Sitting round the breakfast table at Peter's, Carla tells Simon she thinks it was very brave of him to admit he'd told fibs. Peter huffs that he shouldn't have lied in the first place. Simon shouts that he's said sorry. Carla swiftly tells them both that's the end of it, and gets a reluctant Simon to shake on it. She then promises to make his favourite meal, spag bol, for tea.

Over at the pub, Stella tells Leanne she can stay as long as she likes. Eva tells her they'll have her paying rent like she does, and Karl jokes they want it every Monday or she's out on her ear. Leanne says she's happy to pay something, and so Stella says maybe she can do a couple of shifts behind the bar. "That'll be great," says Leanne, but somehow doesn't sound convinced. It's then discovered that there's no milk left, so Leanne jumps up and offers to go to Dev's to get some.

Outside, Peter and Simon are just setting off to school when Simon spots Leanne and rushes over. He says he's sorry for lying. Leanne cuddles him and tells him she knows things are a bit weird for him just now, but he must never, ever lie. "Liars never win, do they Peter?" she says. Just then Peter sees someone looking in the windows of the bookies, and calls to ask if he can help. The man is Len Howe, he's from the Gambling Commission, he's looking for Peter Barlow because they've had a complaint and he needs to do a spot check. Leanne offers to take Simon to school and off they go.

In the factory, Sally is moaning to Anne, unhappy with the way she feels Carla speaks to her. Frank wanders in, saying he's been to a breakfast meeting with the accountant. Sally tells Frank she rang him last night, but he didn't pick up. He tells her he had a bath and went to bed – it was bliss.

Lewis is on his way to court. He comes past the salon and sees Audrey outside, sweeping the pavement. He tells her he's come to say goodbye – he may go to prison. She says she never wanted that.

In the bookies', Mr Howe is going through Peter's books and finding a few minor discrepancies. He also points out that if Peter was to have Simon in the shop during opening hours, that would be a major breach of regulations. Peter assures him that it doesn't happen.

Over at the factory, Anne is annoyed by Carla's attitude, and Frank doesn't appear to care. She asks her son where he was, as they both know he didn't go home last night. He scathingly tells her that he doesn't have to report to her 24/7, and reaches over to pick something up. "Where's your dad's watch?" she exclaims, "you never take it off!" He retorts that he forgot to put it on after his morning shower, and glares at her. She picks up her coat and bag, she might as well take the rest of the day off. The workforce have gone to lunch and Frank tells Sally he's off to the Rovers for a bite to eat.

Outside, Eileen and Beth are on their way to the pub when Eileen spots Paul and Lesley eating chips, so she rushes over. Paul tells her that he's been warned that he could lose his job if he takes any more time off, and they still haven't found another carer.

Jenny arrives at the factory to see Carla, so Carla sends a protesting Sally off to lunch. Jenny says she has a proposition she's sure Carla will love. They go into the office and shut the door.

In the pub, Beth is complaining to Tracy that she didn't get anywhere with Steve. Tracy tells her to keep at it, before she knows it he'll be putty in her hands.

Peter goes into the pub and asks Leanne if she can pick Simon up from school, as the guy from the gambling commission looks like he's going to be there a long time. He wonders if it was Karl who stitched him up, but Karl says he's no grass. Leanne tells Peter to go and take his misery somewhere else.

Sally tells Frank that Carla's visitor was a Jenny something....and was talking about a new proposition. Frank's response is just that if it's new orders, then he's delighted.

Back at the factory, Jenny is trying to persuade Carla to set up on her own. She'll give her plenty of work, more than enough to cover what she'll lose if she takes Frank's low offer. Just then Frank walks into the office so Carla cuts her meeting short and shows Jenny out.

Ken and Deirdre visit Tracy to see the house now it's been put back to normal. Deirdre admires a pottery jug she sees on the table, and then Craig comes in. He tells her that he made it, at school.

Eileen sees Sally in the street and asks if she can take next week off, to deal with the family situation. Sally refuses, telling her they're too busy, it's impossible.

Back at Tracy's, Craig tells Deirdre that it was his granddad that first got him interested in pottery. Just then Beth comes in and tells Ken that he used to teach her at school. Tracy walks back into the room and Ken says he thought they could go for a drink at the Rovers. "Count me in!" says Beth, and goes off to change. Tracy isn't pleased.

In the back room of the pub, Simon is tucking into a meal that Leanne has made him. Just then Peter arrives and is horrified that Simon is eating when Carla is going to make him his special tea, and tries to drag him away by the arm. Simon protests, he wants to finish this tea, Leanne grabs his other arm and Eva, who's also at the table, jumps up too. They all shout at Peter to let Simon finish his tea.

Ken, Tracy, Deirdre and Beth are enjoying their drink, when suddenly all hell is let loose as the row over Simon spills out to the bar, like a tug-of-war with Simon in the middle. Simon yells that he hates Peter, and Leanne wonders loudly what she ever saw in him. Deirdre jumps up and says that maybe Simon should stay with them tonight, and Ken tells Peter sternly that the mess is his and Carla's and he must never dare to take it out on Simon. Somewhat abashed, Peter leaves in a hurry, alone.

Back at the flat, Carla is chopping onions for the spag bol, while on the phone to Jenny and arranging to meet her tomorrow. We then see that Jenny has been making the call from Frank's living room. She turns to him. "Hook, line and sinker!" she says, adding that before he was cleared she had her doubts about the rape accusation, but now she's seen how ruthless Carla can be. It's people like her who give business women a bad name. As she goes to leave she gives Frank back his watch, he'd left it on her bedside cabinet. As he shuts the door behind her, he turns and sees his mother on the stairs. "I thought you'd gone out," he says. "Evidently," she replies, and suggests they open a bottle of wine and he can tell her exactly what he's up to.

Audrey is at Gail's house, wondering what happened to Lewis in court, when there's a knock at the door. It's Lewis, he was found guilty and given 40 hours of community service. Audrey offers him wine, much to Gail's annoyance, but he refuses, saying he needs an early night, he'll probably be spending tomorrow with a broom in his hand.

Anne is pouring wine and asking Frank why he's leading Sally on. After all, she stood by him and not many women would have done that. He tells her he doesn't want wine and she should mind her own business, they wouldn't want her outstaying her welcome, would they?

Carla has made the spaghetti bolognese when Peter arrives home and has to explain that he had to ask Leanne to pick Simon up from school and that's why he's still at the pub. Carla wants to know why he didn't ask her to pick Simon up. Peter shouts at her that it was because of what happened last time and goes on to tell her how Simon had a massive tantrum in the pub in front of everybody and told him he hated him. Carla snaps that the whole thing hasn't been easy for her, working with the man who raped her, and tells Peter to stop wallowing in it. She slams out of the flat. Peter flings himself down on the sofa and finds himself sitting on her bag. He fumbles around and finds a bottle of whisky in it. He looks at it for a moment or two and then unscrews the top, and drinks straight from the bottle.

Anne Logan.

Welcome to another Friday update, in which I shall be delivering whacks upside the head to a number of characters. They all deserve it.

We begin at Frank's house where he's on the phone arranging a weekend for two in Paris. He'll be taking Jenny. Ann urges him to tell Sally the truth but Frank says he'll do that when he's ready. "You can't just use people and throw them away!" she tells him. Frank's answer is to tell her Jenny will be there tonight and it would be a good thing if Ann was away visiting her sister. [Whack! That's to knock some sense into Ann's head]

Sally's very bright for early in the morning, which Sophie thinks is not a good thing. Sally's wearing a new power suit to wow Frank. "Men like him don't come along every day." [Whack! See previous comment but for Sally's head]

At the cafe, Peter and Carla snarl at each other for a bit before Peter admits he's in no position to criticise her for drinking. They sort of make up.

Lewis has been put to good use for a change and, complete with fetching orange safety vest, is working with other criminals removing old posters from a brick wall. Norris is sure this isn't nearly punishment enough. Lewis thinks Norris is alone in that opinion. Norris is sure everyone thinks the same as he does and turns to ask The Man In The Street. Unfortunately, that happens to be Jason, who really doesn't care. "Just ignore him. It's easier," is Jason's advice to Lewis. That does not help Norris's mood.

In the factory, Carla makes an appointment with Jenny. Frank watches in amusement and manages to hint that he was the person who reported Peter to the Gambling Commission. Dennis reads some personal ads to Rita. She doesn't like the sound of them and wonders why Dennis is trying to set her up with someone. Dennis doesn't like seeing her going to waste. She just has time to ask whether he's been taking charm lessons from Norris when Norris walks in. He's rude to Dennis and practically calls him work-shy [Whack! Just because it's Norris]. Dennis says if Norris needs help he just needs to ask, so Norris asks and gives Dennis a large sack of papers to deliver because a paperboy has called in sick.

Carla meets Jenny in the bistro. Jenny has prepared a draft contract so Carla can see the kind of figures they're talking about. She's also bought a bottle of wine. Carla takes a glass. It would be rude not to.

In the cafe, Eileen and Paul talk across Lesley about her care. Paul's found a new carer but they can't start for another week. He'll have to throw a few more sickies. Eileen says she'd take more time off work if she could. Sally's been eavesdropping and jumps in to say that if Eileen needs some extra time off she'll square it with Frank.

Back at the bistro, Carla's gone to the loo and Jenny sends Frank a text message: "I think we've got her." Carla comes back and now seems reluctant to sign the deal. She wants the weekend to think about it. After all, if Jenny's that keen she won't mind waiting another 48 hours.

At the betting shop, Ken comes to see Peter. He's worried about Simon. He thinks Peter's so wrapped up in his new relationship with Carla that he can't see what it's doing to Simon. Peter has a go at Ken for being a bad father and for lecturing him. He says he'll make his own decisions about his own son and his own life and orders Ken out of the shop.

Lewis is at the bistro. No, I don't know how he managed to change from his cleaning-off-posters clothes to his nice suit, but he has. Nick wants to show him to a table. Gail wants to tar and feather him and tip him in the canal, or something similar. Nick tells her that Lewis has a right to be a customer and shows him to a table. The reviewer from the Gazette - the same reviewer who almost ate Gail's fingernail - is coming along later and Nick doesn't want any trouble.

Ann's at the factory. She tells Frank and Sally she's going off to see her sister and wants to work in the office until it's time to go to the station. Frank gets a phone call from Jenny and arranges to meet her at his place in 15 minutes. He's very rude to Julie on his way out.

Eileen takes a reluctant Lesley for a walk. Jason drives past and toots the horn, which really freaks out Lesley. Once she's calmed down, Jason apologises but makes it clear to Eileen he thinks she's an idiot for putting up with this situation.

Sally has set up Ann at her own desk in the office. Frank's phone goes. It's a message about the Paris hotel. Sally's face beams - Frank must be planning a surprise for her. Ann looks at her with pity.

At Frank's house, Jenny explains that Carla's just being careful. She tells Frank that he's always the gentlest of men with her but when Carla's name is mentioned he changes.

Peter has a bottle of whisky. And a glass. And now he has a glass with no whisky in it. He hurriedly hides the bottle as Carla comes home. Carla wants to ask him for advice on the deal Jenny's offering. Yep. Of course the right person to ask for business advice is the bookie who thinks it's OK to close up shop whenever he feels like it. [Whack!]

Dennis is back from his paper round. He's enjoyed a long walk and a drink at the Flying Horse when he finished. Rita invites him to lunch with her at the bistro. Norris is sarcastic and Dennis says Norris's girl Mary might invite him for a bite in her motorhome. Norris angrily tells him that he and Mary are just acquaintances. Rita really enjoys seeing Dennis bait Norris. "You are awful," she tells him. "Yeah, but you like me!" he says.

Lewis has finished his lunch and is paying compliments to the chef when Audrey arrives. She chats to him but Gail manages to start an argument [Whack! just because it's Gail!]. Nick and Lewis try to intervene and, of course, the reviewer arrives in the middle of it all.

Peter thinks the deal sounds great. Carla isn't sure she wants to take it. The factory was hers to start with and if Frank buys her out then she feels that he's won. Peter thinks she should just sell up and walk away. Carla has an inkling that Frank might be up to something. She tells Peter she's pretty sure it was Frank who reported him to the Gambling Commission. Peter gets a sudden urge to see what Frank's face looks like with his fist in it but Carla manages to calm him down and prevent him going off and doing something stupid. She tells him that she and Simon both need him. She kisses him and realises he's been drinking.

In the factory, Ann's going to go for a cab, though Sally suggests Frank would give her a lift. She tells Ann that Frank needs her support. "You should cut him some slack." This riles Ann, who calls Sally stupid and deluded. "You're too blind to see what's going on under your own nose," she says. Sally's sure Frank feels something for her - after all, he's booked a weekend in Paris. "Why don't you ask Frank who he's actually planning to take," she says. "And don't come crying to me when you find out I was right." With that, she rushes off to get a taxi.

This is The End of the first episode.

Margaret Carr

Written by Martin Allen
Directed by Alan Grint

Peter and Carla are bickering in the flat. They are arguing about Peter's drinking, losing his business, Peter's drinking, Simon hating him and Peter's drinking. Carla has no sympathy, and tells him that nothing is going to improve until he stops drinking.

In the Bistro, Greg, the restaurant reviewer has arrived, and Nick is trying to welcome him, however, Gail is all over him like a rash, trying to make up for leaving a fingernail in his food the last time. Greg however hasn't forgotten her, in fact she is ingrained on his memory with a six foot chisel, and obviously doesn't want her to serve him. Nick immediately offers him a glass of wine on the house, and just at that point, Lewis steps up and politely recommends the Chablis, explaining the finer points of the particular brand carried by the Bistro. Greg is impressed, so Lewis tells Gail to fetch him a glass. The two of them have an enjoyable conversation about the merits of various fine wines until Gail returns with the glass, Greg sips and is very taken with Lewis' choice indeed. Gail's face looks like a smacked backside.

Carla has arrived at Number 1, and asks Ken and Deirdre if they would mind having Simon that night. Deirdre sarcastically asks her if the novelty of motherhood has worn off already. Ken asks if there is a particular reason why Simon is not going home yet again, and Carla just says that she and Peter need to spend some time together. Deirdre retorts that it's Simon they should be spending time with. Carla replies that she knows, but that she and Peter have a lot to talk through. Ken tells her that they will have him, much to Deirdre's amazement, she stands there with her mouth open that Ken is agreeing so easily. Carla thanks them both and quickly leaves before she has to explain any more.

Frank is hurrying to his car, and Sally is running alongside making suggestions as to how they could spend the evening together, even though Frank has told her he has too much to do. She suggests fixing a meal while he gets on with his work, and witters on until he finally looks her in the eye and tells her in no uncertain terms that they are not seeing each other tonight. When he sees the hurt look on her face, he softens the blow by telling her that when he is snowed under with work like this, he is best left alone, he then kisses her on the cheek before he drives away. He calls out to her that they will speak over the weekend, letting her know he is not planning to see her until next week.

In the Bistro, Nick rushes up to Lewis and begs him to give Greg a bit more of his charm between the starter and the main course. Lewis is pleased to do it, and Audrey is obviously delighted that Nick is so impressed with the man she is secretly impressed with too. During the course of conversation, Greg asks Lewis if he is the Maître D', as he seems to be so knowledgeable about everything, but Lewis explains that he just helps out now and again. Nick is delighted with the way Lewis is handling this very special customer. In another part of the restaurant, Rita and Dennis are enjoying a meal, and notice Lewis. Rita asks Gail why he is talking to the customers, but Gail tells her she wouldn't know, she only works there.

Dennis is curious to know all about Lewis, and Rita is more than happy to fill him in on all the sordid details from swindling the money from the bookies, to taking Audrey for a ride. She says the latter just as Audrey is passing their table, and Rita tells her that she had better not be taken in again. Audrey replies that they had both better watch their step this time. Dennis immediately wants to know what she meant, so Rita has to admit that she had used Lewis' services as an escort in the past.

Sally is sitting on the sofa, still looking very upset over Frank's rejection. She barely hears Sophie telling her they are going to the pictures, and will be back by 11 p.m. Sophie goes on to ask Sally if she going out tonight, and Sally, looking as if she has reached a decision, tells her that she just might.

Out on the street, Ken is returning from the Corner Shop with Simon's favourite cereal when he bumps into Carla. She thanks him again for having Simon, and he tells her that he really doesn't want to interfere, but is there and willing to listen if there is a problem she would like to talk over with him. She suggests a meeting in the factory in about twenty minutes.

Frank is coming into the living room with a couple of glasses of wine for himself and Jenny, who has made herself very comfortable on the sofa. Frank is worried that Carla is not going to fall for their scam, but Jenny is convinced that she is just playing hard to get, and will be only too willing to accept by Monday. She then tells him to stop worrying, and just live in the moment. Which is a polite way of saying "Let's get it on". Frank is not adverse to that idea, and things are hotting up on the sofa when the doorbell rings. Jenny tells him to leave it, that they will go away, and the doorbell rings again. Part one reaches a conclusion with a shot of Sally standing outside the door with her finger on the bell, and she has seen Jenny's car.

Part two begins with Carla and Ken in the factory. She tells him right off the bat that Peter is drinking again, and asks if Ken has any suggestions. The first thing he tells her is that she should give up drinking herself, which horrifies her. But he goes on to say that she has to realise what it means to live with an alcoholic, and that she can't continuously put temptation in his way. She is a bit put out that it is all about him, and Ken tells her that as far as alcohol is concerned, it is all about him as that is one side of him. The other side is Simon, and that she has to accept both of those sides if she is going to make a go of it with Peter.

Carla has trouble with this, and tells Ken that she is really trying, but it seems that everything is one sided. Ken has no sympathy for her, and tells her that it probably won't be an equal relationship, and if she wants to make a go of things, she will have to put Peter and Simon before her work. She asks what will happen if she is not prepared to do that, and Ken tells her that in that case, he can't see things working out.

Sally is inside the house now, asking Frank why he is doing this to her when he had told her he loved her, and that they had been planning a future together. Before he has a chance to answer, Jenny tells Frank she is going home. Sally warns her that if he will cheat on her, (Sally) he will also do the same to her. Jenny just smirks at her and kisses Frank, telling him to call her. After she leaves, Sally screams at him that she wants some answers.

Greg has really enjoyed his meal, and is on his way. Lewis asks him if everything was to his satisfaction, and Greg gushes that the food was wonderful and the service was immaculate. He goes on to say that they are not going to be disappointed in his review. Nick preens, and tells him to come back anytime. Just then Gail appears and asks him if he enjoyed his dinner, he tells her sternly that it was a great improvement on his last visit. Gail begins to apologise, but Nick cuts her off and sends her scuttling off to serve another customer, and Lewis shakes his hand, and tells him to come back very soon. After he has gone, Nick hires Lewis on the spot as Head Waiter, and a Smoother Over of Tricky Situations Person. Lewis is delighted to accept, and Audrey is pretty delighted too.

Sally is still trying to get some answers out of Frank, but all he has told her so far is that the thing with Jenny happened very quickly. She is trying to stay angry, but the hurt is showing on her face and in her voice, as she tells him that she had been so sure that the trip to Paris was for them. She goes on to tell him that she was so in love with him. Frank looks as if he is getting bored with the conversation now, and just shakes his head, and says "I'm sorry" and walks away from her. Sally has not finished however, and she follows him, pointing out that she had been there for him every step of the way, when his father died, through the trial, she had given up all her friends for him, and now had been ditched when she was of no further use. Frank replies that it is not how it was, but his bored expression tells us that he really doesn't give a damn and probably never did. However, he then tells her that he did have genuine feelings for her, but she is not convinced, she replies that she is sure he had this planned all along, and as she will never believe anything he tells her again he might as well save his breath. Frank then shrugs and tells her that there is no more to discuss then. Sally agrees, then tells him that she will go back to her quiet life, and keep her mouth shut about what he is planning at the factory. "In your dreams", says our Sal.

In number 11, Leslie is having a lovely time, dancing to one of the oldies, which is triggering memories of a certain boy she had a crush on in school. She remembers everything vividly, and is excitedly telling Eileen all about him, right down to the type and colour of the clothes he wore. Paul arrives home, and is genuinely delighted to see Leslie enjoying herself so much. In the kitchen he asks Eileen about their day, and she tells him that Leslie had had a bit of a melt down in the Red Rec, so they had to come home, then she kept asking when Margaret was coming, so Eileen put some old music on, and she had been fine ever since. Paul explains that although she can't remember things that happened five minutes ago, she can recall everything that happened on her sixteenth birthday. He kisses Eileen on the cheek and thanks her for all she has done for Leslie. Eileen smiles and tells him she will think of a way he can repay her. (nudge nudge, wink wink)

Back at Frank's, he is reminding Sally of the confidentiality clause she had signed when she started with the firm. Sally is not too bothered about that, so he reminds her that contracting the work out for the Leyton order had been her idea, and he will not hesitate to let the rest of the workers know that it was she who lost them their jobs, and they will hate her more than they do already. Sally tells him that his threatening look doesn't scare her, so he then moves in close to her and tells her that it should, because the last woman who crossed him lived to regret it. Sally is scared now, and asks him if he is saying he raped Carla. He replies that of course he isn't saying that, all he is saying is that when she tried to fight him, she bit off more than she could chew. He then whispers menacingly "Be warned".

In the Bistro, Gail is having a go at Nick for hiring Lewis. She warns him that money will go missing from the till. Nick tells her that it was a no-brainer to hire him after seeing him with the customers, unlike her who leaves nails in their soup. Dennis and Rita are finished with their meal, and have called for the bill. Rita catches Audrey's glaring eye, and can't figure out why she looks like that. Dennis tells her that it must be because she is paying yet again, after Rita had accused Audrey of allowing Lewis to sponge off her, and she can now see Dennis is doing the same thing. Rita tells him that is ridiculous, and besides it's her business what she does with her money. But it is bothering Dennis, who tells her that Norris had also had a go at him over it, and he tells Rita he is no better than Lewis. Rita responds by telling him that he is twice the man Lewis is. Dennis tells Rita that he cannot go on living off her, and that first thing in the morning, he intends to find himself a job.

Carla arrives back at the flat in time to see Peter pouring himself another drink, she is not pleased about it one bit. She tells him that he could at least pretend to be making an effort, but he can't see the point of that when things are such a mess. She tells him that Simon is staying with his grandparents overnight, so Peter asks if she has set that up so they can get hammered. Carla takes the bottle away from him, and screws the cap on firmly, telling him that they are going to sort things out. She then tells him that she has decided she can't fight both him and Frank at the same time, as it's too much for her. Peter is scared that she is going to dump him, but she assures him that although she has thought about it, she loves him too much. She goes on to tell him that she has decided to sell to Frank and go with Jenny. Peter tells her that he thinks that is a brilliant idea, but she tells him she can't do it all alone, that she needs his support in their relationship and her relationship with Simon. He assures her that they will do it together, and kisses her. Carla then tells him she will call Jenny right now to give her the good news.

Sally bursts into her house in panic, and frantically bolts the door behind her. She calls out to Sophie, but she is not home yet, so she rushes to the window and quickly draws the curtains. Sitting down on the sofa, she clutches a cushion to her stomach and breaks down in floods of tears as the credits roll.

I know Dennis was homeless, but doesn't he have an old age pension to draw? He is past retirement age after all, is living rent free, has it been explained somewhere why he never has any money? Maybe I missed it.

Christine Warren

Written By Jonathan Harvey Directed By Griff Rowland

Tonight's first episode is leading up to yet another dead body in the factory of doom.

We start off with Sally who's devastated and being comforted by Sophie. Sally has had her world crash down around her. She realizes that Frank was just using her and didn't love her at all. He's a liar, she says but doesn't explain further. She goes upstairs to wash that man out of her hair.

Peter is hungover and necking painkillers. Carla asks if he's going to the support group. Uh Yeah. (Uh No). Carla tells him that she's selling out to Frank. She needs to focus on less stressful things and they can get their lives back on track after today. She's also meeting Jenny earlier in the day. She assures him that she believes in him and them. He moans and hangs his aching head and she leaves. HE reaches behind him where there's a bottle stashed behind a cushion on the sofa. Yep, he opens it and starts all over again.

Stella invites Leanne for a girly morning but she's not up for it. Stella and Karl exchange a few hard words about something to do with the pub. He'd only had some thoughts but she isn't in a mind to entertain listening to them.

In the back room of the Kabin, Rita asks Dennis, who's out in the shop, if he was serious about getting a job. She looks crestfallen when he says he's sponged off her long enough and is going to the job centre. She pastes on a smile and comes out. Mary comes bouncing into the shop all excited. All because it's Norris's birthday it seems. She invites them to the Rovers for drinks and nibbles later.

Peter leans on the door frame of Number 1, and when Deirdre answers it, he insists on seeing Simon. She castigates him for being drunk, a detail that Frank has noted from across the street. Peter slurs and Deirdre refuses to let him take Simon back. She pushes him out of the doorway as Frank makes an inquiry as to if everything is ok. Peter mumbles about Frank minding his own business.

Kevin answers his mobile. It's Sophie telling him all about what's happened to Sally. He promises to come over.

In a car, Jenny and Carla are chatting. Carla promises she's ready to sign on the dotted line and set up with her. She gets out and Jenny looks triumphant.

Sally comes downstairs to find Sophie and Kevin. He says he's just there to make sure she's ok. Kevin asks Sophie to leave and turns to a tearful Sally. He realizes there's more to it and assumes the worst but she says nothing like that happened to her. She says he dumped her and intimidated her, scared her and has been cheating on her. And she tells Kevin that Frank as much as said he raped Carla. Kevin starts strutting and hollering and threatening to kill Frank. Sally shouts at him not to have anything to do with Frank. She can't have him getting into trouble.

In the pub, one of Karl's old mates, Tez, comes in and there seems to be a deal about to take place. Sure enough, Karl tells Sunita that his mate is going to install a huge new telly for sports viewing. He thinks Stella won't mind and it will be good for business. Hmm. Ya think?

Frank is finishing a phone call, likely from Jenny who's given him the heads up about Carla's decision just as Carla arrives in the office. He pretends to try to persuade her to take his offer. She says she's decided to and wants it done today. He says the papers are already drawn up. He puts out his hand but she doesn't take it.

Rita, Emily, Norris and Mary arrive at the pub for Norris' birthday do. They look on the enormous telly in horror as Karl fires it up. 800 channels, Karl is nearly drooling over it.

In the factory, the girls are wondering where Sally is. Carla comes out to tell them all that she's selling her share to Frank. She muses about all the good times they've had there (um... dead bodies, explosions, murder and more to come!) She tells them she just can't work with Frank anymore and hopes they understand. She leaves them and goes into the office, followed by a furious Michelle who reckons Frank has won. Carla tells her about the order she's got with Jenny Sumner and that will make up for it all. Outside, Frank is on the phone with Jenny and they are both excited. Frank mentions sacking all the workers next week.

After the break, Sean and Marcus have returned from a holiday. Eileen introduces them to Lesley who is highly alarmed and starts screaming at the lads to get out of her house. They back out of the lounge and go into the bedroom while Eileen calms Lesley down.

Carla comes home and finds Peter drunk. He blames the argument with Deirdre. He says the gambling commission are on his back too. He rambles and rants. She goes to him and starts to help him straighten his clothes. He wants to go with her when she signs the contract but she won't allow it, not in his condition.

In the pub, the birthday party is disturbed by the level of the sound on the big telly. Emily mutters that Annie Walker would be turning in her grave at the sight of that telly. Stella comes in and sees it and orders him to take it down. Dennis follows her in to greet the birthday boy. He's not found a job yet but is optimistic. Stella hollers at Karl. He doesn't get this pub, doesn't get their punters and he doesn't "get" her. He drags her outside to see the satellite dish, which is the size of a small planet. Karl indicates to Tez to keep on installing.

Frank has his car in the garage and asks Tyrone if it's ready. Tyrone says Kevin hasn't finished it. Frank is determined he's having it, ready or not. He's taking it later on.

Kevin has brought Sally in to the pub for a drink to settle her nerves. Beth makes a nasty remark to Sally for skiving. She goes over to hear them talking about Frank and tells them he doesn't care about them and is going to outsource their work. Michelle is stunned to hear it.

In the factory, Anne has returned from her weekend away. Frank mentions he couldn't pick her up because his car is being serviced. Carla arrives to sign the papers but is followed by a staggering Peter. Frank hands her the contracts and a pen. She looks them over.

In the pub, the workers are all upset. Michelle tells them about Jenny's order. Sally blows that sky high, telling them that Frank and Jenny are having an affair. It's a scam! Michelle jumps up to run to the factory to stop Carla signing. The girls are left stunned.

Carla signs the contracts. Michelle is too late. She and Sally have run in but it's done and dusted. Carla smugly announces that she's setting up with Jenny Sumner. Frank is dismissive. Michelle tries to tell them the news but Jenny arrives. Frank says there is no order and Underworld is his!

Tvor

Written by Joe Turner and directed by Griff Rowland

Jenny is explaining to Carla how Frank made her an offer she couldn't refuse, Sally is butting in to tell Carla that she only knew what was going on the day before and Peter is sounding like a walrus in severe pain as he tells Ann that she gave birth to "that monster". When Frank reveals he was the one who made the phone call to the gambling commission, it takes the combined efforts of Carla, Michelle and Sally to stop Peter from strangling Frank with his bare hands. Carla persuades Peter to go home while Michelle verbalises their combined thoughts by telling Frank that he is total scum. For a brief moment it looks as though Frank is going to speak kindly to Sally until he cruelly points out that their relationship was never going to last and then he asks Michelle to take her home because she's upsetting his Mum.

In the Rovers Karl is searching for the remote. Sean comments that you go away for five minutes and the world goes mad. Hayley fills him in on what's happening at the factory, Beth introduces herself as the new girl and Julie enlightens him with news of her pregnancy.

Back at the factory the only ones left are Ann, Frank and Jenny. Frank observes that his mother is very quiet. She attempts to sound all bright and breezy, saying that they can all work at running the new factory together but Frank is more interested in finding out why she spilled the beans to Sally about him and Jenny. While Jenny listens in the background, Frank tells his mother to pack her stuff and go, he's got his life back and he doesn't need her any more. Not really what any mother wants to hear from her son, even if he is evil personified.

We return to the Rovers where the older generation are discussing their favourite decade. Karl is trying to work out why his monstrosity of a new flatscreen telly has suddenly gone quieter; he still can't find the remote. Sally comes in but when Kevin tries to talk to her she shakes him off and tells him to leave it. Michelle breaks the news to the girls that it's too late and Carla has already signed the contract. Karl continues to search for his remote and is furious when he discovers Stella's been hiding it all along. As the girls discuss what they're going to do about the factory their conversation is suddenly drowned out by the sports commentary blaring out from Karl's telly, so Hayley suggests they should all move over to the café where they'll be able to hear themselves speak. Stella does her best to dissuade them but the workers are all fired up and need to go somewhere they can make plans.

Peter and Carla have returned to the flat and he's shouting at her in a drunken rage about the mess that's been caused by Frank. He tells her she should have let him hit Frank. By now Carla is shouting back at him and she goes to the cupboard and pulls out a bottle of whiskey. When Peter slams down a mug next to her glass she pours out an enormous slug for each of them.

Out in the street, Frank escorts Jenny across to her car and openly kisses her before she gets in. At that moment Leanne emerges from Dev's shop and Frank runs across the road to tell her that he's bought the factory from Carla. She says she couldn't care less so he tells her something which might interest her a bit more: he reveals that Peter is back on the booze again. He says that if she doesn't want to take his word for it she should ask Deirdre.

Paul returns to Eileen's house where she is sitting on the sofa watching tv with Lesley. To their horror, Lesley doesn't recognise him and starts to sob in Eileen's arms, saying that she doesn't know who the man is and that she wants Paul.

In the office at the factory Frank is going through some papers. He hears someone come in and we see him get up to investigate: it's Michelle with a proposition for Frank. She wants him to lease the factory to her. He asks if it's Carla's idea but she denies it. She points out that he has a factory full of equipment and a trained workforce and asks if he's really intending to waste all of that. He tries suggesting he might have a position for someone as bright and attractive as her in his new business but she responds that she'd rather stick pins in her eyes. At that Frank tells her to get out but Michelle asks if she can just pick up the personal items from her desk. Frank agrees and at that moment his phone rings. He turns away to take the call, leaving Michelle free to take what she wants from the office.

Back at Peter and Carla's things have calmed down a bit but the two of them have obviously consumed most of the whiskey. Peter says he can't understand why she didn't sell out to Frank in the first place. Carla reminds him that Frank raped her and when Peter responds with a slurred "so not a business decision, then?" Carla picks up her whiskey tumbler and hurls it at the wall in anger. She shouts that Frank took everything from her so she wasn't about to give him the factory as well. Peter shouts back and picks up the whiskey bottle. Just as Carla is trying to stop him having any more and the two of them are having a tug of war over the bottle, we hear footsteps coming up the stairs and Leanne walks in. "Is this what you call love, then?" she asks.

Peter tries to explain away the state they're in by saying they've had a bad day but Leanne is only concerned about Simon and wants to know if he's aware Peter's drinking again. He tries to deny it but it's difficult to convince someone who's just seen you fighting with your girlfriend over a bottle of Scotch. Carla tells Leanne to get out and leave them alone which she finds rather ironic in view of the fact that's what she wanted Carla to do all those months ago. The row escalates and the barbs are coming thick and fast when Carla is interrupted mid flow by a call on her mobile from Michelle. After she leaves, Leanne tells Peter he's a lost cause and that she wants custody of Simon. She says if he knows what's best for him he'll agree but, if not, she'll see him in court. Leanne leaves and Peter rummages under some packets of pasta in the kitchen cupboard and pulls out another half-drunk bottle of Scotch.

At Ken and Deirdre's, Simon has just gone to bed. They're trying to watch Grand Designs on the telly but the picture's on the blink. Ken asks if it's snowing but Deirdre says she hopes not because Kevin McCloud's supposed to be restoring a castle in Tuscany.

In Roy's Rolls, Sean and the girls are holding a meeting about the factory. Hayley says they may be jumping the gun and Fiz points out that, just because Carla's signed the contract, Frank still owns it so they may not lose their jobs. But Sally tells them she saw the emails and knows he's planning to outsource all the work. It slowly dawns on them all that Sally knew about Frank's plans but she betrayed them by keeping the information to herself. She tries to justify her actions by saying that she thought Frank cared for her. It doesn't cut much ice so she adds that, as soon as she knew about Jenny, she tried to stop Carla from signing the contract. Sean and the girls are not impressed so Hayley, ever the peace-maker, tries to persuade them all not to turn on each other but Sally isn't going to be welcomed back into the fold that easily and she leaves the café. Those that remain ponder where Michelle has got to.

Ken and Deirdre are out in the street, looking skywards. They spot the problem with their television reception: the satellite dish on the Rovers' roof next door would give Jodrell Bank a run for its money. Deirdre instructs Ken to go and talk to Stella and Karl about it. As she points out, she can't do it as she has to stay and look after Simon.

Nearby, Sally is sitting sobbing on a park bench when Rita and the gang emerge from the pub. They ask her what's wrong and Sally admits Rita was right about Frank all along. Rita suggests she could do with a drink but Sally declines. At that moment a drunken Peter looms towards the assembled crowd. Norris explains that they're on their way to the Bistro to celebrate his birthday and Peter takes this as an invitation to join the party. Ken watches with concern from his doorway and Carla observes the scene from across the road while Peter puts one arm round Norris and the other around Dennis and the merry group wend their way up the street.

With everyone leaving in droves because of the giant tv, business is slow in the Rovers. Even a miserable-looking Kevin downs his pint and announces there's something he has to go and do. Ken arrives to have a word about his reception. Stella is full of apologies and says they'll get it sorted whereas Karl's approach is to offer Ken the opportunity to go and watch their perfect picture any time he wants to.

Carla turns up at the factory. She's on a mission and her target is Frank. She finds him alone at the top of the stairs and confronts him. He's in a smug mood but Carla doesn't want a chat; she just wants him to admit he raped her. As they're talking she climbs the stairs towards him and suddenly he thinks he knows what her game is. Frank grabs hold of Carla's bag and looks inside, expecting to find a recording device but instead discovers a bottle of whiskey. He tells her she's a pathetic lush.

Over at the Bistro, the birthday celebrations have been taken over by Peter who so drunk that he actually kisses the top of Norris's head at one point. Lewis is serving them and being his usual charming self, a fact that doesn't go unnoticed by Dennis who goes up to Lewis and tells him to keep his roving eye away from Rita. This, in turn, is noticed by Rita who looks more than a little delighted by Dennis's actions.

Back at the factory, Frank is taunting Carla about her alcohol problem. She's still after his confession and she finally gets it - but not until he's grabbed her by both arms and is pinning her back against the balustrade at the top of the stairs. She looks terrified as he repeats quite clearly, several times, that he raped her. As she struggles to get free he says that the best bit was taking her factory off her, then adds: "Hey, that means I've screwed you twice. Do you fancy going for the hat-trick?"

In the Bistro, Peter has gone from merry to maudlin. He is now very, very drunk and announces to the whole bar that Frank Foster, the man who raped Carla and stole her factory, is not human. He adds that if he had the chance, he'd kill him. For good measure he continues with his theme and says that if ever a man deserved to die it's Frank Foster and that he would cheerfully dance on his grave.

The scene moves to the front door of Peter and Carla's flat where we see Carla fumbling for her keys in a totally distraught state. She finally manages to open the door, goes in and collapses in a sobbing heap.

Back in the Bistro Peter is demanding more drinks but Nick refuses to serve him. Norris and his pals enjoy the spectacle of Peter almost pushing Nick over before he disappears off into the night.

Doctor Carter has been called round to Eileen's to deal with Lesley. She's calmed down and been put to bed but the doctor explains that she has a degenerative condition and they need to prepare themselves for what's to come. At that moment Marcus comes home. He picks up on the situation and suggests that he and Sean should go and stay with Maria for a bit to give them some space. Paul tries to protest but we can see he's grateful for the idea.

Sean and Julie are on the way home when they notice that the factory lights are still on. Sean decides that this would be the ideal moment to go and confront Frank to tell him what he thinks of the way he's treated everyone. Julie says she's right behind him and that Frank should hear the voice of the workers. Sean's not so sure when he thinks about the fact that they're going into a deserted factory, late at night, to speak to a possible rapist but Julie frogmarches him up the steps. They burst through the door and straight into a scene from a murder mystery. Lying on the floor in front of them is the body of Frank with a pool of something dark, red and sticky oozing from his head. Sally is kneeling over him, crying and staring at her hands which are smeared with blood ...

Karen

We open with Frank still lying at the foot of the stairs as police photographers and forensics people walk around him.

Out in the Street, the area has been taped off by the police and some of the residents are standing around watching what's going on. Norris remarks that the police ought to leave them a couple of rolls of the tape, this isn't the first body to be found in the factory. Kevin is moaning because his garage falls within the taped off area, and he can't open. Rita is aghast to learn that it was Sally who found Frank, and wonders where she is now.

Sally is at home, sitting at the table looking stunned and shocked. She tells Sophie that when she was taken to the police station they took her clothes and she had to give samples of her hair and fingernails, she was treated like a suspect. There's a knock on the door, it's the police again, come to ask more questions.

Sean and Julie are talking to Eileen. Sean points out that Frank had plenty of enemies. Eileen asks how Sally was when they found her. Frank had duped them all and she had been sleeping with him, he'd humiliated her. Julie starts to say that Sally wouldn't be capable, when Eileen interrupts. "You don't know what anyone is capable of until they do it." Sean says there are others who would be higher up his list of suspects.

Carla wakes up on her sofa. She calls out to Peter, but he's not there. Picking up her mobile phone she finds 5 missed calls from Michelle. She tries to ring Peter but it just goes to voicemail. She leaves a message asking him to call.

Karl is lovingly polishing the huge tv that's now in situ in the Rovers. Stella tells him that it's an eyesore and is driving away the customers. Leanne comes in and asks if they've seen what's going on outside, so they all go out to have a look.

The police are interviewing Sally. She tells them she wasn't happy, she'd found out that Frank was seeing someone else, and was planning a takeover of the factory. The policeman remarks that Sally felt betrayed both personally and professionally. Frank had a head injury, does she have any idea how that happened? Sally tells him she wanted to give Frank a piece of her mind, not bash him over the head. She went into the factory and found him lying at the foot of the stairs with blood round his head. She thought he'd just fallen. She took his head in her hands, and that's when Sean and Julie arrived. Yes, she had been angry but, she tells the police, there were others with bigger axes to grind than herself.

Outside in the Street, Michelle texts Carla asking where she is. The local residents are gathering round the police tape outside the factory when Michelle comes up and asks what's going on. Sean tells her that Frank is dead, and asks why she didn't turn up to their meeting last night. Michelle says that she had something to do. Then she asks if Carla knows what has happened, and goes off to find her.

In the Bistro, Lewis remarks on the commotion out in the Street, and Nick tells him that Frank is dead. The two of them then talk about Peter, and how drunk and angry he'd been last night.

Michelle arrives at Carla's and tells her that Frank is dead, and that Sally found him last night in the factory. Carla immediately suspects that's the reason Peter didn't come home. Michelle thinks he's probably just drunk somewhere, and goes on to say that the girls are wondering what's going to happen to the factory, so Carla decides to go down there.

Gail is watching Lewis work with her lips pursed like a dog's bottom. Nick tells her that Lewis is a good worker and the customers like him. Audrey comes in and says that Gail should keep her opinions to herself. She sticks up for Lewis with the result that Gail goes off in a huff.

Across the road, Karl has been up a ladder fixing the tv dish so that it doesn't interfere with Ken and Deirdre's tv any more. He looks a bit shaken when he gets down, and tells Ken he's not good on ladders, his legs have gone to jelly.

The undertakers arrive and take Frank's body out of the factory. Anne rushes forward shouting at them to go gently, that's her son. She suddenly sees Carla who has come along with Michelle, and screams at her, asking if she's come to gloat. "This is all your fault!" she yells, and has to be led away, sobbing. The police officer asks Carla if there's somewhere they can talk.

Beth goes into the taxi office, asking for a cab to Freshco. Steve says she can have one, as long as she pays, because she usually doesn't. After protesting, Beth says she'll pay in advance, but oh, what a surprise, she's not got her purse on her. (How was she planning to do the shopping?) Steve tries to contact one of his drivers, but all he can hear through his radio system is the sound of a tv football commentary.

Carla has taken the police officers back to the flat. She tells them that Frank tricked her out of the factory. "That must have made you very angry," says the policeman. Carla said it did, but not in the way he's thinking. They then talk about the rape accusation, and how the jury found him not guilty. "So the anger that you felt towards him was pretty deep rooted," says the police officer.

Anne has been taken into the pub, where she's downing a stiff drink and telling Stella and Leanne that the last time she saw Frank, they argued. She weeps some more, saying it's so soon since she lost his dear father.

At the bar, Norris tells Rita that he'd heard that Frank was planning to sack the workforce.

Carla tells the police that she'd been to see Frank in the factory last evening, he was patronizing and gloating. He pinned her against the railings, admitted raping her and practically laughed in her face, but she managed to get out and came home. She was petrified, and she ran, but when she left him he was very much alive and kicking.

In the Rovers, Sally tells Kevin that she's phoned the woman Frank cheated on her with, and told her the news as sensitively as she could. She thinks that's pretty big of her, considering. She goes on to say that she heard Kevin threatening to do Frank in. He says he might have a temper, but he's no murderer.

Steve walks in and tells Karl that all he can get on his radio is the sports commentary from the Rovers' tv. Stella overhears and orders Karl straight back up the ladder to fix it.

Dennis comes in, all smiles and beaming. He's been offered a job by an old friend who works for a DIY store - in Birmingham. Rita looks crestfallen.

A very nervous, and unsteady Karl is on the roof, fiddling with the satellite dish. Stella watches from down in the Street. In the pub the customers are puzzled as the tv keeps changing channels by itself.

Carla is weeping in the flat when the door opens and a very disheveled Peter comes in. She jumps up and rushes to him, beating at his chest and shouting, "Where have you been?" over and over. He tells her he's sorry, he went for a drink that turned into ten and slept on a park bench. She asks why he didn't phone her, she's been tearing her hair out. He says he lost his phone. As he takes his jacket off, she sees his shirt is smeared with blood, but when she asks him about it, he says he can't remember what happened. He thinks he must have got into a fight. Carla looks stunned. "Frank Foster was murdered last night," she says quietly.

Outside the Rovers, Stella thinks it's really funny to lower Frank's ladder, leaving him hanging on to the top of the roof for dear life. She tells him she'll let him down when the tv has been collected, she's sold it on the internet.

Peter's feeling really rough and struggling to take in the news about Frank. He supposes Frank had it coming to him. "Did he?" asks Carla. He asks her where she was last night. She tells him how she went to see Frank and how they rowed, and how she ran away. She's told the police this, they'll want to see Peter next. "Hang on," says Peter, "you don't think I did it?" Carla points out that he didn't come home all night and now he's covered in mysterious blood stains. "If you want to put my mind at rest, tell me where you were," she says. Peter stares at her. "I can't remember," he says.

Anne Logan

Ooh, who did it?

Peter and Carla have had a sleepless night and now Peter's trying to remember where he was and when. He can't recall anything after the bistro and snaps at Carla when she suggests he's trying too hard to remember. She's grabbed the clothes he was wearing and chucks them in the washing machine. Peter's sure she thinks he killed Frank but Carla insists she doesn't think that at all - but the police might.

Rita and Dennis are in the cafe. He's catching a train to Birmingham tonight to start his new job. I love Rita and Dennis together. It's clear she doesn't want him to go and that he doesn't really want to go. Tina overhears them telling Roy about Dennis's new job. When Rita leaves she goes over to cross-examine Dennis about it. He acts cheerful and glad to get away from being a burden on Rita, but Tina's not fooled. "So how come you're not happy then?" she asks.

There's a copper in the Kabin and Norris listens fascinated as Ann pleads with him to be allowed to go into the factory and tells the detective he should be talking to Peter Barlow. The man calls DC Grant to tell her.

Dennis tells Tina he just feels so at home round here. Everyone's made him so welcome, except for Norris. Tina points out that Norris wouldn't welcome a sunny day! Dennis is going to miss Rita but he doesn't want to sponge off her. He makes Tina promise not to tell this to Rita.

DC Grant calls at Peter's flat. Before the police come up, Carla tells Peter to stop acting so guilty. DC Grant asks him to come down to the station. They've got the results of the post-mortem examination and this is now officially a murder investigation.

Rita's in the pub ordering a double vodka and tonic. She tells Audrey about Dennis going and Audrey assumes she'll be delighted to get her flat back. But Rita bursts into tears. As Tina watches (she's obviously been taking ninja listening lessons from Stella), Rita tells Audrey that Dennis has become more than just a friend in the year or so he's been back. "He's become part of my life." Audrey thinks Rita should tell Dennis how she feels but Rita says Dennis is a proud man and he's so pleased he's got this job. She should just be glad for him.

Peter's at the police station where they point out he's already got a record for assaulting Frank. Peter says he admits he hated Frank but he didn't kill him.

Jason's really annoyed that everyone else has been filling his skip. He moans about it to Roy and picks up a broken whisky bottle someone has dumped in there. Roy examines it and tells Jason he should tell the police - the broken end of the bottle has blood on it.

Sunita has a night off and has found a babysitter, so she's ready for a night out with Dev. Trouble is, he'd rather go to a business networking meeting.

Norris is sweeping his way through to the centre of the earth, what with all this police activity. Gail stops to chat because she knows he'll know everything that's been happening. So they're there when Jason arrives to tell the police about the bottle.

Paul's at Eileen's with Lesley. He's making a cuppa and has to take a phone call. Lesley wanders into the kitchen and scalds herself, bringing Eileen racing down the stairs.

Lewis goes to the salon. He's bought Audrey a lovely bracelet as a thank-you gift for coming to his defense.

Peter's still being questioned. He admits going to the bistro but can't remember what time. He denies he was drunk but says he'd had a few. DC Grant says they've been told he was sounding off about Frank Foster. Peter can't remember what time he left. The police have talked to Nick, who said Peter was angry and drunk. Peter says he went home straight from the bistro. DC Grant is called from the room by a male colleague.

In the Kabin, Rita touches up her tear-streaked face just in time before Dennis comes in to say goodbye. Neither of them are any good with goodbyes, they agree, both of them with wobbly voices. They hug briefly and Dennis goes out to get his taxi to the station.

Karl's drinking in the bistro when Sunita comes in, all dressed up. When he finds out she's on her own for the evening with nothing to do he suggests they go to the casino. Sunita's never been to one. Gail comes out, complaining about the state of the office just as Nick discovers there's fifty quid missing from the till. Gail's quite sure she knows who's guilty and it's spelt L-E-W-I-S.

In the pub, Jason tells Tina about the bottle and asks after the big-screen TV. Tina explains that Stella had it removed. Rita comes in and seems upset so Tina tells her that Dennis only left because he thought he shouldn't be sponging off Rita. Tina thinks he'd stay if he knew how Rita felt. But it's too late, Rita says. She sighs that she'll just go home.

In the factory, Ann's weeping and searching the office - folders, Frank's briefcase, drawers . . .

Rita gets as far as her front door and hears Dennis's voice. He asks how she'd feel if he changed his mind. She didn't want him to go in the first place, he says. Dennis says he couldn't stand the thought of not having her in his life. He agrees to move back in but promises to get a job and his own place. "You'll do nothing of the sort," Rita says. "I like having you with me." Dennis says he loves it too. "I love being there. I love . . "He hesitates. "Go on," says Rita. "I love you," Dennis says. "Good, because I love you, too." Awwww . . . Dennis promises he's not going to keep sponging off her. "Then make an honest woman of me!" Rita tells him, using her leap year prerogative. Dennis would kneel down but he's not sure he could get up again so he just asks: "Rita Sullivan, will you make me the happiest man in the world and marry me?" She would.

The two detectives come back to Peter. They ask, if he left the bistro at 10.30, as Nick says, and went straight home, then why did he use his credit card to buy a bottle of whisky at 10.45?

Why indeed? You'll have to wait for the next episode to find out.

The End
Margaret Carr

Written by: Jan McVerry
Directed by:Griff Rowland

Peter is being interrogated at the police station. After being peppered with a barrage of questions, he finally breaks down and tells them he really can't remember anything because he is a raging alcoholic and was blind drunk.

Karl is whisking Sunita away to the casino, and he wonders what Dev would say if he could see him taking his wife away. Sunita replies that he would probably only be concerned as to whether he had the meter on his taxi running or not. Karl assures her that tonight is not about business, but purely for pleasure.

Dennis and Rita are on their way out too. Dennis is telling her that all the worldly goods he has to bestow upon her is two hold alls and a Freshco carrier bag. Rita assures him that it's OK, she understands that he has been a rolling stone. He responds that it is now time for him to gather some moss. Rita chuckles that she has been called nicer things than something green and hairy.

Back to the interrogation of Peter, and he is ranting on about Frank being an animal, that he raped his girlfriend, which gives the two police officers more reason to believe that he had a motive despite his protests that he would never have killed him. They argue that if indeed Peter didn't remember anything, how would he know if he killed him or not. Peter replies that if he had killed Frank, he would have come up with a better alibi than amnesia.

They let him go, but warn him not to leave the country.

Lewis arrives for work at the Bistro early, and Gail starts immediately with her nasty remarks, and demands Nick asks him about the missing £50, especially as he has already had the nerve to ask his own mother about it. Nick does so, and Lewis protests vehemently that he knows nothing about it. Gail, ever the tactful one, tells him to pay it back and no more will be said. Lewis tells her she can pat him down, but didn't take it. Nick says that he had to ask him, because they have never had money go missing from the till before. "Not til you hired 'im!" says Gail. Lewis is furious now, and turns on his heel and leaves. Gail hands Nick the phone and tells him to call the police. When did Gail turn into such a nasty piece of work?

Carla sees Peter pulling up in a cab and rushes over to ask why he didn't call her, as she would have picked him up. Peter tells her he wanted to get out of there fast before they changed their minds. He rants at her for suggesting he tell them he was with her, because now, because of the credit card showing he bought a bottle of whisky in an off license, they know that he is not only an alcoholic but a liar as well. He moves over to No. 1 and knocks on the door, and Carla suggests he not go to see Simon in the mood he is in. Livid now, Peter turns on her, wagging a finger under her nose, and tells her to stop telling him what he can and cannot do. Carla is not having this, and tells him he has no right to blame her, when he is the one who was out all night, came home drunk and covered in blood, how dare he blame her? Peter spits at her that he knows she thinks he did it, and Carla protests that she doesn't.

Just at that moment Ken answers the door, and Peter, in a raised voice demands to see Simon. Ken tells him to keep his voice down, and Peter raises it up a notch yelling at him that he is not going to be another one to tell him what to do. Ken tells him that he is a mess, even has the shakes, and Peter replies that it is the result of being interrogated at the cop shop for seven hours. Ken tells him that there is no way Simon is going to see him in that state and tells Carla to take him home. Peter shrugs her off and storms down the street saying he is going somewhere where he will get a warmer welcome. Carla is very upset, but Ken tells her he will talk to him.

Dennis and Rita are meeting up with Norris, Mary and Emily in The Rovers, and happily announce their engagement. Everyone except Norris of course is delighted with the news, and ask when the wedding is to be. Norris remarks that his money is on Spring as he knows Dennis will not want to let the grass grow under his feet. Rita sends her fiance to get the drinks in, then glares in Norris' direction. Norris asks her if she was expecting him to do cartwheels or something, Rita says she wasn't, but she did think he might have cracked a smile. Norris replies that he could only do that if he was a hypocrite. He goes on to remind her that Dennis has form by the name of Norma, which Rita counters that it was different with her, and besides, they had talked that through at length. Norris then asks what he is bringing into the union, apart from Rita's purse, upon which Rita just tells him to get lost and take his sour face somewhere else. Norris asks her if he has struck a nerve, to which Rita replies that on the contrary, he has insulted her. Norris gets up to leave, and asks Mary if she is coming. She tells him she is quite comfortable where she is, so he leaves alone.

Ken arrives and is dismayed to see Peter knocking back the whiskey. He asks him what is going on, and is told that Carla thinks he killed Frank Foster, and that he will too when he tells him all that has happened.

In the Bistro, Gail is telling Audrey all about the missing money and the fact that she is convinced that Lewis took it. It appears that Nick hasn't yet called the police, and Gail is poised to do it for him, but Audrey stops her by saying Nick wouldn't thank her for jumping the gun, especially if it turns out that it wasn't him. Gail is not placated though, and has Lewis hung drawn and quartered in her mind. In the middle of this conversation, Audrey glances down and notices her shiny new bracelet on her wrist, which she immediately hides under her sleeve. Maybe even she is wondering now where Lewis got the money for it. However, she is not about to voice her concerns to Gail, and tells her that it is not worth the upset it will cause to the business by reporting it to the police, after all it is only a couple of steaks and a bottle of plonk.

Nick approaches Eileen & Paul's table and asks if they would like more drinks. Paul is agitated and wants to go home, but Eileen tells him that he deserves it, and orders more drinks. She reassures him by saying that it is minor burns and Marcus is a trained nurse, and besides, Leslie probably needs as much of a break from him as he does from her. Convinced, he relaxes and they clink glasses.

The same two policemen (or should I say policeman and policewoman) who interrogated Peter are sitting in a squad car in Coronation Street doing who knows what, when Anne rushes up to them and raps on the window. She is very agitated, and asks them if they came across a contract when they were removing evidence from the factory, because a very important one has gone missing. They eventually get her to calm down enough to tell them that the missing contract is the one Carla signed hours before Frank died, and without it, the factory still belongs to Carla. Aha! - a little light goes on above the policeman's head, they now have another suspect in the frame.

Audrey seeks Lewis out in the Rovers, and throws her bracelet in front of him, telling him she is not interested in his ill gotten gains. He remarks that the Weatherfield jungle drums have been busy. She angrily asks him if he stole from her grandson, and to tell her the absolute truth. He strongly denies it, telling her that his scamming days are behind him. She tells him to stop with the flannel, because one day he pleads poverty, next day he buys her expensive jewellery, what was she supposed to think? He is angry now, and tells her she doesn't have to put the knife in just because Gail tells her to, that it's demeaning for both of them, and he pushes the bracelet back towards her. She picks it up, looks as if she is going to say more but thinks better of it and leaves.

Anne is in the pub now, speaking to Frank's factory workers. She is telling them all about the missing contract, Beth immediately chortles that perhaps they still have jobs after all. Anne screams that her son is dead, and all they can think about is their jobs, and crying, runs off to the loo. She is quickly followed by a sympathetic Sally, who ends up holding a sobbing Anne, who is wishing the killer had bludgeoned her too, as she has nothing left to live for now she has lost both her husband and son.

Back out in the bar, glasses are being raised to toast the engagement of Rita and Dennis. Dennis holds his glass to Rita and says "Third time lucky!". She replies that she was lucky the first two times as well, and goes on to describe how different Len Fairclough and Ted Sullivan were. The three husbands were remembered by Emily, and envied by Mary, who has not had even one.

Over on the side, Beth and Sean are discussing where they stand job wise, and Sean figures Underworld has reached the end of the line, and leaves to check the job section in the newspaper, while Beth sidles up to Lewis at the bar, pulls a note from somewhere in the depths of her ample bosom and offers to buy him a drink.

Eva arrives back from shopping. When quizzed by her mother, she tells her that she has been shopping for the Bistro on her day off, showing some initiative, but Mother reckons it must be love. She asks where 'Spiderman' Karl is, and is told that he is hiding somewhere, still sulking. Eva says that she can't believe that Stella didn't film him up on the roof, as it would have been a YouTube sensation. Stella chuckles that he would never have spoken to her again had she done that. Beth obviously got nowhere with Lewis, because she is just ordering one half of lager.

Karl and Sunita are leaving the casino, and Karl is betting Sunita that she can't remember where they parked the car. Sunita tells him that she bets him a quid that she can. He calls her on that, and asks if she has learned nothing by a night of gambling with him, so she bets him £10 instead. Right away, she describes exactly where the car is parked, which impresses Karl until she points out that it wasn't difficult since it's the only one with the Streetcars telephone number on the roof.

Paul and Eileen are still eating their meal in the Bistro, and Paul has been multitasking trying to reach his builder on his mobile at the same time. He complains that he doesn't even return his calls any more, which lights up Eileen's face, as it means they will have to stay with her even longer.

Eva arrives back and unloads the shopping she has picked up for the restaurant, and asks Nick if he got her note, because she forgot her safe keys, and had to borrow money for the shopping from the till. Audrey, who has gone back there immediately pricks up her ears. Nick looks in the till and finds the note which says 'IOU £50'. He says to Gail that it looks as if they have some groveling to do, and asks her who will go first. I think you can imagine the look on Gail's face.

Back in the Rovers, Carla is begging Peter to stop drinking and to come home. She assures him she does believe him, and to please put his pint down. Just then Anne spots her and yells across the room that she will never get away with it, that she will fight her tooth and nail for the factory. Carla is baffled, and asks what she is supposed to be getting away with, and is shocked to find out that the contract in which she signed away the factory has gone walkabout. Anne is on a roll now, and is screaming abuse at Carla, telling her she should have gone through the windscreen when she had her accident. Carla, who is never one to take abuse lying down screams back that the world is a better place now her son is dead. Just then in comes Mr. and Ms. Plod, the two police officers, who read Carla her rights and arrest her for the murder of Frank Foster. She is bundled into the police car, watched by Anne, Ken, Sally and a distraught Peter.

Lewis is waiting at the bus stop, and Audrey comes running down the street full of apologies. She tells him that Eva had borrowed the money from the till, and apologises again, saying she should have had faith in him. Lewis says he knows how persuasive Gail can be, but she is very prejudiced at the same time, and Audrey should remember that in future, as he gets onto the bus, Audrey calls out to him that she will get him his job back at the Bistro, but Lewis is already out of earshot and doesn't give her a backward glance.

Rita walks into the Kabin to find Norris stocktaking. She asks that he give a girl a break, but he responds that she should cut out the little girl act, as she has been round the block often enough that she should know when she is being taken for a ride. She asks if it is wrong to want to be happy and useful, and he replies that he wants both of those things for her, but not with him, as he is a sponger and a flirt. Rita protests that he is not, that he has just been unlucky, and he may have been a flirt in the past, but has told him he will be on a short leash from now on. She goes on to say that she has no intention of losing touch with her pals, and he can hold her to that.

She then says they are planning a Spring wedding, as there is no point in hanging around at their age. Norris is not fully convinced, so Rita goes on to tell him that he can make notes on what he feels a marriage should be for his speech. He asks what speech, as he is hardly Dennis' best man. Rita smiles at him and says "No, but you are mine", and hands him a small notepad. He puts the pad down, and with a wry smile, picks one up three times bigger. Rita goes into a huge belly laugh.

Karl pulls up round the side of the Rovers, and Sunita asks if he has something to hide. He tells her he hasn't, but thanks her for a great night. She thanks him in return and says she has really enjoyed herself. She mentions how much he has won, and he asks her not to mention even going to the casino to Stella. She agrees, and they decide it would be best not to mention it to Dev either. As she walks away, they look at each other and smile, and you just know this is just the beginning of something of which their respective mother's would not approve!

Carla is being led into her cell, and is told that the fingerprints she gave the last time she was arrested for being drunk have matched the prints on the whiskey bottle that killed Frank, and that tomorrow the questioning would start. The credits roll as the door to her cell slams shut.

Christine Warren

Written by Simon Crowther Directed by David Kester

Nobody has opened the factory yet and they're all waiting on the step. Michelle finally arrives and tells them that Carla is still at the police station and they've all got work to do so it's business as usual.

DC Nash is questioning Carla about the whisky bottle. He keeps trying to trip her up about where it was found but she's cool, calm and a bit bitchy with him. The gist of it is she took the bottle from Peter because he's an alcoholic. Frank searched her bag thinking she might have a recording device and found it. It was left on the filing cabinet and she has no idea what happened after she left. She stands her ground with the police, telling them a fantasy story about what could have happened including leaving what was probably the murder weapon in the office. Ah no, but Nash says she didn't, she put it back in her bag and disposed of it in a skip. Did I? She says. That was stupid. She didn't wipe it? She questions them about not hearing about broken glass at the scene of the crime so was it broken in the murder or when she supposedly tossed it in the skip? Hers were the only fingerprints on the bottle along with traces of Frank's blood (unless of course, someone else had gloves on when they whacked Frank with the bottle?) Carla points out that if she *had* killed Frank, not wiped the blood off, not wiped her fingerprints off, she'd have made sure the bottle was smashed to bits instead of carefully putting it in the skip. She defiantly says she thinks she'd make a cleverer murderer than the one he's accusing her of being.

In the factory, Beth isn't in any hurry to do her work. The rest of them are confused about who they're actually working for, if anyone. Michelle comes in and Hayley explains that they're all just uncertain of what the future holds. She declares they're working for Carla at the moment. Anne walks in, and is angry to see Michelle there. She insists she's there to protect Frank's interests and since Carla doesn't own the factory, she wants Michelle out too. Michelle refuses to hand over the keys and reminds Anne that the contract is missing. Nothing Anne says deters Michelle's determination to keep the factory running ... for Carla since there's no tangible proof. Shaky, Anne looks around at the workers who are avidly listening in.

Paul brings Lesley a bouquet of flowers for their anniversary. The building work isn't done yet and won't be for another few weeks. Lesley looks at the cards he's brought from home and is a bit confused but she remembers what the flowers are for. I think.

Carla is still being questioned and is telling them about the set up with Jenny. She says she signed the contract and then found out about the fraud he and Jenny provided. But, as Nash points out, somewhere the contract is missing and hadn't been filed with a solicitor. So that's another motive for murder, right? He accuses her of returning to the factory to get it and destroy it. She glares at him and says it's in insult to think she'd have killed Frank for a contract. If she was going to kill him it was because he raped her.

In the Kabin, Sylvia is establishing the time for Rita and Dennis's engagement party later. Norris expresses his feelings, that of disdain. Paul and Lesley are in the Kabin as well. Sylvia and Norris whisper about them. She thinks everyone seems to be celebrating everything all the time and they indulge in a bit of gossip about Paul and Eileen carrying on. Sylvia reckons "Greed" is another word for adultery. She leaves and we focus on Lesley and Paul. Lesley remembers their wedding cake (chocolate) that they got because her mother hated chocolate.

The police woman has finished searching Peter's flat for the contract which she didn't find. He's incensed because she's left it in a mess.

Back to the police, Nash suggests Carla committed murder because the "victim" raped her. She shakes her head in despair over the ironic wording. She points out that according to the law, Frank didn't rape her and she made the whole thing up. The Law can't have it both ways. "You can't suggest that I killed him because he raped me when the court insisted no rape took place". Nash quietly admits that he thinks she was raped and she didn't get the justice she deserved. This shakes her confidence. He sticks the knife in further. On top of that, he conned her out of her business. Carla gets angry but is still collected. She agrees she's got motive but it still doesn't mean she did it. I've got to say she really handled herself well. Nash asks, if she didn't kill him, who did? Indeed.

After the break, Karl is on the phone to someone he owes money to, to wait a bit longer. Tina's working and Rita hopes she'll be allowed to sit and have a drink with her and Dennis. Karl comes out to the bar. Rita's there to settle up the bill for the party food. Karl tries to get an extra 40 pounds but she doesn't back down. Stella agreed to 110 pounds for the food and presentation. Karl keeps trying but eventually backs off but by now, Rita's not having it and cancels the whole thing, furiously. Now Karl is going to have to explain to Stella.

Back to the police station, Carla chats to her solicitor and is fidgeting impatiently. The solicitor says they could keep her another 12 hours and thinks Carla needs to tone down her combative attitude. Nash returns after conferring with the cop that searched Peter's flat and says they're releasing her on bail. (The clock says 9 o'clock and for the amount of time she's been talking, you'd think she's been there all day but it's still light out so I guess they have been grilling her all night!)

To prove the point, we then switch to Eileen and Paul in the cafe. He's telling her about their visit to the Kabin. He's been trying to get her to remember people that had been at their wedding. He was encouraged by the cake thing but that was a brief moment of clarity apparently. Lesley comes back to the table and asks Sylvia if it's still snowing outside. Dr. Matt comes in. Eileen suggests he talk to Matt about the subject they spoke about the other day (a care facility). He's not too keen.

Carla arrives home finally, coming into shop where Peter is working. She wants a shower and isn't really in the mood to talk about it at the moment. She just wants things to be normal. She's going to shower and go into the factory.

In the Kabin, Rita has told Dennis about the incident with Karl. He thinks she was right to cancel and Norris agrees but for a different reason. He doesn't really approve of having a party just because you're engaged. Self importance. Stella comes in and Rita's face falls. I think Stella's is about to as well.

Over to the Factory, Carla has arrived and the workers tell her they don't think she did it, though Beth seems a bit iffy. Carla says they have motive but can't prove it yet. Anne has been in the office and comes out demanding the contract. Carla tells Anne she's not got it and would have burned if she had, and she tells Anne to sling her hook. Beth wants to know all about the cell, and not in a very sensitive way, bless her. Michelle suggests they all go home which upsets Anne.

In the pub, Stella is giving Karl a bleeding ear, shouting at him for how he handled Rita. He pretends he just forgot the price agreed and thinks it's a blessing in disguise as it wouldn't make them any money anyway. She goes stomping into the back leaving Karl sighing.

Matt has brought Paul some brochures of the care facility he'd recommended. He's seen out. Paul isn't too sure at all about it all. Lesley has been looking at photos and some memories come back again about her cousin Trevor. They talk about Trevor and chuckle over the photos. Paul's encouraged again.

Michelle is commiserating with Carla and asking about the contract. Carla reckons whoever stole it would have destroyed it by now. She didn't take it and she doesn't think Peter did. Carla wonders about who could have and Michelle is getting more and more fidgety, prowling around the room like a caged cat. You can see what's coming right? Yep, turns out she took it and she still has it in her bag. She pulls it out and hands it to Carla. Wha????

Tvor

Written by Simon Crowther and directed by David Kester

Michelle explains to Carla about what happened when she went back to the office. The sight of Frank's briefcase sitting on the side was all too tempting and she took the contract.

Rita and Dennis are walking arm in arm across the cobbles. She laments the fact that they've missed out on their engagement celebrations and wishes she hadn't been so stubborn. As they walk into the Bistro for a quiet meal together Dennis says he wouldn't want her to be any other way. They go through the door and, with the strains of Cliff crooning "Congratulations" in the background, Rita is overwhelmed by the sight of all her friends. Dennis has come up trumps and organised a surprise party.

Carla can't believe that she was interrogated all night about the contract when Michelle had it all along and Michelle is worried that she was at the scene of the murder and stole something into the bargain. They're both at their wits' end trying to decide what to do. Carla wants to know why Michelle hung onto the contract and didn't just destroy it. Michelle says she doesn't know but she's never done this sort of thing before and is just a humble assistant (funny that - only a few hours before she was offering to lease the factory off Frank). Carla points out that everyone saw her sign the contract but then the brain cells start to tick over and it dawns on Carla that without the only copy of the contract, they're on really dodgy ground.

We return to the Bistro where everyone's enjoying the engagement party. Everyone, that is, except Norris who's had his nose put out of joint. We know the real reason for his mood but he chooses to attribute it to his dislike of the topic of conversation: where people were at the moment of events of historical significance. Gail says she was two years old the day that Kennedy was shot and Audrey is quick to point out she was five.

Lewis calls in to the Bistro to collect his wages and Nick asks him to reconsider going back to work. Audrey listens in hopefully but, glancing briefly in her direction, Lewis says he was only sticking around for one reason and the cards don't seem to have fallen for him. He tells Nick he's moving on further afield and asks him to pass on his love to Audrey. They shake hands and, as Audrey looks wistfully in Lewis's direction, Gail gives her a look and utters the word "mother" in a voice which would stop a ten ton truck in its tracks.

At Eileen's she and Paul are discussing the never-ending problem of Lesley. He says he's contemplating going onto night shifts so that he can look after Lesley in the day but ever-practical Eileen asks him when he's going to sleep, not to mention when they'll have time for each other. Eileen raises the subject of the residential home again as doctor Carter has suggested. Paul can't face the idea of doing that to Lesley but Eileen says it doesn't mean he's giving up on her and that he has to put Lesley's needs first. At that moment Lesley walks in and tells them the snow has melted. Paul jumps up guiltily while Eileen stands there wearing her resigned expression.

In the Bistro Audrey is talking to Nick and asks him if Lewis told him where he was going. He doesn't know but says if he was Lewis, he'd want to go back to the West Indies. Audrey looks upset at the thought.

Meanwhile, Emily and the gang are still on the subject of where they were the day that Kennedy died and Emily recalls what she ate for supper that night. Norris says that's exactly what he's talking about; he really has no interest in knowing that Emily ate a pork chop on November 22nd 1963 and, for once, I think Norris has a fair point.

Rita goes over to Audrey and asks her if she's alright. Audrey replies that nothing which a couple of chapters of her book and a sleeping pill won't cure but Rita can see she's upset and offers her another drink.

Leanne and Simon are walking along the street and heading back to the Rovers. Peter watches miserably from a shop doorway and sees the two of them chatting away happily, holding hands.

Over at the garage the police are questioning Kevin about Frank's car. He tells them that it was in for a service but Frank picked up the car before he'd had a chance to do the work. They want to know why but Kevin can't help. They ask him whether Kevin had done any work on the brakes but he repeats that he didn't do anything to the car and they'd be better off speaking to Tyrone as he was the one who was there when Frank picked it up. They're persistent and want to look at his diary. The policeman suggests Frank might have had second thoughts about allowing Kevin to work on his car. While this is going on, Sally walks by and we can see her listening in.

Leanne is in the back room of the Rovers testing Simon on his spelling when Peter walks in. She quickly says Simon's about to go to Ken and Deirdre's as it's his bedtime but Peter tells Simon he doesn't need to stay with them any more as he's going to live with him. Simon makes it very clear he doesn't want to do that. Leanne sends Simon out to the kitchen so that she can tell Peter that the last she'd heard was that Carla had been arrested but he says she's been released and cleared of all charges. Simon comes back in and Peter tries suggesting that he should go with him and sleep in his own bed. Simon clings on to Leanne and tells Peter he doesn't want to live with him again. Just in case Peter was in any doubt about his feelings, Simon adds that he thinks he's the worst dad in the world. Leanne does at least try to say to Simon that he knows that's not true but Simon's final word on the subject is to ask Peter why he had to ruin everything.

Kevin is arguing with Sally as he locks up the garage. He's very angry that they questioned him about Frank's car and even more so now he thinks Sally might also suspect he could have tampered with the brakes.

Simon is crying silently in the back room of the Rovers when Leanne goes in to tell him she won't be the one taking him to school in the morning. She gently tells him not to forget his library book and reminds him to clean his teeth.

In the Bistro Dennis calls for silence so that he can give his speech. After reminding everyone that he and Rita go back a very long way he finishes by saying that if someone had told him when he was 7 years old that he'd be returning to the street at the age of 70 he wouldn't have believed them but here he is, back on his old doorstep, with the greatest prize of all. There are smiles of approval from everyone except Norris who appears to have been sucking on a lemon. Rita is nearly moved to tears when Dennis asks them all to drink a toast to "a true survivor and a wonderful human being".

Meanwhile, Carla has decided the only solution to the problem of the contract is to burn it over the kitchen sink but before she's managed to wash the evidence down the plughole, Peter comes in demanding to know what she's up to. He's furious that the police turned over the flat when Carla had the contract all along so she tries to explain how she's only just acquired. She refuses to tell him exactly how it "fell into her hands" so the row escalates with them both trying to outdo each other about what a rotten day they've had: being wrongly accused of murder v. being told you're the worst Dad in world. It doesn't exactly set the perfect scene for Peter to bring Simon back to the flat as he'd planned.

Over at Eileen's, Paul is reading Lesley a bedtime story while Eileen is sitting on the sofa between Sean and Marcus discussing everyone's domestic arrangements. It seems that there's no end in sight for the building repairs at Paul's so he and Lesley aren't about to move out any time soon and Paul still can't bear the idea of moving Lesley into a home, even though Sean reckons the brochure looks so appealing he wouldn't mind moving in there himself. Luckily, for the time being at least, the boys reckon Maria is quite happy for them to continue staying with her and Kirk.

Audrey goes round to see Lewis but when he doesn't answer the door it looks as though she's too late. As she's about to walk away Lewis comes out and tells her he's not leaving until the next day and asks if she'd care to go in.

Back at Peter and Carla's they're still picking over the bones of their argument. Carla is convinced that they're going to convict her of murder. She asks him why the police should bother digging any further when everything points at her and wonders out loud why she didn't wipe Frank's blood off the bottle. "Why didn't you, then?" he shouts at her. It sounds like Peter thinks she did it so he quickly backtracks and says he meant that, if she really had used to kill Frank, she would have cleaned the bottle. But the damage is done and Carla now thinks Peter doesn't believe her. He asks why he should trust her when she lied about the contract and now it transpires that hers are the only fingerprints on the murder weapon. "I'm so scared," says Carla. She asks Peter what chance she has with judges and the court if she can't even convince him of her innocence. He looks as scared as she does but calms down and tells her not to lose it. She tells him she couldn't cope with going to prison for a crime she didn't do after everything else she's been through and Peter tells her that it's not going to come to that. Peter takes Carla in his arms but it's going to take more than a hug to get them through this one.

Lewis and Audrey are sitting on the end of his bed where his almost-packed suitcase is waiting ready for him to leave. Lewis observes that Audrey will never have any faith in him but she says she could try to and then suggests they could start again. Lewis isn't so sure after everything he's put her through but Audrey responds that she's come to realise that life is very short. Just to make completely sure he's got the message she tells Lewis that she loves him, she wants him in her life and she doesn't want him to go. He's somewhat surprised by her change of heart but is more than happy to accept her words and they seal their newly-revived romance with a kiss. Meanwhile, down at the cop shop, it looks as though the murder enquiry is about to take a new turn. Peter arrives and asks to speak to D.S. Nash. He tells him he lied to him the previous week and he actually remembers more than he let on.

"Carla didn't murder Frank Foster," he says. "I did."

Karen

The detectives ask Peter to tell them what happened on the night of Frank's murder. Peter says he saw Frank's car outside the factory so went in, he wanted Frank to apologise for all he'd done to Carla. He said Frank was gloating over the rape so he wanted to wipe the smile off his face and grabbed the closest thing to hand, the bottle. They ask what he did with it, he says he tried to wipe it, and then went back to the flat. They ask if Carla was there, and he says she was, and he managed to wash the blood-stained shirt without her seeing.

Carla goes round to see Ken and Deirdre to tell them she can't find Peter. While she's there, her phone rings. It's Peter's solicitor, he tells her that Peter is at the police station, he's confessed to killing Frank.

Audrey comes downstairs, looking for Lewis. Just then, he comes in through the front door with bread and milk, he's been to the garage round the corner. "You thought I'd gone, didn't you?" he says. She says she wouldn't blame him for having second thoughts, the way they've been with him. He says he's not, and asks if she is. She isn't, but she is worried about telling Gail. He says they'll save her a lot of worry by not mentioning it. She's delighted and says it'll just be their secret.

Back at the Barlow's, Leanne arrives to collect Simon's reading book, and wonders why Carla is there. Ken tells her that Peter has been arrested, having confessed to killing Frank. Leanne is visibly shocked, and then turns and asks Carla if she'd known that he did it. Carla asks why everyone is asking her that, and rushes off to the police station. "What am I going to tell Simon?" says Leanne. Ken and Deirdre advise saying nothing yet, but to wait until they know more.

Out in the Street, Julie spots Brian outside of Roy's Rolls, tucking into a bacon butty. She's horrified, he should be setting an example with his healthy eating plan. She tells him that having a child is exhausting and she needs him to be in peak physical condition. She takes the butty off him, saying she's going to put it in the bin, but when he's gone she has a bite of it herself!

Eileen tells Paul he can't go on looking after Lesley all day and then doing a night shift at work. He brushes off her concerns and tells her it's only temporary.

Carla is at the police station. The detective tells her that Peter has made a statement confessing to Frank's murder. "Do you think he did it?" she asks. "Do you?" he snaps back. He then tells her that they know Peter did it for her, they just need to find out if he did it WITH her.

In the salon, Kylie's had a phone call to say that Max's packed lunch has been confiscated, and he has to have a school dinner - and they've got to pay for it. David admits that kids do perform better when they've eaten properly. Kylie, however, is worried that Max won't like the dinner and won't eat anything at all. She tells David she has something to do, and grabs her coat and bag. As she leaves, Audrey arrives all smiley and breathless, apologising for being late. She then takes a phone call (obviously from Lewis) arranging to see him later.

It's coffee time in the factory, and Beth asks Eileen who Paul sleeps with, his wife or her? There are gasps all round and Hayley tells her it's none of their business. Beth says it's only what everyone is thinking, and goes on to ask Eileen if Paul has to keep both of them happy. A row then breaks out, until Anne comes in and asks why they're all still in there - tea break finished 5 minutes ago. They tell her they're waiting from some instructions from Carla regarding an order, but don't know when she'll be in. Anne says she wouldn't be surprised if the next time they see her she'll be getting into a prison van with a blanket over her head.

Kylie has arrived at the school gate and is handing Max contraband food through the bars. A sausage roll and a muffin. Amy comes along and says that Mr Packham wouldn't like it. Kylie offers her a pasty, but Amy says she's not supposed to. Kylie says she won't tell if Amy won't, so Amy takes the pasty. Kylie tells them that if they and their friends want the same sort of thing tomorrow, she'll come and take their orders, but it has to be a big, big secret.

The two detectives have gone to the Bistro and are asking Nick if he remembers Peter being there the night Frank was killed. Nick says that he was, and was very drunk. He reluctantly tells them that Peter said that Frank would get what was coming to him.

In his police cell, Peter asks the sergeant if he could use the phone to call his dad. He explains that he has a little lad, only 8 years old. "Sorry," says the policeman, adding that from what he's heard, his lad will have to get used to Peter not being around.

Carla arrives at the factory and tells Michelle that Peter has confessed to killing Frank. The workers, and Anne, hear this and Anne gasps and then becomes hysterical. "How has it come to this?" she sobs. Carla shouts that it's because Anne stood by Frank when he raped her, now an 8 year old boy will grow up without a father. Anne, weeping uncontrollably, is led into an office, while Carla shouts that her son was evil. Michelle drags her away and hugs her.

Kevin goes to see Sally and tells her about Peter's confession. She says she's sorry she ever doubted him. They wonder how Leanne and Simon must be feeling, and also how Ken and Deirdre, especially as they've been through all this with Tracy. Kevin says she's well out of it, and Sally agrees that she had a lucky escape, although it didn't seem like it at the time.

Having waited until David has gone for lunch, Lewis goes into the salon to see Audrey, locking the door behind him. Suddenly there's banging on the door, David has forgotten his wallet. Audrey quickly wraps a gown round Lewis and shoves him under a dryer and tells David she was a 'drop-in'.

Brian knocks on Tracy's door and waves the pasty in her face, telling her he confiscated it from her daughter. He asks if she gave it to Amy, contravening his healthy eating initiative. "No," says Tracy, "Amy can't eat stuff like that, it makes her ill." Amy is peering round from behind Tracy, and Brian asks her where she got it from. Amy tells him she promised she wouldn't say. Brian tells her that doesn't include her mummy or her head teacher, but Tracy gets annoyed. She tells Brian that a secret is a secret and if Amy wasn't present she would tell him where to stuff his pasty - sideways! She slams the door.

Ken goes to see Leanne, who asks him what to tell Simon. How do they tell a kid his dad is a murderer? Ken says they can't be sure of that, Peter could be claiming self-defence, anything. Leanne is fuming. She says that Peter is so besotted with Carla that Simon might just as well not exist.

Eileen arrives home to find that Paul has put a casserole in the oven. Lesley is dozing on the sofa, so he goes off to get some sleep before he has to go to work. Sean comes in and suggests he gets a bottle of wine for them to share, as Eileen can't go out to the pub.

Brian is in the pub and asks Stella for pork scratchings. She goes out to the back to find them, when Tracy comes in. She's still annoyed with him and tells him he was out of order. He tells her that he has to get this food smuggling thing sorted, or the children will have to buy uniforms with elasticated waistbands. Kylie and David are sitting nearby and she calls out that he would know all about that. Tracy calls him a hypocrite, just as Julie comes in and is shocked to find he's drinking beer. He protests that it's just the one, to wind down after a stressful day. Then Stella comes back and hands him the pork scratchings.

Carla and Michelle are drinking wine in the Bistro, and Carla is sobbing. She thinks it's all her fault for breaking up with Frank on the eve of their wedding, she hurt him so much. She broke his heart to take up with a married man, and she smashed Peter's family to pieces. Michelle tries to tell her that Peter wouldn't have gone off with her if he'd been happy with Leanne. Nick comes along then, and sits down with them. He tells them that he told the police the truth about Peter on the night of Frank's murder, but is afraid he's dropped him in it. "Bit late for that," mutters Michelle.

The police tell Peter that they've been checking his story and it all stands up. They formally charge him with the murder of Frank. No bail is granted, and he'll appear at the magistrates' court in the morning.

Anne Logan

More than one person has said to me lately that they don't watch Corrie any more because the humour has gone. How can they say that about a series with Brian, Norris, Mary, Rita, Dennis, Ken and Steve all regularly making me laugh?

But, enough of ranting and on with the show - Friday's first episode.

Brian is depressed by salad. Aren't we all? He's in the cafe with Julie, who tells him she doesn't want him dropping dead in an orange grove like Marlon Brando. She wants him to be a vigorous daddy. Brian doesn't think it's fair that he's confined to healthy eating while kids like Amy Barlow are gorging themselves on chicken and bacon pasties. "How do you know it was chicken and bacon?" asks a suspicious Julie.

Norris and Mary discuss the Gazette's story about someone being charged with Frank's murder. Mary thinks that killing for the one you love is the ultimate romantic gesture but Norris disagrees. They're interrupted by Ann coming in. She sees the paper and loses control, snapping at Norris and Mary about their gossip, grabbing a copy of the Gazette and racing out the door, sobbing. "Perhaps I'll get the money off her later," says Norris.

Audrey's going into the salon. Lewis is with her and worries about being seen by Gail, but Audrey kisses him to show she doesn't care. He's determined not to sponge off her and says he's going to find a job and a new flat.

Children going into Bessie Street Primary are searched for contraband confectionery. But around the corner, Kylie takes orders for food from the chippie and promises to deliver it at lunchtime.

Carla, Michelle and Maria are at Peter's flat talking about his confession. Carla's sure that every tear she shed drove him towards killing Frank. It's all her fault. Maria says she's just as much to blame for not reporting Frank to the police much earlier. But Carla's sure that if she hadn't chased Peter obsessively then none of this would have happened.

Julie's getting sweets at the Kabin and Mary asks whether it's true she's expecting. Though it's just so she can deliver a lecture on overpopulation and reckless procreation. "There's not enough room," she says. Through gritted teeth Julie replies: "The way you're going on I shall create a vacancy." Sally comes in and is taken aback to see the arrest story on the front page of the Gazette, with a picture of Frank. Norris and Mary tell her about Ann's reaction. Sally can't imagine what Ann must be going through and says she's going to go round and see how she is.

Dev's got the US Masters on his laptop in the shop and is apparently playing some sort of golf game. "Stocktake going well, I see!" says Sunita. She's come in to say she's on her way to work and to give him instructions for picking up the kids from school and putting on the tea. Dev's not really listening and makes Sunita so angry she slams the laptop shut and storms out.

Ann welcomes Sally into the house and offers her a coffee. She won't let Sally make it because she finds it's better if she keeps busy. There's an envelope on the counter top - Frank's personal effects have been delivered by the police. Ann weeps and says she hasn't been able to open it.

Carla's in the pub and asks for her usual poison. Stella suggests arsenic, says it's a family pub and home-wreckers aren't welcome. As Carla leaves she asks Ken if he's got any message for Peter. She's going to visit him later. Ken hasn't. He resumes his conversation with Leanne, telling her she has to tell Simon what's going on. Leanne's angry that it's been left to her. Ken promises to come round later to help.

Lewis goes into the bistro where they're very busy and Nick doesn't have time to talk. He changes his mind, though, when he hears Lewis would like his job back and Lewis takes off his jacket and gets straight into it.

Brian's in the playground lecturing a member of staff about the need for firm control of the school when he realises some of the kids have battered sausages and Kylie's delivering hot foot through the bars of the gate. He rushes over and tries to wrestle the deliveries from her but ends up falling on his backside with chips and mushy peas all down his front. I can't understand why Kylie didn't take a picture but she just brushes her hands, says her work there is done, and walks away.

In the bistro, Lewis is already making a difference. Gail and Audrey come in and Gail's appalled. Nick pleads with her not to make a scene when they're so busy. Audrey and Lewis play along. Nick refuses to sack Lewis so Gail says they're going to have their dinner in the pub from now on. Lewis and Audrey exchange little smiles as Gail leads her mother out.

Ann and Sally go through Frank's things and Ann reminisces over cufflinks. Ann asks what sort of person Peter is and Sally says that although he drinks and is hot-headed she didn't think him capable of murder. She says maybe his arrest will give Ann some closure but Ann says it won't. "It changes nothing."

In the pub, Gail is still furious about Nick hiring Lewis. Audrey says Lewis can talk his way into anything. "Not with a fat lip, he can't," says Gail, "because I'm going to swing* for him." Audrey says she'll just have to learn to cope.

Sunita takes a phone call for Carl. It seems he's left his wallet at the casino.

Outside the bookies, Leanne runs into Peter's friend Howard, from the support group. He's come to make peace with Peter because they had an argument last time he saw Peter. It seems Peter came to see him, drunk, the Monday before last, arriving about 11pm and staggering off at 2am after Howard tried to sober him up. Aha!

Carla's visiting Peter. He tells her he had no option. "Frank's gone and you're safe." It soon becomes clear that he's talking about confessing, not murdering Frank. Frank's gone now and he knows it was the only way Carla could ever have found peace. "I am happy with what I've done." Carla asks whether he's lying or whether he's remembered what happened. It seems to occur to Peter that she thinks he really did kill Frank - which means she didn't. He says he told the police it was a fight that got out of hand.

Leanne tells Stella that Howard's story means that Peter's got an alibi. She didn't tell Howard that Peter was under arrest, though. She just said he was away and promises to tell him Howard had called round. She tells Carla that this means Peter lied to save Carla. He chose Carla over his own son. "He's made his bed and he can rot in it as far as I'm concerned!"

The End of the first episode.
Margaret Carr

* Gail used "I'll swing for him" in the sense that she'd take a swing at Lewis. But the saying originated in the days when hanging was the penalty for murder, meaning the speaker would kill someone and thus "swing" at the end of a rope. [/pedant mode off]

Written by: Chris Fewtrell
Directed by: David Kester

Sally is sitting with Anne and commiserating with her over Frank's death. She asks her what her plans are now, but Anne hasn't made any yet, and tells her she is taking things a day at a time. She also says she is glad her husband hasn't had to deal with losing his son. Sally tells her that Frank had treasured his father's watch, and never took it off, which reminds her that she hadn't seen it since Frank died. She asks Anne about it, and Anne says she hasn't seen it either. Sally advises her to contact the police immediately so they will find it before it goes permanently missing.

Stella is urging Leanne to go to the police to tell them that Peter has an alibi for the time that Peter would have been murdered, but Leanne is still very angry, and doesn't want to do it. She is certain he has confessed to protect Carla, and feels they are both getting the punishment they deserve. Stella asks her if Simon deserves that kind of punishment, whether he deserves to go to school being teased about having a murderer for a father, which leaves her thinking.

Carla is visiting Peter in jail, and is pressing him to tell her whether he knows what happened that night or not. He is tight lipped and tells her that he has done what he has to do, and for her to leave it. She refuses to leave it, and tells him she has to know if he killed Frank. He says he doesn't know, and maybe she could tell him if he did or not.

Julie bumps into Brian walking down the street covered in meat pies and mushy peas. She berates him for falling off the dietary wagon, and that is the final straw, he shouts at her that he hasn't made a mess like that with his food since he was three months old! He calms down somewhat and explains the fracas he recently had at the school gates, only in this version, he is of course the hero of the day. Julie gushes how proud she is of her brave boy, and as she kisses him on the cheek, she pulls a face and remarks that it must have been curry sauce as well. He tells her that he is going home to shower and change, then he plans to wipe the smile of Kylie's face. Julie cautions him to be careful as Kylie is not one to mess with, but he retorts that he isn't either, and the beast in him has been aroused now. Julie gazes at his face in rapture, and I believe we have one of those 'mop moments' that Mike Plowman used to describe in his updates. She grabs his hand and whispers, breathing rather heavily, "Come on, let's get you home and out of those clothes".

In the Salon, Kylie is telling David all about her little adventure, and while he is finding it hilarious, he warns her not to go too far in case Brian takes it out on Max. Kylie is not worried that he would do that, and vows not to back down. David looks a little worried however.

Karl comes into the Rovers and asks Sunita if she has seen his wallet. She lets him know that the casino rang and that he left it there. He is scared now that Stella knows about his secret gambling hobby, but Sunita tells him that she answered the phone and hasn't told her. He is relieved, and has a little moan about Stella hating him to enjoy himself. The banter goes on between them, and she tells him he reminds her of someone she knows, who doesn't know what buttons are for either, and she does his shirt buttons up for him. These two are definitely heading in a direction that will lead them into trouble, mark my words! As he heads out to pick up his wallet, he asks her if she would like to tag along, as she was his lucky charm last time, but she declines and wishes him luck.

Back at the prison, Carla now understands that Peter confessed because he had a hunch that she had killed Frank. She is horrified that he would do something like that on so little evidence. He explains however that his reasoning was that if she didn't do it, then it must have been him. Either way, it's better he takes the blame as she has suffered enough. Carla is livid now, and she hisses at him that she did NOT kill Frank, and so Peter believes that the odds are it was him. Still furious, she calls him an idiot, and tells him this is not the 2:30 at Doncaster, this is murder!

He tells her it is too late to retract his statement now, he has already first told them he didn't remember that night, then he tells them he did, he can't very well tell them now that he doesn't remember after all. Carla tells him that he has to, it is too important not to. Peter replies that they will both go to prison for lying in a murder inquiry, and that she wouldn't survive inside. She tells him she is stronger than he thinks, but when he describes the kind of life it would be for her, she looks decidedly scared. He goes on to say that he is ready and willing to do the time, because he loves her.

After the break we are in the Rovers, and Stella is looking for Karl to lug some mixes around. Sunita tells her that he went out, and Stella remarks that she is sure he is probably boozing somewhere with his mates, Sunita doesn't say a word about the casino, but offers to get the mixes instead.

Kevin and Sally are having a drink together, and Kev is telling Sally that he can't believe she thought for a minute that he would have been Frank's killer. He tells her that even though he was a nasty piece of work, he is not crazy enough to kill him. Sally tells him that nasty piece of work or not, his mother had loved him and that she plans to attend his funeral for her sake. Kevin is shocked that she would do that after her treatment at his hands, but Sally is adamant that she is doing it for Anne.

In comes David and Kylie, still banging on about Brian. Kylie is incensed that he has the nerve to speak about diets when he is, as she delicately puts it, a walking eclipse. Just then, the sun blocker comes through the door and tells Kylie that he hopes there will be no repeat of today's exhibition. Kylie retorts that it will depend upon whether anybody orders mushy peas. Brian tells her that there will be no more orders from the children, and she is to stay away from the premises from now on. Kylie would like to know if that is the case, is she supposed to parachute Max into school? Julie steps in then, and tells her that she knows full well what Brian means, and goes on to tell her that his shirt and tie was completely ruined. Kylie suggests a time machine so she can go back to 1976 to buy him a replacement.

David surprisingly then steps in and tells them to send them the dry cleaning bill and they will take care of it. Kylie is furious, and says there is no way they are paying for it when the whole thing was Brian's fault. A big argument ensues between them resulting in Brian threatening to suspend Max if Kylie insists on peddling junk food to the children. David is horrified, and tells him that he can't do that as Max is innocent in all this. Brian agrees, but says that if he is responsible for bringing riff raff to the school gates, he owes it to the other children to deal with it.

That's it! Kylie is over the edge now, and tells him he can't suspend Max because she is removing him from his dump. Brian asks if that is her final word, and she tells him it is, but will give him a couple more if he wishes. He doesn't, and turns his back on her and leaves.

Leanne appears and Stella tells her that Ken is waiting in the back, and that she hasn't told him anything. She goes through and asks Ken how it's going with Simon at home. He tells her he has been trying to find the right words all day to tell him about Peter, but hasn't managed it yet. She tells him that there is no need to find them now, because Peter is innocent, and she has just come from taking his support worker to the police station to give a statement giving Peter an alibi.

Ken doesn't understand why, in that case, his son confessed to a murder he didn't commit. Leanne tells him he did it for the same reason he trashed their marriage, for Carla. Ken still can't believe Peter would do something like that when he has Simon to think of. Leanne bitterly tells him that he wouldn't have given Simon a second thought, that he puts nothing and nobody ahead of Carla.

DS Nash has come to see Peter. He tells him he is very disappointed as they really thought they had found their man. Peter immediately asks what Carla has said, and is told they haven't spoken to her yet, but plan to very soon, and in great depth. He goes on to tell Peter that Howard Lee from his support group had come forward and given him a rock solid alibi for the time in question. Peter tells him he must be mistaken, but is told it has been checked out very thoroughly, and stands up, much to their disappointment. He will be released on bail, but he asks if he would like to tell him who did kill Frank Foster if he didn't. Peter doesn't answer, which doesn't surprise the policeman, but no matter, he has a few ideas of his own, and plans to speak to her very shortly. In fact, he tells Peter, his actions have made it more clear than ever, and couldn't have pointed to Carla better if he had picked her out in an identity parade. As he leaves Peter sits there looking like a sick parrot.

Sunita arrives home, looks around and the place is a tip. Dev is stretched out on the sofa fast asleep and snoring with the telly still on, the dirty pots with their burnt on mess are in the sink, and what does she do? She sends a text to Karl telling him she hopes he was luckier than her tonight.

Now we are in Audrey's house, and she is getting a lovely shoulder massage from Lewis that she is enjoying rather more than a little bit. She tells him she has realised that she has spent most of her life doing things she doesn't really want to do. Lewis tells her it's the human condition, that most of us have to do the same. He goes on to tell her that right now he couldn't be happier than where he is right now. This pleases Audrey immensely, but is not so pleased when he picks up the paper and tells her that he must find somewhere to live. She tells him there is no rush, but he says he can't stay there permanently or it will confirm every prejudice her family has about him. Audrey says she doesn't care what her family think, but Lewis tells her he knows that isn't true, and doesn't want to be responsible for her becoming estranged from them. They decide to look tomorrow, as tonight they have better plans.

Back in the Rovers, David is quizzing Kylie on what she plans to do about Max's schooling. She reckons she is going to home school him, as other people do it. David remarks that there is a bit more to it than learning how to roll a fag (cigarette) with one hand.

Just then, Tracy comes in guns blazing for Kylie. She demands an apology for giving Amy a pasty. Kylie tells her she didn't give it to her, she paid for it. Tracy tells her not to go near her daughter in future, because unlike her, she wants her child to grow up healthy. Kylie is furious now, and tells her it depends what they serve Amy at the orphanage. David steps in at this point before it escalates any higher and drags Kylie out of there.

Sally and Kevin are walking down the street, and Sally is telling him about the missing watch. Kev tells her that things are bound to get mislaid, as the police handle so much stuff all the time. Just then, they are treated to some unwelcome entertainment as Peter arrives home in a cab just as Leanne and Ken come out of No. 1. Leanne runs over to him and screams at him that she can't believe what he did. He tells her he didn't do it, that's why they let him go. Ken informs him of the part Leanne had to play in his release. Leanne is still hopping angry, and screams that she would have had more respect for him if he had been a murderer, instead of doing what he did to Simon for the sake of Carla. Peter tries to protest that he couldn't remember what happened that night, but Ken is not having that, and tells him he is lying to cover up the fact he was willing to abandon his son for the sake of his lover.

Peter fights back by saying it must be in the genes then. Leanne screams at him that it is always someone else's fault, and he makes her sick to the stomach, and telling him she can't bear to look at him, turns on her heel and walks away. Peter tries again to explain to Ken, but he doesn't want to hear it. He tells him he is glad he is innocent, but disappointment doesn't begin to cover how he feels about the rest of it. He too walks off, leaving Peter standing alone on the pavement.

Kev and Sally have arrived back at Number 4 with their fish & chips. Kevin is saying he kind of admires Peter for taking the blame for Carla, and tells Sally he would have done the same for her in his position. Sal is a little taken aback, but goes on about the murder, speculating that if Peter didn't do it, then who did. She wonders if, as the watch is missing whether it was an outsider who went in to rob Frank, and it all went wrong, and he stole the watch before leaving. She tells Kevin she plans to ring Anne later and suggest she mention her idea to the police when she calls them about the watch in the morning.

In actual fact, DC Nash is at Anne's place at that very moment. He has dropped by to give her the news about Peter's release. She is not happy at all to hear that the killer is still out there, and begs him to find the person who killed her Frank, and soon. As she says that, the camera first goes to Kevin standing on the cobbles, then to Michelle who is locking up the factory, then to Sally who is reading about the murder in the newspaper and then to Carla who is having her glass filled by Peter, who then fills his own and takes a long swig.....we are left wondering as the credits roll.

Christine Warren

Written By Mark Wadlow Directed by Noreen Kershaw

Leanne walks right by Peter who speaks to her. She lets loose with a rant at his expense, calling him on the carpet for putting Carla ahead of an 8 year old boy. He can't say much, he apologizes but infers that she's jealous. Not so, she spits, it's about him putting his own needs ahead of his son's and, by the way, she points out, he looks terrible.

Gail thinks Max should be in school not at home. Kylie has been doing research online and reckons she's got it all in hand even though it's pretty obvious she probably has no idea where to start and what to do. Gail knows there's more to it and you need to be trained. She doesn't think Kylie has the education to teach Max but David defends his wife. The system let her down. Kylie makes her point and shows Gail the rating on Bessie Street school, which is merely "satisfactory". Gail rightly says it's more about Kylie's war with Brian over the lunchbox.

Karl checks the pumps. Looks like one of them needs changing. He spies the cash deposit bag on the bar and takes a few bills out. Sunita nearly catches him but he's turned around in time. He's friendly to a cheerful Sunita and lies to Stella that he's already changed the barrel. Sunita watches him leave with an odd look in her eye. Maybe she did see him take the money?

Kylie, still in pyjamas, decides she's going to start lessons with letters and sounds. She turns on the telly and gets back to a conversation on the phone.

Carla, Maria and Michelle, all dressed in black like a trio of crows, are going to Frank's funeral this morning. Carla's going even if the other two aren't sure but they say they will go. They approach Steve who gazes at the three lovely ladies and mutters something about loving his job.

Brian is outside watching down the road. Gail comes up behind him and knows exactly what he's doing, spying. She assures him Kylie and Max are inside and she's determined to home school the lad. He sighs.

Leanne has told Stella about her confrontation with Peter which didn't make her feel better for it. She really doesn't want it to be harder on Simon than it has to be. Leanne has decided she needs to see a solicitor if Simon is going to be protected. Stella is balancing her books and realizes she's 50 quid down.

Outside the crem/church, Anne is greeting DC Nash who's at the funeral. He's probably hoping to spy on anyone he thinks is a guilty party. Sally is at Anne's side as they greet people and talk. In an answer to Sally's query, Anne says she hasn't asked the police if they've found Frank's watch. DC Nash probably thinks his plan is panning out because just then the cab pulls up and Carla, Michelle and Maria get out and are noticed. Anne is horrified and scurries inside while Sally confronts Carla about causing trouble. Carla wants to pay her respects. Sally thinks it's insensitive and Maria slings back Sally's interruption of John Stape's funeral in her face. Sally ignores that. Carla justifies herself, she was Frank's business partner, ex-fiance and rape victim, why is Sally here? Sally says she's there to support Anne. Carla reckons she's burying some ghosts.

After the break, inside the chapel, the service starts. Sally keeps looking over her shoulder at the three, as does Anne who notices tears coming down Carla's face.

Brian comes to see Kylie to make peace. She's not inclined but lets him in anyway. Max is busy with a game even though Kylie says it's all going well. He's cynical of the need for violent games. Kylie says it's for sounds and coordination. Brian tries to implore her to overlook their argument for Max's sake. She shoves the paper with the "satisfactory" rating under his nose and he starts spouting statistics. You're trying to blind me with science, Kylie hisses. Brian gives up and backs out, but it's clear Kylie has lost that argument.

As Frank's casket is wheeled away, Anne becomes bereft and gets up to leave. But she stops by Carla and whispers her thanks for not making a scene. Carla didn't think she should stay away since she doesn't feel she's done anything wrong. Anne looks at her and puts a hand on her shoulder. In a tone of voice packed with meaning, she says "I'm sorry" and it's as if she wants to say more but can't and she leaves Carla dumbstruck. Sally rushes out after her. Anne insists that Sally tell everyone to stay away. She wants to be home alone! She goes to the car, watched by Carla who looks like she's trying to figure out just what Anne is sorry for.

Sean has arrived in the pub. Stella seems to have called a staff meeting and she tells them that the till was down by £50. Of course, they all jump to the conclusion that Stella has, that she thinks one of them might have taken it. Stella isn't pointing fingers and says she'll overlook it this time but it's the only time. All three of them are offended but Sunita has a more knowing look on her face.

Max is playing with a car under the table and Kylie is having trouble coaxing him out. She bribes him. She pulls the bag of potatoes out of the cupboard. She's got an idea.

In the pub, Tina is very vocally making correct change. Tina mentions to Sean that Stella hasn't accused Karl or Eva. Stella insists she's not accusing anyone yet. Tommy arrives and Sean puts Tina in place to serve him. Tina tells Tommy about the 50 quid. Tommy has found her phone and she hugs him. Sean notices the affection. Sally comes in and tells Stella that Carla had come to the funeral but they behaved. She feels so sorry for Anne but Anne won't accept any help from anyone.

Leanne comes into the betting shop. She apologizes for shouting at Peter in the street but they have to sort it out for Simon's sake. She takes a deep breath and says she's been to a solicitor. She wants Simon to live with her and her solicitor thinks she's got a good chance of getting a residency order. Oh no!

David comes home to find Max and Kylie making finger paint pictures with potato halves with shapes cut out of them (did that when I was in art class in school, too!) She tells him about Brian's visit and then heads to go for a shower. Gail exclaims over the loss of her potatoes with a giggle and cuddle with Max so he knows she's not angry but she does throw Kylie a look over her shoulder. Ooops.

Sunita arrives back in the pub and asks if Stella has found where the money's gone. Nope. Stella asks Sunita to stay for a drink but she has something to do. Elsewhere, Steve is bragging to Tommy about having three gorgeous women in his cab. Tommy tells Tina he's doing a chili for tea but she'll be working. He offers to save her some and moves over to the fruit machine. Sean grins and teases her that Tommy fancies her. Tina says she doesn't fancy Tommy but Sean can see right through her and she admits it but it's too risky. He thinks the risk is worth it but she can always make a Pro/Con list. Not a bad idea.

In a booth, Carla, Michelle and Maria are working on a bottle of wine. Michelle remarks that Carla has been quiet. She tells them about Anne's apology and she thinks she means that Anne knows Frank raped her and was apologizing for not believing her. Carla wonders if Anne always believed it or did Frank confess to her? Michelle thinks maybe Anne just wants to put things right. Carla points out that she should have told the police in that case. They can't really figure it out and Carla has more questions than answers now.

Sally has gone over to see Anne who isn't answering the door. Sally still has a set of keys and uses them to let herself in.

Carl pulls up in front of a Casino. It must be his regular because Sunita catches up with him. She tells him about the till being down.

At Anne's Sally sees bags at the foot of the stairs and slowly goes up, softly calling Anne's name. She finds her crying in a bedroom. Anne asks Sally to go away. She's holding something in her hands. Sally sits down, worried. Anne says, hesitantly that Carla only wants people to know the truth, but she is the only one that knows it. Sally asks what's in her hand and realizes it's Frank's watch. Anne had it all along! Sally quickly puts two and two together and realizes, horrified, that Anne killed Frank! She asks her if she did and Anne says it was an accident after a terrible row. Sally mentions the police but Anne interrupts, saying she can't do that. This has to be their secret. You can see a hint of madness in her eyes, torment. Sally jumps up and runs for the door but trips on a fold in the carpet and knocks herself out when she falls hard.

The end credits go and we have a half hour to wait for part 2

Tvor

Written by Jayne Hollinson and directed by Noreen Kershaw

Sally is lying unconscious at the top of Frank's stairs bleeding from a nasty-looking head wound. Ann steps over her body and heads for the phone, presumably to call for help but when she gets there she thinks better of it. Meanwhile, Sophie is back at home, singing along to the radio and cooking a stir fry. She's obviously wondering where her mother's got to and tries calling her mobile but there's no reply.

Out in the street Sunita is trying to convince Karl to admit that he took the money from the till so that Stella doesn't keep blaming the staff. He's not about to drop himself in it but he promises he'll sort it. Sunita tells him she's worried about his secret gambling habit but he gets very shirty with her for interfering and tells her to back off so Sunita threatens to tell Stella if he doesn't.

Peter turns up at the back door of the Rovers to have a word with Leanne. He's spoken to his solicitor and he tells Leanne his advice is that she doesn't stand a chance of getting custody of Simon. It turns into a slanging match in which Peter reminds Leanne that Simon isn't her flesh and blood and Leanne points out that being brought up by her would be far better for Simon than living with a pair of alcoholics. Peter tells her that if she carries on with this she'd going to regret it and she'll have one massive fight on her hands but she defiantly tells him to bring it on.

Back at Frank's house Ann is frantically stuffing the contents of the bathroom cabinet into her suitcase. It's pretty clear she's about to try and do a runner.

In the Rovers Stella watches Carla hunched miserably over a glass of wine. Kevin comes in and asks whether Stella's seen Sally since the funeral. He's told that she was in earlier but that Ann had some sort of meltdown so Sally has gone to check on her.

At the other end of the bar Sean sees that Tina is making a list of Tommy's pros and cons. She's got loads of plusses on there already so Sean helps her to write down a few minuses such as the fact he can be childish and leaves his stuff lying about. She also adds "vain" to the list although Sean considers that a plus. Tommy calls out to them and they both go rushing over, Sean says they were both talking about him but, quick as a flash, Tina denies it.

Peter and Leanne come into the bar from the back. Peter wants to know if Stella put Leanne up to the idea of taking on Simon. Leanne tells him to go home and see if Cruella's cooked his tea. Stella points out she won't be doing that because she's just left the Rovers. Peter leaves and Leanne says he's right about one thing - fighting for Simon will cost a fortune.

At Gail's they're tucking into takeaway fish and chips on account of the fact that all the potatoes were used by Max for creative purposes. Gail apologises for going off on one earlier but points out Kylie will need to start doing more than potato prints with Max if she's going to be home educating. Gail has the laptop open at a page of information on the National Curriculum and she reads it out for Kylie and David's benefit. It all sounds a bit complicated. David looks quizzical when Gail says she'd like to help and offers to print out the information for them.

Peter and Simon arrive back at the flat to discover Carla's not at home. Simon wants to know what's for tea. He tells his father that that Grandma was going to make chops but all Peter can find in their fridge is half a bag of ready-washed salad so he suggests they go into town for a bit of man time together. Simon visibly brightens at this idea, especially when he's told he can have pizza with as many toppings as he likes. This is enough to make Simon allow Peter to kiss the top of his head and tell Simon that he loves him.

Sunita goes into the Rovers for a glass of wine and Stella observes that she's looking a bit stressed. Tina takes this as a signal that Stella thinks she may be worried about the money missing from the till. Sean and Tommy join in and they all start arguing about it. We see Karl lurking in the background, listening in. He steps forward and asks what's going on. Stella tells him fifty quid's gone missing and he immediately says he knows because he borrowed it. Stella is furious and tells him he's not to go near the till again. Sean and Tina look on open-mouthed while Sunita just looks worried.

At Frank's house, as Ann is about to leave, the doorbell rings. It's Carla. Ann opens the door, intending to send her packing, but before she can stop her, Carla forces her way in. She wants Ann to tell her what she meant when she told Carla she was sorry and whether she knows that Frank raped her. Carla says she's not leaving until she gets some answers.

Carla continues to question Ann about whether she knew all along what happened with Frank but Ann swears that she didn't find out until afterwards.

Gail, meanwhile, has been busy at her computer and is plying Kylie with reams of information about the curriculum. There's even a sheet about P.E. "You don't need a pile of paper to know how to kick a ball about," wails Kylie but Gail says that apparently nowadays you do. It looks as though David has cottoned on to what Gail is doing when he tells Kylie that she'll probably get a visit from the inspectors to make sure she's doing a proper job with Max's home schooling. He adds that she'll need to give up her nail business as teaching's a full time job. Kylie can't cope with hearing any more on the subject and goes to put Max to bed, leaving David and Gail to congratulate each other that their scheme seems to be having the desired effect.

In the Rovers, Stella is apologising profusely to her bar staff for doubting them over the missing money. They grudgingly accept and Tommy points out that it's really Karl who should be apologising.

Kevin goes round to Sally's to find that she's still not back from Frank's house. Sophie says she's worried because she was expecting her back for dinner so Kevin tries calling her again.

Carla is still questioning Ann and asking why she didn't speak up when she found out the truth. Ann says it was too late by then but Carla says she could have cleared her name. As they continue to shout at each other, a phone rings. Ann is reluctant to answer it but Carla insists. Ann takes it out of the bag on the side, looks at the screen and says it's nothing important, cutting off the call.

Across town, Kevin and Sophie are wondering why Sally answered her phone when they dialed the number and then immediately hung up.

Back with Ann, Carla notices that the bag belongs to Sally and asks where she is. Ann tries to bluff her way through and says Sally left her bag by mistake but Carla wants to know why Ann answered Sally's phone and pretended it was hers and, more to the point, what's going on.

Kevin tells Sophie that, if it'll make her feel any better, he'll go round to Frank's to see if Sally is still there.

Ann is still trying to convince Carla that there's nothing amiss but at that moment we see Sally start to come round. She knocks over a lamp and the noise alerts Carla who rushes up the stairs where she finds her lying unconscious again. Carla says they need to call an ambulance but before she can do it Ann has come up behind her clutching a large kitchen knife. Carla tries to talk her round but, as she tries to grab the knife off Ann, it cuts her across the hand. Ann tells her that Sally fell, she didn't hit her but , when Carla asks why she didn't call an ambulance, Ann admits the reason: Sally knows the truth that it was Ann who murdered Frank. Carla is completely shocked by this revelation and asks Ann to tell her, from the beginning, exactly what happened.

Behind the bar at the Rovers, Tina has finished writing her list about Tommy while the object of her desires gets up from his table and says he's going into town. "Where he'll meet some gorgeous girl," points out Sean. He predicts a chain of events which ends with Tina catching the bouquet at their wedding. As the truth of his words sinks in, Tina asks Sean to cover for her and rushes out into the street after Tommy. She cuts to the chase and asks Tommy out on a date the following night which he accepts with alacrity.

Round the corner, Sunita is walking up the back alley on her way to a secret assignation with Karl who has sent her a text. He wants to thank her for not spilling the beans to Stella. He also apologises for snapping at her earlier but says he doesn't have a gambling problem. Sunita doesn't agree but Karl tells her not to worry before kissing her on the cheek.

Back at Frank's, Ann is telling Carla about what happened the night at the factory when she overheard Frank admitting to Carla that he raped her. She's very distraught as she tells Carla it was like watching a stranger rather than her own flesh and blood. As this is going on, Kevin arrives and looks through the glass in the front door from where he can clearly see Ann holding Carla at knifepoint. He rushes round to the side and opens the garage door.

By now Ann is telling Carla how Frank showed no remorse when she went to confront him. She says that Frank as good as killed his father with the worry he'd caused him and so she'd told him to take off his father's watch because he didn't deserve to wear it. By this point Kevin has found his way inside the house. As he creeps into the room Ann becomes almost hysterical as she reaches the part of the story where she describes hitting Frank with the whiskey bottle. She sobs out the last few words when she tells Carla how she felt for Frank's pulse and realised that she'd killed her own son.

Carla tries to calm her down and says that the police will understand but Ann cries that she can't speak to them. Carla tries again and asks Ann to give her the knife. As she's about to hand it over, Kevin comes in from behind and Ann screams in panic. Carla shouts at her that she must stop because they have to get Sally to hospital. Ann finally drops the knife, Kevin rushes to find Sally and Carla goes to call an ambulance, while Ann collapses in a sobbing heap.

At the top of the stairs, Kevin leans over Sally's body. "Please Sal, don't leave me," he begs as the titles roll.

Karen

We open with Sally, still unconscious in hospital, with Kevin at the bedside. A worried and tearful Sophie comes in and Kevin goes off to stretch his legs, suggesting that she says a prayer for her mum, as he says he has been doing.

In the flat, Carla gets off the phone and tells Peter that Anne has made a statement, admitting everything. Just then Michelle arrives, amazed at the news.

Dev arrives home with flowers for Sunita, and suggests they go out for a nice romantic meal, just the two of them, as it's her night off. Sunita, however, is morose and quiet, and tells him she just fancies a night in for a change.

Carla and Michelle are now in the office at the factory. Julie drags Fiz into the office, wanting to know if what they've heard is true, that Frank's mum murdered him. Carla confirms that it is indeed true, and tells them to get back to work. They start to ask questions, but she won't answer any. Michelle hustles them out of the door and asks that they don't pester Carla with any more questions, she's been through enough and doesn't want to talk about it. She asks them to tell the others and they say they will. #

In the Platt household, Kylie is finding that teaching a 5 year old isn't quite as easy as she thought it would be, and Max isn't enjoying it either. He tells her he wants to go back to proper school, but she tells him he's not going. David suggests that maybe he should go back, Kylie has made her point now.

Audrey comes out of the salon, talking on her phone, telling Lewis, who is lurking around the corner, that she'll be with him in a moment. However, just then Gail comes along and suggests they go to the Rovers. Audrey can't think of an excuse so has to go with her.

In the Rovers, Julie and Fiz are telling Tina about Anne killing Frank, and she passes this on to Gail when she serves her.

Sunita comes in and asks Karl if he still wants her working there, will he find it awkward. He says he would find it a lot more awkward trying to explain to Stella why she's left. So of course he wants her to carry on.

Tommy is asking Tyrone where he thinks he should take Tina on their date. He doesn't want to blow it. Tyrone says it doesn't really matter, what matters is the chemistry between them.

The doctor comes into Sally's room and tells Kevin and Sophie that Sally has some internal bleeding in her head. They hope it will stop of its own accord, but if it doesn't they will have to make and incision and drain the blood off. They'll make a decision in the morning. Kevin and Sophie are really worried, this sounds so serious. Kevin blames himself, he hadn't done what he'd done, they'd still be family and none of this would have happened. He's learned now that there's a price to pay for everything, and Sally is paying that price right now. He breaks down, sobbing.

Dev takes flowers to Amber, who is working in the shop. He wants her to babysit while he takes Sunita out, but she already had plans to go to a party. However, she should have been working the late shift in the shop, and was planning to ask him if she could change that shift. Now, of course, he won't allow her to, and says that as her employer, he wants to employ her as a babysitter.

Peter goes to see Carla at the factory. He wants to make sure they say the same things to people when they ask if it's true that Anne killed Frank, and what the reason was. Carla tells him she's not saying anything, she doesn't want to talk about it, she just wants it all to go away. He suggests they go off on holiday but she feels that would just be running away.

Dev is back at home, trying to persuade Sunita to go out to dinner. He's already booked the table. She tells him to unbook it. He continues to whine and wheedle and eventually, by waving a five pound note, gets the twins to agree that he and Sunita should go out. In the end she gives in, saying he's got his own way as usual.

Tommy, all clean and smartly dressed, is waiting for Tina to be ready to go out. She tells him she had a ten percent off voucher for the Bistro, but doesn't know where she put it. He says he'll look for it, and goes through the contents of the waste paper basket. In there he finds her list of his good and bad points. He doesn't look happy.

Amber is installed in the living room, ready for her babysitting duty. She tells Dev that she could still go to the party and take the twins with her. Dev points out that they are 7 years old. She says she could leave them in the car, all wrapped up and sleeping. He tells her that is an absolute no. Sunita comes down and tells her that for once she agrees with Dev and it's not going to happen.

David and Kylie see Brian and Julie in the pub. David asks Brian if Max can come back to school, but Brian decides to be difficult and tells them that Max's place has already been given to another child. Kylie doesn't believe him, and tells him that's reminded her why they took him out of Brian's pathetic little school in the first place. She storms out, leaving David to say they only want what's best for Max, before she drags him out behind her. When they've gone, Julie turns to Brian and asks if it's true. He says the place could have gone to another child, it's a possibility the Platts didn't even consider. Julie is cross.

Tina and Tommy are in the Bistro, looking at the menu. He starts to comment loudly on the contents of her list, how he's childish, immature, vain etc. and stands up, making a scene. When she gets him to sit down, he shows her the list he found in the bin.

Dev and Sunita come in and sit at a table, Dev orders champagne although Sunita doesn't want any.

Tina tells Tommy that the list was Sean's idea, but there are good things on it too. They start to argue but then Eva comes to take their order. Tina orders soup and a hamburger and asks Eva to throw the list away.

David and Kylie are at home when Gail goes to answer the door. It's Brian and Julie. She has obviously coerced him round to say that Max can come back to school. He adds that Mrs Platt must give her assurance of future good conduct. Kylie wonders what class he thinks she's in. David persuades her to say yes to the offer, and Julie drags Brian out of the door before any more arguments can explode.

Sunita's mood has mellowed and she and Dev are snuggled together on a bench seat in the Bistro. She tells him she loves him, and they decide to go home for coffee so that Amber might still be able to get to her party.

However, Tommy's mood hasn't improved and he and Tina continue to bicker until she says she's glad she's found out the truth about him and she gets up and heads off out of the door.

Dev and Sunita arrive at their front door to find Fiz and Chesney from one side, and Tyrone from the other, yelling at Amber to keep the noise down. It seems that as she couldn't go to the party, she has brought the party to her. Dev goes in and starts shouting at everyone to leave, and is followed by Sunita who is horrified to find the twins sitting on the stairs. "Amber, how could you?" she shouts, "I'll never forgive you for this!"

In the hospital, Sophie tells Kevin that she should be thanking him that he didn't let her marry Sian.

Back at Dev's, Sunita and Amber are shouting at each other. Amber tells Sunita she knows she never wanted her there, she doesn't like her. Sunita agrees, she tells Amber that she's lazy and deceitful and has no time for her or her father unless she wants money. Dev pleads with them both to stop it. Amber says she will stop it - by leaving! She shouts that they can find someone else to be their servant because as of tomorrow she won't be there any more!

Anne Logan

It's morning and Dev and Sunita's place has that after-party stench of accusations. Sunita insists the place has been trashed and Dev reckons a bit of carpet shampoo will make it all lovely again. Sunita wants to go and drag Amber out of bed, Dev doesn't think that's a good idea. "Just in case you've forgotten, she was threatening to leave last night." Sunita thinks that might be a good thing. Dev disagrees and promises to have a stern talk to Amber. "Oh, she's so got your number," sneers Sunita, who is heading off to work. Dev calls after her to ask whether she'd feel the same if, in ten years, Asha was the one threatening to leave.

Audrey and Lewis have a wee cuddle as bacon cooks. Audrey has to go to work, she says. Oh, wait a minute. Hang it! She's going to stop thinking of others and start living.

David's having his own breakfast when he gets a call from his Gran, though she sounds more like the dear, late Phyllis Pearce. She croaks that she thinks she's got that bug that's going round and no, he mustn't call round - she'd hate him to catch anything. When she finally ends the call, Lewis tells her she's surely going to Hell.

At the hospital it's decision time. But Sally's had a good night and the doctor tells Kevin and Sophie they don't think they'll need to operate. She doesn't explain why every TV drama seems to think every unconscious patient needs to be on a ventilator!

Sunita's at work in the Rovers, slamming things around so Karl can't help but notice. Sunita tells him about Amber throwing a party and admits she said some pretty nasty things to her. Karl assures her that these things can always be mended.

In the salon, Gail's come to see Audrey and is surprised to find she's not there. After hearing David's description of Audrey's call, she decides to ring her herself.

Audrey and Lewis are reading the papers on the sofa when the phone rings. Audrey sees it's Gail and puts on a very croaky voice again. Gail tries to persuade Audrey to go to the doctor but Audrey says she'll be all right and again refuses all offers of help.

When Gail hangs up she has a feeling that something was very odd but can't say what it was.

When Dev calls round to see Amber she's still angry and won't let Dev come in. She says Sunita's always had it in for her. Dev assures her that Sunita was just angry and is sorry for what she said. "You can't deny you were out of order last night," he says. Amber admits she was but says that still didn't give Sunita the right to say what she did. Dev assures her that she will get an apology. "It would break my heart if you went like this."

At the hospital, Sally starts to wake up and Kevin goes running to find some help.

In the pub, Ken tells Karl he's glad to see the back of the big TV. Karl gives up trying to chat with Ken and turns to Sunita, instead. Sunita tells him Amber's acting like a spoiled brat. But Sunita is prepared to let it go as long as she gets an apology and Amber makes a serious effort to change her ways. She's not long said this when Dev and Amber come into the pub and ask if they can talk.

Sally's awake now, though still groggy and the doctor says there appears to be no brain damage. She says Kevin and Sophie can go in to see Sally but mustn't expect too much.

The Alahans have gone home for their chat. Dev says he's had a long talk with Amber and he thinks they just need to find some common ground. Amber agrees, as long as she gets the apology he promised her. Sunita's appalled at this. "You trashed the house and you expect an apology?" Amber shouts that she didn't trash the house. Dev is sure they can sort things out if the women both apologise. From the way they're glaring at each other, that won't happen any time soon.

Steve calls round to return a book Amy left behind and Tracy seems to be being very nice to him. He immediately realises she wants something and she pleads that Amy needs a new coat. Steve says he pays the rent on the house and pays maintenance. Tracy should be putting money aside out of this for unexpected purchases. Tracy says she's at full stretch. "Then get a job!" he tells her. Tracy pouts that he doesn't seem to care that his daughter will be laughed at and will have no friends.

Dev says he told Amber that Sunita didn't mean what she said in the heat of the moment last night. Sunita objects and tells him this isn't just about last night. Amber's been taking advantage ever since she was kicked out of college. Last night was just the latest in a long line of things. "I told you she hates my guts!" shouts Amber. She's going to finish packing, get in her car and drive away and Dev will never see her again - ever!

Sally asks about Ann and is brought up to date with developments. The doctor says they'll monitor her for 24 hours and then she can be moved from intensive care. Oh, and the police want to interview her.

In the corner shop, Steve and Ken discuss Steve's financial situation when Tracy comes in. She sees them and tries to back out but Steve demands to see Amy's new coat - though Tracy seems to have quite a few bags of purchases with her . . . He grabs one and finds a new blouse. Tracy admits it came out of the money Steve gave her for Amy but says it was very cheap because it was in a sale. He demands to see the receipt but she says she's lost it. She hustles out of the shop and Ken tells Steve he'll have a word with her.

In the salon, Gail tells Maria and David the news that Sally's awake. Then she demands that David drive her round to Audrey's to check how she is.

Amber's loading stuff into her car. She's going to stay with a friend in south London. Dev hands her a heap of money and they hug and have a little cry. After promising to ring as soon as she gets there, Amber drives off.

Audrey and Lewis are still on the sofa. They've been watching a film and eating chocolates and now Audrey fancies a Chinese takeaway.

Gail and David pull up almost directly outside. They've got soup, bread and cheese, though David doesn't think Audrey will fancy eating much if she's ill. They see Lewis come out of the house and go to his car, and Audrey dash out after him to hand him some money.

Dev demands to know whether Sunita's happy now that Amber's gone. He thinks Sunita just doesn't like Amber because she's Dev's daughter by another woman. But Sunita tells him she's sorry Amber's gone but Amber is lazy, rude, was cruel to Sophie and is a liar. Dev nastily says that Amber is his flesh and blood and Sunita drove her away. Sunita says: "It's like everything else in this house. What you want has to come first!" Their relationship is just the same and she's tired of trying to make it work, she says. Dev tells her there was nothing wrong with their relationship until last night. Sunita thinks this shows how little Dev understands. She's tired of trying to explain herself. "Let's just call it a day, shall we?"

The end of the first episode.
Margaret Carr

Written by: Martin Allen
Directed by:Noreen Kershaw

Gail and David are sitting in the car outside Audrey's house discussing what they have just witnessed. Gail is all for rushing in there guns blazing, but David tells her to hang on, as they can have a little fun with this.

In the Rovers, Sunita is knocking them back, and Stella warns her to go easy, but she is in no mood to listen. So Stella turns her attention to Leanne, and asks her how things are moving along in getting a residency order for Simon. Leanne tells her that according to the solicitor it shouldn't be difficult considering the way Peter has been behaving.

Kevin arrives and is beaming from ear to ear. Everyone wants to know how Sally is, and he is happy to tell them that she has come round, and will be fine. Karl insists that his drink is on the house. They ask if she can remember what happened, and he tells them that her version is the same as Anne and Carla's, so it will be just a formality now, and she will be able to put it all behind her. "That calls for another drink" slurs Sunita, and Karl looks at her concerned.

Audrey's doorbell rings and she happily opens it thinking that Lewis is back already. Her face falls when she sees her daughter and grandson standing on the doorstep. Gail, in a sympathetic voice, asks her how she is feeling, so Audrey has to quickly switch to her 'I'm on death's door' voice and tells them that she is still not feeling very well. The duo smile sweetly and tell her they are there to look after her, and have brought her some food. Audrey tries telling them that she couldn't eat a thing, but they are not going to be put off, and make a move to enter, saying they will put it in the fridge for later. Audrey stops them, saying they don't want to catch what she has, and will just take the food. She then tries to close the door on them, but David stops her, asking who she was expecting to find on the other side of the door when they arrived, and Audrey stammers that it was a neighbour who had said she might pop round. Gail and David then march inside the house saying they are going to warm the soup through for her, and barge past her, leaving her looking frantically up and down the street for signs for Lewis coming back.

Ken spies Tracy inside Roy's Rolls and decides that now would be a good time to speak to her about getting herself a job, and he tries - he really does, but he is no match for his daughter who talks rings around him, and he finds himself not only feeling guilty for not having a job himself, but also finds himself agreeing to pick Amy up from Suzie Taplow's house at 27 Inkerman Street where she is attending a party. Well, he doesn't so much agree to do it, as Tracy asks him, and thanks him in the same breath and breezes out before he has a chance to protest. He is such an amateur when it comes to his manipulative daughter.

Back in the Rovers, Stella is telling Leanne that she is feeling really guilty for taking Frank's side over the rape, and feels it is because of women like herself that raped women don't come forward. Leanne responds in no uncertain terms that she should not be wasting her sympathy on Carla, as far as she is concerned she took her husband and Simon's happiness, and she will never forgive her for that.

As Leanne leaves, Stella moves back to Sunita, who is definitely three sheets to the wind now. She asks her if Dev knows where she is, and she replies "Dev who?" Stella makes it clear to Tina that she wants to speak to Sunita alone, and as soon as she moves away, Stella suggests to Sunita that they move over to the Bistro for a few cocktails. While they are talking, Karl is in the back room safe, removing some money and putting it into his wallet. He hears Stella coming to get her handbag, so throws himself onto the sofa, newspaper in hand. She tells him what her plans are, and that she can tell Sunita wants to talk, so is taking her to the Bistro. Karl asks if it is the Amber thing she wants to talk about, and goes on to tell Stella what happened between her and Sunita, and that the upshot is that Amber is leaving. This then makes sense to Stella as to why Sunita is drinking the place dry, and leaves Karl with instructions to put Dev in the picture as to where Sunita is should he see him.

Gail and David are still having fun at Audrey's expense. Heating the food up in her kitchen, even though she is protesting that she doesn't want it. David then finds the empty chocolate box in the rubbish bin, and give her a hard time about having eaten them, and it's no wonder she is not well after putting that lot away. Audrey manages to escape from the kitchen and frantically tries to phone Lewis to warn him. However, his phone is ringing from behind the cushion - so much for that idea!

Stella is bringing cocktails to the table in the Bistro, and Sunita complains that there is not enough alcohol in hers. Stella tells her that they have to pace themselves as the night is young. She wastes no time in bringing up the subject of Amber so Sunita can get it off her chest, and although she says she doesn't want to talk about it, she does - at length. She tells Stella that Dev should be making his two young children his priority, not Amber. Stella agrees with her, and Sunita tells her she doesn't want to talk about it any more. Stella agrees with that too, and asks her what she is going to be doing for Easter, and Sunita rants on about Amber and Dev once again, so much for not talking about it.

Ken arrives at Number 13, determined to try again with Tracy. He tells her that Amy is having her tea with them, which thrills Tracy no end, and immediately assumes they will have her all night, and she will be able to go out. Ken turns off the TV and tells Tracy that this has to stop, that she is taking advantage of people, having them do things for Amy that she should be doing herself. He tells her in no uncertain terms that it is time she stops using her family as an unpaid nannying service, got off her backside, found herself a job and started paying her own way for a change. Tracy protests that she can't just go out and get a job in this recession, and Ken agrees it's not easy but she can try. He then throws the Gazette at her and tells her which page she will find the jobs listed, several of which he has already circled that might be suitable. She tries to protest, but this time, he is having none of it, and tells her he expects her to start looking first thing in the morning because the free ride ends here. Wow! You go Ken!

The meal is now on the table at Audrey's, and David and Gail are tucking into it. Audrey is still telling them that she is really not well, and wants to go for a lie down, and would they please go and leave her in peace. Gail protests that she wouldn't dream of leaving her with all the washing up when she is ill, and just as Audrey is assuring her that she certainly can, Lewis arrives back. He comes into the room and stops dead in his tracks when he sees Gail and David. "Lewis, fancy seeing you here" says a smug Gail. Ooh I just want to smack her!

Things are getting very nasty now at Audrey's place. Gail and David are cross examining Audrey and Lewis, and are totally ignoring Audrey's response that it's none of their business. They ask Lewis what he has come back for, possibly the house, or the salon or both. Lewis tries to politely explain that the only reason he is back is because he loves Audrey. Gail is not having any of that, and tells him he is a con artist and a gigolo. Audrey is furious now, she grabs them both and physically throws them out of the house, Gail is just is the process of saying to David that her coat is still inside, when the door opens again, and it comes flying out and lands on David's head. Good for you Audrey, whatever Lewis' motives are, you are an adult, and can make your own decisions!

Back in the Bistro, while Stella is making a trip to the powder room, Sunita has got in some double strength drinks, and is in the process of winking at a fellow at another table. Stella returns and tells Sunita that she thinks she has had enough to drink. Sunita is not ready to call it a night however, and suggests that they get together with the fit bloke at the other table, as he has a mate for Stella. The latter however tries to get her to leave, and gets Sunita's drink all over her dress for her trouble. Sunita feels bad, as it was a total accident, and tries to drunkenly wipe it off, much to the amusement of the two blokes at the other table.

Stella steers Sunita out the door, apologising to the staff on the way. Walking down the street, Sunita is still not finished partying, and suggests to Stella they go into town, but Stella is intent on getting her home. Walking past a car, Sunita decides to climb on it, and ends up dancing on the roof of it. Just then the 'fit blokes' from the Bistro come out, and one is more than a little upset to see her in heels on the roof of his car. Stella apologises to him, explaining that she has been trying to get her down. Dev arrives on the scene, and is not best pleased to see his wife making a fool of herself in public. Stella begs him to get her down, and the 'fit bloke' yells at her to get down, but she is not budging. A police car is driving by, and stops when he see this mad woman dancing on the top of a car. He too tries to persuade her down, as Dev walks off without saying a word. Sunita is drunkenly yelling at him from the top of the car.

David and Gail are back home and of course are talking about Audrey and Lewis. Gail is vowing to David that she plans to be on Audrey's case every hour of every day until she sees sense over Lewis.

Sally is looking much better in the hospital, and has just enjoyed her first meal in two days. Just as the nurse is removing the tray Carla pokes her head around the door and asks if she minds a visitor. After asking Sally how she is feeling, she tells her she hopes she doesn't mind her coming, but they have a lot to talk about.

Dev is in the Rovers, and is bending the ears of Tina and Karl about how badly treated he has been at the hands of Sunita. Just then Stella comes in and gives him an earful for not helping her to get Sunita down, because now she has been arrested for being drunk and disorderly and criminal damage, as she broke a windscreen wiper getting down off the car. Dev calmly asks what she expects him to do about it. Stella screams at him that he should go and get her, as she needs him. Dev refuses to go because in his mind, Sunita lost him a daughter today. He figures she brought it all on herself, and if drunk, it will teach her a lesson to stay in jail overnight. Stella is disgusted with him, and Karl looks concerned.

Sally and Carla are rehashing the events of the other night and both agreeing how terrifying it had been to discover that it had been Anne who had killed Frank. Sally apologises to Carla for the way she had treated her, but Carla stops her, and assures her that she understands how she had been taken in by Frank, just as she had herself. She tells Sally that they were both victims of Frank. Sally is crying now, and tells Carla that it is big of her to see it that way after some of the terrible things she has said to her in the past. Carla replies that if Sally hadn't been the one to realise it was Anne, it would have been pinned on her, and thanks her for that.

Carla then goes on to tell Sally that she is now back in charge at Underworld, even though technically 40% still belongs to Frank. She then offers her a job. Sally is very touched that she would do that after all the bad feeling, but Carla assures her she is not doing it for charity, she needs good workers, and she is good. Sally happily accepts. With tears in both of their eyes now, Carla leans over and kisses her on the cheek, telling her they will put it all behind them together. Sally smiles through her tears and nods.

A sober Sunita is being shown out of the police station with both a formal and a written warning. She is told that the owner of the car will be in touch with her through his insurance company, and that she should stay away from drink, as they don't want to see her there again, or she wouldn't get off so lightly next time. She assures him that it won't happen again.

She turns to leave, and sees Karl standing waiting for her. She asks what he is doing there, and he tells her he is there to take her home. Outside it is still dark, so they must have given her a whole pot of black coffee or something to have her this sober this soon. She asks Karl about Dev, and he tells her he didn't want to come and pick her up. She mutters that it's probably just as well. Sitting in the car, she breaks down in tears and tells Karl she feels so ashamed that she slagged off Amber for being out of control, then goes and does exactly the same. He puts his arm around her and hugs her, telling her that she has been under a lot of pressure. She replies that it is no excuse, that she is the mother of two children and should know better. Karl tells her not to be so hard on herself, that it will probably never happen again. She thanks him for coming to get her, and tells him that she must look a right mess. He assures her that she will never have to worry about that, as she is the sexiest thing on legs. Sunita is taken aback and very flattered. She quickly moves across the seat and kisses him, he doesn't exactly fight her off. However, she breaks away from him, and looks horrified, telling him that she has now done something else stupid. She gets out of the car and starts running, Karl asks her how she is going to get home, and she calls back that she will get a cab. As the credits roll, she is running past a parked police car, and what looks very much like Roy's woody, but I don't think that has anything to do with the storyline!

Christine Warren

Written By Jonathan Harvey Directed by Nicky Higgens

Dev is surly to Sunita this "morning after" Sunita's drunken escapade. He hurls abuse and calls her down for shaming him. So ashamed, she points out, he didn't even bother to fetch her from the police station. She admits she was an idiot but she wonders if he thought about why. Sarcastically he says it must have been a cry for help? No, she spits, it was a scream. Looks like that marriage has cracks in it the size of the San Andreas fault!

Audrey and Lewis are enjoying croissants and coffee for breakfast. They discuss the fact that their relationship is out and Audrey doesn't see the point in being secret anymore. They resolve to face the day with Dunkirk spirit.

Paul runs in late home from his shift. Eileen had found Lesley up in the middle of the night making sandwiches. Lots and lots of them. Paul offers a night off on Thursday as he's swopped shifts with someone. She gets off to work and they kiss.

Beth is hollering at Craig to get off his backside and get to school. Tracy comes in with her usual scowl and hollers at Beth. She wants the rat cage cleaned and is outraged that her perfume bottle has been broken. Turns out it was Craig who did it by accident but he cleaned up the bits of bottle and put it in a plastic bag. Tracy orders them never to go near her things again and storms out.

Nick and Eva wander off to work. She seems to have made herself quite comfy at Nick's. She loves the bed, the shower etc. Sounds like she's angling for a permanent move-in invite. As they pass the cafe, David comes bouncing out with his usual sardonic remarks about the loved up couple. Eva is all giddy, Nick is quiet. When David asks if she's moved in, her answer indicating she's more or less done that and Nick's to say no she's not are contrary. David wishes he and Kylie could have their own place but they can't afford it. Any money goes back into the salon but it's for their future. After he leaves, Nick gives Eva the afternoon off but she doesn't want to leave his side!

In the cafe, Maria is having breakfast with Sean and Marcus. They're talking about Eileen's situation. Sylvia comes over and tries to make nice with little Liam who's too shy to respond so she turns her back with a few choice words about rude children. The conversation turns to Dylan and how much they miss him.

David and Gail see Audrey and Lewis drive up and kiss goodbye. Deirdre and Tracy come out of the house and see it too with a groan.

Stella remarks how quiet Karl is. He notes that they've run out of hotpots and should probably call Betty to see if she's made another batch. (where? from home? I guess this is another hint that she's been off sick) Sunita enters a bit embarrassed. She apologizes and said a friend had picked her up, rather than saying that Karl had done it. She admits that she and Dev haven't really talked about it all yet. Stella expresses sympathy.

Steve encounters Ken who's on the way to the library. they talk about Tracy not finding herself a job yet. Ken did have a word but it couldn't have helped. Steve moans about Tracy fleecing him.

Deirdre is gossiping in the Kabin about Audrey and Lewis in full snog on the street. Rita is not judging. Norris is. Deirdre asks for cigarettes to ease the pain.

Tracy comes in from wherever she's been and dumps the junk mail in the bin. She lifts the lid on the breadbox and Craig's rat comes squeaking out at her, giving her the fright of her life!! Can't blame her on that one! Craig has just come in so it must be dinner time and hurries over to comfort his poor frightened pet! Beth comes in as Craig has picked it up to cuddle it and she asks the question I want the answer to as well, how did it get in there? (out of its cage, lifted the lid on the metal bread box... must be a super rat!) They giggle over Tracy's reaction as she runs upstairs away from it.

In the Bistro, Nick, Eva and Lewis are exchanging small talk when Norris comes in to make a booking, eyes bugged out at the sight of Lewis. He books a table for four at six. Gail comes out and listens to Lewis tell Nick that he and Audrey are back together. She lets loose with a stream of vitriol at Lewis' expense. Nick scolds her and Lewis implies she's an unhappy woman in her own life. Nothing stops Gail. Norris enjoys the show.

Sunita comes out of the pub kitchen, arms full of hotpots and tells Karl they are running low (thought they were out?) She asks if Stella knows anything about the night before. He assures her that Stella doesn't know he picked her up. She apologizes and when Stella pops her head around the door, she takes the plates from Sunita leaving the two of them alone for a minute. They're standing close and Karl leans in and croons that she's an amazing kisser. She blushes but looks kind of pleased.

Sean and Marcus share some chips and Sean asks Marcus to go out tonight. Marcus has already said he'd take Liam to nursery in the morning and if he's out late, he might oversleep. He urges Sean to go anyway but he doesn't want to go on his own. Sean says he was touched by how Marcus was talking earlier about Dylan as if he was their son, not just Sean's. Marcus interrupts, assuming that Sean might be having second thoughts about adoption but that isn't the case. He's clearly disappointed.

Audrey comes into the pub to find Kylie, David, Gail and Deirdre watching her. They all have a go at her but she's not letting it get to her. She accuses Gail of being jealous that she's found happiness. She defends Lewis and says they should give her a break.

In the factory, people are asking after Sally who's recovering. Eileen is passing out all the sandwiches Lesley made though Beth was put off when she finds out Lesley made them. Nobody else is. Beth acts like Lesley must have cooties or something and Eileen snaps at her but apologizes because she's not had a lot of sleep. They invite her to go for a drink after work and she thinks that's a good idea.

Dev is behind the counter in the shop and asks Stella if Sunita still has a hangover. Stella puts her saint hat on and points out that he needs to talk to Sunita who seems to have her head all over the place these days.

Gail is running the Hoover industriously. Nick comes in and turns it off and gives Gail a hard time. Audrey is currently with Lewis in the Bistro and is upset about Gail's attitude and he also gives her heck about laying into Lewis in front of customers. Kylie and David have followed him in and their argument defends Audrey against Lewis taking advantage of her again. Gail decides to go to the Bistro to sort things out once and for all. (in front of the customers yet again)

In the Bistro, Lewis is suggesting a few days away. Audrey feels that's like running away from the bullies. Gail bursts in with Nick on her heels. Lewis tries to point out that fighting in the workplace is the height of vulgarity. Gail calmly asks Audrey to think about what she's doing and calls her deluded. Audrey is in love, and wonders if happiness is so alien to Gail that she can't recognize it when she sees it? Gail hurls a bluff and says if she's not going to change her mind, then she doesn't want Audrey to speak to her again. Audrey's face falls.

Dev approaches Sunita who's in the back room of the pub. He asks Stella if he can take Sunita home to talk. Stella is fine and offers her the rest of the night off. She whispers to Sunita that it will be ok.

Ken arrives home from the library to find Tracy and Amy eating their tea with Deirdre. He asks who paid for the tea. He scolds Deirdre, he scolds Tracy. It all descends into a row and Ken turns around and decides to go to the pub. Deirdre huffs that she'd like to smack Ken sometimes.

Lewis and Audrey come out of the Bistro. Audrey is shaken and thinks Gail will get over it but her confidence has been bruised. She thinks Lewis' idea of going away on a holiday was good but thinks maybe they should go permanently.

Tvor

Written by Damon Rochefort and directed by Nicky Higgens

Audrey and Lewis arrive back at her house. She's in a total tizzy after her run-in with the family and heads straight for the wine. Lewis asks her if she was serious about the two of them going away together and it sets Audrey thinking. In less time than it takes her to say round-the-world-cruise she decides to give her accountant a ring to see if she can free up some funds. She tells Lewis that there's no reason they shouldn't leave as soon as possible. Lewis looks delighted at the prospect as they clink their wine glasses together.

Kylie and David go into the Bistro to see Nick. David reminds everyone that Gail's in the right over her fight with Audrey but Nick points out that Audrey has made her own choice and he's going to ring her to make sure she's O.K. At that moment Norris arrives with Rita, Dennis and Mary; he's most disappointed to discover that Gail and Audrey are no longer there and that the cabaret is over. Eva shows them to their table. "Once more unto the breach" quips Dennis. "Is that the bard I can hear?" responds Mary. "It's Adele," says Eva helpfully as we pick up the music in the background.

Nick can't get through to Audrey on the phone. Kylie thinks she must be out celebrating and says she knows she would be if she found out Gail was never going to speak to her again. David tells her it's serious. David feels that nobody is as bothered by the situation as they should be but Nick points out that they have to face facts: Audrey is in love with Lewis and no amount of threats from Gail is going to change that.

Sunita arrives back at home with the twins and Dev. She hugs the children and Dev sends them off upstairs to get ready for bed. He tells Sunita that she's good with the children. "You mean when I'm not getting drunk or arrested?" she asks, spoiling for a fight. She sends Dev upstairs to see to the children while she gets the tea on.

The atmosphere is a lot more convivial round at Deirdre's. Tracy has arrived back from yet another shopping spree, Amy is upstairs in the bath, Ken is at the Rovers and Deirdre is doing her best to demolish a bottle of Rioja. They start discussing Ken's shortcomings and how unfair he is to Tracy. Deirdre suggest to Tracy that she should go upstairs to get Amy out of the bath but Tracy is far too exhausted after her shopping trip so, keeping up the habits of a lifetime, Deirdre indulges her daughter and tells her to put her feet up while she looks after Amy and puts a brew on. Tracy's contribution is to down the remains of her mother's wine.

In the Rovers Ken has been pouring out his woes to Sean and Marcus over a half pint of beer. Steve comes in and tells Ken he's all ears if he wants to talk to him. He offers to buy Ken another half and we know things must be serious when Ken tells him to make it a pint.

Maria arrives and joins Marcus at the bar. She tells him that Kirk is at home reading Harry Potter to Liam. He hasn't even reached the end of the first page and Maria hasn't the heart to tell him he has another six books to go after that one. Marcus and Maria decide to share a bottle of wine together and Sean is quite put out that Marcus wants to do that when he wasn't prepared to go out with Sean for the evening.

Back at Dev and Sunita's they are discussing their problems over the dinner table. Dev points out that now Amber is gone Sunita should stop using her as a scapegoat but he can't see that she hates the fact that he expects her to look after the children, run the home and work in the shop while he gets to do all the things he enjoys such as playing golf and just comes swanning in when it suits him. He brings up the fact, once again, that she got drunk and was arrested and says he doesn't understand. "No you don't," says Sunita with finality.

There's more drinking going on back at the Rovers but this time it's Eileen with Julie, Beth, Izzy and Gary. Eileen appears to be having a really good time and is even chatting quite happily about her current domestic arrangements. She's delighted to have the night off to let her hair down but, just at that moment, who should walk in but Paul and Lesley. It seems that one of the lads has called in sick and there's no one to look after Lesley. Eileen is resigned to going home but there's no way Julie's going to let her sister miss out on her evening and so she suggests Lesley should join them. Beth is the only one who looks decidedly uncomfortable at this idea.

On the other side of the Rovers Maria is telling Marcus about the Easter fair at Liam's nursery. Liam is insisting on going as the Easter bunny but he needs a costume and Maria can't sew. Marcus glances in Sean's direction and says with a wink that he might be able to pull a few strings.

At another table Steve looks as though he's regretting offering to buy Ken a pint as he is boring him rigid with talk of Tracy. Ken finally gets the message and declares the evening will be a Tracy-free zone before asking Steve if he's heard anything from Lloyd. Before he can answer, Beth cuts into their conversation and starts sounding off about Tracy's behaviour that morning and they're back on the old topic.

At Sunita and Dev's, their discussion has descended into a full scale row and they're shouting at each other about what happened the night she got drunk. Sunita is upset that Dev abandoned her at the police station after she was arrested.

Meanwhile, in the Bistro, Dennis, Rita, Mary and Norris are supposed to be discussing the forthcoming wedding but Norris is much keener to talk about the Audrey and Lewis affair. As Dennis gets the conversation back on track and brings up the subject of Norris's best man's speech, Mary reaches under the table and brings out an enormous pile of information on all matters wedding-related. Before the others know what's hit them, she's handing them each a decorated folder containing her plans for the hen night. It would seem no detail has been overlooked, right down to checking the suspension on the pink limousine on account of the cobbles and the risk of osteoporosis due to the bride's advancing years. If looks could kill, Mary's face would be classed as a lethal weapon when Rita informs her she just wants a few quiet drinks with her close friends in the Rovers.

As Gail comes into the Bistro Norris cranes his head round to have a listen in to her conversation with Nick and David. Gail complains she expected a bit more support from her two sons but Nick explains that they think that the more she goes on about it to Audrey, the more she's going to push her towards Lewis. As if on cue, Audrey and Lewis walk in at that moment and Norris's eyes are out on stalks. Gail immediately starts in on her so Audrey gives her short shrift and tells her that it's David she's come to see. Audrey comes straight to the point and tells David that she wants him to sign the salon back to her as soon as possible.

Lesley seems to be enjoying herself in the pub but Beth finds the whole situation very awkward so Julie suggests she should take Lesley and help her to choose a tune on the jukebox. As Gary and Izzy leave the pub they tell Eileen they think what she's doing is amazing. Eileen comments that she doesn't feel amazing. She tells Julie that she feels bad for saying it but she's starting to resent Lesley and she's not sure she can cope any more.

Over at the bar, Sean is complaining to Marcus about volunteering him to make the bunny costume for Liam but when Maria comes over Sean manages to hide his annoyance and Maria's delighted when she finds out he's agreed to do it.

Ken is getting increasingly drunk and is still bending Steve's ear about Tracy. Steve is looking bored rigid but, for want of something else to say, tells Ken that if it all gets too much he can always go and stop with him. Beth sidles up to the table and gives Steve a playful nudge so Lesley asks if that was him she was talking about. Lesley tells them she thinks they make a lovely couple so when Beth asks if they can sit down and join them Steve quickly says that he and Ken are leaving. Ken seems slightly surprised but he obligingly downs his pint in one and lets out an uncharacteristic belch, much to the surprise of the assembled company.

Over at Gail's, Kylie is slobbing out on the sofa when the rest of the family return from the Bistro with Audrey and Lewis in tow. Lewis is explaining to David that signing the salon back to Audrey is just a formality so that Audrey can release some equity. Nick tries to point out that technically it's still their gran's business but David retorts that technically she gave it to him. When Kylie asks what's going on, Gail tells her that Lewis has talked Audrey into selling the business. Audrey just wants the whole matter sorted out so suggests they should sit down and discuss it like adults.

Deirdre and Tracy are enjoying a cup of tea at home when Ken staggers in drunk. They can't quite believe their eyes, especially when he goes searching in the cupboards for a bottle of whiskey. Tracy is showing her mum the replacement bottle of perfume she's bought so Ken starts laying into her and questioning where she got the money to pay for it and why she hasn't found herself a job yet. Deirdre wants to know why Ken is suddenly behaving like this so then he starts on her and blames her for colluding with Tracy. He tells Deirdre she sickens him so she replies that if he finds her so disgusting he knows what he can do and before anyone can say anything else Ken announces that he's leaving home.

Back at Dev and Sunita's things have calmed down somewhat but when Dev offers to open another bottle of wine and calls her baby, Sunita flies off the handle again. She says she doesn't want to fight any more and that she just wants an early night but when Dev says that sounds like a good idea, Sunita replies that she meant on her own. Dev looks thoroughly dejected.

We return to Ken and Deirdre's where she's telling Tracy that it was the drink talking and that Ken's going nowhere. But when Ken appears in the hall with his suitcase and says he meant every word he said , Deirdre changes her tune. As the front door slams Tracy tells her not to sweat it. She predicts he'll stay the night at Emily's and be back the next day with his tail between his legs.

At Gail's house she's just learned that Audrey and Lewis are planning a round the world cruise. Audrey tells them that it was her idea but Gail can't believe that Lewis wasn't behind it. Audrey reacts to Gail by telling her to shut it and Gail is shocked into silence. Audrey points out that when she first wanted to sign the salon over to David, Gail was the one who was opposed to the idea. She also reminds them all how Gail offered Kylie £1,000 not to marry David which, she says, proves she'll stop at nothing to get her way. Audrey tells Lewis that they're leaving but as she goes to walk out she has a dizzy turn. They make her sit down and Lewis turns round and tells the family to look at what they've all done to Audrey.

In the street we see Ken standing with his suitcase, ringing a doorbell. When Steve eventually answers he gives a very good impression of a goldfish as Ken explains that he's left Deirdre and has decided to take Steve up on his kind offer. Steve looks far from happy as he realises he's got no choice but to invite Ken in.

Audrey is being plied with a glass of water and everyone is keen she should go and see the doctor but she insists she's fine. Nick says she needs to take it easy but Audrey replies that what she needs is for her family to be on her side for once. As she gets up to leave David tells Lewis it's all his fault but Audrey springs to his defense and says the fault lies with her for trusting David. She points out that all she was doing when she signed over the salon to David in the first place was to try and protect his future. But Gail is still convinced that Lewis will con her mother out of everything so Audrey tells them she's going to get her solicitor on to the matter and that if David refuses to sign anything then none of them will be getting a penny of her money when she's gone.

Karen

Gail, David and Kylie are discussing the situation with Audrey when Nick comes in and suggests that maybe it's time to call a truce. This is Audrey's money that she's worked hard all her life for, surely she can do what she wants with it. Gail doesn't want her making a fool of herself again, and David says he's not going to let her chuck all her money away. (I'm having trouble seeing how a world cruise, in one's seventies, is chucking all one's money away!) Gail declares that Lewis is a latter day Dick Turpin, and David agrees, which is why the salon is staying in his name.

Meanwhile, Audrey and Lewis are taking breakfast in the cafe. He notices that she's on edge, and suggests she leaves things with the salon as they are, there's a lot to be said for a quiet life. She refuses though, she says there's time for that when she's in her grave. He worries that might come sooner than she thinks if she goes on being so stressed. She's insulted that her family think she doesn't know her own mind. He thinks they should delay the cruise for a few weeks, he'll get some more shifts at the bistro so he can pay his way. (Does he know what a cruise costs? I hardly think a few shifts at the bistro will cover it!) She finally agrees to that, saying she appreciates it, but she's still going to get David to sign the salon back over to her, he's not off the hook!

Steve is just settling down to eat a fry-up and is somewhat disappointed when Ken comes back from the shop, cereal box in hand. Steve thought Ken had gone back home. Ken says he hopes he didn't wake him in the night – his bladder isn't what it was. This seems to be too much information for Steve, who's eating his breakfast!

Deirdre is sitting at her own table, smoking and sighing, with a place set for Ken. Eventually she gets up, stubs her ciggie out in his mug and throws the lot in the bin!

Sean is just on his way out of the cafe with the factory workers' cakes, when Marcus comes in the door. Marcus wants him to stay for coffee but Sean says he has to get back with the cakes. Marcus says he feels like he's hardly seen Sean lately, but Sean reckons it's Marcus's fault. Marcus agrees he's been somewhat distracted of late and promises to make it up to him. He then reminds him that Sean promised to make Liam's bunny costume for the Easter playgroup event.

In the salon, as Sylvia cooks under the dryer, Audrey and David are still at loggerheads over the business, with Kylie chipping in here and there. They are still convinced that Lewis is a con man, just after her money. Audrey says they must think she's so awful nobody could love her for herself, and David is doing just what they're accusing Lewis of, he's stealing from his own grandmother. "You haven't heard the last of this," she tells him.

Eileen and Steve are chatting in the street. Eileen tells him that Lesley is getting worse and Paul is struggling to cope. They are both exhausted. She then asks how things are with him. Steve tells her he's got a lodger. Just as she's wondering if it's Beth, Ken walks past. "There he is now," says Steve. Eileen thinks that's extremely funny and Steve says he'll come round later and tell her all about it. He's looking after Amy, so he'll bring her.

It's lunchtime in the factory and Marcus and Maria have got Sean making Liam's bunny costume. Marcus wants expressive ears – just stick some bendy wire in them – and Maria reckons Liam will be the cutest bunny in the whole playgroup.

In the bistro, Nick, Eva and Lewis are discussing Audrey. Nick asks if Lewis could get Audrey to put the cruise on hold, and Lewis says he will if it will convince the family he's not out to fleece Audrey, he wants to spend the rest of his life with her. He tells them she's still determined to get the salon back from David, but the stress and tension is the last thing she needs.

Steve is in the cafe when Tracy comes in. She tells Sylvia that her dad has shacked up with Steve. Steve looks up from his paper and says it's not like that and she knows it. He tells her that it's her fault that Ken and Deirdre have split up and she should be trying to build bridges between them. Tracy reckons Ken was vile to her and Deirdre and Ken can stay with Steve for ever as far as she's concerned.

Gail goes to the salon and tells Audrey she's been worried about her. Audrey says who would have thought that signing a bit of paper would cause so much trouble. She tells David she's always seen the good in him and thought they were very close. Kylie pipes up that this is just emotional blackmail. David says he knows Audrey has always looked out for him, so now he's doing the same for her. He won't sign, he's protecting her from herself. Gail pipes up that David is right, when Lewis is involved Audrey is not in her right mind. Audrey gets cross then, she tells Gail that she's jealous, and no one will ever love her again, and David is blinded by greed, and it's no wonder, he has Kylie in his ear winding him up. She gets very choked up, saying that even after all they've all been through, what it has come down to is the money. She rips up the contract and says she's going to phone her solicitor and get him to tear up the copy. David shouts back that if it's left to her, she'll end up with no home, no business and no money. "And don't come crying to me because I won't want to know you!" he shouts, storming out.

Ken sees Steve outside and tells him he'll make a lentil stew tonight. Somewhat relieved, Steve tells him he's arranged to go out for a Chinese. Just then Deirdre comes along with and dumps down some plastic bags in front of them. It's some of Ken's stuff, he can pick the rest up later. Ken wonders if she can be any more petty. Steve tries to get them to go to the Rovers and talk it all over, after all they are the perfect couple. "Are you that fed up with him already?" laughs Deirdre, "it's only been one night!" and she goes off chuckling.

David and Kylie are at home. She asks if Audrey can really just tear up their agreement. David doesn't know and is past caring. Kylie however, is not going to give up. She reminds David that he's worked hard in the salon, and asks if he's just going to let Lewis win? She tells him that if Lewis rips Audrey off she'll be a broken, lonely old woman and it will be their fault because they didn't stop her. She thinks they should go to a solicitor and get some advice.

Laden with Chinese food, Steve takes Amy round to Eileen's and introduces her to Lesley, who chats away to her.

Gail is in the bistro, having had several glasses of wine. She tells Eva and Nick she can't believe that her own mother told her she was unlovable. Just then Audrey and Lewis come in and Nick suggests that it's a chance to make it up. Gail however, storms out.

Lesley and Amy are playing with some bubble mixture. Paul tells Steve it's great to get a glimpse of the old Lesley. He then goes off to work, and Eileen mutters to Steve that they hardly see each other any more.

Tracy and Deirdre have also got a takeaway. They discuss Ken and Steve and think they'll both drive each other up the wall. Deirdre is enjoying her 'girl's night in' and says that Ken can stay at Steve's till the end of time!

As Eileen shows Steve and Amy out, she hears some clattering going on and rushes back to the living room. Lesley is turning the place upside down, shouting that she's looking for Amy's photo. Eileen asks why she would have Amy's photo. "She's my niece!" yells Lesley, and starts rummaging through the cutlery drawer. Suddenly she cuts herself and starts screaming.

Lewis finds Audrey in the salon, having the locks changed. She tells him that David must realise that his behaviour has consequences. He tries to calm her down but she tells him that if David wants a fight he's going to get one!

Anne Logan

There's disagreement in the Platt household - Kylie thinks David lacks guts. But no matter how much she bullies him, he's still not sure what he wants to do about the dispute with his Gran. Kylie says he's hopeless.

Paul's made breakfast for Eileen. She tells him about yesterday with Lesley and how Lesley cut herself, but Paul brushes it off saying accidents happen. Then he asks her if she can watch Lesley for an hour at lunchtime while he goes to the bank and to see the builders.

David puts his key into the lock on the salon door - or at least he tries. Audrey lets him in and reveals that she's had the locks changed. David's sure this is Lewis's idea. He says all he's trying to do is protect Audrey. "I'm simply taking back what's rightfully mine," she says. She also reveals she's taken his name off the salon's accounts. "If you want war, Gran, you've got a war!" he tells her.

Steve wakes to Shostakovich and Ken in a kimono. Ken offers to make him a coffee but says he can't find the cafetière. Steve's a good host. He admires the kimono, points out he doesn't own a cafetière and refuses to let Ken make a financial contribution. He makes Ken promises to talk to Deirdre.

Gail can't believe Audrey's changed the locks and David now thinks it's time he spoke to his solicitor.

Over in the salon, Maria and Lewis reassure Audrey. Maria says David's had this coming for a long time.

Steve's visiting Tracy and discovers that Amy's off school. Tracy says she had an upset stomach and blames Steve for feeding her Chinese food. And she attacks Steve for letting Amy visit Eileen's household - she doesn't want Lesley anywhere near Amy.

As Eileen and Sean leave the factory, they meet Maria, Marcus and Fiz with Liam and Hope. They're off to the Easter pageant, with Liam looking very good in the bunny outfit Sean made him. As they go off, Sean looks longingly after them.

The solicitor, clearly sitting in the office of a much older solicitor, tells Kylie and David that it looks as if Audrey is out of order. He says the share transfer would have been registered at Companies House. The first step is to write Audrey a formal letter, though he warns them this could escalate the situation. David says he's done playing Mr Nice.

Lesley's busy changing TV channels as Paul tries to concentrate on some paperwork. He tries taking the remote control away but she snatches it back and starts changing channels again. He loses his rag, leaps up and leans over her, screaming at her. Eileen comes in, calms him down and sends him off on his errands.

Steve's back home. He finds Ken just finishing a major spring clean, which has included throwing out just about everything in the fridge and reorganising the cupboards, sorting everything in categories. Steve's a little freaked out by this but again refuses to let Ken contribute money. That's a mistake, because Ken now wants to pay him back by helping out in the taxi office.

Gail's mopping the floor in the bistro and snaps at Lewis when he arrives. Nick snaps back at her, telling her she should be professional and the way she's treating Lewis could be construed as bullying. He says he's got a duty of care to his staff. Gail takes the chance to lecture him about his duty of care to his family.

Lesley's watching TV when Eileen makes her a salad sandwich, just the way she likes it. But Lesley insists she wants brown sauce on it. [Note for the non-British - HP Sauce counts as brown sauce]

Amy's bored and wants an ice lolly. They don't have any but Amy points out they could get one in the park. Tracy tells her that if she's well enough to go to the park then she's well enough to go to school. She sets Amy in front of the telly and goes upstairs to have a bath.

Eileen offers relish or salad cream but a furious Lesley screams that they're not brown sauce. "Everybody's got brown sauce!" she screams. Eileen says she'll nip to the shop and get some. As she leaves, Lesley very sweetly says thank you. Once Eileen's gone, Lesley hears giggling outside. She goes out and finds Amy playing with bubbles in the yard next door. For some reason these two yards aren't separated by a tall wall but by a low fence. Lesley admires the bubbles and Amy tells her it's better at the park because sometimes the dogs chase them. Lesley would love to see that, so Amy takes her by the hand and leads her away.

Sean's looking at some photos that Marcus has sent him from the pageant. He's a bit grumpy and thinks Marcus is punishing him for saying No to adoption. Julie gives him a pep talk, saying Marcus is just overcompensating because he misses Dylan. After discoursing on the metaphysics of pregnancy she hugs Sean. "Right now, Marcus needs you," she says.

Steve's shown Ken how the switch works in the office, though he's a bit worried that Ken's intellect won't be suited to such work, not like, say, Fat Brenda. That prompts a lecture from Ken about the insensitivity of calling someone Fat Brenda. The phone goes. It seems to be someone who admires Ken's voice.

In the salon, Lewis tells Audrey about Gail's behaviour in the bistro. David comes in, but only to hand Audrey the letter from the solicitor. Audrey tells the others it's a declaration of war.

Eileen's back but Lesley's not there. At the same time we hear Tracy calling Amy. They meet across the back fence and Tracy tells Eileen what she'll do if Lesley's taken Amy. They check out on the street and Tracy says: "If she's so much as touched a hair on Amy's head I'm gonna kill her!"

The end.
Margaret Carr

Written by: Jan McVerry
Directed by: Nicky Higgens

It's panic stations outside number 11 and number 13. Tracy is screaming at Eileen, Eileen is shouting at Tracy, Amy is missing, and so is Leslie. Eileen suggests to Tracy that she check Streetcars in case Amy has gone to visit her Dad. As soon as she has gone, Eileen tries to reach Paul on his mobile.

Cue the inside of Streetcars where Ken is driving Steve up the wall. He is sitting on the switch shooting the breeze with a customer, an old friend - or possibly knowing Ken, an old flame called Marion, while Steve is hopping from one foot to the other, as Ken is tying up the phone and costing them business. Just then Tracy bursts in asking them if they have seen Amy, and she looks very frightened when she realises they haven't set eyes on her.

At Chez Platt, Kylie is having a fit when David tells her and Gail that he has told the solicitor to bill the salon for the £200 for writing the letter, and is counting on her fingers how many acrylics and manicures she would have to do to make that kind of income. Gail asks how Audrey took it, and David tells her that she looked as if she had been stabbed in the back. Gail tells him that it had to be done, but David is feeling quite guilty, saying that it is Audrey's money after all, and why shouldn't she spend it how she likes? Gail retorts that it's not how she likes at all, it would be how Lewis likes. She likens Lewis to a drug that Audrey is addicted to, and they owe it to her not to let her have the funds to feed her habit. She goes on to say that when Lewis finds there is no money to be had, he will soon move on, and Audrey will then thank them.

The panic over missing Amy is now outside Streetcars, and Tracy is screaming at everyone. Steve makes her recall everything Amy had said that morning, and she recollects her saying that she was bored, and wanted to go to the park for an ice lolly. Steve jumps into a cab to head for the park, telling Tracy to go home and call the police and Ken to instruct all drivers to keep an eye out for her, "And use words of one syllable" he instructs Ken.

Maria and Marcus, who is sporting bunny ears, are returning from the play group where Liam was the Easter Bunny, and Maria is admiring the 'stage-mum' skills of Marcus over his ability to put the play group leader in her place. He tells her it was the ears that did it, going on about Beryl Reid having picked the shoes for the character and built on from there. Maria looks at him blankly, obviously never heard of Beryl Reid. "The Killing of Sister George"? Says Marcus, and gets an equally blank stare. "Oh you are SO straight!" says Marcus. Well, considering it was a 1968 film, and Maria is not a lesbian, it isn't surprising she had never heard of it. I love these two together though, they are so easy with each other, it's a pity they are not on the same bus, because they seem to have far more chemistry than Sean and Marcus do.

Tracy is just going into number 13 when Jason passes her, and she has a go at him about his 'lump of a mother' who was supposed to be looking after Leslie, but got distracted, probably by the woman she was supposed to be looking after's husband. Jason looks shocked and concerned when Tracy tells him what has happened, and offers to look for them in his van, but Tracy tells him that Steve is out looking, and his time would be better spent praying that Amy is found, and goes on to explain what her plans are for Eileen if she isn't.

Steve arrives at the park, gets out of the car and runs inside. the first thing he sees is a little girl with long hair, wearing red as Amy had been. A man has his arm around her, and Steve rushes over, stopping himself from making an utter fool of himself at the last minute, when he realises it's not Amy, and the man is helping his daughter up after a fall. He walks around the park calling Amy's name, and suddenly he sees Leslie and Amy at the front of the queue at the ice-cream van.

Now, when you see this episode, I want you to pay particular attention to the fellow standing about 3 adults from the front of the queue. He is an extra called Tom Monks, who was just there for that day. Personally I would like him to land himself a permanent role on the cast because - well he's gorgeous! Don't know yet if he can act, but he's gorgeous! :-) How do I know his name? I know his Auntie. ;-)

Back to the business at hand. Leslie is screaming at the poor man in the ice cream van, which makes Steve spin around when he recognizes her voice. She is trying to get Amy an orange lolly, and is not getting anywhere, quite apart from the fact she has no money on her to pay for it. Steve comes over and reminds Leslie who he is, but she is still fretting about the lolly. Steve orders one from the man and pays for it, at the same time admonishing Amy for taking off without telling a grownup. Amy tells him that a grownup did know, Leslie knew, and Leslie nods in agreement. Seeing that the easiest route is not to argue or get angry, he tells them he will race them to the car, and they both happily chase after him.

In the Salon, Audrey is still very upset over the letter which is still in her hand. She is unloading on Lewis, saying that she can't believe David would do this to her after all she has done for him. Given him a roof over his head when his mother threw him out, gave him a job when nobody would hire him, in fact gave him a career in hairdressing, and made it clear that the salon would be his one day by putting his name on the business. She is not only angry, she is deeply hurt. Just then the other side of the fracas appear, namely David, Kylie and Gail and David asks Audrey if she has read the letter. She tells him she has, and promptly crumples it up, throws it in the bin and sacks him. David tells her she can't do that, and points out that everything popular in the salon is down to him. Audrey poo-poohs that, and tells him she started the business without him and plans to carry on without him, and he can go and find himself a proper job with proper hours and work for a living for a change, as she is carrying him no more.

Lewis can see it is all becoming too much for Audrey, and he tells everyone to leave right this minute, as sits Audrey down. The others of course don't leave, and Gail tells Lewis that they need to get Audrey to the medical centre. Audrey tells them all to go, right now and not to come back. This time they listen, and Audrey is left still shaking, whether from illness or anger is unclear.

A group of concerned people are waiting for Steve to arrive home with Leslie and Amy. Paul is telling Eileen that he was in the middle of rowing with the builder when she called. Sean is trying to show some sympathy to Tracy for what she has been going through, speaking as a parent. Tracy is touched and thanks him graciously - no she doesn't, I'm lying! This is Tracy we're talking about. She turns on Sean and tells him that he has no right to speak as a parent, as Father Christmas sees more of his son than he does. Sean is affronted and tells her he is very committed to his Dylan. Just then Steve pulls into the street, and Paul and Tracy rush to meet him. Everyone is fine, and Leslie can't understand why everyone is making such a fuss over an ice lolly. Tracy asks Amy where Leslie took her. Paul overhears and angrily tells Tracy that it wasn't some kind of wicked plot, that she didn't 'take her away'. Tracy begs to differ, she counters that he wasn't there, so he has no idea how it was. He responds that he knows his wife, but Tracy tells him that it's Eileen he should know, and obviously all she is to him is a handy place to park his wife when he doesn't want to look after her.

Paul is very angry, but it is all going over Leslie's head, she leans over and smiles at Amy, telling her to show everyone the bubbles she has, she touches her gently on the shoulder, and Tracy immediately slaps her hand. Paul loses it now, and tells Tracy that if she lays one more finger on his wife, he will have her for assault. He accuses her of being a bully. Tracy is just as angry, and tells him that she doesn't turn to mush when he smiles at her (getting at Eileen now, who looks as if she wants the ground to open up and swallow her), she finishes it by telling him that he only pretends to be the doting husband, that he palms her off onto anyone who will have her, when in actual fact she belongs in an institution. Sean mutters to Jason that she (Tracy) should be in jail. Tracy goes on to say that Leslie is a liability, and that Social Services should be told. Paul shouts at her that she knows nothing! He tells Tracy that Leslie was confused, and should never have been left on her own (Eileen cringes again), he goes on to tell Tracy that if Social Services get involved, Leslie will never have a normal life again, and asks if she wants that on her conscience. Tracy asks him about his conscience, what if something had happened to Amy? Steve interjects that she has a point.

All this argy bargy has upset Leslie, and she starts to lose it, Paul takes her into the house, waving his finger at everyone, including Eileen, and says "You lot did this!" Tracy has the last word, and this time her venom is directed at Eileen, who looks very near to tears. She tells her in no uncertain terms to get that woman off our street, or she will do it for her. Eileen's bottom lip is trembling as we head into the intermission.

Inside number 11 Eileen is sitting talking to Leslie, and Paul is splashing his face in the kitchen sink. Jason walks into the kitchen and has a go at Paul for humiliating his mother in public. Paul defends himself by saying he was just stating the fact that his wife should not have been left. "Then don't leave her" says Jason. They then get into an argument as to why Eileen helps him take care of Leslie, Paul is under the impression that she does it because she is a good person who wants to help. Jason tells him that the only reason she does it is because she cares for him, and that it makes him ashamed and breaks his heart to watch his mother settling for scraps from him, then to watch him slag her off in the street was the last straw. He tells him that in future if he has a problem with his mother, he is to speak to her in private. Paul retorts that 'private' would be nice, and he would like it if Jason kept his nose out of it. Jason tells him that he would love to, but he cares about his mother and will not see her treated that way. He also tells him that Leslie should not be there, that she is a danger to herself and everyone else. He asks Paul if the problem is money, if he is too cheap to pay for a nursing home. Paul is absolutely furious now, and takes a deep breath ready to give Jason a mouthful back but Eileen appears, and tells him urgently that Leslie needs him - NOW! Which diffuses the situation as Paul moves into the other room.

Jason tells his mother that she needs to knock this situation on the head. Eileen tells him to please just go, as there has been enough fighting in the house today. Jason leaves, shaking his head in disbelief. Eileen looks as if she has gone three rounds, and has not come out the winner.

Ken and Steve are in the Rovers, and Ken is pontificating about how his family reminds him of Christmas Day in the trenches, with a suspension of hostilities, then back to all out war. He goes on to say how happy he is to be working at Streetcars, making rapid fire decisions on the type of banter to use on each customer, and planning all the routes in his head - better than Sudoku! Steve obviously doesn't agree with him, but decides instead of saying it to escape to deal with a call of nature.

On the way to the loo however, he makes a pit stop to speak to Deirdre who is standing at the bar. He tells her that this business with Amy has made them all realise how precious we are to each other, especially Ken, for whom it has been a real wake-up call. Deirdre is quite surprised to hear that, but turns down Steve's offer to join them to share the pipe of peace, and opts for going outside for a cigarette instead. Steve's face contorts into one of his classic gurns as he realises he is still stuck with Ken.

Behind the bar, Sean is relating the turn of events outside number 11 to Maria and Marcus. He is still very peeved about being called a bad father. He then asks where young Liam is, and is told he is at nursery school, and Kirk is picking him up and taking care of him. They all agree that Kirkeh is a star, and drink a toast to him.

Lewis is apologising to Audrey for all the problems he has caused her by coming back. She won't hear of it however, and tells him that the problem is not him, that he is the only good thing she has in her life at the moment. He wants to make her an appointment at the medical centre, but she tells him it would just waste their time, because all she has is a broken heart. Lewis suggests they go away for a few days, he tells her he can't afford the Mediterranean, but knows a little B & B in North Wales they could go to. Audrey is concerned that it will look as if they are running away, but he tells her he prefers to call it "Making them sweat".

Sean has just been talking to Violet, she has agreed they can have Dylan next week. Marcus asks if it is because of what Tracy Barlow said, but Sean says it is because he knows Marcus is missing him - then adds, "And so am I". Marcus then remembers that they will not be able to as they are not in Eileen's at the moment. Maria insists they all stay with her, along with Dylan. (Wouldn't you think Sean would have thought of all this before asking Violet? Lucky for him it's working out) You can hear the seams of Maria's little flat over the Salon groaning in anticipation of having Maria, Liam, Kirk, Ozzy, Marcus, Sean and Dylan all under the same roof.

Steve has talked Ken into going into the Smoking Area with him to 'keep him company', and feigns surprise at finding Deirdre out there. He tells Ken he may as well stay now he is here though. Deirdre and Ken are obviously not as delighted about the coincidence as Steve is! Ken tells Steve that he has felt more welcome in his flat the last few nights than he has felt in his own home for years. Just then Tracy and Amy come into the yard through the gate, and tells them that they don't like them living apart either, and Tracy feels that some of the problem just might have been her fault. Ken and Deirdre continue bickering, and Tracy asks Steve if she should bang their heads together or will he? "I will" calls out young Amy.

David, Kylie and Gail are sitting discussing - who else - but Audrey. David thinks she might have developed Alzheimer's as she has been getting forgetful lately, plus being the right age for it. Besides she has just sacked the best stylist in Weatherfield, so there must be something wrong with her.

Just then the subject of their conversation walks in with Lewis, and seeks out Maria, who is decidedly tipsy by now. Audrey tells her that they are going away for a few days, which Maria supports wholeheartedly. She goes on to tell her that she has fired David, and assures her when Maria is skeptical that she means it, that it is for keeps this time. Maria is quite happy about that too, but at the moment, Maria is quite happy about everything! She is not too drunk to notice that Audrey looks a little unsteady on her feet though, and asks if she is alright. Audrey tells her that she is not really. Lewis then asks Maria if she will keep the salon ticking over while they are gone - without David. David can obviously feel his ears burning, and tells the rest of the family that he knows they are talking about him, and gets up to sort them out. Gail restrains him, telling him that there has been enough upset, and he should rise above it. So no more is said as Audrey and Lewis leave.

Progress is being made, as Ken and Deirdre are now alone and talking inside No. 1. Deirdre is telling Ken how much she felt the need for his support earlier when Amy was missing, and really missed him being there. Ken said he wishes he had known, they then have a little gentle banter about the lingo Ken has picked up while working at Streetcars, but smile lovingly at each other and hold hands. Deirdre then begs Ken to come home and tell her that everything will be alright. He smiles and tells her that although he doesn't have a crystal ball, he thinks he can safely tell her that the two of them will be alright. Awwwww.

Steve is knocking on Tracy's door, and just as she comes out, a despondent Jason walks past carrying a few beers. Tracy of course can't resist giving him a hard time, and he tells them that his mother has fallen out with him. Apparently Tracy is the one who has summoned Steve to tell him that he just might be needed later to move her father's stuff back into number one. However, she also wants him to quiz Jason to find out if Leslie is now safely under lock and key.

Eileen is sitting in her living room, still looking exhausted. Paul comes in telling her that Leslie is now asleep. He spies the piles of washed and ironed laundry and remarks that she has been busy. Eileen tells him that one pile is Leslie's and that it's ready to pack. Paul is horrified, and begs her not to throw them out. She quietly tells him that it's not like that, but they cannot continue on in this way. Paul apologises for blaming her for Lesley getting out of the house, it wasn't her fault as she is not a trained carer. Eileen tells him that this is not an ultimatum, she has decided this because she just cannot see a future for them. He begs her to sleep on it. She assures him that she is not throwing him out tonight, but although Tracy had been vile, some of what she had said was true. That he refuses to face facts, that the situation is too much for him, and he has got to step back and let the professionals take over. He starts to tell her that things will be OK once they get back into their own house, but Eileen jumps on him saying that he will always find a reason not to act. She points out that Leslie is getting more and more distressed while he gets more and more stressed. He is still arguing that other people manage, and she asks him to name those people. She points out that he is a lovely man, but Leslie deserves a lot more than his guilt trip. "I'm sorry Paul" she says as she ends the conversation and leaves the room.

Christine Warren

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Updates written by K Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen,Duncan Lindsay, Christine Warren, Ann Logan, Margaret Carr, Tvor, Karen Jankel.

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