Steve is clearing up in the bar, and tells Liz he's decided to sell his half of the pub and give Michelle what she wants. He's also going to see Leanne and try to get her to see sense. "Good luck with that," says Liz. She's then shocked to learn that Steve has arranged for an agent to come round today and give him a valuation. They haven't even discussed it. "What's there to discuss?" says Steve.

Over in the factory, Fiz is angry with Sinead for breaking Chesney's heart. Beth tells her that Chesney has been packing Sinead's stuff into boxes. Sinead thinks that maybe she could go an collect it when Chesney isn't at home, Beth could let her in, but Beth doesn't want to get involved.

Rosie and Sophie are cleaning the florists' windows. Tracy is annoyed because the building work going on across the road is throwing up a whole lot of dirt. She shouts across to Gary and another workman that they should pay for the windows to be cleaned. Gary's mate grins and calls out that it's hard to concentrate with Rosie up the ladder to look at. Sally is walking round the corner at that point and hears it.

Steve is pressing the bell to Nick and Leanne's flat. Nick answers through the intercom and tells him to go away, he says that Leanne doesn't want to speak to him. Steve continues to plead, until Leanne herself comes out onto the balcony and tells him to be quiet, the baby is asleep. Michelle and Kate come past then, and Michelle is scathing about how Steve is begging in the Street, like Weatherfield's own Romeo and Juliet. "Pathetic!" she says as she walks off. Then Tracy comes along and tells Steve to go with her before he gets himself arrested.

Gemma calls on Chesney, and finds his living room scattered with Sinead's belongings. She tells him that as Sinead did the dirty on him, now it's his turn. She throws some of Sinead's things into a cardboard box and tells him to go with her.

Sally has gone to see the foreman of the worker men. She complains that one of his 'operatives' has been making sexist remarks to her daughter. The foreman says he'll have word, but that's not good enough for Sally and plays her 'councilor Metcalf' card. However, the foreman isn't impressed and fobs her off, calling her 'love' and 'sweetheart' and telling her that some of them have work to do, so she should let them get on with it. Sally frostily tells him he'll be hearing from her again soon.

Sarah and Gail are finishing the washing up. Sarah suggests that while she puts the kettle on, Gail goes to Roy's for a couple of custard tarts. Gail isn't keen, but Sarah tells her she can't avoid Shona for ever. Just then Bethany comes downstairs, she's off out and gets all 'stroppy teenager' when Sarah asks where she's going. It seems she's off to Nathan's to watch a film, but eventually promises to text Sarah later to let her know she's ok.

Sally arrives in front of the garage where the builders are working, with a megaphone. She starts talking through it very loudly, calling on the women of Weatherfield to stand up against blatant sexism. A crowd starts to gather. Gary goes over and asks her what she's playing at, so she tells him to ask his mate.

Chesney and Gemma come out of the kebab shop to listen, and then go back inside. On the door we see a hand-written sign offering second-hand goods for a quid each.

Gail goes into the cafe where Shona is rushed off her feet and working on her own. Gail takes off her coat, goes behind the counter and starts to help. Shona looks at her with surprise and suspicion.

Steve and Tracy are in the back room of the florist's. She gives him a pep talk, he shouldn't make a fool of himself in the street, but Oliver is his son, he's got rights. She tells him to get himself a decent solicitor and go to court if he has to. He'll regret it if he's not part of that child's life, and anyway, he's Amy's little brother.

Daniel and Sinead have arrived at Chesney's to collect her stuff, but Beth comes out and tells her it's gone. Just then they see Rita walking past wearing Sinead's woolly hat and carrying her scarf. She tells them that Chesney is selling stuff in the kebab shop. "I'll kill him!" says Daniel and heads over there.

Sinead and Beth are in the kebab shop, they can't believe what Chesney has done, and Sinead tells him that some of her things have sentimental value, and then realises that the brooch her nan gave her has gone. Daniel is furious and tells Chesney he's a nasty, spiteful little person. As he turns to walk away, Chesney pushes him hard against the door, so Daniel swings round and lands a punch on him. Then he follows Beth and Sinead out of the door. Chesney recovers himself and runs after them, grabbing Daniel in a rugby tackle and bringing him to the ground. Beth and Sinead rush over and pull Chesney off. Ken comes out of the cafe just in time to see all this.

Sally, meanwhile, is still shouting away on her megaphone, and, on seeing the tussle in the street claims it is yet another example of men behaving badly. Sophie and Rosie ask her to stop, they think she's made her point. Tim tells her she's made a right fool of herself, but just then Rita comes along and hears this. "No she's not," she says, "It's called making a stand." She takes the megaphone from Sally. "What do we want? Respect for women! When do we want it? We want it now!" she says.

Bethany is in the Bistro with Mel when Gail comes in for change for the cafe. She comes over and Bethany introduces her. When she's gone, Bethany asks Mel if she thinks Nathan likes her. Mel tells her that Nathan wouldn't sleep with someone he didn't care about, but warns her not to get pregnant and advises her to get an implant.

Daniel is back in the flat, holding an ice pack to his eye, while Ken berates him for fighting in the street. Sinead tells him it was Chesney who started it. Daniel points out that you have to stand up for what you believe in. "We can't all go running away when the going gets tough," he says, glaring at his father. Ken says he just wants what's best for him, he doesn't want Daniel making the same mistakes he did.

Over in the cafe, Shona is grateful to Gail for helping. Sarah comes in, wondering where Gail has got to, and is pleased to see them getting on.

Steve and Tracy are in the back room of the pub. Steve tells Liz he's going to tell Amy about being Oliver's father. Liz asks why 'that one' (meaning Tracy) has to be there while he does it. Tracy points out that she's Amy's mum, and what affects Amy will affect her. Just then Amy comes in so they sit her down and Steve tells her that he and Michelle have parted as he has done something she will never forgive him for. Then he goes on to say that he's Oliver's father. Amy takes a moment to digest this, and then she's angry. Liz tells her that her dad made a mistake. "There's no surprises there then, are there?" she snaps and marches out of the room.

Back at Daniel's flat, Sinead is convinced that Ken hates her. Daniel tells her he was just upset. She says that Ken doesn't want him being dragged down by someone like her. Daniel hands her a box, he wants to give her something to help her feel better about her nan's brooch. She opens it and there's a silver chain necklace with a blue stone on it. It was his mother's, but he wants her to have it. He puts it round her neck, as she asks if his mother won't mind. He says it's fine. Sinead says she would like to meet her one day, and hopefully she will like her more than Ken does.

Steve goes round to see Leanne and Nick. He tells them that he's going to see a solicitor and they'll get a letter in a few days. He's Oliver's dad, Amy is his sister and Liz is his grandmother, they want to be part of his life.

Anne Logan

It's breakfast time and Nick and Leanne talk about telling Simon, who is apparently awake but in a foul mood and now Leanne thinks she's found lipstick on his school shirt. They also talk about Steve. Nick accepts he's the biological father of the baby but points out he shouldn't expect parental rights from a one-night stand. Simon makes an appearance and Leanne tells him to come home for his lunch. She's got something to tell him.

Chesney's getting a good talking to from his big sister. Fiz points out that people break up all the time but they don't go attacking someone's new boyfriend. Nor do they sell the person's belongings. And who would sell the person's grandmother's brooch. Chesney's full of self pity. He'd even bought Sinead a voucher for a night away in the Lakes. "What have I got?" he asks. "you've got your health, a good job and a roof over your head," Fiz points out. Chesney changes tack and points out that Sinead was flaunting her new man. "This is no good, Chesney," says Fiz, "and deep down I think you know it."

Sally and Tim are in the cafe. Sal's taken the day off to continue her anti-builders' craic loud-hailing. She wants the young builder sacked. She tells Tim that most building firms have strict guidelines about sexual harassment these days.

At another table, Adam tells Ken he got his exam results and he's passed. Hah! Once he passes another in August he'll be able to practise. Ken points out that most solicitors' firms don't want someone who fraudulently gained the right to practise. Adam says they want someone who knows how to win. He asks Ken if he can borrow the car but Ken says Tracy has already nabbed it.

Leanne and Toyah want Peter to talk to Steve and tell him to back off.

Sarah asks Bethany what film she watched last night and nags her about it until Bethany admits she didn't watch a film. Sarah wants to meet Nathan but Bethany doesn't think it's a good idea. Bethany suddenly remembers she's left the bath running and dashes upstairs, leaving her phone on the table. Sarah grabs it, scrolls through the contacts and writes Nathan's number on her arm.

In the kebab shop, Sinead comes in to confront Chesney. She says she thought she knew him and Chesney assumes she's talking about him using violence. But no. She can't understand how he could sell of her personal belongings, especially her Nana's brooch, when he knew how much that meant to her. Gemma tries to defend Chesney but Sinead tells her to stay out of it. Chesney seems to be a bit contrite and tells Sinead there's something he'd like her to have.

Peter and Steve are in the pub. There's a nice little line running through this about the two of them ranking their friends. Steve tries to defend himself. Yes, he and Leanne and Nick had an agreement, but things changed. Specifically, he saw the baby and changed his mind. Peter points out that from Nick and Leanne's point of view, nothing has changed. He says Leanne and Nick are going to fight to the death and nobody holds a grudge like Nick Tilsley. Peter gives him a talking to about not being a part-time father like Peter was for Simon. When Peter's gone, Liz comes in a reminds Steve they have an appointment with a solicitor.

Before we go to the break, I'd like to point out that most of this episode is set against the background noise of Sally on the loud hailer out in the street.

Chesney has given Sinead the vouchers for the night away in the Lakes and she shows them to Daniel in the cafe. He's got an essay to write on Allen Ginsberg. . . well, to write on paper ABOUT Allen Ginsberg. And Sinead persuades him to use the vouchers tonight. What the hell, he can take him work with them.

Gary's at another table with the other two builders and they think it's highly amusing that he used to work in the cafe.

Rita tells Ken she's got better things to do than stand outside a building site yelling abuse at men. But she said she'd go so she will when Norris gets there. She's called him in off a day off to cover for her, but she's told Norris it's because she has a dental appointment. They talk about Daniel and Chesney's fight. Gemma breezes in and asks: "Hello, Kenny. How's Daniel's face?"

The machinists are in the office trying to get the booking form for the hotel to work. Fiz is really annoyed that Chesney's effectively paying for Sinead and her new boyfriend to have a night away. Beth points out that Sinead's put in the wrong date. It's not February 24, it's March 3. "Since when?" asks a horrified Sinead. She leaps to her feet just as Johnny comes in and demands to know what's going on. He orders them back to work but a clearly upset Sinead brushes past him saying she has to go home.

Leanne's told Simon about Steve being the baby's biological father. Simon isn't taking it well. "Why do you always lie to me?" he demands. Leanne tries to explain that they didn't tell him or anyone else because of Michelle losing her baby. She tells Simon that Steve won't get custody. No, but Amy's still the baby's big sister, and that's just weird, Simon says. He stomps off back to school.

The flower shop is over-stretched, so Tracy's brought in Adam for the afternoon. He'll be doing a few deliveries for them and helping out in the shop where he can. Mary gets all girly and giggly.

"Verbal abuse is sexual abuse. Wolves are predators. . ." Sally's in full cry. "Move along, Bethany," she broadcasts. Bethany gives her a scathing look. "could you not shout my name through that thing?" she asks. Tim comes out. "Cup of tea, gorgeous?" he asks. The building site gaffer breathes a sigh of relief that she's stopped loud hailing for a bit. Rita arrives and the builders think it's hysterical that Gary knows her, too. He identifies her as Rita from the paper shop.

As they work together in the pub, Toyah and Sarah talk about Bethany and Nathan. Toyah says Bethany is probably just too embarrassed to let her meet Nathan. "But I'm not am embarrassing Mum," Sarah says defensively. Toyah says ALL mothers are embarrassing. Sarah's already sent a text to Nathan inviting him round for his tea. "That sounds like something your mother would do," Toyah tells her.

Steve and Liz are in the back room of the Rovers, talking about the hoops Steve needs to jump through in order gain access to his child.

Ken tells Daniel what Gemma said about him. Daniel wants to borrow the car to take Sinead to the Lakes but Ken says Tracy has already taken it. He asks Daniel whether Sinead is really worth it. She perfectly pleasant but, let's face it, she's Daniel's intellectual inferior. Daniel's annoyed by this.

At the flower shop, Tracy takes a call from a Bridezilla demanding her flowers tonight instead of the morning. Adam might need to make a delivery.

Sinead appears back in the factory to some harsh words from Johnny and a lot of comment from the machinists. Johnny orders her back to work but she pleads to be allowed a quick word with Beth.

They hide themselves away between racks of finished clothing and Sinead explains what her problem is: "I'm pregnant."

Of course.

The end.
Margaret Carr

Good evening. When broadcast I was in Monmouthshire having a week's holiday in south-east Wales. Weather very mixed but some lovely scenery and a couple of train trips plus some excellent meals. Recommended for eating - Walnut Tree Inn, The Hardwick and James Sommerin in Penarth with an honourable mention to the Crown Inn at Pantygelli for a great Sunday lunch.

This is episode 9114. It was written by Simon Crowther and it was directed by John Anderson. Copyright remains the property of ITV to whom many thanks.

In the factory Sinead has revealed to Aunty Beth that she is pregnant and it can only be Daniel's. Yup the Barlow genes are at it again. Sinead has never been in this position. She wants Beth to tell her what to do! Sinead says Daniel is not much more than a school child! Beth had similar concerns with R'Craigy but he was the best thing which ever happened to her. Beth tells Sinead to have the weekend away and take some thinking time. It will all work out says Beth.

Leanne and Oliver visit Peter in his flat and want to know about Steve. Wisely Peter tells Leanne Steve's side - how determined he is. Then admits he tried - but cannot remember what was said. Peter denies he was walked all over. Peter was never keen on denying Steve access. Leanne calls Peter a walkover. Leanne says that was why their marriage did not work - Peter is spineless and Carla Connor of course! (Come back Carla and run the Rovers please!). Peter says Steve made some valid points. And Peter could not but agree with him. Then Peter says "I'm a lot of things, but I am not dishonest." Leanne (and I) dissolve into laughter, even Peter is forced to smile.

At the Rovers Sarah is talking to Rana and she does not know if they (Bethany and Nathan) are having sex. Rana is certain they are having sex (oh come on Sarah do you recall where Bethany came from, your online grooming etc - she is her mother's daughter after all). Rana is certain - they are not go to spend time together staring at a wall are they? Sarah needs to check Bethany is being careful and to check on Nathan. Sarah goes to make a call.

Ken is relaying his troubles to Brian. He feels Daniel should finish his essay and not spend the weekend away with Sinead. Ken reckons that Sinead is the real problem. (Sorry Ken the Barlow genes are inherited - just like the Platt genes (see above). Brian wisely points out that telling Daniel who he can / cannot see is not helping. Push the child away and it will one day never return. Ken reluctantly agrees.

And having listened to Brian, sorry Rana, Sarah is on her phobile to Nathan's voicemail inviting him round for his tea. (Sarah does not know he is about 35 and is a bit old for tea and cake!). And could he let her know if he is veggie or gluten or has allergies. (I think he has some pretty carnal instincts). She ends by hoping they are being careful!

Robert has been pressing Maria's buzzer (ooohh missus) for ten minutes and Michelle finally lets him in. She is wearing a beige shell suit and does not look happy. She offers him a cup of tea. He won't stay - he just popped into see if she was OK. She asks what is in the carrier bag - tequila and Scrabble. He is serious with extra points for dirty words. She wants to know how Steve could do it to her twice. Robert points out she is human and after all he went out with Tracy Barlow twice. He observes they are fools for love. She says she does not play board games. He tells her to ring him - but he is very busy. Just as he goes she says she does not know how to play Scrabble.

Peter has produced a brew which he gives Leanne. She observes that if Michelle had not miscarried this would not have happened. Reasonably Peter says it would all have come out at some point. He reminds her of their legal fight - only the legal people win. Peter says that Leanne should not give into Steve - the situation is far from ideal and could be a lot worse. So why shouldn't Steve have a relationship with his son? Peter asks how much of Leanne's stubbornness is to do with Nick's feelings. Leanne points out that she has one son (Simon) whose father is forever letting him down. Peter reasonably points out that Steve will not let his son down - and Peter regrets letting Simon down. Leanne says Nick has been a better dad to Simon than he has and will be better than Steve. Peter harshly reminds Leanne that she and Steve made Oliver.

Tracy and Mary have finished the Springer order. Adam offers to deliver it this evening - but will have to use Ken's car as he is not insured on the business van. Whilst Tracy is surprised she is grateful and goes to get the delivery address.

Sally and Rita are telling Gary they are going nowhere until things change. They want the lad fired and policies updated. Sally will not have her daughter abused on her own doorstep. Gary heard Rosie liked it. Brian arrives on his bike noting that the spirit of Greenham Common is alive and well. Rita tells Brian to give her his bicycle lock and she walks across and chains herself to the wire fencing around the building site. As she does this Rana, Yasmeen and Erica arrive. Rita snaps the lock shut (it is a combination lock). She explains what she has done to a builder wearing a white hat hard had. Brian has completely forgotten the combination. (FFS this is a building site - someone will have a huge pair of cutters).

In the flat above the Kabin Daniel is packing for the weekend away. He picks up Sinead's toiletry bag and inevitably finds the pregnancy tester. And reads the result. We will now take a break.

Back at the building site work has stopped for safety reasons. Sally grabs Rita's hand and the ladies plus Brian line up across the entrance to the site. Gemma joins the protest - she does not remember Rita telling her last night that they were running a protest today. Head honcho and Sally go to talk about the matter. He sacks the lad who was abusive on the spot. (Illegal but never mind). Brian still cannot remember the combination.

Robert and Michelle are playing Scrabble - he has managed the word "Bum". Michelle, nursing a glass of tequila, denies it is rude. She pours them each another shot. She chuckles, lays down a word on the board and even Robert agrees that it is rude. She is laughing fit to burst.

Daniel is still looking at the evidence of Sinead's interesting condition when she bustles in and says she still has to ring the hotel to confirm. He waves the pregnancy tester and being a soap she asks what it is. She was going to tell him - but she has only just found out herself and she is beside herself. She was going to tell him in front of the log fire at the hotel. She was going to talk to him about it. He does not understand why she would want to talk to him about going back to that Neanderthal, Chesney. She makes it clear that it is Daniel's baby. Daniel is stunned for the second time. To the surprise of viewers she offers Daniel a brew up! Tea always makes things better. And she is certain that Daniel is the baby's father. And she is as shocked as he is. Neither know what to do next.

In the cafe Brian, Sally, Yasmeen, Erica, Rita and Gemma are consuming warming cups of tea. Rita asks Gemma where she learnt to pick bicycle locks. You just sort of learn answers Gemma. Sally tells her that bicycle theft is a serious crime. Brian and Rita calm things down - all's well that ends well he observes.

Mel says Bethany will get used to her implant. Imagine what it would have been like in olden days Mel says. We have a lecture on other means of birth control. Bethany gets a text and Mel guesses it is from Nathan. She reckons that Nathan and Bethany are super cute. Bethany has a broad smile.

Back to Sinead (who could do with a caring Mel in her life) and Daniel. Can Daniel see himself walking a pram down the Street in 9 months' time? He observes prams are expensive. So are babies says Sinead, well babies are free - everything else costs a lot. She starts a list - clothes, nappies, cot. Daniel asks if she can see the two of them as parents. She can one day. Soon or in the distant future? prods Daniel. Does she see them together in 20 years? (Oh come on Daniel the Barlow genes will never permit that). She hopes so - otherwise what they even doing? Daniel pulls out his pen and decides they are going to make a list of pros and cons. Sinead wants to know why they are called pros and cons.

Adam is in Ken's car - his phone rings - it is Tracy. We see a Weatherfield Gazette - one again it looks like Ronan Truman has been cleared of drug offences. We then see Ronan Truman leave his house and drive away. See below for a spoiler explanation.

Bethany returns home and spots that Sarah is hiding something. Bethany keeps pressing. Sarah admits she thought Nathan would have phoned back by now. She explains she left a message after taking the number from Bethany's phone - but she has not read her text messages. Bethany reckons she will die of embarrassment and how did Sarah get into her phone? Sarah admits she works for MI5! Bethany is shocked. Sarah thinks she is sorry (she's not really).

The list is not going well - only the cons are coming. So they move onto the pros and find only more cons. They agree having a baby might be nice, but they would probably not have chosen to do it like this. Sinead is not as negative as Daniel who cannot be positive. They stare at each other.

Leanne is walking along the Street when Steve emerges from the Rovers. She tells him he has made her life stressful. he tells her he is not going to fight her on the beaches. He just wants a little part of it - a very, very little part. He does not want to undermine Nick or steal Oliver away from Leanne. Although Leanne cannot tell Nick, Steve thinks he will make a good dad. Steve suggests Leanne asks Amy for a reference. Leanne concedes that she knows Steve will not be a bad father. So Steve asks for access for a couple of hours each week, rather than wasting money on lawyers? Leanne concedes he might be right. Steve is surprised and wants to know she is not joking. No she is not joking - but she is tired and you can bet Nick will not see it the same way. She agrees to sort something out - but not now. Steve is allowed to give Oliver a kiss goodnight. As he quickly does so we move to see the scene from the flat above the salon and we see Michelle watching the two of them talking and Steve kissing Oliver. Robert is still with her and says watching it will tear her apart. Michelle threatens to tear Leanne apart. Michelle is angry that Leanne is walking away scot free. She gets to keep her baby. Michelle adds that she is going to get that bitch for this.

Roll credits.

As mentioned above some real echoes of the past tonight - like mother, like daughter, like father, like son. Kate Oates has hit real Street strengths at the moment. Beautiful juxtaposition of Platts and Barlows and bringing up offspring.

Spoiler explanation: As mentioned above there is something missing in clear story telling from the Adam storyline. It may be because of the hour of transmission and I am not sure if something has been lost on the cutting room floor but the story on Monday next week only makes sense if you reach the conclusions that Trina Robson - the legal secretary is actually Ronan Truman's girlfriend and that Adam visited her this evening. This was not clear at the time and I lost the plot on Monday. Certainly whilst I was aware Trina had a partner I was unaware that it was Truman.

Finally in the words of Mrs Dale I am still very worried about Emily Bishop or perhaps that should be Eileen Derbyshire.

See you next week.

Richard

Written by Perrie Balthazar Directed by Duncan foster

Morning on the Street has Ken looking rather grim as he sees the for sale sign up over the pub. Adam exits the corner shop with a bottle of milk. We get a quick view of the newspaper sign noting that it's the funeral of a teen who's had a drug overdose, shadowing things to come. Upstairs, Adam is in a chipper mood. Daniel is not and Sinead doesn't look much happier when she comes out into the room as well. Adam isn't planning to go in to work at the flower shop today. Adam seems to sense tension and takes off, leaving them to talk. They establish that they haven't changed their minds about their decision. She thinks she'll stay home, not having slept much.

Outside, Adam greets Rosie cheerfully but she's less than pleased to see him and Kevin gets the chance to throw aggressive words around, too, and compares Adam to his father, which, in Kevin's books, is not a good thing. Adam seems unruffled. He greets Todd with a smirk as well, assuring him that he's "going places" and Todd should have hitched his wagon to Adam's when he had the chance. Todd points out he won't get far with a rip in his coat.

Sally is practicing a speech to present to the builders. Sophie isn't overly impressed with her outfit, an ugly black jacket with a blue blouse sporting a big bow at the neck. Sally calls it a power suit, noting that women seem to have to dress that way when entering a "so called" man's world. Sophie doesn't think she should have to wear something ugly to be taken seriously. Indeed. Sally wants both Rosie and Sophie to come with her to show solidarity. She even offers to compensate them for the loss of pay for the time. Sophie makes a deal. They'll be there if she burns the Iron Lady dvd (she's had a fondness for comparing herself with Margaret Thatcher)

Toyah and Peter have come to see Leanne and the baby. Leanne looks rough after a no-sleep night with her newborn. Toyah offers her and Peter as babysitters so she can get some kip but Peter backs out. He is eschewing his day off to make some extra cash.

Adam stands across from the flower shop. Inside, Amy seems to want to see Michelle but Tracy doesn't think it's a good idea. She is taking Amy to the dentist herself. After they leave, Adam makes his way across to the shop where he proceeds to be smarmy and charming. What does he want? Well, when she goes to make tea, she finds there isn't any and when she goes back into the main area, he's gone.

We're in the cafe now. The little-seen Erica is at a table sharing a joke with Shona. Ken and Daniel are there as well at another table. Ken has come to apologize to Daniel who is trying to work on his laptop. Ken seems truly sorry and wants to make a fresh start with his son, to get by all the past that he missed. Daniel seems to agree but he doesn't look thrilled.

In the kebab shop, Gemma is gossiping with a punter while Cathy looks on trying to follow all the trendy slang flying about. It's interesting to note that Cathy has her hair in two ponytails just like Gemma's! Cathy is shocked to see the punter was wearing a nurse's outfit under her coat and suddenly feels very old. She misses the adult conversations in the caff. Gemma is incredulous. Chesney arrives and greets Gemma with a fancy handshake.

Sophie and Rosie come around the corner, heading home. Sophie's on the phone to her nagging mother while Rosie strolls along carrying the window washing bucket over her arm like it was a top end designer bag! Rosie strips out of her coveralls on the side of the road. Sophie is sent inside to change. Ken happens by as does Kevin. Ken wishes Sally good luck on her meeting but Kevin then gives him an earful about a law-breaking grandson who doesn't respect women. Ken, of course, has no idea what he's on about. Ken then looks around him confused. Where's my car? (Where indeed. Seeing as we've never seen a car parked outside his house, that's a good question)

His car, it would seem, must be the one Adam is driving. He stops outside a large house that looks very much like the one that was used for Phelan's house back when he was first on the show with his then-wife. Adam gets out and crosses the road to the house and knocks on the door. The receptionist to that solicitor, Trina, comes out and she's shocked and dismayed to see Adam, thinking he's tracked her down. He hasn't, he's there for Ronan, the drug dealing client. It turns out, Ronan's her boyfriend! And it turns out the police have been questioning Ronan in relation to the teen that died of an overdose. Ronan comes out to the door just then and ask what he wants.

Back at Preston's Petals, Tracy is castigating Mary for allowing Adam to steal 100 quid out of the till while her back was turned. Ken comes in to see if Tracy had taken the car and is told that it's very likely Adam was the one that took it.

Adam is making a business proposition with Ronan. After building a lie about having known Trina's brother, he continues, while keeping an eye on a cctv camera on the corner of the house. They head indoors.

Sally, the girls, Rita and Erica have all met up at the cafe, Mary being the only one of the committee missing. They approach the foreman who is not happy to see a "mob" and his boss won't be, either. A woman approaches at that moment. This is Rachel, Sally's friend from the cancer support group who also happens to be a reporter. He tells Sally she alone can come into talk to the owner. The rest have to retreat to the cafe.

Adam and Ronan have made a plan for Adam to meet somewhere at 4:30.

Peter drops Chloe off at home. She invites him in for a drink. He can't be tempted. She pays him 60 pounds, reluctant to release the cash as she stares into his eyes, silently reiterating the invitation. He still says no and when she gets out of the car, he starts to pull away, watching her in the rear view mirror and looking very much like he would prefer to turn the car around.

Chesney sees Sinead come out of the flat and asks her if the spa was ok. She admits they didn't go and gets angry at him, apologizing for hurting him, wasting his money and promising to pay him back. All this is overheard by Rana who's standing by the shop reading the newspaper. She turns her back and stalks to the door of the flat, closing it in his face as he shouts at her for making him the bad guy.

Amy walks by as this is happening. She's trying to leave a message for Michelle. Michelle hasn't replied to any attempts at communication, apparently. Poor kid.

Daniel is in the health centre and he's looking at leaflets about pregnancy when Rana comes back to work. She asks if he's ok but he says he's not here for himself. She assumes it's about Sinead and tells him she's just seen her and she's quite upset. He's uncomfortable when she offers to listen if he wants to talk. It'll be completely confidential, she promises. He looks as if he needs to talk to someone.

Cathy has made some pretty tomato roses. Gemma wants Cathy to go on an night out with her. She tempts her by offering to listen to radio plays or eat crustless quiche. Cathy bends and agrees, much against her better judgement, I think.

Sally's supporters wait in the cafe and chat to Shona about fighting for things you believe in. Erica mentions she protested the war, which Rosie surmises was the Viet Nam war. (I'm not sure if Erica's war would be the Falklands or one of the Gulf wars) The photographer arrives. The reporter, Rachel, is fed up with wasting time but the photographer recognizes Rosie. He went to school with her and lists some of Rosie's escapades including the affair with John Stape who kidnapped her. And she's councilor Metcalf's daughter. That interests Rachel.

Tracy and Ken can't find Adam. Amy gets short shrift for interrupting. Tracy sends Ken to his doctor's appointment and Amy slopes off to the shop just as Adam pulls up. Tracy shouts at him for the money he stole. He asks her to keep her father sweet for a few hours and when he comes back later, she can have her money back with interest. She perks up at that, especially when he says the interest will three times what he took. That's all right, then.

He sees Todd again. Todd notices that Adam is sporting a new coat (which doesn't look a lot different from the old one as it's the same colour, just a closer fit). Todd says he hopes Adam isn't getting his hands dirty with drugs then he's making a big mistake. Adam is cocky but sees the sign about the funeral again and there's a flicker across his face.

Rana and Daniel have been talking about having a termination. Even though it was what they both agreed, Rana wonders if sometimes people say what they think the other one wants to hear because they care about them a lot. She asks him to be sure that's what Sinead really wants. He admits he thinks she does want the baby. She advises him not to be so hard on himself, they just need a bit more time. As he comes out of the small room where they were talking, he runs into Ken.

Adam gets into Ken's car and is followed and joined by Amy. He's not happy to see her and she's upset because yet another person doesn't want her around. He shouts at her to get out of the car, noting that he's only got 25 minutes to get to his appointment. But she's upset and crying. What's he going to do? You'll have to wait for the next part to find out.

Tvor

Written by Debbie Oates and directed by Duncan Foster

Adam is getting desperate. Time is ticking away and Amy refuses to get out of the car. He asks if there's a friend he can take her to. Amy says there is someone, actually. Adam has no choice but to take her and hope he gets to his rendezvous on time.

Across the road, Daniel is coming out of the medical centre with Ken who asks why Daniel was there. He makes out he's had a problem sleeping. Ken is sure he knows the cause – Adam. As a matter of fact, says Daniel, he hasn't paid the rent. Ken's furious as he gave the money to Adam. He decides to call a family meeting and tells Daniel to come straight over to his house and, in the meantime, he'll ring Adam.

Meanwhile in the cafe everyone's discussing the value of protests throughout history when a triumphant Sally comes in, clutching a signed copy of her Considerate Constructors agreement. Erica proposes that they all go on a march over to the Rovers to celebrate. Sally wonders where Rosie's got to.

If Sally could see where her elder daughter was right now she wouldn't be celebrating. The journalist and photographer are plying her with cocktails in the Bistro while Rosie spills the beans on her modeling career, starting with the part she played in the "Pop My Cherry" campaign. As she records Rosie's replies the journalist deliberately twists her words.

Having followed Amy's directions, Adam arrives at the graveyard. It turns out Amy wanted to visit grandma Deirdre's grave. Adam is really anxious about the time. Amy angrily tells him that no one ever has time for her. She gets out of the car and tells him to go if he's too busy. A call comes through on Adam's phone. It's from Ronan. In an agony of indecision Adam cancels the call then runs after Amy. We see a hearse draw into the car park. It's carrying the coffin of Zoe, the teenager who died from a drug overdose.

On the street, Peter finally returns to the cab office. Tim says he thought Peter was worried Chloe was a number 8 on the bunny boiler scale. "Yeah, but she's a 9 on tips," replies Peter showing Tim a pile of notes. Peter insists he's not going to take any more jobs for her but clearly the cash is too tempting to turn down.

Chesney is cleaning the kebab shop windows when Sinead comes past and asks him to lend her some soap and water to wash out her mouth. She wants to apologise and says she's sorry for being a moody cow. Ches accepts her apology and asks if she and Daniel have problems. Now it's his turn to apologise. Whatever's on her mind says Ches, she can always talk to him. She may not feel able to share her worries but at least they're on talking terms again.

A furious Ken is on the phone trying to get hold of Adam when Daniel turns up. He tells Daniel that he'll get this family sorted out if it's the last thing he does and he wants Adam to pull himself together and start thinking of people other than himself.

Meanwhile in the graveyard Adam is talking to Amy next to Deirdre's grave whilst casting glances at Zoe's funeral which is taking place a few rows across. He ignores a call from Ken. Adam suggests Amy might find it helps to talk to Deirdre although he admits he never talks to his dead father. Amy shares her frustrations about her own father and his latest mistake that she's supposed to call her brother. Suddenly she asks if she can go and live with Adam as he's the only one who's taking any notice of her. He tells her that he's not that great but as far as Amy's now concerned. Adam's a good person, just like Deirdre was. She says sorry if she made him late for something and she'll get the bus home. Adam looks across at Zoe's grieving parents and has a sudden change of heart. He runs across to Amy and says his appointment wasn't important and he'll drive her home.

In the Rovers Sally and her supporters are celebrating their victory. Sally asks Steve for the WiFi code so she can check the story in the Gazette on her laptop. Everyone's faces drop as they read the headline: Who's Shaming Who? The accompanying photos are of Rosie in her modeling days alongside one of Sally with her loud hailer.

Round at number 1 Ken is waiting with Peter and Daniel for Adam to show up. Peter tells Ken that Adam is a lost cause. He says he's not interested in being responsible – after all, he's a Barlow and Barlows leg it at the first sign of trouble. "Shut up!" cries Daniel in a sudden outburst. He says that people should just do what they think is right and with that he picks up his coat and walks out. Ken and Peter exchange concerned glances.

Adam arrives back with Amy who gets out the car, all smiles. The moment she's gone he checks the drugs that are still hidden in the glove box then makes a call. He leaves a message with Ronan. He tells him the drop's off. He says he should forget it and forget him. Adam then drives away.

Across the street Peter finds Daniel sitting on the bench. He starts to talk to him about Adam and tells Daniel how he feels a certain responsibility for him. He explains how Adam's mum was his twin and he should have been there for him when she died. He adds how he's always been good at avoiding difficult situations and says he should have put his family first but he didn't and now he has regrets. Daniel is clearly thinking that this applies to himself right now. Peter says you can't turn back the clock and then gives Daniel's shoulder an affectionate squeeze.

Meanwhile Sophie has caught up with her sister and is giving her a hard time about the interview. As she reads out quotes from the article, Rosie insists they've twisted everything she said.

It's now dark and Adam finally arrives back home. Ken watches as he drives up Adam barely has time to get out of the car before Ken starts laying into him about everything he's done or rather, hasn't. They have a slanging match which ends in Adam getting back into the car and driving off.

In the Rovers Cathy and Gemma are ordering Depth Chargers, despite the fact that they are already several sheets to the wind. Sophie comes in to speak to Sally, Rita and Erica. She tells her mother how Rosie has been manipulated by the journalist who deliberately quoted her out of context.

Adam arrives at the drop-off point where he's met by Ronan and Trina. He hands over the drugs to Ronan who takes them off to his car. Adam asks Trina what she sees in Ronan and they have a brief, flirty conversation before Ronan returns with a large bag of cash. Adam gets into the car and then Ronan grabs Trina's face aggressively and demands to know what Adam is to her. She claims she doesn't know what he means. Ronan says they either have some sort of deal going or they have history. Adam watches the exchange before driving off.

Daniel returns home to talk to Sinead. She's under the impression they've made their decision to go through with the abortion but Daniel asks what if they've got it wrong? He's been thinking things through and believes they can make a go of it. He tells Sinead he thinks they should have the baby.

Gemma and Cathy have moved on to the kebab shop but, looking at the state of Cathy, Ches doesn't think she should be eating anything. Cathy agrees with him. Roy and Brian come along the street but the timing is rather unfortunate because the subject of the conversation is enough to tip Cathy over the edge and, to her utter mortification, she deposits the result of her evening's drinking all over Brian's shoes.

Along the street we see a car draw up to the kerb. The driver is Ronan who stops, looks up and watches someone, presumably Adam, drawing the bedroom curtains.

Karen

It's morning in Adam and Daniel's flat. Daniel is tetchy because Adam is eating one of the bagels he bought for Sinead. Adam tells him he's paid the rent, and throws a hundred pounds down on the kitchen worktop, telling him to fill the fridge. As Sinead goes off to work, Daniel asks her what she's thinking, and tells her that if she wants to go ahead with an abortion, the decision is hers. "So it's all on me, is it?" she snaps. He tells her he just wants them to understand each other. "Forget work," he begs, but Sinead won't turn her back on their only income.

Toyah tells Peter she's reconnected with her IVF group. She's glad for the other people who are now pregnant, but hopes there's luck out there for her, too. She says she enjoyed looking after Oliver yesterday.

Sally and Rosie are walking down the Street. Rosie is upset because she fell for the reporter's tricks.

Ken is furious to find, when he comes to take Amy to school, that Adam has gone off with the car key. Amy remarks that Ken doesn't seem to like Adam, and Ken tells her that he's sick of Adam doing exactly what he wants. Amy tells him that yesterday Adam did what she wanted, he took her to the graveyard to see Grandma Deirdre. She says that no one else would take any notice of her. "So be nicer to him," she tells Ken, as she marches off to the bus stop.

Daniel is being interviewed by Robert in the bistro. Looking at Daniel's CV, Robert remarks that he's got no experience at all. Daniel admits he hasn't, but points out that they're practically related, what with his sister being Robert's ex.

Over at the bistro, Kathy is feeling mortified over her behaviour and wonders what Brian must think of her. Gemma points out that she seems more worried about what Brian thinks than Roy. Kathy reminds her that it wasn't Roy's shoes that bore the brunt. Then she tells Gemma that she's glad she's going to Scotland.

Beth asks Sinead if she's made a decision about the baby. Sinead tells her they decided it's not the right time, but now Daniel has changed his mind and now she doesn't know what to do. Beth asks her if they can have a chat after work.

Tracy is in the Rovers talking to Liz when Adam comes in and gives her back the money he took from the till, plus more. Just then Ronan comes out of the toilet and Tracy is surprised to learn that he knows Adam. He says he was just on his way to see him, and they go off to sit down together, but Adam doesn't look happy.

Tim goes into the cafe and sees Peter in there. He tells him that Chloe was looking for him, but he told her Peter had a day off. Peter immediately pulls out his phone and rings her, much to Tim's surprise. As Peter goes out of the cafe, Sally comes in. She's pleased that the Gazette has published her statement expressing her outrage at the way Rosie was treated, and dismissivness that the journalist isn't worth listening to.

Back in the pub, Ronan is demanding Adam gives him the money back. Adam tells him he's spent it. Ronan tells him to find it, and makes thinly veiled threats towards Tracy and Amy, and then leaves.

Peter is at Chloe's house, fiddling with the leads behind her tv. Just then his phone rings, it's Toyah, but he won't answer it, telling Chloe it's not important, it never is.

Adam comes out of the pub and is horrified to find Ronan talking to Amy outside the Kabin. He rushes over, and demands to know why she's not at school. She tells him it's dinnertime, and Ronan offers her a lift. When she goes off into the shop to get her sweets, Adam wants to know what he's playing. He smirks and says she should be advised not to get into people's cars. Adam then tells him he can have the money, but he doesn't have it all, he's spent some. Ronan still wants every penny back, and tells Adam he's got till evening. "And don't make me chase you," he says, getting into his car, "she's a bonny little kid, isn't she."

Sinead arrives home to and Daniel tells her he's got a job at the bistro. Just then Adam storms in, goes into his room and then comes out again, demanding to know where his money is, but he's not talking about the money he gave Daniel earlier, he's talking about the bag full of cash that was in his wardrobe, it's gone. Daniel tells him that neither he nor Sinead have been in his room, but Ken has, he went in there earlier looking for his car key. "You idiot!" shouts Adam, and storms out again. Daniel is very upset and stressed by this, and it's not long before he and Sinead are shouting at each other. She says she's not sure any of it can work, and picks up her bag and coat. "Leave me alone!" she yells as she runs out of the door.

Adam bursts into Ken's house, shouting for Ken. Tracy is in the living room and tells him that Ken said something about a hardware shop before he went out.

Peter is now back in Coronation Street and he and Toyah are in the pub as Liz shows some potential buyers around. Toyah is all smiles and full of the news that Toby is going to give her some equity from the house – 25 thousand pounds. She tells him that not only will it cover the IVF but it draws a line under her and Toby.

Sinead is talking to Beth in the pub, she's worried that she and Daniel haven't known each other long, the baby has come along too soon. Beth tells her to go ahead with the abortion then, but Sinead isn't sure, the baby exists now, it's a person – but this isn't the right time. Beth asks her what the right time would look like. Sinead says they would know each other really well, know that they were together forever and have enough money and enough space. Beth points out that if everyone waited for those conditions, the world would be empty. Sinead tells her she's scared she's going to get it wrong. Beth reckons that Sinead knows deep down what she wants.

Norris has been online, following the comments that have appeared since Sally's statement, and they're not good. He starts talking to Roy about it, and Rosie overhears, she's upset and rushes home to read them for herself. "This is all my fault!" she says.

Sinead goes into the bistro where Daniel is working. She goes up to him and tells him she thinks she agrees. Daniel takes a break and sits down with her. She tells him she feels she's known him for months, not weeks, and she feels she can trust him. Doubt crosses his face and he tells her, very seriously that there's a lot she doesn't know about him. She gets worried then and asks what it is.

Adam bursts into Ken's living room where he's listening to classical music. He demands to know where his money is. Ken wants to know where Adam got it from, but Adam just keeps shouting and asking where it is. Ken picks up phone, saying if he won't tell him where he got it, he'll get the police to ask him. Adam then confesses that he found some drugs and sold them to a dealer. He tells Ken it was a one-off but it's gone wrong and he has to pay him back, or they are all in a lot of danger. "Now, unless you want things to become a hell of a lot worse, you'll give me my money back!" snarls Adam. Just then, his phone rings, it's Ronan. Adam tells him he lost track of time, but he's on it.

Back in the bistro, Sinead asks Daniel why he didn't report his mum missing straight away. Daniel tells her he was a kid, and was scared his mum would be in trouble, or he'd get taken into care. She is impressed that he brought himself up, didn't starve and he went to uni. He's been abandoned by everyone, but he still wants the baby even though he could run for the hills. He tells her he believes they can do it, - properly. She agrees, she thinks maybe they can, he's delighted and they hug.

In the back yard of the Barlow household, Ken is throwing wads of ten and twenty pound notes into an incinerator and they're going up in flames. Adam comes out and tries to stop him, but it's too late. "You have no idea what you've done!" screams Adam, "no idea!"

Anne Logan

Hello,

We begin with Ken looking at a photo album that belonged to Susan, and remembering what a nice child Adam was. Though Tracy would rather concentrate on what a horrible thieving so and so he is now. Ken points out that there are other things to worry about rather than Tracy's money but when she asked what else Adam's done, Ken refuses to discuss it.

Adam, meanwhile is woken from dossing down somewhere by a phone call from Ronan, which he doesn't answer. We see Ronan in the street leaving a message saying Adam can't hide from him. "I'm coming for you."

Toyah's very cheerful and planning to call the IVF clinic today. Peter loves seeing her this happy and he's even stopped smoking to help their chances of conception.

Things are tense at the Platts' house. Bethany is wound very tight and snaps at Sarah. Sarah knows the cause is the message she left on Nathan's phone but she explains she just wanted to meet him and check him out. "Yeah, 'cause you're so good at sussing people out, aren't you? Callum!" She flounces out and Sarah tells Gary she was just the same when she was Bethany's age.

Nick's taken the baby to some lads and dads even (yes, really) so Leanne and Toyah have some sister time. Leanne's glad Nick's busy because she wants to see Steve to talk about access and she hasn't told Nick.

Adam's woken up in the back of the flower shop, which Mary realises and is discreet enough not to be shocked. Though she does tell him, "If you come near this till I'll get you in a headlock!" He tells her he slept on the floor because Daniel accidentally locked him out. While Mary gives him a talking to about taking care of his back, he peeks out and sees Ronan is still in the area. Eventually he thinks the coast is clear and goes out.

It's Sinead's birthday. Daniel's made her breakfast and says he might have to go and ask Robert for an advance on his wages because they're skint. Sinead's going to the health centre to register with the midwife. Daniel actually seems quite excited about it all and asks if he can come.

Bethany's at Nathan's and challenges him because she thinks he's being weird. He says he doesn't want to meet her mum because he's a coward. She's sure to ask what a 35-year-old man is doing with a 16-year-old kid. Bethany says that's her mum's problem, not theirs. Nathan tells her that their relationship is seen as socially unacceptable but says he loves that she knows her own mind.

Mary's told Tracy about Adam. They see a woman taking pictures of the shop - she tells them she's an estate agent and the owner is selling. Yes, Mr Peter Barlow has instructed them and wants a quick sale. Tracy? Angry? What do you think?

Toyah tells Leanne she's getting 25,000 pounds as her share of the house so it's all systems go for the IVF. Leanne urges her to wait, telling her they both know what Peter's like under pressure. Toyah's upset and accuses Leanne of telling her to give up her dream of having a child. She storms out.

Tracy rages at Peter but he says the agent wasn't supposed to put the For Sale sign up until tomorrow. He says he and Toyah are going to put their money together and buy a business. Then they'll have an income that means they can afford all the IVF they want. Ken comes in and Peter urges Tracy not to tell him. She won't shut up, though. Ken asks what business he'd buy. "I hope it's not another bookies." It's not. Peter wants to buy the Rovers.

[A short intermission while Ken attempts to get his mouth closed]

Daniel and Sinead discuss ways of saving money. He'd like them to announce the pregnancy to everyone but Sinead says they should wait until the first scan. Also, she wants to tell Chesney before they go public. Daniel picks up the post. There's a letter from Oxford University, which he hides.

Peter, Ken and Tracy argue. Peter says he's spoken to his sponsor about the pub plan and he's happy with it. Ken reminds him of what happened when he and Leanne bought The Joinery. Mary rings Tracy. There's been an order for flowers but the man who ordered them insists Tracy be the one to deliver them. She leaves. Peter tries to convince Ken that the pub plan is a good one but Ken tells him that if he and Toyah do have children he'd likely be consigning them to a life of hell with Peter drinking again. And what does Toyah think of this. Peter admits he hasn't told her. Ken grabs his coat.

Next door, he arrives in the Rovers to see Toyah and Peter tries to stop him revealing all. When Toyah hears what the plan is she walks straight out the back. Leanne warns Peter not to go after her.

Sarah talks to Adam about what she can get Gary for his birthday. Adam offers to sell his watch. It's worth four thousand pounds but he'd sell it to her for 500. Mary comes in and mentions she's been speaking to Adam's friend, Ronan Truman. He's ordered some flowers and Tracy's taking them round there now.

In the back yard, Peter and Toyah argue. He tells her he can deal with temptation. She tells him he's in most danger when he gets complacent. He tells her he wants to be able to make her and their child happy and give them financial security. He says his sponsor is behind him 100 per cent. He wishes Toyah was behind him, too.

Bethany and Sarah argue. "I know what I'm doing, Mum." Sarah tells her the story of when she thought she knew what she was doing and got involved with Gary Adams. "I put myself in a really vulnerable position and could have ended up dead."

Peter's out in the taxi with a bottle of wine on the seat. He stops outside a house and goes in - he tells Chloe he doesn't have an excuse for being there. He just wanted to see her. She invites him in.

Tracy is wandering around outside a large house where nobody is answering the doorbell.

The end, for now.
Margaret Carr

Good evening. I am back from far flung Wales and I can carry on where I left off last week - centre stage Barlows is working for me as Ken has managed to fall out with Daniel, Adam and Peter this week - Tracy missed out for once. Nice to share the blame around Ken - have you ever looked in the mirror for the cause?

Anyway over to that mean Street in Weatherfield. This is episode 9119. It was written by Julie Jones and directed by Duncan Foster. The copyright remains the property of ITV to whom many thanks.

Chloe seems to have a rather large house which appears in the opening shot. Inside Peter is drinking a brew whilst she tucks into the red wine (alert, alert - this usually signifies impending hanky panky). Peter denies he will be tempted by the aroma - he can cope with that. He tells her to enjoy herself. She thinks it is amazing that Peter has managed to knock drinking on the head. Peter is keen to live the rest of his life to the full. He reveals he is thinking of buying his local pub. She provides enthusiastic support (the complete opposite of Ken, Tracy and R'Toyota earlier). Chloe can see him charming the customers and moves closer to him. Peter has wanted someone to express some enthusiasm. She does not have an ounce of doubt that he can do it. Toyah did come round when he revealed that his sponsor Howard supported it. Chloe says in which case he will have no problem. Except that Peter lied (he has not spoken to his sponsor).

Tracy arrives outside Ronan Truman's expensive gaff with a bunch of flowers. He answers the door eventually. She spots that he is Adam's "mate". He tells her to keep the flowers. No refund she says - he says that is not a problem. Tracy reckons he only ordered them because he wanted to see her again! He slams the door in her face. Ronan walks inside - we see Adam slumped on the floor. Adam admits he does not have the money. Truman does not believe that it has been burnt. Truman tells him it was good of him to get there before his mad aunty and save her. Who is going to save Adam? Truman starts beating Adam up.

In the Rovers the birthday party are opening what looks like a pizza but is made of chocolate. A speciality of Kirk - one thing that looks like something else. Alcohol arrives. Beth artfully relieves Sinead's drink. Sinead just remarks that she does not want to get smashed in front of Daniel; Beth agrees that he needs time to be properly hooked before she starts disco dancing. Ken arrives in the Rovers. He gives Daniel a card for Sinead. Ken apologises to Daniel - he is aware of the big world out there which Daniel should investigate. Ken is proud of Daniel and knows he will not let him down. As Ken turns away Daniel is downcast.

Along at the Platts Sarah is retelling the internet grooming story from her younger days to Bethany. She admits going to his house. Bethany says she would never do that (of course she has already done it and gone further than Sarah ever went ...). Instead of a 19 year old lad Sarah was greeted by someone much older who tried to convince her all was OK. Sarah now realises he was manipulative. (Please wake up Bethany). Then Sarah was locked into a bedroom and her host went ballistic. She managed to get away - but that is why she worries for Bethany. People can be devious and horrible and lie because they want something. Bethany responds that Nathan is kind and supportive. Sarah says she just wants to meet Nathan and put her mind at rest. We can see Bethany's mind turning things over.

Aidan buys the birthday group a round of drinks. He notes Sinead's recovery from illness - but she was on holiday today. Craig has seen her being sick.

At the bar Toyah is telling Ken that Peter is simply trying to make her happy. She thinks if they are careful they can make it work. Toyah has faith in Peter - Ken should try it sometime. Tracy comes in complaining about being evicted from the shop by Peter. Toyah has no idea what planet Tracy is on. Tracy explains that Peter is selling the florist to provide the money to buy the Rovers, so Toyah can bang out as many babies as she likes. Toyah goes out to call Peter.

At Chloe's Peter with his around the back of the sofa behind her rejects the call. Chloe asks Peter if he will tell the truth - the sponsor was in fact against the whole idea. Peter admits it was a stupid lie. They are slowly getting very close to each other as they talk around the problem. They look like they are about to kiss when Chloe stands saying she needs a top up (of alcohol). Peter will have a coffee. Peter has a text message - "Sorry. I love you" from Toyah. Out of sight Chloe tops up her wine glass, then undoes a couple of buttons on her blouse. Meanwhile Peter phones R'Toyota and she tells him that she loves that he is making plans for their future. No-one has ever made her as happy as Peter does. She tells him to come home. He replies that he is on his way. Chloe has found her perfume and applies some judicious squirts. She tells Peter the coffee is on its way. She tries to get close but Peter says that work has called and he has to go. He thanks Chloe for everything and tells her to look after herself. Her face is showing a lot of pain. He is gone before she realises that he has left his phone behind.

Ken and Tracy enter number one with the latter making it clear that he is not keen on buying the Rovers. Tracy does not know how Ken will be able to sleep at night. He worries about all of them. The landline rings and Ken answers it, closing the door so Tracy cannot hear. Ken confirms that Adam is his grandson. He asks them to repeat what they said. And he looks very worried.

Nathan and Bethany are in bed. He has his eyes closed and is not really listening as wide awake Bethany says that her mother opened up to her earlier and how lucky she is in meeting Nathan. Sarah went through some rough stuff which is why she snoops on Bethany. An older bloke tried to abuse Sarah, Bethany reveals. Nathan says that would mess you up. Nathan agrees that would make Sarah paranoid. Nathan suggests that perhaps he and Sarah should meet, so that if they meet Sarah will see he is not a monster and they can spend more time together. Bethany is pleased and thanks him, then snuggles up to him.

Ken arrives in the A&E dept. We see him talking to someone dressed in civvies so not obviously medical staff. Ken enters Adam's cubicle - he has his head in one of the restraining units so that it cannot move. Ken says "Oh, Adam!" and shakes his head.

After the break Ken is asking Adam who did it and is it connected to the drugs? Adam says that he did say something like this would happen and Ken would not listen. Ken says Adam wanted something for nothing - an easy life. Adam says his life has been difficult - it took him years to get over his mother's death. Ken says he was so like his mother - charming with the same enquiring mind, dogged determination. Ken always had high hopes for Adam. Adam answers that he has lost his way and asks for help.

Sinead has opened Ken's card - it contains a £10 note. That will be the next round then. Apparently Maria is out tomorrow with a tag (she was sentenced to 12 months so has to serve 6 months before being released on licence according to the website I checked). They speculate on what she might do. Craig wonders if prison will have changed her - but it seems not.

Daniel is at the bar re-reading a letter from the University of Oxford. Pausing play to read it we found he has been offered a place and needs to make contact in the near future to pursue it. He orders a couple of pints from Liz and folds the letter away. He tells Sinead it is nothing - just junk mail (so why does he put it carefully back in his pocket?).

Adam is telling Ken that his life has not always been a mess. Ken recalls one of the partners telling him that Adam was destined for great things when he was staying in Canada. Adam wanted to make his name, doing whatever it took. But Adam founded he needed help to stay alert. The doctor prescribed some pills but they had side effects. And the blackouts - which led to Ken going to Canada. Ken recalls looking after Adam for months; by then Adam admits he was dependent on the pills. Ken raises his eyes to heaven and notes that addiction has been a blight on this family. Adam then entered a spiral of decline and was soon out on his ear. No job, no money, reputation in bits. So he returned for a fresh start. And now notes Ken he is a hospital bed. Adam took the beating as the only way out. Amy and Tracy had been threatened so he took it to save the family. [I thought Ronan might return for the money - but in reality the beating is for Adam sleeping with Trina and NOT for not repaying the cash - remember?]. A nurse arrives to take Adam down for a scan. Adam asks Ken for forgiveness. Ken sits down to think things through.

Peter returns to his flat. Toyah appears and apologises - but Peter blames Ken. Toyah says she should not have listened to Ken. She refers to Howard's opinion - he is the expert - as being more important. Toyah has spoken to Liz and she would sell to them. R'Toyota does have faith in Peter she tells him. He would never do anything to harm her or their kids. They tell each other they love each other. She offers him an early night - but as he takes his coat off he realises he has left his phone behind at the service station. He says he had better get it and won't be long.

Bethany is telling Sarah that Nathan is looking forward to meeting her. She tells Nathan and Mel that Sarah was pleased to hear that she was going to meet Nathan. Bethany issues a warning over Sarah's cooking. She then goes to the toilet. Mel is surprised that Nathan is playing happy families. Nathan points out that Sarah cares for Bethany which is more than can be said for Mel's mother. He asks her what that says about Mel herself - not even her mum could love her? But it is OK now that Nathan has saved her. He asks her to be grateful for being saved. She says she is very grateful. Nathan likes grateful - he says in a nasty way. He is much nicer to Bethany as she returns. Nathan is looking forward to meeting Sarah because if she is like Bethany they are going to get on great. Mel smiles at the both.

Peter knocks on Chloe's door. She starts off being pleased to see him - but then it becomes clear he only came to collect the phobile moan. He thanks her for tonight - her support meant a lot, he will see her again soon. He lets himself out. She merely nods and says "See you." Once he is outside she picks up her tablet which shows a local map and a flashing symbol indicating where Peter's phone is driving away, as well as her own location. She smiles.

Back at the hospital Adam has had the head brace removed and is sitting up - looking much the worse for wear. Ken tells Adam that he does not want the latter in his home, because of the risks to Amy and Tracy. Adam has made a mistake and paid his debt. Ken calls him a chancer like his father. Adam asks if deep down Ken hates him. Ken denies it. Adam knows Ken wants him to fail because he is Mike Baldwin's son. Mike took Ken's wife, Ken's daughter and he despised the man and the blood running through Adam's veins. Ken cannot let him put the rest of the Barlow family at risk. Ken puts a bag of Adam's clothes on the bed. He will send the rest on. Ken has put some money in an envelope as he knows Adam is skint. There is enough for a flight back to Canada. Adam asks Ken not to abandon him. Ken is sorry - but he has to do this. Ken walks away and we see Adam and his battered and bruised face. Then we see Ken pondering this mess as he walks along the corridor. A final shot of each party before -

Roll credits.

Ronan Truman's beating was a bit soft if Adam is already ready to leave hospital.
Why is Mel still helping Nathan? Bethany has clearly replaced her and he is not nice to her. This remains unbelievable to me.
And on what basis is Maria being released so early? Prisoners should do their time.
Finally in the words of Mrs Dale I am still very worried about Emily Bishop or perhaps that should be Eileen Derbyshire.

See you next week.
Richard

Written by Susan Outdot Directed by Abe Juckes

Nathan has been invited for tea and Sarah is worried about what to make for him because he's not replied to any of her texts in inquiry. Bethany finishes her homework at the last minute and rushes out the door to find Mel waiting for her. Turns out Nathan has been questioned yet again on an assault which, of course, (or so the story goes) he didn't do but he hasn't got an alibi. Mel suggests Bethany give him one because she can't, but Bethany's not keen on lying to the police.

Later, Sarah is still grilling Bethany on what to make for tea and isn't happy to hear Nathan might not be able to come after all. She goes off on one which only riles Bethany's temper. Sarah believes Nathan should want to meet her and if he doesn't, why doesn't he? Bethany flies back out the door, ostensibly to go back to school. But where she goes is to the tanning salon and tells Mel she's going to go to the police and gets an address from her.

When Bethany gets to the police station, she's so nervous she's practically vibrating as she is interviewed. It's clear the officer doesn't believe her when she gives Nathan an alibi by saying Nathan was with her at the flat. She doesn't remember what they were doing but had written the date in her school diary. Yes, that's really going to give her credibility. Anyway, her statement does the trick and Nathan is released. She's waited for him and he shows suitable gratitude. Oh, he's so creepy!

Back home, Sarah is making shepherd's pie and worrying what to do if they don't like Nathan. She later changes into a nice outfit, admired by Gary. Bethany and Nathan arrive and he is introduced. Gary and Sarah's face freeze at the sight of this older man. Nathan accepts a cup of tea and they exchange pleasantries. Gary and Bethany goes into the kitchen, freaked out at Nathan's age. Gary is all for taking him back the ginnel and have a talk with him. Sarah urges him to keep quiet until she figures out how to handle the situation lest she loses Bethany altogether.

Kirk is planning to pick up Maria as she's being let out of prison today. Beth is organizing a little welcome home party. Liam can hardly wait to see his mum but Aidan looks like a cat on a hot tin roof, and Eva even notices but he puts it down to work. She promises him more "us" time once Liam is back with Maria, nudge, nudge. He does smile at that prospect until she's out the door.

Aidan's preoccupation is affecting work and he tells his dad he's worried Maria will tell Eva about the affair. Johnny thinks it'll be ok, especially if the affair is over. Aidan confirms it is. Kirk questions a delivery so Aidan goes to sort that out, leaving Johnny thoughtful.

It's Johnny that goes to pick up Maria since Kirk was busy with the delivery problems. And he wants to have a little chat with her.

It's Faye's birthday. Rosie's given her makeup, Gary's given her a top and her mother has given her a bottle of nail varnish. Even with Kevin working all the hours there is, they can't spring for more than that, apparently. No word about a gift from Seb yet and it turns out he's not at school, he's working with Phelan. What's that about?

Roy gives Anna a cash bonus for all her good work and insists she take it. Although she talks non stop about how skint she is, and how rubbish her present to Faye is, she asks him what she's supposed to do with it. Anyway, she accepts it and hugs Roy in thanks. She gives the money, 100 pounds, to Faye who accepts it reluctantly. Anna tells her not to waste it, buy something she really wants. Kevin wasn't too keen on her gesture.

Toyah and Peter have a meeting with Steve and Liz about buying the Rovers. It sounds like they have a good financial plan, having some money already and getting more if and when the florist and shop sell. Steve and Peter shake on it but Liz doesn't seem quite so happy to sell to Peter. She tells them they'll rethink the sale if a cash buyer comes along. She won't be moved. She tells Steve she doesn't think Peter deserves a fresh start and Steve just wants things to go back to the way they were.

But Steve also tells her that Leanne might just be willing to compromise on him having access to the baby after all. Things are still up in the air so Liz pushes Steve to get it sorted sooner than later. Across the road, Leanne continues to ignore Steve's calls. She worries about Nick's reaction, as well though Toyah rightly points out that Steve and Nick are grown ups (even if they don't act it most of the time!) Leanne mentions taking Oliver for a routine check up later. Then she finds out that Peter and Toyah are going to try to buy the pub and she's dismayed, considering drinking will kill Peter.

In the cafe later, Liz overhears Nick tell Eva about the medical appointment and the time of it, and she ducks back out the door.

Peter has the cab in town. He gets out and is talking to Toyah on the phone. Sounds like Toyah wants to have a word with Tracy which amuses Peter. He's on his way to see the estate agent when Chloe pulls up across the way, having tracked him using her tablet. She waits. When Peter comes out of the estate agent's offices, Chloe "accidentally" bumps into him, tearful and afraid of her ex who is harassing her. Allegedly. He melts and offers to take her home safely. Result!

Meanwhile, Toyah talks to Tracy and suggests that Tracy try to buy the florist. Tracy doesn't think she's got a chance of getting a loan. Toyah uses a bit of psychological flattery, and you know, don't ask, don't get, right?

Lastly, Ken has lied and told people that Adam has gone back to Canada on important business and seems quite satisfied that Daniel believes him.

Tvor

Written by Susan Oudot and directed by Abe Juckes

As Maria stands outside the prison gates, clutching her possessions in a large plastic bag, Johnny tries to persuade her to put her affair with Aidan behind her a make a fresh start. But Maria isn't impressed, especially when he tries to buy her silence with the promise of a holiday and she tells him to stuff his treats.

The atmosphere round the tea table at the Platts' is somewhat strained to say the least. As Nathan tucks into the lasagne, Gary makes snide comments about his age, earning him a swift kick under the table from Sarah. Nathan reveals he's 35 and claims Bethany told him she was twenty when they first met.

Round at bunny-boiler-central, Chloe is milking her distress for all she's worth. She gets Peter to pour her a Scotch and then tearfully tells him he ought to be going but he falls for her acting routine and insists he's not one to leave a damsel in distress.

We return to Platt Towers where Nathan is being particularly smarmy. When Sarah tries explaining she doesn't want Bethany distracted from her schoolwork Nathan claims that Bethany's education is his top priority. Gary shakes his head and rolls his eyes.

Liz is standing outside the Rovers talking to Steve. She concludes that if Leanne is allowing him access he won't need a solicitor which means she won't have to sell her half of the pub. Steve points out he still needs to pay off Michelle and who will want to buy half a pub?

Across the street Phelan is giving relationship advice to Seb who has failed to buy Faye a birthday present. Just then the birthday girl herself comes bouncing along the street and reminds Seb he's coming round for his tea later. When she's gone, Phelan generously hands Seb a twenty pound note and tells him to spend it wisely.

Leanne is coming out of the medical centre with Oliver when she's accosted by Steve and Liz. She promised to talk about access and she hasn't been in touch. Leanne can't escape so she agrees to go round to their place so they can talk about it without the whole street listening.

In the Bistro Gail's on the white wine and she's prattling away to Shona about the fact she's had to make herself scarce while Bethany has her boyfriend Nathan round for his tea. Shona's ears prick up and she asks how old he is. Gail has no idea but reckons about 19 or 20. Shona looks visibly relieved.

Meanwhile Nathan and Bethany have finished their tea and are just leaving. The moment they've gone Gary flies off the handle. He can't believe that Sarah is happy about Bethany going out with a man of Nathan's age. But Sarah is far from happy. The only trouble is she's worried about losing her daughter and can't work out the best way to handle it. It's her problem for her to deal with, she tells Gary because Sarah's her daughter. Gary grabs his jacket and walks out.

Leanne has taken baby Oliver round to Steve and Liz's. While Steve tries to discuss access arrangements with Leanne, Liz asks for a cuddle with the baby. Then Steve wants a go and before Leanne has a chance to object they ask her if she'll take a quick photo of the three of them on Steve's phone. Leanne promises to speak to Nick. I wouldn't want to be in her shoes …

Michelle is having a catch-up with Maria over a cuppa and bonding over the fact they both know how it feels to lose a baby. Maria says if Steve had done that to her she thinks she'd want to kill him. Michelle may not plan to go that far but she certainly isn't going to let him off that easily, or Leanne either she says. Maria looks thoughtful as she receives a welcome home message from Eva on her phone.

Over at the Bistro Gail and Shona are getting on really well. Shona's top slips to reveal a mark on her arm. When Gail asks how she got it Shona admits she was in an abusive relationship with a man. She reassures Gail it's over and all behind her now. After Shona leaves, Gail asks Nick how the baby is. His face lights up at the question but clouds over again at the mention of Steve.

We move to the Rovers where Sarah joins Gary who's still in a bad mood over Nathan. Sarah tells him he's right, she doesn't want Bethany seeing him either but she also knows that someone like Nathan taking an interest in her will give Bethany a much-needed ego boost after all that happened last year. Sarah thinks if she tells Bethany she can't see Nathan it's going to make her even more determined to carry on. She says that at least if they're under her roof she'll know what Bethany's up to. All Sarah wants is to be a good mum. Gary hugs Sarah and looks thoughtful.

Back at Maria's she finds Michelle on her laptop going through Steve's emails. Michelle says she wants to know if he was having an affair.

Meanwhile, round at Anna's Faye is cuddling up with Seb on the sofa and telling him about the £100 her mum gave her for her birthday. She tells him she wants to spend it on something special that she can keep. Seb comes up with what he thinks is a great idea– matching his and hers tattoos! Faye mentions the obvious fact - they're not old enough so Seb suggests she's just scared of her mum finding out. In a bid to impress him, Faye agrees. Anna comes across and starts to chat. She asks how come Seb has time to work when he should be at school. He admits that he's been excluded for getting in a fight. As if that news isn't bad enough Anna then finds out that he's working for Pat Phelan.

Bethany has come home and when Sarah and Gary return from the Rovers she thanks her mum for being so understanding when she discovered how old Nathan is. Sarah tells her that she has some news and she has Gary to thank. He's suggested they should get a place together, somewhere with three bedrooms so Bethany and Harry will each have their own room and that will give Bethany some space of her own when Nathan stays over. "That's great," says Bethany awkwardly, obviously thinking that's the worst idea she's heard in a long time.

Maria arrives at Beth and Kirk's expecting to pick up Liam and walks in to a surprise welcome home party. The room is decorated with balloons and banners. Eva rushes forward to give her a hug while Aidan hangs back with a face like a wet weekend. Johnny emerges from the kitchen and has a whispered conversation with his son. He tells Aidan how he went to pick up Maria and tried to talk some sense into her. Maria thanks everyone for looking after Liam, especially Eva and Aidan she says, looking pointedly at him. As she hugs Eva, Maria tells them they are an amazing couple and gives Aidan another look.

Peter and Toyah are finishing a meal at home and discussing the likelihood of Tracy coming up with the money for the florist's so that Peter can buy into the Rovers. While Toyah fetches the pudding Peter sends a sneaky text to Chloe, asking if she's OK.

Meanwhile back at Platt Towers, Bethany is having a video chat with Nathan on her phone and telling him about the nightmare scenario of the new flat and the suggestion that he could stay over. Bethany pauses the call when Gail arrives home. Gail is in a giggly mood following her drink and when Bethany finally gets rid of her she tells Nathan it's just as bad staying there. He tells her she can always stay round at his place. He says she's his girl and she proved that today when she put herself on the line with the cops. Bethany tells Nathan she'd do anything for him. "Goodnight beautiful," says Nathan, closing the lid of his laptop. As he does so we see that Mel has been sitting opposite him all along. He tells her that today has been a good day and tomorrow they get to show off their new star attraction …

Karen

Toyah and Maria come face to face in the cafe. Toyah loudly orders a 'Manchester tart', which Maria takes as a personal slight. "If the shoe fits....." says Toyah, who has obviously not forgiven Maria for stealing her man many years ago.

Faye and Seb are in the cafe, talking about getting tattoos. Anna spots them and order Faye to get to school and asks why Seb isn't at work. He tells her that Pat is pretty laid back, to which Anna retorts that Faye's head teacher isn't, so they hurriedly leave.

Gary and Sarah are sitting with Izzy and telling her about their plans to move in together. Gary hopes Izzy is ok about it, (she is) and says he'll still see lots of Jake. Sarah says she'll cook him his favourite tea sometimes.

Nick tells Leanne that he's spoken to a solicitor friend and she'll meet them in the bistro at 5.30 to give them advice on what to do about Steve. Leanne isn't all that happy about this, she doesn't feel they need a solicitor and tries to say so, but Nick bulldozes his way through the conversation and tells her this is the way to make sure Steve doesn't get access to Oliver.

Bethany has her mobile phone on loudspeaker and is arranging to see Nathan later, and is overheard by Sarah. She tries to offer some advice but Bethany isn't listening. "You managed to get up the duff at 12," she retorts. Sarah agrees that she did, and she wouldn't recommend it. "Thanks!" says Bethany. Sarah ploughs on and tells her daughter that she thinks she should go on the pill, she's booked her an appointment at the medical centre, and then afterwards they'll get her some condoms.

Maria is in the salon talking to Gail when David comes in and asks, jokingly, to see the tag round her ankle, and makes jokes about Gail being an ex-con too. David then asks if she fancies an early drink in the Rovers before curfew, but she tells him she's steering clear of the Rovers and the new barmaid Toyah. So David asks her back to his house, telling her that Liam can play with his kids. Gail sits taking all this in.

Sarah and Bethany are at the medical centre waiting for Bethany's appointment. When she's called, Bethany makes it clear that she doesn't want Sarah with her.

Maria storms back to her flat where Michelle is looking at photos on her laptop. She's had hair dye spilt on her top, and she tells Michelle how she got a mouthful off Toyah in the cafe. Then she looks to see what Michelle is looking at. It seems she's found the photo of Steve, Liz and baby Oliver.

Nick and Leanne are meeting with the solicitor in the bistro, but Robert is concerned because he knows that Michelle will be coming in soon. He phones her, trying to put her off for a few hours, but Michelle says she's going stir crazy and besides she's in the mood for his chocolate raspberry pudding. In the end he has to tell her that Nick and Leanne are in there, so she hangs up but marches over there anyway.

Bethany is in the with doctor, and, after being reassured that all is confidential, confesses that she doesn't need the pill, she already has an implant but her mother doesn't know. The doctor asks if she's in a secure and loving relationship. Bethany says she is, he's perfect. As she leaves, she's handed some leaflets and urged to talk to her mum.

Nick is telling the solicitor that Oliver has had no contact with Steve since he was born. Leanne looks uncomfortable but says nothing. Michelle has come in and is sitting behind them at the bar, and it seems she has sent the picture of Steve, Liz and Oliver to Nick's phone, which bleeps. When Nick looks at it he is not happy.

Nick wonders if Leanne would ever had said anything, and she says she tried to tell him earlier. He asks who took the picture, and Michelle, from her stool at the bar, chips in that if he looks carefully he will see Leanne's reflection in the mirror, holding the phone. While the solicitor sits at the table looking increasingly uncomfortable, Nick tells Leanne that every word that comes out of her mouth is a lie. "What happened to Oliver being our son?" asks Nick. Leanne tells him that Steve just wants to see him, he is his dad. Nick stands up, thanks Michelle for the 'heads up' and leaves. Leanne leaves soon after. Robert turns to Michelle and tells her she's got what she wanted, Leanne's life is a mess, now she should leave it. Michelle laughs as she sips her wine. "Are you kidding? I haven't even started yet!"

Anna is moaning to Izzy about Seb, she's not happy because he's been excluded from school and is working with scumbag Phelan, she's going to tell Faye to dump him. Izzy asks Anna if, when she was a teenager, she'd been told to leave a lad alone, what would she have done? Anna sees her point, but wishes Faye could just find somebody nice.

Sarah and Bethany are in the cafe, Sarah's giving Bethany instructions about how and when to take the pill. Bethany just smiles and nods. Sarah is planning a girlie night in for the two of them, but Bethany has plans to go and see Nathan, he's having some friends round. Sarah tells her to be back by 11, she has school tomorrow.

It seems that Faye has gone along with the plan to get a tattoo, but Seb hasn't. He assures her he will get one some time.

Nick sees Steve outside the pub and says he wants a word, so they go inside where a furious Nick demands to know what Steve thinks he's playing at. Steve wonders why Nick is so angry, just because he wants a relationship with Olly. Nick snaps that his name is Oliver! Steve tells him if he wants to see his son, he will, especially when his mum is quite happy for him to do so. That is news to Nick, and it takes the wind out of his sails a bit, especially when Steve says they're talking about joint custody. He adds that he's going to be a good dad to Olly and he'll fight anyone who gets in his way.

Bethany is at Nathan's gathering. It seems that she and Mel are the only females in a room full of men. Bethany is wearing a red dress and lots of make up and wonders if she looks ok. Nathan comes over then and asks Mel if she's introduced Bethany to everyone, but Mel reckons Nathan would be better at that.

Maria is enjoying a drink in David's kitchen, but has to get home before her tag goes off. Gail comes in, pleased to see them laughing together, and even more pleased when Maria hugs him goodbye.

Bethany and Mel are talking to one of Nathan's guests, when they go off to get another drink, Nathan asks him if he likes what he sees. He says he'd like to see a bit more, but Nathan tells him it's not the right time. "When she's ready, you will be the first to know," he says. He walks over to Bethany who remarks that his mate seems dead nice. "Trust me, they'll all love you when they get to know you," he says.

Anne Logan.

Things are tense in the Battersby-Tilsley household where Nick's still being stubborn and Leanne's trying to apologise. Then she snaps and tells him that a baby is supposed to be a joyful thing and she's sick and tired of all the rowing. She tells him Oliver is Steve's son and no amount of solicitors can change that. Nick's focused on the fact that Steve said he'd report him to the police but Leanne says that was in the heat of the moment and Steve's probably forgotten it. "Do you want a long, drawn-out fight that we can't win?" Nick accuses her of not being on his side and says he thinks she is just tired of their relationship. He stomps off, leaving Lee in tears.

Steve's looking uncertain in front of his laptop. Then we see he's drawn up a calendar and is about to enter some Access Days.

Fay tells Craig she got a tattoo but she's a bit worried about it. She pulls down her waistband and shows him the tattoo on her hip. He says it looks inflamed. Seb comes over and Fay points out he's not had a tattoo. Seb says she's spoilt the surprise. He wanted to design his own and get a picture of her tattooed on his shoulder. Craig goes off, but not before telling Fay she should get someone to look at the tattoo. Fay tells Seb that Craig's making her feel paranoid. "Does this look OK to you?" He tells her it looks fine but Fay says it's really itchy.

David tells Gail that Lily made him run all the way to the child minder's. Gail explains that Bethany told Lily that if she ran everywhere, time would go faster and Christmas would come sooner. David says he loves the kids but sometimes he feels as if the salon is the only sane place he's got. Gail tells him that's because Maria's there, that they're kindred spirits. They have a lot in common home- work- and relationship-wise. Maria's always been like a granddaughter or a unofficial goddaughter to Audrey. David realises what she means and protests he doesn't think he and Maria would get together. Gail tells him she saw them together. "I know what I can see. Stranger things have happened."

In the flat, Sinead's reading about planning maternity leave but Daniel's very distracted. There's a knock at the door. It's a young woman with long, curly, blonde hair. She asks after Adam but really she's just brought back one of Sinead's jumpers which she borrowed to get home after staying overnight with Adam - she was only wearing something skimpy. Daniel asks whether there's any message for Adam. "Yeah - drop dead!" When she's gone, Sinead tells Daniel there's no way she's raising a baby in this place!

Nick snubs Michelle in the street and she asks why the attitude. "So much for gratitude." Nick says he knows she only sent the photo out of spite. She tells him the two of them are in the same boat and she's not the enemy.

Daniel asks if Sinead meant what she said about getting their own place. She says she did. He would like to put some distance between them before Adam gets back. "Down south, maybe?" Sinead doesn't like the idea of moving away from family and friends in Weatherfield. They're going to need all the support they can get. Daniel's phone keeps going. It's the third time his tutor has rung but he rejects the call. Sinead says she'd better get going. Aunty Beth is going with her to see the midwife at 1.30.

Nick's gone to see his Mum and tells her about Steve wanting access. "Is Leanne out of her mind?" she asks. "It'll be shared parenting before you know it." She tells Nick he never should have got involved with Leanne. She saw Nick was vulnerable and available and swooped. Nick points out that he did the chasing but Gail says Leanne just made it seem that was. She thinks Nick should leave her. "Just abandon a woman and baby?" he asks. Gail says it's Steve's baby. Nick points that doesn't mean he loves Leanne any less. "That's what she's banking on!" Gail tells him.

Sarah meets Bethany in the street and after demanding to know why she's not at school, asks what time she got in last night. Bethany says it was just before 11. Sarah pretends to call the police and report she heard a very noisy burglary at six minutes to one this morning. Bethany admits she lost track of time. Sarah points out that her curfew is 11 and she was almost two hours late. If it happens again, Bethany will be grounded.

Simon comes home from school (a half-day inset day) and talks to Leanne about Oliver not sleeping. He realises she and Nick have had an argument. She tells him Nick went out earlier and either his phone has died or he's blanking her. They're supposed to be going to register Oliver's birth this afternoon. Simon asks how she thinks Nick will feel going with her to register the birth and seeing her leave a blank where he thinks his name should be. Leanne realises she has to go on her own.

Anna comes in and catches Fay looking at the inflamed tattoo. She's furious and demands to know who put her up to it and what parlour would give an under-age girl a tattoo. Fay admits she got a fake ID from Seb and used that. She denies it came via Pat Phelan - Seb got it through some kid at school. "And this is the boy that you claim to love?" Anna demands. Fay insists she does love him and is going to save up another 100 pounds and get a second one done. Anna's appalled. "I can't afford to pay my gas bill and you spent 100 pounds on that eyesore? You're a stupid, self-centred little girl and I'm ashamed to call you my daughter!"

Simon comes out of Victoria Court and meets Steve loitering by the door. He wants to Steve Leanne and in explaining why he can't, Simon reveals where she's gone. Steve jogs off.

Bethany and Nathan are in the cafe. She tells him the party was the best but Sarah was annoyed. Nathan says he's surprised how she reacted. He thought she'd been cooler than that. Bethany says next time she might not even go home. "Why not go the whole hog and let me take you away for a weekend," Nathan suggests. It would certainly get Sarah's attention.

Steve's not the only one loitering. Fay's on the bus-stop side of the hair salon, rubbing her painful hip, when Izzy finds her there. She tells Fay the tattoo looks infected and agrees to go with her to Accident and Emergency.

In the pub, David tells Nick about Gail's plan to get him together with Maria. Nick says that's ironic, considering Gail's trying to get him to bin Leanne. But he still loves Leanne. David tells him it's not going to be easy. He suggests Nick speak to Steve and find out exactly what he's demanding, then maybe they can meet halfway.

Leanne's registering Oliver Benjamin when Steve screeches to a halt in a taxi and races into the office where she's meeting with a registrar. He tells Leanne he wants his name on the birth certificate. He doesn't want to be Unknown - he's not trying to take control but to be responsible.

Fay's annoyed that Izzy's called Gary to come to the hospital. She still refuses to let them tell Anna. "She's ashamed of me," she says, telling Izzy and Gary that Anna pretended it was about the tattoo but really it was about Pat Phelan. She's never liked Seb and now Seb's working for Phelan. She gets up to get a drink of water and hears someone shout, "No, Miley," and there's her baby running in the corridor.

Steve has brought Leanne home and Nick finds them in the street. It seems he didn't skip the appointment at the registry office. He thought it was next week. The penny drops. "Please don't tell me you took Steve." Leanne tries to explain that Steve just turned up but Nick is furious. Why can't Steve stay out of their lives? Why can't he realise that Oliver is their son, not his?" Steve begs to differ and hands over the new birth certificate.

The End.
Margaret Carr

Good evening. Time for another update from here. A reminder we are all volunteers and fairly wide spread. Later this year there will be six episodes and some of us take holidays from time to time - so we would welcome any volunteers able to join the little band of typists. All you have to do is record events on the Street. I have been doing it on and off for more than 15 years now so it can be that wearing! Get in touch if you feel you can assist.

This is episode 9124. It was written by Mark Burt and it was directed by Abe Juckes (which is a new name on me). The copyright remains the property of ITV to whom many thanks.

Action commences at A&E at the hospital where Faye has suddenly seen her daughter Miley and former friend Jackson who are apparently back in the UK from Canada. The most either parent can manage is "Hi".

Back on the Street Leanne is pushing a pram containing Ollie (everyone except Nick) / Oliver (just Nick). Leanne is defending Steve's name on the birth certificate. Nick is incandescent that she has allowed Steve's name to be added to the certificate after all that had been said (and contrary to the first episode this evening Leanne had agreed to Nick's name appearing - not leaving a blank). Leanne says that the paper is not needed to make Nick a father to their son. But Nick replies that he needs to trust his son's mother. He then walks away from her.

In the salon David and Maria are having a laugh about Gail. Maria seems highly amused by the idea. Maria offers to put Gail straight but David suggests they milk it for all it is worth. Maria readily assents to a little light entertainment.

Back at the hospital Jackson rapidly explains to Faye, Izzy and Gary that his father has had to return to the UK for some special hip replacement treatment. Izzy admits she has an infected tattoo. Jackson is very good at looking after Miley - some colouring and so on. He has to go - but he gives the picture to Faye to remember them by. They are back for a couple of weeks and Jackson is really enjoying Canada. Faye cannot take her eyes off of Miley. Miley waves goodbye and Jackson suggests that before they return to Canada perhaps they can all get together. Faye agrees. Gary comforts Faye.

Nick wanders into the Bistro where Michelle is sat at the bar. After a little persuasion by her he orders a bottle of red wine for them to have a chat.

Also in the Bistro is Daniel who is explaining to (presumably) his assigned lecturer that he does not think he can accept the offer from Oxford who initially thinks he is joking. Daniel agrees that academically it is all he has ever wanted - but there are some other things which may be more important. He refuses to disclose the reason behind his decision.

In the salon David cannot believe Gail has been telling Nick want to do. Maria wanders in with some clean towels and Gail is going - she just wants to know what David wanted for tea. Tuna bake apparently and Maria jumps in - it is Liam's favourite. David takes a while to catch on and then invites Maria and Liam to join them for tea - to which she agrees providing she is home by 7 and does not provoke the Weatherfield police arriving at the Platt house. David agrees that happens too often. Gail departs to do the cooking with a huge smile on her face believing the two of them would make a great couple, whilst David and Maria have huge smiles on their faces at the ease with which they are reeling her into a little deception! They bump fists in celebration.

Robert delivers drinks to Daniel and the lecturer. The latter calls Daniel one of the most naturally gifted students he has ever taught. Robert stays within earshot. The lecturer tells Daniel that if he passes up the opportunity of Oxford he will regret it for the rest of his life. Meanwhile at the bar Nick and Michelle now have a bottle of red in front of them. Nick knows he should not care so much, but Leanne says it is just a piece of paper. Michelle tells Nick that Leanne has him brainwashed - could he see it? He says it is not malicious. Michelle tells him that Leanne only looks out for number one. Nick disputes this, she loves Simon and Oliver more than anything. Michelle asks where that puts Nick - he clearly does not matter.

Steve is silently closing the bedroom door. He has managed to get Ollie to sleep after recalling the names of Weatherfield County players going back to 1932 eventually boring him to sleep. Steve is about to go when he remembers he made a timetable and he hands the spreadsheet over to Leanne. She is far from amused and does not want the discussion. Before Steve goes he tells Leanne that he hopes she and Nick sort things out shortly as Nick is a good bloke. He reminds her that Nick is crazy about her. She will look at the paper tomorrow and hopes that they can all get something sorted. Steve says it would be best if Nick was included in that. Leanne just wants Nick home. Steve leaves.

In one of the Bistro booths Michelle is saying she and Nick should have had this discussion much sooner. Nick merely observes that it beats getting hammered alone. They toast the "Mugs of the World". Condition of membership - having been shafted by Leanne or Steve. Robert interrupts and takes Michelle into the kitchen for a quiet word. Once there Robert asks what she is playing at. He reminds her that Nick is with Leanne - but Michelle does not see it lasting much longer as they had a little falling out today - this time she was not responsible. She is just consoling Nick and it is none of Robert's beeswax. Robert says they are both his friends and that makes it his business. Michelle asks if he was Nick's friend when he slept with Carla? She has brought it up because she and Nick have more in common than she thought. Robert says she is lashing out because she hurts. Michelle asks if he is the man planning to take the pain away? He says he is simply looking out for her. But she is not in agreement. He is trying to save her and it is boring. She does not need saving. So will he change the record and take the lovesick puppy act elsewhere? He agrees it is crystal clear. Michelle walks back into the public area and tells Nick they are getting out of here as it is too noisy (casting a glance at Robert) and going to her place. Robert watches them leave together.

Back from the break we reopen in Roy's Rolls where Gail is looking at Roy's recipes. Shona agrees she can borrow it (the secret ingredient is nutmeg). Gail tells Shona that David and Maria are getting closer. So now Shona knows David is back in the game. And Gail admits to fanning the flames. Shona says that if anyone deserves to find happiness it is David. Gail reckons there is definitely a connection. Gail says that Maria does have a lot of baggage but Shona suggests that David might be the right one to unpack it. Gail thinks that is a lovely sentiment. (My money is on Aidan!). Gail observes that Maria also has an electronic tag. Best line of the night - Shona observes that just makes Maria exotic in her book!

At Maria's both Michelle and Nick are laying back on the sofa very close together and Michelle wants her glass refilled. Nick has a stupid question he wants to ask Michelle. Eventually he asks her if she thinks that Carla was too good for him. Michelle says "Of course not!". Nick thinks of himself as the "Human Doormat" and not a match for Carla. Michelle reckons she can do better with two - Steve McDonald. Nick tells her she wins. And they smile at each other.

In Kev's kitchen Anna and Tim await Faye's return. Anna lays into her as Faye carefully closes the door behind herself. Faye says she has been at the hospital and has some antibiotics. Faye tries to change the subject by saying they have got guests. They go through to the other room and FAye opens the door - Izzy, Gary, Jackson and Miley are there. Anna is overcome to see them all.

At the flat Leanne is tucking up Oliver when Simon returns in his Aikido clothes. It went well and Simon has not seen Nick. He admits to seeing Steve and telling him that Leanne was registering the baby. Leanne knows as Steve gate crashed. Nick has found out and is not best pleased. She also admits that Steve is named on the certificate. She admits that Si's mother would be dangerous if she had a brain. She needs to go and find Nick. Simon says sorry for telling Steve. Leanne tells him that she is to blame - no-one else. Anyway she needs to see Nick and put things right.

Daniel returns to his flat and Sinead can report that she is a finely-tuned baby-making machine. Rachel is apparently amazing. She answered all the questions. And in case of an emergency Auntie Beth has agreed to be a reserve birth partner. Daniel seems a little unsure! Anyway Sinead might talk to Izzy. He admits to talking to his lecturer - but not what they discussed. Sinead says that all is well with the world and gives him a big kiss. Over her shoulder his face tells another story.

Anna is monopolising Miley - but she is slowly passed around for cuddles. Faye is reluctant to have a cuddle. Jackson talks to Miley all the time about Faye - he makes up stories about her - usually as a Princess, but sometimes a secret agent - Faye prefers the latter. Faye holds Miley and Anna refers to her as "mother".

Robert is thinking for a few moments and then decides to go out. On the Street Leanne is outside Gail's house talking to her about wanting the best for Oliver - but Gail of course thinks Nick should come first. Gail has nothing more to say to her. Gail has to go to cook tea for someone having a positive influence on one of her son's lives.

Leanne moves away - pushing the pram and explains to Robert that Gail has always considered her a witch and probably wants to drown her now. Robert has heard that she has had a barney with Nick. Leanne says that is an understatement and she cannot do right for doing wrong. Robert says that Nick was in the Bistro earlier but he lies and says he has no idea where he went. Robert admits that Nick seemed troubled. She tells Robert that she needs to fix this. He offers to walk Leanne home and will let her know if he sees Nick. He casts a glance upwards at Maria's flat.

Inside the flat Michelle and Nick are now very close to each other. Nick observes they have run out of wine. She tells him to forget the wine. He asks what are they doing there? Then she leans forward and kisses Nick. he kisses her back much harder, pushing her back onto the sofa. And then after kissing her for far too long he breaks off and apologises. he says that this is not him. He gives her another peck and then says he is sorry - but he has realised that he still loves Leanne. Michelle asks why would he still love her? He gets up and says he needs to go home. Michelle says he has got nothing there - just like she has nothing. And Leanne is responsible for both of them having nothing. Nick says this is not just about Michelle wanting to hurt Leanne. He takes his coat and goes. Now Nick is not usually the sharpest knife in the drawer but he nailed this one. Michelle is angry that her best womanly wiles have let her down.

Miley is now in Tim's lap surrounded by the family except Anna and Faye who are in the kitchen. TIm says at least Miley does not have the Metcalfe furrowed brow from spending too much time with women. Tim reassures Jackson his visit is not a mistake. Miley has cheered Anna up no end and Gary reckons it is a godsend. Anna apologises to Faye - she only gets angry and tells her off because she loves her. Anna still hates the tattoo though. The front door bell rings (does anyone actually have a rear door bell?) and Anna opens it to Seb. Apparently he left his phone behind and had to look at another job with Pat and he wonders how Faye is? Anna tells him Faye is on antibiotics and will be better in a few days. But she is stuck with that hideous tattoo for the foreseeable. He asks to see her - but Anna says she is busy entertaining her daughter and he ex-boyfriend (and boy does Anna relish conveying this message to Seb). She smiles at Seb (well if you can call it a smile) and then says "Night, night!" to him. She shuts the door firmly as she goes indoors.

Nick is sitting on Maxeem's bench. He sits still and then sighs deeply. He has made a decision. He stands and walks towards Victoria Court.

Roll credits.

I can possibly see a difficult story ahead for Faye. Tonight she initially did not seem interested - but a mother's love for her child cannot be denied. And frankly Seb needs his face rubbing something.

No Peter / Toyah / Chloe tonight. Guess that will be back shortly.

I bet Aidan does not like what he hears when Shona tells him how close Maria is getting to David?

And has Nick decided that he and Leanne cannot co-exist or that he is willing to accept Steve has some right to parent Olly / Oliver? Nick could have handled this better. Of course how many more obstacles can Michelle raise?

These questions and many more will be resolved in future episodes of our favourite long running drama.

Finally in the words of Mrs Dale I am still very worried about Emily Bishop or perhaps that should be Eileen Derbyshire.

See you next week.
Richard

Let's get right down to it, shall we?

Brian might believe in mumbo jumbo, but Todd doesn't. Not sure if Phelan does but he did know some of the lingo and told Todd he might even believe in ghosts. Watch this space. Now there's flickering lights and groaning sounds coming from the flat. Todd reckons it's Tina's ghost. Or maybe Michael haunting them! Phelan doesn't think it's very funny.

Sinead and Daniel are now flat hunting. Beth saw one in the newspaper so Sinead is going to surprise him with it. But the last tenant died in that bed. I'm surprised that the landlord didn't replace the mattress and I'm surprised it didn't put Sinead off. But he still hasn't told her about the Oxford offer that he turned down.

Robert overheard Daniel and the tutor and he knows about Oxford and Daniel didn't tell him he turned it down either. Robert then spilled beans to Ken about Oxford. Was Daniel keeping it a surprise for Ken? or does Ken wonder if he was going to be told at all? Ken and Brian had a conversation about it, with Brian very familiar with Oxford because he went to school there. Not university, a polytech (kind of like a community college.) Brian advises a celebration and Ken is going ahead with that.

Someone else is going to get a surprise. Daniel thinks it's about their new flat but Ken dropped the Oxford bomb. Whoops!

Michelle is feeling very guilty about being rude to Robert (and hurting his love lorn feelings, I suppose) and she and Nick apologized all over the place. Forget it ever happened, meaning it's bound to come out eventually. Well, Michelle is off to see Carla for a bit so we won't have to see her snarling face for a few weeks. At least Robert managed to talk sense into her so she didn't embarrass herself again in public giving Leanne a taste of her own medicine. A snog. That's it. Robert's right, not much of a bombshell. Off you go. Unfortunately, she'll probably be back at some point.

Leanne is wondering where Nick has got to because he didn't come home. Probably slept at Mummy's. It was pretty rotten of him to leave her hanging all night *and* all day without a word but that's typical Nick. Childish. Passive Aggressive. an apology is all very well and good and he did apologize and he decided to back off and be reasonable.

Toyah's found a roll of cash large enough to choke a horse. Where did that come from? She's noticed he's feeling restless and edgy, too. He pretends that his regular fare's problems with their ex is bothering him. Toyah assumes it's a man and Peter doesn't say any different. Warning bells! Peter keeps going back to Chloe and she keeps telling tales to keep him there. Peter's in the danger zone and make no mistake about it. She's pouring it on thick and yet he doesn't hear the alarm bells.

Seb is in a bad mood, worried that Faye's old boyfriend Jackson is going to prove a problem. Faye seems a lot more comfortable with the baby than before. But Seb really does seem intimidated by the wonderful Jackson so he took matters into his own hands and beat the crap out of him. It was quite shocking, actually, coming out of the blue like that. Poor Jackson!

Tvor

It's all kicking off in the Bistro. Sinead shouts at Daniel for not telling her about his offer from Oxford, Ken cries back that it's a wonderful opportunity, Daniel yells at his father to shut up and meanwhile Brian wants to know if anyone's ordering a starter.

Across town Peter has finished securing Chloe's front door and makes to leave. But Chloe has other ideas and decides to show Peter exactly what she has in mind as she grabs him in a clinch. For a moment it looks as though he's going to respond to her kiss but then he pulls away. He tells her he can't do this. Chloe doesn't take kindly to his rebuttal and mentions all the money she's given him. Peter tells her he couldn't afford to turn it down but denies flirting and tells Chloe it was all banter - it's just the way he is with women. She begs him to forget what's just happened and start again but Peter can't get away fast enough.

Back on the street Sinead is sitting on the bench while Daniel tries to reason with her. She asks what sort of future they can have together if he lies to her but Daniel insists he never intended to go to Oxford, he's going to go to Manchester instead. Daniel tells Sinead he loves her and says he wants his future to be with her and the baby.

Todd and Phelan are round at Luke's, fixing the lights. They flicker on and then we hear a strange sound. Luke explains that's the noise he's been talking about. Phelan says it's the pipes but Todd can't resist making eerie noises and joking about Tina and the ghostly sounds of Michael's ice-cream van. Phelan is getting irritated with Todd. The lights go off again and Todd warms to his theme, talking about the Weatherfield haunting. Phelan is not amused.

We return to the Bistro where Toyah is on the phone, trying to get hold of Peter while Brian is boring Tracy on the subject of recycling. Daniel comes back in, looking for Ken who's gone home. He helps himself to a glass of wine and tells the assembled company he's sick of people pressurising him. Even Tracy can't understand why he's choosing to stay with Sinead when he's only known her five minutes. She tells Amy they're going home as the show's over, leaving Brian wondering who's paying the bill. Robert comes over and admits to Daniel that he was the one who inadvertently told Ken about Oxford.

Leanne and Nick pay Steve a call to sort out access arrangements. It's a brief meting but they manage to remain civil as they agree that Steve can see Oliver two days a week. The moment Leanne is out of the door, Nick can't resist telling Steve that Michelle has gone to visit Carla and he gleefully adds that, given the way she was talking, she might not come back at all.

Ken bumps into Sinead who is coming out of the Rovers. She looks puzzled when he tells her he wants to have a word with her in private and suggests they go back to his.

Seb is at home with Faye and there's something on his mind. He admits what's troubling him – he's worried he's going to lose her. Before he can say any more there's a knock at the door – it's the police who tell Faye they're looking for a Sebastian Franklin. Faye shows them in while Seb legs it out the back door. Across the road, Tim is emerging from the Kabin with Miley and he watches as the police grab hold of Seb and arrest him for assault. Meanwhile Jackson appears with Craig who we gather is responsible for calling the police.

Ken sits down with Sinead for a quiet word. He tells her how he missed out on the opportunity to go to Oxford and now he wants to fulfil his dreams through Daniel. Sinead tries to defend their relationship and tells Ken she's not trying to hold Daniel back, she only heard about Oxford herself an hour ago and besides, it's Daniel's decision. Ken's view is that it's a short-term relationship and Daniel's not thinking straight so Sinead has no choice but to tell him about the baby. Ken looks suitably horrified.

Ken is furious and demands to know how they could have been so careless - you'd think he, of all people, should know the answer to that one! Ken gets really unpleasant and sarcastic, telling Sinead that Daniel can't really love her and that they are totally ill-suited, the implication being that she doesn't match his high intellect. Sinead reminds Ken about him and Deirdre but he dismisses their relationship and tells her his fate was sealed and that he was stuck in Coronation Street. Sinead tells Ken that's a terrible thing to say because Deirdre loved him. "And I loved her. Very, very dearly," replies Ken. Sinead tells Ken that Daniel isn't just settling for her, he chose her because he loves her. As she's saying this we see Tracy and Amy creeping through the front door. They overhear Ken say that he never had the conversation with Deirdre that he craved, there was never a real meeting of minds. But the understood each other, he adds and that, Tracy's excesses apart, he'll always be grateful for the life they had. However, given the choice he wouldn't have opted for that life. Ken tells Sinead that Daniel will look back on this moment as the turning point in his life when he was denied the golden opportunity by the factory girl who trapped him. Ken says he knows it's a cliche but if she really loves Daniel she'll let him go. Tracy and Amy quickly hide as a distraught Sinead leaves.

Round at Anna's, Tim and Faye listen while she has a conversation on the phone with Jackson's mother who says that, given what's happened with Seb, Miley can't go round there again. Anna says she doesn't blame Josie – Seb is bad news and she doesn't want Faye seeing him any more.

Meanwhile Phelan has arrived at the police station. Seb was told to ring an appropriate adult so he decided that Phelan seemed like his best bet. Phelan advises Seb that he needs to learn to channel his anger and to keep a cool head –which is a touch ironic coming from him!

Peter arrives home to find Toyah waiting for him. He keeps up the pretence that he was helping a male friend. Toyah fills him in on what happened in the Bistro then asks Peter if he has anything on his mind, something he might want to share with her. He insists there's nothing he needs to tell her. So Toyah offers to make a hot chocolate, pulls out the tin from the back of the cupboard and tells Peter it's a new brand she's discovered which is surprisingly rich. With that she empties out the cash she found hidden in the tin.

Daniel arrives home with a bunch of flowers to find the flat in darkness and a note for him on the table. It reads: Gone away for a bit, need to think, please don't try contacting me, Sinead xx. He throws down the flowers and sighs.

We return to Peter and Toyah. He's told her the money came from tips. She asks if he thinks she's some kind of moron – there's almost two grand in cash. Peter says ok, he'll tell her the "truth" and makes up a story about winning a bet on the races. Toyah asks the name of the horse. Thinking on his feet, Peter says it was called Crazy Chloe. He tells Toyah he didn't mention it before as he wanted it to be a surprise so they could put the money towards the IVF. Toyah still looks unsure but she tells Peter that she's sorry she doubted him and they hug as the credits roll.

Karen

Hello,

We begin with Tracy and Amy at breakfast. Tracy tries to have a sensitive discussion about what they heard Ken saying. They're interrupted by Matthew from business banking, who calls to tell Tracy they've turned down her application for a loan. Amy thinks all banks should be nationalised. Ken comes in and she says she's proud of being interested in politics. Ken's worried about Daniel and Sinead. He knows he shouldn't have stuck his oar in but he doesn't like to see potential being wasted. Tracy asks if that includes the potential for florists. She says he's her last hope. But Ken refuses to enable Peter's crazy scheme to buy the pub.

Mary asks Todd if he's seen Tracy anywhere. He hasn't but he takes the opportunity to ask her about Brendan and the paranormal. He tells her about Phelan worrying that the flat is haunted. She tells him not to pooh-pooh it and mentions she still has Brendan's camera for recording paranormal activity. When Todd hears that it streams to a phone he asks to borrow it.

Toyah and Peter talk about last night and Peter assures her he'd never hide anything from her. Then he offers to help her with the injections she has to give herself as part of the IVF process. He gets a text from Tracy, who wants to see him. He hopes it means she's got the money.

Liz, in curlers, tells Steve the estate agent has just called. They want to send round a cash buyer, no chain.

Mary talks to Tracy about the quality of the gladdies from the wholesaler. Tracy wonders what the point is when she might not have the shop in a couple of weeks. Peter arrives and she tells him she hasn't got the money. She also tells him what Ken said about not enabling his crazy scheme. Peter points out that the shop is his only asset and if she can't buy then he'll have to sell to someone else. Tracy is very annoyed. "I can tell you that Trexit is not going to happen!"

Seb's helping Phelan load the van. Anna comes over and tells Phelan he shouldn't be giving work to a thug. Phelan says Seb works for him and it's nothing to do with Anna. Seb tries to ask if Fay's all right. Anna says she's told Fay she's never to see or speak to Seb again. She goes away as Todd comes along. Phelan asks if he's able to help out at the flat but Todd says he's not. He's meeting Billy. Seb can't stay, either. He's got to see his solicitor. Todd asks if Phelan's worried about the flat being haunted. Phelan denies it.

Ken's kitchen is stacked in the dining room. While he hunts for the teaspoons Tracy appeals to him again, saying it would be her mother's legacy to be remembered with investment in a good business. They could call it Deirdre's Daffs. This only annoys Ken, who tells Tracy to stop pretending it's about her mother when it's about her. Arguing that he invested in Daniel's future and this would be investing in Amy's doesn't convince Ken, either.

Peter's telling Steve that the money from the sale of the shop will be delayed. Steve tells him there's a cash buyer coming round. And in walks Chloe. "Sorry I'm late," she says, blaming the taxi. "My regular driver let me down."

Liz introduces Peter as another interested buyer. He asks if she's genuine about wanting to buy. She says she is - when she sets her heart on something she always gets it. Liz takes her to see more of the pub and Peter tells Steve Chloe's a time waster. He knows her sort. Toyah comes in wanting to support Peter and he has trouble getting rid of her. He does, just before Chloe and Liz come back. "Would it be possible to see the bedrooms?" Chloe asks, giving Peter a sly wink.

Seb races after Fay in the street, trying to say he's sorry. He tells her he was jealous at the thought of her being with someone else.

Daniel asks Ken if he's seen Sinead. Ken sort of apologises, though, as Daniel points out, it's a rubbish apology. He says he was just so excited at the thought of Daniel being offered a place. Daniel says he's really worried about Sinead - about Sinead and the baby. He's defensive and tells Ken that they're having the baby, though he knows Ken will say he's throwing his life away. "But Sinead is my life." Ken asks him to come back to the house and promises he'll listen.

We see Sinead call Beth and we also see she's in a termination clinic.

Ken tells Daniel he thought most young men would run a mile if their girlfriend got pregnant. Daniel says he loves Sinead. Ken tells him he can do the fatherhood thing later on, when he's finished university. Daniel insists he can do both and he can have a family, which he didn't have before. Ken says he's sorry for treating the relationship as if it was a flash in the pan. "I can see now how deeply you care for her." As for hearing from Sinead, he says all they can do is sit and wait.

Phelan enters the flat and turns on the lights. They go off again seconds later. He gets out a torch and starts to shine it round the flat fearfully. "WHAAAAAHHHH!!!" Oops. It's only Todd, who says he's brought Phelan some coffee. He couldn't meet Billy after all because Billy's busy with an exorcism. While Phelan's back is turned he sets up the camera on a shelf and puts a phone under a cushion on the sofa.

Chloe's in the back room telling Liz and Steve she's going to make an offer and Peter invites himself into the room. Chloe's going and he offers to drive her.

Out in the yard he follows her into the ginnel, telling her she's deluded and insane and grabbing her arm to get her to stop. Neither notice Ken watching from an upstairs window as Peter tells her to stay away or he won't be responsible.

Sinead's tearful as she asks Beth whether Daniel knows where she is. No. And Beth lied and told Johnny she was going to the doctor's. Beth passes on a message from Daniel - that if Beth heard from Sinead she was to tell her he loved her. Beth tells her not to do anything rash. Sinead cries as she says it's too late. "I've already done it."

Chloe's still in the ginnel, trying to call another cab company. Ken asks if she's all right and says he saw her arguing. Chloe says she's fine. She just had a stupid row with her boyfriend. Ken asks if she'd like to come in for a cup of tea and chat. She refuses. "I don't know you." Ken says he's Peter's father and she immediately changes her mind. She'd love a cup of tea and a chat.

The end.
Margaret Carr

Good evening. Written very quickly as we lose an hour tonight and I am off to Cyprus for some sun in the morning and I would like some sleep tonight.

This is episode 9128 and it was written by John Kerr and the director was Suri Krishnamma. Copyright remains the property of ITV.

Inside number one, over a brew, Chloe tells Ken how she and Peter are having an affair, she cares for him, she praises him and that regrettably Peter is drinking again. She adds how they would sit in the cab for hours talking and she knows about Ken being ill and so on and it developed into something more. She also reveals that she lent him £2,000 and she's planning to buy the pub simply to stop Peter from ruining his life.

At the clinic Sinead tells Beth that she was never meant to get pregnant; Beth makes it clear the two youngsters should have discussed the abortion. Anyway SInead now knows that there is nothing keeping Daniel in Weatherfield now and they are not going to be together. Sinead knows she cannot tell him she had an abortion.

At Preston's Petals (it never will be Deirdre's Daffs) Mary is trying to rebuild Tracy's confidence - but she is keenly aware that her family are not gong to help her. She also regrets pushing for Ken not to go down the "DNR" route and now regrets it. Tracy is really angry.

Using the gadget Todd winds Pat up with strange voices and ghostly moans whilst he is undertaking the repairs at the flat.

Rosie has almost fallen off the ladder again - wearing heels is probably not a good idea says Anna but Rosie cannot manage in flat shoes. Faye is sulking upstairs and Rosie offers to have a word with her. Later Anna goes out and Rosie sits with Faye on the sofa and the latter tells Rosie they have been split asunder because Seb is trouble. Rosie extolls the benefits of going out with the bad boys as they are so much more fun. Faye cheers up and pulls her phone out to call Seb.

Billy, Ty and Freddie are sorting through a collection of rubbish to see what can be salvaged. An almost worthless violin is identified and handed to Amy who bargains them down to £20, which she will have tomorrow. Billy notes that she is manipulative. Once home she puts the violin in the middle of the hallway floor and stamps on the neck breaking it. On his later return Ken finds Amy in tears over a broken violin. She has seen one online for £200. And she challenges Ken that he loves Daniel more than her and Tracy because they are not real family. Later Amy tells Liz that Ken has coughed up providing she plays at the Community Centre on Monday. She wanders out the back, phones someone and says they can have their money tomorrow.

In the Rovers Peter reminds Steve that he has already told him about Chloe and her rampant behaviour. Liz does not want to know and tells Peter to get lost. Steve sides with Peter and Liz has to accept it.

A horrified Ken has gone to Peter's flat and he repeats the news to Toyah of Peter's drinking and affair. Initially Toyah finds it hard to believe. Ken then tells her that Peter has borrowed £2k from Chloe.

Later Ken has gone and Peter returns to the flat. Toyah is pretty cold to him. She tells him he could not tell the truth if his life depended on it. She tears into him about Chloe and the money. Then she packs to leave. Peter denies sleeping with Chloe, nor is he drinking. He admits Chloe gave him all the money as tips. He listened to her for the money which they needed. Toyah is having none of it. And Chloe told Ken not her. Toyah asks why Chloe might lie and Peter says he turned Chloe down because he loves Toyah. Toyah knew he would never change. Simon comes in having heard most of the argument outside. Toyah tells Si that Peter has been seeing someone else.

In the Rovers Pat is clearly uncomfortable but refuses to open up to Billy. He does admit that his problems are probably in the Church's top ten. Todd comes in. Spots them in cahoots and reckons that Pat needs the number of a good exorcist. Pat bites back. Todd admits the earlier deception using a transmitter borrowed from Sarah and shows a video of Pat in the flat streamed from Mary's camera. Pat gets even more angry. Billy stops him hitting Todd and Pat leaves. Billy tells Todd to lay off Pat.

Rosie helps Faye with her make up. Seb arrives and Rosie lets him in. Rosie goes out. Seb shows Faye his tattoo on his shoulder, because he wants her as his girlfriend. And he promises never to lamp anyone else.

Peter storms round to see Ken. Ken says the planned baby does not need a lying alcoholic father. Ken does not believe Peter's denials of sleeping with Chloe and drinking, even though Peter swears on his life. Ken refuses to watch Peter repeat his mistakes. Peter says Ken's actions means he has probably lost everything and that Adam was right to get away from here and from Ken. Peter wants nothing more to do with Ken.

Sinead enters the Rovers and joins Daniel. He tells her that Ken is now happy about their relationship and the baby. She needs to talk in private. Later in the flat in private and in tears, Sinead tells Daniel that she's had a miscarriage and she thinks he should go to Oxford. Daniel hugs her, devastated and says he is not going - he wants to be with her.

Tracy enters a darkened number one. Under the photo album she finds Ken's last will and testament. Will she peek?

Roll credits.

Fiery episode. Really enjoying the Barlows at war.

Finally in the words of Mrs Dale I am still very worried about Emily Bishop or perhaps that should be Eileen Derbyshire.

See you next week.
Richard

Written by Jayne Hollinson Directed by Tony Prescott

Daniel is concerned that Sinead is not looking too chipper and is alarmed that she didn't see a doctor when the "miscarriage" happened. He wonders if it might not have been a miscarriage at all but Sinead snaps and insists the baby's gone. She wants him to reconsider going to Oxford. He's appalled that she would suggest that after their baby's just died. She thinks something good has to come out of "this" and we know what she's on about, don't we? He urges her to talk about it, they need to deal with it. She knows he's been looking up on the internet on how to do just that but she aggressively implores that he just stop talking about it, that's what will be the best. That doesn't stop him. He read that women don't always like to talk about it due to feelings of guilt, and assures her it wasn't her fault (oh yes it was) She's taken aback and then leaps up and out the door, accusing him of suffocating her, unable to take any more concern from him.

Phelan is running late, not having slept well last night. Todd starts right in on him, joking with Shona and Billy about Pat's obsession with the supernatural. He really touches a nerve. Phelan growls and throws Todd up against the wall and gets right in his face, about to throttle him. He threatens him and storms out, leaving Todd in a righteous over how dangerous Phelan is. Billy acknowledges that Pat overreacted but he's under a lot of stress. Todd worries about his mother married to a man with a volatile temper.

Toyah has spent the night at Leanne's and moans that she thought Peter loved her. Nick snarls that Leanne thought that when Peter slept with Carla and Carla thought that when Peter slept with Tina. He doesn't change. Simon comes out of his bedroom and catches the last bit and knows they're talking about his father and agrees. Leanne tries to assure Toyah that he probably does love her...in his cheating alcoholic way. Toyah wonders if she put too much pressure on him and is told not to blame herself.

Over at Number 1, Amy is scratching at her violin, badly, while Ken is trying to get through to Peter on the phone, unsuccessfully. He worries that Peter is drunk somewhere. He asks Tracy to go check the flat but she won't. She's no blood relative, remember? Ken can't go because he's waiting for Phelan. She takes off to open the shop. She snipes at him for worrying more about his "real" kids and then stops Amy so that she can go to school. She's worried about an upcoming concert and she gets her digs in, as well, about blood ties. Phelan arrives as Tracy goes upstairs. He apologizes but Ken launches right in, demanding to know why things are taking so long. Latest excuse is the order was filled incorrectly with the wrong colour worktops. He has to leave again to pick up the new ones. Ken is livid and shouts him out the door then screams in frustration about being surrounded by people that always let him down. Both Tracy and Amy have heard that and obviously are taking it to heart and looking obstinately upset.

Peter's not passed out drunk somewhere because he keeps texting Toyah who keeps not replying. Nick snarks that Peter's always been good at talking himself out of trouble. He sarcastically points out that she's not as special or different as she thinks. Peter will wreck her life just like everyone else's.

Liz asks Shona in the cafe if Eileen is back. No, still with Julie apparently. Shona mentions that Phelan is in a bad mood, must not be "getting any". They have a shared joke about that state of affairs. (pun intended) Ken arrives and asks Liz if she's seen Peter and then the same to a downtrodden looking Daniel over in the corner. He tells Daniel he's had a row with Peter. He asks if Sinead ever turned up. He's pleased to hear they're back together but dismayed to hear about the miscarriage. Daniel blames himself for stressing her out.

Outside, Peter is still trying to call Toyah. Ken and Daniel come out and Ken goes over to Peter who knew he'd been round to the flat to check on him but had ignored him. He accuses Ken not of being worried, but of assuming Peter was out cold drunk somewhere. Ken still assumes he was on a bender, the only reason he's not stinking of booze is that vodka doesn't smell. It doesn't matter what Ken tries to say to explain it. Peter shouts that he's not drinking and Ken has ruined his life. He'll even prove that he wasn't drinking!

We're in the flower shop now. Tracy's not pleased to see Ken reporting in on having found Peter. He has come to ask for a truce. He ascertains that Tracy does indeed feel that he doesn't think as much of her and Amy. So what does he do to assure her? Tell her she's self obsessed. Yeah, that'll work. She explains that she's got to struggle on her own but dear little Daniel won't have to worry about having to pay for Oxford. He tells her Daniel has bigger things to worry about but she really doesn't care and that gives him reason to insult her yet again. He insists he's never given up on her even when she tried to sell her own child or killed someone in cold blood. He says he has done more for her than for any of the others but she accuses him of doing it only for Deirdre and now she's gone, all bets are off. He realizes he can't make things up with her and she's not worth the effort.

Peter has gone to see Chloe, looking like a man on a mission. She opens the door and tries to close it on him but he pushes inside. He accuses her of screwing up his life. He says he's been honest with her. She says he's led her on. He pulls her up to try to get her to go to talk to Toyah but she pulls away. She smugly recalls that it was his father that did the telling. She'd do what he wants if he is prepared to beg. On his knees. He's flabbergasted at the sheer cheek of her. He backs away calling her psychotic and leaves.

Toyah picks up her phone and calls someone and says they need to talk.

At the community centre, Amy has arrived for rehearsal and Tracy has come to watch her nervous daughter. She tells Amy that her granddad is not worth worrying about. Luke comes in to say he's got to work late while we see Amy check out some cash in an envelope. Tracy reckons Luke is just trying to get out of the concert. Amy gets a text and tells Tracy she's nipping home to get something.

Daniel has come home to find Sinead looking very peaky and laying on the sofa. She apologizes and then winces at a cramp. She's also feeling sick and he thinks she ought to see a doctor even if it's normal as she protests. She tells him she'll be ok, she's just tired and asks for the duvet.

Amy goes into the living room but Phelan is working in the kitchen. She finds out that Ken is out and asks when he's finished. Not soon enough apparently but she asks him to sand the work tops outside because the dust will bother her asthma. He looks aggravated but goes outside. She leaves a message for someone to tell them the money will be hidden behind the clock on the sideboard, reminding that person where the key is but before she can stash the cash, someone comes in the front door. It's Luke come to fetch her and apologizes that he thinks she's a good player and is brave for playing in public. She can't get rid of him and Ken comes in. Ken tells Amy he will come to the show and she leaves with Luke. Ken sits in his chair and then hears Phelan's sander breaking the peaceful silence.

Toyah buzzes the door to let in someone. Only it's not Peter, it's Toby! She tells him she's left Peter and asks if they can go for a drive to talk because anyone could come in.

Peter's in the cab and sees Toyah and Toby come out and get in his car. He runs to the car but they drive away. He looks shattered.

Ken comes down the stairs, having filled up the kettle from the bathroom sink. He finds Phelan on his own tea break. When Ken finds out Seb didn't turn up, he moans about the job taking even longer with only one person doing the work. Ken gets very shirty, frustrated with everything and everyone and accuses Phelan of ripping him off in so many words. Phelan is getting fed up with Ken, too, and threatens to walk off the job unless Ken pays extra so he can hire spare hands. Oh that doesn't go over well, even more likely Phelan's scamming him, Ken thinks. They row and with all the things Ken slings at him, you can see Phelan isn't too happy about it.

Billy and Todd are having a pint in the pub, Todd still wound up about Phelan. Peter comes in, angry and determined. Nobody behind the bar and so he barges back and grabs a bottle of whiskey for himself, and when Liz comes out and catches him, he throws a twenty down on the bar and leaves with it. Oh dear.

Daniel has called the doctor from the medical centre and she's made a house call. She sits and asks Sinead about her symptoms post-miscarriage. Daniel sits at the end of the sofa listening. Sinead's symptoms are deemed normal but the doctor realizes the event hasn't been confirmed by a doctor. Sinead hums and haws. The doctor wants to arrange a scan just in case. Sinead looks a bit panicked and tells the doctor she knows the baby is gone. She actually had a termination. Daniel looks horrified and lets go of her hand.

The cat is out of the bag. Stay tuned to watch the fallout.

Tvor

Written by Jan McVerry and directed by Tony Prescott

Daniel just about manages to retain his composure enough to thank the doctor. She tells Sinead to look after herself before Daniel shows her out.

The scene shifts to Peter who is at home staring at his, as yet, unopened bottle of whisky. He grabs his mobile, about to call Toyah, then changes his mind.

We return to Sinead and Daniel. They are both so angry and upset with each other they can barely speak. Daniel rushes down the stairs and Sinead follows him into the street. He tells her they would have had a beautiful child, they could have made it work. Sinead cries back that he would have resented them and this is his golden moment of opportunity, quoting the words that Ken said to her. As they continue to shout at each other Chesney appears and overhears Daniel mention the abortion and his final words that, now he knows what Sinead is really like, he's well rid of her. Sinead turns tearfully to Chesney and begs him not to make things any worse.

Daniel goes straight round to see Ken to tell him the awful news that Sinead didn't miscarry as they all thought but went behind his back and had a termination. As Daniel pours his heart out, Ken tries placating him and tells Daniel that it might seem like the end of the world but it doesn't have to be. He adds that, in a few years' time, Daniel might even feel relieved. Daniel tells his father that he sounds just like Sinead. Ken hands Daniel a parcel. He says he bought it when he thought Daniel was going to Oxford so now he might as well have it …

Meanwhile, the audience are gathering at "Weatherfield's Got Talent". Tracy checks her phone and tells Luke, guess what, Ken's not coming. Daniel's got a paper cut, reckons Tracy. She notices Amy looks really nervous, not helped by an over-excited Liz giving her a big hug and telling her to break a leg. Amy slips past to the back of the hall.

Back on the street, Sinead is round at Beth's. While Sinead is busy in the kitchen, Chesney has a whispered conversation with Beth. He asks if she knew Sinead was pregnant. Sensing when he's not wanted he decides to leave. Sinead emerges from the kitchen with a bottle of rum, deciding that the best way to deal with her problems is to get drunk but Beth makes her sit down and talk. Sinead mentions speaking to Ken and then tells Beth that she lied to Daniel about the abortion to avoid hurting him but now he's found out about it he hates her.

We return to the talent show which is about to start. In the audience, Liz tells Steve about Peter coming in to buy the bottle of whisky. Mary, who is bustling around with a clipboard and organising proceedings, goes to tell Tracy that she can't find Amy. Steve uses the opportunity to slip out for a moment. Tracy reckons Amy's upset that her grandfather didn't come.

Phelan goes into the Rovers for a drink and has a word with Billy about Todd. He says that, but for Eileen, he's have knocked him into the middle of next week. Billy promises to mark his card and says he'll make sure Todd is back at work first thing tomorrow morning. Phelan says not to bother – he's about to go round to tell Ken exactly what he can do with his kitchen worktops and that he's another person with no respect. He says "that clown" wants to pay a one star price for a five star service and he's had enough. Phelan is clearly drunk and very angry.

Steve left the talent show in order to go round and see Peter. He's worried he may have drunk the whiskey although the bottle is still full.

Round at Beth's she's got out some bedding so that Sinead can sleep on the sofa. Sinead is now helping herself to a shoe-shaped-bottle of lemon liqueur. Beth settles down next to Sinead and asks her what Ken talked to her about. She realises Sinead got rid of the baby because Ken accused her of trapping Daniel. Sinead is devastated by what she's done and Beth is upset on her behalf.

Luke and Tracy are searching for Amy. As they explore the ginnel we can hear the sound of heavy breathing. Tracy says Ken is waiting inside in case Amy comes back – in other words, she says, he'd rather finish the chapter of his book. Luke suggests Tracy tries Amy's friend on Inkerman Street while he checks out the Red Rec.

Across town Toyah is talking to Toby about her problems with Peter. She says she doesn't know why she's sharing it with him. But Toby's glad she did. He tells her that people like Peter are poison and takes heart from the fact that he was the first person she decided to call. He asks her to come home with him and promises that he'll never mention Peter's name again.

Back on the street Daniel is sitting on the floor in his flat, listening to music and crying. He sees Ken's present and decides to open it. It's a book and we see him read a dedication that Ken has written in the front. We don't see what it says but Daniel's mood suddenly changes. He picks up his phone and leaves a message for Sinead, asking her to call him.

Peter is pouring his heart out to Steve who keeps ignoring the messages coming through form Liz on his phone. Steve offers to talk to Ken but Peter says Ken has even poisoned Simon against him and, no matter what he says, it's always granddad's word that counts. He says he'll never win while Ken's around and that Ken sees him as an inconvenience. Steve finally answers his phone and discovers Amy is missing. He goes off to help in the search and, against his better judgment, leaves Peter alone with the bottle of whisky. Peter is about to take a swig but his willpower wins out and he smashes the untouched bottle on the kitchen counter.

Round at number one, Ken is listening to a dark piece of classical music, deep in thought. There's a knock at the door. It's Sinead who starts banging frantically before walking away. Ken ignores the banging and takes a swig of his drink. Eccles is scratching at the back door. Ken picks up the kettle and starts to take it upstairs to fill it from the bathroom sink. As he does so, he hears knocking at the back door and calls out, asking who's there.

Outside Beth comes out of her house. She bumps into Luke who wants to know if she's seen Amy. She's about to knock on the door of number one and tells him she's looking for Daniel. He says he'll save her wasting her time because she won't find him there.

The scene moves inside number one where the music is still playing but Ken is no longer climbing the stairs. He's lying unconscious at the bottom by the front door.

Tracy is standing in the street outside Preston's petals, staring into the darkness, when Amy appears. Tracy is hugely relieved to see her and tells Amy they had to start the concert without her. She calls Luke to let him know Amy's been found.

Eccles is whimpering next to Ken who is still lying unconscious.

In the Rovers Liz asks Steve if Amy had her coat on. "Yes, she did," replies Steve as he sees Amy coming through the door. Liz tells her by rights she should be cross but she hugs her granddaughter in relief.

Across the street, Toby is waiting while Toyah packs her bags. She looks as though she's having second thoughts and says Peter needs her. Toby tells her he and his children need her and if she wants to save anybody then make it someone who deserves saving. Toyah tells him that Peter is and she's the only person who can do it. She says she's sorry, she didn't mean to mess with his head. Toby tells her to delete his number and next time she needs her ego massaging she should ring someone else because they're done.

Sinead arrives on Daniel's doorstep and tells him she got his message. But Daniel says sorry, he's going out and hurries off up the street. They meet Beth coming the other way. Daniel tells Beth that Sinead needs looking after and he can't do it as he has somewhere he needs to be. Sinead calls after Daniel that she's not a wicked person but she wasn't thinking straight. Beth yells that he's as bad as he dad and then hugs a tearful Sinead.

Daniel lets himself into number 1 where he finds Ken lying on the floor. Phelan is standing over him. Daniel asks what's going on. Phelan claims he came round to tell Ken where to stick his job. He says he let himself in through the back door ten seconds ago and found Ken lying there. He says he must have had another stroke and fallen down the stairs. Daniel calls an ambulance and shouts at Phelan to check Ken's pulse. He's alive but still unconscious.

The scene moves outside to a street where we see a shadowy looking figure wearing a hat with his collar pulled up. It's Adam looking very disheveled. We see him board a bus.

Back on the street Peter emerges from his flat carrying a bag just as Toyah comes along. She asks where he's going and notices he's cut his hand. But they're interrupted by the arrival of the paramedics at number 1. Everyone starts to gather as Ken is brought out of the house and taken to the waiting ambulance. Phelan says he found him and he thinks he's had another stroke. Tracy volunteers to go with Ken in the ambulance. "He'll pull through, won't he?" Peter asks Daniel. "Of course he will, he has to," Daniel replies.

Karen

We open in intensive care, with Ken, unconscious, hooked up to machines, while Tracy, Amy, Peter and Luke sit outside the room, looking worried. Tracy wants to know if the hospital staff know about the DNR order, but Luke reckons it'll be on his records. Then he kisses Tracy and goes off back to work. Tracy then tells Peter that she's had a text from Adam, he's getting on the next flight from Canada, but now he's not picking up his phone. Then we see Adam standing outside the hospital, replying to Tracy's text asking where he is. 'Just landed' he writes.

Daniel is just leaving Ken's house with a bag, when he bumps into Phelan, who asks if they know yet what happened. Daniel doesn't know, he assumes it might have been another stroke.

Sinead crosses the Street and sees Daniel, they glance at each other and continue on.

Johnny and Jenny are walking to work. She's on the phone to Radio Weatherfield fixing up an interview regarding her mastectomy bra, and tells them that councilor Metcalfe and her daughter Rosie (who used to be a glamour model) will also be available. Johnny points out that she's playing with fire there, and she hasn't even asked them yet! Just then Sally comes out of the Kabin so Jenny rushes over and ropes her in.

Brian is sitting down to breakfast in the cafe, and moaning about that fact that there is no black pudding on his plate. Alex, who has suddenly appeared in an apron, so is obviously working, tells Roy that his Auntie Cathy is coming back today and needs a taxi from the station. Roy tells him to go and ask Tim, who is also in the cafe.

Kevin is in the cafe too, telling Anna that he's been worrying a lot of the last few months, he's sure he's losing weight. She scoffs, but then he tells her he's losing business too, a cab company they had a contract with has gone bust.

Sinead comes into the cafe, and Roy asks if she's been to see Ken. "Why would I do that?" she snaps. He points out that she knows Daniel, so she calms down a bit and tells him she hasn't. Roy then goes on to ask her to give Ken his best regards, if she does go in to see him. Sinead gets very snappy then, and says she has no plans to go and see him, and wonders why he's talking to her as if she has. She turns around and walks out.

Toyah and Leanne are sitting in the flat having coffee. Toyah says there's Toby who is decent and reliable, but who does she want? The bloke who is wrong in every way! She goes on to say he's been very jumpy and edgy, she's never seen him like that before. Then she tells Leanne how she found the broken whisky bottle in the bin. Leanne is worried that Peter's back on the bottle and suggests Toyah comes to stay for while until it's all sorted out.

Cathy is getting out of the taxi, Alex takes her bag, Yasmeen welcomes her home, and Brian comes along. Cathy looks embarrassed, but produces a bag, she's brought Brian a present to make up for 'kebab-gate'. He opens the bag and produces a pair of red striped socks.

Anna takes some butties over to Kevin at the garage. She asks him how bad things really are, and he tells her that he's not sure he'll be able to carry on paying the mortgage. Sophie and Rosie come in at that point, and hear him say this, and stop and listen. He says he thinks he could be looking at bankruptcy.

Sinead is back at work, looking nervous and worried. Johnny asks if she's ok, and also asks if there's any news of Ken. She says there isn't, that she knows of. He asks again if she's ok, and then suggests that if she's under the weather she should go home.

Daniel has arrived back at the hospital, and just then Adam turns up, going along with the story that he's just returned from Canada. The doctor then appears and tells them that Ken hasn't had another stroke, and they're waiting for a second opinion as to what it was. As the family go in to see Ken, the doctor goes to the desk and asks for the phone number for Weatherfield police.

The family are round Ken's bedside, wondering how he managed to fall downstairs. Amy thinks he might have tripped over one of Phelan's tools, he's always leaving them lying around. Not knowing whether or not he can hear them, Tracy tells him they're all there and they love him.

Over in the office at Underworld, Johnny tells Aidan and Eva about Sally's forthcoming interview with the radio. Apparently Sally has lots of followers on social media, but he doesn't know how to find her. Eva takes his phone and gets the page up, but then they're shocked at some of the abusive comments that have been left.

Yasmeen is in the cafe when Cathy comes in and tells her she's been going through her mail and she's found 2 free theatre tickets for this evening, she asks Yasmeen if she'd like to accompany her. Yasmeen can't, but turns and sees Brian at the counter so suggests that he might like to go. He's only too pleased to step into the breach, and says he'll order a taxi. Anna and Yasmeen smile broadly, as Cathy protests that they are just friends.

Adam and Amy meet up on their own in the hospital corridor. She asks why he hasn't been answering her calls, but he says he's been busy. She asks if he went into Ken's to get the money. "Why would I do that? You told me it wasn't there," he says. She says she didn't know if he'd got her messages. He says if he'd been there he would have called an ambulance. Then he tells her to delete the messages they exchanged last week.

Rosie is on the phone telling someone she'll get back to them tomorrow. Sophie asks who it was, but she won't say at first, and then says that the modeling agency have offered her a shoot – but it's glamour modeling. Sophie is aghast, until Rosie tells her the fee is two thousand pounds. Sophie is still against it, she points out that it goes against everything Sally is campaigning for, Rosie is worried that Kevin could lose everything and although it was the darkest time of her life, this time it isn't about her.

Phelan is standing on the cobbles staring at Ken's house. Johnny comes along and wonders if Ken had another stroke. "You never know when your time is coming," he says. Phelan tells him you have to live for the day, and walks off.

Toyah, Leanne and Simon arrive at the hospital. Peter tells them that Ken hasn't had a stroke, but at the moment he doesn't know what it was. Toyah is all stroppy with him and tells him she found the broken whisky bottle. He swears he didn't touch a drop. She then wants to know where he was going with the bag. Just then Leanne notices the policewoman that investigated Maria arrive and go to Ken's bedside. Peter then decides he has to rush outside for a ciggie, and once out of sight of the sisters leans against the wall, breathing heavily.

Jenny and Johnny are leaving the factory, and she comments that he's been quiet. He tells her the business with Ken has upset him, it shows what life can throw at a person at any minute. Jenny bushes off his fears, he's at least 20 years younger than Ken, but anyway, she points out, they have to live their lives to the full. He stops her then, and suggests that they bring the wedding forward to July! At first she's horrified, good places get booked up a year in advance, but he hands her his credit card and tells her to put her cunning little mind to good use. She's delighted and hugs him.

Brian is suited and booted, getting ready to leave Roy's flat. Roy asks where he's going and he lies and tells him he's going to a talk on carbon emissions. Roy thinks that sounds very interesting and wants to go along with him. Brian then has to put him off, saying it's fully booked and it would be a waste of his time.

The Websters are sitting round the meal table. Sally tells Rosie about the radio interview and how they've asked for her to be there too, as someone who used to be a glamour model and then saw the light. Rosie looks panicked, but Sally doesn't seem to notice. "I'll say yes then, shall I?" she says.

Over at the hospital, the police have called the family together. The detective tells them that Ken had bruises on his wrists and they can tell he'd been struck on the head with a blunt instrument. He didn't have a stroke, the evidence shows that he fell after an altercation with someone. Someone tried to kill him, and they're going to find out who.

Anne Logan.

We begin tonight's episode outside the cafe, where Todd stops Billy to tell him someone tried to kill Ken. He thinks it must have been Phelan, who "has a screw loose." Phelan had the motive, the means and a very nasty temper. "Mum could be married to a murderer."

There's a little knot of people outside the pub - it's as close as they can get to No 1 because of the police tape. Audrey hurries over and asks if there's any news. There isn't and she, Yasmeen, Liz and Luke discuss Ken's fall. Did he disturb a burglar? Audrey mutters that it might have been an inside job. After all, at least one person in that house has already been convicted of murder. Oops, too late. She can't take it back and Luke stomps off, disgusted with her. Phelan arrives and tells the police he has to get in to get his tools. They tell him it's a crime scene. He can't understand that. Didn't Ken have another stroke? "No," says the blabbermouth constable. "This is an attempted murder investigation."

Ken's been intubated, though last we saw he was breathing on his own. He's also in a private room, not in intensive care. Sigh. You can't get the NHS facts right these days... While Peter and Daniel sit by his bed, Amy and Adam talk in the corridor. She says she's deleted all their texts and won't say a word. "You do know it wasn't me who pushed Grandad, right?" asks Adam. The lady detective comes in and says she needs to interview everyone who had access to the house.

Sally's gargling and has been doing some voice exercises ready for her radio interview. Tim points out it's local radio. She isn't singing in the Albert Hall.

Rosie tells Sophie that her agent has upped the modeling money by a thousand pounds. She talks about how the money could help Kevin.

Toyah's stayed over with Leanne and Nick. Leanne says she knows what Peter's like when he's drunk and she saw no sign of him drinking again when she saw him at the hospital. Toyah can't understand why "that woman" would say he was drinking again. Leanne says Peter's a complex man and maybe Chloe wasn't telling the truth. Nick's been listening to all this with a fed-up look on his face. It seems he's had enough and he says he's taking Oliver for a walk, even though he'd only just got him settled.

Daniel is being interviewed. The detectives tell him Ken's watch broke in the fall so they know exactly what time it happened. Daniel says he last saw Ken just after seven. He'd gone to talk to Ken about Sinead's abortion and he'd been angry but Ken helped him look to the future. When he left, Daniel says, he took a tram to the Quays and went for a walk to clear his head. He got back just after eight. Yes, he did buy a ticket but it's not in his pockets. It might be at home. He saw Sinead and was angry with her. He went back to No 1, opened the door and Pat Phelan was there, just standing over Dad. "He didn't even call an ambulance."

Tracy is also being interviewed. Of course Luke was with her as they both searched for Amy. Just after they found her, Tracy saw Ken being loaded into an ambulance. No, of course Ken hasn't got any enemies. He's a pensioner. He's always at the library or taking the dog for a walk. They ask her about the row Ken had with Phelan that morning.

Peter tells the detectives he was in his flat watching TV - some kind of news programme. No, he can't remember what was on. He was in the middle of some relationship problems and very close to going back to the booze. He can't think of anyone who would want to push Ken down the stairs. The detective asks who else they should talk to. Pat Phelan? He was found standing over Ken at the foot of the stairs.

"No comment," says Adam to every question. Yes, even though the rest of the family have been very helpful. No, he won't say how he got those bruises. No comment. No comment. No comment.

Ken's fall isn't the only topic of conversation in the pub. While Audrey tells Liz that Ken's covered in bruises, Yasmeen asks Cathy about her date with Brian. Cathy didn't really understand the play. Yasmeen thinks she sounds smitten but Cathy says she's just having a nice time. Nick tells Leanne that Peter seems to be all she and Toyah ever talk about. Everywhere he turns, there's Peter. Leanne protests. She's not at all worried about Peter but she is worried about Toyah. Sophie tells Ken she and Rosie heard him talking about his money worries and now Rosie's thinking of doing a modeling job to get some money. Kevin says firmly that she's not doing it.

In the factory, Alya has a sore shoulder and Fiz sits her down for a massage. They talk to Jenny about the radio interview. She mentions she's had almost no time for wedding planning. She can't seem to find the right dress anywhere. Fiz points out she's not exactly stuck for dressmaking talent in this very room.

Roy presses Brian for more details of the carbon emissions talk. Brian seems strangely reluctant to give him information. At a table, Sally and Kevin try to talk Rosie out of the modeling job. Sally points out she can't go on the radio and talk about the importance of a positive body image if Rosie's going to do this. "I know you mean well, but you've got to start respecting yourself and your body."

Tracy tells Luke to say they were together all the time while searching for Amy. She's sure the police think she did it.

Alya gives Fiz a cake to thank her for the shoulder massage. Sean mutters that a proper masseuse gets fifty quid an hour, not just a cream horn and a pat on the back. Sinead's not having tea with the others but is sitting on the stairs. Beth suggests she go to the hospital to see Daniel and Ken - it might stop any speculation that Sinead had a reason to push Ken down the stairs.

Jenny and Sally have their radio interview in the factory office. Sally talks about being in remission for seven years and how important it is to continue to be tested for cancer. She's just had a mammogram recently and it came back clear. Tim and Rosie listen to the programme from the cafe.

Cathy goes into the cafe to find Brian and ask him whether he wants to see a film. As Roy comes to the counter just behind Brian, he seems to change his mind and tells Cathy he's got too much on.

Toyah lets herself into the flat. Peter demands to know whether she was sneaking in in the hope she'd catch him drinking. He apologises straight away, blaming the stress of being at the hospital all day. He admits he was thinking of running away. Toyah tells him she needs to know what's going on.

In the hospital, Sinead arrives and Daniel asks her to sit beside him at the bedside. He tells her nothing else matters now and holds her hand.

Phelan's at home with Billy and Todd when the police knock on the door.

Sally's at home when the phone goes. It's Weatherfield General. Yes, she did have a mammogram about ten days ago. "What kind of mistake? I'm sorry, I don't understand. Are you saying my cancer's come back?" Yep, delivering that sort of news by phone is far superior to delivering it in person. Well done, Weatherfield General.

Phelan's in the back of a police car. He's just been arrested for the attempted murder of Ken.

I can't help thinking the last few scenes should have been in a different order. Surely Sally's phone call should have been the last scene to keep the tension going?

Until next time...
The End

Margaret Carr

Good evening. Sorry about the typos last time around. I was in a hurry to finish before heading off on holiday. I am back from Cyprus. Definitely a little browner and can report that Cyprus is worthy of a visit. We stayed in Paphos on the western edge of the island. May well return in a couple of years so that we can see a little more.

Over to Weatherfield. This is episode 9133. It was written by Joe Turner and it was directed by Tony Prescott. The copyright remains the property of ITV to whom many thanks.

This episode opens with a dumbstruck and distressed Sally holding her mobile phone and contemplating what the future might hold.

We then switch to the Street and see a police car rolling to a halt alongside Tracy outside the salon. They do not respond to her asking if Pat has been arrested as they need to talk about something else in private.

Peter is in his flat with R'Toyota who is hearing him tell her that he was upset by seeing her in Toby's car; things were going badly for him - Chloe going psycho, Ken thinking he was having an affair and his one good thing - Toyah - back with her ex. But he did not actually drink anything. He reckons they are both sick of his pathetic excuses. She says she believes him, although no-one else does. She tells him he is a good man, or at least she thinks he wants to be a good man. She notes he denied two temptations - drink and Chloe. They hold hands.

Back at the Metcalfe's Tim comes downstairs and finds Sally who tells him that the hospital called and that there has been a mistake with the test result. It was not clear and the cancer has come back and she has to go into hospital tomorrow. Tim moves to comfort her.

Aidan catches Fiz, Eva and Jenny discussing the latter's wedding dress in "dirty white". Aidan tells Jenny off as Johnny walks up behind him and tells Aidan it was his idea to get everyone involved. Johnny suggests that one of the girls should be a style consultant (alert where is Mary and her file?). To Fiz's annoyance she chooses Eva because she likes her style. Eva is shocked by this (after all Aidan does not like Jenny one bit). After hesitating Eva accepts. (Poor Fiz - why does she keep missing out on stories?).

R'Toyota is ordering pizza via Peter for the Barlow family - Adam, Daniel, Sinead and Amy. No sign of Tracy - but she suddenly appears through the door. Pat has been arrested she announces and get her a margarita! Meanwhile Pat at the station phoning Todd saying he must pass a message to Eileen. Todd refuses to do anything and Pat has wasted his one call. Pat tells Todd the police think that he did it and Todd points out that he does have a nasty temper. Pat claims an alibi - he was at Luke's working but no-one saw him so there is no proof of the alibi. Todd goes to end the call but wishes Pat good luck. (I wonder if Todd still had the mobile camera running?).

Roy enters the kebab shop looking for change. Gemma goes in the back and Cathy tells Roy about her trip to the theatre last night with Brian. Cathy lets him know what Brain thought about the play. Roy grasps the important information that she went with Brian and Gemma provides the change. Cathy knows she has "put her foot in it".

Pat is explaining his alibi in an interview. They ask about how the kitchen job was going. Pat lies. He is asked about an argument with Ken. He admits that he was late and so a few words were said. In fact Pat had gone to Ken's to tell him he was quitting the job, but then he was found standing over the body (has anyone questioned Eccles yet?).

Back at Number One Daniel announces that he was going to pop down to Oxford for a few days to see if he can get his place re-instated and he tells Sinead that she can come too, if she wants. Apparently she doubts she can get the time off. And Adam is heading back to Canada. Peter lays down the law and insists they all stay in Weatherfield until they know if Ken is better. Tracy agrees.

Todd is watching a video of Pat at work in Luke's flat. He almost deletes it then changes his mind.

Fiz tells Ty that she is going to do an evening course in massage therapy, three nights a week so that her hands can earn them some money. £50 an hour once qualified. Ty struggles to believe that she can earn that much. And of course they need to buy a proper table and new towels and scented oils. Ty wonders if possibly some customers might misunderstand the services being offered? Fiz is open mouthed. She tells him to take his top off.

Tim heard Sally on the radio earlier. He knows she beat it once and she can do it again because she is strong. Sally replies that every year she pauses until the test comes back clear - but this time. Tim says that hospitals make mistakes all the time and perhaps this time her test has been mixed up. She has started crying and she needs to go and pack a bag for the next day. Sophie and Rosie burst in and Sally plays them a recording of her call from the hospital telling her that the cancer is back. At the very end of the call the woman on the other end of the phone can be heard giggling. It was all a prank - someone's idea of a very sick joke.

After the break we are still at the Metcalfe's as Sally is handed a much needed brew. The woman must be a nut case. Pay as you go untraceable phone. Sophie wants to report it to the police.

Roy and Brian are eating dinner. Roy asks him why he lied. He knows Brian was not at a talk on carbon emissions but at a play. Brian admits that he wanted to spare Roy's feelings. Roy said that he enjoyed the peace the previous evening and if Brian wishes to go you with Cathy then that is fine with him. Roy sees no reason why Cathy and Brian cannot be friends. Brian agrees not to hide it from Roy in the future.

Todd has taken the recording to the police station with the evidence supporting Pat's alibi. Todd says that the recording was linked to a prank. The police woman is not amused that Pat is off the hook.

At the Barlow residence Tracy is necking a beer from a bottle. She thinks that without Pat she would be prime suspect; the camera lingers on Adam as she says this. She also points out that Peter has form - even if Rob did the deed. Adam tries to stop the fighting. Amy looks shifty. Tracy goes to get some fresh air. Amy looks even shiftier.

In the factory office Jenny and Eva are discussing the wedding. Johnny announces he is off to the pub! Jenny suddenly turns mischief maker and suggests to Eva that if Aidan popped the question then they would be, like, related. Aidan asks her to keep her nose out their private life. Jenny says that they all know one another's secrets! Jenny continues the wind up. Perhaps he has been looking for the perfect engagement ring?

Brian comes into the kebab shop and asks if Cathy has changed her mind about the pictures and relates that he has been given the OK by Roy to see Cathy as friends. Gemma forces Brian to buy a kebab so he can talk to on-duty Cathy. Brian and Cathy smirk at each other.

Fiz is massaging Ty with olive oil - he smells like a chip. He admits it all feels looser when she stops. He agrees it will help pay the bills. And they have a few minutes more before the kids return.

Todd is sitting in the Rovers when Pat comes in and sits down. Pat offers him a drink. He admits that Todd got him off an attempted murder charge and he wonders why. Apparently Billy has helped Todd develop his moral compass. Pat admits that he owes Todd one. Todd demurs and insists they leave things the way they were. Todd says he does not like Pat. he does not trust Pat. And he is watching Pat. Pat says a simple OK and departs.

Tim has reported the hoax but does not sound hopeful of anything happening. Tim is now seeing all the online abuse which Sal has been suffering. Sal does not want the bully to have the last word so has been replying. Tim insists it has to stop. Tim tells her she must delete the account. The woman phoned her - she will know where Sally lives. He reckons it is time they started fighting back.

Peter wants to know why Adam is so keen to head to Canada. Adam and Peter argue. Toyah tells Peter to leave it. Pat arrives - he says he has been released as he was not there - and there was CCTV to prove it. He hates the idea that someone tried to do Ken in. Peter answers his phone - it is the hospital and Ken is recovering. They will bring him around in the morning. Pat chuckles and says that maybe they will now find out who tried to kill him. The camera shoots around the room - Sinead, Daniel, Adam, Toyah, a very shifty looking Amy and from under his dark eyebrows Peter.

Roll credits.

Last week I said "Fiery episode. Really enjoying the Barlows at war". Well I feel exactly the same this week. And although not in this episode what a great contribution Bill Roache is making, first the stroke, now tripping the light fantastic down the stairs. Meanwhile just about the entire family has a motive - my money is actually on Eccles. Great plotting.

Jenny is obviously in full Aidan wind up mode - I reckon he could be dangerous so hope she knows what she is doing.

And good to see some screen time for Ty and Fiz. Hope they eventually get their money problems sorted.

And for once it is drama and not comedy for the Metcalfes. So great to see another aspect of those two - Sally in particular is great with the dramatic stories when she gets them.

Finally in the words of Mrs Dale I am still very worried about Emily Bishop or perhaps that should be Eileen Derbyshire.

See you next week.

Richard

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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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