.

Over in the Barlows' house, Tracy is telling her mum and Claire she didn't mean it to happen. She tells Claire that Charlie snatched the phone from her. She says she'd packed her bags and Charlie went berserk. Deirdre tells Ken to take Amy upstairs and read her a story, but Tracy doesn't want to let Amy out of her sight. Peter tells them it was self defence because Charlie had a knife. "You did what you had to do and the police will understand that," Ken tells Tracy.

Over the road, Norris can't help himself. He's dying to get inside the house and is creeping (creep being an appropriate word) every closer. Audrey tells him he must stay away until the police get there. "Thank you, I have seen CSI," he snaps. Rumours are flying around the crowd.

Tracy is still building up sympathy with her family. She tells them she'd never seen Charlie so angry and he wouldn't let her leave. "He went into the kitchen and got a knife and said he'd rather kill us than see us leave." She got the nearest thing to hand and hit him, she explains. Norris's partner in nosiness, Blanche comes in. She fell asleep in the bath and is appalled to think she's missed something! "I have, haven't I? I've missed something!"

The police finally arrive. Peter tells them his sister was the one who phoned and she's over the road. Norris has somehow managed to get between the police and Peter. "Is she all right?" he demands. The police head into Charlie's house, leaving a forlorn Norris on the pavement outside, being inexorably drawn towards the doorway by a piece of invisible string...

Ashley turns up and a distraught Claire says she thinks it's all her fault for never saying anything. Liz is appalled that Amy's been stuck in the middle. Norris starts asking questions and Claire says Tracy was just defending herself and her child. "But how exactly did she do it?" asks the Nosy One. Kevin shouts at him and then Norris points out that Claire has some blood on her top. This freaks her out, but he says he thinks it's from Ashley's apron. He heads for the police to see if he can be of any assistance. (All together now: "No! You can't!") He introduces himself and says he knows what goes on in the neighbourhood. "You run the sweet shop?" asks the policeman. "Well, newsagent's and general store," Norris says pompously. Then he has to admit that he didn't actually see anything. He's trying to pump the policeman for information when Rita calls him from the Kabin doorway. "Norris! Leave him alone. He's got a job to do. And so have you."

Audrey, a curlered Emily and Sarah head back into the salon. Sarah says Charlie and Tracy were always arguing. Emily refuses to believe Tracy would stay with someone who was violent. She points out that Charlie never ever hurt Shelley. Sarah rings Jason to tell him.

The ambulance arrives and the paramedics go into the house. They're trying to get some kind of reaction from Charlie and as they're shouting "Can you hear me?" Charlie's hand relaxes from around the knife.

Outside, two detectives arrive just as Jason does, but they won't tell him if Charlie is dead.

Rita catches Norris looking up just how much money Charlie owes on the papers – five, he tells Rita.

The detectives are at the Barlows'. They've been there less than a minute before they arrest Tracy on a Section 18 charge of wounding. She is cautioned and hugs her mother before she goes. "Look after Amy for me."

Outside, there's some movement as Tracy comes out to go with the police and Charlie is brought out on a stretcher, with an oxygen mask. A ripple of "he's alive" goes around the crowd. "Looks like you might get your paper money after all, Rita mutters to Norris. Jason wants to go to the hospital with Charlie. Deirdre knocks on the police car window and tells Tracy Charlie is still alive. The male detective turns to Tracy and tells her: "He still had a very slow pulse when the paramedics arrived. It's touch and go but you never know. Fingers crossed he might just make it." Is that a smile on Tracy's face, or a grimace?

The End

Margaret Carr

My apology that this update is running a little late. With so many episodes Margaret had twice as much work as normal - many thanks for your efforts! Tonight covers little else other than Tracy and Charlie - the Aftermath.

Moving onto Sunday Tracy is in a cell wearing a white body suit as her clothes have presumably been removed for forensic purposes. The flap in the door opens and she is advised her solicitor has arrived. She is not interested in this - she merely wants to know if Charlie has survived, after all when he recovers his story will sound a lot different to hers! When she gets in front of the solicitor she repeats her self defence story - but again gets no answer to the important question. The police then commence their interview. The interview is timed at 9:05 am.

At the hospital Jason is watching his best mate Charlie. This strikes me as odd - I thought the police kept an eye on such people to keep them safe.

Peter is trying to find out when they will be allowed to see Tracy. Later - and they will need to take some clothes (heaven alone knows what - after all Tracy's clothes are inside the sealed off murder scene!). Dreary and Ken argue over (again - it gets boring) over whether or not they should have intervened.

Steve is worried about Amy - what she might have seen - how upset she might be. Liz re-assures him that she spent a lot of time with Ken and Dreary. Steve says that all he did was look the other way.

Back in the interview room Tracy tells her story, how she planning to leave (yeah right), how Charlie took the view that she was his, she belonged to him. Did he try to talk Tracy out of it? No - he had said if he could not have me, no-one would. She had to protect her daughter Amy from harm (not that she was ever threatened). She cLiams that it was her fault she drove Charlie mad and that was why he locked her up. She called down to Claire to get herself let out. Then she alleges Charlie had been violent before - burning her with an iron. They tell her she must stay away from Charlie.

Back on the Street Peter receives sympathy from Ashley and indicates that Claire is feeling guilty for not having said anything sooner. Peter says that his dad and Dreary feel the same. Sarah stirs by referring to Jason being a loyal friend staying by the bed of his boss. Sarah also says how good Charlie was paying for the honeymoon suite (who actually used it?), Rita opines that clever people like Charlie only let people see what they want to show. Sarah nods.

At the police station they are releasing Tracy. She must not visit the crime scene, she must not visit Charlie Stubbs and she cannot talk to any prosecution witnesses (who they?). Tracy confirms she understands and walks.

At the hospital Jason is asleep when Sarah arrives. He looks rough according to Sarah but he points out it is not a patch on how bad Charlie looks. Jason does not believe that Charlie ever hit a woman. Jason is reluctant to leave Charlie but Sarah insists that he come home, eat and have a shower. "You take care boss, I'll be back soon" he tells Charlie.

Tracy arrives home is given a warm welcome. She admits to being worried - so many questions to answer. She thought they would never stop. Tracy gives Amy a warm cuddle as Blanche observes that Tracy had been gone so long she thought they had locked her up and thrown away the key. In the kitchen Ken observes that it could well all be his fault for not preventing Charlie attacking Tracy. He did nothing and it was almost an open invitation - he gave Charlie carte blanche. Blanche asks if she is being called and if not can she have a cheese and onion sandwich. Tracy tells Dreary that whilst she is thankful for their support she does want one thing - she wants to see Charlie. She loves him.

Finally something else. Kelly and Fiz see Rob (Becky's new boyfriend) in the Street and they take the opportunity to tell him about her history. He goes into the Rovers and asks if she has done time. Becky reacts by saying defensively that she only agreed to meet so that she could dump him. He however indicates that he just wanted to know the real person - and now he does and storms out. Hayley sympathises with Becky, but it was just a man, end of.

After a visit from Claire who is glad she will have a chance to tell the police what an evil man Charlie is, Tracy works on gaining sympathy from Dreary, how she really needs to know that Charlie is recovering because she loves him - how important is his recovery. She needs to see him. Dreary succumbs and takes Tracy to the hospital. Sarah and Jason leave to get coffee having told Tracy that he is at death's door. Tracy leans over Charlie and says how she did not mean to hurt him. Dreary says she will wait outside. Once she is alone with comatose body she hisses at him: "You're not the big man anymore are you Charlie? You are nothing, nothing. So how does it feel to know I have won? Do everybody a favour, hurry up and die."

Just why is there no policeman keeping an eye on Charlie? As Tracy broke her bail conditions they should lock her up just for that.

See you soon.

K Richard W

First Part

Hospital Jason is asleep on a chair. A nurse comes in to check on Charlie. Jason wakes up.

Outside Sally looks at No.6. Amber says they were out at 6 but won't say anything. Dev comes out and asks if she's staying out all day. Amber says he gets touchy when he finds out his ex is a killer. Dev says "kids" to Sally and goes. Sally continues to look. Tracy looks from the window.

Webster's; Sally says they are still there. Kev says it's their job. Rosie comes in saying they are still there. Sophie says it must be a grim job with all the blood. Sally asks if that's all Sophie is having for breakfast. She says yes as Rosie says she is on a diet.

Barlow's; Tracy on the phone asks how hard it is to check on 1 patient and hangs up. Blanche asks if he is dead yet. Tracy says he is the same. She wants to fast forward so this is over and goes to have a shower. Blanche says she can go to the hospital and say when Charlie dies.

Outside Norris sees the detectives and asks if there is any news and reminds them anything they need they know where he is. Fiz says he can't wear that to school, as it's dirty. Chez says Les has not washed them. Fiz says she will and also will speak to Les. Sophie says he was a builder and thinks of the tools he could of been killed with. Ryan asks if he is dead. Chez does not know.

Hospital; a male nurse is checking on Charlie. Jason asks if he is going to wake up. He says they will know more when the consultant comes. He goes and Jason says come on Charlie, wake up.

Outside the detectives talk about the cafe. She says its only 11. He says it looks good but she's not interested if its chips with everything. They knock on the Peacock's. Claire says she is glad they are here and was tempted to go down to the station. They go in as Deirdre watches.

Rover's; Liz says Michelle is happy for a girl with a mop. She says she has a date and winds her up saying its Steve. After Liz asks, where they are going. Steve listens as she says she is cooking. Liz is happy for her and she goes to clean the toilets. Liz asks how long Steve has been there.

Peacocks and Claire has a diary with all the dates. She tells them about when he locked her in her room. Claire then says Tracy was a cow but he sucked all the life out of her. She then says they had arguments and Charlie was having an affair with Maria. Claire wishes she done something.

Barlow's; Deirdre says they can rely on Claire. Ken says Blanche is keeping an eye on the police upstairs. Deirdre wants Charlie to die as she thinks Tracy still loves him and wants him to live. Tracy listens to them. Peter also says it will be better as if Charlie wakes he is going to turn everything around and it will be Charlie against Tracy.

Rovers; Carla is asking Steve about Michelle's guy as she has not said anything to them. He says he has money. Carla says that's nothing to be ashamed off. He says he is coming round for tea tonight. She tells him to keep the change of six fifty and says she has money too.

Corner shop Fiz tells Kirk that Chez was really dirty as they go out of the shop. Dev tells Amber the detectives don't need number 1 gossip nagging them. He tells her to go to school as they come in. She asks if there is any news but they say they are in for chewing gum. Dev tells her to go.

Outside Fiz sees Les and she tells him about Chez. He says he is managing. She says he better buck up. Paul asks if Michelle invited them. Carla says she can't say no if they turn up. The detectives knock on the Platt's door. Gail lets them in.

Platt's; Gail says Charlie is a bully. She says how he got the house of Keith. He did a job, Keith questioned the bill, Charlie took the slates then bought the house from the landlord. They ask about Tracy and she says she calmed down and was not as confident when she met Charlie.

Hospital; Maria comes up to Jason. He asks what she is doing here. She says she has come to see Charlie. He says he will show her in.

Kabin; the detectives ask Norris if he knows Maria. He says yes and gives a description. They ask where she lives and he says she was in Charlie's flat but is now in the Salon flat. She asks for a gazette and he says it's on the house. The male says to pay him. Norris says maybe better as it could be seen a bribe.

Barlow's house Steve comes round and asks how Amy is. Tracy says she is fine and says what ever he has heard she would never let Charlie touch Amy. Steve says he believes her. She thanks and hugs him.

Peacocks; Deirdre says at least now with them taking the notebook they will know what she has had to put up with. Claire says she should have done something when he burnt her with the iron. Deirdre is shocked as Claire says Tracy didn't want any one to know.

Barlows; Tracy says Charlie was nice 1 min then cruel the next. She says she thought she could handle it but he is bigger and stronger. He says she should of come to him. She says he would never believe her then says it was like a war and she knew what ever happened she had to win.

Webster's; Sophie wants to do street dancing. Sally asks what street dancing is. They are all having a fish supper as Kevin comes off his mobile and says Bill is coming. Sally says you know that means trouble.

Barlow's; Tracy says to Steve, everything was going to plan then it all went wrong. Steve says, at least you are out of there. She says he has no idea of what has been going on and she should have hit him harder and asks what is going to happen if he wakes up and the lies he is going to say.

Hospital and Maria asks Jason if he talks to Charlie. He says yes. She says she heard he got himself into a bit of trouble. She holds his hand and all of a sudden the machine starts beeping. Both of them wonder what is going on as a nurse tells them to wait outside and shouts saying he is having a cardiac arrest. Maria starts sobbing.

This report is copyright M@nda

Amanda Souter

Now onto the second part.

We are still at the hospital where the doctors are trying to resuscitate Charlie, by giving him heart massage.

Meanwhile Tracy and Steve are in the backyard remembering their good times together. Tracy asks Steve that if she has to go away for a time that he will look after Amy.

Maria and Jason are looking on in anguish. The doctor sees no sign of Charlie's recovery and says he will "call it a day", and gets the nodding consent of the other members of the medical team. He records the time of death as 18.25 (I reckon it was nearer 20.35 !). Both Maria and Jason are in floods of tears.

Bill arrives back at the Websters' house much to the delight of Rosie and Sophie who come rushing out to greet him.

In the cafe, Chesney is sitting with an empty can of coke. Becky tries to persuade him to leave as she wants to lock up, although he maintains there is some drink left in the can. But she wants him out and grabs the can. Roy comes down and Chesney immediately shouts that she has taken his drink. Roy tells her to finish tidying up while he chats with Chesney.

Amber asks Dev what happened when Tracy went out with him. She asks if she chucked him. Dev, smiles, and says he chucked her. After which she cut up his clothes. Then the police officers come into the shop and Amber asks if there is any news, they tell her they are off duty. She says that she would like to be a detective. Amber then tells them that Dev used to go out with Tracy, and when they split up, she cut up all his clothes. At this point the police officer gets a message on his phone. They leave the shop. The police office then tells his (female) colleague - (who does not have many lines) that Charlie Stubbs has died.

Roy meets up with Fiz and explains that Chesney has forgotten his house key. He says that his clothes are dirty. She promises to sort him out, once she has sorted out Les. Roy offers his and Hayley's help, but Fiz politely declines.

Tracy, unaware of Charlie's demise, says to Steve that he may wake up and murder her. Steve assures her what she did was in self defence, but Tracy is worried it would be his word against hers. She says she needs to get away to Spain. She tells Steve that he can still see Amy, he will be the only one that knows where she is. Ken comes out to the yard to say that he has just heard that Charlie has died. Tracy immediately turns on the tears and says she wants a minute alone. As soon as everybody has gone inside her face turns and it is beaming with pleasure.

Tracy comes inside, and is in tears. Amy is taken upstairs by Adam (who seems to have appeared out of nowhere, inasmuch as he has not been seen/mentioned for weeks!). Blanche tells her that Charlie was a thug. Tracy, however says that she loved him. Blanche then says that she did the right thing and should have done it the first time he raised his hand to her.

Fiz returns home with Chesney to find Les asleep on the couch. Fiz wakes him and tells him that Chesney had forgotten his key. She asks him when he last had a proper meal, and clean clothes. She tells him that he lets him go to school with dirt on his neck. Les cLiams he is doing his best, but Fiz thinks he can do much better. He cLiams he is the victim, but she reminds him that he was sleeping with Cilla's best friend while she was getting herself checked-out at the hospital.

Over at Charlie's house the police are trying to re-enact what happened. He pulls a kitchen knife from the draw, as Tracy would have done, and as Charlie was left handed (an assumption made because the knife was found in his left hand), he would have defended himself with his left hand, but there were no marks found on his left hand.

Michelle and Sonny are getting very friendly together on the couch when the doorbell rings. At first they decide to ignore it, but it rings again for a longer time. It is Paul and Carla who have come and a most inopportune moment for a flat warming. Carla pushes her way in.

Back at the Barlows, Steve offers to look after Amy for a few days. Deirdre is not happy as she can be looked after by her family. However, Tracy thinks it is a good idea. The police call round and want to take Tracy down to the station to answer some more questions. Deirdre is upset, but the Office explains that if Charlie was her family, she would want him to investigate it thoroughly. Tracy says goodbye to Amy before going. Ken, Deirdre and Peter tell her they will follow them down the police station and wait for her.

Carla is now becoming friendly with Sonny. Paul and Michelle are in the kitchen, and she tells him that she was wanting to get to know Sonny better, which she was doing until they came round.

Fiz arrives home to the flat to find Maria sitting there alone in tears with the lights out. She explains that Charlie has died, and she was there at the hospital when it happened.

In the police station the police ask Tracy about Charlie's affair with Maria. Did she know about it? She confirmed she did, but they ask her how long it had been going on. She initially says she doesn't know, but the Police Officer says that Maria said three months. Tracy confirms it was about that time. He reminds her that when the news about Maria came out, Tracy started fighting with Maria in the street. However, Tracy said the affair meant nothing because Charlie begged her to come back. The Officer is surprised that she went back so quickly. Tracy explains that she loved him. He is surprised that she didn't want to take revenge on either of them. Tracy is now getting a little panicky and feels he is bullying her. She says that she loved Charlie. Then the Office decides to end the interview. Tracy wonders what is to happen next as they take her back to the cells. The two officers muse as to whether she is a good liar or is she telling the truth.

Back with the Battersbys. Les tells Chesney that he has not been a perfect father, but he would not let him go hungry. He also tells him that Cilla will be back soon.

At the police station, Deirdre says that Tracy shouldn't be left on her own. Ken confirms that she has a solicitor with her. Amongst this calmness that Ken brings, Deirdre shouts at him to be angry for once.

Tracy is taken out of the cell to another room. The two police officers are waiting there. Tracy wants to know where Ken and Deirdre are as they are supposed to be waiting for her. The Officer then tells her that she is to be charged with murder. Tracy protests her innocence, saying that she was just defending herself She is then cautioned and taken back to the cells.

So, what is to happen to her? Will the judge throw the "book" at her? Can she convince the police that she is innocent? Anne's back and her report will follow next.

Martin Rosen

Hi all, here's the update for Wednesday 17th January.

It's early morning at the Barlow's, and Deirdre is fretting about Tracy. She says she couldn't sleep all night for worrying about Tracy being cooped up with all those weirdos. "Sounds like home from home," remarks Blanche, dryly. Deirdre is convinced that Tracy won't last two minutes in there. Peter looks up, "Come on," he says, "tough as old boots, our Tracy." Deirdre, however, seems to know a different Tracy to everyone else. "No, despite all her bravado she's just a frightened little girl underneath," she says, sniffing. Blanche says that Tracy shouldn't even be in there, when 'proper criminals' are walking the street.

Outside, Maria walks up the street with a bunch of flowers and lays them in front of Charlie's house, which still has the police tape all around it.

Back inside the Barlow house, Blanche comes up with a brainwave. She suggests they all pray. Ken looks alarmed. "We don't have to go to church, we can do it here, as a family," she tells them. Just then the phone rings and Ken rushes off to answer it. Peter says they should have more faith in the system. "Oh yeah," says Deirdre, sarcastically, "because there are never miscarriages of justice, are there, and only guilty people end up behind bars." Blanche says she'll offer up a few Hail Marys anyway. Just then Ken comes back in to say that Tracy is up before the magistrates this morning. Peter hopes she'll get bail. "Of course she'll get bail, she's got to get bail," Deirdre sounds as if she's bordering on hysteria. Ken advises them not to get their hopes up, but Blanche is so convinced she'll get bail she sends Peter round to the butcher's to get a nice sirloin steak to feed Tracy up with when she gets home.

In the Battersby household Chesney is vacuuming and tells Kirk he has to do it because Les won't. Les looks up from where he's dozing on the sofa. "I've been working all night," he mumbles. Ches then asks Kirk if he's got any coloured clothes. Kirk says he has but they'll be too big for Chesney. Ches explains that he's putting a load of washing on, and later he'll make them a proper hot meal, if Les will give him the money. Les looks up and says all his money goes to pay off Cilla's debts. "And whose fault was it she lied to people in the first place?" asks Chesney. Les goes off to bed to get some peace, and Ches tells Kirk to be in for sausage and chips by six o'clock. "Because I've got homework," he says.

Out in the street the Barlows are getting into Ken's car when Liz spots them and asks if there's any news. Deirdre explains that Tracy's up in court today, so Liz tells her to make sure Tracy knows they are all right behind her. "No one should have to go through what she has," says Liz. Deirdre hopes the judge agrees.

Jason and Eileen have stepped outside their front door as the Barlows drive off. Jason tells his mum that it is really winding him up, Charlie being made out to be a wife-beater. "Half of them didn't even know him, but I knew him, and I know her. It's about time someone heard my side of the story," he says.

In the Webster household, Sally is questioning Bill as to the state of his marriage. She wants to know if it's really over or if Maureen is likely to be ringing up or even turning up. Bill says he doesn't think she will turn up there, his marriage is over. Sally remarks that he doesn't seem very upset. Kevin gets annoyed at Sally interrogation of his dad, but Bill then says he has to go, he has a couple of flats to look at. Sally says that answers her next question, and he tells her he'll be gone in a couple of days. "Did you come back because of Audrey?" asks Sally as Bill goes out the door. "That's it, out of order!" says Kevin, and hustles his dad away.

Eileen opens the door to Steve, and tells him she can't come to work, the baby has a touch of colic. Steve tells Eileen she's going to have to sort out proper child-care arrangements, and Eileen says she will. Steve then does a deal – he'll do her shift at work if she'll pick up Amy from nursery. Eileen says it's an offer she can't refuse.

The Barlow's arrive at the magistrate's court, and Blanche is greeted by name like an old friend, by the clerk of the court. "Are we running on time, Neil?" she asks him, "only my granddaughter's appearing….she's innocent." He tells her that there shouldn't be any delay. As they go to sit down, Ken says, "Neil? You're on first name terms with the court officials?" Blanche explains that she's a regular in there, and Deirdre adds that it's because she likes to sit and gawp. Blanche says it's to ensure that the due processes of the law are properly executed, and it's cheaper than the pictures!

Sarah finds Jason in Charlie's office. He tells her he came to sort some stuff out, but doesn't know where to start. Just then the phone rings, he answers it and tells the caller that Mr. Stubbs has passed away. He then suggests another firm they could try. Sarah is amazed that he's turned the job away. "You could do that," she tells him. Jason doesn't feel right about taking work from a dead man. "Charlie's not going to mind, is he," she tells him. "What else are you going to do?" He tells her he supposes he'll get a job. She tells him he's got a job, there. He's got to think about his future, and he's got a child to support. He protests that he's not qualified to take over the business. She tells him to sit down and sort out all the jobs that he could do by himself. "I'll help you," she says.

Back in the courtroom, they bring Tracy in. "She looks terrified," mutters Blanche. The judge tells Tracy that due to the seriousness of the charge it can only be dealt with by sending her to be tried at the Crown Court. Her lawyer then argues for her to be released on bail, but the prosecuting lawyer opposes that by saying that they believe she will try to prejudice the witnesses. The judge then refuses bail and orders for Tracy to be taken away. Tracy jumps up, shouting, "No, I didn't murder him I loved him!" but she's taken away, and the Barlows look anguished.

Back at Charlie's yard, Sarah is calling Charlie's customers, telling them that although Mr. Stubbs has passed away his partner, Jason, is taking over the business and will do their jobs for them. Jason does not feel easy about this, but Sarah thinks it's ok as it's keeping the customers happy. She then rings the customers with jobs that Jason can't do, and tells them the bad news.

The Barlows have arrived home, and Deirdre is very upset. Blanche thinks that Tracy's solicitor is to blame, the other fellow was much sharper. Deirdre can't see that Tracy should even be charged with murder.

Back at the builder's yard, Sarah has booked Jason an appointment for Friday evening – at her house, for his tea. She asks him if Charlie had any family, and Jason thinks he had a brother, "Who's a right scumbag by the sounds of it," he adds. Sarah goes off, and at that moment the detectives arrive to see what Jason knows about Charlie's death.

Bill is talking to Audrey outside the salon, telling her that he's just seen a couple of flats, but both were dumps. She asks him if he's here for good, and he says that he is. "Might see you around," she says, going back inside.

Jason is talking to the police. He tells them that he's glad Tracy has been charged with murder, because that is what she is – a murderer. They ask if he's got any evidence to back up what he's saying. He tells them that Charlie never knocked Tracy about and she pretended that he locked her in the house. He then tells them about the time Tracy faked the row to get the police called round, in order to get him arrested and made out to be the bad guy. "Tell me more," says the detective.

Kirk and Fizz are in the pub. Fizz is outraged to hear that 12 yr old Chesney is doing all the housework while Les sits on his fat backside. She says it should be the other way round. When Kirk tells her that Chesney is cooking sausage and chips for their tea she gets even crosser. "So you leave him in charge of a chip pan!" she excLiams, "anything might happen!" She sends him home to check Chesney doesn't burn the house down.

Michelle tells Steve that she knows he told Karla that she was planning to spend a night in with Sonny. He tells her he didn't know it was secret information. He tells her that Sonny didn't get to be a millionaire by being nice to people and all he's really interested in is making money.

Over at the Barlows', Ken has gone out for an evening paper, so Peter takes the opportunity to have a quiet word with Deirdre. He tells her the situation isn't easy for any of them, his dad included, so he asks her to go easy on him. Deirdre approaches Blanche, "Is it that obvious?" she asks her. "You have been rather curt with him," Blanche replies. Deirdre says she's really angry with him, he's so calm and aloof and she's at her wits end. Blanche tells her that just because Ken doesn't get angry it doesn't mean he doesn't care. Deirdre is angry because when she wanted to go over to Tracy's, Ken stopped her. Now she's blaming herself. Just then the phone rings and Peter calls her, it's Tracy.

Bill is in the Rover's when Audrey comes in, he asks if she'd like a drink, or would prefer not to be seen with him. She accepts, if he's happy to be seen with her.

Kirk comes back in and tells Fizz it's ok, Chesney is cooking oven chips. Fizz is still annoyed that Chesney is having to do all this and says he needs to be properly cared for. Kirk wonders if she's going to grass Les up to the Social Services. But Fizz thinks she should be caring for Chesney, at least until Cilla comes back. Just then Maria joins them at the table. "Maria, how would you feel about us taking in a lodger?" she asks.

Deirdre is still on the phone to Tracy, and is far more upset than Tracy herself. Deirdre says she can't believe how strong Tracy is being. Tracy says the legal system stinks. She is the victim of domestic violence and she has been treated like a common criminal. She tells Deirdre she needs her to be strong for her, she needs her behind her. Deirdre says she's proud of her, and they'll be in to see her tomorrow.

Anne Logan

Hello. It's Friday again and we open in the fog that is now the Barlows' living-dining room, where Deirdre is back to 40 a day. Deirdre is beating herself up for not going over and dragging Tracy out of Charlie's house. Blanche and Peter are feeling sorry for her, but Ken's sure she's coping just fine in prison.

The hair salon proprietor and her team of crack stylists (Audrey, Maria and Sarah) arrive for work, but Sarah is ambushed by Jason asking her to look after Holly. A bit of emotional blackmail works and she agrees.

Fizz stops Chesney in the street. He appears to have skipped washing because Uncle Les says all that washing is over-rated. And when Fizz produces some peanut-butter sarnies she's made for his lunch, Chesney hoes straight into them because he's had no breakfast. "Don't tell me," she says. "Uncle Les says starvation's under-rated." It's not that so much as Les didn't get any food in. Fizz asks Chesney if he wants to live with her and Maria for a bit, though she doubts whether Schmeichel will be able to come.

Claire has called round to see the Barlows. She sympathises with Deirdre, who says she might as well have been locked up with Tracy. She couldn't sleep and her imagination's doing overtime. "Have another cigarette," suggests Blanche, probably deliberately trying to wind up Ken. Claire is worried that the police will deliberately lose her dossier on Charlie. Blanche tells her Tracy will win through, even without Claire's little jotter. "Don't under-estimate people power," Ken tells Blanche. Deirdre says Claire's been a great friend to Tracy. "Not really," Claire says. "I stood back and did nothing." Deirdre says: "Join the club."

In the factory, they're more worried about Amy and how it will all affect her. They're interrupted by Carla Connor, who has an order for another dozen pairs of children's dungarees. Joanne and Kelly (and Fizz, when she arrives) can get them done, she says. Hayley tries to check that Mr Connor and Mr Connor have OKed this, but Carla says that Mrs Connor has and that's all she needs to know.

Sarah's taken Holly to the cafe, where she sees Gail, who is not impressed. She thinks Sarah will end up as permanent carer for the baby. Blanche has taken Peter and Adam to the cafe, but they're not hungry. She tells them it's not about the food. She wants them to show solidarity in public – she doesn't want anyone thinking they're hiding away because they're ashamed. "It's a public relations exercise."

Maria tells Fizz there's no way Schmeichel is coming to stay. "You moult more than he does," Fizz tells her. Maria doesn't mind Chesney stopping for a bit, but not the dog, and she's sure Audrey will think the same. This last bit is said loud enough for Audrey to hear and she objects too. "See, told ya, no way," Maria tells Fizz.

Ken and Deirdre are at the prison for visiting time and a vulnerable-looking Tracy comes out to see them.

Mr Connor (Liam) arrives in to find Kelly busy stitching a denim camisole with legs (his description). "Have I missed a royal visit, then?" he asks. Hayley hastens to tell him she did try to check that Carla had permission to divert the workforce and he admits that she had told him. "Carla obviously wears the dungarees in that family," Sally comments.

Bill and Audrey are in the Rovers discussing his hunt for a bedsit. He makes it clear to her that Maureen isn't interested and he's now a free agent. "You're not by any chance fishing to move back in with me?" she asks him. Nearby, Liz tells Peter and Blanche that she had no idea Charlie was hitting Tracy. She just thought Tracy was dumping Amy on them over Christmas because she couldn't be bothered. Blanche asks what people are saying. Liz says they're being "very supportive, considering. . ." She doesn't finish her sentence, leaving Blanche to mutter to Peter, "considering Tracy's such a cow, she means. But she's our cow, Peter. We've got to support her."

Deirdre reassures Tracy that Amy's being well looked after. Tracy tells them her cellmate is as thick as pudding. She's in for shoplifting and credit-card fraud. "She asked what I was in for," Tracy says quite gleefully, delighted that the reason terrified her cellmate. Ken is appalled, but Tracy says it's about survival. Deirdre says she should have gone over to Charlie's and dragged Tracy out of there. Tracy tells her that no-one knew Charlie would try to kill her. "I probably would have said the same as Dad. Me and Charlie rowed all the time. Leave them too it. They'll be all over each other in the morning." She says it's her own fault for loving Charlie too much and for being naive and hopeful.

Chesney is telling the dog all about their new life at Fizz's place. He's busy packing up dog bowls and squeaky toys, all while Les lies conked out on the sofa. "When I leave school we'll get a place of our own – big garden, the works," Chesney says.

Back at the prison, Deirdre hands over a friendship bracelet Claire made for Tracy. Ken says Claire's talking about getting up a petition. Tracy says there won't be any need for help from the Peacocks or the Croppers once her new brief gets on the case. "What new brief?" asks Ken in a worried tone. Tracy replies that she's sacked Rumpole of the Bailey. Ken's appalled. The man had a proven track record. Tracy snaps that he didn't get her bail and he hasn't bothered to come in and see her. She says Jane Symon is going to take her on, still on legal aid, and she specialises in domestic abuse cases. Ken's a bit more relaxed about that and Deirdre's very positive.

Fizz comes to fetch Chesney and sees Les still out of it on the sofa. "I've put a bucket there in case he throws up," Chesney tells her. But when Ches tries to lead Schmeichel out of the house, Fizz has to break it to him that the dog can't go. Kirk will look after him, she points out.

Visiting time is over. Tracy tells her parents she doesn't want them to go. She looks quite tearful. Ken tells her they need to stay strong and be patient. "If I can make it through prison, so can you," Deirdre tells her. They leave, with Deirdre giving one last look back. They're no sooner out of sight than Tracy's tears vanish and she pokes her cellmate in the shoulder. "Oy, Donna, you don't fancy swapping a manky friendship bracelet for a packet of chewy, do you?" Donna doesn't, so the friendship bracelet goes into the bin.

In the pub, Bill tells Sally and Kevin that he's going to be shacking up with Audrey. They're not impressed. Nearby, behind Claire, who's standing at the bar, Kelly is holding forth to the other factory workers about Charlie and Tracy. She thinks Tracy had legs and could have just walked out of there. Claire goes over to them and tells them it was self-defence. Kelly says it's a private conversation, but Claire says Kelly called her friend a murderer in a very public place. "God help us if you're ever on jury duty."

Ken and Deirdre are back home. Blanche is worried that Tracy won't be wrapping up warm. "She's only got the one kidney. She doesn't want to be getting cold in it." Deirdre tells them about the new lawyer. Peter thinks that sounds pricey, but Ken points out the new one is legal aid as well. Blanche puts her faith in British justice. Ken says it came through for Deirdre and it will for Tracy. "She'll be back in no time," Deirdre agrees. "Treating us all like dirt. Using this place like a hotel. I can't wait."

Fizz is determined to prove to Maria that Chesney's a clean, tidy, good house guest. But when Maria arrives, she's got Les with her. Les woke up and discovered all Chesney's stuff was gone. Fizz says that's because Ches has moved out. "I'm surprised you even noticed," Ches says bitterly.

Audrey arrives at Gail's, where she's greeted by a strangely smirking David. "You are so dead," he mutters as she heads for the kitchen. The stove might be on but the atmosphere is cool. Sally's been to tell Gail about Bill's new accommodation. "As you both can see, that family therapy was worth every penny," David sneers. Audrey tells Gail that Bill is a free man. Gail's appalled that Maureen's sent Bill packing. "What does it matter if I'm plan B?" asks Audrey. Gail thinks she should show a bit of self-respect. "This has got disaster written all over it."

Les doesn't think Chesney should move out. Fizz says he's old enough to know what he wants. "When you're not drinking, you're sleeping it off," Chesney points out. He says Les tried harder before he was Ches's dad – "It were better when you were just Uncle Les. You tried harder, then." Les points out that that was before Chesney's mum walked out on him. He's a broken man now. "He's a little kid," Fizz tells him. "He needs stability, vitamins, a clean school uniform." She tells Les that Chesney is stopping there until Les gets his act together. "Says who?" demands Les. "Me," says Chesney. Les tells him it was the dog whimpering at the front door that woke him up. Ohhhhhh. But Fizz points out this is sinking very low. Les offers Ches reheated Chinese food, but though he's tempted, Ches points out that Les will just be crashed out again tomorrow night. Les says he's starting afresh, but Fizz isn't convinced. "Talk's cheap," she tells him. "If you want him back, then prove it." Chesney looks very small and vulnerable.

The End

Margaret Carr

Well Tracy is banged up good and proper - and once again we move off the Street to the Big House where Dreary (former resident herself) and Ken are making use of visiting hours to ensure that they really are safe from their murderous daughter. Tracy is obviously in good mood starting the conversation with a "Don't even ask!". Apparently her lawyer is refusing to hand the case over to another legal firm (I assume he wants his day in court(!). A change in legal representative requires court approval and the earliest that can happen is the preliminary hearing. Tracy says there is a get out clause - they just have to meet the costs until the preliminary hearing. Tracy senses her parents' reluctance and does the Tracy equivalent of stamping her foot and crying "I am not having him Mum, I'm not". She wants Jane and she wants her NOW. Tracy carries on behaving worse than Amy. Ken wants to wait and see what the judge says but he forgets he is outnumbered by women and Dreary reminds him that it was waiting which caused this problem. Tracy wants to know if it is about money - he replies it is when you do not have very much. So she answers by saying she has to suffer a nightmare whilst he argues over a few pounds! Visiting time is over and Emily and Claire should be popping in soon - this seems to upset Tracy even more. She whines at Ken that she wants a proper lawyer and soon. Dreary assures her they will sort it out but Tracy cLiams to be more worried than when they arrived.

Les appears to be trying - and moaning to Kirk that he is doing women's jobs. After all it is bad enough having lost Cilla - he does not want to lose Chesney as well. Later Les tries to tempt Chesney back to help with decorating but Chesney says Fiz will have dinner ready and he has to do his homework - which Les says must be something new as he has never done it in the past. Chesney is trying harder at school. Les suggests a DVD and a laugh - but Chesney says no - Fiz will be wondering where he is.

Bill is moving out to Audrey and thanks Kev and Sal for putting him up. They expect a reward in his will - but he is not expecting that Audrey will wear him out quite that much. When Audrey arrives to pick Bill up, he emerges from the house to be treated to the sound of David sat in his car with the stereo playing full blast. 'Nothing like a nice quiet Sunday morning, eh?' he grimaces. Sally agrees, 'If it's this bad for us imagine what it's like in there for him.' Gail asks for it to be turned down but David does his deaf and blind act and ignores the request. And then seeing R'Audrey says that David is not the only one making a fool of himself. Audrey says there is no point in discussing it - but Bill walks over to talk to Gail. He is surprised as everyone else by events he tells Gail. And he probably does not deserve a second break - but being given one would be nice - not for his sake but for Audrey's. Gail huffs and says "Oh alright I suppose so".

And of course elsewhere on the Street Sarah is bemoaning all the work which Jason is turning down - and as Gail observes he now has a large family to support. I wonder when Jason will invite Bill to work with him? Of course Gail and Sarah will continue to snipe at each other in the meantime.

The Connor brothers, Liam and Paul argue over Carla - apparently the first order has sold well and a much bigger order is on its way - and it is using up half the Underworld staff. Later in the Rovers the brothers are completely outgunned by Carla who wants to use the factory at night for her production runs and completely over-rules both of them, as she reminds Paul why she does not have her own factory.

The Barlows are arguing over the solicitor. Peter states that he is with Ken - they should stick with the existing legal eagle, rather than employing a competent hot shot. Blanche snorts observes that for a Liberal, Ken can be awfully conservative at times. Adam reckons they can find the money between them but Ken does not think that is the point, although Dreary, with over-acting neck observes that is exactly the point. Peter is up to his eyes in debt and cannot help - and Adam's money is for his future (what future?). Blanche says it is shameful and they can use her money. Ken says that Tracy is his daughter and it is his responsibility (silly boy - take their money - this is going to go seriously wrong). Dreary tells Ken to see sense and when he does he will find the rest of the family in the pub!!

Along at the Rovers Dreary wants to know why Ken is being pig-headed (possibly because he senses that he is going to be very seriously out of pocket?). Blanche says her offer stands - and it is simply a case of getting the daughter back to her mother. Back at the Barlows Ken says that if they use Blanche and Adam's money it is like pouring it down the drain. Tracy is still pulling the strings by remote control he observes. Peter says he will try to get them back from the Rovers, where he does try to make peace - after all what happens if the judge does not accept the application for a change. Are they all going to run around like lunatics just to satisfy Tracy? Adam wants to know which side Peter is on - until Peter reminds Adam that Charlie had beaten him up. Peter says he is going to get a drink and they should all then return home. At the bar he stands next to Maria and asks if they have met. He tries to chat her up but gets the cold shoulder - she does not even give her name. He suggests maybe next time - but Maria says that he will have to take the risk. Blanche accuses him of fraternising with the enemy. He suggests they have a drink and go home - but Dreary wants Ken to concede by coming to the pub.

Claire visits Ken to report on progress with the petition. Ken explains about the change in lawyer. Claire is enthusiastic - whatever helps is important. However Ken is not taken by this and manages to upset Claire by pointing out that it is not a good time. Claire stomps out to the Rovers where she asks Maria to sign the petition. With little surprise Maria says she would trust Charlie over Tracy any time and tells her to take her bit of paper elsewhere.

Ken has been doing the sums - papers everywhere, and having taken stock Ken heads for the front door.

Fiz visits Les and tells him that Chesney is staying with her - Les's best was nowhere good enough and she will look after the child. She tells him off for having it off with Yana and now he is paying for it. Les just wants his family back. She calls him a rubbish Dad and that Chesney is NOT coming back to live in this pit.

Ken arrives in the Rovers and observes to Peter he has not managed to bring the family home. Ken tells them the proposal is reckless, stupid and against his better judgment - Dreary interrupts - it is not a proposal, it is supporting their daughter - which is why Ken is there he resumes - they will use his money - not Blanche's although they may need it soon enough. They will have to remortgage the house and undertake some equity release. Ken ends by saying it is a matter of principle - his daughter - his money. And what does he get for his trouble - a look from Dreary.

Hopefully by next week something other than Tracy will be relevant and reportable.

K Richard W

First Part

Barlow's; everyone sings happy birthday day to Blanche that she says was pathetic. She says she is not in the mood. Adam blows out her candles saying to make a wish. Blanche says you know what I want.

Salon flat; Maria asks if Cilla is back today. Fiz says yes and to expect fire works. Fiz then says Chez can go back as she is not his mum and he can't stay here. Chesney listens from the other room.

Grimshaw's; and Eileen says it's not Jason's business. Sarah says he is doing a better job than Charlie. Eileen goes to work. Jason asks for money so he can phone and find out what happens to a business when they died. Sarah says she better go and get Beth off to school.

Battersby's; Les and Kirk are cleaning. Kirk asks if Cilla will forgive him. He says she has been in Florida while he has suffered. Kirk says he did go off with Yana. Les says that's where they are even and says everything in the house of Battersby will be ok.

Kabin; Dev is shocked at his paper bill and asks for a reminder after a month. Rita asks Norris for help but he is busy on the computer. Blanche asks what day it is. Rita says Monday. Blanche says you have forgot and says its her birthday. Rita then surprises her with her card. Blanche says next year she could run to a stamp.

Outside Fiz sees Cilla who asks for money for the cab. Fiz says scrounging all ready. Cilla says he won't take dollars. She asks how Les is. She says he is falling apart. Cilla says excellent. Fiz asks if she has any morale. Cilla says he went off with her best mate and deserves the pain.

Battersby's; Cilla comes in, puts her coat over the stair banister. She then goes over to the money tin and takes out some money and puts the tin back.

Solicitor asks if they (The Barlows) have seen Tracy. They say yes and tell her it's her birthday on Wednesday. She says another reason to get her home. She tells them she can't take the case on as legal aid until the hearing and what the judge says. She tells them not to worry she won't change for this meeting and they can decided what they want to do. She offers them a coffee.

Outside Tyrone says Holly has his nose. He says he would love a kid. Jason says he has a lot of work and asks if he can take her. Tyrone asks why Sarah can't. He says she is working. Jason asks if Molly will but Tyrone says it's his kid.

Kabin; Cilla comes in saying she wants a toy for her boy. They are shocked to see her. She says she is sorry for lying and for getting revenge on her husband. Norris says he paid money. She offers to pay him back but he wont say. He finally says £1 and she says she is dying and that's all she is worth. She gives him and then Rita their money back.

Solicitors; and she says she would get Tracy out in a few days. Deirdre is happy. Ken asks what happens after the hearing and the judge says no to legal aid. She says either they go back to their original solicitor or they pay her and it would be up to 100 thousand.

Corner shop; Cilla says she knows they are watching her. Dev, Eileen and Tyrone say you did con us. She says Les did. They want an apology. Cilla says they moan about a few pennies while she is stuck with scars. She goes and Eileen says she wanted to see the scars.

Outside David says he was going to ask the boss if he can come in later. Maria says it's his gran, she will let him, and goes. Sarah comes out the Salon and David asks what's up with Maria. Sarah says she is upset about Charlie. David says he was a jerk. She says Maria didn't think that and went out with him and calls David a jerk. Kirk says good luck to Les as he goes in his home.

Battersby's; Cilla says she heard he was miserable. He says he's been working to pay everyone back and he says he was gutted when he thought she was dying. She says they are back together and his life is going to be miserable for now on.

Yard; Jason watches the cam and sees Sarah who he shouts to come up. He says he can't get anything done with Holly. The phone rings and he asks her to take over but she goes for the phone and says they will be on Friday. Jason asks her to take Holly and says she is a star.

Rovers; Les says he is not going back to work as they have some making up to do. Fiz comes in and asks were the bruises are but Cilla says they made up. She asks if he has told her about Chez. Kirk comes in saying the dog is gone. Les says it can't be far and they go to look for the dog.

Outside in Ken's car Deirdre says he is quiet. He says he wont be pushed into risking every penny and says he want the best for Tracy and wants her home. Deirdre asks but what and he says he hopes no one else in the family is going to need a top solicitor.

Kabin; Rita comes behind Norris and scares him. She says, if he is computer dating again she is taking it away. He says he is doing something better and tells her he is looking up old classmates. She asks why he'd want to do that. He says he wants to see what they made of their lives.

Battersby's; Fiz says she can't find the dog or Chez and says she will check her flat. Cilla asks why Chez would be there. Les says Fiz took Chez off him and he could not manage. Cilla says her son is living over the road and Les lost his dog. She tells him he better go look for the dog.

Salon flat; Kirk calls for the dog as Fiz calls for Chez. She goes into the bedroom and tells Kirk to come in here.

Outside Les asks Amber if Chez was in school. She says no. David sees Sarah with the baby and laughs. She says Jason is having a hard time and taking on the business single-handed and says Charlie was his best mate. David says why is it Charlie this and Charlie that. He suggests Jason and Maria start a fan club. Sarah asks who rattled his cage.

Battersby's household; Cilla asks how he could lose something as big as a horse and says it could be all the way to London by now. Fiz comes in saying he has run away. Cilla says to Les if the dog is dead under a bus he is going to explain it to Chez. Fiz says Chez has ran away.

This report is copyright M@nda

Amanda Souter
Welcome back to the second part of tonight's episode. Here in a rather chilly Britain, a cold wind and snow.

In the Battersby-Brown's, Cilla is astonished that Chesney can disappear. She says she is back for five minutes and the place falls apart. Fiz confirms that he hasn't been at school. They all go out to look for him.. Cilla offers to bring in the police, but she thinks they will consider that they are wasting police time, she does so, and then decides to wait in, in case they return.

Jason and Sarah are talking about Charlie. He has spoken to the police, and they will release the body once somebody cLiams it. However it seems there are no signs of anyone cLiaming it, not even his brother who they cannot find. Sarah asks what will happen if nobody cLiams it. Jason says that it will go to the local authority to bury him on the cheap.

In the Rovers, Joanne gives Blanche a birthday card. She begins to talk to Adam about Tracy, but when Deirdre comes in he brushes her off by telling her that he will speak to her later.

Deirdre tells Blanche and Adam how "wonderful" the new lawyer is. She refers to the press cuttings on the wall of the cases that she has won (she wouldn't display those that she has lost, would she?!). She says Ken is worried about the cost, but she has told him it is only for a few weeks until the Judge lets Tracy have her free on legal aid. Adam reminds her that the Judge may not grant legal aid. Deirdre retorts, that he will.

Back we go to Sarah and Jason. Sarah suggests that Tracy is probably the nearest to kin that Charlie had. They were practically married. Jason says he will talk to Ken and Deirdre about it. He wonders how he seems to have got himself lumbered with the baby and now a funeral.

Next we see Chesney and Schmeichel walking in the rain.

Liam is in the factory and asks the girls where Fiz is. Nobody knows where she is. So he says that he is on the warpath if she should turn up. Carla asks Kelly and Joanne to do some extra work.

Ken has been to a loan company. He confirms they are sending some forms. He says that is their nest egg blown in one fell swoop. What Jane, the lawyer earns in a week would keep them going for months. Ken is still worried that the Judge won't grant legal aid, and what would happen then. Deirdre says we accept her mother and Adam's offers. Deirdre thinks that Ken thinks that it is Tracy's fault. They are arguing so much, they don't realise that the doorbell has rung. Adam answers the door, it is Jason. He explains to Ken and Deirdre about the problems with releasing Charlie's body. He asks whether they or Tracy would want to cLiam the body. Deirdre says that the only reason they would want to cLiam the body is to spit on it. (Your reporter had to check with his wife that she said "spit" !)

The police come to visit Cilla. She is assured that looking for a boy with a dog won't be difficult to spot.

Chesney and Schmeichel try to get on a bus to Liverpool. However, the bus driver won't let Chesney on with his dog.

Jason wants to organise the funeral for Charlie. Eileen says he can't do that, but Jason says Charlie was his mate and he doesn't want the local authority to deal with it. Sarah defends him and tells Eileen to be proud of him. Eileen says she will look after Holly while he and Sarah go for a drink.

Fiz is on her motor scooter. She gets a call from Les to say that one of his colleague drivers has seen a boy with a dog. Fiz leaps into action and tells him she is on her way.

In the Rovers, Gail sees Claire on her own, but she tells Gail that she is waiting for Eileen (probably humming, 'Come on Eileen'). Then Gail spots Sarah and Jason and asks them where Bethany and Holly were. They explain that David is looking after Beth and Holly is being looked after by Eileen.

Claire feels an urgent need to tell Gail about Tracy's new solicitor. She tells her that she specialises in domestic violence (maybe she ought to pop into the Battersby-Brown's as well !). Sarah overhears the conversation and tells Claire that at least Tracy is still alive. Claire is not interested. Gail turns to Sarah and reminds her that Claire is Tracy's friend. Sarah responds that Jason was Charlie's friend, and he is going to sort out the funeral arrangements. Gail is surprised and asks why Jason is doing it, too which Sarah tells her that Charlie doesn't seem to have any family. Gail chirps back that they probably disowned him.

Back on the streets of Weatherfield, Fiz spots Chesney and Schmeichel. She calls to them, but Chesney just starts walking quicker. Fiz revs her bike to chase after him, but manages to fall off it. Chesney then comes over to ask if she is alright.

The house of the Grimshaws. Jason tells Eileen that the undertakers will be taking care of the arrangements for the funeral. They will settle their bill out of Charlie's estate (just hope he has left some money, and not bequeathed it to the cat's home !!). Jason says he will go through Charlie's address book and tell everybody that the funeral will be on Friday. Eileen thinks that he ought to tell them all about the circumstances of his death first. Jason doesn't look happy at that thought.

The not-so-injured Fiz asks Chesney why he came over to her. He tells her that he couldn't leave her thinking that she maybe hurt. He adds that running away isn't as easy as he had thought. Fiz wonders why he did run off in the first place. Chesney replies that he heard her and Maria talking about getting rid of him. Fiz explains that the arrangement was only supposed to be temporary. She says things will be better now that Cilla has returned. That is the reason why he doesn't want to go back explained Chesney. Fiz says there is not enough room in the flat for him to stay permanently. Les then arrives and greets him, but Chesney just marches by and gets into the car.

Steve is in the back room of the Rovers reading a story to Amy. Michelle comes in and is impressed with the way Steve is handling the kid. She tells Steve that she believes Tracy will get off. Steve is concerned about Amy, when she is old enough to realise that her mum could have been a .......Michelle tells him not to worry. He will be a good dad. She cLiams that he can be rather insecure for someone as cocky as him. Steve says that he knew that the complements wouldn't last. Michelle replies that, that was a complement. Then Sonny comes in through the door (makes a change from the window!). Steve asks if they are going somewhere posh. Sonny says they are going back to Michelle's to watch a film with Ryan.

Back home with Mrs Battersby-Brown, Chesney, Fiz and Les arrive. Cilla immediately yells that she knew he would be back. She tells him that he is rather selfish making everyone worried about him. Fiz then reminds her that she got everyone worried when she pretended she was dying. Chesney then says that he is not stopping, he only came in because he and Schmeichel were hungry. Cilla then points to the table and tells Chesney that she has brought him back a present from Florida. He opens it to see it is a toy car and says that they sell the same thing in the Kabin. Chesney tells Cilla that she is continually lying. Cilla yells back at him that he should get it off his chest, and Chesney tells her that she is a rubbish mother. She then tries to focus the blame onto Les. Fiz then says she will take Chesney home. Les tries to plead with him to stay with his mum and dad. Chesney replies that Les isn't his dad. He says he doesn't consider Cilla to be his mum either. Chesney then walks out of the door, bag in hand to go to with Fiz.

Stand by, the next report should be from Anne - coming to a desktop near you - soon !

Martin Rosen

Hi everyone, here's the update for Wednesday 24th January, sorry it's a little late.

Norris meets Chesney outside the Kabin and seems quite concerned for his welfare. He tells him he knows Chesney's one of the better paperboys, and he and Rita do care even though it doesn't always look like that.

Just then Claire comes along, she's getting signatures on a birthday card for Tracy. Sarah comes along, but won't sign, she tells Claire that Tracy killed Jason's best mate. Claire says everybody knows it was self defence. She looks at Norris, but he makes excuses to avoid signing, he doesn't want to be seen to be taking sides.

Through her front window, Cilla watches Chesney go past, on his way to school. She tells Les that Fiz must have brainwashed Ches into staying with her. "Why else would he turn his back on his mother?" she asks.

Ken finds Deirdre sniveling. It's Tracy's 30th birthday, they should be planning a big party, and teasing her about her age. Ken says that the party is only on hold, the solicitor is pretty confident. Just then there's a knock at the door, it's Claire with Tracy's card. She gives it to Ken and Deirdre so they can take it in with them when they visit Tracy. She gives them the petition too, to give the solicitor, to put to best use.

Tracy, meanwhile, is being introduced to her new cell mate, and the warder gives her an envelope. "Someone's opened this!" she protests. The warder reminds her she's in prison, "We don't want you having a Class A party after lights out," he says. He asks if the card is from her bloke, but Tracy tells him it's from her brother. "Oh yeah, topped the boyfriend, didn't you?" he says. Tracy tells him she's innocent, she was defending herself. "Like everybody else in here," he smirks.

As Fiz is making Chesney his packed lunch for school, he wanders into the bathroom, only to come out again double quick – Maria is in there taking a shower. (Goodness knows why she didn't lock the door!) She comes out after him, wrapping a towel around herself, and moans to Fiz that he walked in on her. Chesney gets very down, saying he knew he shouldn't have come back. The girls then try to cheer him up. "Maria was saying how she loves having you here," says Fiz, but Chesney doesn't look convinced.

Deirdre and Ken are visiting Tracy. She's not impressed with the lack of names on the petition, and looks decidedly underwhelmed at her card. She looks considerably brighter though, when she tells them that the new lawyer is coming to see her soon. Deirdre then tells her that Jason is organising Charlie's funeral. Tracy seems quite put out, convinced Jason will make a complete mess of it. "He couldn't organise a round of drinks," she tells them.

Norris is telling Rita how pleased he is at having contacted his old friends through the website 'Classmates Reunited", but she can't see why anyone would want to get in touch with people they haven't seen for years. He says just their names conjure up wonderful memories. "Just think about what you shared with your school friends," he says. "Nits," says Rita, "chicken pox, even food poisoning once." Just then Maria comes in, Norris knows she didn't sign the petition. He tells her he doesn't think there'll be many at Charlie's funeral. "Why shouldn't there be," says Maria, "he didn't do anything to either of you two!" She tells them that Charlie wasn't as bad as people think, and he didn't deserve to die in such a horrible way. Just then, David, who has come in, turns around and rushes straight out. Maria goes after him.

Outside, she catches up with him, and he tells her that Charlie wouldn't be dead now if it wasn't for him. Maria says it has nothing to do with David, but he tells her that Charlie tried to drown him, which caused Maria to tell Tracy about her and Charlie, which is why Tracy killed him. Maria looks amazed and repeats that it was nothing to do with him. David tells her she must have known what kind of psychopath Charlie was, he tried to drown him. He asks if she's going to the funeral, and says he'll come with her.

Michelle and Violet are walking down the Street. Violet wants to get back to work, but Liz won't let her, she says she needs more time off. Just then Jason rushes over to them and asks Violet if she'll look after Holly, he has some work on. She says she'll love to.

Tracy's solicitor has come to see her. Tracy asks if she can go to Charlie's funeral. The solicitor says she doesn't see why not, she's only on remand. She tells Tracy's she's the real victim and she shouldn't feel guilty about anything.

Kirk is in the chippy getting chips. As Cilla serves him they discuss Fiz. Cilla asks if she's down the pub with her mates but Kirk says she's at home, trying to catch up with the washing. Cilla's sure that Fiz won't do it properly and everything will be turned pink or shrunk. She tells Kirk to tell Fiz that if she's going to look after her son, she'd better do it 'proper'. Just then Yana comes in. Cilla turns and slaps her. After that everything seems to be sorted out between them and they carry on as if nothing has happened.

Norris is trying to jog Rita's memories with the names of friends from her childhood. Rita, however, cannot be tempted to want to get in touch with any of them. Eventually however, she says she wouldn't mind getting in touch with old friends from the club scene. Norris promises to try to find them.

Tracy is still talking to the solicitor. She says that she misses Amy and the solicitor says she'll try to get bail. The solicitor says although witness statements are helpful, what really matters is what happened on that one night. Tracy says that Charlie came at her with the knife and she was just trying to defend herself. The solicitor says she's been in court when the guilty have gone free and the innocent have been convicted, there are no guarantees. If the jury don't believe her she could be facing a life sentence.

In the pub, Les tells Michelle that Cilla is having to work very hard to get back into his good books. Just then Cilla comes rushing in with Yana. "Get 'm in," she snaps, and then goes to sit alone with Yana at a table. Yana asks Cilla if she and Les are ok now. Cilla tells her that if he puts one foot wrong again he'll be walking funny. Yana asks if it's true that Chesney is living with Fiz. Cilla blusters that they just wanted some kid-free quality time.

Fiz arrives home to find Chesney making a jam sandwich. He tells Fiz there's nothing else in. She says he needs proper food and she's going to go to Freshco's to get some. He asks if it's ok to stay. She tells him there's one condition, he mustn't sneak up on Maria in the bathroom again!

Norris joins Rita in the pub and tells her he's looked up 'exotic dancers' on the internet, and although it took some time he's found Charlie Rosco's dancers for her. He hands her the list of names, and there's one she remembers. Norris tells her that Doreen Fenwick is still alive and she could get in touch with her. Rita doesn't want to do that, in case she's now a drooling old biddy.

Ken and Deirdre are home and having a stiff drink. Jane Simon, the solicitor, phones and tells Ken that Tracy wants to go to the funeral. Deirdre is dead set against the idea, but Ken says they have no choice, they have to go for Tracy's sake.

In her cell, Tracy is talking to her cell mate. The cell mate tells her she'll be having lots more birthdays in there. Tracy says she's innocent, so that is just not going to happen, but looks a little uncertain as she says it.

Anne Logan.

As Liam zooms up to work in his sports car, Kelly confesses to Joanne that she's planning to become his girlfriend, just as Leanne did with Danny. Joanne is not so sure it will be as easy as Kelly thinks.

In the Battersby-Brown household, Les is lamenting the quiet in the mornings without Ches. Cilla says it's a rest from having to get him ready for school. Kirk points out that most of the time she was still asleep and Ches got himself ready. Oh, if they could only harness the vicious energy in the look Cilla gives Kirk, there would be no need to invent new ways of shooting down redundant satellites! She thinks Chesney will be begging to come back home by the end of the week.

In Fizz's flat, however, Chesney is earning his keep, finishing drying up the dishes and finding his big sister's lost phone. Fizz seems a bit disorganised and sends Chesney off to Roy to get the right change for his bus fare. She tells Maria, who is still in her robe (more of an undressing gown, really), that she can't understand why Maria is bothering with the funeral when it will only upset her. Maria says she loved Charlie once. She's going to the funeral and that'll be an end of it.

Deirdre is tossing a ball around the yard for the dog. She tells Ken she's not wearing black. He points out that if they're only going for Tracy, then they'll have to at least seem confident, otherwise there's no point. Deirdre promises not to look as anxious as Tracy will be.

Tracy is anxiously putting on her make-up - not! She's as cool as a cucumber and her cellmate points out that if she's to look properly remorseful she'll have to go easy on the slap. Tracy's busy scraping off her lippy with a tissue when an officer comes in and she quickly makes out she's dabbing away tears with the tissue. She's offered a chance to see the doctor to get something for her nerves, but turns it down, saying she wants to keep a clear head. "It's hard to pull off the whole unstable-battered-wife thing," Andrea tells her when the officer has gone. "The courts have seen it all before." "Not from me, they haven't," Tracy assures her.

Sarah is at Charlie's yard, tears in her eyes, when David comes to tell her the cab is here. As they get into it with Jason, the driver is having a vicious argument over whether or not to tell his stepson that they miss him. Yes, it's Les. "I'm not going groveling to a kid!" Cilla shouts back, before Jason reminds Les they're going to a funeral.

Steve offers to get Michelle a drink later, and maybe even a kebab, but she's seeing Sonny. And Liz refuses to let him put the money for his beer in the till later, saying she wants her books straight. Seems like it's not his day. He's bitter. "Whatever happened to buy your own pub, Steve. Think of all the free beers, Steve. The barmaids will be all over you, Steve!" Nearby, Kelly plans to go over and join the Connor clan, though Joanne thinks she should try playing hard to get. Liam takes a break from teasing Carla about what Paul's planning for their wedding anniversary and goes to get more drinks. Liz lets him know that Kelly and Joanne seem to have formed "a bit of a fan club." Kelly gets up to go and fix her make-up, giving Liam the eye as she hustles past. He catches Joanne's eye and grins. Uh oh.

In the chapel, the very few mourners are gathering and Jason's trying to find someone who wants to say a few words, though no-one does. Ken and Deirdre walk in, which upsets David, Maria, Sarah, Jason and the other four mourners, apparently drinking pals of Charlie's. Tracy arrives with an accompanying officer and gasps when she sees the coffin.

Charlie's four pals are loudly discussing who Tracy is, so Deirdre and Ken get up and go sit by her. David, who shows promise as a future replacement for Blanche, suggests Tracy could sing. "She could sing, 'Hit me, baby, one more time'," he smirks, just before being smacked by Sarah, who tells him to have some respect. "What, for that pig?" It's too much for Jason, who suddenly decides to get up and say something.

Hayley arrives at the cafe to find Roy in the middle of the rush with no Becky and a complicated telephone order. Fizz thinks the Croppers let people take advantage of them. At their table, she tells Kirk that Chesney is costing her the earth and she'd love a night in the pub. Becky rushes in late, full of apologies, and Hayley realises she's come out in the freezing cold without a coat. Someone at the hostel robbed it, she tells them. [free lecture on the proper use of "robbed" and "stole" deleted for reasons of space]. Roy thinks that now Becky has a job she should consider moving out of the hostel. "Where to?" she asks, setting to with the dishwashing. To get a flat she'd need the first month's rent and a month's deposit.

Back at the chapel, Deirdre and Ken are assuring Tracy she'll be home soon, when Jason starts to talk about Charlie, who was not just his boss but one of his best mates. He puts his hand on the coffin. "I'll miss you, Charlie boy." Maria weeps buckets. Those few words from Jason are the only farewell Charlie is getting. As the curtains close, Maria can stand it no longer and rushes out, shouting at Tracy, "Happy now?" Tracy spits back that this is all Maria's fault, "you evil cow," only to be hushed by her parents.

David runs after Maria. "What are you crying for? You know what he were like!" Maria tells him she knows Charlie did some terrible things, but he didn't deserve all this. David puts an arm around her and suggests they go home. Tracy comes out and Deirdre hugs her before she is put back into the van. They are followed out of the chapel by Charlie's posse, who now number five, plus the vicar, who said nothing that we heard during the funeral. "Murdering bitch!" spits one of the posse (no, not the vicar). "What did you call me?" Tracy asks aggressively, before reining herself in and asking her parents to look after Amy for her. Deirdre breaks down and Ken hugs her. Jason doesn't think it's much of a send-off, and Sarah suggests they go. "It's all over now."

Chesney, on his way home from school, meets his mum outside the chippy. She tells him his Uncle Les is devastated. She's surprised Ches is even talking to her if she's such a bad mother. Chesney says he didn't want to hurt either of them. "I just think it's easier this way, that's all," he says, shrugging his shoulder.

Down the street he meets Maria and David. "How was it?" he asks. "Are you coming up?" He sounds as if he's her kindly uncle. She thanks David as she goes to follow Ches into the flat. David says, casually, that she can buy him a fry-up and they'll be even. She turns away and it's clear from David's face that he's not given up hope of winning Maria's heart.

In the factory office, Liam is busy organising to go out for Japanese food with someone called Richard. Apparently it means there will be an order in the bag. Paul doubts it. He wants to come along, though Liam points out that it's Paul's wedding anniversary. Liam wants to know when Paul will ever trust him, but Paul replies that it's Richard Lyle he doesn't trust.

Fizz is cooking dinner, though it's taking a very long time to produce liver and bacon, jacket potato and macaroni cheese. The recipe's from a pamphlet they've been giving out at Chesney's school- New healthy eating ideas for parents. Kirk tells Fizz she's doing a brilliant job with Ches, but she doesn't know how long she'll last doing it.

Even though they seemed to separate in the street, David and Maria are just finishing their fry-up in a cafe that isn't Roy's. She tells him the whole thing was a real shock, but David asks her to stop going on about Charlie.

At Roy's, Hayley and Roy tell Becky they've decided to have a car boot sale and the proceeds will go towards Becky's deposit. She can't believe it. She hugs them so hard their heads almost smash together.

Back to the Rovers now, where it's Friday night and Kelly has her lucky knickers on. Joanne is thankful Kelly's wearing knickers at all. She's fed up with Kelly going on and on about Liam. Carla is at the bar and Michelle comes in looking absolutely stunning. "You don't have to get dressed up just to play darts with me, you know," Steve points out. She says, in a posh voice, that she and Sonny are going to the theatre and then to one of Manchester's finest restaurants. "Yes, but does it have a dartboard?" Steve asks, prompting Liz to tell him to give it a rest. Michelle has found her Romeo. Carla points out that she finds herself all alone and in desperate need of male company. Steve thanks her for the offer, "but, if I'm honest. . . you absolutely terrify me." Kelly is still going on about Liam and gets up to ask Carla where Paul and Liam are. She's told they're in town somewhere. A deflated Kelly slumps back down beside Joanne. Sonny comes in and sweeps Michelle off to the theatre. "Take away his charm, his money and his fancy suits and what has he got left, eh?" Steve asks bitterly. He looks at Liz and Carla. "Either of you say 'me' and you're barred!"

David and Maria are on Maxine's bench. Maria says this has all made her think about her own life. She's not sure 18 perms a week and drinks in the Rovers are enough. David points out that all her mates are there, and he's there. "I don't think I could stand it around her if you weren't." Maria tells him not to be stupid. He leans in as if to kiss her. "What are you doing? You off your head? You're a kid!" David points out that his age is a lot closer to hers than Charlie's was. "Get away from me!" she says, horrified. "So you won't come near me, but you were happy to jump into bed with that psychopath," he snaps. He tells her that Charlie tried to kill him, but she's boo-hooing over his coffin. Maria asks if that's what his support today has been all about -trying to become her boyfriend. "Get away from me, you freak!" she rages and storms off, leaving David practising a look very similar to Cilla's satellite-death-ray look from earlier on.

The End

Margaret Carr

David is sitting in his car ignoring his mother. Poor Gail - does she really feel that abortion might not have been a better solution? Anyway he is an hour late for work (has he left school - I thought he went back when he decided that it was safer than getting beaten up by the late Charlie Stubbs. Anyway Gran will sack him unless he turns up today. Eventually he skulks into work, giving Audrey a shock - before she offers to give him one more chance. Audrey goes to buy biscuits and Maria turns on David - finally decided to come to work then? David wants to apologise in private and she tells him not to worry about it and that nothing happened. She tells David she cannot believe he would be interested in her (oh come on Maria, his hormones are going a 100 to the dozen and you tend to wander around demonstrating your obvious assets - just because Kirk does not know what a hormone is!). She tells him that what he wanted last night is not going to happen in a million years.

Carla is telling Paul off - apparently the previous night he was out without her - and it was their eighth wedding anniversary and she is not amused that he was not with her. Anyway it is apparently a Saturday and the factory girls are working for Carla, not Liam and Paul, and she is planning to take them out to show her appreciation. The girls seem interested although Joanna cLiams she has a date with Adam whilst Liam points out that she is supposed to be celebrating the wedding anniversary tonight with Paul. Anyway it would appear that Kelly and Joanna are going along this evening as well.

Violet has been let holding Jason's baby - but Eileen has to go to work and cannot take the baby. Sean will be back soon - he has been sending texts in the middle of the night keeping them all awake (have they not found out that you can turn a mobile phone off completely - especially needed to allow a baby to sleep).

Back at the salon Blanche arrives for her appointment but soon tells Maria that she will not have Charlie Stubbs concubine touching her head under any circumstances. Blanche tells Audrey that she would prefer David to Maria! The dispute continues - and David adds his contribution - Charlie got what was coming to him, the world is a better place without scum like that thinking they own the place, it is a shame he was cremated, otherwise I could have danced on his grave and I hope he rots in hell (David obviously has a strong streak of forgiveness in his character). Audrey tells David off for his behaviour. She expects proper decorum whilst at work. He checks that Maria is listening and then tells Audrey that Charlie tried to drown him. Maria wants to know why he is telling these stories - David wants her to know that Charlie may be dead but he was not a saint. David kept is secret because he was scared - Maria says she told Tracy about the affair, but not about David being nearly drowned. Maria apologises. Audrey sends David home to tell Gail about the events. Of course Blanche has heard every word and reminds them that this is a murder investigation. Later Deirdre, better known to update readers as Dreary, bursts in on Gail and David to find out the truth and to demand the police are told. Gail wants to get the facts clear first - but Dreary is keener on getting Tracy released rather than the impact on David.

Les is trying to rebuild his relationship with Chesney and asks him for a game of football, but the latter prefers watching tv. After some bribes from Fiz Chesney goes to play football. After the football Les asks Chesney if he will come back home - but no, the affair with Yana has upset Chesney. Chesney does not want to be a grown up and wants to be treated as a child - which is how Fiz is treating him.

The Connor night out seems to being going well. Liam tells a story of how a girl once had his name tattooed on her backside. Kelly is taken by the story but Carla explains that it was Liam Gallagher that the girl liked. Liam denies it. Paul is getting agitated at the silly conversation and whispers to Carla that the two of them should head off into Chinatown. Carla declines the offer, explaining that she and the girls have planned to hit the bars and she asks Paul for money so that the girls don't have to pay. Liam decides to head for home and Kelly jumps at the chance of a lift home. Joanne joins them. Paul and Carla are on their own - and a bottle of champagne appears plus some cheesy musicians to serenade them.

Back on the Street David has stormed out of the house - and in front of Maria he tells them all that there is more. "I saw it". David cLiams to have seen Tracy kill Charlie. He turns to Maria and says "I saw it all". Deirdre wants to know why David said nothing. David of course kept quiet because he did not see anything! Anyway all Deirdre can see is a "get out of jail free" card for Tracy. Gail asks David is it true? He responds that no-one ever believes what he says. Deirdre is keen to get the police but David storms off saying they can tell the whole world for what he cares. Gail says she will talk to them and if true take him to the police.

Liam drops the girls off at the Rovers. Kelly departs rapidly but Joanne offers thanks and ask Liam where he is going - into town for a drink with mates.

Sean returns from his holiday and is pleased to see everyone, particularly Violet who has had no friendly company in his absence and she breaks down.

David is back in his car with music at full power. Maria wants to know what is going on - but he insists he is telling the truth. David says Charlie is dead and now he is free to do just what he wants to do and no-one can stop him now. And David turns the stereo up to full volume and she is drowned out by the noise

See you all next week.

K Richard W

First Part

Platt's; Sarah says David is lying. Gail say she will talk to him and make sure he knows it will be in front of a judge. Sarah says he could get done for perjury. Audrey asks Gail if she wants her to talk to David but she says no. David listens to them from the table.

Outside Fiz gets Chez ready to go to school. Les asks him to come round later so they can sort things out. He says ok. Steve comes out the Rovers and asks Ken about Tracy. He says they are hoping she will be out in a few hours. Ken sees Audrey and Sarah who tell him just to go in.

Platt's; Ken asks Gail if there is any new developments. She says David is saying the same thing but will let him know as soon as she has talked to him. He thanks her and goes and Gail says David. She looks around but he is not there.

Back garden; David is looking into no.6 and the place is a mess. Gail comes out asking what he is doing. He says he is just looking as Charlie won't mind. She tells him to come back.

Cafe; Roy and Hayley have taken down some stuff for Becky. Roy says he is going to keep the comics and ray gun. Becky comes in and thanks them for the stuff. She sees the comics and he tells her they are very fragile. Hayley goes and Becky shouts thanks.

Interview room the solicitor tells Tracy she has got her bail. Tracy is happy. She tells Tracy she had to convince the judge she won't run away or intimidate witnesses. She says they are all on her side and asks why she would do that.

Platt's; David says he was kicking his ball about and it went over the fence and that's when he saw what happed. Gail asks him if he knows that is going to happen next. She says he will have to answer lots of questions and a judge is going to try and catch him out. She says she wishes he was lying.

Factory; Sean asks if there is any gossip. Kelly says Liam fancies her. He comes over saying he got the deal so they have lots to do and goes. They don't think he likes her as Kelly says he wont show it in front of them.

Barlow's; Deirdre is on the phone and she is all excited as she tells Ken Tracy will be out in half an hour. Ken goes to get the door. Gail says David is sticking with his story but she has mixed feelings. Ken tells her to come in as they have the number. David watches from his window.

Outside Tracy pulls up in a taxi with her solicitor. She shows her the house it happened. She says she could stay somewhere else but Tracy says she will look the other way and gets out. She looks up and down the street as Maria give her the eve eye. Tracy goes inside.

Battersby's; Les says they have to tempt Chez back and suggests they give him sausage and chips. Cilla says he will be wanting that every day then. Les says its just till they get him back. He says he will get the sausages and all he is asking is she speaks nice to him while he is eating them.

Barlow's; Tracy says the prison was like a mad house. She says she just wants to have a shower and get out of her clothes. Ken says he has something to tell her but she says she is going for a shower and when she comes back she wants to hear about Amy.

Cafe; Hayley has got some kickers for Becky for her car boot sale. Hayley asks Roy if he is still keeping the comics. He says he is going to give them to someone who would have an interest in them. He says they are worth a bit and says they will spend the money on something for them.

Factory; Kelly goes to see Liam and says thanks for last night but says it was crowed with Joanne. He says she is quiet, discreet. He says some people can't take a hint. The phone rings and he says he was enjoying their conversation. When she comes out, Fizz says he has told her to get lost.

Salon; Sarah has a go at Maria for not saying what happened to David. She says he should have told someone. Audrey tells them to shut up as people come for piece and quiet. She says they don't even know if it's true so they should not be shouting it out. They both agree.

Streetcars; Tracy says she is out on bail and can't stand going back. He says she won't as they are all on her side and everyone knows what Charlie was like. She says the judge doesn't then asks how Amy is. He says she is fine and says anything else she needs she just has to ask.

Station; Gail asks David if he can stand up to a judge and jury. He says yes and that she said all this. Gail says she does not seem to be getting through to him. He suggest he says nothing and Tracy goes to prison. She gives him a look and goes up to the desk and gives her name.

Battersby's; Cilla says she won't go begging. Les says just say sorry for saying she was dying. Chez who is listening after opening the door tells Fiz he does not want to go in. Fiz goes in saying Chez won't and tells them they have messed it up again as he heard them argue.

Factory; Liam says he was just thinking about Joanne and there she is. He says he told Kelly she was quiet and discreet. She says she can be and he kisses her. He asks if he is keeping her from her mates and she says no and kisses him.

Office; the two detectives says you have something to tell us about Charlie. He says yeah and that he saw the hold thing. They say what and David says he saw Tracy kill Charlie.

Barlow's; Tracy says Steve is going to pick up Amy. Deirdre says are you going to tell her. Tracy says tell me what. Ken says there is a witness who saw what happened. Tracy looking a bit shocked tries to smile and says who. Ken says David.

This report is copyright M@nda

Amanda Souter

We take up the story with Ken warning Tracy not to talk with David as it could be constituted that she was interfering with a witness. Never letting a minor thing like the law stop her, she goes and knocks at his door. There is no reply. Ken suggests that he is at school. Tracy remarks that he is never at school.

In the Underworld factory, Joanne is called into the office by Liam. She tells him that she is with Adam. However Liam is also headstrong and says that he has had a "bite of the apple" and now wants to finish it. However, he pulls back for a moment and says it is very unprofessional of him, and that it won't happen again. He says he is not trying to sexually harass her .... next moment they are kissing !

There is a stranger in the midst. A new woman comes into Roy's Rolls. Dev is in there chatting to Roy, but he immediately turns his attention to this new woman. He introduces himself. She asks where she might find Charlie Stubbs. At this point Dev makes his excuses and leaves Roy to inform her of the news.

Tracy is still on her quest to find David. She goes into the salon and speaks to Sarah. Tracy wants to know if it is right that David saw what happened. She wonders how, because she says it all happened indoors. Now Audrey joins into the conversation and says that he was in the back garden and he saw everything through the window.

Gail and David are down in the police station. Just before they approach the desk, Gail asks David one last time if he is telling the truth. She warns him of the serious consequences if he is lying. He says he is not, so they go in to be interviewed. They are taken to an interview room. David explains that he saw Charlie rooting through the kitchen draw. He could not hear any of the conversation, but voices were raised. Then Charlie took out a knife and shouted "I'll kill you, you bitch", he saw Charlie going towards the front room and heard Tracy scream, and then it all went quiet.

Back at The Rovers, the new woman comes into the Rovers. Dev is there propping up the bar and light-heartedly suggests to her that she is stalking him. He presumes Roy has told her about Charlie, and now he is trying to find out why she wants to see him. He enquires if she is a relative, and she tells him she is not. When she finishes her drink she asks Dev for his newspaper. He says he has finished with it and gives it to her. She then takes it to her grandfather who is sitting at one of the tables. Dev calls out his name to her, but she doesn't reciprocate with her name.

Tracy is staring out of the window looking for David. Deirdre suggests that she has no need to keep looking out for him. Tracy sees it differently, and says that he has her future in his evidence.

The new woman (woman-without-a-name) goes to see Jason after Roy told him that he was running the yard. (Just out of interest - can any of the older readers determine whether this is supposed to be the same yard that was owned by Len Fairclough, Ray Langton and Jerry Booth ?). She tells him that Charlie was paid upfront to refit the shop on the corner of Victoria Street. Holly is exercising her tonsils, and Jason says he cannot speak. She wants to know if Jason is going to do the job as he seems to have his hands full with the baby. Otherwise she wants her money back. Jason says he is perfectly capable of doing it.

In Audrey's hairdressers, she and Maria are chatting. On reflections Maria feels she ought to have mentioned the incident when Charlie tried to submerge David in a bath of water. She thought she was protecting David. Audrey tells her that she was doing more to protect herself and Charlie. Maria is insistent that she was trying not to embarrass him.

At the police station (evenin' all !) the detectives ask David why he didn't mention anything about the murder before. He says he was scared. He thought that if Charlie survived, he would be after him. David tells them that one time he tried to drown him, which Maria saw. Then there was the time when he was dragged into the back of a van, but Liam saw that and Charlie let him go.

Back at the Barlows, things are not going smoothly. Tracy is on edge pacing the floor. Ken and Deirdre don't understand what is wrong, she should be pleased to be back. Tracy explains that they will not believe David and they will try to rip his evidence apart when he gets to court.

Another one on edge is Roy. He needs to get down to the car boot sale to retrieve the fifty two issues of Eagle comics and the ray gun that Becky has taken by accident. Hayley wonders if she knows the value of the comics. Roy says he wouldn't have thought so, but then he remembers he was talking to Dev about their value as she was going off.

The woman-without-a-name tells Jason that she insists that he starts work tomorrow. She wants to see signs of definite progress by the end of the week. Jason says he will do.

Gail and David arrive home from the police station. Gail says she is going to see Audrey. Maria sees David arrive back. She wants to know what happened down at the police station. David tells her that he told them everything including the fact that she was having an affair with Charlie. He tells her that she should expect a call from the police.

Jason is walking with Holly past the bakery when the woman-without-a-name comes out. He takes the opportunity to ask her if she is worried about the competition, particularly from the chip shop. She explains her chips will be better, and besides she will be selling more than chips. They part as she reminds him that she is due to meet up with him tomorrow. Hayley then comes by. Little Holly is crying, but within a minute Hayley is able to comfort her and she stops crying. She asks Jason about the woman, to which Jason says she is starting up a fast-food business there. Hayley looks upset and says Roy won't like that.

In the Rovers the woman-without-a-name returns after having been out to do a few things. She goes over to her grandfather. Dev tells him that he can keep the newspaper, and the grandad says "thanks chief". Dev takes that to be a racist comment. She explains that he is not very good at remembering names and therefore calls everyone "chief".

Tracy asks Deirdre for Gail's telephone number, but Deirdre tells her to wait until after tea. They are all still wondering why David didn't come forward earlier.

Becky returns to the cafe looking very pleased with herself. She has bought herself a new coat out of the proceeds. Roy asks her if she returned empty handed, but she says no, she still has about six pounds left. Then Roy broaches the subject of his comics. Becky tells him that a bloke offered her £20 for them. She says she was a bit suspicious of him. He then offered her £40. However as he wanted to pay by cheque she wasn't going to let him have them. Therefore she has brought them back. At which point the taxi driver brings in a box. She tells Roy that he got the guy's business card. She suggests Roy rings him and he may even be able to get a bit more.

The police now arrive on the Street. The two detectives decide they are going each interview one witness. She goes to see Liam, while he goes to see Maria. He asks her about her relationship with Charlie Stubbs and the bathroom incident with David.

Roy is now on the phone to the dealer. He confirms he has the first fifty two editions of The Eagle in mint condition and a ray gun. Becky comes over to Roy and asks how much. He covers the phone and says fifteen hundred pounds. She starts yelling that she is made up for him.

Over at the factory Liam is asked about the van incident and David. He said that he saw David being dragged out of the house and being thrown in to the back of the van. Fearing that he was about to be kidnapped, Liam opens the back door of the van and David jumps out. Charlie explained that he was just trying to scare him. When asked why he would do this, Liam doesn't know.

Tracy finally meets up with David. She, of course, wants to know what happened at the police station. He says he told them that he saw everything. Tracy is not sure whether to believe him or not. She tells him that Deirdre had told her that Charlie had tried to drown you. When he confirms that is correct, she then says that he must therefore know how she felt and why she had to do what she did. They talk about the incident, but at the same time they are confirming they each have the same story. She is very grateful because he can save her from going to prison. David then asks how the police would react to her talking to a "star witness". At that point, unknown to Tracy the policewoman is coming out of the factory with Liam. David tells her that and she grabs him and they rush into the house, so she cLiams they won't jump to the wrong conclusions.

In the house, Tracy and David once again run over the whole story. They find one discrepancy. He doesn't know for sure what she hit him with. She tells him that she hit with an ornament - twice. David says that is what he thought, but wasn't certain ! She then describes exactly what happened as Charlie fell to his knees. She believes that David wouldn't have been able to see that. He said he heard it. Tracy is a little suspicious because she had turned the music up loud to drown out the argument.

As David is about to leave she tells him not to let her down as they will both be in trouble.

Now who is going to break first, will the police think that someone has weak evidence? Anne continues the story, next.

Martin Rosen

Deirdre steps out of the Kabin and sees David coming along. She hugs him and thanks him for what he's doing, saying he's their star witness. He looks a little alarmed and says he's only telling the police what he saw.

In the cafe, Roy and Hayley tell Becky they think they know what they're going to spend their 1500 pounds on, that they got from the sale of the rare comics, but they're keeping it secret for now. Becky says she would go on holiday, but Hayley says it's not a holiday, but Roy says that the word 'traveler' could be applied.

Steve arrives at the Barlow's with Amy's toy monkey. Tracy thanks him for looking after Amy while she was away. (He's her father – does he need to be thanked for looking after his own child?) Steve says he loved having Amy, "Besides," he adds, "I'll probably get to spend a lot more time with her if……" Tracy is not amused, "If I go down for twenty years?" Steve blusters that isn't what he meant, and Deirdre insists that Tracy isn't going anywhere, they now have a witness in David Platt. Steve tries to suggest that, if the worst came to the worst, maybe they should sit down and discuss what's best for Amy. Tracy gets even crosser, "You can go now," she says. Steve goes, but Tracy doesn't look so confident any more. "At the end of the day it's down to the jury," she tells Ken and Deirdre. She tells them that there are times when she feels really worried. Deirdre fumes, "I could kill that Steve MacDonald!" Ken and Tracy look at her, "Well….not literally of course," she mumbles.

In the Grimshaw household, Eileen is worried that Jason is doing all the extra work and may not get paid. She's also worried that, as he's not qualified he might do something wrong and end up on 'Builders from Hell'. Jason thanks her for her vote of confidence and goes off, leaving her holding the baby.

Steve goes back to the Barlow's and apologises for upsetting Tracy earlier. She asks if he's seen Amy's toy bunny, but he says he hasn't. She goes back in and tells Deirdre and Ken that she's remembered that the bunny is at the house, and intends to go back over there later to get it.

Becky's old boyfriend (whose name escapes me) crosses the road, and sees Roy and Hayley talking to Kevin outside the garage, in front of a smart, shiny car. They're thinking of buying a car, however, it's not this one, but an old classic, a Morris Minor Traveler, made in 1971. They ask Kevin if he'd look it over as the owner is going to bring it down for them to look at. Kevin says he'd be glad to.

Becky's old friend goes into the cafe and asks for doughnuts. She tells him to show her his money first. He tells her he's seen Roy and Hayley across the street buying a car. She refuses to serve him, so he pulls out a ten pound note and asks for coffee and a doughnut. She asks him to go somewhere else. She shouts at him to get out just as Roy and Hayley come back in and ask if everything's all right. The young man leaves quickly. "So you've bought a car?" says Becky. Roy tells her it's not definite, but wonders how she knew. "Obvious innit!"

Ken, Deirdre and Tracy are discussing Tracy's intended visit to the house to collect Amy's rabbit. Ken thinks it's macabre, and also that it might harm her defence. He thinks she shouldn't do anything that might be construed as interfering with the evidence. Tracy can't see the problem, "It's a toy rabbit!" she says, going on to point out that it was her home, all her stuff is there and she wants it back.

In the Rovers, Steve is chatting to Michelle when Sonny arrives, earlier than expected. He explains that he's come to tell her he can't make their date, he's off to a meeting in Dublin, by helicopter, and will be gone for a few days. He wanted to come and explain in person. She thinks that's really sweet and bids him a fond farewell. Steve sits at the bar looking sick.

Fiz and Kirk walk in, she's moaning that she's skint, and Chesney is eating her out of house and home. "I think he might have worms," she says. Kirk says he can let her have some tablets for that, but she points out he's not a dog and if he really wants to help he could buy them all a nice big pizza.

Jason comes out of the bakery he's refurbishing, to find Becky on a fag-break outside Roy's Rolls, eyeing him up. "Are you all right?" he asks "I am now," grins Becky. As Jason walks off, Becky's ex comes across the road, moaning that some people, when they get lucky, turn their backs on their mates. She reminds him that he spent all her money on drugs and tells him to go and jump in the canal. He tries to persuade her to go for a drink with him. "Tonight, tomorrow, any time you like," he says. She glares at him and goes back inside the cafe, just as a Morris Traveler comes up the Street.

David is sitting morosely in his car, watching as Tracy and Deirdre come out of their house and walk across to Charlie's house. "Are you sure you want to do this?" asks Deirdre, but Tracy says she'll be in and out in two minutes.

Sean goes into the pub, anxious to be introduced to Sonny and is disappointed to hear from Michelle that Sonny has cancelled. "He's probably circling Dublin right now in his chopper," says Steve. Sean thinks it would take an awfully long time to get to Dublin by bike.

Cilla approaches Fiz and tells her that Les is heartbroken over Chesney. Fiz says he should have looked after him properly when he had the chance. "Who made you director of Social Services?" asks Cilla. Fiz says Cilla should stop acting like she's bothered, everyone knows she never gave a damn about Chesney, "Just like you never gave a damn about me," she adds, bitterly. Cilla laughs, "That's true, you weren't a loveable child," she sneers, "but Chesney's different, I miss him, and I want him back!" She struts off, leaving Fiz looking stunned. "Stupid cow," she mutters.

Inside Charlie's house, Tracy takes a look around.. Deirdre tries to get her to go back home, but Tracy wants to stay. She tells her mum that it was all she ever wanted, the three of them in their own home. Deirdre tries to tell her that she'll meet someone else, "There are better men than Charlie Stubbs out there," she says. Tracy says she won't meet someone if she's in prison. Tracy wonders what will happen to all the stuff in the house, and Deirdre reckons it will go into Charlie's estate – something which doesn't please Tracy at all.

Outside, Roy and Hayley are looking at the classic car that the seller has brought to show them. He tells them that it was owned by his grandmother who kept it in the garage for most of the year. He invites them to take it for a spin, and Hayley takes the keys.

Inside the house, Tracy hands Deirdre a bag load of toys and tells her to take them home, she says she just wants to stay on her own and think for a bit. As soon as she's gone, Tracy starts looking through drawers until she finds some keys which she puts in her pocket. Just then there's a voice behind her and she jumps – it's David coming in through the door. "I guess it's true what they say about criminals coming back to the scene of the crime," he says, grinning. She smiles at him, but tells him she hopes no-one saw him as they shouldn't be seen talking to each other. He tells her she's been messing with his head, twisting things round, practically telling him what he saw, he didn't know what had happened by the time she had finished with him yesterday. She tells him he shouldn't go changing his story, he'd look like a right idiot. He agrees, he'd look like a daft, immature kid and she wouldn't want that, would she? She admits that she wouldn't. "So what exactly did happen?" he asks, and says he wants all the gory details. Tracy replies that he knows what happened. "You saw it, remember?" she says. David tells her that the more he thinks about it, the more he thinks she killed Charlie deliberately.

Outside the cafe, Kevin is taking at look at the Morris Traveler. Roy asks him for his honest opinion. Kevin says it wouldn't get them up the M6 every day, but it would be ideal for a Sunday afternoon pootle. Roy tells him that a pootle is exactly what they are looking for. Kevin says in that case they have themselves a bargain.

Meanwhile, back in Charlie's house, Tracy tries to tell David that he is way off beam. David says that he didn't expect her to admit it, but they both know she did it. "Why you little…..!" and she lunges at him. "What are you going to do, kill me as well?" he smirks, "don't think it would help your defence much." He then tells her he's on her side and he wants her to go free. She asks him why he's playing these games, and he tells her he wants to know where they both stand, he's collaborating with a murderer. He wants to know what's in it for him. Tracy stares at him. "Are you trying to blackmail me?" she asks. "No," says David, "I just want you to be……very nice to me. I don't think that's too much to ask, is it?" He then decides to leave. "See you around," he says as he goes out of the door. Tracy is left standing there, looking stunned.

Anne Logan

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