Right, let's get going with the first episode from Friday.

Tyrone and Kevin are interrupted during their tea break at the garage by Sally and Sophie. Sophie tells her dad that although it's a school day, Rosie is still in her nightie, slobbering around at home. Sally thinks Kevin should go and talk Rosie round. She wants him to persuade Rosie to stay at school where the teasing will be nothing compared to what she'll get in the factory. Kevin says she's an adult now and can make her own decisions. Sally sighs. "Even when they're wrong?" Kevin says that everyone in the nick was there because of someone else – none of them took responsibility, so he wants Rosie to take responsibility for her own actions. "If we start showing her a bit of trust, she might start trusting us back," he says. Sally doesn't believe it. "Get touchy feely in your own time. I've got work to do," she says.

Jason is arguing with Sarah, who appears to hang up on him.

Steve and Ryan work at the table, writing Ryan's speech for being best man. Michelle wants to buy Ryan a new pair of shoes, though he says the ones he's got are fine.

Rita and Emily call round to see Jack, who is still in his jamas and dressing gown. Rita tells him they're what's called a pincer movement, or, if he prefers, good cop, bad cop. "I'm bad cop, obviously," Rita says. "Obviously," says Emily happily. "Lunch. Today," Rita says. "Don't tell me you've forgotten," says Emily. Rita glares at her. "That's a bad-cop line!" Jack tells them he's not really a lunch sort of person. "Do you ever eat between 11.30 and 4?" asks Emily. "We'll pick you up, one o' clock," says Rita. "It'll give you time to iron your pyjamas." As they go, Jack rolls his eyes. He obviously didn't realise that being widowed automatically enrolled him in their little club.

In the cafe, Sally's complaining about how long it's taking to get served. She thinks loyal customers should be served first. Becky points out that the construction workers who are there (what are they working on?) eat big and tip bigger. When Becky gets part of the order wrong, Sally walks out in disgust. Jason walks in, still arguing with Sarah on the phone. As the call ends suddenly again, Becky asks: "A mug for a mug?" Jason doesn't even deny that's what he is. He points out that it's Sarah's birthday, so he feels obliged to speak to her. But he thinks maybe Becky is right and he should give the phone calls a miss until Sarah comes home on the 11th of February. Becky says that if that doesn't work, he should send Sarah round to her and she'll give her a slap for every day she's been away.

Leanne comes into the restaurant to tell Paul that his Grandad doesn't let the grass grow – he's not got just one lady on the go, but two. Yes, Jack, Rita and Emily are lunching Italian-style. Paul peeks through the door and tells Leanne to tell Jack that the chef recommends the mutton! When Leanne goes out, Jack tells her that if she feels the need to set off the fire alarms in the next half hour, not to fret on his account. Leanne's sure he'll enjoy himself. "Are you?" he asks. She tells him that after the week he's had, he doesn't have to do anything he doesn't want to do. "Even if they're paying?" he asks. "Especially if they're paying," Leanne tells him.

Steve's on his third bag of crisps as he works on his VAT returns. Out in the bar, Michelle takes a call from Alex. He wants to see her today. The call is interrupted.

Rita and Emily are giving Jack advice. They tell him not to make any big decisions for at least a year. Jack points out that he and Vera made a promise to Molly and Tyrone. He doesn't want to move to Blackpool, but he feels obliged to leave Number 9, because Vera wouldn't be very pleased with him if he went back on his word. "And Tyrone wouldn't want you on the street," Emily says. Jack doesn't want to find out. Rita apologises. They didn't bring him out to make him miserable. Paul comes out and tells them Jack's appetite's not right yet. The ladies gush about how lovely the food was. Jack goes against Paul's advice and orders Irish Coffees all round.

In the pub, Michelle calls back Alex and leaves a message asking him to call. At the bar, Deirdre talks to Liz about Amy's birthday party. She thinks it would be better next door where they're not tripping over crates and crisp cartons. "Or our Steve, doing the VAT return . . . still," jokes Liz. Michelle seems very distracted.

She goes to the back room, where Steve's still on November with the VAT, but is looking at a book instead of working. She tells him that she's realised it should be Steve taking Ryan to get his wedding outfit this afternoon, not her. Because Ryan looks up to Steve and Steve has good taste. She offers to finish the VAT. "If you go now, you'll miss the traffic," she tells him.

In the kebab shop, Darryl tells Mel that he doesn't buy the whole "shabby chic" thing – "she's loaded, they all are." Mel denies it. They're talking about white girl solo artists, apparently (?!). Lauren comes in. She's one of these young ladies who talk with their breasts. Sticks her chest out and emotes with it as she speaks! She's skint and wonders if Darryl feels like "a quiet one" after work. "DVD round yours, or something?"

Alex turns up in the pub. Sean's about to throw him out ("The cheek of it! In school uniform and all!") but Michelle says he's one of Ryan's mates. She goes to talk to him and tells him to come through the back. "We can do without the audience," she says.

Michelle and Alex go into the back room. He asks if she's always had a pub and she tells him the situation and starts gabbling on, then catches herself and asks if he wants a coffee. He doesn't drink coffee. He seems much more relaxed than Michelle. She explains how busy it is and that she doesn't want anyone walking in. He tells her she's doing nothing wrong, and tugs at his ear. Michelle almost cries. "That thing you did with your ear . . . it's just like your dad."

Darryl's in his room, presumably cleaning up. This consists of picking up clothing from the floor and smelling it, and asking Mel what she thinks is growing in the mug he found down there as well. Mel tells him he's lolloping round like a big Labrador. "Did it ever strike you she might prefer cats?" Darryl says Lauren's just a mate, but Mel points out that he's tidying the shed, putting his gruns in the wash and letting fresh air in, "all without me dad standing with a gun to your head. Don't tell me she's just a mate!"

Michelle confesses to Alex that having contact with Alex could be making a bad situation worse. He says he's never got on with his mum and dad. Though he calls his mother Wendy. He says he started calling her that the day he found out she wasn't his real mother. He's never really got on with his parents. He complains that his mother's too straight. "I'm straight," says Michelle. "You've got tattoos," says Alex. "And you're young." Michelle explains that she's a strict parent. Ryan has to do his homework, say Please and Thankyou, "and if he ever stopped calling me Mum I'd kill him!" Alex's face falls. "Why did you ask me to come?"

Sophie is in the office of the garage and asks Kevin about prison and he tries to tell her what it was like. He couldn't sleep because it was noisy. They're chatting away happily, having a little laugh and we see Rosie out in the main part of the garage. "Prisons are horrible, ugly places and I'm never going back, Kev is saying as Rosie comes in. Sophie hugs her dad as Rosie looks on wistfully.

Lauren and Darryl meet Tina and David and Lauren asks if they want to come along. David thinks wherever they're going it'll be better than staring at the back of his mother's head all night. Lauren heads for the Rovers. "The Rovers?" asks David. Darryl says he thought Lauren was skint. "Seanie's on tonight," she says. "Buy one, get three free!" Elsewhere in the street, Steve and Ryan are back with the wedding suit for Ryan. Maria sees them and tries to get into the bags to see whether they've got the right one. Steve won't let her see.

In the pub, Tyrone and Jason explain to Sean that they're not invited to the wedding. Sean can't believe it. "Well, it is a bit awkward, with me being her ex-boyfriend," says Tyrone. "Ex-fiancé," says Jason. Maria arrives and Sean says he's really pleased for her. Maria says it's all perfect, apart from her parents not being able to make it, and the bridesmaids' double whammy. "First Candice pulls, out, and now Sarah. Talk about monkey-see, monkey-do." This is all a surprise to Jason, who didn't know Sarah had pulled out. Nearby, Kevin and Rosie have a heart to heart in a booth. He wants to know what happens if it doesn't work out at Underworld. "Well, if it's not stretching me, I'll go back to college," Rosie says nonchalantly. "Or, I'll get another job." Kevin tells her he's taking her to the pictures. He's decided they're going out together at least one day a week. Just the two of them. He says that when she finally flies the next, he doesn't want to look back and say he never really knew her.

In the back of the pub, Michelle holds Alex's hand and tells him she doesn't want to scare him off. She wants to get to know him. But not tonight, because Ryan and Steve could walk in any minute. Alex tells her Ryan has had 16 years. "I've had three minutes at the school gate. There must be things you want to ask me."

A depressed looking Jason leaves the bar. He meets Becky coming in and she asks what's wrong. "Come and tell your Auntie Becky, love." She puts her arm around him and leads him back in.

Michelle hears Steve coming and leaps to her feet. He sends Ryan upstairs to change then goes into the back room, demanding to know what Alex is doing there and telling Michelle she should have told him to go, for Ryan's sake. "I invited him," she says. "I went to his school and I gave him our address. I needed to see him." Steve clicks that this is why she wanted him out of the way. "Does Ryan need to see him?" he asks. "No!" says Michelle. Steve points out that Ryan is going to see him whether she likes it or not.

The End, for now.
Second of the Friday episodes will be along soon.

Margaret Carr

Sorry this is a little late. We spent part of this afternoon at the hospital meeting gchild#4 - Freya - born earlier today. Mum and baby are now home and all is well. So all three older daughters now have at least one child and we all think each has the right ones (mainly because when born nearly all of them look like the appropriate father).

Unlike Michelle who appears to have been sold a dummy 16 years ago! This episode, written by Jonathan Harvey and directed by Kay Patrick, opens in the back room at the Rovers with Michelle, Steve and Alex (the real thing) present. Steve wants Alex out of the way before Ryan comes downstairs. Steve says this is wrong on so many levels and Michelle and Steve argue - she calls him pious. Alex buts in on Michelle's side. Steve does not like the game. Alex asks if Steve if he is his father - and then Michelle bundles him out of the door - just as Ryan comes downstairs saying there are no buttons on the shirt - it needs cufflinks. Michelle goes outside.

In the Rovers bar Becky and Jason are discussing Sarah, Becky refers to Sarah as a brain dead moose - she just has no sense. Becky tells him to say goodbye to bad rubbish and get out there and sow his wild oats. She says he could hope on to a plane and run down the street after her with no clothes on - providing she can see the photos later. Jason at least laughs at this thought. He calls her mental. David passes and notes that Jason does not let the grass grow - but then any slapper is a step up from his sister. Jason springs to Sarah's defence. Becky tells Jason she can handle it, grabs David's T shirt and says that if he wants to know what sort of girl she is, he should come back when he hits puberty. She then asks what the smell is - he claims after shave, she counters "Fear". Taps him and tells him to come back when he is a man! She says to Jason about 2099 and she and Jason "high five".

Violet and Jamie are watching tv - sound but no picture, better known as a radio. Jamie asks after the midwife. Still hideously overweight and wearing pop socks. Her blood pressure is high again. Anyway there is a lasagne in the oven and a salad is out.

In the back Alex and Michelle are discussing the situation. Michelle explains that Steve is special to her and that his dad was a wonderful person. He died in a car crash when they were both nine. He was called Dean. She misses him every day. And then she looks at Alex and it is almost as though he has come back. Alex asks that if Steve is the love of her life what does that make Steve? She loves him - but it is not really any of Alex's business. Michelle says it is possible to find love again. She will bring him a picture of Dean the next time they meet. They can help each other through this. Before he goes she hugs him. He says he will see her.

Rosie announces to Sophie and Sally that she is going to the pictures with Kev - they are doing it once a week. Sal tells Kev off for rewarding his daughter. Kev and Sal discuss the subject - he insists he wants to be a dad. Pity they did not have a sensible discussion earlier rather than arguing in front of the two girls.

Becky and Jason are still discussing Sarah, Becky notes that Jason stood up to David for her but not for Sarah. She suggests they go some where else.

Ryan is on the phone trying to find Michelle - but she is not with Liam. Michelle returns and claims she has been chatting to Carla. Anyway Ryan is looking very smart and grown up in his suit. She cries. Steve seems to have built a good relationship with Ryan as they exchange a look as Ryan hugs Michelle and which Michelle does not therefore see.

Jason and Becky leave the Rovers. Jason fancies another bevvy - he suggests they go back to Eileen's - there is some red wine. Becky says yes - lets get wrecked. (Now for Street watchers it is well known that red wine consumed by consenting adults has only one outcome, and whilst I am aware of a couple of exceptions to the rule, somehow tonight ...)

Back in the Rovers Liz, Vernon and Sean discuss David who is not 18 and Vernon says he is under age. Liz demands that David and Tina leave after exchanging words. This includes the use of the term "lady" - hooray the Street is squaring up for one of its fights!

The lasagne is still frozen in the middle, but the cooking has at least restored the picture capability of the television - which clearly has a mind of its own. Jamie agrees to be by her side when the baby is born. He will however not video it.

Michelle and Steve discuss the boys. Steve wants her to ignore Alex - but she cannot do it. She is only trying to do what is best. She knows she has hurt his feelings. She is not enjoying this. She wants to know he is all right - but Steve knows that she is curious and she admits it. She knows that Ryan is her son - she has been through hell, including explaining that Dean had died and now she has gone through it a second time. Michelle feels as though the clock had been turned back - but nothing is as weird as this. She is sobbing and Steve holds her.

Sal and Sophie are devouring dinner. The latter wrote to her dad every day - but Rosie did nothing. Sophie could not sleep. And now Rosie gets the pictures and a pizza with Kev! Neither of them are amused.

Michelle and Steve return indoors and she apologises. She is going to tell Ryan she has seen Alex.

Along the Street Becky and Jason are exchanging the oddest places they have had sex. When was Jason happiest - when he and Todd were taken to Butlins, stayed up late and ate candyfloss until sick and then the following day the two of them won various competitions. They did not want to go home. Becky went to see some waxworks and her uncle pretended to be one - and everyone was dead nice - she never wanted it to end. They are both drinking red wine. Both chose stuff where other people were involved. Becky does not understand why she cannot be happy. Jason looks at her and suggests they can make each other happy. Jason's mobile trills - it is Sarah. Becky takes the mobile away from him and holds it at arm's length, lying back over the arm of sofa. Jason lies on top of her trying to reach the phone - but then decides that talking to Sarah can wait, Becky says go on make me happy and Jason moves in for the kiss and they wrap arms around each other.

And the next update will be along shortly.

K Richard W

Once again apologies for the delay in this report. I am pleased to say that from next week, a familiar name (to some of you!) will be joining our team.

Tonight's story starts with Jason coming down from his room to find Becky already there. She was beaming while he was trying to recollect what had happened the previous night. She told Jason that she would go as soon as she had finished her fag. He told her there was no rush. But then Eileen walked in (you might have guessed!). When Becky called out "surprise", Eileen remarked that was one word for it ! Eileen went over to Jason and queried whether he was out of his mind. She hoped that he was drunk when he took her to bed. Becky reminded her that she was still in the room. Eileen went over to Becky took her fag as she went back upstairs.

Rosie is now working back at the factory, and goes round with teas for the girls (and Sean !). Fiz told her she thought private education was so good that they taught her how to make and serve tea. Sally told her to keep quiet and get on with her work. Rosie goes back to the office, and Kelly calls out that if things get a bit much at home she could always leave and rent a flat ... up Carla's backside ! This, of course, brought much laughter , so much so that Liam came out to find out what was going on. The girls explained that they were teasing her. He told them to get back to work, as Carla came out to tell Liam that his mother was on the phone. She wanted to him to pick her up from the airport as her broomstick is out of action!

Back at the Grimshaw's, Becky was saying goodbye to Jason. She thanked him for a great night, and suggested that they do it again sometime. Jason didn't say anything. Then Sean came down. He could hardly believe his own eyes! Becky turned to Jason and said that at least they all have something to talk about now. Jason opened the front door for her to leave, but she stopped outside the door. He mumbled to her that he would see her later. She said she hoped to see him later, and then planted a big kiss on him. At that moment Audrey was passing. It didn't take her long to put 2 and 2 together and realised they had been together all night.

In the Rovers living room, Michelle had decided to tell Ryan everything. She explained that he was given the choice to see Nick and Wendy. Ryan said he was not interested. Michelle then told him that Alex had the same choice. Ryan said Alex was also not interested. Michelle informed him that he had changed his mind. Ryan said that he has no right, and that it would not happen. Michelle said that he wanted to meet her so they got together last week. She felt she had to respect his decision. Ryan was very annoyed and said she didn't have to do anything and that they met because she wanted to. He then stormed out of the room, followed by Steve.

At the cafe, Roy was annoyed that Becky was wearing the same clothes as the previous day and they smelt of smoke. He told her to go home and change. As she was getting ready to go, Lloyd asked who "he" was. She shouted that it was Jason Grimshaw. Lloyd was surprised, because he is married. Becky said that Sarah had gone off to Italy, and surely he is not expected to live like a monk. Then left with a big smile on her face.

Steve and Ryan are outside and Steve tells him that Michelle will always love him. However, Ryan thought that Alex was a threat. He said his grandparents would want to see him as he is part of their flesh and blood. Steve explained that Michelle had brought him up for 16 years, and she is not going to give up on you now. Ryan said it is blood that matters otherwise she wouldn't have seen Alex.

Violet and Lauren bump into each other (and judging by the size of Violet now, it would have been a big bump!). Violet said she was waiting for the midwife to come round (so why was she walking in the street?). She wants a home birth. When Lauren suggested she would be better off in hospital, Violet explained that a woman in her ante-natal class had three at home and said it was an amazing experience. Lauren thought Violet was turning into a hippy !

Jason gets on the phone to Bill. He asks for three days, but at this stage we don't know exactly what for.

Gail goes into the salon and Audrey immediately tells her what she saw. Although Gail initially doubts it, but Audrey says she saw what she saw. She says that Jason and Sarah cannot get back together as he has moved on.

In the Rovers, Darryl popped in and saw Lauren. He asked her if she wants to go for a drink one night. She tells him that she is skint and that she can't afford to pay Eileen for rent. He said he would pay, and then offered to lend her £50. She called him a lifesaver and gave him a big kiss.

In the backroom of the Rovers, Steve is none too happy that Michelle is going to meet Alex. She says that as she has missed out all the important dates in his life, the least she can do is to meet him for a coffee when he asks. She then asks if he will do her a big favour. She wants him to pick up her mum and dad on his own. Reluctantly Steve agrees, but tells her to make up a good story for them.

In the bar, Fiz does an impression of Rosie sucking up to Carla, to the great amusement of everyone else. Lauren asked who they were talking about and Vicky told her that it was Rosie Webster, Sean then added the star of "To Sir With Love" ! He then asked Lauren where Violet was. When she replied that she had gone to see the midwife because her blood pressure was a bit up. Lauren said that she wants to have the baby at home. Sean initially thought she was joking, but then realised she was serious.

At the Morton's kebab bar, Mel came in for the first time in her new uniform. Jerry set up the camera to take some family photos. He looked very proud of his daughter in her uniform.

Over at the Grimshaw's house, Jason tells his mother that he is going to Milan to see Sarah. He said that he would move there if necessary. Eileen was concerned for him. However, he said that they need builders in Milan as well. She reminded him that he doesn't know any Italian, but he said he could learn. There is a knock on the door, and it is Gail. She asks him if he is going on a guilt trip, and confirmed she had heard what he had been up to.

Back at the Rovers, Violet comes in . Sean asks how she got on. She told him that her blood pressure has come back down. She told him the numbers and Sean turned to Marcus who confirmed that they were normal. Then Sean asked her if it was correct that she wanted to have the baby at home. He asked if it was a good idea, but Marcus told him to leave hear alone. Sean said he was just asking. She replied that he is never "just" anything, but Jason suggested they go to the Weatherfield Arms, otherwise her blood pressure may rise again. Sean turned to Marcus and reminded him that he had previously said home births can be dodgy for first time mothers. Violet interrupted and said that the midwife told her that it is okay. Jamie then told Sean to back off.

Gail and Eileen are now rowing on the doorstep. Eileen defends Jason by asking whether he was supposed to take a vow of chastity until his wife decides to come home. Gail said that she had told Sarah that she had a very loyal husband. Jason apologised and said he made a mistake. He said he gets annoyed because he had put his life on hold for her. Gail then told Eileen that both of her sons were cheats. She reminded her that Sarah found Todd in bed with a male nurse. Eileen tells Gail that was so shocking and asked her when Sarah first got pregnant, asking if it was 12 or 13 ? Jason tried to put a stop to the bickering, and said he was drunk, and thought it was his payback to Sarah. Jason then asked Gail not to say anything to Sarah so that he could talk to her properly when he arrived over there.

In the Rovers backroom, Michelle is sealing an envelope to Alex. Steve asked if she was giving him money, but she said it was a photo of Dean. He apologised, but Michelle said she is the one that be apologising. He has done a lot for them, and Ryan looks up to him. Steve said he was a good lad, to which Michelle queried that Alex wasn't? (typical !). She said at least her mum and dad won't know what has been going on. (We don't know yet, but what is the betting sometime in the future they do find out!). She asked that they pretend nothing is wrong for the next few days. They begin to argue, and then she said she was going to meet Alex, and Steve said he will go and meet her parents.

Back on the doorstep, the arguments are still going on between, Jason, Eileen and Gail. He tells Gail that he just wants to try and smooth things out between them. Gail asked if he was going to tell her about the "cow from the cafe". Eileen asked him if Becky meant anything to him, and he said no. She told him to keep quiet. Eileen told him to get on his way. and told Gail that she can tell Sarah that he is coming, but not to mention anything about Becky. If she ruined her son's chance of happiness and she would have her in the morgue by tea time. Gail replied that she would love it if they split up. Eileen said that he loves her, and called Gail a "stupid cow". Gail said he had a funny way of showing it, and marched off towards her house, pursued by Eileen to prevent her using the phone.

Will Eileen be able to stop her? Stella will be here shortly with part two.

Martin Rosen

Part 2

We rejoin Eileen and Gail having a screaming match outside Gail's house. Eileen warns Gail that if she tells Sarah about Jason's indiscretion with Becky, that will be the end of the marriage and anyway, who voted Gail Miss Moral High ground 2008? Oooh! Gail tells Eileen that it's no wonder Jason strayed, with all the blokes coming and going from Eileen's house, he had no good examples to learn from. Eileen goes for Gail but Jerry Morton separates them. As he takes Gail inside her house, Eileen has a frustrated tantrum and rips some of the flowers out of Gail's hanging baskets.

Inside Gail's house, Gail tells Jerry what all the furor was about. Jerry warns Gail off from sticking her oar in when it comes to their children's love-lives. He reasons with Gail,counsels caution and advises her to let them sort it out themselves.

In Roy's Cafe, Becky returns, not having changed. Instead of going home to change, she has gone out bought herself some fancy schmancy new clothes. She heads up to Roy's flat to have a shower. When a random workman asks of she needs help to scrub her back, Becky is excited to tell him that she's taken.

Michelle arrives at a cafe to meet Alex but finds no sign of him. She orders a latte anyway.

In the Rovers, Fizz is sitting with Liam, waiting for Liam's parents to arrive. When Liam goes to the bar, Maria remarks to Fizz that she hopes Liam's mother is not the interfering type. She thanks Fizz for being so great about the wedding. In another booth, Marcus is warning Sean off nagging Violet about a home birth. Sean promises not to talk about babies, hospitals or women's bits for the rest of the day.

Liam's parents arrive in the Rovers with Steve. They are introduced to Maria and wonder where Michelle is. Steve goes off to find out where she is. Liam's Mum, Helen, takes Maria off to chat while Liam catches up with his Dad, Barry. Steve goes out the back and instead of lighting a cigarette, tries to ring Michelle. Michelle, still waiting in the cafe with no sign of Alex rejects his call.

In Roy's Cafe, Jamie checks his watch and tells Violet that Sean will be out of her way and back at work at the factory by now. Violet has a whine about Sean, same old same old..... He asks Violet why she doesn't just start her maternity leave now. Violet reminds him that they need the money.

Meanwhile, Becky is telling Roy how she and Jason were bound to get together eventually. Roy is more interested in the strange aroma emanating from the sink. Becky tells Roy if she were married to Jason then there would be no way she'd jet off and leave him like Sarah did, but she's glad Sarah did. She has a little daydream about being married and having children, something she never imagined herself doing. Until she met the right man, of course.

In the Rovers, Steve brings out some sandwiches for Barry and Helen who are wondering where Michelle is. Audrey comes in to the pub and Barry & Helen are introduced to Audrey who is putting them up. Audrey tells them that there will be a family supper at her house. She gives Maria the afternoon off to get to know her in-laws. When Maria pops out to grab the venue brochure to show her in-laws, Liam looks at his parents and says, "What did I tell you?" He's quite proud of his bride-to-be.

It seems Alex is a no-show for Michelle. She gives up waiting and leaves.

In the kebab shop, Mel asks Darryl where he's taking her that night to celebrate her new job as WPC Mel. It turns out he won't be taking her anywhere good since he's loaned almost all of his cash to Lauren who needed rent money. Mel calls Darryl a mug.

Michelle rushes home to Steve at the pub and apologises and tells Steve that Alex didn't turn up. She can't believe she just dropped everything for Alex when he wanted to see her. Steve puts that down to Alex being a teenager. He takes Michelle in to see her parents.

In the Salon, Gail tells Audrey she should be running a B&B at her place. Audrey asks Gail if she's spoken to Sarah. Gail tells Audrey she's going to let Jason and Sarah sort it out between the two of them. Audrey is thankful that Gail has finally learned to mind her own business when it comes to her grown-up children's lives.

In the Rovers, the Connors and Maria are all having a drink when Ryan comes to join them. Barry makes a remark about where Ryan gets his good looks from- whoops! At the bar, Sean tries to help Violet with a box of crisps. Sour-faced Violet scowls and tells Sean it's just a box of crisps. Marcus reminds her that Sean means well and only wants to help. When Sean asks Violet to go home and let him do her shift in the pub, Marcus tells Sean he's going out for pizza and a movie with him so he can't work and whisks Sean away. Violet mouths a "Thank you!" to Marcus.

The Connors are all at a table in the pub where Barry gives Ryan some more birthday money. Carla comes in and introduces Tony to Paul's family. Carla points out how fast Liam and Maria's wedding came about. "Talking of haste," Helen interjects, "you seem to have moved on after our Paul pretty quick! Anyway, nice catching up with you Carla!" Helen dismisses Carla quickly. Maria looks pretty smug.

At the bar, Carla tells Tony, "Thank God, I'm not part of that flamin' family any more!"

At the kebab shop, Mel is on the phone to Jerry, asking where he is so she and Darryl can go into town. Lauren comes in and asks Darryl what he's up to. Mel tells her that Darryl is going out with her and reminds Lauren she's supposed to be skint but notes that Lauren's wearing a new top even though she was desperate for rent money. Quite put out, Lauren empties her purse onto the counter and gives Darryl the £36 in it. She tells Darryl she's off into town. When Darryl asks how she can go into town with no money, Lauren reminds him that girls like her don't pay for drinks and she clip-clops away in her high heeled boots. Darryl is very annoyed with Mel and runs after Lauren.

At Roy's cafe, Fizz comes in to ask Roy if he wants to come over to her place for dinner. He takes a bit of persuading but decides to go. Becky comes out from the flat all dolled up to the nines. Fizz asks Roy, "Where d'you keep the rest of the pussy cat dolls?" She's headed over to the Rovers to "accidentally bump into one very lucky lad and give him the night of his life- again!" Fizz is stunned when she realises that the lucky lad is Jason, who only got married about five minutes ago. Becky reminds Fizz that Sarah has left Jason all on his own and if a bit of happiness is going to come Becky's way then she's going to "grab it with both hands and give it a sloppy wet on right on t'gob."

Becky goes in to the Rovers and orders a pint when she doesn't see Jason. The Connor family heads out to Audrey's for the family dinner. Helen says how lovely it will be to have all the family there, in full earshot of Carla who knows that the remark was for her benefit. Carla tells Tony that Helen never liked her and now that Paul's dead, she doesn't have to pretend any more. Becky sups up and heads over to Eileen's to see what Jason's up to. Ryan squeezes past Michelle at the bar and goes over to Steve and Michelle who are in a booth. He asks Michelle not to tell her parents about the baby mix-up. Michelle assures him she won't.

Poor Becky is at Eileen's front door where Eileen tells her that Jason has gone out to Milan to see Sarah. Eileen rather tactlessly suggests that Jason spending the night with Becky was a stupid mistake. Poor Becky is so disappointed. Eileen asks Becky if she wants to join her in the pub for a drink. Becky decides to go into town instead. She sits at the bus stop and has a cry before the bus arrives.

Stella McLoughlin

Fiz and Janice meet Maria out in the Street. They joke about Maria fitting into her wedding dress and she remarks that she's blowing up fast enough as it is. Janice tells her she should be marrying an ugly bloke, then other women wouldn't chase him.

Across the road, Gail meets Audrey, who asks if she's heard how Jason and Sarah are getting on. Gail hasn't heard anything, and Audrey says she hopes they get it sorted. Gail says it's a pity they're not more like David and Tina. "Rabbits, you mean?" says Audrey, dryly.

Becky arrives for work at the cafe – late. She tells Roy to take it out of her wages.

They're open for business in the kebab shop (do people really want kebabs at breakfast time?) and Darryl and Jerry are both working. Gail walks in and finds Mel and Darryl having a conversation through Jerry, "Ask him where he's put my blue scarf," says Mel, and Darryl tells his dad to tell her that he hasn't seen it. Jerry tells Gail that it's a twins thing – they're one person but they're both horrible. Mel comes back in, having found her scarf under her brother's coat. "Tell him she's just using him, but he can't see it because his brains are in his pants," she says to Jerry. Jerry has to ask who ‘she' is. "That Lauren," says Mel. "Tell her she's just jealous because no-one fancies her," retorts Darryl.

In the Rovers, Liam and Maria are sitting with Liam's parents and Steve. Just then a young man comes in – he's Liam's cousin Tom, and has arrived for the stag do. Steve says he's the organiser and is committed to keeping them all in order. Michelle comes over then to collect glasses and says that's what she's afraid of.

Becky is slamming around in the cafe, she's in a bad mood because she's been dumped again. "Why do I let myself get into these situations?" she asks Roy, who suggests she sits down for five minutes. She tells him not to feel sorry for her, she's learned to bounce. "Unlike the pots!" says Roy, worrying about his crockery.

Violet is reclining on the sofa watching tv and eating biscuits. Jamie comes in, wondering why she's not at work. She tells him its ‘Seanitis', he's making her sick and doing her head in at the same time. Jamie suggests she starts her maternity leave now, but she tells him they need the money. He says they need the two of them to be healthy or the money won't make any difference.

Darryl sees Lauren come out of her house and dashes across to speak to her. She tells him sarcastically she's off to town but he's not to worry, she's got her own bus fare. He apologises for Mel having a go at her. "Shouldn't she be doing that?" asks Lauren. He tells her he had nothing to do with it, and he doesn't care about the money. "So what are you saying?" she asks him. He says that just because Mel is sticking her oar in it's no reason for them to stop going out with one another. "Is that what we're doing?" she smiles. "Unless you say we're not," he says, hesitantly. Lauren sees Mel walking down the other side of the Street. She lunges forward and kisses Darryl, a big smacker right on the lips. "What do you think?" she grins, and walks off.

Liam's stag do party are in the Rovers, waiting for their taxis. Liam's dad reminds everyone that it was fifty years ago to the day that the ‘Busby Babes', the Manchester United footballers, were lost in the plane crash. They drink a toast, and then they're off.

Eileen is at the bar with Jerry when Gail walks in. She tells Eileen that she hasn't said anything to Sarah about Jason's ‘indiscretion'. Eileen asks if she's heard anything, but Gail still hasn't.

Maria is at the bar when Carla walks in. "Oh that dress still fits you – just," remarks Carla. Maria asks if she'd like a drink, Liam's left his card behind the bar. "At least that way he's got something worth coming back for," says Carla. "Yes," snaps Maria, "his wedding." Carla looks smug. "You know, he's never exactly been Mr. Reliable," she purrs, "I've known him so much longer than you have." Maria's had enough. "Get your own," she snaps and rushes off to the ladies. Michelle, behind the bar, asks Carla what it's all about. "Sensitive, isn't she," says Carla, "hormonal."

Michelle goes to find Maria, who is weeping in the ladies loo. She urges Maria to take no notice of Carla, but Maria finds it difficult when she keeps going on about Liam. Michelle says that Carla likes to be the centre of attention and right now she's not, Maria is. Maria feels insecure after what happened in the Lake District, and then the two of them going off to the hotel together, and Carla keeps niggling and saying things that are really getting to her. Michelle tells her that Carla will stop when she gets bored, and mops Maria up. She tells her she looks fantastic, which is another thing that Carla can't stand, and urges her to go back out into the bar.

Jamie arrives at the pub and asks where the stag party has gone. Sean, behind the bar, tells him, and then asks how Violet is, adding that he might pop round to see her. Jamie tells him that wouldn't be a good idea, Violet is skiving because Sean is doing her head in. "She loves you, Sean," says Jamie, "but if you don't give her some space she's going to do you some serious physical damage."

Kelly is at the bar with Wiki and Janice, trying to scrape up the money for a round of drinks. She's a few pence short and so Wiki offers to pay. Kelly is annoyed and accuses her of showing off all her cash, adding that if she had the contacts to do the knicker parties herself she wouldn't be borrowing off them. Eventually Wiki gives in and says she'll get Kelly the information.

Carla is fiddling with her mobile phone when Michelle passes her. "I want a word with you," she says quietly.

The stag party are out on the streets of Manchester, all merry and getting very loud.

Among them is Ryan, who also appears to have had a few drinks. Jamie finds them and joins them and Liam appears to be quite drunk already.

Back in the pub, Maria is sitting with her future mother in law, Claire, Fiz, Audrey and Carla. Carla thinks the men will never be back in the Rovers for last orders, and says Liam will probably be wrapped around a pole dancer by now. Maria gathers her things together and says she'll call it a night, and Liam's mum says she'll join her. "Oh come on Maria, you lightweight," says Carla, "your fiance's out doing God-knows-what, you ought to make the most of it." Maria turns to her, "Why don't you keep your clever opinions to yourself?" she snaps.

Carla goes to the bar for more drink and tells Michelle that Maria couldn't stand the pace. "Or the company," says Michelle. Carla just thinks she's so touchy. "What bloke is going to want to live with that?" she says. Michelle tells her she doesn't know anything about it. "About what?" asks Carla, so Michelle takes her into the back room and tells her to get off Maria's back. "I don't get it, I'm only having a laugh," says Carla. Michelle tells her that Maria doesn't see it like that, and ends up telling her how Liam called out for Carla on the night of his accident. "So you can imagine what she's been thinking ever since," says Michelle.

Jason gets out of a taxi as Eileen walks towards her house. She notices that he has a fat lip. "Tell me Sarah didn't do that?" she says. "She was trying to make a point," he says. "It's over."

Just then the stag party walk into the Rovers, but Liam isn't with them. Michelle notices that Ryan seems to have had a few drinks and she isn't happy, so sends him off to bed. Carla wants to know where Liam is, and they all laugh.

Jason is talking to his mum, telling her that it was the ‘Becky thing' that tipped it. At first Eileen assumes it's Gail who's told Sarah, but Jason tells her he told her himself. "How do you know she hasn't done the same to you?" asks Eileen, but Jason says she hasn't. Jason says it's all happened because he's been a total pillock, he let her go once and now he's lost her for good.

Claire and Fiz knock on Maria's door, and tell her to get her coat and come and sort her fiance out. We then see Liam, dressed only in his boxer shorts and a cowboy hat, tied by the wrist to the bus stop, singing 'Blue Moon'. As Maria goes to get her coat, Carla walks round the corner and sees him and starts laughing. She goes over and starts to undo him. Just then Maria and girls come round the other corner. "What the hell are you doing?" shrieks Maria, and rushes forward. She tells Carla to get off him, and, putting her arm round him, takes Liam off home.

Annie Logan.

Here we are: The eve of the wedding. Maria brings Liam a hot drink, which is apparently the cure for looking like death warmed up. She tells him it's lucky he didn't have his stag night the night before the wedding. She tells him he could have caught pneumonia. Maria's off shopping with Liam's mum. She gives him a list of errands to be done while she's out.

In the street she meets Carla and Michelle. She tells them everything's nearly ready for the wedding. "Let's hope he turns up, then," says Carla. Maria gives her a Look and stalks off with Carla calling after her: "It's a joke!" She grumbles to Michelle that she can't help it if Maria's paranoid. Nearby, Kirk tells Fizz that Chesney's home with a cold and she promises to check on him during the day. Kirk suggests she get some bread, because they've run out. "Oh, and some milk. And some spuds." "Tell you what," says Fizz, "I'll just do your weekly shop for you, shall I?" Kirk, completely immune to sarcasm, thanks her very much. She goes to join her workmates outside the factory. Kelly's bought a card for Liam. "In Deepest Sympathy," it says. She thinks it's appropriate because Liam's marrying Maria when he could have had Kelly. Liam, still looking bad, arrives for work as Carla opens the door. She's still very glum.

It's Amy's birthday and in the back of the Rovers, Amy's opening her presents and Steve's reading her the cards. Including one from Mummy. Ryan's lying on the sofa looking pretty much like his Uncle Liam. Michelle's trying to hustle him off to school, despite his hangover. Steve tells her to go easy. "We've all been there." Michelle points out that Steve should have looked after Ryan. Steve suddenly hustles Ryan up and off to school. Amy gets a line, here! Steve asks what she wants for breakfast and she says "Cake." Steve says she'll get cake at the party and reminds Michelle she has to pick it up. Michelle's a bit distracted by sending a text, until Steve takes the phone out of her hands and asks if she can concentrate on Amy today, instead of Alex. She apologises.

"I'm getting married in the morning!" Yes, singing while they work, the factory staff do their best to make Liam's head pound. As they tease him, Carla is very distant. Liam gives Wiki some cash to get cakes all round. He goes into the office and asks Carla if she's all right. She seems a bit quiet. Carla says she's concentrating on her work, unlike others who think a wedding is an excuse to sit around and natter.

Harry's advice seems to have hit home and Baby Bookie (their names will both sink in eventually) is in the cafe trying to chat up Becky. She asks Roy to take over and goes to clear some tables. Roy explains that Becky's off men at the moment. Kelly and Sean come in. Sean's told her about Jason having a cut lip and Kelly has 97 questions about it, but Sean doesn't know the answer. Becky overhears, asking Sean if Sarah's dumped Jason. "Oooh, me heart bleeds for ‘im," she says.

Jason goes into the taxi office where Steve is shouting at the horse race on the radio. He doesn't win. Eileen's not surprised. "Men are mugs," she points out, "as my son can testify." Jason wonders what happened to sympathy, but Eileen points out that sympathy has to be earned and Jason has only himself to blame. Steve agrees, which riles Jason. "You told him?" "We tell each other everything," Eileen says, drawing Steve's head to her bosom. Steve agrees they're like an old married couple and invites Jason to call him Dad. Eileen can think of one other person who will be feeling as lousy at Jason. "Sarah?" Jason asks. Steve points out that Eileen is thinking about Becky. Jason thinks he'd best go over and apologise. Eileen thinks that might be difficult.

Liz is in the chair at the salon, Maria bustles in. She's run out of waxing strips at home and doesn't want to go down the aisle with one leg hairy and one not. Audrey explains to Liz that they're off to the hotel later to check everything's OK. Maria apparently keeps changing her mind about how she wants her hair and Liz says that's OK as long as she doesn't change her mind about turning up on the big day. Maria tells her that's impossible and the big day can't some soon enough. She dashes away again, a big smile on her face.

Liam's about the leave the factory. "I'll see you at the wedding," he tells Carla. He gets caught by Kelly, who presents him with the card and a big pair of boxer shorts. They burst into a chorus from West Side Story ("Maria, Maria, Maria . . ." Carla, still looking very sorry for herself, asks if they've got no homes to go to and they rush out with Liam, showering him with confetti, putting an L-plate on him . . . Liam tells them he's keeping himself pure for the missus. An even glummer Carla goes back to the office.

Roy hands Michelle a package and won't charge because it's a gift from a godfather. Michelle's phone goes as she goes out. Some of the factory crew come in, with Kelly regretting she doesn't have a fella. Jason comes in and balks a bit when he sees the audience, but he goes up to Becky and tells her he's sorry. Whack! She hits him right across the chops. "I'm not!" she says. Roy suggests it's time she went home and Lloyd offers to drive her. Roy says he's sorry. "It's all right, I probably deserved it," says Ryan. "I didn't say you didn't," Roy points out.

As Lloyd races to catch up with Becky outside, Michelle is on the phone to Alex. She agrees to meet him in half an hour. She sees Steve and tells her she has to go and see Alex. Steve points out that she promised to give him a miss for the day. "It's Amy's birthday." Michelle points out that she's missed every one of Alex's birthdays. She hands him the package from Roy's, saying she'll be back in time for the party.

Maria's packed and ready to leave when Liam comes up behind her. He gives her a hug and tells her she doesn't have to go and stay at Audrey's. He reassures her that he loves her. He wants to know if she'll still love him in 50 years time. Or when he's wearing the boxers the girls made for him. "You could be wearing stockings and suspenders and I'd still be saying it," Maria tells him. They kiss and he escorts her to the door.

"This time tomorrow, I'll be Mrs Connor," she says, and they kiss goodbye on the doorstep. They don't know Carla has just come out of the factory and is watching them. As Maria disappears up the street, Carla pauses, then rushes down the steps and across the cobbles, only to be brought to a halt by Tony's car stopping in front of her. He thinks she works too hard and he's come to take her for a meal. Or a quick drink at the Rovers. She finally agrees.

Jason comes out of Roy's with an ice-pack held to his face. Or possibly a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel. Gail hates to say it (I bet!) but she thinks Jason deserved it. She asks about Sarah and he says he didn't get anywhere. If he could turn back time he would – he'd get on the plane no matter what she'd done. But he told Sarah about Becky and Sarah told him it was over. Gail suggests maybe it was over already. Perhaps Jason had already lost her, "or she'd lost you." But she agrees he can't turn back the clock. "Take care of yourself." They part on at least civil terms.

Michelle is back in the cafe where Alex didn't turn up. He can't explain why but says he bottled it. She explains she had to change her plans to pick up her parents. This interests Alex, who asks about his grandparents and is interested to find he has Irish blood. He asks about the box on the table and Michelle tells him it's Amy's cake for her fourth birthday. He asks if Amy is his sister and Michelle explains she's not. "So am I the only kid you've got, then?" "No," says Michelle very firmly. "There's Ryan." She sure he must feel the same way about Wendy and Nick, but he denies it. "They never got me, and now I know why." Michelle pulls an envelope from her bag. It's a picture of his dad. "He looks just like me," says a pleased Alex.

Vernon is blowing up balloons in the bar. Steve wants all of them blown up. Steve's taking Amy next door and Vernon is left to blow up 50 balloons and serve at the bar. Steve says Michelle's been held up and will be back soon. In one of the booth's the girls can't believe Sean didn't tell them about Jason and Becky. Kelly goes to the bar and is chatted up by the junior bookie. He asks if she's stalking him and says that if he did have a stalker he'd choose her. In another booth, Tony is talking about buying a gift for Liam and Maria. Carla tells him to shut up about the wedding. She says Tony barely knows them and he's more interested in the wedding than she is. "It's called making an effort," Tony points out. "Maybe you should try it some time." Harry comes in and tells his son he owes him a drink. Dan (OK, I looked up his name – I think I keep forgetting because I wish he'd leave) says he doesn't. Harry says he does, because he bet his father he would have bedded one of the factory girls by Friday. Though strictly speaking, it's not over until midnight," he concedes. "Oh, yes it is," says Kelly. She thanks Dan for the drink and goes back to the others. Dan is about to hit his dad. Carla is in such a bad mood that Tony leaves her where she is. She goes to the bar and shouts at her staff for looking at her.

Ryan arrives at Liam's. He needs some cufflinks because he doesn't like the Ninja Turtle ones that Steven wants to lend him. Liam goes upstairs to fetch some.

In the pub, Carla's still at the bar where she can hear the others talking about where Liam and Maria might be going on their honeymoon. She storms out to the loo, glaring at herself in the mirror as if to defy herself to cry. Then she takes out her lipstick.

Ryan wants his suit and Liam's to be exactly the same and is annoyed to hear they're not. Liam tells him to go upstairs and put on his own so Liam can see what it looks like. Ryan does, but he calls down and asks if all the factory workers are coming tomorrow. Some are, Liam tells him. "Which one do you fancy?" It turns out he likes the look of Kelly. "She'd eat you for breakfast," Liam says. "I wouldn't mind," replies Ryan. There's a knock at the door. It's Carla. She says they have to talk. Liam says they can't. It'll have to wait. "No, it can't wait," she says. "Tomorrow might be too late." And she pushes past him into the house.

End of episode one
Episode Two coming later.

Margaret Carr

where do the weeks go? Time for another update, this episode was written by Debbie Oates and directed by Start Davids.

Events commence in the Liam Connor household where Liam and Carla are interrupted by Ryan descending the stairs asking for her to comment on the difference in the shirts which do not match.

Alex is looking at a picture of Dean and he is asking Michelle what his father might have wanted. She thinks he would have found it strange. Alex makes it clear he wants to live with her. Alex does not like either of his homes - Nick shouts at him and Wendy's boyfriend has some precious kids.

Lloyd offers Becky a tea - he wants to know why she had got nasty with Jason. She does not offer an explanation and does not even drink the tea.

In the Street Fiz is talking to Kirk about Chesney - she is clearly in a mood. Further along Emily meets Audrey and Maria emerging from the salon. Emily wants to check all is ready - something new, something old, borrowed, blue. Maria admits to having overlooked this so Emily offers to lend a blue scarab from Egypt as this will take care of old, borrowed and blue at one fell swoop. She will drop it in later.

Back at Connor land they are still arguing over shirts - but Liam offers to run him into town to get a replacement. Carla tries to get Liam to talk to her about him not getting married - she uses all the tricks in the book.

At the reception location everything is laid up and prepared - and it looks lovely. Maria thinks it is cold - no heating. Audrey goes to check about the heating. Barry and his wife share a joke. The heating is not on to save the flowers, it will be coming on at 7 in the morning. Barry gets the microphone working.

Vernon is blowing up balloons for Amy's party. They are waiting for Michelle who has the baby's cake.

Michelle is trying to tell Alex she has to go. He wants to go back with her to meet Amy. Alex accuses her of not telling Ryan about their meeting. Michelle tries to discourage him - it is all too quick. He wants to see the cake. He tells her to go to the family party and then departs.

Carla has returned to her flat, the bell goes and she lets Liam in. He is only there to tell her to back off - and if she does anything to upset Maria tomorrow then she will have to answer to him. Carla has nothing against Maria - even though Liam has decided to spend the rest of his life with her. Carla is convinced he is making the wrong decision - on the basis of one kiss - it is not enough. And the events in the hotel? He felt nothing in the hotel and he had no need to see her this evening. She reckons he is confused as her. Not so he says - you are scheming, jealous bitch. Anyway Carla reveals how Liam was shouting for her in the hospital. He reckons she is lying - but it is the truth. When he was frightened he was calling for Carla.

At Amy's party there is no sign of Michelle or the cake. Amy has thrown a real wobbly apparently, although Steve has tried to calm her down. Emily departs to drop off the scarab for Maria. Ken reveals that scarabs are more commonly used at funerals, rather than weddings! Ryan arrives and asks after Amy. Then he asks after Michelle. Ryan guesses that she is with Alex.

Carla wants Liam to think about what he is doing. Carla alleges that Maria got pregnant on purpose. Carla still reckons there was more in his screams for her in the hospital. Maria was so worried it was the reason she wanted to get married quickly. Carla says that Maria cannot see the real Liam - he is more complex, Maria is shallow. He claims Maria understands him - maybe. But he does not seem certain and starts shouting.

At Audrey's Liam's parents want to know why Maria's parents are not coming. The cruise is explained. Bill has been creosoting and cannot join them until he has been through a boil wash. Helen gives Maria a nice piece of jewelry - this covers old and new.

Michelle meets Steve outside the Rovers where he tells her off for being so late.

Maria remembers that she has to collect the scarab and books a taxi.

Liam is drinking in the Street when Carla emerges out of the dark. She asks if he has ever felt anything for her. She feels there is something - right or wrong.

Fiz and Kirk meet in the Rovers. Fiz complains about her mother then decides that Chesney is moving in with her.

Michelle claims she did not choose Alex over Amy - but events prove otherwise. Steve and Michelle talk - he has told Ryan she as seeing Alex. She cannot get Alex out of her head - but he is their kid. She says sorry and Steve is understanding - he suggests that it is "Boxing BirthDay" and the cake is special.

Carla and Liam are still talking. She tells him not to settle for second best. He says he makes his own decisions. Carla says that Maria will never be enough for him - whereas she will be. They kiss again then Liam breaks away. He says he loves Maria. Carla does not want to feel like this.

Maria arrives in the Street and she watches as Carla and Liam emerge from the house. Carla is still trying - marrying Maria will give Liam only half a life - it is just asking for trouble. She briefly kisses him and walks away. The final shot is one of Maria, looking totally stunned in the back of the taxi.

K Richard W

Hi all. This is the first update I've written in a long time, and what an episode to get my fingers wet again! I used to write classic Corrie episodes when they aired on a Canadian cable station and now, thanks to the magic of the Internet, I can view and review the UK episodes almost as they happen.

It looks like the blushing bride didn't get much sleep. She's sitting in a chair staring at her dress which is laid across the bed when Audrey brings in a cup of tea and offers cucumber slices for that extra luggage under her eyes.

Liam must have gone out early for milk. He's arrived back and looks at the box of buttonhole flowers while Carla, also up early, toys with her mobile.

Chesney models his new suit for Fiz and Kirk. Fiz notes that the legs need hemming (not for long though, that boy is sprouting up like a weed!) She has to go to Maria so Kirk promises to sort the trousers and Chesney runs upstairs for a pin. Fiz looks dubious, causing Kirk to whine "Why does everyone think I'm rubbish at everything?" and is then horrified to discover Schmeichel laying on his suit which was on the settee. Fiz shakes her head and leaves them to it.

Carla, sitting in dim light, calls Liam but Ryan answers because Liam is in the shower. She makes him promise not to forget to tell Liam to call her.

Mama Connor is making a cooked breakfast for Papa Connor in Audrey's kitchen. Audrey seems skeptical about eggs in general. I'm not entirely sure she's even been that familiar with a frying pan since Alf died. Maria isn't really cheered up by Fiz's boisterous arrival and escapes from the filling room.

Liam and Ryan are getting ready and Ryan's hair is even brushed out of his eyes! He tells Liam about Carla's call but Michelle arrives to admire Ryan and they all have a family moment. Meanwhile, Carla is putting her face on. It's still dark in that room. That explains the horrific hat she was wearing later on! She contemplates the phone again but goes back to her lippy.

Helen and Barry have arrived to see Liam and they joke about ugly relatives ("face like a badly made pie") Chesney is there too. He's an usher, apparently and has come to see Ryan. I'd no idea they were any sort of mates. Where have I been? Helen does the obligatory "My little boy getting married!!!" thing and the family shares a laugh or two.

Over at Audrey's, Maria's getting the finishing touches on her hair from Audrey while Fiz chatters about Chesney and sorts out her own makeup. She remarks that she'd like to have Ches live with her but Audrey objects to the dog in residence. Maria fails to find enthusiasm for her lovely hair do or the wedding day in general and it's getting noticeable. She puts it down to nerves and then says she never did get the scarab that Emily lent her. It's at Liam's and Audrey offers to get it because it's bad luck for the groom and bride to see each other on the wedding day. (Especially since the bride has already seen some other harpy kissing her intended the night before the wedding day!)

Tony has come to get Carla and she's in a snarly mood. He compliments her appearance and she's somewhat acerbic about the Princess Bride. He suggests they bunk off the wedding and go to London for the day instead since neither of them really want to go to the wedding. She picks an argument and tells him she won't go anywhere with him. It sounds more like a hissy fit than "we're finished" but that seems to be the way they've both taken it. Tony slams out and Carla looks unconcerned.

Liam's dad is bouncing around the room to a tune that was played at his and Helen's wedding 43 years since. Audrey comes in for the beetle brooch. Liam goes all soft and asks Audrey to tell Maria he loves her whereupon nearly everyone in the room joins in a group "Awwww!!!" - or if they didn't exactly, they might as well have.

Back at the house, Maria is in tears and finally tells Fiz about the kiss. No, not a full-on snog, but "she kissed his cheek!" Fiz is sure Maria's making too much out of it but Maria is sure Liam wants Carla, not her. She dashes off and the waterworks are in full stream again. She locks herself in the bedroom while Fiz sits outside trying to talk to her.

At the lovely country hotel, the guests are arriving. Steve pulls up in a taxi with Michelle and the Connors senior. Helen pinches Ryan's cheek and tells him how cute he looks. From the look on his face, I reckon it's probably for the 88th time that day. Heavens! They've even brought Ozzy to the hotel! Michelle takes Ryan to one side for a quiet word. She apologizes for all the upset recently but says she promised Alex she'd keep in touch so she "sort of" has to. (Um. As in. Wild horses can't seem to keep her away). She promises to always put him first and he believes her but I don't. They, plus Steve, have a family type moment with Steve being goofy so as not to seem all sentimental. They all agree not to mention Alex and to enjoy the wedding, virtually guaranteeing that something else will kick off. Watch this space.

Back at Audrey's, she's got back with the scarab and hears about Maria's meltdown and why.

Back at the hotel, Violet waddles in with Jamie and they greet Liam. The Connors Senior are complimenting Carla. She does look lovely, from the neck down, if you think that a skin tight, strapless, flaming red sheath is appropriate for an afternoon wedding. The netting, feathers and frou frou of that hat, though, are practically vibrating around her head. It's horrible and very distracting. Really. But I digress. Carla cryptically tells them that she's chucked Tony and got her eye on someone else. Liam shuffles his feet uncomfortably.

Kirk arrives and Maria is still not dressed. Fiz tells her that Liam adores her and she wishes someone would adore her like that. She doesn't see the longing look on Kirk's face behind her. Kirk tries but can't find the right words so Fiz takes him off to put the kettle on while Audrey takes her turn. She takes no prisoners, telling Maria she's a silly girl and Liam wanted her to know he loved her. He said it in front of everyone too and does she really want to let him down and humiliate him? A kiss on the cheek is hardly "dead loving" as Maria had suggested but as Audrey rightly points out, why would they canoodle on the cobbles where all the busy bodies could see? Alfeh used to say you couldn't break wind on Coronation Street without everyone knowing. That finally cracks a smile from Maria's miserable mouth and it looks like she's going to go through with it.

At the hotel, Liam's waiting and Carla's stalking, hand on hip. She feathers her fingers through his fringe (I'm getting the hang of this alliteration, did you notice?) She repeats her mantra about Maria not being right for Liam but they are interrupted by the factory bees who's ribald remarks lower the tone and cut the tension. He tells them all that Maria's the only woman for him (take that, Carla!)

Outside, the wedding car Rolls up. Kirk thinks he's making a joke by assuring Maria that she can always back out no matter how much money is wasted. She shouldn't marry the wrong person. Of course he has no idea it took Audrey and Fiz all day to convince Maria to go through with it and instantly she's gone off the rails again. Kirk is all upset, he didn't really mean it! Audrey sends him in to fetch Liam. Now!

Everyone is seated, waiting. Liam looks nervous, wondering where his bride is, and glancing over at Carla who's staring at him with a sultry hunger. The guests are restless and getting antsy. Steve and Barry try to sneak out for a drink but are pulled back down by their respective partners. Sean and the others make inappropriate jokes about what they'd say when the pause after the "Does anyone here know why these two should not..." bit. Kirk arrives and tells Liam that Maria won't get out of the car. He tells the guests there's a bit of a delay and then hurries out to the car where he finds Maria with mascara running down her cheeks again. She squeaks that she can't marry him! Liam's jaw drops and we have to wait 30 minutes to find out if he can find the right words to woo her up the aisle.

Diane/Tvor

We rejoin Liam and Maria's wedding. The guests are sitting waiting patiently in the reception room while Maria blubs, "I just want to go 'ome!" Audrey urges Maria to speak to Liam while Kirkeh and Fizz look on in dismay. Liam and Maria are left to talk it out amongst themselves as Audrey, Fizz and Kirk are sent inside to ask everybody to sit tight for a bit. Liam urges Maria to go for a walk and to talk to him. As they walk, Liam reveals he's no idea why Maria is having second thoughts and then Maria just blurts it out, "Carla! I can't live my life like this, always second best!"

In the reception hall, Carla tries to sneak out to see what's going on. "Oh, are you doing a runner?" asks Kelly and when Carla tells her she's going to the toilet Kelly says she'll come too. Carla sits back down. Sharp-ish like. Vicki asks where Tony is but is given short shrift when Carla tells her he's sitting right next to her, "He's come as the invisible man." Meanwhile, Helen is getting anxious and wants to go and find out what's happening but Barry tells her to leave Liam and Maria be.

Audrey and Fizz come in to the reception hall, down the aisle. As Sean sees them he exclaims to his posse of machinists, "Audrey and Fizz in Lesbian Wedding Shock!" which causes much cackling. After being apprised by Audrey and Fizz of the goings on outside, the celebrant asks for the guests to be patient just a little while longer. Michelle looks anxious.

Outside, Maria tells Liam about how he called Carla's name when he was delirious at the hospital. Liam admits he knew that but, frustrated, he tries to tell Maria that he's not in love with Carla. He tells Maria maybe Carla thinks she in love with him because of Paul, maybe he's the next best thing since Paul died. He angrily denies sticking up for Carla.

Inside, Michelle's stomach is tying in knots with nerves. Ryan asks her how does she think he feels, he thinks he's going to forget his speech. Michelle reassures him it'll come back to him. "Yeah," jokes Steve, "Probably in a week, Tuesday!" which exasperates Michelle but made me snort. He advises Ryan that if he gets in trouble with the speech, he should just sing a Celine Dion song, there won't be a dry eye in the house.

Outside again with the bride and groom, and Liam is desperately trying to get Maria to believe him that he loves her. He gets a message on his mobile. Guess who it's from!?! The message says, "DON'T MAKE THE BIGGEST MISTAKE OF YOUR LIFE. I WANT YOU" Maria throws the mobile phone across the lawn. "That is the most sensible thing you've done today," says Liam. All of a sudden, Carla's face appears. Maria hikes her skirts up off the grass and storms off, Liam in hot pursuit.

Inside with the guests, Violet opens a bag of crisps to Jamie's astonishment. Carla sneaks back in.

Outside, Liam asks Maria if she loves him. She tells him that he knows she does but the problem is Carla; even on their wedding day, Carla can't leave them alone. Liam asks if she trusts him. Maria says she trusts Liam but can't trust Carla. Liam assures Maria that he loves her and wants to marry her. She's won over in the end and they run back together to get married.

Inside, the machinists are talking about Sally's fallen arches and the wonders of gel insoles. I wholeheartedly agree on the gel insoles thing- they're magic for when you're on your feet all day. Liam finally arrives and the wedding is ON. Maria looks beautiful as she walks down the aisle, even when she gives Carla a filthy look. Nobody knows of any lawful impediment why they shouldn't be married, although the factory girls do egg Sean on a bit. It turns out that Liam's middle name is Barrington which is slightly amusing. Liam and Maria are married while Carla looks on jealously.

At the wedding reception, Vernon and Liz discuss being sat at the back of the hall. Obviously Liam and Maria don't think much of them. Kelly is delighted to report that they have a free bar! Sean challenges the girls to drink Mr Connor bankrupt. Liam stands up to make a speech in which he declares his love for Maria and tells how she's not only beautiful on the inside but on the outside too. Carla has a bit of a cry! She rushes out in tears while Liam is applauded. Ryan stands to make his speech. He tells how Liam is like a dad to him. "He's been a top role model. He's dead generous, smart, good-looking... What does this say, Liam? I can't read your writing..." he says, making everyone laugh right before Alex busts in and puts poor Ryan off his stride. Michelle and Steve go rushing to him as Ryan tries to regain his composure. He watches as Michelle and Steve go outside with Alex.

In the bathroom, Carla is crying when Maria comes in and asks if Carla is not going to congratulate her. "Even on his wedding day, you couldn't leave him alone," says Maria, "how sad is that?" Carla tells Maria that Liam is her mate and she didn't want him making a huge mistake. Maria knows she's lying and mocks Carla, "I can 'ave 'im any time I want!" she sneers to Carla. She gloats over Carla and asks her if she'll leave them alone now that they're married. Carla says maybe she will, maybe she won't. Smack! Maria gives Carla a stinging slap on the face and we all give a cheer! Carla simply smiles and tells Maria how she can see that Maria has fooled Liam into thinking that Maria is a sweet and kind-hearted. Maria tells Carla to have some dignity for once in her life and to leave Maria and Liam alone, since they've made their commitment to each other today. She leaves Carla alone in the bathroom.

Outside, Alex seemingly can't see why him turning up at Liam's wedding is such a big deal, after all he just wants to see his family. He puts pressure on Michelle to tell everyone who he is. Michelle explains how it's supposed to be Liam's day. Alex emotionally manipulates Michelle by telling her that she only thinks of him as an embarrassment.

Inside at the party, Dev takes Kelly up for a dance while outside, Michelle and Steve pack Alex off into Lloyd's taxi to take him home. Ryan comes out and tells Alex how he's ruined the day. Michelle gets into the taxi with Alex, much to Ryan's dismay. Maria comes out with Ozzie and Liam and misunderstands the situation completely, asking Michelle to take Ozzie back in the taxi with her. She gets it once she clocks the looks on Ryan and Liam's faces though. Inside, the factory girls are dancing up a storm while Dev is making a fool of himself with Violet, Jamie and a guest who may or may not be Liam's friend from the stag night. Liam and Maria dance and decide to go up to the honeymoon suite to.... well, to do whatever it is people do in honeymoon suites. They say their good nights and thank everyone for sharing their great day. Maria throws the bouquet which Sean catches to everyone's delight. Kelly remarks to Carla that "it looks like you're going to be on the shelf for ever, dunnit? Gathering dust!" Carla tells them she wants them all in for work tomorrow on time. No excuses.

Up in the honeymoon suite, Mr Connor kisses Mrs Connor and tells her he loves her before giving her a big sloppy kiss. Downstairs, Carla leaves the party alone, not before looking up towards the honeymoon suite window, wistfully. Or something.

Stella McLoughlin

Carla wakes up on her sofa, a half finished glass of red wine on the coffee table in front of her. She struggles to a sitting position and fumbles in her handbag. She pulls out some tablets and takes one.

Meanwhile, Maria and Liam are enjoying their first morning as husband and wife. He's suffering slightly from the effects of too much beer, while she sits up in bed beside him and cheerfully tucks into a full English breakfast.

In the Rovers, Vernon is full of ideas for refurbishing the pub, much to Steve's alarm. Michelle says she's getting a ‘scary wine bar feeling'. "I'm thinking leather," says Vernon. "And that's just for the staff!" quips Liz. As Vernon takes Steve off to one side to look at his ideas and colour schemes, Liz has a quiet word with Michelle and asks how things are with Alex. Michelle tells her that she told him he had no right barging into the wedding. "And did he listen?" asks Liz. She then wanders over to where Vernon is showing Steve his wallpaper samples, and when Vernon has rushed off to fetch more examples of his ideas, she tells Steve she wonders what he's let himself in for with all these kids. "What are you on about?" asks Steve, "Amy's a little star." She explains that it's the two big sons she's bothered about. Steve says that he knew Michelle came with baggage, he just hadn't realised how much.

Helen and Barry and Ryan are having breakfast in their hotel. They comment on how strange it was, the boy turning up at the reception. Ryan tells them he's just a weirdo, and Helen says she hopes he's not on drugs. Ryan says he hardly knows him.

In the cafe, Becky is exchanging some loud and lively banter with a group of builders who've come in. Roy is on the phone and asks for a 'brief interval of decorum'. When he hangs up, he tells her that he's thinking of visiting Hayley in Africa. Becky tells him that nothing would make Hayley happier than to see his beaming little face get off that plane, and he can safely leave the cafe in her hands.

At the hotel, Ryan and his grandparents are waving Maria and Liam off on their honeymoon.

Back in the Rovers, the factory girls come in for a drink and Kelly announces that she's broke, she hasn't started the knicker parties yet because she doesn't know what she's doing. Wiki says she gave her all the information, what more does she want?

Emily and Rita come in and, seeing Jack sitting alone, come over intending to join him. He, however, makes a hasty getaway.

Behind the bar, Steve puts the phone down, telling Michelle that her mum and dad will be there at any minute. "Just don't mention Alex, ok?" mutters Michelle.

Over in the cafe, Roy is wondering if he ought to leave Becky alone for two weeks. Just then Ken, Deirdre and Blanche come in. Seeing them, Roy has an idea. Maybe Ken would be willing to stand in and help her while he's away.

Michelle's parents arrive with Ryan, but they're not stopping, they have to get to the airport. As they hug and say their goodbyes, Alex watches from across the Street, and Ryan whispers to Michelle that they think Alex is on drugs.

Michelle and Steve and Ryan then have a debate in the back room of the Rovers, about whether or not the grandparents should have been told about Alex. Steve reckons that by lying now they've dug themselves into a situation that's going to be really hard to get out of, but Michelle is adamant that they could hardly have told them at the wedding that Ryan wasn't their grandson and the other kid was. Ryan thinks they've just made it worse, but he says that Alex can't just walk into the family and start taking over. "That's my grandma and granddad, not his," he says. Just then Liz bursts in and asks Michelle to go out to the bar and serve.

When she gets back to the bar, Liz sees Alex come in. He asks if he can see his mum, and just then Michelle comes through. She tells him he can't keep doing this. He asks if they can go somewhere, and Liz nods her head. Michelle takes him out into the hall, where he apologises for turning up the night before. He pulls a present out of a bag and gives it to her. He tells her he saw her mum and dad go in the taxi. "You didn't tell them, did you?" he says. She tells him she wanted to, but she felt he put her in a really difficult situation.

Jack goes into the Rovers, to be told by Emily and Rita that they're taking him out to lunch again on Friday.

Ryan comes into the bar, he was going to play football but there was no-one out. Meanwhile, in the back room, Michelle is going through old photo albums with Alex, showing him family photos. Just then Ryan comes in, and Michelle jumps up guiltily as if she's been caught doing something illegal! "Everyone having a nice time? What's he doing here?" he says. "Talking to my mum!" replies Alex. Ryan then tries to pull the photo album away, telling him it has nothing to do with him. Liz rushes in then and gets between the two boys, and then goes out to get Steve, who comes in and tells the two of them to sit down and shut up. Michelle then goes off to phone Nick.

Roy and Becky come into the Rovers, and ask Ken if he'll help out in the café while Roy is away in Africa. Ken agrees, and then Blanche comes back to the table. When she hears what's been proposed she asks if she's ceased to exist. Roy explains that he was keen to avoid a personality clash, as it was over an extended period. "Who with?" asks Blanche. "Me," says Becky. "Backstabbers, the lot of you!" spits Blanche, and departs. Becky sits Roy down to discuss things with Ken, telling him not to worry about his flat, she'll move into it whilst he's gone!

Over in the factory, Carla asks Rosie what the workers are whispering about. Rosie tells her that they're saying she's in a foul mood because Tony finished with her. Carla tells her that actually she finished with him, and adds that she appreciates Rosie keeping her informed about what's happening on the shop floor.

Michelle tells Alex that from now on they set times to see each other and they tell each other what's happening. Just then Liz puts her head round the door and says that Nick has arrived. Steve goes out to tell him Alex is coming, and Michelle tells Alex that he'll go with his dad and he'll do nothing until she rings him. "What about me?" says Ryan. Michelle tells him he'll stop asking stupid questions. Ryan goes out and Michelle turns to Alex. She tells him she's not pushing him away but they can't carry on like this.

Outside, Nick is talking to Steve when Michelle comes out with Alex. Nick is cross with him and orders him into the car, and then he drives off.

Anne Logan

We open in the Kabin where Norris is sorting the papers in the delivery bags. Alex comes in, asks about the cafe's opening times and Norris recognises him as the lad who slept on a park bench last night. Alex buys a bar of chocolate for breakfast and tells Norris his mum will pay – "Michelle Connor. She lives in the pub." Norris isn't fooled. He knows Michelle Connor and he knows her son. Alex tells Norris He's Michelle's real son, switched at birth.

Roy is out and about, getting ready to head off to Africa. He's nearly ready, though Lloyd tells him he doesn't need to leave until at least 11. As Lloyd turns back towards the taxi office he spots Alex taking a couple of pints from the milk float, and makes a half-hearted shout to let the boy know he's been seen.

Steve's feeding Amy, who's apparently refusing to do anything unless she's called Princess. Steve and Vernon have a little mini-row over the right way to handle it, which is also a little row over how Liz and Vernon should decorate the pub. Steve doesn't want it to look like one of Vernon's shirts. Our concerned Canadian viewers will be pleased to hear that Amy seems to be over the catatonia brought on by having Tracy as a mum, and is now interacting with the other actors and even getting a few lines. Either that or she's being played by a different child entirely . . .

Alex is at the bar entrance to the Rovers when Michelle and Ryan head off towards the bus stop. Michelle is worried that something is worrying Ryan. He says he doesn't want Alex there five minutes, but Michelle assures him that Alex has been told to ring to check it's OK and if he turns up uninvited, he'll be sent away. Alex has tucked himself out of sight. Not far away, Rosie and Carla are engaged in a close conversation outside the factory. The machinists speculate on what it might be about, but they don't find out before Carla opens the door and shepherds them all in.

At the cafe, Becky arrives with two huge bin liners full of her stuff. "What did you bring?" asks an incredulous Roy. "I'm not taking that much to Africa!" Becky's thrilled. She's never had anywhere to herself.

Sean, Eileen and Rita don't believe Norris's story about Alex. Norris asks Sean if he's noticed anything while he's been working at the pub. Sean, of course, is reluctant to talk about anyone else's private life (I jest, of course) and tells them there's been a very funny atmosphere and a kid knocking about. Norris counts that as conclusive proof. Sean leaves and Norris starts to question Eileen. She tells him that she happens to know that the real Ryan Connor lives in Brazil and goes by the name of Fernando.

Jamie and Violet are at the breakfast table when Sean rings. Sean makes an appointment to meet Violet for lunch. She's reluctant but agrees.

Back at the cafe, Becky tries to reassure Roy that he's prepared and so is she. He thinks maybe he shouldn't go. He looks around the cafe and says there's so much than could go wrong. "Mainly your relationship with Hayley if you don't go," says Becky. Ken and Blanche come in. "Oh, am I happy to see you!" says Becky. "I meant Ken!" Blanche has come to show him the ropes because Becky will be no use. Blanche tells Ken to ignore everything Becky says. But Ken says Becky will be his boss and he'll do what he's told. Becky proudly points out to Roy that Ken's got confidence in her, and he's educated. "Look, nothing can possibly go wrong."

In the factory office, Carla grabs her bag and coat and heads out, telling Rosie to keep an eye peeled. Rosie agrees and goes to the lunchroom (well, it's more of a space than a room) where the machinists are having a break. They're very sarcastic about her mixing with the troops. Even Sally suggests she should have stayed in the office. Fizz won't stay while Rosie is there and flees. They give up on Rosie and go back to discussing why Tony might have dumped Carla.

Steve and Michelle come out of the Rovers. Steve's reassuring Michelle that Ryan will be OK. He's just a moody teenager. Just after Steve goes, Nick rings Michelle to find out where Alex is. He's missing.

Jack and Paul are crossing the road, but when Jack sees Rita and Emily he hides to avoid "man-eating pensioners". Rita and Emily are discussing what Norris said about Alex.

Carla is back and Rosie tells her that Kelly grilled her about Tony, and that Kelly's knicker parties aren't going very well. "You keep listening," says Carla.

Eileen goes into the taxi office where Steve is talking to Lloyd. She suggests Lloyd leave, but he doesn't, so she tells them that Norris heard Ryan wasn't Michelle's son. Steve admits it's true. Michelle comes in and asks to see Steve. Eileen and Lloyd beat a strategic retreat. Michelle says Alex has run away. "Well, he's not run far," Steve tells her, explaining that Alex has been in the Kabin and told Norris the whole story. "So the whole flipping street will know by now."

Jack's hiding in the bookies. Dan says it's a while since they've seen him and Jack realises it's exactly a month – January 18 he was last in and, unusually for him, he bet on a couple of Yankees. He doesn't know if they won because he didn't check. Dan offers to look them up on the computer. It seems Jack's bet won £3,172! But Jack explains that Tyrone put the bet on. Dan says he'd better get the slip from Tyrone or there will be no pay-out.

Jack runs across the road and asks Tyrone for the slip. It turns out that Tyrone gave the slip to Vera. He and Jack rush off home to look for it. They're lucky not to be in the street a few minutes later when they would have been trampled in the stampede that is the factory workers heading out on their lunchbreak. Rosie rushes out and tells Carla, who's beside her car, that Tony's on the phone for her. "Tell him I'm out," says Carla, getting into her car. Norris comes racing out towards the car, but Rita races after him and stops him flinging himself under the wheels to stop her. It's clearly an emergency. Yes, he wants to ask her about Ryan and Alex. "She's bound to know something!" "And supposing she doesn't?" asks Rita. "She should hear it from you?" She manhandles him back into the Kabin.

In the back of the Rovers, Nick's arrived. He tells Michelle and Steve there's no sign of Alex. He's run away two or three times in the past. Usually when he's been angry. He's got a temper. Michelle thinks he's probably just normal, but Nick says he's a loud-mouthed teenager with a fist full of grudges. He's never satisfied. Michelle thinks maybe Alex always realised something was wrong. Nick says he wishes they had. It would have saved them years of heartache. "So, you're just washing your hands of him?" asks Michelle, showing where Alex might have got his temper from. Nick points out that he's been out searching. But right now he's had enough and he's going home.

There's been a big search at Jack's. Paul's reluctant to look through Vera's clothes, though. Tyrone suggests the betting slip will be in Vera's handbag. But Jack can't face looking in either place and the boys don't want to, either. "We've found betting slips in here going back months," Tyrone tells Paul as they sift through the contents of a drawer. Paul says he'll go and have a word with Dan.

In the Rovers, Sean's lecturing Violet on organic baby foods. "It's gonna be the best-fed baby in the world!" Violet tells him the baby won't even be on solids until Christmas, so she doesn't want to hear another word. "Right!" says Violet. "I don't want to hear any more baby talk. You're desperate enough now. I don't know what you're going to be like when he's born!" She says Sean is boring her, so she's going home. Nearby, Emily advises Norris to say nothing. She's sure Norris got hold of the wrong end of the stick, but he wants to ask Liz what she knows.

In the street, Dan's telling Paul that the rules say "no ticket, no payout" and he can't bend them. They're interrupted in their stroll towards the Rovers by a police car pulling up and a constable getting Alex out of the back!

Inside, Michelle is agonising over where he might be. The policewoman says Alex says Michelle is his mother and that he lives at the Rovers. Steve says he doesn't live there. Alex argues that he does. "Is this where he lives or not?" insists the constable. Michelle looks undecided.

The End, of the first episode at least.

Margaret Carr

The police have returned Alex and Steve says he does not live there. Michelle confirms that she is his biological mother. Apparently her "son" was doing some shoplifting - two danish pastries, he has been told off and as there are no cells let in any jails in the country (copyright Jack Straw, once a let leaning president of the Students Union) it has been decided to release Alex into the care of his parents if any can be found which care for him (regular readers may not be aware that I think this storyline is ever so slightly surreal and I have trouble treating it seriously, but never mind). Apparently the shoplifting was a cry for help and not cause the lad is unloved and starving hungry. The policewoman goes and Michelle goes off on one which really makes feel like a wanted son. She thought they had an agreement only to do what the individual wanted and not to impose on others. He might be there - but he was not stopping. Anyway Michelle has worked out he might by hungry and in the absence of Betty and her hotpot actually has to produce something herself (does she ever do any cooking - with nails like those to look after?).

Paul cannot get Dan the apprentice bookie to pay out without a betting slip (and who can blame him?). Anyway Jack says he will talk to the father in the hope that he can get more sense out of him (unlikely he seems not to have the same charisma as he did in Cell Girls). Later Jack finds him in the cafe and Harry sticks to the same line - no ticket no payout. Someone else could have the ticket and what would happen then? Jack says no-one would, but Harry is giving no ground at all.

Anyway Michelle is now asking what Alex's parents might be thinking about his disappearance (luckily Paul is dead so we cannot ask him). Steve says they should refer to Wendy and Nick to avoid confusion (thanks Steve, most helpful). Apparently Alex no longer considers them his parents. (Just as well considering the haircut he has on his head). Michelle decides to call them (about time - it must be a good 30 minutes since the police showed up and they might just care (not much I admit - who does?)).

In the Rovers bar Dev and Norris are seeking information on the situation - Norris reveals that banksy the graffiti artist is not Michelle's son but the other one is! Alex is sent to sit in the bar under Liz's watchful eye once the call to Wendy and Nick has been made and they are on their way so there can be some sensible discussion in the back room.

Sean is worried that he has upset Vi and tells Lauren that he might have caused upset. Lauren gives the impression that everything you do and everything you say upsets Vi and he should not worry (Should Lauren b blonde I wonder?).

Along the Street Vi is bemoaning Sean's single mindedness baby, baby, baby, (although she actually says babies and I did not know she was having more than the one). He is bad enough now - and it has yet to be born. As Jamie helpfully points out Sean is not one to do things by half! Vi used to like that about Sean, but the full on father version is proving too much at present.

The factory girls are consuming a drink when Carla arrives and she senses she is the object of their interest so turns on them. Janice who obviously does not care observes that she is in a bad mood because that fella of hers has dumped her.

Marcus arrives and Sean again announces that he has upset Vi. Marcus does not want to know - a long shift and all he wants is some rest and relaxation to forget the day. Lauren overhears and decides she will go and visit Vi to find out if things are as bad as Sean fears. Anyway Vi works out why Lauren suddenly arrives. They argue and Lauren departs whilst Vi wails that now Sean is sending spies into check up on her!

Back at the Rovers Alex asks "Mum" if he can stay there for a while - it is so bad with Wendy and if they make him go back he will run away again. Michelle says that is what they are going to discuss.

Carla returns to the factory to find Tony waiting for her. He wants to check on his outstanding orders - unless they have been cancelled in which case she will be hearing from his lawyers. She tells him to come in. In the office she says their only relationship in future will be professional between the two firms. He states that deliveries had better be made on time in future and Carla points out that payments also need to be made on time. He apologises and says his firm will honour its contracts in future and that Underworld will do likewise. He picks up his briefcase and mutters "Bitch" as he departs.

Ty believes that Jack will be upset over the missing ticket and may decide not to sell the house to them. Molly and Dev are not sure he will not but Ty is an inveterate worrier - and anyway the missing ticket makes Paul look good. Molly takes Ty off to lunch as Amber arrives and Dev (who never hears any gossip) brings her up to date on the status of children in Rovers, a gossip in the corner shop - the ideal place! Well done Dev the nation is proud of you. Ty continues to fret in the Rovers - there is no proof that he gave the slip to Vera and that people will think he cashed it in himself. Then Paul will say to Jack that he should not sell the house to a person who could do that. Ty worries far too much for his own good. He would be dangerous if had half a brain.

Nick and Wendy come into the Rovers and through to the back room. They want to know why Alex had run away - he must be tired - but he denies it. Nick says he will have a police record for the rest of his life (I do not remember anyone saying he had a formal police caution, but I believe that unlike convictions these do not become spent at any time). Wendy is adult and thanks Michelle for looking after him. They send Alex into the bar.

Marcus is tired but before he departs for bed Sean asks him if there is anything important for a home birth. Marcus says it needs to be spotless from top to bottom - and Sean's brain goes into overdrive.

In the back room the four adults discuss Alex, who wants to stay with Michelle. Wendy cannot agree to that. Steve wants to know when he asked. Nick says he is sixteen and can make up his own mind (and seems to be glad to see the back of him). Wendy says that she thought they had agreed not to be played off against each other? Michelle agrees - but points out that this is Alex's request not hers. Michelle also says he can stay until he is happier. Nick has no objections. Michelle appeals to Steve who suggests they ask the lad himself (Steve does not really want another addition to the family). Wendy agrees.

Ty and Molly have convinced each other that the house purchase is off when Paul arrives - apparently Jack needs to see them urgently and he does not know why - he is off to work and will see them later. Ty looks at Molly amd they are both depressed at the loss of the house. They return home and Jack is reading the paper. Jack asks if they still want to buy - only if he wants to sell. Well Jack says I have done everything, signed the lot and yet my solicitor reckons you two are dragging your feet - is there a problem? Ty gasps - but before he can say anything Jack jumps in - you thought with Vera gone I would not want to be bothered and for a while he didn't. But now he wants it all done and dusted. The young couple agree to get onto it the next day and Jack says that they can have another look for that betting slip tomorrow as well.

Wendy catches Michelle at the back of the bar before she gets Alex. She knows that what is being said is true and she does not want to hear it. She asks Michelle how long he can stay and she answers a couple of days.

In the Street Amber runs into Ryan and wants to know if it is true about him being swapped as a baby. He cannot think how she knows about it and says it is a joke to everyone else. She tries to sympathise, but Ryan is clearly not in the right mood (and anyway really his name is Alex, not Ryan).

Outside the Rovers Wendy and Nick are arguing - she is refusing a lift because he has effectively given their son away (and not got another one in return). They see Ryan approaching and Nick tries to start a conversation but Ryan gives him an unpleasant look and then walks into the Rovers. Reaching the back room he finds Alex sitting there and wants to know why. Michelle has not thought this through and a little off handedly simply says he will be staying there. Ryan responds that if she has arranged a swap then she can forget it and like a good teenager stomps upstairs. Michelle calls after him but she is ignored. Steve follows her out into the hall but even he has finally lost patience - just what can she tell Ryan to explain the situation - it now appears that Alex (sorry Ryan) is her son and Ryan (sorry Alex) isn't any more, simply by letting Alex (sorry Ryan) stay.

OK Any bets this story is still running next week - after all Alex is only staying a night or two ...

Cheers one and all.

K Richard W

It's Monday morning and things are springing to life in the pub living quarters. Michelle naively seems to think that Ryan and Alex are getting on ok (if not speaking to each other means getting on, I suppose). Alex comes in and she fawns all over her "babe" while Ryan glowers from across the table. Vernon's had all the bacon and eggs and Ryan's had the last of the bread. Well, there's lots of cereal but you can see that it's called Honey Nut something and apparently Alex has a nut allergy so it won't do. (With Vernon over there in the back of the room, there's an obvious joke here but I'll refrain). Michelle offers to go to the corner shop but Alex doesn't want to be a nuisance. Erm. Yes.

The factory bees are swarming across the road, hoping Carla and Tony have made it up so that she's not in a bad mood. Kelly has delusions of knicker party retail grandeur as Carla drives up. Janice's dig at Rosie as Carla's "mini-me" gains her a snarl in return from the boss lady. So that's a "no" on the good mood then.

In the shop, Molly helps Michelle find a cereal that hasn't got any nut traces (bran flakes). Dev, acting almost as nosy as Norris, tries to get more information out of her about the lad she referred to as her son, oh sorry, her....Alex, but she's saying no more. Back at the pub, Steve is making small talk about GCSEs with the boys. Seems they're both taking ten exams. Michelle arrives back with the cereal but Alex has to get on to school. She demands that Steve give him money to get some food at school but denies the same to Ryan because he's eaten. And because Alex remarks that he usually gets a ride to Oakhill, Michelle offers Steve's services to both boys. Vernon hops in and is relieved that everyone is there because it means nobody is in the loo. (Well, if he'd been paying attention, they'd all been there in the living quarters around the table since Vernon was there earlier!) He's instructed to use the gents' in the pub because now Michelle has to get Amy sorted in the upstairs facilities.

In the factory, Sean offers Carla a sympathetic ear and Carla thinks he's sucking up for paternity leave. He wasn't but it's not a bad idea! Carla picks up Liam's coffee mug and sighs. I know it's Liam's because it has LIAM in large letters on it!

In the Kabin, Vi tells Rita and Lloyd that she's got four weeks left to go and can't wait to see the baby! Rita and Lloyd tease her about sleepless nights and extra parents to give a hand which makes her and Jamie both a bit sour at the thought of the third wheel on the impending parenthood pram.

Jack is still turning Number 9 inside out looking for the betting slip. Molly nips home to tell Jack that the contracts and mortgage on the house are ready for her and Ty to sign but assures Jack he's got a home for as long as he wants. He sighs. All the money he's ever had and nobody to spend it on. (huh? did they buy the house for more than £59,631 which is what Jack won on the running bets that time?) Anyway, Molly jokes that even if Vera had been alive, she's sure he wouldn't have spent it *all* on Vera which makes Jack chuckle in agreement.

Violet is chowing down on sausage in the caff. She's a bit tetchy at Becky's remarks about parenthood with regards to the baby's dad and puts Becky firmly in her place. Becky leans over the counter to Ken and whispers "Slapping a pregnant woman ain't good, is it?" Ken advises her to hold her breath and count to ten. Works when he has to deal with Blanche! At another table, Tina is moaning about a rude over-fifty customer. A passing Ken apologizes for all over-fifties everywhere but Tina bitches at him for eavesdropping on a private conversation. Becky quickly jumps to his defence. It looks like it could be a battle and I think Tina would have met her match in Becky. David knows what Becky is like and placates the situation by soothing Tina's ruffled feathers. Tina then teases David who admits his brightly coloured tan has come from a sunbed. (I *was* wondering if they'd make a mention of that in the script. He's getting to look like he's overdosing on sweet potatoes and carrots!) He tells her she'll get an opportunity to see if he's got tan lines (ew. Anyone got any mental floss?) She reveals that her mom and step-dad have taken off on a last minute holiday but she doesn't want to stay in the house by herself because then she'd have to cook and clean! David offers her the Platt hotel and she looks intrigued.

Tony arrives at the factory. He's all smiley and nice but pretends to be business-like. He's brought a cheque and asks for a sample of some fabric. Then he sends Rosie off to make him tea and digs into Carla's handbag for something. In the lunchroom of the factory, Kelly is still banging on about her rosy future. All she has to do is imagine it and it will happen somehow. She might even meet a rich man! Janice scoffs at the idea of finding a millionaire at a knicker party. In what has to be the Line of the Day, Sean quips "He can wear what he wants if he's that rich!" (*snork*) Sally figures if Kelly imagines herself in a new life while she's supposed to be sewing, Carla will make that come true quick enough by heaving her out the door. (You all know that Kelly's ambitions are bound to blow up in her face, don't you?) Back in the office, Tony rejects the fresh cup of tea offered and makes his escape with whatever it was he took from Carla's bag.

Molly snarks at young Dan the Bookie outside the shop for not paying Jack's money and later she does the same across the bar in the Rovers, much to Jack's embarrassment.

Tony lets himself into Carla's flat (ah, it was her keys he's taken!) and listens to a message that is coming in just as he arrived. (I'm surprised she doesn't have voice mail). Meanwhile Carla is in the pub having a glass of wine. She tells Michelle that Tony was a rebound from Paul and that she and Liam were likely rebounds for each other as well after Paul died. Michelle is non-committal and you can tell Carla is really just trying to convince herself. Over the other side of the bar, Vernon, Ken, Rita andLloyd are speculating and gossiping about Alex with Vernon reckoning on the lad just trying to get attention but Ken recognizing that the boy has had a lot of upheaval in his life. Michelle sees Carla off with a mutual kiss on the cheek (Oh, so they're all bezzy mates now, are they? There's a switch) and then she realizes that she's the subject of conversation. When Rita offers any help, Michelle quietly and politely says the lads would be helped best if people didn't talk about them. That's them told.

Violet has had a relaxing bath but the door buzzer goes off. It's Sean with a surprise. He arrives with a man in tow. A professional cleaner to turn the flat into a surgically spotless abode for the home birth. Violet is very clearly not happy. Down in the cab office, Steve is in the middle of telling Lloyd and Jamie how he feels caught in the middle when Vi arrives with a full head of steam fueled by too many hormones and too much Sean. She thinks that maybe Jamie must have made a remark that makes it look like she's incapable of keeping a flat clean. She rants about Sean casting aspersions while Steve and Lloyd add their unwanted opinions, wisecracking and joking. Jamie is at his wits end trying to keep her from doing violence against Lloyd. She's in no fit state for their messing about and the only thing for it is ice cream. A whole tub. She glares daggers at the Chuckle Brothers, daring them to comment and they wisely say no more. She marches Jamie off to Freshcos.

In the pub, Molly tells Jack that she still can't find the slip and later, Steve brings in a bag of Alex's belongings, collected from his father.

Carla arrives home (so obviously, her house keys are on a separate ring because otherwise she'd have noticed them missing or if he'd taken the whole key ring, she'd not have been able to drive her car). She strides into the front of the building. Up at the flat, she realizes the front door is open. She pushes it slightly and we can hear water running somewhere in the flat. She freezes. We know it's Tony but she doesn't. Stay tuned for part 2 to see if she re-enacts the Psycho scene and stabs Tony in the shower!

Tvor

Carla pushes open her front door. "Hello!?" she shouts, uncertainly. There's no answer. She turns and leaves. Has she gone to call the police like normal, sane people would? Has she 'eckerslike!

Paul and Molly are in Molly's soon-to-be front room talking about the betting slip. Paul jokes that as soon as they stop looking for it, it'll turn up. They try stopping looking. Surprisingly, it doesn't turn up miraculously. Paul asks Molly if she and Tyrone have had any thoughts about the house,referring to whether or not he'll be allowed to stay on once she and Tyrone have bought it. Molly, visibly uncomfortable, extricates herself from the conversation, leaving Paul in the front room.

Carla is rooting around in her car boot where she grabs that thing you unscrew the nuts with when you're changing the tyre. And then she runs back in the flat, still not having called the cops.

Ryan sticks his head round the living room door at the Rovers to see what Alex and Michelle are up to. Alex is watching telly. He offers to have a look for something they can watch together. Ryan's not interested though and goes back upstairs. Michelle calls after all him, all exasperated, like. She tries to explain to Alex that Ryan's not grumpy because of him but Alex knows better.

Carla sneaks back through her open front door, metal pipe-thing in hand. Uh-oh! Beethoven's 5th symphony is playing ominously in the background and there's a knife on the bench. Just at the very same time a timer beeps in the kitchen, Tony opens a (bathroom?) door. Carla panics and throws the metal pipe-thing at him which sadly, misses its target by a mile and instead hits a lamp in the corner. "I'm glad that wasn't me!" says Tony.

Outside the Rovers, Lauren asks Violet excitedly, "How was the clean?" Sour-puss Violet growls at her and Lauren takes Violet to task about her attitude to Sean trying to contribute to the baby's arrival. Lauren stomps off as Violet shouts after her, "Don't talk to me like that, Lauren!" A workman happens to come out of the pub just as Violet shouts after her sister. He remarks to Jamie how Violet will be in an even worse mood when "she's dropped". He mistakes Jamie for the father of the baby and wishes them luck, all the while, Violet is pulling faces, being a right moody cow.

In Kevin's garage, Kevin and Tyrone are chatting, when Molly comes in to talk to Tyrone about Paul. Tyrone tells Molly they'll sort it out later in the Rovers. Molly leaves and Kevin and Tyrone go back to gossiping- about Claire and some secrets Ashley has told Kevin about her! Molly comes back in and asks Tyrone, "Do you think Jack's going to mind?" Tyrone snaps at her, "Molly, I'm trying to fit an air filter 'ere!" and as Molly is dismissed, Kevin and Tyrone go back to their gossiping.

Back at Carla's, Tony has swept up the broken bits of lamp, trying to excuse his behaviour as him being romantic. When Carla, who still hasn't called the police, reminds him that she'd finished with him he argues he didn't break in because he used her keys. That he stole. From her handbag. Carla asks him if he's a thief as well now. Tony asks her if she would call the Milk Tray man a thief, still desperately trying to talk her around into thinking that his creepy, stalkery behaviour is normal. He goes to check on dinner (hence the knife on the bench) and Carla notices he's wearing Paul's dressing gown. When he remarks that Paul's not going to need it any more, she gets a bit narked but Tony tries to tell her he was having a joke. He goes on to tell Carla that he thought breaking and entering into her flat would make her smile and that she would have a glass of wine and they'd have a good night. "Ugh!" Carla's had enough, "Allow me to introduce myself, I'm Carla Connor. We are no longer a couple!" She shouts to make her point. But Tony merely tells her he was giving her a second chance. Carla tells him to get dressed and get out but Tony tells her, in a creepy, stalkery fashion that he's going to make it as difficult as possible for her to get him out. She still hasn't called the police.

At Gail's, Gail struggles into the house with arms loaded down with full Freshcos bags while Tina and David are sitting on the lounge laughing at the tv. They make no attempt to help her. In yet another excellent show of letting David walk all over her, Gail listens to Tina and David tell her that they have plans to watch a dvd in the lounge room tonight and she's welcome to go upstairs to watch whatever she had planned for the evening without complaint.

In the garage, Kevin is talking Tyrone into not letting Paul stay at their place. Kevin uses a spot of reverse psychology on Tyrone to help him make up his mind.

At Carla's, Tony is dressed and ready to go. Just as he's leaving, Carla calls him back to find out what the whole incident was about. Tony tells her he spends all day thinking about her; pure unadulterated lusty thoughts. They chat for a while, about the seven deadly sins and then the seven dwarfs (Janice, Sally, Fizz.....) and eventually the ten commandments. Apparently that's sexy to Carla as she inexplicably starts snogging her creepy stalker, Tony.

In Violet and Jamie's flat, Jamie and Violet (who else?) are talking about how good it felt when the builder outside the pub assumed that Jamie was the father of Violet's baby. Jamie asks Violet, if there was one thing he could change in the history of the universe, does she know what it would be? Violet says she does know but I'm confused. Would it be that he is the father of the baby or would be that he hadn't had an affair with his step-mother when he was getting Violet pregnant the first time? Hmmmm.... Anyway, Jamie suggests that they move away from Weatherfield where nobody knows them and where he will always be assumed the father of Violet's baby. Violet puts up a bit of a weak argument but Jamie keeps her thinking about it.

In the Rovers, Jack assures Molly and Tyrone that if they don't want Paul living there, then it's fine by him. Jack just asks them to be straight with him. Tyrone thinks it's best to come from Molly but Molly urges him to be a man and be the one to tell Paul. When Tyrone argues equal opportunities, Violet looks at him incredulously. "Pardon?" she asks.

In Carla's flat, Carla is wearing her dressing gown, a sure sign that she's been undressed at some point since we last saw her. Tony is taking the beef & burgundy out of the oven for them to eat dinner. Carla asks Tony if he's glad that she didn't call the police. Tony tells her he was pretty sure that she wouldn't. Then he goes into some football analogy about their relationship, letting slip that he tried out for Celtic as a boy but he didn't get in the squad because he was too good and it wouldn't have been fair on Rangers.

Now, I'm sorry, I know I've been a little bit down on this episode but really, this next scene displays about the hammiest acting I've seen since I went to one of my boys' school plays. At the Duckie's, Paul is still scouring the house for the betting slip. He strokes the silver framed picture of Jack and Vera and then picks up a book which has a betting slip used as a marker. Ding! He has a light bulb above his head moment and he looks around the room to where Vera had a stash of novels. He picks up two which both seem to have several place markers in them. He riffles through the first one but no joy. He places it down and eagerly opens the next book where- tah dah!- the lost betting slip has been hiding. He holds the betting slip in his hand, waves it about a bit and then plasters a great big grin on his face. No, really, you had to see it to believe how bad it was.

Back at Violet and Jamie's, Jamie is doing his mileage sheets after having rung Sean to thank him for the cleaning present. Violet tells Jamie she's been thinking that if they just move without telling anyone, that Sean wouldn't follow them because he wouldn't know where they were. She has a moment of clarity where she tells Jamie that Sean did help her after all and that she's grateful but it looks like they're going to leave Weatherfield without telling anybody. Hurrah! Perhaps I could pack their bags for them.

At Carla's, Carla and Tony are talking about the seven holy virtues, wondering which ones would apply to Carla. None, it seems. Having a bit of a snuggle, Carla tells Tony that he's not off the hook for having broken in earlier and orders him in the kitchen to do the washing up. Tony tells her he'd rather be doing something (or someone) else. "Again?" asks Carla, "What do you think I am? An amusement park?"

Back at the Duckie's, Jack, Tyrone and Molly come home to where Paul is reading the newspaper. It seems that just as Paul goes to tell them of him finding the lost betting slip, Tyrone and Molly inform him that they don't want him staying there after they've bought the house. Jack defends Tyrone and Molly while Paul sneaks the betting slip into his back pocket. He goes to leave and tells Jack he's going to the pub to celebrate. "Celebrate what?" asks Jack. "It's me birthday!" says Paul and everyone feels bad for having forgotten. Paul pretends not to mind and to be sorry for having behaved appallingly in the past and heads out to have a drink, alone, for his birthday. It looks like the betting slip is lost to Jack for ever.

In Gail's, it seems that Gail has been subjected to the two hours of rubbish that David and Tina were watching because she didn't know to turn the tv upstairs to AV2. Poor Gail. David announces that he's off to bed and asks Tina if she's coming. Tina goes up to bed with him. When Gail protests that Tina should be going home, David tells her that he'll explain what's going on and he'll clean up in t'mornin'.

At Carla's, Tony is finally getting ready to leave. It looks like Tony and Carla are all back on as they make plans for next time, sans metal pipe-things which make Tony nervous. Just before he says goodbye, he winks and tells Carla not to tell Paul about the dressing gown which makes her decidedly uncomfortable.

Gail walks into her kitchen to find Tina making herself a packed lunch – with Gail's ingredients! "It saves money this way," she explains. "See you tonight," she says, as she heads for the door. "You will?" queries Gail. "Back about six normally," says Tina, pausing only to kiss David who appears at the foot of the stairs. When she's gone, Gail asks David what's going on, and he explains that Tina's mum has gone away for a week so she's going to be staying there while she's away. He adds that he didn't think she'd mind, after all Jason used to stay there all the time. Gail just sits at her table and smiles.

Paul takes the betting slip into the bookies, and confesses to Dan that Jack doesn't know he's found it. Dan assumes he's in for a nice surprise, but Paul doesn't answer. Just then Jack himself walks in and puts a bet on, and then goes out. Dan turns to Paul and tells him he's got some explaining to do.

Violet and Jamie are discussing the pros and cons of leaving the area, mainly to get away from Sean. Jamie says they can go next week and although she's surprised, Violet agrees and they start making a list of all the things they have to do, like giving notice on the flat and buying a car in which to make their getaway. Violet's sorry that they're not going to be able to say goodbye to any of their friends, and although Jamie says they can still change their minds, she agree to go.

Liam and Maria arrive home from their honeymoon and are met outside the Rovers by Michelle and Steve. "Have we missed anything?" asks Liam. Michelle and Steve look at each other, and she says she'll fill him in later.

In the betting shop, Paul tells Dan that Jack doesn't need to know about the money from the betting slip. "There's no law says he has to, is there?" asks Paul. Dan agrees that there's not written law. "All you need is the betting slip," says Paul, "so are you going to pay up or what?" Dan says it puts him in an awkward position, so Paul offers him five hundred quid. Dan says he'll keep quiet for a thousand, it still leaves Paul with two thousand that isn't his.

Liam goes back to the factory and says hello to all the workers, and then goes into the office to see Carla. He tells her it's a flying visit, Maria has a scan coming up and he's going with her to the hospital.

Violet goes into the pub and asks Steve if she can start her maternity leave. He says it's no problem, and asks when she wants to leave. She tells him it'll be on Sunday. Lauren asks if she's ok, and Violet assures her that she is.

Carla and Liam are chatting in the office, there's a certain kind of awkwardness between them as they discuss the merits of the restaurants of Venice.

Outside, Jamie is on his phone, explaining to the landlord of their flat that he and Violet are leaving, they're having a baby and need a bigger place. He gets into his car, just as Sean and boyfriend Marcus come along. Sean taps on the window. "Who are you talking to, guilty-face?" he asks. He then asks if Jamie and Violet would like to come out for a meal with them tomorrow.

Over in the betting shop, Dan is counting out the money for Paul, from Jack's winning betting slip. Just then Blanche comes in, and counts out her pennies for a 75p each way bet on a horse, taking her time, reminiscing about the old money, talking about tanners and shillings. Eventually she goes and Paul hurriedly takes the money from Jack's bet, and goes.

After the break, Dan's dad, Harry has returned to the betting shop and, checking the computer, notices that Dan has paid out on the Yankee. "Was it Jack's?" he asks his son. Dan says it was, but hurriedly departs. It isn't long before Jack comes back in with his winning betting slip for a bet he's had earlier, and Harry joking says he'll be putting him out of business soon. Jack, of course, at first assumes he's just referring to that bet, but Harry points out there's the Yankee as well. "Oh, you mean the one that you won't pay out on until I find the slip?" says Jack, "don't rub it in." Harry looks a little puzzled but says nothing more, and just pays up on the slip Jack has just given him.

Over in the salon, Audrey is doing Blanche's hair as Maria talks about her honeymoon. Blanche says that they had three nights in a B&B for her honeymoon, it was all they could afford.

Tina comes in to see David, she's got the afternoon off. Audrey turns round and says he can take the afternoon off as well, he worked hard while Maria was away. After he's gone, Maria comes back from the back room and reminds Audrey that she's got her 20 weeks scan and has to leave in 15 minutes!

Harry asks Dan why Jack Duckworth seems to have no idea that his betting slip was cashed in. Dan explains that Jack's grandson cashed it in. Harry asks if he's going to give him a surprise and Dan says he doesn't know. Harry then says it would make a nice story for the Gazette, it would be good for business too. Then he asks his son to tell him what really happened.

In the pub, Steve is looking at the quotes he's received for the refurbishment of the Rovers, but they're far too expensive. Vernon says he has a couple of mates who would do it – they're perfectionists and would do a good job.

Meanwhile, Harry and Dan are arguing about Jack's winnings. Harry tells him it was a dumb thing to do, they could lose their licence. Dan says Paul wouldn't say anything, but Harry thinks it could come out when he was drunk. Harry tells him that he'll have to go to Jack and tell him they've decided to pay out after all. "What? And give him three grand of our money?" asks Dan. "No," says Harry, "three grand of your money!"

In the back room of the Rovers, Michelle is serving up the tea when Vernon bursts in, about to measure up for the decortators. Steve is surprised, he didn't know they were going to do the back room as well. He then brings out a tape measure, but while he's measuring he gets into an awkward conversation with Alex, which Steve eventually interrups and stops.

Paul shows Jack an expensive watch he's bought himself for his birthday. Just then, there's a knock on the door – it's Dan. Paul looks very worried as he follows Jack into the room, saying he's come about the betting slip. "We're going to give you the benefit of the doubt," he tells him, and explains that they're going to pay up without the slip. Jack is delighted, of course.

Liam goes into the back room of the pub with a souvenir for Ryan. Just then Alex comes into the room and Liam introduces himself. Ryan shows Alex the present Uncle Liam bought him on his honeymoon. "Cool," says Alex, adding that he's his Uncle Liam too, seeing as he's his mother's brother. "Yes, I suppose I am," says Liam, and Alex says it will be good to get to know him.

In the Rovers, Violet and Jamie are making their plans. Jamie says he's seen a car he thought he'd buy, and then he'll load it up with lots of their stuff and take it down to London. His mate rang him and has a couple of places he can look at. Just then Sean comes in and tells them that for their dinner out tomorrow they're going to be eating at Leanne's restaurant. Jamie apologises, but says he has to work. "Change it," says Sean, looking crestfallen, "I've booked the table." Jamie tells him he can't.

As Dan leaves Jack's house, Paul runs after him, asking what's going on. Dan explains that his dad found out what happened, and has made him pay Jack out of his own money. He tells Paul he wants the rest of it back."Not a chance, pal," says Paul, saying that he cashed in a winning betting slip and there's no law against it, and if he wants to pay out twice that's his problem. "We'll see about that," says Dan. "In your dreams," says Paul.

Anne Logan.

It's morning as we can tell by the postie arriving, despite the fact that in the UK these days a morning delivery is by no means guaranteed. Liam and Maria talk about the day ahead and the fact that Maria has to change everything into her married name. Liam suggests they should get a joint account set up. As they kiss on their doorstep, Ryan, coming out of the pub with Steve, calls out to them to get a room. As they walk towards the bus stop, Steve tells Ryan he knows it's a strange situation but says Michelle is just trying to help a kid in trouble. But Alex's mother is coming to pick him up. By the time Ryan gets home, "Alex will be gone and everything will be back to normal."

Violet and Jamie are having a ruthless clear-out, arguing over which film DVDs to keep. Violet makes a phone call about setting up a new midwife once they get to London. She grimaces as the baby "is having a right go this morning." They agree Jamie will take some of their stuff down to London so that by next week they can be out of there.

Jack and Molly chat and Jack says it's time he cleared out some of Vera's stuff. Molly thinks it's too soon. Jack says that Vera never threw anything away in 50 years and it would be nice to see what colour the bedroom walls are again. Molly has the day off and offers to help.

Gail comes downstairs to loud music as Tina watches television and David cooks a really big breakfast. Gail finds out they're not planning to go out tonight because they're skint, so she hands David 20 quid. He points out that they were thinking of inviting a few mates around. "If we can't get into the pubs then what are we supposed to do?" he asks. "I don't know! Cinema? Bowling?" Gail is backed into the corner and agrees to go to the pub for the evening. But she doesn't get her money back. David says it would be rude to invite folk round and not be able to offer them a can of lager.

Violet is putting bin bags outside the door and Eileen stops to talk to her. She hasn't seen much of Violet this week and wonders if it's because Violet's avoiding Sean and his baby talk, but Violet denies it. That surprises Eileen, who says Sean is so excited he's about to explode. He's turned an old Advent calendar into a baby countdown calendar! Emily comes over and persuades Violet to donate her old clothing to the charity shop. They're sending monthly bundles to Hayley for her village. "Well, as long as the people of Mozambique don't mind wearing old Take That tee-shirts and fluffy mules, they're welcome to them," Violet says. Emily gets Eileen to help her carry the bags over. But not before Violet gives her a big hug. She claims it must be her hormones making her all emotional.

Liam's at work and obviously on the phone to Maria when Tony walks in. He hastily hangs up. He says he'll deal with Tony, but Carla kisses Tony and takes him off to check on the progress of his order. Liam looks very puzzled.

In the street, Jamie shows Violet his new car. A bright orange car painted with flames. Violet's upset, because she wanted them to make an inconspicuous exit. Jamie persuades her it's fun and they get in. Violet says she feels bad about sneaking off. Lauren comes out and sees them. "Wait till Sean sees it!" she says. Violet tells Jamie she still wants to leave. If they stay round the Street, the baby will always be Sean's baby. "I want you to be there when he's born and I want you to be the first one to hold him," she tells him. "If we get away from here we can be a proper family, just the three of us."

Molly didn't realise Vera had so many pairs of shoes. Scarily, they've lined up the shoes on the table, which as Vera would have realised, is dreadfully bad luck! (Or was that just something my mother said because the hygiene argument didn't work?) Molly says she only ever saw Vera in one pair. Jack says they were Vera's day-to-day shoes, "know to Vera as ‘me shoes'." The next pair were "me other shoes", then "me good shoes" and finally "me best shoes". It seems a bit daft, but Jack knew exactly which pair of shoes she meant. Emily, clearly with a charity shop directional instinct the strength of an Indian vulture going after a dead ox, looks at the clear-out. "A lot of memories," she says. "And a lot of moths," says Jack. For someone who lived in the same three cardies, you'd never guess Vera had all this squirreled away, he says. He offers it to Emily for the charity shop. Jack hugs an item of clothing to his face and says "I can smell her." Molly wells up.

Tony has approved the new stock and Liam asks them about getting back together. Carla suggests they move in some of Tony's stuff now, so Tony can take her for a fabulously expensive lunch at the same time. "I'll see you when I see you," she tells Liam, who looks very pensive.

Paul's heading home and as he passes the bookies, Dan comes out and asks if he's been shopping. He wants his money back. He threatens to tell Jack. Paul threatens to tell the betting authorities. "I don't scare easily," he says. "We'll see about that," growls Dan. "Take care."

In the pub, Liam tells Maria about Tony and Carla being back together. Steve tells Liam that Alex goes back home today. Violet comes in and Sean and Marcus discuss the car with her. Sean thinks it's a good idea so she won't have to struggle on the bus. She asks Steve about getting her wages. He goes to sort it out.

Dev wants Amber to guess how many calories there are in a pastie. David and Darryl come in looking for beer. But Amber's too young to serve them, so Dev goes to get some. Amber angles for an invitation to the party. Dev tries to dissuade her so, of course, they do. She assures Dev she won't drink.

In the pub, Gail's complaining to Jerry about the space David and Tina take up. "I feel like a stranger in me own house." "Want to buy a shed?" he asks. He assures her that David is just being a rude, selfish obnoxious typical teenager. Gail says he doesn't know what a relief that is. Sean's on the phone to Eileen. He tells Violet that Eileen says Emily was thrilled with the stuff for the charity shop. They ask if she was having a clear-out and Violet says it was what Sean said about keeping the flat clean. "I just didn't realise how much junk we had up there." "Oooh, she's nesting," Marcus says. Violet goes through to see Liz. Vernon comes bustling in with wallpaper and paint. The decorators are doing "the refurb" tonight. "Oh, look, Steve! My favourite colour – mud!" gushes Sean. It's burnished conker, Vernon says. "These better not be your mates!" Steve says menacingly, but Vernon's already gone to fetch in the rest of it.

In the pub yard, Violet calls Jamie to let him know that Sean knows about the car and the clear-out. Jamie, busy loading up the car, says Violet should relax. She wonders if they should do a moonlight flit. Jamie agrees that he'll get this lot down to London and see what time he gets back. "Thank you," says Violet. She ends the call and the phone falls to the ground as she doubles over in pain.

Out in the street, Dev waylays Gail. He wants to know what's going on at her place tonight. He says he doesn't want Amber drinking or anything else. "Well, I rather think that's up to Amber, don't you?" Gail asks.

Violet goes in the back door of the pub, doubled over again. Liz, coming down the stairs, is concerned. "I think the baby's coming," she says. "My God!" Liz says. "Let's get you in the back." But Violet is determined to get to Jamie. She makes it as far as the bar (of course) where another contraction doubles her over. Marcus realises immediately what's happening and rushes to her aid. Liz says they need an ambulance and Eileen starts to call. They take Violet to one of the booths and Liz tells Vernon to get rid of the customers. He tells everyone to leave just as Jack comes in. He says Jack will have to go. Jack's about to protest, but then Violet cries out with another contraction. "I'll try the Wethy Arms," says Jack, doing a very quick about face. Vernon is worried. "She's not having it in here, is she?" he demands. "Thank god we're redecorating," she mutters. Violet sends Sean to find Jamie. He sees Jamie driving off, music blaring, and races after him, but Jamie keeps going. Sean rushes back and tells Violet he couldn't stop him. Vernon decides to rush off for towels and hot water, even though Violet says he's been watching too many films. "Hang on, Vi," calls Lauren. "This baby isn't hanging on for anybody," says Marcus, from between Violet's thighs. "You're doing great. Keep going. I'm here for you, Sean's here!" gabbles Sean, rushing round to support her shoulders. Violet looks as if that's more painful than the contractions!

The End, for now.
Tune in later for the second part.

Margaret Carr

Written by Chris Fewtrell and directed by Terry Dyddgen Jones.

I have trouble with the opening scene. Violet is giving birth in the middle of the Rovers supported by Sean, Marcus pretending to be a midwife and Liz, Lauren and Vernon watching from behind the bar. Vernon suggest using the back room, whilst Marcus demands towels and pillows (no hot water). Vi asks for a vodka but is given no relief. My trouble is that Vi still has all her clothes on.

Outside in the Street Dan takes note of Kelly's legs, whistles and then offers to take her out. Kelly explains that the Rovers is closed due to environmental health not being keen on serving beer whilst babies are being delivered. He even reckons he is on to such a certain winner that he includes breakfast in his offer. She accepts.

Michelle and Alex are eating a meal, Alex believes that Wendy does not want him living with her. When Wendy finally arrives she complains about the traffic and tells Alex (who should really be Ryan) that she has missed him. She gets out Alex's medicine for his allergies, as the previous one was out of date. Alex disappears to the gents and Wendy and Michelle discuss the situation. Michelle says she is proud of her son and Wendy asks Michelle if she has seen him lose his temper yet. Apparently not. Wendy believes he is a teenager punishing his mother and that Michelle has given him an easy escape.

Violet still seems to be fully clothed and asking for Jamie. However the baby is not going to wait and Violet is soon pushing and Sean reassures her they are nearly there - Vi points out that she is doing the hard work and with a huge effort a crying baby arrives which Sean is relishing seeing born. He looked straight at Sean. Finally an ambulance arrives and takes mother, baby and father Sean off to the hospital. Liz and Eileen get competitive over the length of labour they endured. Sean kisses Marcus before departing. Lauren says not many fathers celebrate like that. Vernon emerges from the cellar with a bottle of bubbly to wet the baby's head.

Harry arrives at the bookies and complains to Dan about the furniture in he flat - the glass table has bruised his leg for the fifth time. Dan says he is trying to create a look - style. But Dan is dismissive. Harry complains that the sofa is not comfortable. Dan is bringing Kelly back tonight and he wants Harry out of the way. Harry is going to see faceache anyway, but he does not know why.

Back at the restaurant, Alex refuses to go home with his mother. Alex insists on going "home" with Michelle but as the latter points out it is not that simple and it cannot be long term - it is not fair on Steve, Liz, Vernon or Ryan. He pleads to stay on a few days.

At the hospital Sean holds the baby but the nurse confirms that everything seems fine. At long last Jamie arrives and he looks at Sean rocking the baby. He was down the motorway until he picked up the messages. She tells him not to beat himself up. Sean refuses thanks - he did what on any father would have done.

Michelle and Alex return to the Rovers. Alex wishes he had met his father. Michelle takes the opportunity to recall him - and she still misses him, she has a video somewhere she cannot watch, but will let him watch it. A little later they are watching the video and Michelle is filling in the gaps of who was who. Steve arrives and is surprised to see Alex. She announces a change of plan and she says it was agreed that he could stay the weekend. Steve is not worried but he knows others will be.

At the Platts' Tina is mixing crisps (prawn cocktail and cheese and onion) - much to Amber's displeasure who only likes one type, Tina claims it is the crisp equivalent of russian roulette. Not a particularly exciting party. Gail returns at about 9:45 pm and the party comes to an early end.

At the restaurant Jack is running down Italian beer, which despite not being to his liking he has a fourth. Dan arrives Kelly, he is describing his great looking flat she can see later, and then says she can order what she likes - money no object. Paul watches with concern.

Jamie and Sean leave the ward and Jamie has trouble explaining why he took so long to appear. He proffers a very lame excuse which Sean for one does not believe. Jamie thanks Marcus for all he had done.

Kelly and Dan have consumed a fair bit of alcohol as well as a full three courses each. Leanne is about to provide the bill when Dan says that she should refer it to her chef who will be paying. Apparently they got through £200 of food and drink - she wants to call the police and when Paul "explains" she wants the money in the till by the end of the week.

They arrive back at the flat which is absolutely full of furniture and Kelly wants to know why it is not minimalist. Dan went to the house - and all his stuff was on a van and he had to take it then. Dan is here for the foreseeable. Kelly kisses Dan and departs, so that Harry can explain.

At the Rovers Ryan is angry at Alex's continued presence and for Michelle's sake he agrees - but only until the end of the weekend.

And in the hospital Jamie is cuddling Sean's son and talking to Vi - years ahead when Jamie will be the father. They discuss departing south - but Vi points out that Sean is a good man and deserves a say. But Jamie talks her out of it - they have to leave or Sean will ruin everything and she knows he is right. Vi does not think she can take the baby away from Sean.

OK. Monday will be along soon.

K Richard W

It's quite a mixed bag today, jumping all over the map so let's get straight to it, shall we? Beginning on the street, Jamie's just come out of the corner shop. Amber comes out after him as he's forgotten the package of nappies. Dev walks up and is enthusiastic about a fellow "new" dad, reckons he knows all about it (aside from the fact that Sunita wouldn't let him near the twins once they were born aside from a few times she was utterly exhausted) Dev mentions Sean and Jamie pretty much just stops the conversation and says he has to get off. Behind them, Liam encounters Ryan outside the Kabin while Norris is adjusting the news sign and earwigging for all he's worth. Ryan tells Liam that Alex is apparently sick and stamping his feet so as not to be made to leave after all and Michelle has allowed him a few more days. Liam tells Ryan he's always welcome at his if he needs a bit of peace. "Peace... what's that?" Ryan asks, sounding well and truly fed up and pushed out.

Tony's been busy making Carla some breakfast which looks like either a couple of sticky buns or pigs in a blanket and he manages to persuade her to sit and eat. They agree there will be no shop talk between them, separating business from pleasure and she seems to think she can manage that. He's all loved up and gooey. Her reaction? "You're so cute. I could hurl".

The pub is shut and the decorating is underway. Michelle is handing out ubiquitous cups of tea to the painters whose noses turn up immediately at the discovery that the tea contains skim milk. (You just can't get unfussy workers these days!) Ryan slopes in to the back room and takes the wee out of Alex and his mother's nursing skills. Or lack thereof. Alex is lapping up her attentions faster than he's chugging the orange juice and tablets she's giving him.

At the hospital, Violet is gazing at her baby. Lauren breezes in with flowers from Jamie and a balloon and a bear from her. Lauren admires the adorable sleeping baby that emerged out of the blood and gore! No offence, Vi. None taken. Meanwhile, Sean catches up with Jamie to cadge a lift to the hospital in that bright orange car with the naff rear spoiler that Jamie is driving now. He's managed to snag some paternity leave from the factory. Jamie allows him to come along. (Well, what else could he do, really?) Gail comes out of the Kabin and says "Congratulations, daddy!" to which both men turn and say thank you! Oops! Jamie insists the baby looks like Violet and Sean excitedly shows off his "Who's the Daddy" tshirt that Marcus gave him. You know, it's so sweet seeing how excited Sean is and so sad because you just know how it's going to end. Jamie just goes around looking like someone peed in his cornflakes every time Sean is around. I think he's got a serious case of the green eyed monster because he wasn't the one that got to be the baby's biological father.

Down the street, outside the salon, Gail encounters David who tries to interest her into taking Audrey to a film so he can have the house to himself. She discovers that David plans to cook for Tina so she's even more keen to stay home and see this phenomenon. Foiled again!

Steve checks on Alex who is dressed and playing one of Ryan's video games. Steve wants to take Michelle for a pizza and wants Alex to keep an eye on Amy (oh yes, very good judgement as usual, Steve, with builders and ladders and paint all around the place and leaving a four year old with someone she barely knows. It's the middle of the day! Take Amy with you!) Alex agrees, however.

In the cafe, Dev is waiting for Becky to get back from somewhere with some change while Audrey and Gail discuss David's culinary ambitions with amusement. Audrey asks Dev to splash some hot water into the tin teapot (where's Ken?) and he actually does though he whines a bit. How long does it take someone to fetch some change anyway, he wonders. Well if it's Becky, it depends on if she's chatting up a builder or kicking a dog, Gail laughs. Audrey thinks Gail should go out anyway and leave David and Tina to it.

Amy is sat at the table with some toys and is right in Alex's line of vision for the telly. He wants her to shift her stuff and she wants him to help but he won't. She gives him a very Tracy-like look as if to say "You plonker!" (Or is that me projecting?)

Back to the hospital, the two dad's arrive. Vi shushes them, having just got the baby to sleep but a view into the cot clearly shows he's awake, though quiet. (He really is cute!) Jamie and Violet reveal that they've picked the baby's name, Dylan James. Sean tries it out a few times and then announces, Dylan Wilson Tully!" Yep, he likes. Whoah! Big meaningful looks passing between Jamie and Vi who still say nothing while Sean and Lauren witter. Sean walks Lauren out, clearly intending on exercising his paternal rights to stay past public visiting hours. While he's away, Jamie starts in on trying to persuade Violet again that they should leave Weatherfield but she still has doubts because both Lauren and Sean have already bonded with the baby.

In the back of the pub, Alex shuffles Amy outside into the yard to play. She's got no coat on and it's February and there's bottles and cartons everywhere. Oh, yes, that's very safe. She watches the plonker go back inside and decides to go exploring since the back gate is open. Down the ginnel she goes but hides from Amber who is struggling with the wheely bin and listening to her iPod and so doesn't see the little girl. Back at the pub, Alex is still gaming and shoving crisps in his mouth. Doesn't look very ill to me.

And we're back to the maternity ward where Jamie is having a proper hold of the baby and whining about Sean monopolizing all the nurses and midwives, asking questions that *he* should be asking. Well why doesn't he, Violet asks, clearly getting impatient. She thinks they just have to make sure everyone (Sean) knows the rules but Jamie keeps on whinging and putting the pressure on her until she snaps at him and says if she and the baby are too much trouble, they can forget it all! Squabble... squabble... squabble. *sigh*

On Coronation Street, Gail and Audrey head back to the Salon. Gail's still resisting getting shut out of her own home. She knows she'll have to accept Tina because she let Jason move in with Sarah when she was that age. (But Sarah didn't insist Gail vacate the premises every night like David seems to be doing). David arrives back from Freshcos with carry bags of food. Gail thinks her son has been taken over by aliens but Audrey advises her to enjoy it while it lasts.

Oh look, we're now in the kebab shop. Lloyd is trying to get served but Odious Darrell is on the phone to Lauren. Mel arrives, dressed in her uniform. She jokes with Lloyd and merrily teases her brother about Lauren. Later on, Lauren arrives at the kebab shop and shows a phone pic of the baby to Dar. Mel is snarky to her especially when she finds out that Laurel can't go out with Darrell because she's skint. Oh, surprise, surprise! Darrell of course, does as he's trained to do and offers to pay for her. Laurel grins brightly and immediately texts her friend to join them. Darrell is not amused. Even less so when he finds out that Laurel's friend is one of the Ibiza Trannies who are in Manchester for a few days. Mel *is* amused. Cozy!

I think we've seen the inside of nearly every business on the Street, and the outside of the rest today! Over at the factory, Tony is discussing contract business with Liam. He and Carla are completely ignoring each other. When Tony leaves, Liam asks Carla why. She explains to Liam her and Tony's new regime to keep business and pleasure completely separate. Liam's the boardroom and she's for the bedroom as far as Tony is concerned. Liam is surprised she agreed to it *and* let Tony keep his teeth. So am I!

The decorators have finished their work and Vernon is treating them to a pint in the bar. Steve arrives back and admonishes Vernon who wants to open to the public right then. Steve objects because the paint is still wet but actually likes the end result which doesn't look a whole lot different to me. The fabric on the booth seats and backs is lighter and the walls are a bit lighter too but otherwise, there's not a lot of change. I guess that's good though I can't say I'm that keen on the light fabric of the booths. I do hope they changed the fabric on the banquette upon which young Dylan was born, though!

Steve goes into the back and sees Alex dozing on the sofa and Amy nowhere to be seen. He wakes Alex who says she is out back playing. Steve goes out and realizes Amy isn't there and the gate is open. He freaks out and runs down the ginnel hollering for her.

Back to the wards again, and Jamie and Vi have hugged and made up. Sean arrives back to say that the midwife told him Vi could probably be released that night if the doctor gives the all clear. Of course this is news to Violet and while Sean witters on about baby minding rotas, her face is like thunder. Jamie steers Sean out saying they'll sort out visiting on an as-needed basis and they'll call him. He returns to Violet and the pair of them whinge some more about SEan taking over. In spite of that, she still thinks it's cruel to just snatch the baby away from him so Jamie pulls out the big Guilt Guns. He says he can foresee a time when Dylan will have to choose between Sean and them (Why, for heavens sake? Lots of kids share multiple parents. Spoiled, jealous prat, I say) Violet is torn but doesn't want to lose Jamie, thus having the required reaction he was looking for. He fires the final round, reckoning that as hard as it would be to leave now, Sean will be completely destroyed if they left later on and she finally gives in and agrees to go.

Vernon sees his mates off with loud matey type noises when Michelle comes screaming for Amy around the corner of the pub, Steve running up from the other direction. Just then, though, they spot Norris kindly leading the little girl back across the street, scolding Steve because he'd found her wandering around on her own. Steve is relieved but now on the warpath. He gives Vernon the little girl and charges into the pub, shouting the odds at Alex when he finds him. Michelle immediately gets between them and defends Alex who petulantly storms into the pub and flips the locks on both sets of doors. Michelle has clearly taken Alex's side against Steve's entirely justifiable anger. Alex is alone in the pub. Now what? Stay tuned. We'll find out in 30 minutes!

Tvor

Michelle listens through the door from the back of the Rovers to the bar as Steve brings Amy back inside, followed by Vernon. Michelle knocks and pleads with Alex to open the door. Steve shouts at Alex to open the door and gets angry, quite rightly. Vernon settles Amy down with Dora the Explorer in the living room as the adults try to get Alex to open the flippin' door.

At Underworld, Liam sees Carla perusing one of the contracts he negotiated with Tony and tells her he knew she wouldn't be able to keep her beak out of it. He asks her who she doesn't trust, him or her boyfriend? They talk a little about the contract and Liam promises not to tell "Big Tony" that she's been checking up on him. Carla tells him to tell Tony what he likes and then makes a dig at Maria.

At the Rovers, Steve is banging on the outside door trying to get Alex to open up but Alex just sits inside looking terrified. Vernon has a try to get him out using the "count to three" technique. Surprisingly, or not, the counting to three doesn't work and Steve goes back to banging and shouting. Dev and Norris gather to watch as Vernon threatens to smash a window. With Michelle at the inside door pleading and Steve threatening from the outside door that if he doesn't open up now it'll just make things ten times worse, Alex sits wondering what he should do.

At the hospital, Jamie is cuddling baby Dylan while Violet gets ready to go home. Violet tells Jamie she needs to cancel the midwife and Jamie reminds her to do it soon. Sean joins them. Sean asks Jamie to take a picture of him holding Dylan with his camera phone.

Meanwhile back at the ranch, I mean the Rovers, Michelle is still trying to coax Alex to open the door. She asks him to come to the other side of the door so they can talk. Alex manipulates her by saying, "You hate me, don't you?.... Well, your boyfriend does!" Michelle tells him Steve is just angry because Amy is only a baby (a four year old who they carry everywhere!). Steve comes in to hear what Michelle is saying and threatens to call the police to which Michelle cries, "No way!" She pleads again with Alex while Steve says he's going to call Nick & Wendy; apparently the last resort. Michelle asks Steve to please let her have another go.

In Roy's Cafe, Norris is bringing Becky up to speed on the goings on at the Rovers.Becky is incredulous. She's thankful to Norris for filling her in on the gossip and gives him a free cup of tea for being a lifesaver, him having prevented Amy from running under a bus or any other disaster that may have happened to her. While Norris says the idea of being the hero of the hour doesn't sit well on his rather English shoulders, he drinks his tea before he goes off to tell Emily what happened. Becky refreshes Lauren's tea and notices she's looking at ads for flats. She asks if Lauren has informed Eileen that she'll be moving. Lauren says she just fancies a bit of "loft-living" but a scuzzy one-bedroom will do for now.

At the hospital, Sean is cuddling the baby and remarks to Jamie that maybe Dylan should be called Newton, or Ridley. Violet joins them and Jamie sticks the knife in a bit and tells Violet that Sean thinks the baby should be called Ridley. Sean tells Violet that the name Dylan, "every single letter" is perfect, as is the baby. Violet takes Dylan and Sean tells her how much it suits her. Sean asks a big question- he was hoping that Violet would consider naming Sean as the father on Dylan's birth certificate. "It's the best thing I've ever done," he says, "and I'd like that in writing. For me and for Dylan." Violet tells him she'll have a think about it and comes near to tears as Sean leans over to kiss his son and asks, "Could a baby be more loved?" When Sean leaves, Jamie ruins the mood entirely by giving Violet one of those looks and Violet says, "I know, I know!"

Outside the Rovers, Vernon and Steve have Dev and Jerry Morton watching them trying to coax Alex to open the door and then Liam joins them. Jerry tells Liam to go to the Weathy Arms before explaining to Liam what has happened. Ryan happens along to hear what has happened as well. Liam and Alex peel off and walk across the street, leaving the gathering crowd at the pub. Liam tells Ryan if he ever wants to escape the madness then he should go to Liam's.

In the cafe, Lauren makes a call about one of the flats in the Gazette. She finds out that the flat being advertised is Violet's flat.

At the Platts' David has ordered in Indian food for Tina and himself. Tina has to go home to see her Mum who has returned from her holiday. Tina inadvertently mentions her ex, Matt and David instantly gets a touch of the green-eyed monster. He discovers that Matt binned Tina and then begged for a second chance. Tina tells David she doesn't do second chances but that she and Matt are still mates. Ooh, David's not pleased, jealousy washes over him. Incidentally, David is wearing a Mr Rude t-shirt. Mr Rude is the newest Mr Men character and, some might say in a spectacularly un-PC fashion, has a French accent. Coronation St is really on the button with what the kids are up to these days!

Back in the Rovers, Alex still hasn't opened the doors to the bar. It must have been a while because Michelle suspects he should be hungry by now. Having said that, my teenage boys are hungry all the time, so it may also be just half an hour so so that he's been locked in there. Alex asks if he can have a packet of crisps and says he'll pay for them. Michelle tells Alex through the door that she wishes Alex would trust her and talk to her. That does the trick and Alex opens the door. Instead of giving him a clip round the ear she gives him a hug.

Outside in the street, Violet and Jamie have arrived home with Dylan. Violet is anxious to get inside for fear of running into Sean, I would imagine. Jerry Morton comes across them and lets Violet in on the fact that Sean has been telling everyone about Dylan. He mentions to Jamie that Sean will be wetting the baby's head in the Rovers tonight, they'll be celebrating. After Jerry has left, Jamie tells Violet, "Five minutes we've been back and already I can't breathe..."

In the living at the Rovers, Michelle and Alex are talking. Michelle tells him maybe he needs to go back home where things will be back to normal for him. Alex is not happy at the thought of only seeing Michelle for the occasional milk-shake and has a whine about his living arrangements with the people who have loved him as their son and brought him up as best they can. The ungrateful little so-and-so. Feeling super-sorry for himself he challenges Michelle about how she can't wait to get rid of him, "Oh nobody wants me... woe is me.... blah blah blah.... I don't want to go back...." Michelle falls for it; hook, line and sinker.

At the Platts' Tina and David are finished dinner. Tina challenges David. "Are you in a strop?" she asks him and then she realises that David is jealous. She asks him if he never stayed mates with any of his exes. David tells her that Tracey (!) turned into a right mentalist and then goes on to say how she was so possessive of him that he had to sack her, even though she was fit as. And Maria (!) couldn't pick between him and another mental psycho, Charlie the builder. Tina feels sorry for him and reassures him with a hug that not all of them are mad cows. I think we all know who else is a mentalist!

At Jamie and Violet's, Jamie is lugging suitcases around the house. Lauren barges in with her emergency key. She tells Violet that if she'd told her that they were moving out that Violet could have sublet to Lauren. Jamie and Violet try to cover their tracks by telling her they need more space and it was a sudden decision, etc. Lauren seems to be satisfied by this explanation and settles in for a cuppa while Jamie looks uncomfortable in the background.

At Carla's Tony is pouring Carla a glass of wine. They decide that their new arrangement worked well. Carla tells Tony that Liam has a talent for making contracts which seems to annoy Tony. Carla heads off for a shower.

In the living room at the Rovers, Michelle tells Steve she thinks she made a breakthrough with Alex. She tells Steve that Alex is genuinely sorry about what happened with Amy and then breaks the big news that Alex will be staying a bit longer. Steve is not pleased and asks about Ryan. Michelle hope that Ryan will learn that there's enough of him to go around.

David and Tina are playing PlayStation on Gail's couch. They seem happy. David brings up the subject of Matt again. He seems relieved that Tina doesn't see much of Matt since Matt has moved away and drags her up to bed.

In the pub, Sean is showing his picture of him holding Dylan to his friends. He hopes that Dylan will "have the Wilson nose but my ability to sing all the songs from the shows." Lauren comes in with Darrel. She gets Darrel to buy her a double and tells Sean that Violet and Jamie are moving out of their flat. They remark how Violet could have told them. Lauren reckons that Violet is such a drama queen that one day she'll discover that all along she's been a Russian spy.

In the living room of the pub, Michelle has told Ryan about Alex staying for longer and asks him to be mature about it. "Me?" exclaims Alex, "I'm not the one who spat me dummy out!" Quite right. Michelle defends Alex telling Ryan that Alex is confused by everything that's happened. Ryan points out that the same thing is happening to him and tells Michelle, "He's a spoiled, snide brown-noser and I'm not sharing a room with him!" Finally, someone has said what we were all thinking! At least what I was thinking! Ryan leaves and tells Michelle, just in case she was interested that his football team won 3-2 today. After Ryan has left, Michelle tells Steve she needs to give Alex another week, "he's had so much rejection in his life." Oh boo hoo. Steve points out that she's bonding with him and Michelle agrees that finally, she is. She says he definitely goes back to Wendy's in a week's time. Steve agrees, if Alex behaves himself. Michelle tells Steve that she could always move out and take her circus with her. Neither she nor Steve wants that, obviously. She tells Steve that after all the years she wasn't there for Alex, she can't turn her back on him now. Steve begrudgingly agrees.

Stella McLoughlin

Gail is trying to get out to work but can't find her keys because David and Tina have left the place in a mess. Tina says she'll clear up for her, but David protests that she's a guest and she won't. As Gail goes off out of the door Tina tells David that she doesn't mind, she's going to do it and he's going to help her! In fact, she thinks that they should cook Gail a meal. David doesn't want to but Tina persuades him that if he's nice to his mum, she'll be nice to him. "It's an interesting theory," mutters David. Tina takes dirty crocks out to the kitchen and finds Gail's keys, so she gives them to David and tells him to go after his mum. "Do it for me, it'll be fun," she says, kissing him. He does as he's told, and when he catches up with Gail he tells her about the meal they plan to cook for her. Gail is convinced there's a catch, she assumes Tina wants to move in permanently, but David assures her that it's just their way of saying thanks.

Dan is moaning to his dad that all his furniture has turned his minimalist flat into something resembling a junk shop. He suggests that Harry gets rid of all his stuff, so eventually he promises to sort something out.

Sean tells Marcus that he can't wait for Violet to stop breastfeeding and put the baby on a bottle so he can play a bigger part in his life. However, he's worried by what Lauren has told them about Violet and Jamie moving. Lauren says she thinks they're acting weird, she's looking out for Sean and he'll thank her one day. Sean says he can't bear to think anything bad about his two best friends. Marcus suggests Sean goes round to see them, it might put his mind at rest. Sean isn't sure he should, so Marcus says he can just go round and see his son, to see if he can help at all. Then he can calmly tell them he knows about the move and would appreciate being kept informed in future.

In the back room of the Rovers, Michelle is telling Steve how much she appreciates all he's doing. (What is he doing? He's grudgingly allowing her son to stay there, and not being very supportive at all!) He tells her if she leaves it would be the end of them, (so that's the only reason he's doing it!) and she thinks that in the end it will all make the two of them stronger. Just then a very subdued Alex comes in and apologises for his behaviour the night before. Michelle gets up and gives him a hug, just as Ryan appears in the doorway. Michelle turns round and sees him just as he turns and walks away.

Gail is visiting Audrey in the salon, telling her about David's offer of the meal, convinced he's after something. Audrey tells her to enjoy it, he'll probably switch over to his dark side at any minute. Just then David comes in with shopping bags full of ingredients for the meal. Gail suggests that Audrey comes too, and David says he's bought plenty of food.

Back at the Rovers, a quiet, well-behaved Alex asks if he can go upstairs to his room to read. "Talk about the calm after the storm," says Steve, but Michelle reminds him that now Ryan has gone off. Steve thinks it probably doesn't help that the boys have to share a room. As Steve goes off to work, Wendy comes in (followed by Ryan who appears not to have gone to his room to read), she's brought some of Ryan's stuff over. Michelle tells her that she appreciates her letting Alex stay.

Over in their flat, a very tired Violet tells an equally tired Jamie that she could sleep for a week. She tells him that he's been fantastic, and he says that he's loving every minute of it and he can't wait until it's just the three of them. Violet says she's worried that Sean will find out, everything was fine until her sister started poking her nose in. Jamie is sure that Lauren will have believed everything they've told her, but Violet says she won't leave it there, she's bound to tell Sean. Just then there's a ring on their doorbell "it's Sean!" Jamie tells Violet he'll handle it and goes off downstairs.

On the doorstep, Jamie tells Sean that Violet and the baby are asleep. "Oh, I was looking forward to seeing him," pouts Sean. Jamie tells him to come round later. As they walk away together, Sean tells Jamie he's heard they're moving, and Jamie tells him his head's all over the place, nothing's certain, they haven't even found anywhere to move to yet. Sean says he'd rather hear it from Jamie than Lauren. As they walk to the corner they meet Steve, who jokes about them being 'proud fathers'. As Steve goes off, Sean starts to tell Jamie he doesn't mind where they live, and Jamie interrupts him telling him that the moment they decide anything he'll be the first to know and he's sorry he heard the news via the jungle telegraph. Sean says they have to make it work for the baby's sake and Jamie assures him that the only reason they're doing it is for the baby's sake, they need more space.

Liam is in his office when Ryan arrives, not happy about Alex's presence and the fact that his mum is letting him stay another week. "She's putty in his hands," he says, "I'm sharing a room with a psychopath!" Liam tells him that if it all gets too much he's welcome at their house. Ryan asks if he can move in, but Liam seems reluctant. Ryan hastily adds "Just for the week, just till he's gone."

Marcus arrives to see Violet and the baby, explaining that he thought if he came without Sean he stood more chance of getting a cuddle. He then engages Violet in conversation, and asks questions "has the midwife been round? And where are they thinking of moving to?" She tells him they'll probably stay around Manchester, they're looking for two bedrooms and a garden.

Liam arrives home with Ryan in tow, telling him it's up to his mother whether he stays or not. Ryan says she won't mind, she's spending all her time with 'golden boy' now. Liam tells him he can't blame his mother for what happened, it's tough on her too. Ryan tells him it's horrible over at the pub now, and pleads to be allowed to stay. Liam tells him he'll have to ring Maria and ask her to come home, and then ring Michelle and get her to come over and then they'll all have to sit down and talk it over.

At Gail's house, Tina and David are making the dinner and pouring wine for Audrey and Gail. Just then Tina's phone bleeps with a message, it's from Matt, her ex, wanting to meet her.

Jamie arrives home, keen to help care for the baby. Violet tells him that Marcus came round and seemed to know all about the move, although he didn't seem all that bothered. Jamie says that Sean didn't either, when he saw him. They then realise that they've told two different stories, Violet told Marcus that they'd started looking for somewhere else to live, whereas Jamie told Sean that they hadn't even decided where to move to. Violet is upset that they have to tell lies, and Jamie tells her that his friend has found him a job ... as a croupier in a casino.

Michelle has arrived at Liam's and is trying to reason with Ryan. She tells him that right now Alex seems to need her. "I need you!" says Ryan. She tells him she can't let him stop there, they should be trying to work things through together as a family, but he argues that it's only for a week. Out in the kitchen, Maria quietly tells Liam that she feels sorry for Ryan. "Enough to let him share our matrimonial home?" asks Liam. "He is your nephew," says Maria, "if it will help, yes." They walk back into the sitting room as Michelle and Ryan start to raise their voices. Liam says that as it's getting late, he doesn't think it would be the end of the world if Ryan stays there for a couple of days. "Oh thank you for your support!" snaps Michelle, but Liam points out that she can't drag him home. Outnumbered, Michelle finally agrees that he can stay.

Dan arrives home to his flat to find that his father has kept all his own furniture and got rid of Dan's.

At the Platt's, they're all sitting round the table. Gail has had a few glasses of wine and tells the teenagers that if they made the dinner because they want to ask if Tina can move in, Gail would say yes because she thinks Tina is a lovely girl. Tina and David take the dirty dishes out to the kitchen, and David asks her when she's going to meet her ex. "Have you got a problem with it?" she asks, adding that she doesn't do 'jealous', she and Matt are mates. David says he was just asking. Tina explains that he's home from uni for a couple of days and they'll probably just go to town for a coffee. They end up arguing, and Tina storms out.

In the pub, Kelly is cross because she's been to do a knicker party in Bolton, on the bus, and half of those who turned up weren't interested in buying anything, they just wanted a night out. It seems that Kelly doesn't really have the knack of selling ...she told them they were all a bunch of timewasters and they all walked out.

Sean is a bit miffed when he hears that Marcus went to see Violet, on his own. Marcus tells him not to be jealous, he's also an untrained spy! They soon realise that Violet and Jamie's stories don't match.

David runs after Tina as she marches off down the road. Catching up with her he tells her that he loves her. "No you don't!" she says, but she stops and kisses him.

Back in the pub, Marcus goes on to tell Sean that he spoke to Violet's midwife and found that she's cancelled her visits. "Why would she do that?" asks Sean. "Because she's not planning on sticking around," says Marcus, "their plans are a lot further down the road than they're letting on, and you mate, are out of the loop."

Anne Logan.

Ryan's having breakfast with Maria and Liam. The conversation is a bit awkward but they reassure him that he's welcome. He heads off for school and Liam says to Maria, "Poor kid."

Michelle's sweeping the pavement outside the Rovers (must have a new job with the council!) when Ryan comes past. She offers to make him a packed lunch but he says Maria's already made one. Michelle tells him she really misses him. Steve comes out and says he's just giving Alex a lift to school but Ryan wants to get the bus. Sean, Lauren and Marcus come out of their place. Lauren thinks Sean's just being paranoid, but Marcus points out that Violet cancelled the midwife. He advises Sean to talk to them. Lauren advises Sean to chill. Further along the street, Sean bumps into Jamie coming out of the corner shop with some baby formula powder. He cross examines Jamie about Violet breastfeeding and Jamie says she's doing a bit of both so they can take turns with the feeds. Sean says he wants to talk about putting his name on the birth certificate, but Jamie tells him it'll have to be later.

Jamie tells Violet about meeting Sean. Violet asks him if he knows what the date is. There's something women can do on February 29. Yes, she's asking Jamie to marry her. She wants his name on the birth certificate and she wants to be married to him. "Ask me properly and I might consider it," he says. "James Andrew Baldwin, will you marry me?" he asks.

David's in the kebab shop (at this time in the morning?) full of angst about Tina. Darryl has other things on his mind. "Do I smell of meat?" David wants to do something big to prove to Tina how committed he is. Darryl's worried about a dream he had that the kebab meat chased him down the street.

It's morning tea time in the cafe and they're out of custard creams. Sean offers to go and get some more. Kelly grumps at Wiki over how little money she's making from selling horrible knickers.

Of course, Sean's straight over the road to Violet's. He asks if he can see Dylan and Violet takes him upstairs where Jamie's feeding the baby. Sean asks if he can feed him. He sits down and they give him Dylan and the bottle. "I can't believe he's here, all soft and warm," Sean says. "It's true what they say, isn't it? You never know love until you've had your child in your arms." Sean offers to change the baby, too. Violet's in pieces.

In the factory they've noticed Sean isn't back. Liam, still grumpy over his custard creams, wants better work from the machinists. He tells someone I've never seen before that her seams are all wonky and chucks the knickers in the reject bin.

Sean brings back the changed baby and asks them about cancelling the midwife. Violet tells him she just didn't get on with the first midwife and has actually asked for someone else. Jamie reassures him that they're not moving away. Then he tells Sean that it's not a problem to put Sean's name on the birth certificate! Sean has to get back to work but he says he's so glad they had a chat. Violet's very upset. "Can't we please just go today?" She doesn't know how much longer they can look Sean in the face and lie to him like that. Jamie agrees they'll go today.

Kelly lingers behind the others at lunchtime. Steve comes in to see Liam, who offers him a coffee. Kelly waits till their backs are turned and hurriedly fills her handbag with reject knickers. She doesn't know Wiki has seen her. Steve wants to talk to Liam about Ryan and Alex and especially Michelle. "Where's it going to end?" he asks. He wonders what will happen when Alex's week is up if he doesn't want to go home and they'll be back at square one. "But can I say this to her ... no!" "So that's why you're saying it to me?" asks Liam. Steve admits it is. "And do you want me to say anything back?" asks Liam. Steve doesn't. He just wanted to get it off his chest and now he feels much better.

David has taken Darryl to a tattoo parlour. He thinks that if he gets a tattoo of Tina's name, she'll know he loves her. Darryl doesn't want one. He doesn't believe in desecrating his body. David accuses him of being scared of needles and dares him to.

Lauren's in the cafe with Marcus. She's been buying baby clothes. Sean comes in and admires them. He tells them he's seen the baby and Violet and everything's fine. And he's going to have his name on the birth certificate. Marcus doesn't seem entirely convinced.

Violet and Dylan are in the pub, with the factory staff cooing over him. Maria, Liam and Michelle are at a table. Maria assures Michelle that it's no problem having Ryan, because it's only for the week. Michelle and Maria go over to see the baby. She's asked for her wages, but Vernon says Liz seems to have mixed up the days off. Violet says she'll just leave it and come in another day. She hugs Michelle and excuses it by saying she's just been a bit weepy. Wiki comes in. She's been for a walk because she had to think.

In the cafe, Sean's still all enthusiastic about Dylan popping round after school . . . Marcus tells him to slow down a bit. The baby is only a few days old and Sean should be happy with what he's got. "Take one day at a time," he advises. But Sean's already picturing helping Dylan with his chemistry homework and is thinking of learning Spanish so they can bring him up bilingual!

The tattooist is about to start on David's arm. Darryl's eyes are on stalks.

Lauren sees Jamie packing stuff into the car. He says it's just him going. He's going to a stag do. She wants to go and see Violet, but Jamie says Vi's asleep. Lauren says she'll be back later.

Jamie rushes upstairs and tells Violet they have to get a move on. Dylan needs changing, so Jamie takes more stuff to the car while Violet's changes him.

In the pub, Vernon asks how long Alex is there for, and Steve tells him, "Just the week." Vernon says he'd rather have Ryan. Steve counters that it's not a competition, but Vernon says it look like it is, and it looks like Alex has won. "Yeah, well, Ryan's coming back, whether Alex is still her or not." Vernon can't see the two of them sharing a room so Steve says well maybe they'll have to move. As he walks off, Vernon offers up a little prayer. The factory women are off back to work, but Wiki takes Kelly aside and says she saw Kelly take the knickers. Kelly denies it outright. Lauren comes in, late for work, and Steve asks her to take Violet's wages to her.

Lauren arrives back just in time to see Jamie put the baby seat into the car. She rushes inside.

Violet is just settling Dylan into his carry cot. Lauren flings the wage packet on a chair. "Here! You'll need this if you're planning on running off!" Violet denies knowing what she's on about. Lauren points out that she's been defending Violet, saying she didn't have it in her to be devious. "I'm there blowing my wages on baby clothes and all the time you're planning on running off!" Violet says she wanted to tell her sister but couldn't. Lauren says of course she would have told Sean. "Shame on him for loving his kid." She says Dylan is Sean's child whether they like it or not. She rushes off to tell him. Jamie hustles a weeping Violet out of the flat.

The End, for now.
Watch out for episode two.

Margaret Carr

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Updates written by K Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen, Ann Logan, Margaret Carr, Amanda Souter, Stella McLoughlin, Tvor, Erica Houston.

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