2010

Thursday 2 September

At the Websters' breakfast table, Rosie is mortified, as is Sally, that the neighbourhood all think that Sophie might be a lesbian. Poor Rosie just looks down at her plate wishing everyone would stop talking about it all.

Liz is berating a hungover Becky for having sacked Michelle, a perfectly good barmaid who Becky had no business sacking anyway. Becky points out that she is now Liz's daughter-in-law and that Kylie is now Steve's sister-in-law. Family ties mean nothing to Liz, Michelle will be keeping her job as a barmaid.

Sophie is with her dad, being comforted in their lounge room. She can't believe how Sally is so anti-gay. Kevin wonders if Sophie is just confused. Sophie tells Kevin that thinking she is confused is really insulting. She and Sian are in love, it's not a phase. She asks if Kevin has ever thought about kissing Tyrone or Ashley. Kevin has a giggle. Sophie explains, "Dad, you know you're straight, I know I'm not." She pleads with Kevin not to tell Sally because she neither wants Sally to stop her from seeing Sian or for Sally to get stressed out by it all. Kevin agrees and tells her that she is not a disappointment to her and that he will eventually come to terms with her sexuality.

In the street, Dev and Sunita arrive home from the hospital. Claire asks how Adi is. Dev is not happy to talk to her but Claire assures them that nothing happened to their son. Dev blows up at Claire while Sally runs across the street to Claire to tell her that if she calls Sophie a lesbian again, she will sue her for slander.

Out in the smokers' yard, Kylie and Liz are chatting. Kylie discovers Steve motorbike. Liz, perhaps setting up Kylie for a fall, tells Kylie that in addition to the bike, Steve also has a few hundred quid's worth of gear to go with it. Becky comes out; she and Kylie are headed off to start their plan to try and get Kylie's little boy back.

Claire is crying on her sofa. Ashley tries to comfort her. Claire assures him she hasn't gone off her rocker but she is upset that her friends don't believe her that she didn't hurt Adi. She thinks that everyone, no matter what she achieves in her life, will only ever think of Claire as the woman who tried to kill a baby while in the depths of depression. Poor Claire.

Sophie meets Sian in the ginnel. Sian thinks that people are looking at them funny. Sophie tells her that she has told Kevin about their relationship and that Kevin is being very good about it all. Sian still doesn't want to tell anyone. Sophie still thinks that Sally will stop them from seeing each other. The make a plan to run away together so that they can be with each other.

In the cafe, Kylie is flirting with Ryan who has no idea what to say back to her. She has been out buying more conservative clothes to convince social services to let her have custody of her son again. Mary comes into the cafe. Becky alludes to the fact that while Roy & Hayley's wedding was dead romantic, there was a slight hitch which the police are looking into. Mary seems uncomfortable.

Sally goes to see Kevin in the garage. She wants to apologise to him and for him to apologise to her for not backing her up when Claire was accusing Sophie of being a lesbian. Kevin asks if that really would be such a bad thing and then tells Sally straight, "Sian's more than Sophie's mate. They're a couple." Sally is lost for words.

Liz is in the smokers' yard again. Steve interrupts her having a smoke. Liz tells Steve he has to sort out the Becky & Michelle situation but Steve thinks that they should sort it out amongst themselves. He discovers his motorbike is missing. Oh, who could that have been? "Flamin' Kylie!" exclaims Liz.

Sophie is packing a bag in the front room at the Websters'. Rosie is prattling on in the background. At some point she realises that Sophie is up to something. Sophie explains that she is in love with Sian and they are running together away so that Sally can't stop them from seeing each other. Rosie is surprisingly supportive and, when she realises Rosie is not going to change her mind, gives her what money she has in her wallet, £23, to help.

Kevin and Sally are in the pub, talking about Sophie. Sally is still in denial. She thinks that Sian has been leading Sophie astray and that Sophie is merely confused. When Kevin points out that Sally said earlier that Claire calling Sophie a lesbian was a nasty thing to do, Sally recalls her awful words and tells Kevin, actually, she doesn't mind lesbians at all. Mary, Queen of Shops is a lesbian and she loves Mary, Queen of Shops. She can't understand why Sophie wouldn't have confided in her. Kevin thinks he was just in the right place at the right time.

Kylie and Becky arrive home from their shopping trip/cafe time. Steve instantly accuses Kylie of stealing the motorbike, by way of telling them that Liz had mentioned Kylie looking at the bike earlier. Out in the yard, Becky confronts Liz and tells her that Kylie couldn't have stolen the bike because Kylie has been with her all afternoon. "Hand on heart," says Kylie, "I didn't rob your bike." Becky thinks Kylie deserves an apology but none is forthcoming from Liz.

Mary is out eating cream cakes maniacally on the bench in the street. Natasha passes her and they chat for a second before Nick turns up. Natasha tells Nick that she nearly forgot to go for her ultrasound this afternoon and presents him with a scan photo of their baby. Fizz witnesses this and after Nick has gone, confronts Natasha about her having stolen Fizz's scan photo. Natasha doesn't seem to know what to say.

Sian and Sophie are on the bus with sleeping bags and bars of chocolate. They make a plan to go to Scarborough where they can find jobs waiting tables and/or bar work. Sophie tells Sian how supportive Rosie was when she told her about them being in love. The bus heads off.

Inside Nick & Natasha's, Natasha confesses to Fizz that she isn't pregnant. She breaks down and tells Fizz that she knows Nick is only with her because of the baby and she can't bear to lose him. She goes on to tell her that she is desperate to fall pregnant again, which she thinks can happen any day. Natasha knows how terrible her plan is but Fizz is very kind even though she tries to urge Natasha to tell Nick the truth.

Out in the ginnel, that little so&so, Kylie, gets given a fistful of cash from a dodgy looking fellow who stole Steve's bike and sold it on. The lad asks Kylie where she'll be off to next. Kylie thinks she likes it at the Rovers, she's going to stop there for a while.

Kevin and Sally come home to discover that Sophie has run away from home. Sally is devastated that Sophie would rather sleep on the streets than stay with them. "We've got to find her, Kevin," says Sally, absolutely distraught.

Stella McLoughlin


Friday 3 September

No Corrie aired today.


Sunday 5 September

Written By Martin Allen and Chris Fewtrell Directed by Graeme Harper

Here's the first half of the hour long Sunday episode.

Kevin was up half the night driving around to look for Sophie and Sally is up early ringing round to all of Sophie's friends. She's in bits and blaming herself because Sophie was afraid to talk to her. Kevin assures her it wasn't her fault. Rosie comes down and asks if there is any news. She gives Kevin a birthday card and gift which he accepts with a kiss on her cheek but nobody is in the mood to celebrate today. Rosie thinks Sophie will come back soon enough but Sally worries something will happen to her.

Kylie is counting a wad of money, her share for the stolen motorbike. She hides it as Becky and Steve come in bickering. Max's birthday party is that afternoon but Steve is apparently too busy to drive them. Becky and Steve bicker over the bike. Becky reckons if he'd sold it when he should have, there wouldn't be a problem now. Kylie doesn't want to talk about it all (guilty, much?) and the subject is changed.

Nick is in the cafe and he's enthusiastically talking about baby names to Natasha who is increasingly uncomfortable with all the trouble she's got herself into. Eddie is behind the counter, must be helping out while Roy and Hayley are on honeymoon. At least he's got his hair tied back! He drops a piece of bacon on the floor and picks it up with his (plastic gloved) hands but poor Fiz's face turns a bit green. Eddie ends up eating the piece himself. Ew! Fiz decides she's lost her appetite (to morning sickness, so she says to them!) so Eddie eats the sandwich himself. Nick asks Fiz when the food cravings start and is waiting to be sent out in the middle of the night for some unusual combination of foods. Fiz scampers off to the loo and Natasha looks shifty as usual.

In the corner shop, Leanne is getting some parsnips for the Sunday roast. Simon doesn't seem to be too keen on school questions from Sunita. Leanne asks after Aadi and Simon looks very glum and says he doesn't want to play with Aadi anymore. Leanne scolds him for being rude so he says the words but doesn't feel the apology.

The police have been called to the Websters. A women PC takes a photo from Sally and asks if the girls have any funds. Sally also shows her a note which doesn't make a lot of sense. Sally tries not to go into detail but reluctantly says that the girls have been in a secret relationship and once it got out, they ran off thinking their parents wouldn't approve. Bill is there as well and he's quite surprised that the rumour turned out to be true. The PC says they'll circulate the details and tells them not to worry, most runaways do come back on their own and they'll do everything they can to find Sophie.

Norris is reading a magazine that purports Sept. 5 as a bad luck day and tells Rita of all the horrible things listed that have happened on that date in history including the start of the Terror in Revolutionary France, the terrorists attacked at the 1972 Olympics... Kylie comes in and Norris' guard is immediately up. She's looking around at the gifts as Norris whispers to Rita who Kylie is related to. He jumps when she picks up a large firetruck but is then astonished when she purchases it for cash. Rita says a 4 year old will love it! Kylie gives Norris the penny from her change, saying little coins get on her nerves. Kylie 1, Norris 0. Rita reckons it's not such an unlucky day after all!

Bill and Kevin come outside and plan to go off in different directions to look for Sophie. Michelle and Lloyd both ask what's up and when told, Lloyd says he'll get the cabbies on the lookout and Michelle offers any help she can. Church bells are ringing in the background.

Kylie brings the truck into the Rovers, assuring Becky she paid for it. She lies and says she pawned her ring because she wants to pay her own way. She also gives Becky some money to pay her back for a top she bought her yesterday. Becky is taken in and approves of Kylie's attitude, saying when you give up thieving and any other illegal activities, the better you feel about yourself. She should know! Kylie looks a bit uncomfortable. Becky describes how everyone blamed her for everything at first but she can look people in the eye now. Kylie says she just wants Max back and Becky figures if she carries on like this, she will! Um...

In the Peacock house, Claire is sitting at the table alone with a cuppa when Ashley comes in. He tells her that the girls have run away because people found out they really are lesbians. Claire blames herself for that too. Ashley wonders if they ran away because they did do something that hurt Aadi after all. It makes more sense than running away because they're gay after all. Claire wishes she could run away sometimes. (Hmm... forerunner of things to come?)

In hospital, Sunita, Asha and Dev are playing with Aadi who, while still in bed with his head bandaged, is a lot perkier and obviously feeling much better. They are all rowdy when the doctor comes in to check and he says Aadi is doing really well. Can't remember what actually happened but that's normal. They are told Aadi can probably come home next week.

After the first break tonight, Leanne is gossiping in the Kabin with Rita and Michelle about Sophie and Sian. Norris goes off on one and rants that most young girls round there aren't normal anyway. Rosie goes around half naked and Tina lived in a darkened room with a mentally ill window cleaner! (Where *are* Tina and Graeme anyway? Fall in love and disappeared off the face of the earth!) Rita scolds the girls for getting him started. He's been examining the 50 pound note Kylie had given him. Rita asks him if it's a fake but he thinks not. Michelle admits that Kylie is a nightmare just the same. Leanne admits she had a crush on a girl when she was 13 but rushes to point out that it was really just hero worship and she grew out of it. Michelle hopes the girls don't come to any harm. They all agree.

Emily is visiting Ken and talking about his impending visit with Lawrence. He's nervous about this first visit with his unknown son. He tells Emily he was always a bit nervous with Lawrence's mother, Susan, always amazed she even went out with him as they were from different backgrounds completely. He says Susan was a huge part of his life at one time (for all of a few months, actually) and Emily reminds him about Deirdre, who is a much huger part of his life now. She's noticed that things are tense between them but he assures her it'll all be ok.

In the pub, Fiz is talking to Natasha and urges her to tell Nick the truth about the non-baby. Obviously, Natasha isn't keen to tell because she fears losing Nick. She thinks she might be pregnant again, only because something doesn't feel right. (So I take it she's not late, yet, then?) She's not taken a test yet either but they hush as Nick returns to the table with the drinks. He asks Fiz if they've talked about names yet but Fiz puts the subject away, saying it's bad luck in the first three months. Natasha looks at her gratefully.

Back to Number 1, Deirdre has arrived and greets Emily. She wasn't aware that Ken got in touch with Susan and discovered the existence of a son, telling Emily that Ken really hasn't talked to her about anything lately. Emily says that Susan is dead but she had a son who, Ken says, is coming around for tea today. She snipes at him both before and after Emily leaves. He asks her not to bicker with him when Lawrence arrives (that's Susan's son's name).

Becky and Kylie arrive at the foster home, present under arm for Max. Max is happy to see his mummy and Kylie helps him open the present that she's wrapped for him. Later, when Max is playing with the truck, siren included, Becky talks to the foster parents who say that all the red tape never makes things easy. Kylie listens from the other room. She brings Max in for the birthday cake candle lighting ceremony.

Sally is sitting with Rita in the pub and looking upset. Claire, across the way, thinks Sally is giving her the evil eye but really she wasn't, not this time. Rita tries to assure Sally that Sophie will be ok. Sally is still blaming herself. She asks Lloyd if there's news. No. Eddie makes a twit of himself as usual, remarking that the two teenagers might have had something to do with Aadi's injuries since they ran off. Sally takes exception, naturally. Rita and Sally leave after Rita calls Eddie out for his attitude. Michelle does as well, saying he needs a spam filter between his brain and his gob! (Ha! Good one!)

Anna hollers down the street at Ashley and Claire, asking if they heard about Sophie and Sian. Claire mutters that they can't get away from it! Sunita and Dev arrive home with Asha and everyone is happy that Aadi will be home soon. Sunita tells them the news but Dev has a nasty swipe, as usual. Ashley defends his wife with a testy remark about everyone's aggro making Claire ill. He tells them that Sophie and Sian ran away and implies the girls could have done something they aren't admitting to. When they get to their own doorstep, Claire is practically in tears and says she's going to stay at her mother's for awhile to get away from it all.

Ken is fussing with the sofa cushions while he waits for Lawrence's arrival. Deirdre makes a snarky remark or three until Ken demands she either behave or disappear for a couple of hours. There's a knock on the door and Ken lets in Lawrence. He comes in and is introduced to Deirdre. The two men stand side by side in almost the same clothing (dark jacket, white shirt, only Lawrence is wearing a tie). Their hair is similarly thick and wavy and the resemblance between them is quite obvious, at least to Deirdre whose eyes widen. When she offers them tea they both turn and say together "Cup of tea sounds great!"

The foster mum tells Kylie it's time to leave. Becky talks them into letting her take Max to the loo when he asks to go.

Rosie takes a call from Sophie. She won't say where she is but says she's ok. Rosie tells her that the police have been around and everything. Sally comes in and grabs the phone but Sophie soon hangs up.

Seems like Kylie and Max have been in the toilet a long time. Foster mum calls up and when there's no answer, she goes upstairs. As expected, nobody's in the toilet! (How did she get a 4 year old out!! Surely not through the window!) Everyone runs outside to see if they can see her. Becky says she'll handle it and asks them not to call the police yet. Becky tries to talk them out of it and they imply Becky was in on the escape plan because she'd encouraged them to give Kylie 5 extra minutes. Too late, though, the "abduction" is being reported!

That's the half time mark... stay tuned for the rest of the show's update from Duncan.

Tvor

Kevin is trying to trace the number from which Sophie called while Sally rants at Rosie, asking her why she didn't find out where she was. Rosie retorts that she didn't have much of a chance before Sally snatched the phone and besides, Sophie only phoned as she promised Rosie. Kevin and Sally are aghast that Rosie knew and Rosie snaps that she doesn't blame Sophie for going as Sally would never understand. Sally tells her she would forgive Sophie for anything but Rosie points out that she has done nothing to forgive...she just wants to be herself.

Sunita and Dev are sitting outside having a cup of tea. Dev is marvelling at how close they came to losing Aadi and he wants justice brought on Sophie and Sian. Sunita tells him the real reason they will have run away but Dev tells her that it's even more likely they're guilty and covering up more lies. He is still convinced they're to blame for Aadi's injuries.

Becky is angry that the police have been called and assures the foster carers that Max couldn't be in better hands. She promises that she will sort everything out.

Sally has followed Rosie and tells her that Sophie is too young to make decisions like this. Rosie rolls her eyes and tells Sally that it's not a choice. Kevin interrupts saying he's found out which phone box Sophie called from and he rushes away to search for her.

Ken and Lawrence are having an in depth discussion on Ken's time with Susan and the pros and cons of modern education, with the odd barbed interjection from Deirdre (I swear she's becoming more and more like her mother!) Deirdre asks Lawrence if he is married and he says that his wife died but their marriage was rocky anyway...as he had been unfaithful.

While Steve tells Liz how he misses his old leather jacket, Kylie runs past with Max.

Natasha has done a pregnancy test and is waiting for the result with Fiz, who warns her it's a long shot. Natasha is crushed when the test is negative and breaks down in tears.

Ken is full of the joys of having had a decent literary debate but Deirdre brings him crashing down by pointing out how similar Lawrence is to him...mannerisms and all. She says that Lawrence never met his father...but he has now!

Steve comes through wearing a denim jacket that is far too small for him. Liz finds this comical but is worried about what Kylie is up to.

Nick offers to buy Leanne a drink but she says she doesn't want to upset Natasha. Nick tells her that they are all adults.

Becky dashes through and catches Kylie who is about to take Max out the back door. She refuses to move and manages to prise Max away. She directs Kylie into the back room where they will have a talk before picking up the phone and bracing herself...

Kylie is telling Becky that she couldn't stand the way the foster couple were staring at her. It was clear they didn't trust her. Becky points out that they had good reason seeing as she has snatched him. Kylie pouts and says it seemed like a good idea at the time. Becky tells her she has got to give him back...she would never last on the run with him.

Ken has invited Lawrence back to the house. He asks when he was born. The dates match...Ken admits to Lawrence that he is his father.

Kylie is horrified when the police turn up and Becky admits that she called them. The police officer moves forward but Kylie threatens to deck him. Becky comes between them and asks the officer for a minute to speak to Kylie. The officer eventually relents but tells her he will be waiting outside.

Kevin has had no luck searching for Sophie. Sally worries that she will be sleeping on the streets.

Steve has decided to ditch the denim jacket and Liz tells him it's a relief as if he breathed out the buttons would take out every bottle in the place.

Lawrence is trying to get his head around the news that Ken is his dad. He says he feels cheated...life could have been different. Ken agrees that it would have been for him too and he wishes he had known. Of all the regrets in his life, the missed opportunity with Susan is his biggest...now more than ever. Ken asks about Lawrence's children. He is full of pride about his daughter Chloe...but very cagey about his son James.

Leanne tells Nick that she is glad he and Natasha are back on track. As Natasha comes in, Leanne makes a hasty retreat.

Becky tells Kylie that she has stopped her making a terrible mistake...they have to play things by the book now. If she had run away, she would have been caught...and never seen Max for a very long time. She hugs Kylie and says it'll be hard, but she has to act sorry and hand Max over.

Dev makes a beeline for Kevin and Sally and accuses Sophie of being responsible for Aadi's injuries. Kevin is about to hit Dev but Sally holds him back and tells Dev that she is proud of her daughter and she would never hurt another human being, let alone a child and if he or Sunita ever insinuates otherwise again, it'll be her, not Kevin who will need holding back.

Kylie tearfully hands Max over and says she is sorry . The officer can see remorse and says there is no need to take things further, although he has had to inform social services. When they're left alone, Kylie bursts into tears and Becky holds her close, with the promise that this isn't the end...they will get Max back.

So what have we learned?
-Nick is expecting Natasha to crave pineapple pizza topped with jam and extra mozzarella.
-Mrs Ross is a lovely teacher, according to Simon
-The 5th September is an unlucky date. Phew! I came out of it relatively unscathed!
-Kylie makes Becky look like the Virgin Mary
-The Kabin's toy fire engines include blue flashing lights, giant ladders and an ear splitting siren but not squirting water.
-Little coins get on Kylie's nerves
-Claire and Becky both think they get the blame for everything
-Leanne had a crush on a girl when she was 13
-Ken only plumps cushions on special occasions
-There's nothing more romantic than a meeting of minds
-Natasha's not a rhinoceros
-Ken and Lawrence are both opinionated, bookish, sweet toothed philanderers
-Nobody ever carried Lawrence on their shoulders

Dubious Awards
Most polite way of admitting to being a serial cheat: "I never really adapted to monogamy" Lawrence
Understatement take one: "Truth be known, I'm not the best parent" Ken
Understatement take two: "Sophie and Sian have had a close friendship" Sally
Emptiest Gesture: "If there's anything I can do Kevin, let me know" Michelle about Sophie's disappearance. Like what!?
Person most on my wavelength: "I wish I could run away sometimes!" I wish you would, too Claire!
Most observant child: "You are so stupid!" Aadi to Dev. That bump on the head seems to have knocked a lot of sense into him!
Feminist supporter of the year: "There isn't a young woman around here who's normal!" Norris
Craziest visitor: "He said he'd like to come here!" Ken about Lawrence.
Lowest parental expectations: "You couldn't be a better mother if you tried!" Rita to Sally.

That's all for now!
More soon...

Duncan Lindsay


Monday 6 September

Written By Jayne Hollinson Directed by Tim Dowd

Kevin is still fuming at Dev's attitude. Rosie criticizes her parents about their attitudes about gays. Kevin says they aren't anything of the sort. Rosie suggests Sophie might have gone to Aunt Debbie's so Kevin calls his sister Wow, first mention of her in about 20 years! Maybe it's the first time he's called her in 20 years too, because she doesn't recognize his voice at first! No joy there, though. Rosie rolls her eyes when Kevin tells Debbie they ran away over a row and lays into him after he hangs up because he didn't tell Debbie the real reason, proving her point. He doesn't care what Sophie is as long as she comes back safe!

Tyrone is talking about how worried Kevin is to Molly who still doesn't look 9 months pregnant let alone 3 days overdue, apparently. She snaps at him when he suggests inviting them over for a visit. She's getting sick and tired of being pregnant and has enough to worry about without the Websters' crises. She hands him his butties for his lunch and sends him off to work. (I always wonder why he doesn't just walk across the street for his dinner?)

Ashley has his hands full with the boys (and Freddie is looking awfully grown up, almost as tall and old as Josh!) Graeme teases Josh that he'll play truant with him, much to Ash's annoyance. He shouts at the kids and then tells Graeme where and why Claire has gone. Graeme apologizes and takes the keys to go open up ahead of Ashley.

Liz is filling in Michelle in on Kylie's latest escapades, stealing Max away and having the police round to take him back. Michelle, of course, has nothing good to say about Kylie who is eavesdropping through the door. Michelle makes a disparaging remark about Kylie's non-parenting ability so Kylie comes out and confronts her. The pair of them snipe at each other. Michelle isn't sympathetic and Kylie launches at her again, stopped by Liz. Becky, who's come out and hears it all, warns Michelle to keep her beak out and goes back in to Kylie. Michelle and Liz have a giggled after they've all gone because Liz pretended to tell off Michelle.

In the garage, Tyrone is taking a call for a call out. Kevin loses his tempter at a reluctant bolt or something and fires a tool across the room. He takes a call on his mobile, seems someone that looks like Sophie has been spotted. He asks Tyrone to take the breakdown call out and he goes off into town to follow up.

Meanwhile Molly and her bump are having a cup of tea. She winces as there seems to be a pain. Is it??? Is it....?

In the butcher shop, Trevor is buying a fillet and planning to cook something for Carla. Graeme envies Trev. He's going out with Tina but both of them are living in "old folks' homes" which kind of puts the damper on things. Even Scrabble is exciting these days.

Ken has got the contact for (I think) his new grandson. He wants to help if he can, with the contention between Lawrence and his son James. Deirdre doesn't think it's a good idea. He's only known them all five minutes and they won't thank him for trying to run to the rescue. Ken thinks he should at least try and reminds Deirdre that she didn't mind him meeting Lawrence. Deirdre points out that was before she knew he was Ken's son let alone a grandson in the mix as well. She compares things to the Russian dolls, you keep opening them and there's always another inside! "Pretty soon there'll be a whole row of new Barlows all bobbing about, demanding attention!" Ken ignores her and decides to ring.

Becky finds Kylie in the back yard having a fag. She tells Kylie to ignore Michelle. Kylie says she heard that there's a court hearing next week that will decide whether Max will stay in care. She figures it's a done deal now that she broke the rules and she doesn't have anything to give her a reason for them to give Max back. Becky puts her arm around her and assures her that she's got her sister. Kylie says it's a few years too late.

Molly is doubled over by another pain, seems like it is happening! She breathes through it and looks excited. She grabs her handbag as the pain subsides and heads for the door. Outside, Kevin and Sally have returned and the sighting was not their child. Kevin hugs Sally to comfort her. She turns to go in to see if Rosie has had any more calls. Molly has got across to the garage off camera and approaches Kevin to find out why Tyrone is not at work. She loses her temper when she finds out Kevin has sent Tyrone out on a job when she's home ready to give birth any time. She accuses Kevin of doing it on purpose to wind her up. Duh. missing daughter? I'd mark her attitude down to hormones but she's been cranky towards Kevin for months. The pair of them argue. She says he's the one got her pregnant (I thought that was still up for debate?) but they shush when Sally comes back out and around but she knows they were arguing.

Kevin pretends it was just over him sending Tyrone off as Molly and her fake bump waddle back across the cobbles. She takes her mobile out to call Tyrone. His mobile rings in the cab of the breakdown truck but he's under the car he's gone out to service. Back on the street, Sally is just telling Kevin she'll have to make up the missed time from work when Sally notices Molly bent over in front of her door. They both run over. Sally helps Molly inside against her protestations and orders Kevin to call Tyrone again. Molly gives Kevin the evil eye as Sally opens the door.

After the break, we're back at the breakdown site. Tyrone is still got his head in the engine with the driver gunning the motor to test something. Again, the mobile rings unheard in the truck while Molly is panting through another contraction back at home. She refuses to go to the hospital until Tyrone gets here. Molly mouths off about it all being Kevin's fault. Sally does explain that Kevin had to deal with a Sophie sighting and nobody knew she was going to go into labour right then. Kevin keeps trying, Molly is still shouting for Tyrone and says she can manage on her own. Sally doesn't take any notice and tells about her kids' births, one in a taxi and one in hospital and tries to distract Molly's gasping with talk about baby names. She says that they'd have called a boy Dawson if they'd had one, which makes Kevin shudder! Wonder why!?

Trevor waits for Carla for lunch. She's a bit stroppy at first but he cheers her up with a kiss. He yawns and promises to cook her tea that evening. She teases him about the hours he works. He protests that he loves his job which is something she can't understand. THey walk towards the pub and discuss it. She figures he's bright and could do better such as work in the factory for her in the office! He laughs. Surely she jests!

In the Kabin, Sunita tells Anna that Aadi is coming home tomorrow. She commiserates about Anna's worries about Gary in the army. Graeme arrives and, as the conversation turns to whether they've discovered what happened to the lad, he makes a remark about people making unfounded accusations. Dev overhears it and calls him on it. Graeme accuses Dev of driving Claire away with their accusations. Dev instantly figures Claire is hiding something. (Just like he thought the very same about Sophie and Sian the day before! Make up your mind!) Graeme and Dev argue and Dev decides he needs to talk to Ashley. Sunita forbids it and says she'll handle it.

Molly is suffering the contractions but screams that she absolutely will not leave until Tyrone comes. (um, isn't' there a health centre not 30 yards down the road? Surely a doctor or nurse could be persuaded to come?) Out on the breakdown, buddy finally drives his car away and Tyrone finally hears the phone ringing. He kind of blanks at first when Kevin tells him Molly's in labour but then springs into action and says he's on his way. He fumbles with the keys and then drives off.

Sunita comes in to talk to Ashley who's not really in any mood for a civil conversation. She apologizes for upsetting Claire and says Dev was wrong for over reacting. They are only trying to find out what happened. Ashley accuses her of not trusting someone she thought of as a friend and throws her out of the shop. Seeing it's pointless talking to him, she leaves.

In the pub, Carla continues to try to convince Trevor to work for her. He thinks Nick would object and he doesn't know anything about office work. She promises to train him and then tries to guilt him into it. When that doesn't work, she drops the subject and gets up to go back to work. The look on his face may suggest that her arguments and guilt might have had an effect. Elsewhere in the pub, Anna is having lunch and is delighted when Gary and Quinny arrive as a surprise. The lads get drinks and Kylie immediately makes a beeline for them. They don't seem unpleased at the attention.

Tyrone drives around a corner and comes across a delivery van parked in the middle of the road (due to some roadworks at the side of the road). There's no room for the truck to get past. At home, Molly is in a lot of pain. Sally tries to help her breathe through the contraction. She's nearly hysterical and Sally thinks the baby might be ready to come. Where's Tyrone??!! Find out next part.

Tvor

So over to the mean streets of Weatherfield for another episode in the world's favourite Mancuian soap! Tonight it was written by Jayne Hollinson and directed by Tim Dowd and this update is courtesy of ITV productions and ITV player to all of whom many thanks.

We open at the Dobbs residence where Sally and Kev are with Molly Malone who is allegedly having her baby. Well her and Kev's actually - so he is standing there trying to look both disinterested and highly excited at the same time leaving all the hard work to Sally. Kev - run for the hills! Sally gets Molly onto the couch and the latter screams at Kev who is going to phone for an ambulance.

Tyrone is waiting for the delivery driver to unload his van on the one way system but who insists on unloading his van. Tyrone goes to move the van and there is a tussle between Ty and the driver. The driver gets the keys from Ty's van and throws them into a nearby garden and drives away. Ty cannot find the keys and is now the cause of a jam himself.

Ken is telling Emily about his new family and the new grandson he is going to meet today. Ken is only interested in his new family and does not want to discuss Simon or Peter. Ken reckons that his two sons will have nothing in common.

Kylie is chatting up Gary and his mate with a strange name. She is also over Gary when his mother comes in and calls her a hooker looking for business. Gary gets a telling off.

James, Ken's new grandson arrives and is introduced to Emily (the actor is in fact William Roache's younger son). James was expecting to meet the family and Emily departs to leave them to catch up. Emily seems troubled. James explains that he is not yet a successful musician and he also travels on the other bus - which is something Ken's son cannot accept. At which point Lawrence arrives and almost immediately there is friction. Ken gets them both to sit down and have a drink.

Becky is still thinking on Kylie's words and Liz re-assures her that she had to look after herself. Liz says Becky needs to support Kylie in the future and Becky observes that families are difficult; Becky is just not sure if Kylie likes her or not. According to Liz that is normal family stuff. Becky goes out front and explains to Kylie how they are going to get the baby back - housing - gives her a key and then says they have to find Kylie a job. Kylie is hardly overjoyed and goes back to talking to the squaddies.

Molly and Sally are both worked up, hours have gone by, there is no ambulance and no Ty either. Molly wants to push and it seems likely that a baby will arrive any moment now. Kev phones Ty who picks up and admits he has lost the keys. Kev tells him that Ty has to get there. Ty jumps in the pickup truck and we go to a commercial break.

At long last Ty puts his engineering knowledge to good use and decides to hot wire the pickup truck, just as a couple of Manchester's finest decide to investigate the lengthy traffic jam and obviously need to ask him what game he is playing.

At the factory Janice is doing office work and asks if someone can do some machine work for him. Trev appears and wants a few words with Carla. He offers to work his notice and join the office staff. Carla thinks this is a wonderful idea, but she talks him out of working his notice and Nick is not at all enamoured with the idea. Carla points out that she is a majority shareholder and can appoint whom she likes. She goes to show Trev round.

Dev is still having a go about Claire with Sunita and Becky comes to her defence. He responds by pointing out that Becky has no children of her own.

Lawrence and James are arguing about their inability to communicate and Ken is making no progress when Peter comes in and is introduced. Peter reckons his father has a lot of experience of family reunions and will not stay, although he hangs around for an orange juice and listens to the disharmony. He starts enjoying it and calls ken a serial philanderer - which is apparently how James sees his father Lawrence! He decides to join them. Peter explains about the mighty Barlow oak tree! Every few years Ken sows a few more seeds even if he does not watch them all grow up. Ken tries to defend himself - and Daniel is mentioned - he is now 15 years old if you can believe that!

Still no ambulance and Sally takes the phone to chase it up and leaves Kev and Molly together. She gives him what for - he is ruining the best day of her life. Molly goes on the floor to get comfortable and Sally starts telling Kev to move the table and to find some towels. Sal also gives Kev a telling off before he leaves them to it.

The police have found out that the truck is legit and Ty explains about the baby. They accept the story and deliver him back to the Street. he arrives and rushes into the living room as Sal catches the baby and then the paramedics arrive and we hear the baby boy cry for the first time. The baby is handed to "Dad" Ty and Kev can do nothing but look on.

Under manager Trev is being inducted but there is a lot scepticism around the factory. Jan catches Trev as he leaves and he feels he can do better for himself. Jan is unhappy that such a good prospect has escaped.

Kev paces around the hallway listening to Molly screaming in the living room.

Lawrence is lecturing his son on being conventional. Ken tries to reconcile the two sides of the disagreement. Apparently Lawrence is unhappy with having a gay son. He calls it spoiling things. James departs and Lawrence calls the situation impossible. Lawrence tells Ken to sort out his own problems and departs.

See you all next week.
K Richard W


Thursday 9 September

A very proud Tyrone is pushing his baby down the street in a buggy. He meets Leanne and Simon who stop and admire him. Leanne asks if they have a name for him yet. Tyrone says they have, but there's someone they have to tell first. Just then Ken comes along, and also asks what the baby's name is.

Across the Street, Nick and Natasha are passing. He asks her if she wants to go and have a look, but she says no. Nick remarks that when they get their pram it's going to be a better one, a designer label.

Tyrone walks on, and Ken and Leanne chat for a few moments about Simon, and how there seems to be something wrong but he won't talk about it. Ken suggests that Simon goes to them for his tea, he might be more willing to talk to his granddad.

In the Webster house, Sally sees Tyrone go by and remarks that the baby doesn't really look anything like him. Kevin is sitting with a 'Have you seen this girl?' poster featuring a photo of Sophie. He says he'll get lots of them run off and then go round putting them up all over the place. As she leaves the house, Sally turns and asks Kevin if he's going to pop round and see Molly and Tyrone's baby. Kevin mutters something about seeing if he has time.

Becky and Kylie are smoking out the back of the Rovers, and discussing the fact that Kylie needs a job in order to be able to impress the court. They know that there's no way Liz would take her on in the pub, and Becky wonders if there's anyone else they know who might give her a job.

Ken is on the phone to his son, Lawrence, with the sole aim of getting him together with James, Ken's grandson. He suggests that he calls round and they see if they can get James round as well. Deirdre listens in the background and shakes her head.

Sunita tells Dev she's been on the phone to Aadi's consultant who is pleased with the little boy's progress. Dev wants to know when they can go and fetch him home. Sunita says she's going later. Dev says he's coming too. Sunita wants to know who's going to run the shop, but Dev doesn't care.

Ken is ready to set off for Leeds. Deirdre remarks that Lawrence and James have managed perfectly well, running their own lives, up to now, but suddenly Ken seems to think they need him to sort things out. Ken says at least it will be nice to see Lawrence's home.

Becky asks Roy if he can find a job for Kylie, even if only for a few days so she can tell the court she's employed. Roy says he was just thinking that they could use another pair of hands round the place. He tells Kylie the two most important things are hygiene and politeness. "And three, how much are you paying?" asks Kylie. Roy tells her it's the going rate, £6.50 per hour. Kylie is disgusted and says she's not doing it for that. (I didn't think it was that bad, myself). Becky tells her she'll do it for Max. "So do you want the job or not?" asks Roy. Becky says she does. "Don't have much choice by the sound of it," mutters Kylie. "When can you start?" asks Roy. "Now!" says Becky, quickly.

Pam has called round to see Molly and Tyrone, and keeps asking embarrassing questions when she hears that Kevin was there when Molly was in labour. Molly mutters quietly that it's complicated, neither of them wanted it, so could she please be quiet? Just then there's a knock on the door and in walk Jack and Connie. Jack sits down and holds the baby, and then Tyrone tells him they're going to call him Jack. Jack senior is quite overcome with emotion, and thanks them. (We then see a close up shot of the baby, who opens his eyes and looks at Jack, and I have to say I think he looks much more like Tyrone than Kevin!)

An excited Dev is telling Leanne how they're about to go and bring Aadi home, when Sunita comes in and says that the hospital have called and they can't pick him up until later. Apparently it's all down to hospital procedure. Dev wonders if there's something wrong with Aadi, but Sunita says she asked twice and they assured her that he was fine. On the plus side, she says, they'll be able to pick up Asha from school and take her with them.

Kevin is in the Kabin buying sticky tape when Pam comes in and remarks how strange it was that Tyrone had been sent miles away and Kevin was on hand when Molly went into labour. Grasping her by the elbow, Kevin marches her to one side and hisses that it was the last thing he wanted, he plans to stay as far away from Molly and the baby as possible, but it's difficult because everyone keeps asking if he's been over to see him yet. Glaring at her, he pays for the tape and leaves.

Ken has arrived at Lawrence's house and they're standing out in his garden when James arrives. James is very much on the defensive, and when Laurence goes inside to make coffee Ken looks somewhat awkward.

Sally is visiting the new baby and Molly thanks her for her help with the birth. Sally says it makes her feel she has a special relationship with little Jack. Tyrone immediately asks her if she and Kevin will be godparents. Molly's mouth drops open as Sally hesitates awkwardly. Connie turns to Jack senior. "Did you hear that? Kevin and Sally are going to be godparents!" Molly stammers that Sally might need to check with Kevin and he might not want to. Sally says she's sure he'll feel the same as her, and they'd be delighted.

Ken, Lawrence and James are sitting round the table, discussing the fact that James is gay. Lawrence can't seem to accept his son for what he is, while Ken tries to act as peacemaker.

Nick and Natasha are in the café, Nick is chattering on excitedly about their baby, while Natasha looks uncomfortable. Kylie plonks two salads down in front of them. Nick asks for mayonnaise and is met with a blank stare. "Mayonnaise? Or salad cream?" he asks again. She sighs, raises her eyes to the heavens and stamps off. Roy gives her the mayonnaise bottle and suggests that when she takes it back to the table she smiles, and asks if everything is ok. She marches back to the table and with a forced, fake smile on her face asks if they want anything else. They say no.

Leanne arrives at Ken's house with Simon, expecting tea has promised. Deirdre tells her he's in Leeds, sorting out his other family. Deirdre is of the opinion that whatever their problems, they'll be a whole lot worse by the time Ken has finished with them. She gives Simon a biscuit and says he'll have to come back another day to see Ken.

Back in Leeds, the discussion is continuing. Lawrence argues that being gay is not natural, if he was like that James wouldn't exist. Ken tells James that his father obviously has very strong views. "Which you obviously don't share?" says Lawrence. Ken agrees that he doesn't. "You, Ken, are a true sister," says James, and leaves. Lawrence turns on Ken. "So that's what you came over for? To tell my son his father is a bigoted old fool?" Ken says he has to allow James to be himself. "No I don't," says Lawrence, "not if being himself means he doesn't have a normal life."

Back in Coronation Street, Kevin and Sally are worrying about Sophie. Then Sally tells Kevin that Tyrone and Molly have asked if they'll be godparents. "Tyrone AND Molly asked?" queries Kevin. Sally says that it was Tyrone who actually asked, but Molly seemed happy enough. The baby is to be called Jack - not a name she would have chosen - and she's accepted. She adds that she would have been annoyed if they'd asked anybody else. Kevin obviously isn't blown away by this news!

Sunita, Dev and Asha have arrived at the hospital, impatient to see Aadi. However, the consultant asks if they'll just take a seat and wait. Dev is irritated, they've been waiting all day. However, there's nothing they can do so they sit down. "Just ten minutes, and we'll be taking Aadi home," Sunita tells Asha. Dev unease grows. "There's something funny about this," he says, "there's something going on they don't want us to know about." Sunita tells him he's scaring her. "I'm scaring myself," he says.

Becky is in the cafe getting an update from Roy on how her sister is doing. He says she's not intimidated when dealing with the general public (understatement of the year) but he remembers someone else they had working there who was just like that. "Me you mean?" Becky raises her eyebrows. After a brief exchange with Norris on how long he can sit with a cup of tea, Kylie comes over, wanting to know what they're saying about her. Roy says he's been telling how impressed he's been with her. Kylie looks sceptical. "Honest?" Becky agrees that that is just what Roy was saying. Kylie looks stunned and goes off to wait on more tables.

Back in the hospital, a stunned Dev and Sunita are being told by a social worker and a police woman that both of their children are going to be taken into care until Aadi's head injury can be explained. Dev, obviously, is vehemently opposed to this idea, but is urged to remain calm for the sake of the children. Sunita wants to know what will happen if they can't find out how Aadi was injured, and is told there will be a risk assessment and then, hopefully, they'll be returned. Dev keeps insisting that this is not going to happen, and the children will be going home with them. "No they are not," snaps the policewoman. The social worker just keeps talking as if she hasn't heard Dev, saying that unless they can nominate a family member they have a very nice foster family ready, and do Dev and Sunita want to explain it all to the children, or shall she? Dev continues to argue until eventually Sunita says that they will explain it all to the children, as it will be better for them.

Kevin calls on Molly to say that he never intended to have anything to do with the baby. She agrees that was her plan too. "So what about you asking us to be godparents?" asks Kevin. Molly says it was Tyrone who asked. "What am I supposed to say about that?" Molly says he's supposed to say no, to think of an excuse. Kevin starts to say that he's made out to be the villain in all this, he's the one who's to be kept away - or better still, disappear from the face of the earth, that's what she would really like. Just then Tyrone comes in. "Come to have a look at baby Jack?" he beams at Kevin. Kevin says he has, and also has come to let them know about being godparents. Molly glares at him. "You're all right with it, aren't you?" asks Tyrone, "because there's no one else we'd rather have." Kevin forces a smile and says yes, they'd be delighted!

Anne Logan


Friday 10 September

Tyrone wakes to find Molly and baby in the sitting room. Tyrone suggests they take the baby to the Rovers later today. She's tired but he says he can do it.

Dev's leaving a message for his solicitor and Sunita's in tears. Dev promises they'll get the twins back.

Simon doesn't want to go to school and tells Leanne it's boring. She points out that it's the law that he go to school.

Kylie's driving Liz crazy banging her spoon on her cup. She's pessimistic about her chances in court but Becky promises they'll get Max back. Becky tells her to get dressed so they can go and see Max and bring him home.

Dev's solicitor has called back but this isn't their area of expertise. Dev's been urged to stay calm but Sunita doesn't think they can be calm. "My kids should be here!" She's going to the shop to take her mind off things. She leaves Dev to get the twins back.

Rosie answers the phone to a call from Sophie. She's in a phone box, calling to let everyone know she and Sian are OK. Rosie tells her she has to come home but Sophie hangs up. It looks as if she's in a not-very-nice area.

A chirpy, chatty Lloyd arrives at Dev's door with Russ, only to be told the children have been taken into care. Dev is close to tears and shuts the door without saying more.

Kevin's yelling at Rosie for not calling him. Poor Rosie tries to explain how short the conversation was and cross-examines her about whether she got any clues as to where Sophie was.

In the street, Simon and Russ play as Lloyd tells Cheryl about Dev's kids. Simon overhears and tries to run away. Russ grabs him and they start to fight, only to be stopped by Lloyd.

Sunita's in the shop telling Leanne all about it. Sunita knows Social Services will make mistakes. Cheryl comes in with Simon and tells Leanne there's been "an incident" and a bit of fighting. Leanne thinks Simon might be scared of Russ. Leanne and Cheryl start to argue over which boy is the bully. Sunita stops them and says she'd like to row about her kids but they've been taken away from her. Cheryl stomps off, telling Leanne to keep Simon away from her son.

Deirdre hangs up the phone and tells Ken what Leanne's said about Simon being bullied. Ken seems very distracted. He's thinking about Lawrence and James. "Why? Are they being bullied?" Deirdre tells him they're not his responsibility. There's a knock at the door. It's Lawrence.

At the foster home Becky and Kylie greet Max and are introduced to Helen, Max's children's guardian - someone independent from the courts and from social services. It's her job to protect Max's interest. She will prepare a report and speak for Max at the hearing. Becky makes sure Helen noted the way Max ran to his mother when they arrived.

Leanne's trying to talk to Simon to work out what's wrong. He wants to know if he's in trouble. He's not but Leanne says they know he's worried about something. She asks if he's frightened and he nods. Leanne sends him to play in his room and calls Peter, saying he'd better come home.

In the office, Trevor's proving he's not a natural computer user. Carla is very patient but Nick snipes that they tested the software on monkeys and it only took them ten minutes to master it. He's off to a meeting and makes a sarcastic comment which riles Trevor. "I'm doing my best," Trevor says. "Mmm, that's the sad part," agrees Nick.

Kylie plays with Max while Becky talks to Helen. She tries to persuade her that Kylie's turned her life round. Helen looks at her watch and tells Kylie to wrap things up. She's been here an hour. Becky says goodbye to Max in a loving and fun way that shows her to be a far more natural mum than Kylie.

Izzy zooms past Garry Windass without seeing him. She tells him it must have been his brilliant camouflage. He asks what she's doing tonight and they agree they might see each other in the Rovers. His pal comes out of the cafe and teases Garry about fancying a girl in a wheelchair. Garry denies it but they both know it reminds them of the pal's brother.

Tyrone and Kevin are at the garage, talking about Sophie. Nick drives up to the factory and Tyrone invites him to come along and wet the baby's head.

In the shop, Sunita's on the phone about an order, Kylie comes in and secretes a bottle of spirits under her cardigan without being seen. Is this the last corner shop in the UK without CCTV? Dev comes in and she says she's just browsing. Dev tells Sunita about the rules around visiting the kids. Sunita doesn't care what hoops they have to jump through as long as they get the kids back. "We'll do anything they want, answer any questions they ask and eventually they'll see the truth and we'll get our kids back." Kylie has meanwhile asked the price of biscuits, called it daylight robbery and left.

Outside she calls to Garry and asks if he wants to help drink the Vodka she's nicked. He agrees to meet her later.

Lloyd's in the pub telling Liz that anyone knows Dev wouldn't hurt the kids. Liz reminds him that he gave John Stape a job while John had a teenage girl locked in his attic. Fair point. In a booth, Carla's warning Nick to stop winding up Trev or he'll get thumped. Trevor comes in. He's going back to work on the spreadsheets again. Nick just thanks him politely.

Lawrence wonders what Ken's asked him round for and Ken says he wants to help Lawrence and James. Lawrence doesn't think there's anything to be done. He's gone as far as he can with James. "The reason I'm here is to tell you to stop, OK? Leave it." Ken thinks they both want a proper relationship. Lawrence thinks James is deliberately forcing him into confrontation. He admits he's a homophobe. Ken wants to help. "And I want you to mind your own business." Ken tries to compare it to his relationship to his alcoholic son but Lawrence will have none of it. "Does he sleep with men? Does he kiss men in your presence? Does he rub your nose in it?" He says he won't be bullied into accepting the unacceptable. Ken says being gay isn't unacceptable. Lawrence says it is to him. Ken tells him to get out. Lawrence gives a wry chuckle. He points out that Ken found him and now he's sending him away because he doesn't like his views. "Does that sound familiar?" Ken says he would love Peter no matter what he was, even if he was gay. Lawrence wonders how far that would extend. What if Peter were a drug dealer or a murderer. "Where's your trigger, Ken?" Ken shouts, "You've already found it! Now get out!" A speechless Lawrence gets up to leave.

Molly's gone to see Kevin. He tells her he will not be baby Jack's godfather. Sometimes you have to grit your teeth and accept things, he tells her. They're interrupted by Rosie and Molly leaves.

Peter's home and sits Simon down for a talk. He says if Russ is bullying him then they need to do something about it. Simon protests that he's not. Nobody's bullying him. Peter says Leanne's worried sick. He demands an answer. A tearful Simon tries to go but Peter holds him back. "I'm sorry," sniffs Simon. "I never thought I'd get in trouble. I thought he was OK." Peter tells him to slow down. Then the story comes out. He confesses to pushing Aadi. "He was a bit woozy for a while, then he was OK. I never thought he'd end up in hospital." He sobs that it's all his fault that the twins have been taken away. "I'm in big trouble, aren't I?" cries Simon. "Will I have to go to jail?" Peter sweeps him into his arms.

Sniff.
The end of the first episode.
Margaret Carr

Kevin is asking Rosie about her phone call with Sophie but she gave nothing away. Rosie changes the subject and asks why he and Molly were arguing. She figures out, incorrectly, that the fight was over the fact Tyrone was on call when she went into labour.

Liz and Becky are discussing Kylie's chances at the court hearing. Liz isn't hopeful and she reminds Becky that there is a reason Kylie had Max taken off of her in the first place.

Peter is telling Simon that he is proud of him for being brave at the police station. Simon is worried that everyone will be angry at him. Peter agrees that he has a lot of apologies to make.

Sunita is telling Dev to pull himself together as they will be seeing the children soon. She is confident that they will get them back once the investigation finishes but Dev is less than assured.

Kylie and Gary meet up in a back alley before heading away somewhere to get smashed.

Ken is still trying to recover from Lawrence's outbursts. He starts blaming himself but Deirdre reminds him that he didn't bring him up. James calls round and Deirdre invites him in.

Kirk is holding baby Jack as Nick and Tyrone look on fondly. Tyrone tells Nick it'll be him next.

Liz tells Izzy that she looks nice but Izzy snaps her head off, asking her if she looks like a tramp normally. Liz tells her she was just trying to pay her a compliment.

At the bar, Jack asks Tyrone to promise that when he gives him something, he will accept. Tyrone eventually agrees and Jack hands him a cheque for £5000 before reminding him that he promised.

Ken is asking James where Lawrence's attitude came from. James admits that he initially tried to shock his dad but there has been a lot of time since to make up but it's easier just to stay apart. Ken looks sad about this but James says he has gained a grandfather so he's glad.

Mary arrives at the Rovers in her camper van and doesn't realise that she has dropped her keys on the road.

Peter calls round to Dev and Sunita's and tells them that Simon was responsible for Aadi's injury. Dev breaks down and asks Peter if he has any idea what they've been through. Sunita gets on the phone to social services to see if the children can come home.

Tyrone tells Jack that he is going to spend the money on his new baby. Jack tells him to spend it on whatever he likes.

Mary thinks that Izzy looks lonely, and forces Norris to come with her and sit beside her. Izzy is less than impressed.

Sunita and Dev are the picture of joy as they are reunited with their children.

Leanne has called round to apologise to Cheryl and admits she was very much in the wrong. Cheryl accepts the apology.

Nick asks to hold baby Jack. Gail simpers that he will make a great father. Natasha rushes to the bathroom, blaming the pregnancy. Gail asks Nick if she can have a copy of the scan

Izzy repeatedly asks Mary to go away. Mary tells her she appreciates her harsh honesty…but doesn't move.

Sunita catches up to Ashley and tells him what really happened with Aadi. She says she is truly sorry for everything she said. Ashley isn't really won over and tells her that the accusations were unforgiveable.

Natasha asks Fiz if she can borrow a copy of the baby scan but Fiz refuses.

Ashley has called round to Peter's and is ranting at him, saying he should learn to communicate with his kids. Peter holds up his hands and says he is really sorry. Ken interrupts the argument and after Ashley goes, he offers to stay and listen to the full story if Peter needs to talk.

Natasha is downloading a picture of a baby scan from the internet.

Kylie and Gary are all over eachother in their alley. Gary crosses the road to see if his house is empty. Kylie spots Mary's keys on the road beside the camper van.

Claire comes home and Ashley and the kids are delighted to see her. Ashley tells her that the truth has come out.

Kylie tells Gary to get into the camper van and assures him Mary said she could borrow it. As the speed away, Mary comes out and screams after them to come back.

Claire tells Ashley that she has been doing some thinking. She can't live round here anymore and thinks they need a fresh start…they're moving away…and that's final!

So what have we learned?
-It's not hard to trick Tyrone
-Mary uses the word diffabled to mean differently abled.
-You should always specify a time for a meeting
-Mary drinks blue concotions in the Rovers
-Natasha gets all her baby scan downloads from www.babyscans4u.com
-Simon will be saying sorry a lot
-Drinking isn't wise
-Kylie kisses while having a mouthful of chips
-There are some things even the great Ken Barlow can't sort
-You can't argue with a bigot

Dubious Awards
Most inaccurate multi-choice question: "Am I right or am I right?" Rosie
Most laughable statement: "My private education wasn't wasted!" Rosie
Most agreeable statement: "Let's hope she's a different person in that court" Liz about Kylie.
Scientist of the year: "You've got to eat" Liz
Most vague statement: "She loves that boy" Becky about Kylie and what could be half of Weatherfield.
Least surprising news: "It doesn't stop me from getting angry" Dev about good news. Does anything?
Double take moment: "It's not your fault" Deirdre to Ken, believe it or not
Most wistful thought: "You might not have met me!" Deirdre to Ken
Most terrifying thought: "Me and Julie discussed having kids!" Kirk
Blindest baby: "I think he likes me" Kirk about Jack Junior
Shortest Memory: "Your son's put me through the worst nightmare I've ever had!" Dev. Worse than having your empire torched and being trapped in a burning building or…even worse waking up beside Deirdre?
Most appealing thought: "We shall disappear into the night!" Mary about herself and Norris
Most risky opportunity for honesty: "Do I look like the kind of girl who does it in a shed?" Kylie

More soon!
Duncan Lindsay


Monday 13 September

Written By Jonathan Harvey Directed by Tony Prescott

It's the morning after. Kylie's phone wakes her and Gary up. The motor home is parked under a bridge somewhere. Gary starts to put his shirt on and she manages to seduce him back under the duvet for one more go. He doesn't take much persuading.

Back at the pub, Becky is frantic because Kylie has not come home all night. Liz is more interested in caffeine and nicotine. The court hearing is today and Becky is worried.

Sunita hurries Asha along who wants to stay home from school like Aadi. Dev bribes her with a trip to the movies later on and that works. Sunita is going to go apologize to Claire later if she'll let her. Dev wants to go with her but Sunita figures it's better to do it on her own.

Ashley is having trouble getting the boys out the door for school, too. He questions her decision to move away but she is insistent. Too many bad memories. Done deal.

Pam and Kevin meet at the Dobbs' front door. They trade insults. Tyrone opens the door and we can hear the baby crying. Pam goes upstairs to Molly and the baby with a cuddly bunny. Kevin asks Tyrone to open up as he is going to look for Sophie.

The motor home is returned and parked around the corner of the Kabin. Kylie and Gary get out and head down the road. She brags about how her mother used to be so good at shoplifting. She wants to go to his place and get drunk. Izzy sees them and calls over, wondering where Gary was last night. Kylie drapes herself over Gary. Point. Izzy goes off scowling, Katy at her side. Gary is uncomfortable and brushes Kylie off. Kylie ignores her phone.

Katy runs over to see Chesney who's got Schmeichel with him. She offers to bunk off school and go to the market with him. She manages to persuade Ches into agreeing and keep it from her dad as well.

Mary has stayed over at Emily's and is apologizing to Norris because her hot water bottle has burst and wet the camp bed. She thanks him for offering her a roof. He said it's only a "wet zed bed in Mrs. Bishop's parlour". She thinks they could share his bed, sleeping top to toe but he is most definitely not up for that. She worries because she's homeless and doesn't think the police are going to be too lucky finding the motor home. A car passes but can't get down the side street because... you got it, the motor home is there. Norris sees this and tells Mary who's over the moon! So is Norris!

Becky is outside, frantic and in a high panic. Liz is trying to calm her down. Becky says that this court case is Kylie's last chance to get her son back. Liz wonders if it's more important for Becky or Kylie who pops out of the corner shop and sees them so ducks back out of view. Where is she!! Well, she has a bottle of vodka under her arm and is ringing Gary's doorbell.

Gary is dismayed as she bounces into the room, ready to party. She adds voddy to a tin of beer and declines another call from Becky. Kylie reckons she can give Gary a good time before he has to go back. Anna arrives and looks down at her nose at Kylie for offering him booze for breakfast. She brags that Gary was with her last night. Anna is less than impressed when Kylie takes advantage and goes upstairs to use the shower just as Quinny arrives. She likes Quinny, does Anna. She takes their picture on her phone to keep.

Outside, Peter and Simon meet up with Dev and Aadi who are a bit quiet. Simon returns the toy to Aadi that he'd taken off him that caused the tussle and injury. Dev doesn't really say much and it seems that's all it takes for the boys to be friends again.

Mary is upset that someone has been sleeping in her bed. She says that the police just see her as a faceless victim. He tries to placate her, saying she's got it back at least. He can't handle it when he bursts into tears as Anna walks by and says good morning.

Quinny and Gary crack open beers. Gary asks Quinny to be the one to tell his parents if something happens to him and he agrees to do the same for him. Kylie comes down in a towel and turns on the music as she necks vodka right from the bottle. She's well into the party mode but Gary doesn't really seem like he's all that happy about it.

Katie is enjoying being on the market with Chesney.

Becky is in the pub, on eggshells. Steve commiserates. Becky relates how their mother was not a proper mother and says all she wanted was a real family. Steve suggests she get changed, there's still a chance Kylie could show up. Becky doesn't think it's going to happen.

Norris scowls at the loud music coming out of the Windasses. Kylie's phone keeps going off and is ignored. She pours herself all over Gary who doesn't look to be enjoying it and Quinny says he should probably go soon.

Across the road, Steve is telling his mother how upset Becky is. Liz is ticked off that Kylie is running them all ragged. Steve says Kylie and Becky never had anything growing up but that doesn't wash with Liz. She was poor as well but she did have pride. Steve is more worried for Becky. He asks Liz to give Kylie a break in front of Becky. Steve admits that he didn't really appreciate that he had a very good family and leans over to kiss his mum on the cheek.

Kylie tells Chesney that since her dad is taking over the builder's yard, she and her dad will be moving into the flat! Chesney is delighted! She says it's just her and her dad, her mother having left then years ago because she couldn't cope with Izzy (or maybe Owen's temper?).

Molly has got the baby to sleep. Pam is fixing bottles for her. Pam brings up the baby's parentage. She relates how she watches Jeremy Kyle and sees those couples that tear each other to pieces on national telly, with DNA tests involved and wonders how people can live like that. She tells Molly that she's messing with people's hearts. Molly tells her that Jack gave them 5 thousand for the baby.

Claire suggests Birmingham as a place they could move to. Ashley laughs and says he doesn't want their kids talking funny. Pot, Kettle, Claire points out! Just a thought. How about Scotland? She's all excited. The doorbell rings and Ashley lets Sunita in. She asks if she'd like to go for a coffee or tea. Claire rips into her but Sunita says she wanted to apologize. Claire isn't having it. Sunita is really sincere but Claire feels stuck by the stigma of mental illness, thanks to them. Sunita tries to make her see that nobody thinks she's ill but Claire insists she's not anyway but people think it never leaves you. She says she's leaving so people don't have anyone to talk about. It's clear the apology isn't accepted and Sunita leaves.

Becky is changed and Steve has managed to get the hearing rescheduled for a bit later. Becky has a plan and she thinks she could impersonate Kylie. Max belongs there with them and she isn't going to let him down. Liz and Steve figures that's not going to work. Becky figures she's got nothing to lose!

Will she go through with it? Stay tuned.

Tvor

Good evening, events tonight in Weatherfield were written by Mark Wadlow and directed by Tony Prescott. This is an ITV Productions production to whom many thanks for providing us with the Street.

We open in the Peacock household where Claire is telling Ashley how her recent treatment at the hands of their friends and neighbours had been completely unacceptable. How she was dropped like a hot brick and they turned against her. They did not give her the benefit of the doubt. Ashley tries to explain but gets nowhere and she makes it clear that they will soon be moving.

Along at the Rovers Becky is trying to turn herself into Kylie as she wants to impersonate her sister in court. Hereafter I shall refer to Becky as "Dannii" on the grounds that is Kylie's sister's name. Liz believes that someone will know she is not the right sister. Becky just wants to get Max home. Dannii thinks that Kylie wants to be a good mother. Steve says Dannii is going too far. She breaks down, until Izzy points out that she with Gary a couple of hours earlier. Dannii dashes across to the Windass residence and getting no answer barges in through the back door. Dannii grabs Kylie and breaks the news to Gary that his girlfriend is a mother. Point made Dannii departs.

Mary is cleaning the motor home and finds a hair in the sheets. Evidence! She goes to the shop and shows Doris that the culprit is a red head. Mary has already decided that Mick Hucknall and Chris Evans (she even had to explain that to Doris) are not responsible and Doris says that it was not Rita. Which only leaves a prime suspect. Mary wants closure and wants to know who was responsible. They agree that Gary is an obvious candidate.

In the cab office Cheryl is telling LLoyd that she is not sure if Leanne is such a good friend after all. Claire comes in and tells Lloyd that she will serve her notice - but she is leaving.

Kylie admits to Dannii that she does not want her son back. Dannii is stunned - but Kylie admits she is a useless mother, far too selfish and he will be better off without her. Kylie does not want to admit that she is a failure as a mother - but she was avoiding the court case. Dannii starts knocking some sense into her sister and Kylie admits she loves her son. Kylie and Dannii have 20 minutes to get to court.

After the break we are in the courtroom where Weatherfield County Council are applying for a residential care order for Max Turner currently with foster parents. The mother opposes the care order but is not present. They ask for the case to proceed without the mother when suddenly Dannii and Kylie burst in.

In the Rovers Norris and Mary are discussing Gary and as he arrives in the Rovers they watch him very closely. He sits down with Izzy who is cold with him for not turning up the previous evening. He gives up.

The adulterous headmaster's husband from Waterloo Road who is currently appearing as a builder in the Street called Owen and I am getting very confused by this double booking. Anyway his daughter has bunked off school and he is looking for her in Roy's Rolls. Not the most likely place. Anyway when Liz comes in they have a chance for a chat. He offers to take her one night and she accepts.

The case is going well and Dannii is asked to address the court. Kylie also thanks her sister for all that she has done. Kylie knows she has to change.

In the Rovers some idiot calls Izzy names and Gary springs to her defence. Liz immediately orders the idiot out of the pub.

Eileen is planning Owen's seduction when Dannii and Kylie arrive back from court with Max - they have won! Kylie tries to talk Dannii into a party - but she wants to get her hands on Gary. Scary Mary is watching the two of them - she has her suspicions.

Ashley and Claire discuss their situation again and she makes it entirely clear that they are moving!

Dannii is now looking after Max so she has made him a hot dog to celebrate. Both Dannii and Steve seem keener on having Max in the house than Kylie does. Steve returns to the Rovers and almost orders Kylie to go upstairs and look after Max. Steve is not fooled and he does want Kylie letting down Dannii.

Scary Mary challenges Gary and take a hair from his head - whilst she is not going to go to the police her knowledge is power.

Gary leaves the pub and the name calling idiot from earlier is waiting for him with his mate. They exchange comments and then insults and eventually Gary sets about the idiot. He knocks the idiot out and then Kirk arrives and tells Gary and his mate to get going - he will call an ambulance.

See you next week.
K Richard W


Thursday 16 September

Breakfast time in the MacDonald household. Kylie sits at the table with Amy and Max. "Shouldn't you be at Roy's?" asks Liz. Kylie says that was just for the benefit of the court. Liz points out that Becky put herself out to get her the job and if Roy's expecting her she should get herself down there. Kylie says she thought it was all about her and Max being a family. "It's about you proving you're responsible," says Liz, and assures her that Max will be fine with herself and Becky. Sighing deeply, Kylie goes.

Claire arrives back home as Ashley is on his way to work. She says she's sorry she didn't tell him earlier about handing her notice in, it just sort of happened. He tells her that everybody knows she didn't harm Aadi, and no one is bothered anyway. She asks if he's told Graeme. "Told him what?" asks Ashley. "About selling the shop, he does have a right to know." Ashley tells her he'll tell Graeme when he needs to know - not after, like her.

Kirk goes to see Gary and tells him that he called an ambulance for the lad he had a fight with. Gary asks if he was badly hurt. Kirk says that he was able to get into the ambulance by himself, so Gary reckons he couldn't have been all that bad. "Did they teach you to fight like that in the army?" asks Kirk. "No," says Gary, "the estate where I grew up, worse than Afghanistan that was."

Kylie is at work in the café, but talking on her mobile phone. She plonks a plate down in front of Eileen and ignores Graeme who's asking for more milk in his coffee. Roy eventually manages to get her attention and hands her a wage packet, urging her to put the phone away. Kylie opens her wage packet and stares in disbelief. "Am I being paid in instalments?" she asks. Roy explains that at the moment she's on emergency tax, and of course national insurance has been deducted. Kylie reckons it's hardly worth the bother. She brightens up a bit when Roy hands her her share of the tips, but is quickly disappointed when she sees how little she's got. Graeme starts to talk about the tips he gets as a window cleaner. "Tell someone who cares!" Kylie interrupts, rudely. Eileen remarks that she's surprised she gets any tips with that attitude. Kylie retorts that she's surprised Eileen gets served with the face on her!

The police arrive in Coronation Street and ask Liz who's outside cleaning the windows if she knows anything about a fight that happened outside the Rovers. She tells them it might be worth them talking to Gary Windass as he had an argument with a lad in the pub earlier.

As they go off across the Street, Owen pulls up in his van. He asks her to tell him when she gets a night off, so they can go out. She suggests he calls in for a drink this evening, but he says he's working - admin.

The police have arrived at the Windass's house and decide to take Gary down to the station for questioning. As they walk to the car, Anna runs after them. "You do know he's off to fight for his country, don't you?" she says. "Pity he didn't wait till he got there," says one of the policemen. As they put Gary into the car, Izzy and Kirk appear. She wants to know if it's true about the fight. "It'll be a mistake, eh Kirk?" says Gary's friend. "Yeah, a mistake," mutters Kirk.

Becky is in the café showing her sister a lot of new clothes she's bought for Max. Kylie, however, being a very selfish individual, isn't happy about it. "I've never been able to buy him stuff like that," she moans, "he's going to think you're the best thing since sliced bread, and I'm just the person who shouts at him for being naughty."

Kevin is sitting in the café with a cuppa and the newspaper. Claire sits down at his table and asks if he has any news of Sophie. She says she's sorry if she's the cause of Sophie and Sian running off. Kevin tells her she wasn't the only one calling names and pointing fingers. He's sure that what was said to her must have hurt, especially with it being rubbish. Claire agrees that it did. Kevin says that when it's all over and things get back to normal he's sure they'll get back to being friends.

Sean flounces into the taxi office and whinges to Eileen that her sister, Julie has let him down - they were going to go to the cinema. "While you're having the time of your life," he says. Eileen grins. "Who says you can't mix business with pleasure?" For her session of office work with Owen she has bought a bottle of wine with plastic cups, and a packet of crisps.

The police are interviewing Gary. The lad who ended up in hospital has given a description of his assailant. Someone of Gary's height, wiry and with ginger hair. "Oh, you've brought me in for being ginger?" says Gary, and claims the lad was concussed and confused. The police suggest putting him in a line up. The injured lad claims they argued about a woman in a wheelchair. "Was that her we passed when we were bringing you in?" Gary insists there was no row, he just had a quiet drink, but the police aren't convinced.

Kylie tells Becky that she's being made to feel like a charity case. Becky points out that she, Steve and Liz are just trying to help her. Kylie admits that she was so convinced the court wouldn't let her keep Max she didn't think it was worth making an effort. "Look what happens when you do," says Becky. Kylie reckons it was all down to Becky, and she's not used to things going right.

Anna Windass is fretting about Gary. She wonders if he's ok, have they charged him? Does he need a solicitor? Gary's friend Quinny tells her that Gary's not daft, if he needs a solicitor he'll get one, and besides the only witnesses were himself and Kirk. "So something did happen?" asks Anna. Quinny tells her the other lad started it. Just then Gary comes home and tells them he has to go back again tomorrow. Anna tells him she knows he did it. Gary points out that she can't be that upset about it, if he gets done for it his army career is over. Anna tells him she didn't want it like this, no chance of a decent job. "That's what I always dreamed of for my only son!"

Izzy and Kirk are talking in the pub. Izzy is cross because the fight was about her. "Six months in a wheelchair and you've heard it all," she says, "after that it's water off a duck's back." She tells Kirk that if anyone asks there was no argument, nothing happened. "What he did was stupid, what he did was wrong, but it's not going to help him, sending him to gaol."

Nick comes into the pub, clutching a teddy bear. He asks Liz if she'd like to see the scan picture again. She tells him that if it's not your own baby, once is more than enough. Just then Natasha comes in. Nick remarks that the scan picture looks slightly different to him. She tells him that he's going to scare people away if every time they meet him they see him reaching for his inside pocket. Liz says that it'll be time for another scan soon and they might even be able to tell the sex. Natasha smiles nervously.

Eileen and Owen are ploughing through reams of paperwork. Eileen suggests a break and produces the bottle of wine and the plastic cups. As they pour it out Owen's phone rings - it's Liz . Owen then pretends it's a call from someone with an emergency situation that needs immediate attention and says he'll be right round. Telling a disappointed Eileen he has to go, but she has plenty to keep her busy, he rushes off to the pub!

In the Rovers, Liz and Becky ask Kylie to read Max and Amy a bedtime story. Kylie pulls a face and wonders why they can't just stick a dvd on. Liz insists, they always read Amy a bedtime story, she says, it's so much better than just sticking kids in front of telly.

Just then Owen walks in and Liz rushes to serve him. She asks what their strange telephone conversation was about, and he explains about Eileen. He didn't think she'd be too pleased to think he was coming to see Liz. So Liz decides it would be better if they go through to the back.

Nick and Natasha are at the bar. Becky asks if they want another drink, but Natasha says there's only so much fizzy water she can drink. She tells Nick she'd like an early night. "Tired?" asks Nick. "No!" says Natasha. "Too much information!" says Becky.

As they walk off down the Street, Nick says he's been thinking. He doesn't want his child brought up in someone else's flat, he thinks they should buy somewhere for their family. Natasha looks at him, beaming, with love in her eyes. "What do you think?" asks Nick. "I think I love you," says Natasha, kissing him.

Eileen lets herself out of the builder's yard and meets Sean. She explains why she's on her way home, Owen had an emergency call out. Sean wants to know if she managed to get anywhere with him. "Well, he patted me on the shoulder when he left," sighs Eileen.

In the back room of the pub, Liz asks Owen if there's anything more than business between himself and Eileen. He says that it's just business as far as he's concerned, but he's pretty sure Eileen would like more. "She's a lovely woman, just not my type," he says. "So what is your type?" asks Liz. "Got a mirror handy?" asks Owen, laughing.

Ashley is massaging Claire's feet. He says he's glad she and Kevin have made up. Claire sits up suddenly. "If you're building up to saying that now we don't need to move, don't waste your breath," she says, adding that when they were first married everything was great, but it's never been as good since. She says that selling No. 4 was a big mistake. Ashley reminds her that it was her idea. "And it was a bad one," she says. "Every day I have to look out of my front door and look across at my lovely house with gardens and a conservatory - Sally's conservatory….." She sighs. Ashley tells her she means more to him than any house, so they'll do it, they'll put the house on the market. She hugs him.

In the bar of the Rovers, Kylie bids Steve and Becky goodnight, saying she'll get the kids up in the morning. After she's gone, Steve asks if she's really going to get Amy ready for school. Becky says she's going to get up too. She tells Steve she's had a chat with Kylie and she's really mixed up, that's why she kicks off. She knows where she stands if everything's going down the pan. She reminds him that she, Becky, has been known to self-destruct on occasion. "You? Never!" says Steve, as Becky winds her arms round his neck. Becky says it's important and Kylie knows they're there for her. "Well we are," says Steve. Becky asks if he'd like her to show how grateful she is, and he picks her up and carries her off!

Gary and his friend are discussing Gary's predicament. Quinny is sure he'll be fine, but Gary's not so sure.

With the bar area empty, Kylie comes sneaking downstairs. She heads straight for the till, but as she gets there Liz and Owen come out of the living room. She ducks down behind the bar as Liz lets him out of the front door. As she goes back into the living room, Kylie jumps up, runs to the till and grabs a handful of notes, she then ducks back down on the other side of the bar. Liz comes back out, takes the cash drawer out of the till and goes off upstairs. Kylie comes out from her hiding place and follows her back upstairs.

Anne Logan


Friday 17 September

Here we are with another first Friday episode. I hope everyone's had as fine a weekend as it's been here and that all you Canadians are enjoying Thanksgiving. And I'm sure you'd all like to congratulate Andy Whyment (Kirk) on the birth of his new daughter.

Now, on with the show.

We open in the back of the pub where Owen (fully dressed) tells Liz (blue satin dressing gown) he only came round for his mobile. She gives him a white-bread bacon sandwich but before they have time to say much more Becky, a grumpy Kylie and Max and Amy come downstairs. Owen and Liz sit silently amid the chaos and when Becky says something Owen tells her he just came round for his mobile. She doesn't believe him.

He and Liz go out into the ginnel to say goodbye and he says he really enjoyed last night. So did Liz, but she says she'll have to say something to Eileen, though Owen doesn't think this is necessary. Owen gives her a lingering kiss goodbye which is (of course!) seen by Sean as he brings out some rubbish.

Audrey and Natasha enter the salon with Audrey wittering on about the kind of baby Nick was as a tearful Natasha puts the kettle on.

Liz is looking at the cash and there's definitely fifty pounds missing. As she discusses it with Ciaran, Betty seems asleep in one of the booths and a hard-faced Kylie listens before bouncing through cheerfully saying she's going into town and asking if they want anything. Becky's taken Max to the park. Betty is awake and asks Kylie to get any two-for-one bath roam with jasmine in it if she sees it. Liz plans to call a staff meeting about the missing money. "Forty-one years I've worked in this place and I've never been accused of stealing!" steams an angry Betty.

In the cafe, Anna's grumpy as she serves Eileen. Sean comes in and Eileen tells him she's just seen a very cheerful Owen. She says she's seeing him again tonight because she's doing the books. Something in Sean's face prompts her to ask if he's all right. Sean says he's on top of the world. Anna's so grumpy she practically throws the change at Eileen as Garry and his mate come in. Turns out Anna is grumpy because Garry's supposed to have self control and she's angry at him thumping someone. His mate (you're right, I can't remember his name) says Garry was only sticking up for his bird. Anna thinks he means Kylie but Sean explains it was Izzy. That's news to Anna.

Carla's in the factory office, trying to persuade someone to give them another order as an anxious Nick listens. She hangs up and tells Trev to send a confirmation e-mail. Trev has trouble and Nick is very very sarcastic to him.

In the cafe, Roy gives Kylie her roster and she moans about them starting early. Becky and Roy talk about taking Max to the park. Anna warns them the trouble starts when the kids grow up. Becky teases Max about wanting to be a pirate when he grows up. Anna can't take it any more and dashes out the back in tears. Roy explains that Garry has to report to the police station this afternoon.

Kylie's outside the cafe waiting. She tells Becky she got her something in town. Becky tells her off but Becky says it's to thank her. Becky is touched.

In the pub, Nick and Natasha are in a booth with Gail and Audrey. Gail comments that Natasha's hardly showing at all yet. "Nobody'd know you were pregnant to look at you. How many weeks are you?" she asks. Natasha says she's not feeling well and leaves. Nick tells his mother to stop going on.

Behind the bar, Betty's still grumpy even though Liz tells her she's not being accused. Becky and Kylie and Max come in and as Liz asks Becky if she took money from the till, Kylie gives Betty her bath foam and tells her not to worry about payment (why is nobody suspicious of this?). Kylie takes Max through the back as Liz tells Becky about the missing money. Steve comes in and Becky tells him Liz thinks Kylie's taking money. Betty ignores all this. "I'd storm out, if I had the energy!" she says. Liz tells Becky the timing of the money going missing is suspicious. Steve takes his wife and mother through the back and Becky says she knows how much being here means to Kylie and is sure she wouldn't screw that up for fifty lousy quid.

Steve tells Becky that Liz has to ask everybody. He suggests maybe Kylie was desperate for money for drugs. Kylie listens outside the door as Liz reminds Becky that Kylie's had it hard and can't change just like that. She opens the door, bright and breezy to ask if she can open a can of tuna for a sandwich. "Have you had fifty quit out of the till?" Liz asks. "Eh? Why would I? I'm working," Kylie says. She says she wouldn't do that after everything they've done for her and Max. Steve leaves the room and Liz sits stone-faced as Becky tells Kylie to ignore her. "She were just the same with me before I married Steve."

Izzy meets her sister in the street. Katie claims to be on her way back to school, but when she's gone to catch the bus Izzy tells Kirk how worried she is about her. Kirk tells her that Chesney didn't get on well at school and Izzy says that's what worries her – she sees Chesney doing well and thinks school's a waste of time. They meet Garry and Quinny (remembered, yay!) and Izzy thinks Garry'll just get a slapped wrist because he was defending her. But Garry says he's got form and Quinny says they expect squaddies to have more self control. Garry says if he has to serve time the army will chuck him out. He promises Kirk he won't mention his name. When the soldiers go, Izzy is angry that Kirk's worried about saving his own skin. She apologises but says she can't believe Garry's life will go down the toilet just because he was defending her.

In the cafe, Anna admits to Roy that she almost hopes Garry will be jailed because it will be better than having him blown up by some roadside bomb in Afghanistan. "He's my baby, Roy. I just want him home safe."

In the police station, Garry and Quinny sit down to wait, with Garry reckoning he's just like a guy they've just seen being told off by a policeman. "A thug's a thug when it comes down to it. I deserve everything I got."

In the factory, Trevor brings in a parcel and tells everyone it's that silk they've been waiting for. He has trouble getting the bolt of fabric unwrapped and before Carla can open her mouth he uses a box cutter to rip the cardboard . . . and several layers of silk . . . Oops! "You moron!" shouts Nick. "Have you got any idea how much this stuff costs?" Trevor tries to apologise and Izzy points out it was an accident. Carla tells him to salvage what he can and she'll get some more delivered overnight.

Katie arrives at the yard to see Owen about the same time as Eileen does. Owen gives Katie money to go to the cafe and then apologises to Eileen about last night. She suggests she comes back at 5.30 tonight and Owen tries to dissuade her. But his books are in a terrible state, Eileen says. And she'd rather be earning than sitting in the Rovers. "I don't want to tie you up," says Owen. "Spoilsport," grins Eileen. She says she'll bring some wine and see him later.

As Nick arrives home, Natasha's standing looking at her reflection with a cushion up her clothes. Nick tells her to take no notice of what Gail says but Natasha says she's always going on, wanting to know what Natasha's been eating, what she's doing. Nick says Gail's never happier than when she's interfering. He promises Natasha everything will be OK.

Ciaran's in the street when Sean asks if he can have a word. He wants to know if Ciaran's noticed anything between Owen and Liz. He tells Ciaran about seeing them kissing and how Eileen has no idea. Ciaran warns him never to come between two women and a fella. Sean says he can't stand back and see Eileen heartbroken.

In the pub, Kylie is in the back room and sees a handbag hanging over a chair. She's in like a ferret. She's just taken money from the purse when Steve comes through from the kitchen. "What the hell are you doing?" he asks.

Kirk arrives at the police station, to Quinny's surprise. He tells the officer on the counter that he's come to say they've got the wrong man.

Steve tells Kylie she's wrong if she thinks he's just some middle-aged duffer she can leech off. He says he'd have given her fifty quid if she'd asked. Kylie asks him not to tell Becky but he says the sooner Becky knows what she's really like, the better. As he heads for the door, Kylie slams it, puts her back to it and unzips her top. "What if I made it worth your while?" she asks. "You may be married but I know your type." She wants him "to keep that big gob of yours shut."

The End of the first episode.
Margaret Carr

Here is Friday's second episode...

...and we pick up where we left off as Kylie makes advances on Steve with a man hungry look in her eyes. Steve backs away and tells her to stop it. She insists that it's what he wants but he assures her that he is not interested. She changes tactic and tries to plead innocence by saying the theft was not how it looked but Steve has her sussed. At that moment, Becky walks in and Steve looks troubled as Kylie strikes up a perfectly pleasant conversation with the sister she has just betrayed.

Owen is thanking Eileen for sorting out the books. Eileen asks if he would like some company tonight. He apologises for last night and tells her Katy had homework. Katy comes in at this point and when she hears Eileen organising a date in the Rovers she tells Owen she has French homework so it will have to come after that. After Eileen goes, Katy says she won't interfere if she is allowed to see Chesney again. Owen reluctantly agrees.

Nick thoughtfully asks Peter if he ever feels like he is in the wrong line of work. Peter tells him he does everyday. Nick asks him if he ever thinks about the bar he nearly started up. Peter replies that Leanne is dead set on it still but it's not practical and it nearly split them up last time. Nick looks thoughtful.

Steve comes to Lloyd for advice on what to do about Kylie. Lloyd asks him if he may have misread the signals but Steve assures him that what was proposed was very clear!

Trev is sitting waiting for Carla to finish up in the office. Sean pops in and asks if he is okay. Trev admits that he is fed up. Sean tries to console him by saying that anyone can make a mistake like he did. Trev isn't sure Carla sees it that way.

Audrey and Gail come into the Rovers. Gail makes a beeline for Nick. He tells her he wishes she'd make more of an effort with Natasha. Gail replies that she can't pretend to think she's good for him. Natasha comes out of the toilets and looks downcast when she sees Gail.

Liz is apologising to Becky about the things she said about Kylie. Becky tells her to forget about it.

Quinny, Anna and Gary come into the pub. Gary goes over to Izzy and tells her that because of Kirk, the charges have been dropped.

Steve is unsure over what to do about Kylie but Lloyd tells him it's obvious, he has to get Kylie to move out. Kylie is passing and Steve goes up to her and tells her he wants her out, he will even pay a month's rent for her new place, wherever it may be. Kylie tries to say that it will never happen again and Steve agrees with her… as she will be gone.

Eileen comes into the Rovers with Sean. Liz comments that she looks very glam.

Kirk arrives and Gary offers to buy him a pint. Anna is telling Izzy that she is impressed by what Kirk did as she always thought he was a bit backwards.

Carla and Trev are the next punters in and Trev tells Carla with embarrassment that he hasn't been to a cashpoint. She rolls her eyes and gets out her purse.

Becky asks Liz where Kylie is.

Audrey is warning Gail not to be too hard on Natasha as she is a lovely girl and if it gets to a situation where Nick has to choose, Gail will come a distant second place.

Sean is telling Eileen that things won't work out with Owen as he seems besotted with Liz. As Eileen watches Owen come in and flirt with Liz, the red mist descends and she realises what has been going on.

Quinny tries to chat up Carla but his lines fall flat and she tells him she is not impressed.

Becky is gutted when Kylie tells her she is moving out. Becky tells her it doesn't make sense but Kylie says she is happier on her own two feet.

Natasha is in tears as another pregnancy test comes out negative. She hides it under the settee as Nick comes in and she sobs that everything is a mess. It seems like she is about to confess but Nick assumes she is upset over Gail and hugs her, telling her that it'll be all right.

Becky is saying to Steve that it makes no sense for Kylie to give up a rent free home to go and live in a grotty flat. Steve shrugs and tells her that Kylie wants to be independent and they can't stop her.

Anna and Izzy are wondering if Kirk would make a good soldier. Gary points out that he has the right hairstyle but Izzy is adamant that Kirk would be a terrible soldier.

Eileen gets up and confronts Owen and Liz who are looking cosy. She makes it clear to Owen that she has sussed his game and walks out. Liz feels guilty and acts cold towards Owen.

Carla is having a glass of wine at home. Trev says she is knocking it back a bit and goes to bed. Carla looks miserable and pours herself another.

Gary, Anna and Quinny get up to play darts as Izzy watches. After a match, Gary sits down opposite her and Kirk catches her looking lovingly at him. As Anna tells him it was bad luck that he lost the game, he comments that that is the story of his life.

Steve comes through to the news that Kylie has changed her mind. Becky is over the moon and Kylie says it's in Max's best interests. As Becky goes out to help Liz, Kylie looks smug. Steve tells her to pack her bags but she says if he makes her leave, she'd make sure Becky would see neither her or Max again. Steve knows that this would devastate Becky and Kylie grins before saying slyly that it looks like she is staying.

So What have we learned?
-Steve had 'it' yesterday. Too much information perhaps? -Eileen has adopted 'Laters!' as a farewell.
-Eddie can't pronounce Lintel Road
-Sean can't spend a night without his phone, despite the fact that nobody texts him.
-Sean has a Geri Halliwell CD
-Ditziness isn't a crime
-There are too many choices on the Rovers jukebox
-Kirk has the right haircut for a soldier.

Dubious Awards
Least surprising revelation: "Our Jason was never a fan of school." You don't say, Eileen?
Proudest Achievement: "I were good on bins" Trev
Worst case of amnesia: "When did I have a go before?" When did you NOT would be a better question, Gail.
Classiest conversationalist: "Max needed a wazz so I took him to the bog" Becky
Most ironic statement: "It just seemed like a no brainer" Is Kirk talking about his head maybe?
Most accurate insinuation: "You make me sound like a right head case!" Kylie.

That's all from me! More coming soon!
Duncan Lindsay


Monday 20 September

Written By Julie Jones Directed by Ian Bevitt

Nick and Natasha are walking to work. He's making very disparaging remarks about Trevor who destroyed the roll of silk. He then apologizes and mentions how Gail was horrid to Natasha the night before but says Gail never approved of his girlfriends. He offers to make her a nice meal and a surprise. He won't tell her in spite of her urging.

Across the road, Sean is making fun of the scandalous headlines in the magazines that Eileen reads. She's using them to pad out the time she puts in at Owen's yard doing the books. She won't give up the job since the hours are flexible and she needs the money if she's buying the house.

Kevin takes a defaced poster off his garage door. Where could Sophie be!?

It's morning at the pub. Steve is trying to get Amy ready for school. The chatter is about kids with ears pierced and tattoos and Kylie keeps giving Steve knowing glances which he's not comfortable with. Becky hugs Steve for being a top dad and then takes Amy's backpack out of the room after Amy and Liz. Kylie makes remarks about how Becky will miss them when they go.

Rita is in the health center and she and Gail are talking about Sophie being missing. Natasha comes in for an appointment and the conversation turns to Gail's new grandchild. Gail doesn't show a lot of enthusiasm but Rita doesn't notice. Rita mentions Emily might be persuaded to knit a lovely little outfit for the baby. Rita tells Natasha she's lucky bringing a new life in the world. Natasha and Gail both look shifty!

In the builder's yard, Owen comes down with a handful of messy looking papers just as Eileen arrives. She establishes that she still works there and says they're better off as friends anyway. He invites her to a do at the pub for his birthday tonight. Jason arrives a bit late and Owen hollers at him for it. Jason doesn't seem to take it all that seriously and turns to go get some breakfast at Roy's. Owen gets angry and lays down the rules and he docks Jason a half day's pay for his troubles! Eileen now has another reason to resent him!

Natasha asks the doctor if there's any other way she can get pregnant faster, like following some of the old wives' tails. She gets worked up and says she's been minding all the stress. He offers to write a sleeping pill prescription and says she needs to see a councilor. She's even starting to mix reality with her fantasies. The doctor says she really needs to tell Nick the truth.

Meanwhile, Nick is doing business at the factory, and the workers have noticed that Nick is in a good mood today.

We are transported to a kitchen at a hotel or B&B where it seems Sian is working. A young man invites her out that night. Sophie comes in with their stuff and says they were kicked out because they couldn't pay the rent. Now they have no place to stay and no money!

Becky shows Steve a load of shoes stacked by the door, it makes her happy because it represents their family. She's really all excited about doing family things together. Lloyd and Russ come in and asks Steve and Max to go kick a ball around at the Red Rec.

Natasha comes out of the office and the doctor mentions that she can come back next week if she's still "feeling like this" which is overheard by Gail. Gail pounces on Natasha and wonders what's wrong. Natasha won't say but insists she doesn't have to get Nick either. Natasha leaves and Gail seems about to go after her but the doctor says it's none of her business. She's worried there's something wrong and he won't tell her, warning her again. Rules are rules.

After the break, Kylie is serving in the cafe but not well. Norris complains about burned cheese on toast (I didn't realize she was doing any of the cooking?) and she's rude to Norris when he sends it back to be redone. Owen comes in and sees Katy and Chesney having their dinner. Chesney promises to walk Katy back to school personally. Fiz comes in as well. Natasha is nursing a cup of tea and wringing her hands over a tissue. Kylie offers to get her a fresh "snot rag" (nice.) and puts Natasha's clearly upset demeanor down to pregnancy hormones. Fiz follows Natasha out, catching up to her. Fiz tells her she can't carry on like that but Natasha argues with her, overseen by Nick. Before Nick can go see what's going on, Julie comes out to fetch him for the phone.

Owen talks to Sean and warns him that Sean's interfering could get him into trouble. Steve and Lloyd and the boys are back. Steve has told Lloyd that Kylie has come on to him and he doesn't know what to do. Rita offers the kids some sweets.

The young man in the kitchen brings some food for Sophie and Sian and offers them a place to stay at his place. They'll have to sleep on the floor and there are a lot of housemates. Sophie isn't too keen but Sian thinks he's ok. There's 10 others living there. Sophie reckons there's safety in numbers so she agrees.

In the factory, Nick accuses Fiz of being a bully to Natasha. She can't tell him what it's about and he should ask Natasha what it was about.

Norris is fussing over the midget gems. Rita reminds him it's supposed to be his afternoon off. He says he's in a bidding war over a turbo foot spa and doesn't want to leave the laptop. (I'd say he could take it with him but maybe Emily doesn't have an internet connection). Graham comes in, looking scruffy and dirty. He's been dealing with Audrey's borders, it seems, and now needs a bath. He asks Tina to come scrub his back but she's working. Rita offers that she can take her break and they run out giggling. Norris is disapproving. Rita reckons he was born middle aged.

In the salon, Fiz comes in to give Natasha what for. She tells her that Nick saw them rowing and urges her again to tell Nick. She says he'll leave her and he'll hate her. She says he really wants this baby! What baby? see? reality and fantasy are starting to blur for this poor woman! She could always tell him she miscarried which is more lies, Fiz points out. No, she's right. Natasha knows that even more lies would only be worse and she's got to tell him. She says she'll tell him today.

Rita and Norris are having a cup of tea and we can hear water trickling from somewhere. Kevin comes in and they ask him about Sophie sympathetically. After he leaves, Norris goes into the back and they are horrified to see water coming out of a hole in the ceiling and it's pouring right on the laptop which is sizzling on the desk! Eeek! They scramble as Graeme and Tina run in and are equally horrified. Seems they got side tracked while the water was running. Norris wails about the wages of sin and Rita calls him a drama queen. It's all chaos!

Kylie finds Steve in the smoking shelter. She still figures he's gagging for her because he hasn't told Becky about their snog. He states that he's a happily married man, and it was *her* that came on to him. She doesn't buy it. He tells her she could turn her life around if she wanted. She wonders what's in it for him. He says Becky is happy having them there. She's not so sure she can live up to it. She says people get tired of her after awhile (I wonder why!)

In the factory, Nick is carrying a small gift bag. Julie persuades him to show them and yes, it's an engagement ring! They're all thrilled and Julie is all emotional over the romance of it all. He plans to prose that evening but Natasha and Fiz come in just then. Sean does a very bad Beyonce impersonation (uh-ohoh! "Putaringonit" and pointing while he dances) trying to warn Nick off saying anything more and spoiling the surprise. He turns around and sees them, Natasha looking nervous. But before she can tell him (what? there on the factory floor in front of everyone?), Julie pushes him forward and he starts with his speech, gets down on one knee and proposes to her... right there on the factory floor in front of everyone! Natasha looks stunned but a smile plays at the corner of her mouth. (Result!!!)

Tvor

Written by Jan McVerry and directed by Ian Bevitt.

Nick proposes and Natasha accepts. He gives her the ring and they embrace. They turn up at the salon and Audrey is pleased to congratulate them on the event. Audrey knows that Natasha will make Nick happy. Gail walks in and takes the news of the engagement badly. Gail wants to talk to Nick - but does not look like she is going to get the chance. Gail totally fails to congratulate them.

At the Kabin the PC is being mopped up - but Norris is complaining about laptop and Rita is furious over the flooded flat. Not good. Later Roy helps disassemble the flooded PC. Emily tries to convince Rita that Tina and Graeme are not as bad as Doris is making out. Doris reckons they should pay for repair of the PC by a man in Inkerman Street with a card in the window.

Owen meets Liz on a sunny Street and starts chatting him up. Liz does not want to upset Eileen - but as the latter is working normally Owen can see no reason for Liz to refuse his invitation.

David is teasing Tina in Roy's Rolls and Graeme is trying to cheer her up. David departs with a mouthful of doughnut.

Sophie and Sian are taken home by the co-worker - it appears to be a squat and is less then attractive. Dinner is courtesy of some rip off food from work.

Various meetings in the Street - Owen invites Chesney for a drink in the Rovers so he can get to know his daughter's new friend, Kirk meets Izzy as he is about to go to the cop shop - in best bib and tucker (well a clean suit anyway - which for Kirk is almost a revelation) - to take his punishment for the beating handed out by Gary and Fiz meets Natasha - and wants to know why Nick still does not know the truth. Well Natasha is blond and cannot string together more than "yes" when offered an engagement ring. Fiz is told that Natasha is going to sort it this afternoon. Fiz is astounded - she believes Natasha is greedy and she will not be joining in the celebration.

After the break we open in the Rovers where Steve is supplying champagne for the celebration. Sean complains that Julie is not particularly happy - she loves the romance. Sean like Fiz also believes that Natasha is after the cash. Nick tells Gail that is happening - whether she likes it or not.

The squat is going from bad to worse. Sophie is far from happy. The place reeks of weed and Sophie wants to go home - it is not as bad as this. Sian points out that they are at least together - which would not be true if they return home. They make each laugh and then cuddle - poor lost souls.

Kirk returns to the Rovers and reports that he has had the case dropped due to lack of evidence. Gary is suitably grateful. Chesney is getting well snogged - so Liz gives Owen a good snogging - when Eileen arrives and looks a little disconcerted. Eileen reckons that Liz is going to need a lot of luck if she is getting involved with Owen. The alarm has gone off at the yard and he sends Eileen to ensure it is secure.

Audrey is supporting the engagement whilst Gail is far from happy. Gail is still puzzling on the events this morning in the surgery. Audrey tells Gail that if she cannot celebrate she should go home - and Gail leaves the Rovers. Once outside she stops and looks at the surgery and has an idea.

Eileen enters the yard and opens the cash box and is tempted to take it - but puts it back.

Steve is double checking the cash in the till following the recent loss. All present and correct.

Kylie takes a beer to Gary but she gets blown off as he departs. So she takes the beer over to David and he invites her to sit down with him.

Leanne congratulates Nick on the engagement.

Inside the surgery, Gail accesses Natasha's records and she will know the awful truth. Audrey comes in and Gail shows Audrey the evidence of the termination four weeks earlier. Audrey blames a system failure - but Gail knows it must be accurate. Gail is going to talk to Nick - and as Audrey points out there are high risks - she might lose her job and / or her son.

And I will be back next week.
K Richard W


Thursday 23 September

Breakfast time at the Platt's. Gail's walking round with a pained expression, and David is cheerfully munching his way through a bowl of cereal, remarking on how Natasha is going to be his sister in law. He's looking forward to all the celebrations - stag do, wedding do, christening…..

Round at their new flat, Nick gets up and finds Natasha on the sofa. She says she couldn't settle, it probably won't be the last sleepless night due to the baby. He tells her she looks shattered and she's going nowhere. She protests that she'll be ok after a shower but he insists she's not going to work and he'll sort it with Audrey. She says that'll be two days she's had off work, he says there have to be some perks to carrying the boss's great-grandchild. He smiles and hugs her, she manages a weak smile in return, but then looks worried.

Sian creeps around the room, trying not to wake Sophie from their grubby mattress on the floor. Sophie tells her she's been awake for hours, but she's glad Sian's pants at creeping out, that way she'll never wake up to a note on the pillow.

Gail sees Audrey opening up the salon and asks if she's got a minute. Audrey thinks it's going to be longer than a minute, and she hopes Gail hasn't done anything hasty. Gail says she cares about Nick . In the middle of their conversation, Nick comes in. There's an awkward pause. "Sorry, is this a bad time?" he asks, and then tells Audrey that Natasha won't be in, she's had a bad night with the baby. "Is that what she told you?" Gail demands to know. Nick says it happens in pregnancy. "In pregnancy, yes," mutters Gail, but before she can say anything else Audrey butts in and tells Nick it's fine, and Natasha's not to worry. As he leaves, Gail nearly explodes. "The brass neck of her!" she spits, but Audrey points out they don't know the full story. Gail knows Natasha's had an abortion. "But do we know why?" says Audrey, going on to say that maybe Nick knows and is keeping up the pretence for Natasha's sake.

Ciaran arrives for work at the Rovers and tells Liz and Michelle that he'll be leaving. A mate of his has opened a swanky restaurant in Glasgow and wants Ciaran to work for him. Michelle's face falls, and then she tries not to show it. Liz asks if he's got the job already but Ciaran says he's got to go through the interview process and show the top chef what he can do, but he thinks it'll be fine. Liz tells him he'll be missed. "Will I?" asks Ciaran, and looks directly at Michelle. She lowers her eyes and goes off to get the mixers.

In their student house, Mikey starts talking to Sophie who's sorting out her washing. Suddenly he lunges at her, and she's horrified. "What are you doing?" He says there are better things they can be doing than washing. She tells him if he touches her one more time she's calling the coppers. She rushes out of the room.

Gail goes round to see Natasha at the flat. She remarks that Natasha is looking remarkably well for someone who's off work, sick. Natasha says she had a touch of morning sickness. "Don't insult me!" snaps Gail, "sick you may be, but it's nothing to do with the baby, not any more." Natasha stares at her, horrified.

Sian comes back from work and finds Sophie sitting on the wall outside the house. Sophie tells her what happened with Mikey, and Sian is furious. She marches up to the front door, but it's locked. She bangs on it and Mikey opens it. She asks what he thinks he was playing at, but he reckons he just got the wrong end of the stick. "It's no biggie," he says. Sian says it is to her. "Who are you? Her mum?" he asks. Sian says she's her girlfriend. The penny drops with Mikey, and he reckons they could all still be mates. "I don't think so," says Sophie, and they go off to pack their stuff.

Gail confronts Natasha about the abortion. Natasha starts to try and deny it, saying it's a pack of lies, but Gail stops her and says she's seen her medical records. Natasha is shocked, saying she had no right. Gail reckons that as she was protecting one of her kids she had every right (I don't think the law would see it like that, Gail). Natasha says she loves Nick and it's not what it looks like. Gail wants to know if Nick knows the score and Natasha dumbly shakes her head. "Then there's nothing more to be said," says Gail, and makes to leave. Natasha asks to be heard, she's entitled to that. "You're entitled to nothing," says Gail, but tells her to say her piece, quickly, she needs to talk to her son.

Natasha starts to explain how Nick dumped her before she could tell him she was pregnant. Then it seemed to her that Nick and Leanne might get together. Gail scoffs and wonders what goes on in Natasha's head. "Have you never been paranoid?" Natasha asks. "So scared of losing someone you see things that aren't there." "Like a baby?" mutters Gail, "no, I can't say I have." Natasha goes on to say how Nick didn't want to know when she first told him about the baby, so she thought there was no hope. "So I got rid," she says, "but then there was Nick, on the doorstep, telling me all the things I wanted to hear. How he wanted to be with me and bring up our child together. Was I supposed to tell him I'd just had it aborted?" Gail says yes, she should, if she loved him. Natasha tells Gail she thought she could get pregnant again quickly. Gail points out that if he really wanted her she wouldn't have to trap him with another child. She tells Natasha it's over, and goes to leave. Natasha begs her to let Nick hear it from her and in the end Gail agrees. "All right, but I want it done now."

Eileen and Sean go into the pub, she says she won't be driven out of her local. Owen is at the bar, talking to Liz. Sean orders two hotpots and two white wines, and tries to get Eileen to go and sit down, but Owen calls to her. He says how he and Liz are going to the cinema later so he won't be in the office. He asks if she can do some outstanding paperwork and then lock up. "Well, you've nothing else on, have you?" he says.

Natasha goes into the cafe and finds Nick. He seems genuinely pleased to see her. He starts chattering on, but Natasha isn't listening. "Why did you come back to me?" she asks suddenly, "was it because of the baby?" Nick admits the baby was part of it, but he does care about her. She asks if he loves her, and he says he does, now more than ever. "Can we go home?" she asks him.

Ciaran is talking to Sean very philosophically about his life. All his friends have settled down, whereas he has nothing to show for his life. Sean says he has loads of options - the best one being right under his nose, and he nods towards Michelle. Ciaran says he thought so too for a while, but his reputation went before him so it's best he moves on.

Owen has sat himself down with Eileen and is running over what needs doing in the office. "Shouldn't you be writing this down?" he asks. She says it's all in her head, after all as he pointed out, there's nothing else to think about. He tells her she's actually had a lucky escape. He tells her there are some invoices that need paying so he's signed some cheques and she can pay them. Eileen is shocked to learn that he doesn't know how much money is in his account. He says he has four or five accounts and has a rough idea overall. He rushes off, leaving Eileen staring thoughtfully at the blank, signed, cheques.

Sian and Sophie are in a cafe, mulling over what happened. Sophie is amazed at the way Sian stuck up for her, but as they have no money, no clean clothes and nowhere to stay, she thinks they should just go home. Sian however, if frightened of her dad, he's not like Kevin and wouldn't understand them.

Back in the pub, Eileen suddenly picks up the pen and fills in a cheque, putting Jason's name on the payee line. Jason, having bought a drink, then comes to sit down. She hands him the cheque, saying it's the hours Owen stopped him. Jason wants to know how she talked him round, and Eileen says she just did a few extra hours for him, but warns him not to mention it to Owen, he wouldn't thank him for reminding him he was in the wrong, he would think Jason was rubbing his nose in it.

Gail has returned to Audrey in the pub and told her about her conversation with Natasha. Audrey thinks it's all so sad. "Sad?" snorts Gail, "I'm furious, she was trying to justify it!" Audrey can't believe Natasha did it through malice, she loves Nick in her misguided way. Gail is annoyed that Audrey is making excuses for Natasha, it will probably destroy Nick. Audrey says yes, it's awful, and Nick will suffer, but so will Natasha, probably most of all. Gail wonders if she ought to go and be with Nick, but Audrey stops her and tells her it's time to stand back. Gail however, won't be stopped. "He needs me," she says, and out she goes.

Sophie goes into a phone box and makes a call to Rosie. "I just want to come home," she sobs.

Nick is all over Natasha on the sofa. She tries to push him off, saying they need to talk. Just then the doorbell rings. He goes to the intercom, it's Gail of course. She asks if he's all right. He tells her he's busy and he'll call round later. "Has she told you?" asks Gail, and insists he lets her come up. "It's important." Sighing, he opens the door.

Gail marches in and realises that Natasha has still not broken the news. "I didn't want to be the one to tell you," she says, and goes on to say how it's all been lies, the back pain, the morning sickness, the scan. "She isn't carrying your baby, hasn't been for some time." Nick doesn't believe Gail and tries to hustle her out of the apartment. "Listen to me," cries Gail, "I checked her medical records, she's had an abortion!" In disbelief he still tries to push Gail out through the door until Natasha calls out to him to stop. She tells him that Gail isn't lying. "I made a terrible mistake," she says, sobbing. "There isn't a baby any more, I'm so sorry." Nick bows his head and weeps.

Anne Logan.


Friday 24 September

Hello and welcome to Friday.

We resume where we left off on Thursday, with Gail channeling Ivy and in Nick and Natasha's flat. She's telling Nick it's for his own good. He needed to know what Natasha was like before she trapped him into marriage. "You said you were going to tell him. Instead, you were dragging him into the bedroom." Nick tells Gail she should go, but she's not finished yet. "It's a straitjacket she needs, not a baby," she tells her son as Natasha sits there with tears streaming down her face. "I'm not insane, Gail. I just did something really, really stupid," weeps Natasha. Nick says she got that right and Gail turns her anger on him, reminding him that she warned him Natasha was no good, right from the start. "I am good," Natasha tells her. "And I'm glad this is out in the open." "So am I," says Gail, "because now you can sling your hook!" Nick turns to Gail and demands that she go, which does, but reluctantly.

Rosie, skimpy top flapping in the breeze, emerges from her front door and sees Jason. He plans to go home for a snooze but she bullies him into getting into the car with her to go to Sheffield. He wonders that she's going dressed like that (it's no worse than lots of the young women wandering the streets when it's warm) and wants to take her sports car but she points out it's only got two seats.

Nick, sounding surprisingly calm and reasonable considering who his mother and Gran were, asks Natasha why she didn't tell him she was pregnant in the first place. She explains he could barely handle the idea of living with her, so she didn't hold much hope for a baby. Nick can understand why she got rid of the baby but can't understand why she didn't tell him. "I'd barely come out of the clinic and there you were, saying everything I wanted to hear - how we should try again now there was a baby in the picture." She tells him she thought it was the only reason he'd come back to her and if she got pregnant again quickly, everything would be all right. She tells him the first scan was Fiz's and the second was off the internet. Nick realises Fiz knew Natasha wasn't pregnant. "No wonder she was having a go at you. I stood up for you, for God's sake!" Nick says. Natasha urges him not to have a go at Fiz. "I put her in a terrible situation." Nick's almost crying now. He tells her that if she had any faith in their relationship she would have been honest. "You can borrow my big blue bag," he tells her.

Kevin notices his car is gone.

In a cafe in Sheffield, Sian can't believe Sophie's rung Rosie. She accuses Sophie of sneaking off behind her back and making decisions without her. Sian points out that Sophie's family will support her but hers won't.

"Nobody listens to me," says Gail to Audrey. "Nick didn't listen. You didn't." Audrey points out that all she did was ask Gail to hold her horses. They're in the back of the salon and David comes in wanting to know what's going on. Audrey tells him to go away but Gail says he ought to know and it'll get out soon enough anyway. She even calls in Maria to hear. And she tells them the story. Maria's annoyed that she's been putting baby clothes aside. David alone seems to know just how much satisfaction Gail is getting from this. "Have a word in her ear, did you, Gail?" he asks quietly.

Graeme's trying to convince Tina to throw a sickie because she knows she'll get the silent treatment from Rita. But Tina says that wouldn't be fair. Graeme tells her that in a funny sort of way Rita reminds him of Tina. "I'll take that as a compliment," Tina says.

In the Kabin, Norris is able to surf bunion sites again. He's already been on the confectioners' forum to update everyone there. He gloats that sending the laptop to his man out of the window was a "steal" and much better than taking it to a repair shop. Rita tells him her bathroom carpet needs replacing. She agrees with Norris that they were probably wrong to take in Tina and Graeme. She says she liked Tina and could see something of herself in her. She suggests Graeme and Norris are more alike than Norris realises. Norris says he likes Graeme but he's a nuisance and a bore. "Oh, in that case I take it all back. You're like chalk and cheese," Rita says.

Sally arrives home and Kevin shows her the note from Rosie saying she's taken the car. "Sorry dad, taken the car, soz, LOL. Rosie. PS, It's well urgent," reads Sally. "One missing, one killed in a car wreck. Where did we go wrong?" Kevin asks mournfully.

Rosie's ignoring his call on her phone. She's trying to use the GPS function to navigate but the battery's going. She whacks it on the dashboard ... clearly a fan of percussive maintenance. Jason suggests she get out and ask for directions but she's not walking round like she is. She suggests they just drive round in the hope of finding the right place. Jason sarcastically agrees, "because petrol's free and Sheffield's tiny." Jason thinks it's mad that his brother and her sister have both turned out gay. Rosie thinks it's cool and lectures him for no real reason. Jason asks a passer-by if he knows where the cafe is, but he doesn't.

Nick's made a start packing Natasha's bag. He tells her he won't know what to tell people, though she suggests saying she's miscarried and they're trying again. At least he won't be bringing up a kid with a basket-case, he tells her. Natasha tells him that isn't very nice and says she knows about his history with abortion. Nick says neither he nor Leanne were ready for a baby. "You bullied her into it," she says. She tells him she knows she's second best to Leanne and that he only came back to her because he knew he didn't stand a chance with Leanne. She tells him it's not going to happen. "I'm here. I want you. I'm the silver medal." "I'd hate to see the bronze," he says. Natasha draws herself up straight and tells him with all the dignity she can muster that she's not the psychopath his mother thinks. All she wanted was the normal things ... a husband, kids." She says she wanted to make sandwiches and do the school run. "Why can't I have that?" Nick tells her he's going out and doesn't want to see so much as a nail file left behind her when he gets back. "You got out of jail free, didn't you? Cause deep down you're delighted," she says. "Now go jump for joy."

In the Kabin Tina is indeed getting the silent treatment. She asks Rita if she wants to have it out. Rita tells her she trusted her. Tina admits it's time she and Graeme found a place of their own. They agree they haven't fallen out too badly.

Nick's gone to visit Leanne and Peter. He says he was going to tell everyone it was a miscarriage but thought it best that people knew what they were dealing with. Peter thinks Natasha always looked a bit crafty. Nick says he can't face his mother. Leanne suggests he talk to Natasha. "She is decent, despite all this. Seriously, Nick. Maybe it's not all over yet." Nick doesn't know what to do.

Rosie and Jason have finally arrived at the right cafe, though Sian's first words are "What is she wearing?" She's annoyed at Jason being there, but he points out that he's Mr Gay Weatherfield ("There's no need for sarcasm," says Sian) and Rosie says Jason's brother is gay. She also says being a lesbian is like a badge of honour. "I so wish I was one." Rosie orders him to pay the bill. Rosie tries to assure Sian that her parents will be fine eventually, though she says her father screams at the telly if there's a woman with short hair.

At Gail's, they're discussing Natasha when there's a knock at the door. Gail goes to answer it. "How do you feel, mum, finding out about an abortion after it's actually happened? Not being there for the planning stage. . ." Gail gives David a dirty look and continues to the door. It's Natasha. She's looking for Nick. "Can I talk to you for a minute?" David and Audrey are shocked to see her. Natasha tells them it's more complicated than they think. Audrey says it would be best if she doesn't come back to the salon. David tries to say he's with Nick on this. Audrey tells her she's a lovely bright young girl. "Why did you resort to all this?" "I was scared. I didn't want to lose him. Now I'm scared all over again, only even more so." She wants to know why they're all being so mean. "Blood's thicker than Barbicide," says David. Audrey confirms that she's sacked. "Thank you for everything up till now," Natasha says. "God bless." And she turns and leaves.

Outside she walks like an automaton past Graeme and Tina, who's telling him she's told Rita they'll find somewhere. He points out they couldn't find anywhere before and he quite likes hanging out with the oldies.

Sally's trying to call Rosie while Kevin just sinks further into depression. Then Rosie is in the room - her clothes horrifying her mother. She assures Kevin she didn't drive the car but Jason did. "We had to go and get someone." Sophie, in tears, comes in and there are lots of hugs and questions. Sally's so glad they're back, though she can't believe Sophie's started drinking tea. Jason leaves, telling Sophie not to run away again. "That's the last afternoon I want to spend with your sister!" Sophie promises.

Nick goes back to the flat, calling Natasha. It's a minute before he sees the vodka bottle, the pill bottle, and Natasha slumped on the floor.

The End of the first episode.
Margaret Carr

We pick up where we left off, with Nick bending down to an unconscious Natasha. He sees that the bottle of pills is empty and promptly phones an ambulance

Sally is fussing over Sophie and Sian and preparing them a nice dinner. Sian and Sophie tell her that they are sorry for worrying her. Sally can't hold back tears and Sophie embraces her.

Natasha is being placed into the ambulance as residents (led by Norris, gather round. Gail comes over but Nick tells Audrey to get her out of his sight. Leanne tells Nick he can't go with her on his own and Peter tells her to go into the ambulance too.

Sian's dad, Vinnie, comes into the Webster's house as Sally has phoned him. He calls Sophie and Sian drama queens. Tension begins to build and Kevin tries to break the ice by offering him a beer.

Fiz is shocked to hear about Natasha and scolds herself for sleeping through it. John tries to reassure her but she feels bad that she wasn't there for her friend.

Ryan is telling Ciaran that he is going to a uni in Weatherfield. Ciaran encourages him to spread his wings and explore the world a bit by going further afield. Ryan asks if that's what Ciaran is doing and he replies that there is nothing keeping him here.

Norris is gossiping about Natasha's suicide attempt to Liz and tells her on good knowledge that it doesn't look good for her.

Gail, Audrey and David are in the kitchen talking about Natasha. David suggests that it is a cry for help and Gail quickly agrees. David then goes on to say that with no job, boyfriend, home or baby maybe she did want to end it all. Gail is keen to go and see Nick but Audrey tells her the best thing she can do is stay well away for now.

Liz is trying to convince Michelle to come clean to Ciaran about her feelings for him. When she refuses, Liz says she is like an ice maiden and Michelle retorts that it was her son, Steve, who made her that way by breaking her heart.

Nick tells Leanne that he is glad she came with him. The doctor comes through and tells them that Natasha has stabilised but is not out of the woods. Leanne asks if she will be okay and the doctor replies that he can offer no guarantees. She took a serious amount of tablets. Nick tearfully whispers that she really wanted to die.

Nick is asking Leanne what he would do if Natasha died. He would have three deaths on his conscience then as he was responsible for two abortions. Leanne tells him not to rake that up and that he has to forgive himself. She forgave him long ago for that as they were just kids then. They are interrupted by the arrival of Audrey. Nick asks Leanne to get rid of her.

Fiz has phoned the hospital but they won't tell her anything as she is not a relative. She feels bad for pressurising Natasha to come clean but John tells her it's not her fault. They both stroke Fiz's belly and Fiz says that they are blessed.

Gail is wondering aloud whether she should have just sat back and not told Nick. David agrees that she should have kept out of it. Gail says Nick had a right to know there was no baby and David snipes that she didn't think he had a right to know when Tina DID have a baby. For once, Gail is left speechless.

Vinnie calls Sian a selfish cow and asks Kevin and Sally if they have had a decent explanation yet. Sian bursts into tears and tells him that she and Sophie are in love.

Nick is pondering whether he really just got back with Natasha because of the baby. Leanne says there was a lot of pressure all around. The conversation is interrupted by the doctor who tells them Natasha is coming round and Nick can go and see her.

Audrey tells Gail that Natasha is stable. Gail is shocked when she learns Nick wouldn't talk to her. Gail tells her that she thinks Natasha is mentally unstable and manipulative. Audrey replies that there must've been a final straw for her and she needed TLC not attacked.

Vinnie spits that Sian isn't a lesbian, she's just a kid. He gets abusive and Sophie stands up to him and he calls her a born again looney tune. Sally orders him out and Kevin reinforces it. They tell Sian she can stay as long as she wants. Sally adds she still isn't happy but she is trying her best to accept the fact that they are lesbians.

Natasha comes round and tells Nick she's sorry. Nick tells her she doesn't have anything to be sorry for and urges her to get some rest. He promises that everything will be okay and kisses her on the forehead.

Michelle tells Ciaran that he can get himself away. As he goes, she takes the mick out of his moobs (man-boobs if you didn't know!) and he tickles her. They share a sexually charged stare before he says goodbye. Michelle calls him back but then changes her mind and he leaves. They both look disappointed.

Nick and Leanne reach his flat and he sits down, looking heartbroken. He weeps that he never saw it coming. Leanne pulls him into a hug.

So what have we learned?
-Nick speaks very calmly (and bad-actory) in a crisis
-Sally's 'coming home after running away' signature dish is roast potatoes, lamb chops and lots of green vegetables. Kevin's is a takeaway.
-Sally is 'like the most reasonablist parent ever'
-Liverpool, Dublin, Glasgow and London are far more vibrant than Weatherfield.
-Norris is no medic
-Natasha did Michelle's hair on Tuesday and bought a Cosmopolitan and a Twix from Norris on Thursday
-Dame Judi Dench can't act as unconscious as Natasha
-Michelle doesn't do 'doe-eyed'
-Gail is too short to be hired by Scotland Yard
-David is a noisy eater
-Nick likes repeating his sentences and did so on three different occasions this episode. And did so on three different occasions this episode.

Dubious Awards
Stupidest question: "What have you done?" Nick to Natasha who is slumped unconscious with an empty bottle of pills.
Most sensitive contribution: "Let's just jump off that bridge when we come to it." David.
Bombshell of the week: "David, you're not helping." Does he ever, Audrey?
Least shocking news: "Nick must be out of his mind." Gail.
Most painful experience: "I've only just had my brainwave." Liz

That's all this week.

More soon...

Duncan Lindsay


Monday 27 September

Written By Jonathan Harvey Directed by Griff Rowland

Natasha is being released from hospital, complete with anti-depressants and an appointment with a psychiatrist. She tells the nurse she's not expecting anyone to pick her up, it's just her now. She seems lost in thought.

Leanne is making tea for Nick who's feeling very sorry for himself. No baby, no daddy. She says he's done nothing wrong, was he supposed to pretend to love someone he didn't? (That's exactly what he did, though) He feels guilty enough to want to make sure Natasha's ok.

Sally suggests both of Sian's parents come over to talk. Something needs to be sorted. Sian's not so sure having her mother involved is going to help.

Michelle comes outside in her jammies and robe to say goodbye to Ryan at the bus stop, embarrassing him. Ciaran comes along and whistles at her new look and wishes Ryan good luck for his first day at Weatherfield Institute for Performing Arts. Here comes the bus, there goes Mummy's little boy, all grown up. Michelle and Ciaran talk about his upcoming trip to Glasgow, leaving tomorrow and she wishes him good luck and all with a kiss on the cheek.

Audrey has come to visit Natasha who's still sitting on the bed, having just got her prescription. Natasha is feeling paranoid, that everyone is looking at her thinking she brought it all on herself. Audrey asks where she's going. Natasha isn't going to her mother's. Seems to be some contention there. Audrey offers her a place to stay for a few days until she gets herself sorted, an offer gratefully accepted.

In the Kabin, Tina tells Rita and Norris that Dev says she and Graeme can move in if she gets a first month's rent first. Norris goes off on a pointed lecture about Dev's office in the shop possibly being under the bathroom in case of future catastrophes. Sally arrives and Norris puts another foot in his mouth. He asks Norris why Sophie ran off and points out that everyone knows Sophie's gay. Rita is appalled and shoos Norris out to the back. She goes over to comfort Sally and can see she's upset. She invites her for a coffee.

In the factory, Carla is taking a call from Nick, who won't be in today. He's told her that Natasha is coming home today. Fiz feels guilty for not telling Nick sooner. She's the only one that seems to be sympathetic to Natasha. Julie declares there's nothing worse than a woman with a whiff of desperation about her. (You should know, Jules!) Carla makes them change the conversation, as it's too dark.

Molly brings the baby down and puts him in Tyrone's arms, desperate for a half hour's sleep. He whines that he has to go to work but she tears a strip off him for being no help at all. He suggests Sally come round at lunchtime to give her a chance to rest then. Um. No. She takes the baby back and orders a baffled Tyrone (is there any other kind?) to work.

Gail comes in to the salon to see Audrey and is horrified to be told by David that Natasha is in residence. David is too busy to talk, as he's the only one in. Gail wonders if Nick knows but David warns her off. Like that's going to do any good.

Rita and Sally are having a coffee in the cafe. Rita gently asks if Sophie really is gay and when she sees Sally's face crumple, assures her that it's not so bad. Sophie's lucky that her mum brought her up to know her own mind and she's lucky that it's 2010 and she doesn't have to hide it like when both of them were young. Sally is still struggling to get her head around it. When she called in to work, Carla said she understood because her niece is "a dyke". Sally really took that badly, finding some of the terminology very difficult especially for a girl so young. Sally cries and wonders why Sophie can't just be normal. Rita points out she is normal. Sally doesn't feel she can be honest with Sophie about how she's feeling in case Sophie runs off again.

Nick calls the hospital who tell him Natasha has been discharged. The doorbell rings. It's Gail and Nick isn't so pleased to see her. She insists she can help and says Audrey has taken in Natasha. Nick jumps and heads for the door to go over there. Gail reckons it's not his problem anymore but he calls her heartless and insists he won't abandon her in her hour of need (and his hour of guilt).

After the break, he's arrived at Audrey's with an armful of pink roses. (that's a lot of guilt!) Audrey opens the door but Natasha calls out and asks to see him. Audrey warns him to go easy on her. She's looking very nervous but touched that he brought her flowers. She tells him she was the Rose Queen at work when she was a kid. Then she apologizes as does he. She says she hopes she won't have regrets when she looks back on us. He suggests that she could come home again, he can't abandon her now. She thinks he might have forgiven her and he thinks maybe he has. She gratefully hugs him and thanks him. He leaves but Audrey runs out to see him before he leaves. She doesn't think picking up the pieces is the right thing to do. He says it's the right thing to do...for now. (*that* sounds hopeful, I don't think.) Audrey whispers she hopes he's right.

At the Webster house, Sian's parents have arrived. Her mother hugs her though it looks like it was more for show than anything else. Her dad, Vinny, is his usual ignorant self and thinks they just needs to get Sian away from the Websters, blaming Sophie for "turning" Sian. Sally tells the girls to go outside while they talk to the Powers. I think it's going to be a rough ride with the attitude Vinny has on him. Sally offers coffee, nice biscuits and a soft chair to sit in.

In the factory, the buzz is still about Natasha. Fiz thinks the whole suicide attempt was over Natasha's trying to fake her pregnancy. Julie turns the conversation to Sally bunking off work just because her daughter is gay. Sean wonders if he should talk to the girls, knowing what they're going through. Fiz thinks it's a good idea (so do I, but I wonder if they'll actually do this scene). A funny exchange then between Julie and Sean where she says her cousin Christopher told her he was gay. "He was dressed as Liza Minelli at the time and he said..." "Are you blind, Julie?" Sean finishes. "I'm not like other men, Joodge" Julie continues. Fiz asks about the name. Seems it stands for (I think) "Joodginiska Twinkletoes, it's a gay thing". "No, it's not" Sean murmurs over his shoulder. (well, *I* thought it was amusing, anyway)

In the office, Trevor tries to answer the phone but loses the client. Carla loses patience quickly.

Back at Audrey, Natasha is putting on her makeup, excited to be seeing Nick later. Audrey sits down and lays it on the line. She doesn't think this is the kind of thing that you can just brush under the rug. Natasha just shrugs and says Audrey is a glass half empty person. "And how was that glass when you tried to kill yourself, hmm?" Audrey says bluntly. She apologizes but says it will hang over them like a cancer the rest of their lives. Natasha is in denial. Audrey insists that Nick is asking her back out of guilt. Denial. Is guilt a good building block for a proper relationship?

In the Kabin, Graeme seems to have talked Dev round the rent thing and they can move in straight away. Rita comes in, sobbing. Turns out she went shopping but her credit card was denied. And it turns out someone has stolen her details and had bought all sorts of things from a telly to *gasp* something from an adult shop and now she's over her limit!

Natasha tells Audrey that she realizes she's better off without Nick and she's going to go. She tells Audrey that Nick doesn't love her, he loves Leanne. He's even told her. Natasha leaves, having already called a cab and is on the way to Coronation Street. Hmmmm... Stay tuned for next half to see Natasha take her revenge.

Tvor

Tonight in deepest darkest Weatherfield events were written by Jonathan Harvey and directed by Griff Rowland.

Natasha arrives back on the Street and climbs out of the taxi. She heads determinedly to the salon, enters, and as David asks her to take a seat as he is on his own today, he sees who it is in the mirror. She does not need an appointment she says. She wants a quiet word as a friend and she goes through to the back. She claims she is sanity personified compared with how unbalanced David is - she tells him he has no heart.

The discussion continues at the Webster household - with Kev and Sal supporting their daughters. Vinny, Sian's father is anti-lesbian and he thinks she is only 15 when she is actually 16. Vinny washes his hands of his daughter and disowns her. Sian's mother is slightly more sympathetic. Sian is quite distressed.

Ty is eating his lunch when there is a knock at the door - it is Jack and he wants to stop with them for a while - and will not give a reason. Ty accepts the answer "it is a long story" and does not probe further.

Natasha storms into the bookies and accuses Leanne of it being mainly her fault. Natasha wants to thank Leanne for being such a cow to her for the last few months. She used to think everyone in the world was nice and looked out for each other and now she knows that is not true. Leanne made her wake up and smell the bitch fest. Leanne tries to reason with her - but Natasha asks Peter who comes in to look Leanne in the eye and ask if she loves him. Neither of them realise now that she has put her finger on it.

In the factory Nick is chatting to Sean and the girls when Natasha arrives. Natasha starts to cry and when Nick advances she tells him not to touch her. He has wrecked everything - her heart, and everything she did was borne out of desperation. Natasha tells him he is love with another woman and was never in love with her. She then turns round and tells the factory staff what he calls them behind their backs - Sean aka "limp wrists", Janice - the grunting garden gnome, Julie better known as Jackie O the style icon except that Nick really calls her Jackie No and "Bin and Gone" is Trevor's nickname and lastly Carla is Mount Everest (icy and wouldn't want to go there). Natasha claims she is only doing it because of Leanne.

After the break we resume at the bookies where Leanne tells Peter to ignore the mad blonde and she tells her that she loves him in a forceful way - but somehow she looks awfully sheepish as she does so - is she realising that maybe, just maybe the old lust for Nick has not gone completely?

Back at the factory Sean is complaining about the nickname and wants an apology. Carla asks if they are going back to work and Julie says "Jackie NO". Carla tells them all to take the afternoon off to calm down and to make up for any hurt feelings. Trevor and Carla agree to have a few drinks later.

Jack and Ty are in the Rovers - the latter now wants the story. Has Jack had a row with Connie. Jack just wants a change of scenery and then refuses to discuss it further. Jack claims he his missing them and wants to spend some time with baby Jack. Jack wants to know the Street gossip - so Ty brings him up to date on Sophie who is Lebanese.

Along in the medical centre Gail is trying to sort something out for Betty - who careful observers will note hardly ever now delivers a line standing. In deference to her age her contributions are nearly always when seated - and well done to the powers that be for keeping her employed. Natasha arrives and sits behind them. She has never liked her - and she knows that Gail hates her with a vengeance.

Janet is dining with Sal and the two girls with Sal trying to say how well she brought up her daughters when Rosie arrives and with her usual lack of clothing complains about being prodded and poked. Janet cannot have her daughter to live with her - she has a new partner and his fruit machines fill Sian's bedroom. Rosie sits on the side with her exposed up to nearly the top of her thighs! Janet decides to go and tells Sian she knows where to find her.

Emily, Rita, Norris and Michelle discuss the cloning and fraud of Rita's card - Emily says the bank will refund the money - and no-one seems to know how the credit card leaks. Doris starts pointing the finger at Tina when his mobile rings - it is his bank and it appears that his banking details have also been cloned. Double the trouble. Doris reckons it must be Graeme and Tina working together. Emily holds he handbag closely.

At the factory "bin and gone" returns to find Carla struggling with emails. She tells him that she has to work hard because he is so rubbish. He leaves a bottle of wine on her desk and departs.

Natasha follows Gail to the desk and as the cute doctor comes out she asks Gail if it was right that she had illegally accessed her medical records and then discussed it with her mother and daughter. Natasha and Gail argue and then Natasha tells the doctor what happened.

Sian thanks Sally for sticking up for her. Sal tells Sian she stays as long as she likes - and there will be no misbehaving as they have taken a vow of chastity. Sal keeps thinking that Sophie will not have children - but Kev explains that things are not like that any longer.

Gail is defending herself - she will not apologise for being a good mother - which causes Natasha to explode with laughter. Gail was trying to protect her son. The doctor has heard enough -and no apology. The doctor fires Gail. Gail claims that the girl has mental health issues - but Natasha knows she has scored in the back of the net and stalks out of the medical centre wishing Gail a good life - and then points out that she had her fingers crossed!

Outside she sees Leanne and Peter with their arms around each other and realises that she has not quite succeeded. She jumps into a black cab and asks to be taken anywhere. And so she is gone.

See you all next week.

K Richard W


Thursday 30 September

Gail and Nick meet in the street. She asks if Natasha's gone for good. He thinks so, she's burnt her bridges. Gail tells him he's had a lucky escape. "Now you know exactly what she's like, imagine if you'd married her," she says. (Personally, I think Natasha is the one who had the lucky escape!) Gail's off to see Dr Carter to ask for her job back. She knows what she did was wrong, but hopes he'll see that she had no choice. (Err-yes, you did actually have a choice, Gail, no one held a gun to your head!) Nick says he's sorry she got caught up in it all and wishes her luck.

As Tyrone gets ready for work, Molly asks if he's found out why Jack has come to stay. Tyrone doesn't know, he thinks Jack was just missing them. Molly isn't convinced and wonders if he's had a fall out with Connie. She says she'll ring Connie later to find out. Tyrone tells her not to, he says Jack won't like her interfering.

Gail walks into the doctor's surgery and is horrified to find Deirdre doing her old job. Deirdre says she's only temping. "And that makes it all right, does it?" says the one who thought it was all right to go prying into confidential medical records. "It's not my fault you went snooping," says Deirdre. "I had damn good reason, as you well know!" shrieks Gail. At that moment Dr Carter steps out of his office and asks why it is that every time he opens his door Gail's there having a row with someone. Gail immediately looks chastened, and asks for a quick word. Deirdre interrupts, checking the computer and announcing that Dr Carter is booked up till 12 o'clock and then has a clinic to run. Deirdre could fit her in a week next Tuesday? Gail glares at her and then starts to talk to the doctor there and then, saying she knows the situation got a bit heated, but up till then her work record was unblemished. Could she be reinstated? Dr Carter tells her that Natasha has filed a formal complaint and he has to do everything by the book. Gail tries to explain that she was in an impossible situation. He replies that it was still a serious breach of trust. She asks if he can give her a reference. He shakes his head, saying he's sorry. Gail turns and walks away as Deirdre asks Dr Carter if he'd like a nice cup of tea and a couple of gypsy creams. "Thanks Deirdre, you're a treasure," he says.

In the Webster house, Sian and Sophie are discussing school, how much they've missed and what they're going to tell the teachers. "Sophie and Sian were absent because they've been struck down with lesbianitis!" jokes Sophie. Sally doesn't look amused and reminds them that they're seeing the head at 10.30.

Sean is loudly commenting on Nick's situation with Natasha when he comes down the steps and hears him. He tells him sharply to get on with his work. "Oh sorry Nicky, am I being a bit of trouble to you today. It must be due to my hands flapping, what with being so limp-wrested," retorts Sean. "Get on with your work," snaps Nick. Trevor approaches Carla and remarks that she's hardly said two words to him all morning. "Can we not do this here," says Carla. He suggests he makes an appointment. Nick comes along and before too long he and Trevor are involved in some mud-slinging.

Norris shows Rita some adverts for CCTV cameras. They've been fleeced and he doesn't intend to let it happen again. Just then Tina comes in carrying an arrangement of flowers and some champagne, and tells Rita they're for her, the delivery man just dropped them off. The card reads: I thought you needed cheering up - regards from a friend. Norris remarks that it looks like someone's got a guilty conscience and has had their hand in their pocket - or someone else's pocket. Tina asks if he's having digs at her. "I don't know, am I?" says Norris. He goes on to say how Rita's credit card details were stolen at the time Tina came to stay, and his details stolen at the same time that Graham came to stay at Emily's. He refers to them as Bonnie and Clye, and Tina loses her patience. "You can stuff your flaming job!" she snaps and storms out.

Sophie and Sian are with Sally in the headmaster's office. He asks why they've missed so much school. Sally says they've had personal problems, but she doesn't want to explain - it's personal. He says he's heard the rumours. Sally says that the girls have had a difficult time. He says they've missed so much there's no hope of them catching up. "Doesn't that just suit you fine!" snaps Sally, and accuses him of not wanting them at school because of the way they are. The girls haven't been on a mad bender, drinking and taking drugs, they're a couple of decent, hardworking girls who just happen to have fallen in love with each other. "We're not all the same," she tells him, "and if you took your head out of your backside for one minute you might realise that!"

In the factory, Nick shouts at Trevor for sending garments to packing before they'd been checked. This results in Trevor landing a punch on Nick, much to the shock of all the factory staff. "Get out, you're sacked!" shouts Nick. "No he's not!" Carla butts in. Nick tells her to back off, but she tells Trevor to go and sit in the office and calm down, and then get off home. Nick goes to walk away, she calls him back. "You might be able to order your little gimp around but not me," snaps Nick and walks off.

In the pub, Claire tells Becky and Betty about her mother's holiday romance, and shows pictures of the new man. Just then Audrey and Gail come in and Betty asks if she's seen Natasha today. Audrey explains that Natasha has left Weatherfield for good. Betty's sympathies lie with Natasha, but Gail says that she led Nick a merry dance. Becky says she can't believe Gail read her private medical stuff. Gail says she hasn't read anybody else's records. "Are you sure?" asks Becky. Gail protests that she had to do something, Natasha said she was pregnant when she wasn't.

Tina is in the café, mangling an empty tin. David sees her and makes a joke, but Tina isn't laughing. She then tells him about Norris thinking she and Graeme had robbed him and Rita. David sits down and sympathises, and then soon has Tina grinning with his jokes and impersonations of Norris.

Nick is licking his wounds over a drink in the Rovers with Audrey. Leanne comes in and while she's standing at the bar, Audrey comments on how supportive she's been. Nick says she's been a good friend. "Really?" says Audrey, "is that all she is?" Nick wants to know why she's asking, and Audrey tells him it was something Natasha said. "Natasha said a lot of things, most of them rubbish," says Nick. Audrey moves to go and sit with Gail, and Leanne comes and sits with Nick.

Becky and Betty are discussing Gail and her situation. Gail, across the room, knows they're talking about her, and tells Audrey she wishes she had someone to fight her corner, someone to be on her side.

Carla goes to find Trevor who is in the kebab shop, eating. She's exasperated with him, wonders why on earth he hit Nick in front of loads of witnesses. "He'll be even more determined to get shot of you now," she says. "To be honest, Carla, I couldn't care less," mutters Trevor, staring out of the window.

Gail takes some flowers to Joe's grave, to find Tina already there, also with flowers. As they arrange them they talk together quietly, and then Gail suggests that Tina goes home with her and they'll crack open a bottle of wine and reminisce.

In the Kabin, Norris is still pondering on the credit card theft. He makes a mental list: means, motive and opportunity. Tina and Graeme fit the bill. Rita is adamant that Tina wouldn't steal from them, she's a decent girl. Norris thinks she must have been led astray by her jailbird boyfriend, he'll phone the police and tell them what he knows. Rita insists he's barking up the wrong tree.

David comes home and finds his mum and Tina knocking back the wine. "Half cut and it's not even tea time," he says. They tell him they're celebrating the life and times of Joe McIntyre. They joke around a little, laughing.

Someone else taking a trip down memory lane is Sally. Sophie comes in and finds her looking through a photo album with pictures of herself as a baby. Sally tells her she would have died if anything had happened to her, she loved her that much. "All you want to do is protect your kids," she tells her. Sophie starts to get tearful, but tells her mother it was good, the way she stuck up for her. Sally says it's a tough world out there, and being any kind of different is dangerous. Sophie says she knows. Sally wishes she had a magic wand and could make her 'normal' but she can't. In time they'll get used to a different sort of normal.

David has walked Tina home to her flat. She offers him a beer and they sit down, chatting. She tells him that the one thing he's got going for him is his sense of humour. "It always worked for me," she says. "Why did it stop working then?" asks David. There's a pause, and then she says she's sorry how things turned out. They had a thing, and then it was over, that's how it goes. David tells her he never stopped caring for her. Tina hastily changes the subject. "I'm starving, I'll have to crack open that box of cereal."

Nick goes into the factory to find Carla working on her own in the office. She tells him she was expecting an apology from him. Nick wants to know what he's got to apologise for. "Winding everybody up, all of the time," she says, adding that she's glad Trevor landed one on him. Angrily, Nick tells her she made a really bad decision. She got her bit of rough in there and gave him tasks that wouldn't even challenge a chimpanzee, and now she's blaming Nick because it's all gone wrong. He's cross that she overruled him in front of everybody. "we're supposed to be equal partners and you treat me like dirt!" He tells her it's never going to work, she's always got to be top dog, she's not happy unless she's lording it over everybody else. Then he tells her it's over, he's out of there for good. Carla stares, amazed, as he storms out.

Back in the flat, Tina and David are eating cereal. He says he didn't mean to sound all heavy or anything. "No worries," says Tina. He goes on to say that they had something special and you don't get that very often. She tells him it was very intense. He thinks that was good. "Are you getting off in a minute?" she says. He says he doesn't have to go. "Yes, you do," she says. He tells her she can say what she likes, it was never boring, and then he lunges as if to kiss her. She jumps up. "Right, that's it," she snaps, pushing him towards the door. He protests that she's been flirting with him all evening, finally he's giving her what she wants. He steps towards her and she hits his shoulders. "Get off me!" she says, but he pushes her backwards over the arm of the sofa and falls down on top of her, gripping her wrists. "Get off!" she says. "No," he replies, "I love you." She asks if he's going to rape her now, and he stops in his tracks. After a pause he jumps up and heads off out of the door.

Anne Logan



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