Monday (3168, Monday 31 December 1990)
It's New Year's Eve. It's dark already but not too late yet. Ken arrives home on the bus (oh right, he sold his heap to Curly didn't he) with a bag of groceries, a baguette and bottle of champagne peeking out of the top.
Sally and Kevin are whispering over the head of their sleeping baby girl. Sally is fretting about many new-mother things like what if she rolls over onto her face and smothers and do you think there was something wrong since she had been crying ever since they brought her home until now. Kevin assures her all babies cry, the baby will be fine and so will they. But a knock on the door, signaling the next in a stream of guests, wakes the baby and she cries. (she really does, there's a shot of the baby and the sound is definitely coming from her mouth!)
Phil and Deirdre are driving up the approach to the airport (and it looks like he's driving and she's in the back????). Deirdre is very much looking forward to Midnight in Montmartre and to the new year. She can't think of a better way to put an end to the mess of a year she's just got through.
Ken's got the table set and a casserole cooking. He's even got a candle on the table. He keeps it in the warming oven and peers impatiently out the window. Can't be waiting for Deirdre, can he? Because she and Phil are strolling through the airport, not a stick of luggage, not even an overnight bag so they must have checked it. Odd that. Nope, it's Tracy's he's been waiting for. She is late coming from Graham's which causes a slight spark of fatherly jealousy (that first boyfriend, you know). He's made lasagna verde for her which she looks at dubiously but sits down and complements how nice the table looks. He serves the lasagna, salad and coca cola, lights the candle and they get stuck in.
Audrey wants Alma to come home with her for New Years but Alma is determined to be on her own. Don't cry for me, Audrey Roberts... Alma assures Audrey she's done crying over Mike. Just as Audrey is leaving, though, Mike arrives and Audrey lets him know how much cheek she thinks he has for showing his face round there. Alma ushers her out, takes a deep breath and turns around to face him. Not totally unexpected, this visit. Mike tries to apologize for his treatment of her, and attempts to explain but as we all know, that only makes matters worse and Alma is determined to stay businesslike. Mike explains that he's selling his flat and moving in with Jackie but there's still some of Alma's things there. He wants to arrange to bring it by. Fine. If there's nothing else... He makes one more attempt to explain but she's having none of it and sees him out bravely. She has a lot of grace and dignity, does Alma. I admire that.
Rita, Emily and Mavis discuss the tradition of seeing New Years in with friends. A sign of man's eternal optimism, Mavis thinks but Rita thinks it might just be an excuse to drink yourself silly. Emily resolves to get out more next year, sometimes difficult for a woman on her own. Rita can relate. Emily therefore, invites Rita to an afternoon tea dance tomorrow! I don't think that's quite Rita's ... er... cup of tea, if you will and she tells Emily she'll see how she's fixed. Emily leaves and Mavis chuckles, wondering how Rita is going to get out of that one. Alf comes in as Emily leaves and they chat about the upcoming events. Alf has a little fun and throws a bomb out to be gossiped over, but he isn't let out of the shop until he fesses up the details. What d'you mean Mike left Alma and has moved in with his lady boss????
Tea is done. Ken and Tracy clear up. She spies the champagne he's bought for later but it gets uncomfortable for her when he suggests they take it across the road to share with her mother. She hedges and he keeps on making alternative suggestions all involving Deirdre until Tracy has to tell him she's already gone out... to Paris. He realizes with whom and he snaps, totally losing control. Did Tracy know? She didn't tell him?! She protests that she's not a spy. So Tracy doesn't mind that her mother's gone on a dirty weekend with some spiv? Doesn't mind that her mother sleeps with every man who knocks at the front door? (No, that's YOU, Ken!) He rants and raves about all he's given up, where he has to live and how people all talk about him. All the humiliation! Tracy backs up and cries that she's here for him. But he's lost the one he loves, he doesn't want her, he want's Deirdre!! Wrong! Tracy turns and runs out with Ken realizing what he's said. (and there was an awful lot of "I" in that rant, typically) Ken runs after her but she gets in the house first, observed by a concerned Emily and Percy. Ken tells them it's something and nothing, just a row. He knocks on the door furiously and she does let him in as she hangs up the phone.
He implores Tracy to forgive him, he didn't mean it that way, it's just that he loved Deirdre so much and he just snapped when he heard about Paris. She accuses him of caring only for himself and he apologizes profusely but she flings Wendy Crozier in his face as evidence that he left them first, leaving her to watch her mother cry. She knew what was going on in spite of them trying to hide it from her. He thinks she's going to Graham's and more harsh words are flung on both sides when she cries that he's lost everything because of his own actions and he accuses her of being just like her mother. He tries to prevent her from leaving the house but when she says she's not going to Graham's, she's going to Debbie's, he says he's sorry, he's sorry. But she accurately and with contempt accuses him of only being sorry for himself and pushes past him. He's crushed when she uses the painful "you're not my real father and why don't you just leave us alone forever!" as she leaves the house.
We next (but it's after the normal half time break) see him talking to Debbie's mother on the phone, ascertaining that she arrived ok and gives his permission for Tracy to spend the night. Best under the circumstances. He wanders into the living room, looking dazed. He picks up a photo of Deirdre and takes the bottle of gin out of the kitchen cupboard and pours himself a drink.
Emily is admiring a quiet Rosie and giving a silver coloured 50p coin for good luck. Emily leaves and the Brennans arrive.
Back to the good stuff. Ken leafs through photo albums of vacation snaps from happier times, bottle by his elbow. There's a knock on the door and he startles. He gets up, turns on the telly and goes to answer it. It's Emily, a bit concerned about Tracy's earlier upset. Ken, slightly groggy from the grog, says Tracy is fine and inside watching telly. That's all the argument was over anyway, the telly. Emily seems somewhat satisfied but asks how he is and he lies and says he's getting a cold. She wishes him a Happy New Year and leaves. He closes the door in relief and locks it.
In the Rovers the party is underway. The Roberts and Brennans are sharing a drink at one table and Rita and Mavis are sitting at another discussing tea dances. Mavis is very condescending, hoping it doesn't become a habit and calling Emily an old maid. (some friend!) Rita impatiently points out that Emily is a widow and after all, being married is not the prime goal in life for every woman!
Kevin and Sally are watching an old western on telly. Sally is almost asleep but doesn't want to go to bed yet, it's only 10:30! Kevin urges her to go while she can because she'll be up with the baby soon enough so she wishes him a Happy New Year and goes upstairs.
Back at the Rovers, the Wiltons and Barnes are now sharing a booth with Rita over with the Roberts and Brennans. Audrey wants to go fetch Alma but Alf considers she'll probably be in bed now anyway.
Not quite. Alma's having a drink and a ciggy and watching some fiddler on tv. She decides to take to her bed, bringing the bottle with her, turning off the lights but leaving the telly on for noise.
Ken is now looking at older photos, one of his own immediate family, all of whom are now dead except him (and even that's debatable at times!) He gazes at a picture of his wedding day with Valerie and one of Val and the twins as sounds of gaiety filter through the walls from the pub next door. He takes his glass out back and looks up to the night sky as a plane flies over and as tears stream down his face, he hears echoes of many different voices from his past accusing him of many things; his faults, his nothing life, things he's lost and people he's lost. Back inside he splashes water on his face and decides to put the photo albums away. As he is doing so, he sees a bottle of paracetamol (100mg) in a drawer in the buffet. He slowly picks it up and sits down at the table thoughtfully as we cut to joyous faces counting down the seconds to 1991. Happy faces, cheers, kisses, juxtaposed with shaky hands opening the bottle and pouring the white pills out into a mound on the dark tablecloth. Auld Lang Syne is heard through the wall as the credits roll across the picture of the pills on the table. Fade to the Corrie closing theme.
Writer - KEN BLAKESON Director - BRIAN MILLS
Tuesday (3169, Wednesday 2 January 1991)
New Year's celebrations are well underway in the Rovers. Gaiety and mirth abound as the patrons sing and joke their way through the evening. Juxtapose this against the scene next door. Driven to the edge of despair, Ken is on the verge of ending his own life. Before him on the table, lie the mounds of pills he's emptied from their bottle, and a half bottle of whiskey. Lining 12 of the pills up in a perfect triangle, he contemplates them dully before taking one and downing it with a gulp of the whiskey.
The crowd are singing "Daisy" now and Phyllis joyously informs Percy she has "a feeling in her bones" that this will be their year. Percy puts it down to her sciatica coming on! Through the noise, Alec mentions something they need and Bet offers to go out and get it. (I'm not sure what it is she's going for or where she hopes to get it on New Year's Eve but what's important is that she's going.) Kimberly notes the time (almost midnight) and tells Curly "Mummy will have a fit" if she's not home soon. Curly coaxes her to stay - no one goes home early at New Year's! The crowd bursts into "Auld Lang Syne" and from without the pub, Bet starts down the street. She notices the lights on at No1 and stops to have a listen at the door. As Des and Steph stumble from the pub, Bet asks if it appears to them there's someone inside the house. Cracking on that Bet's lost, Des blithely answers that the pub is next door and the carefree Barneses proceed towards home.
Within the house, Ken is just about to take his second pill when there comes a soft knock at the door. He ponders momentarily what to do, but hearing nothing further, he swallows the pill, followed by another swig of whiskey. Bet has stolen around to the alleyway and now lets herself in the back door. Just as Ken is taking the third pill, she appears in the doorway. Jolted at seeing her, Ken stares at her in stunned silence.
She asks if he's on his own. He answers that he needed to be "How many?" she demands. "alone" "How many?" she repeats. Indignant now, he tells her it's none of hers or anyone's business. She marches straight to the phone and rings for an ambulance. "Three" he admits, "only three" defeat in his voice. Hanging up the phone, she returns to the table. "Why?" she asks softly. Sitting down beside him now, she repeats the question. "It's the best thing" he answers uncertainly. "It's never the best thing!" she replies. He tells her she doesn't understand. "Try me". Removing her coat, she settles in to listen to his troubles, assuring him she's not in a rush. Ken apologises for what he perceives must be an "embarrassing situation" for her. She dismisses the notion but excuses herself to go and call Alec to prevent him sending out a search party.
In the Rovers, Alec takes the call but is left confused by Bet's cryptic words. She won't tell him what's up, only that she'll see him later. As she returns to Ken, he states self-deprecatingly that he's made a mess of even this. "You looked to be doing a good job of it when I came in." she asserts. "What else have you messed up -- Deirdre?" "Deirdre -- and everything" he says flatly. "Not everything!" she returns. "I'm 51", he says ruefully, "What have I got left in the world?" Removing himself from the table, he buries his face in his hands and weeps bitterly. "I'm so alone", he sobs. Following him from the table, she embraces him from behind, resting her head on his shoulder. "You're not - I'm here now", she comforts. "Sorry, I should never have involved you", he sniffs, trying to recover his composure. "I involved meself", she whispers.
As they return to the table, she tells him that she was once very near to doing the same thing. It was a long time ago, she explains, when she believed, as he does now, that she'd lost everything. "You were young - you could start again", Ken counters. "So can you, Ken", she says firmly. Why do this in Deirdre's house, she wonders? What does it matter, he replies. Did he want to make sure Deirdre would be the one to find him? "Why can't she forgive me?" he asks searchingly. "I forgave her!" Bet replies softly, "I daresay she can But you're not asking her for forgiveness, you're asking her to love you. You're trying to *force* her to love you! Camping out on her doorstep monitoring her comings and goings and now this"
"You love Alec" states Ken, rhetorically. "True", she agrees. "Suppose he were to turn his back on you?" Bet admits she might end up doing the same thing - "But I'd be wrong". She doesn't begin to know *why* Alec loves her, but it's a miracle in her life she would have missed out on if she'd done what she set out to do all those years ago! She tells him that he might love Deirdre, but Deirdre will love who she wants - as we all do
The Wiltons are home now and happily tipsy from their evening of celebrations. Derek announces his New Year's resolution - he's going to be more decisive from now on! "I'm too easily influenced by other people's opinions!" he asserts. "Oh, no - no, I don't think you are", states Mavis. "No? Perhaps not, then" he replies. Mavis tells him that she's made a resolution as well. She's going to be more understanding when he's got business dealings with Angela. Derek is pleased and touched to hear it and the happy couple revel in their newfound path to perfection.
Across at No1, Ken is telling Bet that Tracy won't be able to forgive what he said to her tonight. Bet disagrees - it'll all be forgotten by morning. "You'd never have imagined 12 months ago, how you'd be feeling tonight - would you?" she asks. "You don't know what the next 12 months will bring! Look forward, not back", she counsels. He readily agrees he doesn't want to go back. She tells him encouragingly that he should carry on and see what turns up. "You must think I'm pathetic", he says lifelessly. "You've had a very hard year - you should be glad it's over", she returns. Feeling her mission is accomplished, she rises to leave, asking him what he intends to do. He supposes he'll tidy up and head back to his flat. He offers his thanks weakly but Bet tells him to save it until he means it. She pats his shoulder and plants a light kiss on his head before going out the way she came in, through the back. Alone once more, Ken casts his eyes downward and slowly starts aligning the pills, again in a perfect triangle.
Next door, in the dark stillness of the Rovers, Bet, with her coat still on, crouches against the adjoining wall and listens for movement from No1. Alec comes through from the back to help himself to a drink and is surprised to see her sitting there in the dark. She motions him over and whispers that she's listening. Quietly, she explains that Ken has had a bad time and needed someone to talk to. Alec rejoins that he "picks his moments" but Bet hushes him and leans closer to the wall. "Anyway, what do you mean a bad time,? He never has anything else does Ken Barlow!" grumbles Alec. Sharply, Bet whispers, "Alec! Believe me when I say I had to do what I did tonight." With tears in her eyes she adds, "And shall I tell you summat else? I *love* you - you'll never know how much!" He reaches out to comfort her but she again hushes him. "Shhh! It's all right - he's going home", she smiles. "He' s going home!"
Ken starts down the street, slowly and painfully, watching the pavement as he goes. Hearing a baby's cries inside No11, he pauses outside the house and looks up. A smile comes slowly to his lips and he moves on at a brisker pace.
In the raw light of day, Bet calls around at Ken's to see how he's feeling. Still in his PJ's, he groggily lets her in. When he tells her he has a "thick head" she conjectures that most of the country shares that affliction this morning. Ken says he probably has more regrets than others but Bet says it's all water under the bridge. He tells her he'll always be grateful for what she did. "If I thought that, I'd have to run and hide every time you come into the pub!" she answers. When he next comes in, she tells him, she wants him to order his half a bitter, pay his 44p and say "thank you" as he always does - "just as if last night never happened." "I'll try", he promises.
The Websters are grouchy this morning, little Rosie having wailed half the night. Sleep-deprived Kevin offers to look after the baby so sleep-deprived Sally can go back to bed. Sally, the ingrate, throws the suggestion back in his face shrieking that she can't sleep with the baby crying! (I'm no expert but I think that baby wouldn't cry half so much if Sally wasn't so uptight!)
At the tea dance, Emily and Rita take in their surroundings as they sit quietly at one of the tables. Emily notices "that boss of Curly's" is here. She wonders whether he's married or not. As Reg whisks one of the ladies around on the dance floor, Rita comments that he doesn't seem too sure himself!
Curly, Martin and Kevin are walking down the street heading for the Rovers. As they reach the door, Mike Baldwin has just pulled up to the curb. Alighting from his car, he offers to buy them a round, to "wet the babies' heads". Martin curtly rejects the offer, telling Mike to save his money and spend it on his "fancy piece instead"!
Reg now joins Rita and Emily at their table, breathlessly proclaiming dancing "the finest exercise in the world". A top ballroom dancer needs the fitness of an Olympic athlete, he informs them confidently. Emily excuses herself from the table and Rita looks after her with panic. "And, are you - top class?" she asks politely. Modestly, he shakes his head, "Merely a gifted amateur!" He goes on to tell her about taking lessons when he and his wife were first married. Deftly, he works in to the conversation that he and his wife are now apart. "I did what I could", he sighs, "but you have to know when to let it go". Changing the subject, he remarks that he's surprised to see Rita there. She comments dryly that she's rather surprised herself. Leaning forward to place his hand on her arm, he gives her the assurance that she'll never be short a partner with him around! Rita forces a smile in response.
At the Wiltons, Victor Pendlebury has stopped by for a word with Derek. Mavis arrives just as he is leaving. She expresses her disappointment but as Victor explains, he only came to talk business and it would only bore her. On the contrary, Mavis protests - she is very interested in business! In that case, says Victor as he takes his leave, Derek will fill you in!
Emily returns to an empty table at the tea dance. A look around the room reveals Reg and Rita enjoying a dance. And Rita really does seem to be enjoying it!
Alma goes into the Rovers and parks herself at the bar. "I won't ask how you 're feeling", Bet smiles sympathetically. "Terrible!" Alma reveals anyway. This is the worst New Year's she's ever had and she isn't going to put up any fronts!
Derek has put Mavis in the picture about the reason for Victor's visit. He's going to Darlington next week. He's to be gone all day. Oh, and by the way, he's bringing Angela. He'll be showing her around the facility and "All day! Just the two of you?" Mavis reacts. She resumes her knitting with a vengence. Truly puzzled, Derek asks, "Mavis -- what about your New Year's resolution?" Apparently, she wasn't prepared to have it tested so immediately - poor thing. She slams down her knitting and dissolves in tears.
Anita Belanger
Victor Pendlebury: CHRISTOPHER COLL
Written by: PETER WHALLEY Directed by: BRIAN MILLS
Wednesday (3170, Friday 4 January 1991)
Deirdre and Phil Jennings are returning from their weekend away in Paris and Percy is there to greet them as they alight from their taxi. Helpful as ever, he offers to carry Deirdre's suitcase in but gets the brush-off as Deirdre and Phil slip inside the house, shutting Percy outside. Deirdre doesn't expect to find anyone in the house and is momentarily startled to find Tracy at home. By way of an explanation, Tracy tells her mother that she had a row with her dad. Deirdre bids Phil goodbye (the taxi is still waiting for him) and sits down to hear Tracy's story.
Across the road in the Kabin, Mavis is distracted from her work thinking about Derek's new association with Angela. Rita tells her, in so many words, to get a grip. He is only showing her around a waste paper factory, after all. Even with lunch thrown in, "It's hardly like they're spending ten days on the Costa Del Sex!" (LOL!!!) Mavis tells Rita that she doesn't understand what Angela is really like: "She's like a circus ring-master, cracking her whip and waiting for the little poodle to jump through hoops." (Derek being the poodle, we assume!)
Furious after hearing Tracy's story, Deirdre calls around to take matters up with Ken. She tells him he is "pathetic" for the way he carried on, that he had no right to expect that she would spend New Year's eve with him. She finds his manner disarming. Far from argumentative, he is contrite and humble, agreeing readily that he was wrong. To Deirdre's surprise, he admits that he has been expecting too much. With Ken's assurances that "the penny has finally dropped" and that there'll be no more trouble, her anger fades and she is left gaping at him in surprise.
Percy's in a snit over Emily going to the tea dance without him. As he briskly plucks the wash from the clothesline, she tries to explain that she took Rita instead of him only because she was going in her "official capacity". He still thinks it's a "rum do", going to a dance and not being able to dance. She tells him that she did dance, with Mr Holdsworth, as a matter of fact. Percy categorises Reg Holdsworth as a "ladies' man" and he says he bets Mrs Holdsworth wasn't there. "Well, as it happens, Mr Sugden", explains Emily, "his wife has left him." Percy counters that the reason his wife left him is "because he's a ladies' man!".
In Bettabuys' lunch room during morning tea break, Curly suggests to Kimberly that since they're on the same lunch hour today, they use the time to go for a walk together. She protests that it's freezing outside but Curly says he'll keep her warm. Vera sits down with them, interrupting their under-the-table hand-holding and asks about a wedding date. Before they can respond, Reg barges in and orders Curly to take an early lunch as he has "urgent business" to attend to. Curly's hopes dashed for spending the lunch hour alone with Kimberly, but Vera tells him not to worry, maybe this time next year they'll be starting a family. Somewhat comforted at the thought, Curly reaches underneath the table to grope Kimberly's knee, but misses his mark, only to have Vera shriek with laughter, "Aaack!!! Gotta watch this fella, Kim!".
When Deirdre comes back from talking to Ken, Tracy is seated at the dining table, writing a "thank-you" to Susan for her Christmas gift. Deirdre tells her that Ken has apologised for his behaviour which prompts Tracy to confess what she said to Ken during their row, that he wasn't her "real dad". Deirdre expresses regret at Tracy having said something so drastic and tells her she thinks Tracy may have been exaggerating Ken's part in their row. (Wait a second, Deirdre... You weren't there when Ken screamed at poor Tracy: "I don't want you - I want Deirdre!!!") Tracy doesn't hang about to argue; she's off to her friend, Debbie's, for tea.
At lunch time in the Rovers, as they await their hot pot, Mavis is harping at Derek because, as she sees it, they are dependent on his ex-wife to "pay the mortgage". She reckons they'd be better off living in a tent. When he asks whether she wants him to cancel the contract, she replies with an emphatic "Yes". She goes on to tell him he has to make a choice; her - or Angela!
At the bar, Mark is telling Kevin how swamped he is at the garage. He wonders when Kev will be back on the job to give him a hand. Kevin can't spare the time now as Sally needs him at home to help care for the malcontent, Rosie. He dismisses Mark's pleas, saying he'll be back at work when his "paternity leave" is over.
In the Kabin, Rita is packing away Christmas decorations when in glides Reg. (Oh, so this is the "urgent business" he forced Curly to move his lunch hour for!) Reg tells Rita he's in to check what social events are coming up and she tells him it's a good idea to keep active, it'll take his mind off his troubles. That's all the encouragement R Reg needs. "Good!", he responds. "What time shall I pick you up?" Taken aback at his forwardness, Rita tells him he must be joking. (Look again, Rita... I think he's serious!)
On her way home from Debbie's, Tracy knocks at Ken's door. He is delighted to see her there as he felt she wouldn't be able to forgive him for what he said on New Year's eve. Upstairs, each apologises to the other for the things they said in anger. Ken tells Tracy that he's been behaving selfishly but from now on, he promises, things are going to be different. She gives him her assurance that she didn't mean what she said, he's the only dad she wants. (Smiles and hugs all around.)
In the Rovers, as Don steps up to the bar, Liz hands him a present she has for Martin and Gail's newborn son, David. She asks Don if he could pass it on but he makes the excuse that he'll be too busy and anyway, perhaps Martin will be in and she could give it to him instead. Slipping it back under the bar, Liz agrees but we can see she's a trifle confused. (Only you and I and Don know the *real* reason he doesn't want to handle the gift. Ivy doesn't accept David as her grandchild and Don doesn't want to make waves.)
Sipping her vodka and tonic in her booth, Rita tells Bet about Reg Holdsworth's nerve, asking her out as he did. Bet gleefully calls him "Randy Reg" but Rita doesn't find it amusing. She'd sooner go out with Percy Sugden, she says! "Just wait 'til I see Emily Bishop!", she fumes.
At Bettabuys, Curly is still after that elusive moment alone with Kimberly. He's sent her to the stockroom in search of pickled beet root, knowing full well the shipment hasn't arrived yet. He follows her in and makes his true motives known, whereupon she tells him this isn't the time or the place and besides, there'll be plenty of time for that when they're married. And by the way, when will that be, anyway, because her mother keeps asking her if they've set the date? Curly accuses her of taking more heed of her mother than of him but Kimberly hastily protests that isn't true - she loves him! Just as Curly takes hold of her, in barges Reg again. Fumbling for an excuse, Curly tells him they are seeking beet root. Dismissing Kimberly, Reg gives Curly a stern word about making time on company time. "Sex! Is that all you think about?!" To his dismay, Curly is informed that if there are any further incidents, Reg will be calling head office!
At number one, Deirdre and Liz are having a cup of tea and musing over Ken's apparent change of attitude. Tracy comes home unexpectedly and the talk quickly shifts to "recipes". Tracy announces to Deirdre that she stopped to see her dad on her way home and they've kissed and made up. This news causes Deirdre to furrow her brow and confide to Liz that she doesn't know what to make of Ken's sudden willingness to cooperate. Should she to be relieved or suspicious about it? Liz' hunch is that she should be suspicious.
In the Kabin, Rita is listening yet again to Mavis' whitterings about Derek working with Angela. She's afraid her marriage is "at risk". Rita calmly tells her she could simply try trusting Derek, but Mavis turns and snaps, "Like you did with Alan Bradley?!" The look of pain on Rita's face at these words is obvious and Mavis immediately regrets her brashness. She meekly apologises and heads into the back to brew up.
Emily comes in and seeing Rita looking upset, asks what's up. Rita shakes her head and says there's no point trying to give advice to some people, they only "put the boot in" when you do. Then she tells Emily about Reg Holdsworth asking her out. Emily launches straight into a sermon on Reg's reputation, repeating almost verbatim, what Percy earlier told her. (You didn't think she took what Percy said to heart when he was telling her - in fact, she seemed to be defending Reg at the time!)
In the Websters' livingroom, Kevin "takes over" from Sally the task of jiggling Rosie's pram to soothe the crying infant while Sally moans about being sleep deprived. (Forgive me wondering, but shouldn't someone pick the child up now and again? Every time I see her, she's in that pram!) Curly drops by for a quick visit and leaning over to peer in at Rosie, he jangles his car keys (actually, he kind of waves them back and forth) ostensibly to amuse her. (It doesn't work.) While Kevin lightheartedly complains that the baby doesn't sleep much, Curly wistfully comments that he'll probably never know the joys of fatherhood. Poor Sally, worn out as she is, has fallen asleep on the sofa during the few minutes since Curly came in. Kevin asks him not to slam the door on the way out.
When Alma comes into the Kabin, Mavis expresses sympathy about the breakup with Mike. Being Mavis, she doesn't let it go at that: "Of course, we don't know the details, do we?". Rita hastily cuts in, "No, and we don't want to know, do we?" In spite of Rita's efforts, Alma is surprisingly forthcoming about the reasons for her split from Mike. She says she thinks it was inevitable. She never got involved enough in Mike's work to see what was happening. You can see the wheels in Mavis' head turning as she asks Alma if she had it to do over, would she have done things differently. Rita, who thinks Mavis is asking out of idle curiousity, tries to end the conversation but Alma replies with conviction, yes - she would.
At the café, Ken's just finishing up a meal. As he is the last customer, he assumes Martin is waiting for him to leave so that he can go home. But Martin tells him he has to wait for Alma to come back before he can leave so the two begin chatting about the blessings of new fatherhood. Ken recalls the twins, Susan and Peter, one of whom slept days while the other slept nights assuring many months of restlessness for their parents. (Strewth - he even remembered which twin slept when!) Alma bustles in with an apology for being late and Martin seems relieved to be on his way home to his little family. Ken takes his cue and starts to leave for home but pauses to tell her he's sorry for her troubles. She remarks that since Christmas was so dismal for her, the new year has nowhere to go but up. Ken, whose own New Year was less than perfect, agrees with her. They wish each other a happy New Year and he leaves goes out the door, leaving Alma to sit quietly alone in the café for a few minutes before switching the light off and going upstairs.
Deirdre is at the Rovers' bar trying to suss Bet out about Ken's changed attitude. She wonders if he was in at all over the holiday? Bet plays it cool and tells her the pub was in a "mad rush" over the holidays and she really didn't notice. She in turn asks Deirdre about the Paris trip and Deirdre says it was wonderful and she would have enjoyed it even more, had she known Ken would be so "calm and reasonable" on her return.
Bet sees Percy standing at the bar and moves down to serve him but he tells her he isn't sure what he's having yet. (Now since when does Percy ever order anything except half a bitter? LOL) Anyway, she suggests half a bitter to him and his little face lights up as he takes it the she is offering the drink on the house. She mumbles under her breath, "What's half a bitter?" He hears her and responds, "Well, it's more to me than it is to you!" and smilingly takes the glass, toasting her good health. No sooner has he lifted it up than he complains it's gone "off". Bet has no patience for this and barks, "Jacko - see to it!", before walking briskly away. Jack comes over and leaning across the bar says to Percy: "Clear off!". Percy, looking wounded, clears off, taking his half a bitter with him.
Curly is standing at the bar and in a semi-drunken state, tells Jack that the "big panda" will have another beer. He explains that pandas in captivity never mate as they are being watched, much as he and Kimberly are being watched, by Mr and Mrs Taylor, Mr Holdsworth and even Vera! He's had enough and he forms the resolve there and then, (egged on by Jack of course) to be rid of the Taylors and their "petty, bourgeois, twisted values". "As of now", he announces, "I am no longer engaged to 'Cautious Kimberly'!"
Seated together in one of the booths, Rita is telling Liz all about the tea dance. Bet takes Rita a drink with compliments from a "secret admirer" and Reg's smiling face leans out from behind the booth to say, "Cheers, Rita! Told you I don't take 'no' for an answer!" Far from being pleased, Rita mutters to Liz about the "bloody cheek" but curtly returns the salutation. She then tells Liz she's just decided to have an early night tonight!
Mavis and Derek are at home and she is chopping parsley in preparation for a late meal while reminiscing about their circumstances only a year ago. "Remember living above the Kabin in that tiny flat, Derek?" Derek remembers that he was then out of a job and he hopes she doesn't want him to be in that state again. "You won't have to be", she tells him. "Because I'm going to be more supportive from now on, take more of an interest in your work!" She goes on to say that she's asked Rita for time off so that he can show her around the factory. "But, Mavis", he protests, "you don't need to take time off for that. I can show you around the factory on a weekend." Mavis explains that she doesn't mean *his* factory, but *Victor's*, in Darlington. In fact, she's arranged to have time off to accompany Derek and Angela tomorrow and they can *all* have lunch together! Close-up on poor Derek whose face registers his reaction at the 'happy' news, powerlessness and melancholy.
Written by PHIL WOODS
Thursday (3171, Monday 7 January 1991)
Mavis is brushing up on her factory facts as she and Derek are getting ready to leave to pick up Angela on the way to the Darlington plant. Mavis wants something explained to her before they leave so as not to be shown up in front of Angela. If the baler at Darlington is exactly the same as the one in the Weatherfield factory, why does Derek need to take Angela all the way to Victor's factory? Why not just show her the one here? Derek helps Mavis on with her coat and says it was Victor's idea, ask him... or not. (and a very lovely red wool coat it is with an attached red wool scarf! I want it!) Derek still isn't sure Mavis would enjoy the business trip since he doesn't have time to teach her all the jargon she'll be hearing today. mavis promises to be no trouble but hopes Angela realizes that she's the one sitting in the back seat, not Mavis. Actually Angela doesn't know that Mavis is coming. This makes Mavis's chin drop, mouth open and eyebrows skyrocket. (LOL what a freeze frame on the tape is that!) Outside Derek is urging Mavis to the car, he's 10 minutes late! She keeps trying to delay the inevitable meeting with Angela by checking cookers and wanting toilets but he pushes her to the car, protesting. In a typical married-couple bicker, she accuses him of not wanting her to go, not really. He, exasperated, counters with Are you doing this deliberately, trying to make me late and lose my composure? LOL Derek is starting to perspire and doesn't have a clean shirt. Mavis takes the opportunity to turn toward the house, suggesting she get one for him. Get in the car, Mavis! She just stands there looking out of sorts.
Sally and Kevin are sniping at each other, mostly out of lack of sleep and patience. As Anita pointed out yesterday, Sally is just wheeling that pram back and forth, jiggling the fussy sleepless baby instead of holding her. Kevin is going back to work today and the two of them argue and go on and on. Sally doesn't want him to go but they need the money so he leaves. In the garage, Kevin has to borrow a pair of Mark's coveralls and he moans about how tired he is and how the baby never sleeps though she's lovely, she really is. Sally's mom couldn't come after all because Sally's sister is (now i couldn't make this out... sick? visiting?). They've been left to cope on their own. Mark directs kevin to a job that needs doing and tells him not to expect to get a dinner break owing to his late arrival.
Mavis enters the Kabin. She didn't go after all, telling Rita she just froze. Now she's upset and worrying if she did the right thing or not. Rita assures her the right thing was done but Mavis frets and fusses and you just know she'll be driving Rita spare by the end of the day. Rita suggests Mavis put kettle on but Mavis is now in a different worry, whether Derek will arrive safely and how forceful a woman is Angela then finally volunteers to put kettle on "Shall I?". Rita sighs.
At the supermarket, Mr. Holdsworth approaches Miss Taylor. Didn't Mr. Watts speak to her today? Kim pouts that Mr. Watts hasn't spoken to her all day. Reg reassigns her to the hardware department which doesn't improve Kimberly's mood and she scowls behind his back. Meanwhile Vera is telling Curly that he's not exactly Nigel Havers (?). He's lucky to have a nice girl like Kim, beggars can't be choosers! But the problem isn't Kimberly, it's her parents controlling her every move and thought. He doesn't want to end up like Mr. Taylor, pipe in mouth, down in his greenhouse propogatin' 'is prize patagoniums! Vera tells him that marriage can be exciting, look at her and Jack! Curly glumly says that wasn't what he had in mind either, Jack has his pigeons (instead of a greenhouse ... to get away from vera is the implication here)
At that moment, more or less, Jack is accepting a drink from Jim who is envious of Jack's job in a pub. The public phone rings and Des answers it a couple of times in various sarcastic and joking manners but one caller is looking for a bloke who sells bike parts and Jim scurries behind the bar rather than go around to take the call. "This is me other number". Alec won't be too pleased to hear that, Betty snaps. Jim ignores Betty as she gives him a tongue lashing so Betty turns to Rita who's come in and teases her about dances and romances. Rita says it were only a cup of tea and a record player in the church hall and no sign of romance.
But at that moment. again, more or less, a lovely bouquet of pink roses has arrived at the Kabin. With Emily admiring the arrangement, Mavis thinks it is from Derek to "say it with flowers" after they quarreled that morning. But the card says "To Ginger, From Fred" which confuses Mavis as her hair isn't ginger at all. Emily realizes immediately which redhead is indicated and tells Mavis they might be for Rita. Naive Mavis can't conceive that an unmarried woman might be getting flowers so wonders why Derek could be sending Rita flowers and Rita doesn't know anyone named Fred, she would have mentioned it! When Emily makes her realize the Fred Astaire connection, Mavis understands and the words Reg and Holdsworth hang in the air, unspoken.
Gail and baby David visit Sally who is finally holding that baby and walking the floor with her. David is sound asleep in his pram. Gail takes the baby with the ease of a three time mum and cuddles her up against her neck, holding her close against her chest. Poor Sally is so tired and worried but as Gail points out, it's worry that she isn't cut out to be a mum. Gail gives Sally some good advice and reassurance that she will be fine and sympathises with her. Nicky was the same way and Gail wonders that his first words weren't obscene, the language he heard from her! With the baby quieter in Gail's arms, Sally seems grateful to have her fears and doubts understood.
Rita returns from lunch for Mavis's turn out. Mavis is all whiny and dither as is her wont because Derek hasn't called to say he got to Darlington safely. I think she's afraid the barracuda ex-wife has hijacked him or summat. Rita sees the flowers and inside the Ginger/Fred note is an invitation to another tea dance, would you credit that! What am i going to tell him? Mavis, seeing she's going to get no sympathy from that quarter, sarcastically tells her to make up her own mind and goes for her dinner.
At Bettabuys, Curly approaches Kimberly for a word. She's in an even fouler mood than before, hating the hardware department and is quite difficult with him when he wants to find a time when they can talk. He is paged away before they can set a time and he slopes off. Over in the other aisle, Reg is asking Vera for advice. (he obviously doesn't know her that well yet!) Without names, he says, he wants to know what her reaction would be if she got flowers and an invitation to a dance from a man she formerly wouldn't have thought of in a romantic way but who was a (well i couldn't make out all of it, he was beating his own drum and blowing his own horn so loudly) man of the world, suave, sexy,... You get the picture. Vera smiles bashfully (really!) and tells him that Jack is a jealous husband. No! Not you! Rita Fairclough!!! He huffs off leaving Vera more curious than insulted as the cat scrambles furiously out of the bag!
Mavis calls the Darlington office (on the Kabin's phone bill, no less!) but the switchboard operator has never heard of Mr. Wilton. Mavis is relieved however, when Victor's secretary assures her he got there safely but they are still out at lunch. Rita returns from somewhere and is told this. A relieved Mavis is then given something new to worry about when Rita innocently (?) comments that it's rather late to still be at lunch, it's quarter past 4! Another vcr freeze frame shows Mavis biting her lip, eyes wide and rolling in fear, eyebrows furrowed! LOL (I got lucky with the pause button today!)
Vera serves up tea to Jack and Curly and is gossiping about Rita dating Reg Holdsworth. Plenty of insults are flung across the table between Jack and Vera, a normal occurrence and Jack is busy encouraging Curly to break it off with Kimberly due to his plight with his future in-laws from Hell.
Jenny and Steph are waiting impatiently for Des who's had the day off but was supposed to be there so they could take the car across town for their nightly Pom Dee Lite task. Des rushes in but Steph has no time to hear what he's started to enthuse about. He tells her that she'll have to fend for herself tomorrow as he's taking the car and going down to London for a boat show. Now Steph doesn't attach any significance to that but we do, don't we, readers??
Jim is taking another call at the pub that night and Curly is having a drink for courage before seeing Kimberly. Jack is again sticking his oar in, encouraging Curly to do the right thing. Martin arrives for a quick half, moaning about Alma's long face since Mike Baldwin dumped her with no warning, some men seem to just enjoy being brutal. Curly gets off before he loses his nerve as Kevin and Mark come in. Kevin's just picking up a bottle of beer for himself and orange juice for Sally when Curly comes back in for car assistance. (wonder if the car is trying to tell him something?) Vera comes in and spies Rita and gets them a drink and proceeds to stick the other Duckworth oar in it, advising Rita of all the nasty gossip about Reg Holdsworth, the Groping Grocer and she'd be better off far away from him. Rita realizes Reg took Vera into his confidence and is outraged at that and at Vera's gossip so gives her a right rollicking and leaves, to Bet's dismay. Vera just shrugs and helps herself to the rest of Rita's drink!
Mavis has her evening cocoa waiting for Derek who finally arrives, heading her worries off at the pass with a gift of a new knitted hat and scarf bought in Swaledale, James Herriot country. They came back from Darlington cross country it seems. Mavis is pleased to hear his day was good and the contract is all but signed. She snuggles in for a cuddle and suggests "an early night" but all Derek is interested in is his supper!
Bet visits Rita to apologize for Vera's behaviour. Rita insists she's going to tell Reg what for, for involving Vera and turn him down for the dance. Bet cautions her not to be too hasty just because Vera upset her. What's wrong with the odd night out?
Writer - PHIL WOODS Director - SARAH HARDING
Friday (3172, Wednesday 9 January 1991)
As Rita is setting up the papers outside the Kabin, she spies Victor's car pulling up in front of the Wilton's. When she goes back inside, Mavis is serving Des and Jim and Des is drooling over a boat magazine. Rita mentions to Mavis about seeing Victor's car and Mavis tells her yes, it probably was, as he and Derek have a meeting with Angela at Hawthorne's.
Victor and Derek are getting ready to set off, when Victor asks Derek how Mavis is about Angela. Derek tells him that Mavis find the situation ironic. They set off, with Derek quite pleased with himself over the deal with Angela.
At the Rovers, Bet and Betty go on about the addiction that shopping can be, when Des comes in to drop off Steph's house keys. Des tells Bet that he's off to climb aboard the biggest yacht he can find and Jack is convinced that Des is doing a flit.
Back to the Kabin and Mavis is grilling Rita about her "friendship" with Reg. She doesn't believe Rita that it is just dancing.
At Bettabuys, Vera is trying to find out what is wrong with Kimberly, who ends up throwing a hissy fit and stomping off in tears. Reg is up in his office when he spies Rita down on the floor, and he heads down to intercept her, after a few quick squirts of breath freshener to engage in some light flirty quips with Rita. Meanwhile, in the stockroom, Kimberly is still in tears and Curly makes it worse by telling her she is a prisoner. Vera heads into the stockroom, but turns around as soon as she sees the young lovers, only to find Rita and Reg chatting it up. They continue their conversation about dancing with Vera eavesdropping behind them, so unobtrusively! Back in the stockroom, Curly tells Kimberly that he is going to have it out with her parents tonight.
At PPP, Victor tells Derek that his new job description is to keep Angela happy, although Derek protests that he has enough to do already.
Now to the Webster's, where Sally finally has the baby to sleep, and when Kevin comes in, they decide they would rather have a nap than eat.
Mavis, Rita and Emily are talking about Sally and the new baby at the Kabin, when Reg arrives and Rita invites him up to her flat. Mavis and Emily tut tut at that. Upstairs, Rita tells Reg that she does not like Vera talking about her and Reg in public, but they sort it out and agree to keep on dancing.
At Jenny and Angie's, Angie is doing her designer thing on Ben when Mark drops by, but Jenny gets rid of him by telling him she is working tonight.
All was peaceful at the Webster's when there's a mighty bang on the door and the baby starts wailing! Kevin goes to the door to see Mark, who tells him he's getting a great welcome everywhere tonight, after Kevin blasts him for waking Rosie. Kev sends Mark off to the chippy for their dinner.
At the Rovers, Steph picks up the house keys Des left for her, and she tells Bet and Jack that Des has gone to the boat show in London with a mate. Angie and Ben come in, counting out just enough for a pint and a half and a pack of crisps. Angie is surprised to see Steph as she thought she would be working with Jenny at the promo, but Steph tells her there is nothing on tonight. Angie looks puzzled.
Curly is having tea at the Taylor's, but only with Mummy T as Daddy T is out at a garden club meeting tonight. The only sound to be heard is the tic toc of a mantle clock, until Curly is so annoyed with it that he jams in one of Mummy T's figurines to stop it - when she is out of the room of course! Curly then has a go at Kimberly about her mother treating them all like children, until Kimberly finally has had enough and takes off her engagement ring and leaves in tears. Mummy T comes through and tells Curly that she thinks it is better for everyone. She tries to give Curly back the ring, but he refuses.
Ben Williams: PAUL WARRINER
Writer: JULIAN ROACH Director: SARAH HARDING
Monday (3173, Friday 11 January 1991)
Angie scolds Jenny for coming in late last night. Jenny tells her she went out after her Pom De Lite job. Angie knows better thought because Steph had blown the whistle, telling Angie that there was no job last night. Jenny is evasive and is saved by the bell when Mark arrives.
Curly has no appetite, pushing his sausage around on his plate. Jack is triumphant and tells Curly how clever it was of him to work it so that Kimberly broke off with *him* so he didn't have to do the dirty work. Curly's mind has changed in the face of rejection now, professing his love for Kimberly, putting more of the blame on her parents (and he's right!). He leaves the table and rushes a sympathetic Vera along to get to work. After they leave, Jack helps himself to the rest of Curly's breakfast. Priorities, you know.
At the Kabin, Betty and Emily are chatting to Rita and Mavis about tea dances. Rita is defending her decision to go to the dance with Reg over "some people's objections". Betty's not keen to go and one afternoon with Reg was more than enough for Emily, she finds him a bit overpowering. Rita sends the ladies into fits of giggles when she comments "this from the woman who lives with Percy Sugden"! Betty and Emily leave and Mavis takes Rita to task for embarrassing her with pointed remarks. Rita doesn't know why Mavis doesn't approve, it's all harmless after all. (at least on her part!)
Curly wonders if Kim has confided in Vera but she hasn't. He watches Kim leave her post at the till and tries to approach her. But in a move worthy of an NHL defenceman, Kim swerves to avoid Curly and rushes down the aisle. Curly runs down the next aisle to head her off at the other end but she is very cool and businesslike, not wanting anything to do with him on a personal level and is very firm on that point. She brushes his hand off her arm squeaking about possible sexual harassment threats. It isn't' going well. Vera approaches and offers her assistance but that's the last thing Curly wants. Reg approaches so the women rush back to their jobs. Reg wants the name and number of Curly's mechanic. Curly writes it down on a slip of paper, distracted by his own problems.
Mark is up to his elbows into an engine. Kevin brings two cups of tea over and is given some stick for how early he's brewed up. He's only been in an hour! Yeah, but he's been up since 5 a.m.! Mark answers the phone but it's for Kevin. It's Reg, who wants Kevin to look at his car over at his house, not in at the garage. Kevin keeps it under his had and tells Mark it was just a mate wanting to flog his car and hoping Kevin will look it over with an estimate of how much it's worth.
Derek runs into his office from the warehouse to answer the phone. It's Angela, which makes Derek wince with guilt. Wait, it gets worse! She wants Derek to have lunch with her today but Derek manages to put her off until next week, groaning with the thought of impending doom when he rings off. Sounds to me like Angela is milking this contract for more than it's worth!
Angie plays with Rosie while Sally looks on. Angie wonders if Sally knows what Jenny's playing at, saying she's working when she's not. Sally doesn't know either and promises to keep and ear out. Sally seems to be longing for a bit of adult company (already???) and suggests Angie stay for a cuppa but Angie has lectures to attend so she gets on her way.
Reg gets ready to leave for the afternoon, borrowing Curly's car keys and promising to have them back in a reasonable amount of time, but not too early, Reg leers. (Ah. Tea dance day.) With a twitch and a smile, he saunters off. Curly encounters Kimberly again and tries to get her to see reason. They love each other and he doesn't care what her parents think of him (ah. but she does!) None of his pleading is for naught because she tells him in no uncertain terms, of her own free will, not her mum and dad's that SHE says it's over, they're through! Got that!? He attempts to mutter something else but she's adamant and sticks to her guns.
In the pub at dinnertime Jack is telling Mark that he hopes Curly doesn't marry Kimberly or his life won't be worth living! What's love got to do with owt, we're talking about marriage here! Mavis and Emily have had lunch. A frog-voiced Emily assures Mavis not to worry about Rita, she can take care of herself after all she's been through. She's just lonely, not vulnerable as Mavis fears. Emily leaves making Mavis promise to tell her all the details and Derek arrives. He's sucking up hard and lays it on thick, telling Mavis he thinks having lunch with one's wife is much more important than work! He doesn't tell her about Angela's call.
Kevin has his dinner at home because he hoped he might catch an half hour's kip. Sally asks Kevin if Mark might think Jenny is going cool on him. Well if she is, it's news to Mark who's still besotted as far as Kevin knows. Sally has told Kevin what she's heard from Angie and Kevin proceeds to tell Sally that Curly has put him in a tight spot by putting Reg on to him. Sally wonders what Mark would say to catch Kevin working on his own. He'll never find out, Kevin is confident. (Never say Never!)
Gail is in at the Kabin settling her paper/magazine/comic bill. Mavis oohs and ahs over the baby who suddenly sneezes his dummy right out of his mouth, startling both Gail and Mavis who immediately coo at him. (good ad lib, David, lad!) Gail leaves as it's soon feeding time at the "zoo". Just as Mavis turns to straighten out the cards who should walk in but Victor. Victor, as usual, manages to be suave, debonair and two faced as he "assumes" Derek has already told Mavis that he will be seeing Angela on a regular basis. Victor is admiring of Mavis's rational, calm and stable demeanor and was surprised she hadn't called Victor to complain as most wives would. Mavis covers but loses much of her colour as she swallows hard. Victor manages to cadge a cup of tea out of her and later stirs the pot some more with more of the same kinds of comments, mixed in with admiration and compliments for this woman he had hoped to marry once. Mavis reaches the end of her patience and gets rid of him before she loses all composure. (saving that for Derek no doubt!)
Reg and Rita leave the dance. He's effusive in his compliments and flattery, laying it on thick about mature experienced women being his preference and oh, it's endless until Rita cuts him off at the car. She also declines his dinner invitation but won't say no to a cup of tea and tea cake on the way home.
Curly watches the staff leave and then runs towards the car into which Kimberly is lowering herself. Mummy is driving and it's she to whom Curly wants to speak. The window is rolled down but Mummy is more than sarcastic, referring to Curly as a sex maniac, thug and villain and though Curly tries to convince her that Kim is a grown woman with a mind of her own and loves him, she drives off fiercely, leaving him shouting in the dark before long.
In the pub that night, Steph chats to Bet about Des's enthusiastic call from the boat show in London and then confirms for Angie that there is no Pom De Lite show tonight. Angie tells her that Jenny said there was when she left a half hour ago and just when they and a friend of Angie's discuss Jenny's motivations, Mark comes in. He is surprised to see Steph there and Steph deftly covers for Jenny and says she has to get off sharpish or she'll be late! (but you know Steph will get to the bottom of this!) Jim comes in for a pint, telling Bet that Liz will be in later. Bet is amazed that Liz wouldn't rather be doing something else on her night off, maybe the pictures, or theatre or dancing but Jim can't picture himself tripping the light fantastic!
Kevin comes home and tells Sally that Reg's car needs a bit of work that he'll have to do on the sly at the weekend. Sally alternates whinges from Mark finding out and Kevin working on the weekend. She babbles about babies from the kitchen but when she goes back through, she finds Kevin out like a light on the settee.
When Derek arrives home late, we see that Mavis is obviously at the end of her tether. There is no tea ready because she didn't know whether he would have to spend more time keeping customers warm (i.e. selling and sucking up I guess). She is very sarcastic and accuses Derek of being at the customer's beck and call. Derek figures out she knows about Angela and guesses that Victor called her. Wrong! He came to see her at the shop, assuming she already knew which of course she didn't and was very embarrassed to have to cover for him. She dissolves into tears, accusing him of flinging her trust back in her face, he's supposed to be her husband. She crumples and runs upstairs, slamming the bedroom door.
Ben Williams - PAUL WARRINER
Writer - BARRY HILL Director - SARA HARDING
Tuesday (3174, Monday 14 January 1991)
Mavis is in a state and as she leaves the house for work, Derek follows. She gets to the Kabin and gives Derek an earful about having to continue to work with Angela. After he leaves, she tells Rita that he has lied to her, Victor told her that Derek had actually volunteered! Rita ends up getting Mavis riled at her and has to listen to abuse about going dancing with a married man. Rita tells her that Reg is separated and Sally comes in and substantiates the story, as Kevin had to go round to Reg's house to fix his car and there was no sign of Mrs. Holdsworth.
Kevin and Mark arrive at the garage, where they find the lights on from the night before, and Mark thinks that he must have accidentally left them on.
Now to the Bettabuys lunchroom, where Reg is telling Curly what a good and reasonable job Kevin did on his car, but Curly seems lost in another world, and after he leaves, Reg approaches Vera to find out what's wrong with Curly. Vera tells him it is about Kimberly, how she's chucked Curly, but Reg tells her he will sort it out, as he is well experienced in matters of the heart.
Steph and Jenny are working at the perfume counter when Robert drops by to see Jenny. After he's gone, Jenny tells Steph he wanted to know what she was doing tonight, and Steph reminds her that she is working.
At the Rovers, Bet is trying to have a conversation with Mark, but he now he is lost in another world. Bet, Rita and Liz decide on a good gossip session, with lots of juicy details, and Rita fills them in on Mavis' current crisis. When the gossip starts flowing, customers can go whistle!
Kevin arrives home to a sleeping Rosie, and sardines on toast for dinner. He tells Sally about leaving the lights on at the garage and how Mark thinks it was his doing. Sally says she feels sorry for Mark, with Jenny two timing him and Kevin doing work behind his back. The shouting the two of them do in the kitchen wake Rosie, and Sally sends Kevin out to drive her around til she's asleep or he won't even get sardines on toast.
Back to Bettabuys, where Kimberly goes to see Reg, who can barely remember why he wanted to see her. He then grills her about Curly, and she tries to tell him she wants a transfer and doesn't care if she ever sees Curly again.
Victor and Derek are grabbing a bite of lunch just off the highway at Derek's request. Victor twists the story about Derek having to work with Angela and what he told Mavis. Derek concludes he is caught between the devil and the deep blue sea.
Mark and Kevin are closing up the garage when Des comes in to book some time for them to look at his car, and he tells them about the boat show. Des happens to mention where the promo is tonight for Steph and Jenny. When he leaves, Kev plants the seed in Mark's head about going and seeing Jenny do the promo tonight.
Derek arrives home to find Mavis sitting in the dark with her coat still on. Quick cut to the Kabin, where Rita is locking up when there is a bang on the door and it's Reg - who wrangles an invite up to the flat for a drink. Back at the Wilton's, Mavis is still in the dark when Derek brings her a cup of tea. Derek tells Mavis that he met with Victor today and he thinks Victor is up to his old tricks, trying to drive a wedge between them. Mavis says no, Victor is married now, but Derek insists, until Mavis tells him it's a smoke screen to cover up Derek's smouldering infatuation for Angela. Mavis shares her carefully thought out theory with Derek, which Derek denies until he's shut up by putting one foot firmly in his mouth! Something about how beautifully Mavis, the dutiful little wife, washes his hankies! As soon as the words are out of his mouth, Derek knows he make a major mistake, and he is banished to the kitchen while Mavis resumes sitting alone in the dark.
Back at Rita's flat, Reg and she are enjoying a drink and chat, and Reg tells her that his wife is in New Zealand, living with her sister.
At the Rovers, our lad Curly has had too much to drink, and is telling Jack that he should have got rid of Kimberly and her parents a long time ago. Curly needs directions to the toilet, and Jack kindly provides. Some sad moments when Alma shares her loneliness with Liz and Ken his loneliness with Bet. Jack realizes that Curly is still in the toilet and goes to collect him, only to have to carry him home!
At the Pomme de Lite promo, Robert has Jenny hanging all over him, while they chat with Steph. Steph spies Mark as he comes in, and she sends Jenny over to talk to him as she keeps Robert company. Mark notices Steph and Robert talking and makes the assumption that they are going out and Jenny does nothing to correct that assumption.
Robert Weston: PHILIP BRETHERTON
Writer: LESLIE DUXBUXRY Director: JUNE HOWSON
Wednesday (3175, Wednesday 16 January 1991)
We open in the Barnes household with Steph humming along to a tune on the radio as she applies last minute touches to her morning make-up. Jenny comes in to prod her along so they won't be late for work and Steph takes the opportunity to confront Jenny about the close call they had the previous evening when Mark showed up unexpectedly at the Pomme Delite promotion. Jenny sheepishly confesses that she allowed Mark to form the mistaken impression that Robert, her new beau, was actually with Steph. Angered by this revelation, Steph calls Jenny a "stupid cow" and tells her she'd better set Mark straight before Des hears of it!
Meanwhile, Mark is, at this very minute, in the garage passing on his mistaken impression. After telling Kevin about Steph being with a bloke the night before, he says he thinks someone ought to put Des in the picture. But Kevin doesn't want any part of it and he advises Mark to stay well out, too. That is, unless he wants to be responsible for Steph getting agro from Des. This prompts Mark to reflect on what he'd do if he ever caught Jenny two-timing him: he'd break her neck!
In the ladies' washroom at Bettabuys', Vera is trying to get Curly's love life in order by giving Kimberly some unsolicited and unwelcome advice, i.e., the benefit of her experience regarding matters of the heart. She tells her she should hang on to Curly because he's going places. She wishes she'd "had the sense" to meet someone like him. Vera goes dreamy-eyed as she thinks of how different things could have been. She reckons she'd be at home now, in a nice bungalow with her feet up, enjoying coffee and biccies while watching a game show on telly....
Finishing her soliloquy, Vera says ruefully, "But I 'ad to go for glamour, din't I?"
Kimberly makes no effort to hide her surprise: "Jack! Glamour?!?"
"Oh aye - like Clark Gable 'e were.... Dashin' an' 'andsome.... Life an' soul of t'party...."
"What happened?", gapes Kimberly.
"Well, it were all show, wern't it? 'All that glitters in't gold'.... They were right, who said that, I'll tell yer.... But Curly - 'e's.... 'e's 24 karat!"
With a sigh of exasperation, Kimberly exits the washroom only to come face to face with Mr Solid Gold himself, who is anxiously tapping fingers on the door frame as he waits for her. When he pleads with her to discuss the business of her transfer request, she fleas, shrieking that she just wants to be left alone. Rounding the corner just in time to witness her distress is Reg, who surmises the situation and orders Curly to his office.
As they come into Reg's office, the older man is chastising Curly for "harassing (his) staff". Curly begs Reg to cancel the transfer request, saying that Kimberly "is never *this* decisive". Reg firmly informs him that he cannot do that. He has given his word and "a Holdsworths word is his bond!" Anyway, he thinks, maybe some time apart would benefit them both, time to think. Curly informs Reg that he is unable to eat or sleep, let alone think. To prove his point, he stands up and shakes his pants legs to show Reg how loose they've become. He sits down again, hopeless resignation in his voice as he says, "I love her".
Reg, infinitely more experienced in matters of this nature than is Curly, counters, "Love? Or a deeply wounded ego?" He gives Curly a "tip", get himself out to the nightclubs and discos, spread his net, play the field. He finishes by telling Curly to get with it, they have a store to run. Poor Curly is despondent as he makes one last plea for Reg to "lose" the transfer form in the post. Reg emphatically refuses, giving Curly a final admonition as he dismisses him, "Never mix business with pleasure!"
No sooner has Curly shut the door than Reg picks up the phone and with a grin reminiscent of the cat who swallowed the canary, dials Rita's number. At the other end of the line, in the Kabin, Rita answers Reg's call as Mavis waits on Bet at the counter. Mavis remarks about the magazine Bet is purchasing, 'Hello', and Bet says that she likes "a bit of scandal with (her) elevenses". Mavis reveals that she prefers "more uplifting" reading material, herself. Bet dismisses that sort as a bit too dull for her as she "needs a regular fix of willful women and wicked men!". Rita ends her phone call and returns to the counter just as Mavis sniffs, "We get enough of that in real life around here, lately!"
As Bet leans in for some gossip, Rita waves her off, saying it's just a case of Mavis objecting to her friendship with Reg. Mavis clarifies that she doesn't "object", she just worries about what Rita is "getting into". Bet quips that if that's all she's going to get, she's going, but she stops just at the door to signal to Rita to come in to the pub later and give her the dirt. Rita nods her understanding and turns back to Mavis to apologise for being sharp with her.
Mavis reiterates that she is only concerned for Rita's welfare - after all, Reg *is* a married man. "Separated", Rita corrects her, and anyway, *she* makes the rules where Reg is concerned, so not to worry. Mavis wonders if Reg's wife would "see it that way", and Rita remarks that Reg's wife would need a telescope to see anything as she's in far off New Zealand, prompting Mavis to state mournfully that she wishes *Angela* were!
Mark and Kevin enter the cafe together at lunchtime arguing about whether to go to the Rovers instead. Kevin just wants to grab some lunch and get back to the garage but Mark is in favour of going for a pint in case Des happens to be in. They go their separate ways, Kevin once more cautioning Mark to mind his own business as he goes to the counter to order a cup of tea and bacon buttie to go. Martin serves him while cracking a joke about the fitful Rosie who continues to cry relentlessly. Phyllis, who is standing by, makes a soft comment about how wonderful babies are and is shocked when Kevin makes a sarcastic quip about "gags working wonders". The two men giggle over this as Kevin takes his lunch off with him and heads back to work.
Ken is also in the cafe for his lunch, telling Alma that he needed the break from "150 noisy school children" today. They are very friendly to each other, Alma and Ken, a fact that doesn't go unnoticed by Phyllis. She turns to remark to Martin that she thinks there's a romance about to bloom, but Martin says rebound situations never work. Alma has just come back from serving Ken and hearing Martin's remark, casually asks, "What doesn't work?". Martin and Phyllis grope for an answer and he manages to say something lame which leaves Alma bemused. (I rewound five times and still didn't catch it.)
Des enters the Rovers and seeing Mark having his lunch alone, offers to refresh his pint. At the bar, Jack is asking Jim about his business while Bet and Liz stand by. Jim complains that there's more noise at home at the moment, from the Websters "hyperactive" baby than there is at work. Jack says that he too, was a "hyperactive" baby, although they didn't use that word back then. Liz quips, "What happened to you Jack?" and Bet chimes in, "He had a charisma bypass!" Des now returns to the booth where Mark is seated, carrying a pint for each of them. (Hard to say which of the three staff served Des as they all seemed to be preoccupied talking to Jim while he went to the bar.)
When Des asks how the girls' promotion of the night before went, Mark wastes no time in relaying the news about Steph. Des' response is swift and angry. He loudly calls Mark a liar and challenges him to take it back. Both men on their feet, Mark, now collared by Des, sticks by his story and repeats that he saw Steph "knacking about with a fella" last night. Jim steps into the fray to pull the two apart just before they come to blows. Des pushes past Jim and Mark and giving the latter a look of disgust, makes a hasty retreat from the pub. In the aftermath, Mark looks around and sheepishly explains, "I was only trying to help." Bet snaps at him, "Then DON'T join the Samaritans, Sonny!"
Back in the cafe, Emily and Mavis are sat down for a cup of tea. Mavis, it seems, is too upset by the business of Derek and Angela to eat anything. She asks Emily if she thinks it possible that Derek is "practicing deceit". Emily carefully replies, that while anything is "possible" she doesn't believe for a minute that Derek is anything but a fine and decent man. Mavis, reassured somewhat by Emilys words, finds her appetite has returned and orders some lunch, a boiled egg and some buttered bread.
At the department store where Steph and Jenny work, Des has just come in. Steph is busily arranging a display when Des comes over and grabs her by the arm, demanding to know about her "fancy piece". As soon as she hears he's been talking to Mark, she cuts him short and dragging him over to the perfume counter, prevails upon Jenny to do some explaining. Des is skeptical about Jenny's story at first, then grudgingly tells her she'd better set the record straight and soon - preferably in the Rovers when it's very crowded!
In the Kabin, Rita remarks to Mavis that she's been very quiet since she returned from lunch. Mavis has a smile on her face and tells Rita she's just been thinking how unfair she's been to Derek these last few days. She now reckons that he has no choice in the matter of working with Angela and she should be more understanding and supportive. Rita is heartened to hear of the change and tells Mavis that she's doing the right thing. Mavis says she is planning a special evening for Derek when he gets home and goes to the phone to call him with the good news.
Jack happens into the Kabin and Rita prevails upon him to give her the benefit of his racing experience since Reg will be taking her to the track tomorrow. As they talk, we hear Mavis in the background on the phone: "But he can't be having lunch with Mrs Wilton - IM Mrs Wilton!" Upon realising that "Mrs Wilton" refers to Angela, Mavis hangs up and marches out of the back room in fury. As she returns to the counter to stand beside Rita, Jack launches into a wild speculation gleaned from a book he once read about a parallel universe. He tells Mavis that according to this book, Derek could actually be having lunch with her in a parallel universe, while she is here at work! Far from interested in what Jack has to say, Mavis angrily sputters that it's half past three and they (Derek and Angela) are *still* at lunch! (So much for Derek's special evening!)
Across the road, Des calls in to see Jenny and he isn't pleased to hear that she hasn't got around to telling Mark "the truth" yet. She'd better do it tonight, he tells her. When Des says that shed better also make sure that Mark knows Robert is really *her* boyfriend, she tells him *that's* her business! Des leaves her with the warning that shes in for a "damn good hiding" when Mark does find out. As he goes out the door she retorts, "Oh, and I suppose *youre* going to tell him?" "Yeah!" he sneers back, leaving her fretting.
Angie, who has been present during the confrontation, pleads for Jenny to come clean with Mark. She can't understand why Jenny doesn't just tell Mark the truth; why keep him dangling? Besides, doesn't she want to clear the field for Robert anyway? Jenny confesses that the field *isn't* clear for Robert, he's a married man. (Surprise, surprise, surprise!) Angie is taken aback by the news and cautions Jenny that shes bound to end up having her face rearranged - if not by Mark, by Robert's wife!
At the Websters', Des has dropped by to see Kevin in the hopes that he will be the one to tell Mark about Jennys other beau. He contends theyd be doing him a favour. Kevin and Sally dont seem overly surprised to hear what's been going on but Kevin tells Des he wants no part of this, he has to work with the guy, after all. Des says it's no use him saying anything, Mark wouldn't believe him. Sally runs upstairs to pick up the crying Rursie and Des takes his leave. When Sally comes back down with the baby, Kevin tells her hes off to fix another car "under the table". She argues that he'll get caught and if they need the money that much, perhaps she should take a job. Kevin laughs off the notion. "Your place is here, looking after her" he tells her, "besides, what baby-minder would put up with all that bawling?"
In the Rovers, Curly stands at the bar and moans to Jack about his problem with Kimberly. "First, she drops me. Then she asks for a transfer." Jack reckons that she'd make a good football manager!
Seeing Des come in, Mark goes over to him and apologises for what happened earlier. Des brushes it off as inconsequential and asks Mark if Kevin hasn't had a word with him yet. (Knowing full well that he hasn't - Des just left him moments earlier!) Mark's a bit puzzled at this but before he has a chance to question Des, Reg glides over to tell him what a wonderful job his "boss" (Kevin) did on his motor the other day. Reg says Mark should pay close attention, he could learn something from Kevin. This is too much for Mark and now its his turn to leave the pub in a huff.
At home with the Wiltons, Derek is just re-hanging Harrys cage after cleaning it and Mavis, wearing an angry scowl, is sitting on the sofa with her knitting. Derek takes a look at her and makes a plea for an end to "this ordeal by silence". She is still glowering over his and Angelas "three-hour business luncheon". Exasperated, Derek tells her that he refuses to listen to her silly suspicions any longer, that he was "not canoodling with Angela in some sleazy hotel room" as she seems to think! That really sets her off. She certainly hasn't mentioned "canoodling OR hotel rooms, sleazy or otherwise" and she thinks this is Derek's guilty conscience talking. Now, Dereks had enough. Donning his coat, he tells her he is going out for a walk. "But it's cold outside!" she protests. "Oh, no colder than a home where mistrust lurks in every corner!", he shouts back. (Excellent comeback, Derek!) Mavis is left to ruminate alone.
On a nearby street, Mark catches up with Kevin who is in the act of driving the car he's been attending to. Angry, he accuses Kevin of taking him for a mug. Kevin admits he's been fixing the odd motor on the side and apologises, saying he won't do it again. He endures more angry words from Mark and again says he is sorry. Mark is unrelenting and says he'll be watching him "like a hawk" from now on. Kevin, irritated that Mark won't let it go, blurts out, "Its not me you should be watching - it's that girlfriend of yours!" Mark is shaken by this but Kevin doesn't stick around to explain. As he roars off into the night, Mark runs after the car in a vain attempt to have him come back.
Mark, played by STUART WOLFENDEN, was brilliant in his role as the unwitting cuckold. This excellent episode written by HARRY DUFFIN, a name I don't recall seeing previously.
Thursday (3176, Friday 18 January 1991)
Opening show of two or three pigeons on the cobbles. Des is impatiently sounding his car horn, urging Jenny and Steph on. Just as they're finally getting in the car, mark drives up, hoping to drive Jenny to work but Jenny coolly puts him off. He really wants to talk to her but she doesn't seem interested and half heartedly makes plans to meet him in the Rovers tonight. In the car, Jenny wonders what to do about him. Steph tells her what to do about him (tell him! i.e. her other boyfriend) and Des tells her what not to do with him (mislead Mark to thinking that her new boyfriend is actually Steph's lover).
A close up of someone lacing up work boots. Kevin and Sally discuss Kevin's moonlighting. Kevin defends Mark who was right to blow him out after catching him using the garage to do work on the side. The worst of it is, though, that in the heat of their argument, Kevin implied that Jenny wasn't to be trusted, that Mark should be spying on her instead of him. Oh Kevin!
Derek and mavis have their breakfast at the table in front of their window. (what a nice place to have your dining table!) Derek has a stiff neck from sleeping on the sofa which was his own choice, Mavis is cool and righteous. Derek didn't feel he had any choice, having felt more warmth from the fridge than in their shared bedroom. Mavis tsks, 3 hours for lunch! Derek winces, not that again! But Derek has a theory that Victor, as Iago, is trying to destroy Mavis and Derek, aka Desdemona and Othello, by trying to make Mavis jealous, using Angela as the bait. A classic Shakespearean situation! Why? because Derek won the hand of the fair Mavis and Victor cannot accept defeat. He even married a replica of Mavis in Yvonne! Mavis's lip trembles at such a hurtful thing to say. Not the theory, but Derek's comparing her to Yvonne! The woman is a positive nightmare and she runs from the table in tears.
At Bettabuys, Vera urges Curly to talk to Kim but Curly is wearing his professional hat. He is paged to the office so Vera then goes to try Kimberly's patience. She finds out that Kimberly has put in for a transfer to another store. She understands that Kim doesn't want to see Curly ever again so invites her to tea tonight so the lovebirds can talk it over. (eternal optimist is our Vera!)
In the office, Reg asks Norman if he's ill as he's exhibiting alarming symptoms. Is he listless, sleepless? trouble with his water? Because he's noticed Norman spending several extra minutes staring at things like boxes of cereal and aubergines, lost in thought. Curly apologizes and says he can't help it. Reg passes Kimberly's transfer papers across the desk, he is saddened to see his highly thought of deputy manager turned to straw over a shelf stacker. He does understand the pain of lost love but the solution is to focus on something else, something bigger! A trolley race! Curly is given the task of organizing it, raffles, prizes, an appearance of Miss Bettabuys (excitement mounts, could this be the first appearance of Raquel, she asks hopefully) Reg rushes off to another task somewhere, leaving Curly sitting in the office looking distinctly subdued by the prospect. An idea sparks and he picks up the transfer papers and slyly puts them in his pocket.
In the Kabin, Jack is trying to convince Rita to put a bet on for him when she goes to the track. There's always lots of bookies there so it would be easy, as he names off several oddly named blokes that i wouldn't trust with a shilling! Rita doesn't want to get involved in that, even wondering if it is even legal to bet for another person. Rita advises that Jack save his brass instead of giving it away to Sid Whatsis of Scunthorpe so Jack turns and leaves, mumbling and grumbling audibly about summat and nothing. Mavis emerges from the back room with cups of tea and a sigh. She wishes she were going somewhere this afternoon. She gives Rita Derek's Shakespearean theory that Victor is using Angela to make Mavis jealous and that Victor is still jealously carrying a torch for her. She's dubious of it though. Rita asks who's really jealous of whom but Mavis sharply protests that she isn't jealous of Angela thought she doesn't really like Derek seeing her. What's the point of being divorced if you spend three hours having lunch on the pretext of a business meeting!
Mark and Kevin get into it again with Kevin re-apologizing and promising to make it up to Mark and to the garage. Kevin is more angry thought, because although he did get angry at Kevin for moonlighting, he was in the right but Kevin had no right to get snide about Jenny in retaliation, calling it sour grapes. kevin gets a warning about calling Jenny a tart ever again.
Rita shows up at the Rovers in a smart suit, black skirt with a yellow tunic and a black wrap over one shoulder. She is sporting a snappy black bolero style hat as well, to the admiration of the punters. She's going to the races! Angie hurries in looking for Jenny who was supposed to be home at dinnertime to warn jenny not to use the washer which has flooded. Rita is dismayed but assured that it's all mopped up now. Angie's hopping and crouching to the point where i'm wondering if she shouldn't have used the toilet before she left home! After Angie leaves, Reg shows up in a natty double breasted gray-green suit. He offers Bet some cash to treat the punters to a drink on him but has no time to stay and offers Rita an escort to her limo. What? your mini or have you nicked a shopping trolley? They go in good spirits, waving to the others on their way out the door.
Jenny isn't at home because she's tentatively approaching Mark in the garage. A few innocuous things are discussed and Mark mentions that he had wanted to talk to her earlier over something Kevin had said but never mind now. That has broken the ice, apparently and Jenny finds a way to tell Mark that she wants to finish with him. It was ok but not earth moving and they really have nothing in common. Mark is hurt and guesses there is someone else, which isn't denied by Jenny. He asks her if Kevin knows to which she replies with some shame, probably, and she won't say who the man is. Mark scares Jenny when he smashes a mug against the wall but she is in no personal danger of injury, he assures her. Jenny says she's sorry and leaves Mark with a heart as shattered as the mug.
When Kevin comes back from dinner, Mark tells him he's been given the push by Jenny. Kevin confirms that he knew Jenny was seeing someone else. Mark is bitter and calls Jenny and Steph both slags. Hey now! Kevin corrects one point, the man Mark was told was Steph's lover was actually Jenny's. Mark caught her out and she said the first thing she thought of to cover up. (oh, i see, so Steph isn't a slag but Jenny is? pretty strong words!)
Mr. Watts asks Kimberly a professional question and he gives her a list of things to do that afternoon. But he seems to want to steer the conversation to a personal level but she's not having that and he ends up slinking away.
Back at the garage, Sally arrives to give Kevin the phone number of a Mr. Seymour who wants Kevin to look at his car (well Kevin didn't actually say he'd stop moonlighting, did he?). She wonders if he's doing the right thing but Kevin says he doesn't care, after the day he's had putting up with Mark and he whispers that Jenny's broken off with Mark. Sally is sympathetic for poor Mark but Kevin isn't and changes the subject to the appointment she had with the baby clinic that morning. Sally tells him all was well with Rosie and she's just one of those babies that don't sleep much but is fine and healthy just the same. Kevin asks did they give her something for sleeplessness? Course not! Well, he asks, did they give me anything for it? They coo a bit over the baby but Mark spoils the mood when he comes out of the office moaning about being made a mug of.
Angie and Jenny discuss the broken washer but Angie wants to hear more about Jenny's boyfriend, Robert who is married! She urges Jenny to give up some info but Jenny stays closed mouth except to say he's everything and more!
Mavis is holding down the fort at the Kabin. Des is asking about Rita's excursion to the track. He leads Mavis on by telling her the alarming story of first time gamblers who develop a taste for it and one man he knows actually lost his shop the first time he went to the track, he got caught up in it so much. Mavis's face shows more and more apprehension until Mark who was lurking at the magazine rack, interrupts and makes a remark about Des being a big joker. More moaning about making mugs of people and he leaves. Mavis still doesn't seem totally convinced that Des was joking and she distractedly muses that she doesn't think Rita is the type to get so carried away and lose her shop!
After work that evening, Kevin goes to the house of Mr. Seymour. The car's symptoms are described and after a little chat about garage prices and Kevin's lack of sleep because of a new baby, Kevin tentatively diagnoses the trouble as alternator problems. He wants to drive it around the block to be sure though. (I got suspicious at this point that this man might be setting Kevin up, a friend or mate of Mark's or his father's? but it might not be. We dont' find out today at least)
Back in the pub that night, Reg is bragging how lucky Rita was. Beginner's luck, Rita says. Jack is glum behind the bar. Turns out that Rita was reminded of the name of the horse Jack had mentioned to her, and put a £5 bet on it. Did it win? of course! Jack dryly informs them all it came in 6 to 1! Story of his life, that! Rita had a three race winning streak as it happens, much to Jack's dismay. Rita is tickled pink but thinks she'll quit while she's ahead. Over in a booth, Martin and Gail listen to Curly witter on about Kimberly's transfer. He understands that one might want a change of scene and a new challenge but wonders why she won't talk to him about it. Couldn't be because you're boring, Martin puts forth. No, No, it can't be that (oh?), Curly says, explaining that he and Kimberly were well suited to each other (that i believe), with a sense of mutual excitement (well if Kimberly wouldn't give it up, he couldn't have been that exciting! LOL). Curly has decided that deep down, Kimberly doesn't want the transfer so he's made sure it won't get to head office! (uh oh!) Curly heads for the head and Martin invites Mark to sit with them. But Mark shovels another load of self pity, declining the invitation.
Kevin drives down a dark street lined with rubbish and an old oil drum that seems to be on fire. A car comes out of a side street and Kevin has to swerve to avoid it hitting him side on and he crashes the car into a pile of construction barriers and I think, hits the wall of a building. Kevin is in deep doo-doo now!
Writer - STEPHEN MALLATRATT Director - JUNE
HOWSON
Mr Seymour CLIFF HOWELLS
Friday (3177, Monday 21 January 1991)
At Kevin and Sally's they are discussing the car situation, and Kevin explains that the damage to Mr. Seymour's car is not covered by either Mr. Seymour's, or Kevin's or the garage's insurance as he wasn't working for the garage at the time of the accident. Kevin tells Sally not to worry.
At the Mini Market, Audrey is moaning to Phyllis about having to work there and offers her a job. Alf treats them both to a speech on how rewarding it can be running a shop. Ken drops in to tell Alf that the water hearer is on the blink again, but Alf is not very interested.
Bettabuys is where Curly is standing gazing at Kimberly working, but she can't wait for her transfer to come through. Reg prods Curly to get moving on putting up the posters for the trolley dash. Kimberly inquires of both of them of the status of her transfer but nothing to report from head office.
At the cafÈ, Martin tells Alma that Curly hasn't processed Kimberly's transfer yet, and also tells her that Mark is upset because no one told him what Jenny was up to.
On a tea break at the garage, Kevin tells Mark about wanting to put the damage to Mr. Seymour's car through the garage insurance, but Mark says he has to think about it.
Alf's speech to Audrey about running the shop continues, as Liz comes in to pick up a few things for the Rovers. Audrey questions her about Ken still pestering Deirdre, and Liz tells her no, but Alf pipes up that Ken is now pestering him! As Liz leaves, Alf resumes his speech until Audrey tells enough or she's walking out.
Rita comes into the Rovers where Mark is nursing a pint, and when she asks him about Jenny she gets snapped at. Angie and Ben are sitting in a booth and Rita approaches them to ask about Jenny and she finds out that Jenny and Mark are no longer together. Mark later sees Angie and Ben laughing and assumes it is about him.
Over at the Webster's, Kevin tells Sally that he has asked Mark to put the claim through the garage and Mark is going to think about it. Mr. Seymour drops by with the estimate for the damage and it is for £1250. Kevin seems very confident about having it go through the garage insurance.
At Bettabuys, Curly has posted the trolley race posters and Reg is pleased with that but not pleased with Curly's mooning over Kimberly. Reg suggests badminton for working his frustrations out.
At the garage, Kevin asks Mark if he's thought about it yet but Mark wants Kevin to stop nagging at him.
Tracy and Ken are in the café and Ken tells her of all the problems at his flat. Tracy suggests that they make a list and writes it up for her dad. Sally tells Martin that she hopes that Mark will let the claim go through the garage insurance.
Rita and Reg are having tea in her flat and Reg tells her about the trolley dash and tries to give her a bunch of tickets, but Rita only accepts one.
Vera and Kimberly are pricing cans at Bettabuys when Curly comes up and compliments Kimberly on her dog food display. Kimberly again asks about her transfer and is again told by Curly that it hasn't come through. Kimberly says she is going to ring head office to find out why - and Curly snaps! He pulls her application out of his pocket, tells her it has not gone and is not going to head office, rips up the pieces and throws them, all the while shouting "No, No, No"!
Back to the garage, where Mark tells Kevin that he didn't do him any favours telling him about Jenny, and so, no, he can't put the claim through the garage insurance.
Alma is sweeping up at the café when Mike comes in, telling her that the removal men are coming tomorrow and taking his stuff to Jackie's, and so she needs to get what's left of her gear out of the flat. Alma tells him to just burn whatever is there as she doesn't want it.
At the Rovers, Curly is justifying his holding on to Kimberly's transfer because it is his responsibility to hold on to her as she is a good employee. Mark is playing darts on his own, when Martin goes over and asks him if he is going to help Kevin - Mark retorts no, he is sick of folk walking all over him.
Kevin tells Sally that Mark won't let the damage claim go through the garage, and Sally tells him she will just have to get a job. Their shouting wakes the baby.
Terry Seymour: CLIFF HOWELLS
Writer: PETER WHALLEY Director: RICHARD SIGNY
Monday (3178, Wednesday 23 January 1991)
Kevin takes the baby from Sally and walks her around the floor while Sally worries about the £1250 bill to fix teh car that Kevin crashed. Kevin promises to get out of the mess and remarks that the bill is probably inflated with all other repairs that needed doing before the crash. Not that it's cheating, exactly, it's just what you do when someone else is paying. Kevin decides to propose that he do all the work personally, it saves £600 Labour and £200 VAT. Sally is supportive and Kevin is confident.
Alf has a look at Ken's ancient water heater and trying to fancy foot his way out of fixing it by implying it had been broke since Ken had let the flat. Ken repeats that it's old and worn out and thinks Alf, as landlord, should replace it. Alf has dire warnings of rent increases and Ken counters with threats of a rent dispute tribunal. Audrey comes out completely on Ken's side (the walls of the flat are green just as today but it's a lot sunnier and brighter then than it is now for some reason!)
In the Kabin, Liz and Rita discuss her day out at the races and about Reg. Rita isn't all fizzy with love but finds Reg amusing and it's nice to get out of the flat now and then. Rita tells Liz that Reg and his wife have separated and she's living in New Zealand. Curly is lurking in the background and hears this and he reacts but says nothing. He pays for his magazine and leaves with something on his mind.
Kevin backs a car into the garage after a test drive and discovers a visitor. Mr. Seymour has come. Kevin quietly offers to do the work but is turned down flat. Mr. Seymour won't put his car in the hands of the man that was supposed to be responsible for it's well being. Kevin pleads poor but Mr. S. is not receptive so Kevin promises he'll get the money. Seymour leaves and Kevin gets more stick from Mark. The day gets worse, later, when Sally takes it upon herself to go to Mark on Kevin's behalf (behind his back) She gets nowhere and Kevin gets even more abuse from Mark for sending her to beg his case, which of course he didn't.
Reg needs Mr. Watts to handle a personnel problem. No it's not Miss Taylor, though he does want to find out why Miss Taylor left in tears yesterday and is not in today. No, it's that Raquel on the meat counter. He wants Curly to persuade Raquel, the store's Miss Bettabuy, to wear a swimsuit to draw the prize winner at the trolley dash contest tomorrow but she's not keen. (I could only see her from afar and the part was not credited but it looked very much like Our Raquel Wolstenhulme, tall and statuesque though her hair was tucked up under a cap. So I'll say this is her first appearance.) Vera interrupts, wanting to know why she can't enter the trolley race since she spends as much money in the store as non-staff but Reg fobs her off to Curly and twitches off.
Liz returns some bad apples to the shop, gladly and apologetically exchanged by Audrey, much to Alf's chagrin. Alf moans about profits but audrey will have none of it and she insists he get a proper plumber in to check Ken's water heater. She puts on her coat and swans out, warning him it will be cheaper to replace than a new shop or a funeral when the heater explodes. Point taken. The plumber comes in that afternoon and does his estimate. He tells Alf that it can be repaired. Or could be if you could still get the parts but they don't make 'em any more and it will cost £300 for a replacement, on special offer. Alf is shocked. D'you want it then?
In the cafe, Alma coos over Gail's baby. Gail wonders how Alma felt (seeing Mike? clearing out the flat? didn't see yesterday's show.) alma insists to all, including herself that she didn't feel a twinge. alma makes an uncomplimentary remark about herself, eliciting a supportive response from Gail, They don't get much classier than Alma. alma envies Gail for a loving Martin who worships her. Audrey arrives, has a look at the baby, and regrets that the dear baby boy will grow up to be a man and tells them about her getting flack because of Ken's been riding alf about the water heater.
An irate Mother Taylor hen frog-marches a shaking Kimberly up the aisle of Bettabuys to confront Mr. Holdsworth. She goes up one side of him and down the other for not doing anything at all. Eh? He is informed that Curly tore up Kimberly's transfer papers in her face, assumingly with Reg's approval or at least indifference. Reg is astonished and swears he knew nothing about it and Curly will have the severest of reprimands for it. He offers Mrs. Taylor a free ticket in the trolley race as a peace offering but is firmly turned down. She thinks if he paid as much attention to his staff as he did to mindless pursuit of profit the world would be a better place. She turns and marches out, followed by Kimberly who was supposed to look dismayed and upset but looked more like she was trying not to laugh! LOL
Mike is filtering through some old papers at his flat when Alma arrives. She is uncomfortable to find him there and had only come by for her music box. The atmosphere thickens considerably when Jackie comes through from one of the other rooms. A few words are politely spoken and Jackie and Mike beat a hasty retreat back to the office, leaving Alma to clear out the rest of her things.
Reg reprimands Curly over his actions. Are you suggesting I let personal feelings interfere with my professional career, Curly defends? (of course he is!) Reg warns Curly that he must learn to detach himself or his career will be sadly shortened at Bettabuys. Reg will see to Kimberly's transfer himself. NO! Curly orders. Reg says it's not worth the aggravation of being accosted by Mrs. Taylor. Curly plays his trump card and threatens to tell Rita that Reg's wife is, yes, in New Zealand but only on holiday. They aren't separated after all!!! Out on the floor of the store, Reg and Curly come to a compromise. Reg will hold on to Kimberly's transfer for one week, giving Curly time to work on her and Curly will say nothing to Rita. Curly is determined he won't lose Kimberly, won't let Reg transfer the most important thing in his life out of his life.
Curly's day just keeps getting worse Vera finds out that Kimberly's mother was offered a trolley race ticket but Jack wasn't allowed to have one because he is married to a staff member. Vera's mouth is in full gear, (you can imagine) and Curly retreats back upstairs, his appetite gone but Vera just blames his broken heart for his lack of hunger.
Sally sorts the laundry when Kevin gets home. He gets furious at Sally for interfering, trying to help or not. He makes her cry with his hollering but he comforts her then, and apologizes and promises to make it right somehow. Don't worry anymore, forget about it. He'll look after her.
Alma wants to close up but Ken is still in the cafe doing the newspaper crossword. They have a friendly chat and she offers to share her evening meal with him. His eyes light up but then his face falls (who can tell the difference?) when he says he has a lot of papers to mark and asks for a rain check. She is a bit embarassed with the rejection but takes it fairly well overall. Ken realizes she wants to close the cafe and apologizes and says he should get on his way and leave her to it. Definite warm and fuzzies growing there.
In the pub, Martin buys Kevin a drink and talks him into a game of darts. Reg describes a movie to Rita, one about an office manager who's staff are slaughtered and he mush escape the murderer. He draws the obvious parallel to his life at the shop these days, making Rita laugh by comparing himself to the star, Robert Redford. Over by the dart board, Kevin is venting to Martin about Mark and who should walk up but the man in question. Mark seems to think he can be friends with kevin after hours but is given a cool reception to his offer of playing the winner by both Kevin and Martin. He soon realizes that Kevin has been complaining about him and a loud argument ensues. It all ends up with Mark firing Kevin with all ears in the pub listening! eh oh!
Terry Seymour - CLIFF HOWELLS Plumber - HARRY
GOODIER
Writer - KEN BLAKSON Director - RICHARD SIGNY
Tuesday (3179, Friday 25 January 1991)
Sally and Kevin are hanging clothes on the line and talking about Mark sacking Kevin. Sally reminds Kevin that although she knows his pride is at stake, there are other things that are important to him now. On cue, Rosie starts wailing in the house and Sally goes to see to her.
At Bettabuys, Reg tells Curly he wants the trolley dash to go smoothly this afternoon. Curly tells Reg that he is having trouble with Raquel -- since she has become Miss Bettabuys, she has become more temperamental. Raquel's parents think the bathing costume she has to wear is too revealing - but Reg chose the costume and has every confidence that Curly can handle Raquel.
Kevin is all alone, sitting dejectedly at a table at the café, while Phyllis asks Alma if she is going to the Bettabuys trolley dash. Phyllis has 3 tickets and hopes to win. Martin brings Kevin some toast and Kevin tells him that if Mark wants him back, he'll have to ask, and then Kevin will think about it.
Over at the Rovers, Reg and Rita are having a drink when Reg reminds her of the trolley dash at 4:00. Rita will try to be there. Alf comes in and moans to Jack about Ken and his demands to fix up the flat.
Martin drops in to see Mark at the garage to try to talk some sense into him - but no luck....and, Mark has hired someone to replace Kevin.
Ken, after some lunch at the café, invites Alma around for a meal tonight. Alma is very pleased! A little later, Martin, spreader of joy and good news, tells Gail and Alma about Mark replacing Kevin, and Gail teases Alma about her upcoming dinner at Ken's.
It's trolley dash time at Bettabuys, and Reg starts stalling the draw until Rita arrives. Raquel is wriggling around and trying to adjust her bathing costume as she feels embarrassed dressed in so little. Curly starts the preamble to the draw with quite a few interested customers and staff watching. Finally, Rita gets there, and as Curly goes on and on and on about the rules of the draw, Phyllis heckles him to get things going, and Reg pulls the winning ticket. Raquel finally gets to do something other than stand there, and she reads the winning ticket. And the winner is ...... Rita! Raquel is supposed to run through the store with Rita but she refuses on account of the skimpy bathing costume, so Curly does the honours 3, 2, 1, and they're off! Phyllis and Vera whine about Rita winning - them that has gets more, in their view.
Kevin returns home all excited because he has had the offer of a job, until Sally bursts his bubble and tells him that Mark has hired someone to replace him at the garage. And Mr. Seymour has called twice today. Kevin seems to have mistaken Mark for decent bloke - and is glad that he didn't go crawling back to the garage this morning.
Oh, the excitement - although Vera thinks the dash has been more than 2 minutes, and Phyllis agrees. Curly and Rita come careening down the aisle, with an overloaded cart, leaving a trail of canned goods on the floor behind them. Rita then announces that she wants everything to go to Weatherfield General - Curly thinks that is a wonderful gesture, but Reg doesn't look too pleased.
Mr. Seymour drops by the Webster's to tell Kevin that he has taken his car in for repairs. He also mentions that he dropped by the garage today only to find that Kevin no longer works there - so should he be worried that they are going to move away too? Sally pipes up no, and Kevin assures Mr. Seymour that he will get his money. After Mr. Seymour leaves, Kevin and Sally argue about how they are going to pay him back, and Kevin says that he doesn't know how, but he will get the money.
Over at the Duckworth's, Curly is mooning to Vera and Jack how beautiful Kimberly looked today. Vera urges action but then goes on about the trolley dash being a fiddle. Curly tells her there is no way - Reg wouldn't do such a thing. Jack heads off to work with Vera insisting that Reg is so twisted that he could hide behind a corkscrew!
Up at Rita's flat, she is telling Reg that she thinks the trolley dash was a fiddle, and after much protesting, Reg finally admits it. He tries to justify it but it doesn't look like Rita is buying it!
At the Rovers, Curly is telling Jack that it wasn't Kimberly that chucked him but her mum and dad. Jack tells Curly that he should just find another bird, but Curly insists that he and Kimberly were made for each other, two of a kind. Curly gets all worked up and decides that he is going over there to talk to Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, leaving his drink behind, to Jack's dismay. Vera thinks that it is working with Reg that is a bad influence on Curly and she tells Phyllis that she thinks the whole trolley thing was a fiddle - Rita is Reg's girlfriend after all. Alf and Audrey come in and ask Liz if Ken has been in - Liz hasn't seen him, and Audrey tells Alf that they won't as Ken is entertaining her tonight at the flat.
Now to Ken's flat, where Ken and Alma are enjoying their meal and each others company.
As Curly walks to the Taylor's, he practices his speech. When he approaches, what does he see but Kimberly and some bloke, kissing and cuddling on the doorstep, and Mrs. Taylor opens the door and welcomes them both in.
Paul: GAVIN STANLEY Adrian Gosthorpe: PHILIP
BROOK
Writer: JOHN STEVENSON Director: RICHARD SIGNY
Wednesday (3180, Monday 28 January 1991)
First thing in the morning and we see Vera in robe and curlers fetching in the milk and looking singularly uninspired. She goes into the sitting room where Jack's reading his paper over breakfast. Curly's gone in to work early and Vera reckons he is going to take Holdsworth to task for "sharp practices". She's still upset about the trolley dash and when Jack remarks about the amount of noise Curly made coming in last night, she assumes he was also bothered by Rita winning the trolley dash. Neither of them is aware of why Curly is really upset. (Seeing Kimberly with another man the previous evening.)
At the Websters', Kevin is just going off to his new job at Walker's garage. He tells Sally it's going to require a lot of effort to work as part of team after being his own boss. She's sure he'll be fine and that they'll have the money to pay Mr. Seymour back in time, not to worry. Just after he leaves, little Rursie starts to wail and Sally's face belies that she's not quite as confident about the future as she lets on...
As Bettabuys opens for the day, Raquel and Kimberly take their places at their cash registers. No sooner has Kimberly sat down, than Curly comes bounding over to her and demands to know who she was with last night. She's horrified that he's been "spying" on her but Curly acts like he has every right to know. He insists that she tell him who it was she was necking with on her doorstep last night. She indignantly refuses to talk to him and Curly, seeing he is getting nowhere, storms off, flailing his arms in helpless frustration and mumbling to himself.
Oblivious to Curly's despair, Vera is busy scrubbing shelves when Reg walks over to her. With a tug at his tie and a satisfied grin, he remarks to her about the success of the trolley dash. A "public relations coup de grace", he calls it. Vera retorts that it worked out for Rita Fairclough all right!
In the Kabin, Rita is her usual friendly self with Phyllis but is confused by the elder woman's apparent aloofness. Phyllis can't keep her feelings to herself for long and tells Rita there's talk that the trolley dash was fixed. She reckons it was Rita's guilty conscience that inspired her to donate the food to charity. Rita takes exception to this notion but Phyllis won't be persuaded she wasn't in on the fix. "It's no more a coincidence than if the Pope won the Irish Sweepstakes!"
Ken is in Alf's shop loading up on biscuits as it's his turn to stock the staff lounge. Audreh fishes for information about Ken and Alma's dinner the evening before but is disappointed when Ken's only scoop is how impressed Alma was by his cooking. On his way out, he leaves his key with Alf on the expectation that there'll be a workman around today to fix his hot water tank. Alf tries to refuse the key, telling his lodger there'll be no workman today or any other day, but Ken continues out the door, managing to ignore him.
Turning to Audreh in frustration, Alf complains about Ken's demands, there's nothing wrong with his flat as far as he's concerned! Audreh's not even listening. She's still thinking about what might be developing between Ken and Alma. She wonders if they'll suit each other since, in her estimation, Alma is "a bit common". Alf, still on about the repairs, says he won't be fixing the flat "just so Barlow can be up there entertaining his fancy women!" Audreh looks at him and implores him to consider whether it wouldn't be worth a few hundred quid to help two lonely people come together? "NO!" he retorts.
Back at Bettabuys, Curly takes another stab at finding out about Adrian, ordering Kimberly to talk to him as her boss. Finally she tells him her companion the night before was Adrian Gosthorpe, whom she's known since childhood. As it happens, Kimberly's and Adrian's mothers are cousins and furthermore, Adrian is staying with the Taylors for the time being. "Staying in the same house?!?" Curly is once again shocked speechless until he casts around and sees Vera cleaning shelves in the aisle behind him.
Off he goes to confront Vera - did *she* know about "this Adrian Gosthorpe?" Of course, Vera's in the dark but that doesn't stop her from speculating that it sounds as if Adrian's feet are well under the table, a notion that Curly takes no comfort in. He's rapidly off down the aisle again, talking to himself and flailing those arms like a windmill. Reg, who witnessed the exchange, hangs back until Curly walks away before asking him whether the conversation was business related. Curly tells him it was personal and stalks off again.
Kevin's home for lunch and pleased to see Sally looking so nice. His first morning on the job went okay, he tells her. The baby's quiet for a change so it looks as though they'll be able to have their lunch in peace. (Liver and onions - ugh!)
Reg drops into the Kabin to see Rita on his lunch hour but she isn't in a very social mood. The fallout from the contest being fixed is bothering her. He tells her that "fix" isn't a Bettabuys word. He only wanted the winner to be an "ABC-one", someone who could reflect Bettabuys image properly to the media. She relays what Phyllis Pearce told her and that she is disturbed people are talking about a fix and implying she was party to it. Reg seems outraged for her sake but when she kiboshes his suggestion of a "good slander lawyer", he casually moves to suggest an outing to a wine bar. She thinks it would be better not to be seen together in public for the time being. Reg suggests they treat the locals' tittle-tattle as royalty does, recognize that it's inspired by envy and ignore it. Royal strategies notwithstanding, Rita stands firm: "Until tongues stop wagging - no wine bars." Reg relents, "Quite right - we've got to play this very Elizabeth Taylor-Richard Burton... To the paparazzi, we are just good friends, but *we* know the truth!" Rita has a look of quiet desperation on her face.
Seated in a booth at the Rovers, Audreh is trying to pump Alma about her evening with Ken. Audreh repeats Ken's assessment that the evening was "a total success", which she interprets as meaning that Alma had to "sing for (her) supper". Alma assures Audreh that she's on the wrong track, she and Ken are only "mates".
At the bar, Jack is playing up to Reg, "It must be tough at the top". Reg readily affirms this, "Oh yes, mind and body operating constantly at Mach I!" :-) Spotting Phyllis at the bar, Reg seizes the opportunity to smooth her ruffled feathers and offers to buy her a glass of port or sherry. Still peeved about Rita winning, she proceeds to order a double whiskey before telling Reg what she thinks about his trolley dash. Reg tries to cajole her out of the idea that there was anything amiss about the contest but she tells him she knows it was a fix, she had it "straight from the horse's mouth". Annoyed now, Reg asks, "And which bandy chapped-out old nag was that, Mrs. Pearce?" With Jack looking on in trepidation, she motions towards him and replies, "His missus - Vera Duckworth!"
Sally's day is going downhill fast. Rursie is fussing again and Sal looks ready to tear her hair out when there comes a knock at the door. It's Mr. Seymour and he's come to deliver the bill for his car repairs. He would like his cheque now if you please. Sally explains that she and Kevin propose to pay him £400 now and ten quid a week. This is totally unacceptable to him; he wants to be paid in full now or he'll see them in court. As he leaves, Sally turns her attention back to the crying baby and shouts in frustration at her, "Be quiet, can't you!"
At Bettabuys again, Curly tells Kimberly that his suspicion that Adrian staying with the Taylors is just "cover" for illicit goings on. "Roger the Lodger!" he taunts as she moves away from him as quickly as she can. Once again, Reg witnesses the scene and stepping forward, demands of Curly whether it was another "personal" conversation. Curly affirms that it was and Reg wants to know if they were discussing him. Not bothering to hide what a ridiculous notion he thinks that is, Curly says they weren't. Reg persists, "Are you sure?" Curly explodes: "Of course I'm sure! I ought to know when I'm talking about someone or not!" Not quite placated with this, Reg casts around and seeing Vera busy at her shelf-scrubbing, asks Curly, "What about Mrs. Duckworth - has she ever spoken about me?" Fed up with the interrogation, Curly responds, "Oh yes! She never *stops* talking about you!" The irony in his voice is lost on Reg. With a jerk of his head and a jut of his chin, the fuse is lit. "Right!" he says...
As darkness falls on the street, Ken is returning home from work. Meeting Alf outside the corner shop, he reclaims his key as Alf tells him it won't be of any use to him leaving it again. As Ken lets himself in, Alf continues that there's nothing wrong with the flat and Ken shouldn't expect "luxuries" for what he's paying. Ken turns to face the grocer, telling him that if he has illusions of growing fat on the profits from the flat while he lives in squalor, he can forget it. Alf follows his tenant upstairs, reminding him all the way of the favour he did him, letting him take the flat in the first place. At the top of the stairs, Ken closes the door on Alf's shouting and Alf, turning to go down again, misses his step and tumbles down the long stairway. (I thought Alf did a remarkably good job falling before realising that they used a double for this scene - see credits.) Ken rushes to assist him but Alf waves him away when Ken suggests it must have been the rotten floorboard at the top of the stairs that caused his fall. Audreh, hearing what she thought was a "piano falling down them stairs", comes running from the shop and with her help, Alf limps back into the shop.
As the Bettabuy employees clock out at the end of the day, Reg complains to Curly that he's feeling stressed enough without his own employees "torpedoing" him. Curly's not listening because he's keeping watch for Kimberly. When he sees her, he takes off after her, leaving Reg to complain to himself.
Kevin comes home late (being the new guy, he had to stay and tidy up) to find Sally ready to fall apart. She hands him the bill from Seymour and laments about the miserable day she's had. Kevin wrings his hands over the bill for a minute but when Sally projects they'll lose their home and he'll end up in prison over the debt, he tells her not to be silly. As she sits and weeps, he gives her a squeeze and tells her it'll come out okay. He doesn't seem too sure about that himself.
Alf and Audreh are shutting up shop for the day when they hear the strains of classical music from the flat above. One of them calls it "rubbish" while the other thinks it's "romantic". (You can guess who holds which opinion.) Alf conjectures that Alma is visiting and tells Audreh she ought to warn her friend about Ken, he might be some kind of sex maniac! To support his theory, he points out that Ken has "left his wife, he's had *three* wives and now, he's up there playing soppy music!" He continues, "He's probably up there now, walking around in a smoking jacket - and heaven knows what he's smoking!" Audreh, noticing Alf favouring his ankle since his fall, remarks that he's being foolish by trying to save money on the flat though it might end up costing him a week in bed. "I wouldn't give him the satisfaction..." he snorts, "rather walk on my hands and knees first!"
Curly has followed Kimberly to the Building Society and now watches from the shadows, seething, as she greets Adrian and the two go off together. Seeing two young women left waiting on the step, Curly walks over and pretends to know Adrian. He is gratified to hear that Adrian is every inch the prat he had him down for. According to one of the girls, he acts like he's the branch manager even though he's only the mortgage manager.
Vera's among the last to leave the store for the day and she's waylaid by Mr. Holdsworth on her way out. He's just tripped over the bucket that she left in one of the aisles and now angrily demands that she clean up the mess. She protests that the cleaners will see to it, she's seen enough of that bucket today "to feel like its Siamese twin!" She then suggests that he wouldn't ask Miss Bettabuys (Raquel) to scrub shelves, and accuses him of playing favourites. That's the last straw for Reg - he fires her on the spot! Vera is absolutely stunned to hear this and guilelessly wonders what she has done to deserve this. His vitriol is evident as he tells her not to "come the innocent". He calls her a snake in the grass and a born trouble maker. Before sending her off, he leans over and rips her name tag off her blouse. Poor Vera is left to absorb her fate, looking lost and bewildered.
Raquel Wolstenhulme: SARAH LANCASHIRE Terry
Seymour: CLIFF HOWELLS Adrian Gosthorpe: PHILIP BROOK Stunt Double:
TERRANCE PLUMMER
Writer LESLIE DUXBURY
Thursday (3181, Wednesday 30 January 1991)
Kevin is getting ready for work and Sally is (still?) sorting laundry (if she isn't holding that baby, she's sorting little baby things). They are squabbling as usual over the £1250 bill. Lots of "what ifs" are flung about and Kevin says Seymour will just have to settle for Kevin's offer of 400 plus 10 a week. If he takes them to court, they'll deal with it then. Sally's near to hysteria and won't be comforted. (With all that tension in the house, it's no wonder the baby isn't sleeping!)
Now that Vera's been sacked for shooting off her gob and just generally getting up Mr. Holdsworth's nose, she has plenty more to say. You can just hear her, can't you? Firing off defensive volleys, telling Jack that firing her just proves that what she said about the trolley race being a fix must be true. Jack mumbles around forkfulls of egg in his mouth and is full of "told you so's", you should have kept yer gob shut and she best get herself down to the job center but Vera seems to have other ideas. Later before she goes out, she tries a phone number but gets a busy signal so leaves the number on a slip of paper by the phone for later.
Curly, from several aisles away, mournfully watches Kimberly on the cash register. Reg saunters up to have a word with Curly about Mrs. Duckworth's firing. He realizes Curly is in a sticky position. He doesn't see that Curly is paying no attention whatsoever but is paged to the telephone just then so will continue the (one-sided) conversation later. Curly takes matters in to his own hands and uses business to open a conversation with his beloved, asking her to close the till and restock the tinned peas. She's brusque and business like in reply. But Curly will insist on asking her what Adrian has got and can offer her that he can't? This angers Kimberly and she hollers at him to just let her get on with her job and she leaves in anger, passing a returning Reg. Reg picks up where he left off, warning Curly he must not try to persuade him to rehire Vera but Curly couldn't care at this point whether the whole staff is sacked and tells his boss so before they part company.
Alf hops around the shop in his injured ankle, playing martyr looks like to me. He's insisting he has to be there because you know he doesn't approve of how Audrey would run the shop in his absence (into the ground, by Alf's reckoning!) Audrey believes she would have managed but Alf sits down heavily on a stool and attends to the wholesaler's list. More arguments about Audrey's management style until Phyllis enters Even she tells Alf he should be home resting, does her business and leaves after telling an alarming tale of someone else she knows who hurt an ankle and never walked again! Audrey gets to give Alf "That Look" yet again!
In the Kabin, Jack tries to apologize to Rita for Vera's less than tactful opinions of the "coincidence" of Rita winning Reg's trolley race. Rita is defensive about the implication that she was in on the "fix" and won't put a word in to Reg on Vera's behalf (The cheek!)
Gail has a day out with the baby, first visiting the shop so Granny Audrey can have a cuddle (with the baby of course) while Alf hobbles around filling Gail's grocery order. Gail offers to do it herself but Audrey won't hear of it, she assures Gail that Alf is plenty happy to play the martyr (see? what did i tell you?). She tells Gail how Alf got hurt falling down Ken's staircase. Alf is continually annoyed at Audrey's cavalier and totally obnoxious attitude about the whole situation. (I mean, how many I told you so's and spreading of the humiliating story, getting digs in at Alf's lackluster landlordly ways can one man stand?) Gail tries to cheer him by reminding him how much more it would have cost had it been Ken that fell through the rotten board! Alf is not cheered and Audrey again points out that he should be home but will he listen? Will He 'Eck as like!
Jack serves up pints to two men, pointedly ignoring Phyllis who was there first as she loudly reminds him. Jack is scolded by Liz for it and with hints that if Alec finds out, he too will be looking for a job, reluctantly approaches Phyllis. "YES!?" She simpers, You know what i want. Aye (tracing his own lips) a zip from here to here. He hollers at her for telling tales causing Vera to lose her job while he gets her light ale, without even pouring it from the bottle to the glass as usual practice when serving a lady. (in the mood he's in she's lucky she didn't get it poured...over her head!) Poor Jack is hard put upon and wonders to Liz why everyone is always out for the Duckworths! Liz reminds him it could be worse, look what poor Kevin and Sally are going through!
Martin serves up plates of egg and chips around Gail who has found her second stop with Alma having a cuddle of David. Gail tells the tale of Alf's injury and they all agree it could have been more serious, if he hadn't landed on his wallet, quips RMartin! Martin asks if Gail has seen Sally in her travels and the conversation turns to the Webster's current troubles. Gail is of the opinion that they've made their best offer so Seymour will have to like it or lump it.
Meanwhile Sally is frowning deeply at a letter that's come for Kevin. He arrives for his dinner with good news of overtime but when he sits down to open the letter, it seems Seymour is going to lump it after all. It's a letter from his solicitor demanding payment in 14 days! Sally freaks out. She wants to get a bank loan which Kevin is against but she has and memories of her parents always rowing about money and (drastic) visions of bad debt lists and bailiffs taking away their furniture! Kevin comforts her and insists he won't let her down. Let's wait and see what happens first but she's not convinced and later asks Alf to look at the letter for his opinion.
Curly arrives at the building society for an appointment with Mr. Gosthorpe. He is determined, aggressive and loaded for bear! Adrian comes to greet Mr. Watts but Curly doesn't take his hands out of his pockets to shake the offered hand. He means serious business! They sit across a desk and Adrian launches into a practiced speech peppered with "get to know you" friendly questions. He asks Curly if he's married. NO. Is he engaged? *button pushed* Coldly and somewhat on the edge, Curly says 'I was until this conniving little rat put God knows what into her head and turned her against me'. I see. Curly answers the next question telling Adrian he is an assistant manager in a supermarket, the same one his former fiancee works in. His voice is very clipped and full of aggression but Adrian hasn't clued in yet. It won't take long though as Curly's voice raises and nears the edge of losing his temper completely, he continues his tirade against the jumped up little toady who works in a local building society! Ah. The light goes on as Adrian realizes who this is. Curly deliberately tries to bait the bear, calling him Gobthorpe but Adrian is calm and somewhat self righteous, disarming the hunter. He tells Curly he is intrigued. Eh? Intrigued to find out what kind of person would so use the fair and innocent Kimberly, a man who did all he could to ply sexual favours with all manner of schemes. He praises Kimberly's strength of character and purity of soul for resisting. After threats of calls to security, Curly sputters ineffectively, calling Adrian (also ineffectively) a Swine and with words to the effect that Adrian won't get away with this, he slinks away defeated for the moment, leaving Adrian still at the desk smirking in his wake.
Out of the blue, we are transported to Ingrams where Mike has just taken a call which has delighted him. Jackie arrives and he tells her that he has had an offer on his flat, first time buyers so no "chain". He reminisces about other places he's lived and decides be has to get the rest of his gear from the flat now. Jackie is pleased but leaves for a meeting with a client.
Vera returns from wherever it was she'd gone and tries the phone number again. She gets the switchboard of Bettabuys head office! She doesn't know who she needs to talk to but someone in authority. When asked what it's about, she gets angry and in classic Vera style snaps "It's about victimization, that's what it's about!" But this was the wrong approach and she's soon hung up on, to her frustration. Ah but our Vera isn't defeated yet!
Audrey urges alf to shut up shop an hour early but he's being stubborn so she says she'll ba back in an hour to pick him up. She gives him more flannel but leaves when he insists he's staying. He hops after her but the door is opened on his foot. He cringes in pain and sees it's Ken come in with a list to confirm what all needs to be fixed in the flat. He ignores Alf's protests and leaves again.
Back at the factory later, Jackie has returned and is triumphant and excited. She shows Mike a brochure from an estate agent of a very large and luxurious house. She doesn't want the two of them to live in her house with all of its memories of Peter, she wants a fresh start. All very well and good but it's an expensive house. Mike is gobsmacked when she glibly assumes he will pay for his share with the proceeds of the sale from his flat as she will from the sale of her house which she's also put up for sale. I think Mike is feeling the walls of the house named Commitment closing in on him rather quickly!
Liz makes a very inappropriate comment to Alma about how Mike never comes in to the pub anymore. I really thought she'd have more consideration for Alma's feelings than that! Kevin and Martin discuss the repair bill. Kevin tells Martin that Alf advised that they get in touch with the solicitor and explain the situation and the deal they had offered in hopes that the solicitor will see more reason and advise his client in their favour.
Rita arrives at Rita's flat, making himself at home on her settee, complaining about his day's work just as if he already had his feet under her table! He moans about Curly's personal problems affecting his work and pats himself on the back for giving Vera the sack saying she was no match for Reg Holdsworth (i think he just hexed himself!). Rita was sympathetic to Curly's plight but didn't have too much to say otherwise.
Over at the Duckworth's jack and Vera wonder why Curly seems to be avoiding them. Jack assures her that Curly won't be putting a good word in for her. She tells him over the cooing of the pigeons about her call to the head office. She tells him the snooty woman on the phone said she ought to put her complaints in writing. Jack looks at her and with a voice filled with dread asks, You didn't? I did, exclaims Vera, triumphantly. Posted it too! Nobody messed with her.
Adrian Gosthorpe - PHILIP BROOK
Writer - LESLIE DUXBURY Director - BRIAN MILLS
Friday (3182, Friday 1 February 1991)
Breakfast time at the Duckworth's and Jack is off his food and is in a state over the letter Vera wrote about Holdsworth. Vera figures if she's going down, she's taking everyone with her - and she thinks Curly may have been in on it too!
At Bettabuys, Reg gets a call from a friend at head office, tipping him off to the fact that the dreaded Brendan Scott is coming to investigate as the result of a complaint. Out on the floor, Curly tells Kimberly that he wants to talk, but unless it's about her transfer, she is not interested. Curly tries to tell Kimberly about the type of bloke Adrian is, but Kimberly just wants Curly to leave them both alone. Reg rushes out to find Curly and tells him about Brendan Scott coming to investigate the trolley dash fiddle. Reg finally tells Curly that 9 years ago he conducted a similar investigation on Brendan and how he is now out for vengeance.
Sally and Gail are in the café with the babies, and Gail is giving Sally Martin's expert legal advice. Alf has given Sally his own expert legal advice and Sally and Kevin are going to take their chances that the judge will take the attitude that they can't give what they haven't got. (So they hope.) Gail then helps Sally made a list of all their expenditures. Meanwhile, Audrey tries to get Alma to come to visit, but Alma just wants to be on her own. Audrey thinks Alma is still carrying a torch for Mike and that she should let it go, but Alma says she can't help it.
Speak of the devil - and we see Jackie giving Mike a smooch at the office. More smooching as they talk about 30 years from now and all they bridges they have both burnt. They have an appointment at 11:00 to look at a house, a place of their own.
Back at Bettabuys, Kimberly is going for lunch with Adrian, when Curly interrupts and throws a tantrum. He tells Kimberly that if she sets foot outside these four walls she faces instant dismissal, but Kimberly and Adrian saunter off, arm in arm, as Curly shouts ineffectively after them. And who should walk up, witness to that display of managerial talent, but Brendan Scott! Brendan and Curly are waiting in Reg's office and Reg is nowhere to be found. Curly is tip-toeing around, trying to cover for Reg and cover his own butt at the same time. Reg finally arrives, just so glad to see Brendan and playing dumb about why Brendan might be there. Brendan gets rid of Curly, telling him he and Reg have a lot of catching up to do.
At the café, Alma notices in the paper that Jackie's house is up for sale. Audrey thinks that if she gets what she's asking and Mike sells his flat the two of them would be rolling in it. Martin tells them that he and the kids were walking by the flat and saw a sold sign already up.
Back in Reg's office at Bettabuys, Brendan is clearly enjoying seeing Reg squirm, although Reg is pretending that Brendan is only here for a social visit. They are trading innuendo's at each other, when finally Brendan tells Reg why he's here - and Reg finds out the letter was from Vera!
Kevin arrives home and reviews the list of expenditures that Sally and Gail made, and they decide to offer Mr. Seymour £10 week to settle. Sally urges Kevin to put it all in writing that night.
At the Mini Market, Rita is commiserating with Alf about his sore foot when Vera comes in. Rita questions her about the letter and Vera tells her yes, she wrote it and yes, Rita's name is mentioned. Rita wants to know if she thinks that Rita was part of the fiddle.
At Bettabuys, Reg is still wriggling around with Brendan. Reg tells him that Vera is a "rampant rumour monger" and Brendan assures him if she is, he sill find it out. Brendan then opens his briefcase and shows Reg a bunch of letters of complaint that have been sent to head office over the years about Reg - Vera's letter is the last straw!
Uh oh. Kimberly is back 7 minutes late from lunch with Adrian and Curly is shouting at her, when he is summoned to Reg's office. As Curly leaves, Raquel comments to Kimberly about how masterful Curly can be. Then Kimberly tells her that Adrian doesn't try to get her into bed all the time, like Curly. And Raquel retorts "And Wimpy Watts did - interesting!"
In the office, Reg tells Curly that Brendan, representing head office, will be doing a thorough investigation and that he off on several weeks vacation. Reg tries to slip out with the keys to the store, but Brendan makes him give them to Curly, who seems quite uncomfortable in this situation.
Brendan Scott: MILTON JOHNS Adrian Gosthorpe:
PHILIP BROOK
Writer: KEN BLAKESON Director: BRIAN MILLS
Monday (3183, Monday 4 February 1991)
Jack thinks things are looking up for Vera . How's that, Vera wonders, when she's over 40, unemployed. Jack thinks she should be able to get El Supremo (that would be Curly Watts, Manager-Brackets-Acting) to get her job back. That would be fine, Vera moans if Curly wasn't avoiding her, well anyway, stuff him. Why should she go crawling to anyone? Jack, teasing her, says because she's *well* over 40, out of work and unemployable. Ducking the cleaning cloth chucked his way, he pours out another cup of tea and chuckles and even Vera smiles at him.
At Bettabuys, the girls are at the tills listening to an announcement telling them that Mr. Holdsworth will be on unexpected leave and that Mr. Watts is temporarily in charge, just temporarily mind you. It's all very vague with no reasons given. This fact is indeed noted by Raquel who is elegantly seeing to her nails with an emery board during the announcement. In the office, Brenden Scott seems to be scolding Curly for not being vague enough and now there will be questions, won't there? he does encourage Norman in this new venture, it's a good way to prove himself and make an impression. Curly humbly insists he is just filling in but Brendan reminds him that there aren't that many manager taking that much leave so soon after that many complaints. He flays a finger at the side of his nose and leaves. (there must be plague or a virus that induces this gesture because it's *that* catching and *THAT* ANNOYING.)
Martin serves in the cafe and hollers at a distracted Alma for burning the toast. Alma is distracted because she's found out Jackie is selling her house and she and Mike are buying one together. Martin tries to advise her to get on with her life. She goes along with it but her face falls when martin turns away. Later on we overhear her making a phone call, briefly interrupted by Martin looking for help. She contacts an estate agent for an appointment to look at a house while the owners are not in and she uses the name Mrs. Halliwell. (any guesses who's house?)
Rita is hollering at Reg for making it sound like she was involved in the trolley race scam because he keeps saying things like "WE've got to think of something quick". Reg refers to Brenden Scott as the Heretic of all Humanity but Rita reminds Reg he brought it all on himself and she won't be dragged into his mistakes. Reg wonders if Rita has given the groceries to charity if that might not be a way out of the mess and he does admit there is bad blood between him and Brendan after he was made to investigate one of Brendan's schemes years ago. Reg swears on the soul of St. Jude that he will protect Rita's good name but that doesn't help Rita feel better. St. Jude was the saint of Lost Causes and Rita has already been named as his accomplice by Vera Duckworth in a poison pen letter to Head Office!
Mr. Scott comes to Vera to discuss the situation. She is hesitant to talk further but he wheedles and explains that she must, otherwise, her letter may be seen as sour grapes over being dismissed. Vera's whole point was that she wouldn't have had to complain if she hadn't been sacked because the reason she was, was because she was asking too many questions about the "fix". She makes a crack about Reg's dipping into the till which excites Brenden briefly but she soon backs down and assures him it were only her just talking. He is so slick and smarmy however, and he seems about to persuade her to telling all about Rita in with the rest of the dirt by dangling the prospect of getting her job back. Vera sighs and sits down to talk.
Kimberly comes to the office to ask Curly to see to her transfer since he's now in charge. His latest excuse, as he pages Raquel to the office, is that she really doesn't have a good reason for transferring, like a death in the family or moving house so he must turn it down. She wails that working in the same store with him is unbearable. Raquel arrives near the end of it, very cool and collected and taking it all in with a sharp gaze. Curly then switches the duty roster and puts Kimberly on the cheese counter, which he knows she hates! Kim accuses him of resorting to blackmail but it won't work, he won't come between her and Adrian! She storms out and Raquel moves in. Very Close. She perches on the end of the desk, very clearly coming on to the boss in a very calculating way. She gives him a stuffed Garfield as a welcome to the top gift and leaves for her assignment on the fruit and veg aisle. Curly doesn't seem flattered at all. In fact he seems rather stunned at this turn of events! (Raquel is no blonde bimbo barmaid here, very shrewd i would say, knowing which side of her bread to butter on her way up the career ladder!)
Jack refuses to talk to or serve Reg in the pub so Bet intervenes as Reg spots Mavis in a booth and eventually joins her. Alec tries to get Alf to see that he needs to play up and exaggerate the injury. He'll have to pay up to fix Ken's flat eventually but by stalling for time, he gets a little more interest on the money while it's still in the bank. Reg defends himself and his actions where Rita is concerned, to Mavis as Brenden Scott arrives at the bar for a half a lager and strikes up a conversation with Alec about the retail trade. Reg spots Brenden and slinks out of the pub almost on all fours so as not to be seen by Mr. Scott, much to Mavis's astonishment when she turns back to talk to him.
Mr. Simpson, the estate agent arrives at Jackie's house with...you guessed it, Alma! He spews his sales pitch, pointing out the house's selling features but gets stuck on the mobile phone to his office, leaving Alma to wander on her own. She goes upstairs and into the tastefully decorated bedroom and looks around. She sits at the dressing table surrounded by Jackie's toiletries and Mike's belts and ties and cries. Later she scurries downstairs and right out the door, followed apologetically and anxiously by the estate agent.
Brendan Scott arrives at the Kabin just as Mavis has received a gentle scolding from Rita for talking to Reg about her, knowing Mavis meant well. Mr. Scott interrupts and identifies himself and wonders if he can have a word with Rita in private so they are next seen up in her flat. She has just given him the accepted explanation that of course she had nothing to do with winning that prize, it was just a coincidence that Reg pulled her number. Scott is charming like a snake, and implies that giving the goods to charity might have been to cover her guilt! She is indignant and throws him out in spite of his trying to be politic and reasonable about it all. She's not having her good name sullied and she also denies there is no relationship with Reg Holdsworth and if there were it would be none of his business anyway. He is firmly ushered out the door.
At the factory, Mike asks jackie to help him with time sheets but she's planning on a long hot soak in the tub before they have to go out to meet people for dinner that night. In the end she returns to help him after all and it's rather late when they do finally get home.
Alf serves Alec as Ken comes in so Alf moans and hops about. Ken asks if he's had the leg seen to by a doctor if it's that bad and Alf puts on the stiff upper lip martyr act. Ken knows Alf would see about the injury because then he'd have to tell the truth about how he hurt it and when Alf accuses him of slander, Ken offers to let Alf sue him, he'd welcome his day in court!
In the pub later, Martin stops in to buy a few tins of ale to take to Kevin's and asks Audrey if she's seen Alma who left early and hadn't come back. Audrey despairs of Alma these days and is well sick of hearing her troubles but Martin reckons Alma was different today, in a strange mood. Alf limps in and Audrey, spying Ken at the end of the bar, warns both he and Alf not to start any scenes. Ken and Alf say nothing but glare daggers at each other! Rita comes in to talk to Bet and interrupts her dart game, which she was losing anyway. Vera tells Jack about Brendan Scott's visit and Jack is dismayed to hear Vera told the bloke all about her theories about Rita and Reg. When will she learn to keep her gob shut! Vera believes Brendan Scott is a sharp one and has "them two" well sussed. (I wonder if there's a reason the writer's made this man's initials B.S.???) In the booth Bet listens as Rita pours her heart out, very upset about the whole situation. Rita admits that Reg fixed the draw and admitted it to her after the fact though she truly had no part in it. She's nervous and wondering how clever that Scott feller is and wishes she's never set eyes on that supermarket.
Alma sits home rather fidgety in the dark. Jackie and Mike arrive, tired and make drinks though they will have to rush to get ready for their dinner.
Jack defends Vera to Alec who sees a trail of bloodshed and slander in her wake but Vera will be back stacking shelves at the end of it and that's justice? It is, Jack insists, she got fired for asking questions. Give over, Lenny Skinner asks questions quieter than your Vera! (and who's he when he's at home? I think that was the name Alec said.)
Mike calls the people they are meeting to let them know he and Jackie will be a bit late. He has a jolly conversation as Jackie saunters by and climbs the stairs to get ready. He throws the phone down when he hers a blood curdling scream from upstairs and races up. Jackie is standing, shocked and staring at the bed which is covered in a twisted mess of feathers and slashed fabric of the duvet, the offending scissors still on the side of the bed! Seems Alma's heart wasn't the only thing cut to a quick!
Mr. Simpson - NICHOLAS FRY Brendan Scott -
MILTON JOHNS
Writer - PAUL ABBOTT Director - OLIVER HORSBRUGH
Tuesday (3184, Wednesday 6 February 1991)
Mike and Jackie are appalled that someone has been in the house, slashing the bedroom apart. Jackie wants to call the police, but Mike doesn't agree - he thinks it was Sandra, who told them she was having an affair with Peter. Mike does not want the publicity that calling the police would cause.
Over breakfast at the Duckworth's, Jack tries to convince Curly to take Vera back on at Bettabuys, but Curly insists that he cannot because of the investigation. Curly tells Jack that Raquel is interested in him. Later at Bettabuys, Curly is helping Raquel out with the cash register and there is some serious flirting going in, including plans for tonight, when Kimberly interrupts. When Curly leaves, Kimberly tells Raquel that she's has only fancied Curly since he's made acting manager. Mike goes to see the estate agent who is selling the house for Jackie, demanding to know who he last took around the house. The agent doesn't want to tell Mike anything, but he finally breaks down after Mike throws a piece of the slashed bedding on his desk. Mike figures out from the description that it was Alma. Back to Bettabuys, where Brendan shifts Curly from behind Reg's desk and he gives Curly a list of people that he wants to interview. Brendan wants to know if Reg is lead astray by the ladies, specifically Vera, but Curly assures him not.
At the Rovers, Jack has to go to the cellar to avoid serving Reg, who tries to get Mavis to relay a communication to Rita, but Mavis refuses and scurries off. Bet won't serve Reg either, so it's left to Alec. Percy and Ken are in the cafe, having a conversation about the finer points of law, and Martin joins them just as Mike comes in. He heads straight to Alma to show her a piece of the slashed bedding. She lowers her eyes and doesn't say a word.
Reg knocks at the Duckworth's and the door is answered by Jack, who warns him off, but Reg wants to talk to Vera.
Up at Alma's flat, Mike tells Alma that he was hoping that it wasn't her. She tells him she didn't go there for that, she just wanted to see the house, but the scissors were there and she just did it. She offers to pay for the damage, but Mike tells her that doesn't matter, he is worried about her. Mike says that he never knew she felt that strongly about him. Alma says she feels like a fool, and she gives Mike a blank cheque to pay for the damage. Mike apologizes to her, saying he is sorry he did this to her.
Back to the Duckworth's where Reg is telling Vera and Jack that he thinks they should let bygones be bygones and offers her job back if she withdraws her allegations. Jack thinks that she can get her job back anyway, with Curly on her side, but Reg tells them that Culry will be mudsplattered either way if Vera doesn't back down.
More smouldering looks pass between Curly and Raquel as she leaves and he enters to see Brendan, who comments that things seem rather mutinous between staff and management. Curly thinks Brendan is exaggerating. Brendan tells Curly that he can't just dismiss Vera's allegations. Out on the store floor, Vera comes in and has a chat with Kimberly, who points out Brendan to Vera and she trots off to talk to him. At the factory office, Mike has told Jackie that it was Alma who did the damage to the bedroom. Jackie is glad that it was Alma and not Sandra. Jackie thinks that Alma is desperately in love with Mike, but Mike disagrees - he thinks that she just needed to get something out of her system. Mike shows Jackie the blank cheque that Alma gave him and Jackie tears it up.
Curly brings Raquel into the Rovers, and Jack and Alec are impressed. Raquel doesn't seem to think much of the pub, and doesn't want ot stay there all night, but Curly seems determined to be seen. Jack makes it very obvious to them that the house is empty, as Vera has gone to the bingo and he is there til closing time. Ken comes in and thanks Alf for the work done on the flat and Alf moans about the cost. Raquel and Curly are supping in a booth, and Raquel wants to go back to Curly's digs, but Kimberleys name keeps popping up in the conversation. Curly finally agrees.
Reg has stopped by Rita's flat but she is still not best pleased with him. Reg tells Rita that all he meant was to do some little thing for her, out of regard, and Rita softens a bit - but still sees him out the door!
In the darkened Duckworth house some major snogging is going on, but Kimberly's name still keeps popping up, until Raquel has had enough and leaves.
Mr. Simpson: NICHOLAS FRY
Writer: JULIAN ROACH Director: OLIVER HORSBRUGH
Wednesday (3185, Friday 8 February 1991)
In the pre-dawn morning, Mavis draws open the patio drapes and to her unexpected delight, spies a fox in the garden. She excitedly calls Derek to come and see but by the time he rouses himself, the fox has quietly disappeared. Derek is skeptical about whether it was in fact a fox, he thinks it was more likely a dog, and none too happy about being awoken so early. Grumbling about the early hour, he takes himself back to bed, leaving Mavis to marvel at her discovery.
Across the road at the Duckworths, Curly is telling Jack and Vera over breakfast that he simply isn,t ready for a new relationship. Jack can't understand why even Miss Bettabuys, (Raquel) can,t tempt Curly back into action. Curly says his days of mixing his working and private lives is over. This prompts Vera to reflect that she hasn,t got a working life, thanks to Mr. Holdsworth. Curly sites Reg as the perfect example of how mixing up business and pleasure can go wrong. Jack still can,t understand why Curly doesn,t just play the field with as many young good looking women in his path as Curly has. Vera labels Jack,s way of looking at things "disgusting", and says at least Curly doesn,t think like he does, leaving Jack to ponder, "Yes, but why not?"
Jenny stops into the Kabin to pick up a magazine and when Rita suggests they get together for a drink, she cracks on about how busy she is, that she is doing promotions for Pomme Delite nearly every night. She flutters out of the shop again, leaving Rita feeling a bit disappointed but resigned. Mavis, meanwhile, is busily studying one of the wildlife magazines which prompts Rita to ask if there,s something up with the budgie.
In the Bettabuys canteen, Kimberly is sat alone having her tea break while three girls sit giggling over a magazine at the table behind her. She finally turns to ask what is so funny and their immediate change in attitude only confirms to her they were laughing at her. She huffs out of the staff room and bumps into Raquel on her way. Raquel, having spent an uneventful evening with Curly the previous night, asks Kimberly what she did to Curly, that he can,t seem to talk about anyone but her. Kimberly clearly has no desire to discuss Curly and pushes past Raquel.
Also in the canteen are Curly and the man charged with investigating Reg Holdsworth. As they sit at a table, Brendan Scott asks Curly a series of questions pertaining to the case, and about Vera in particular. Curly calmly and matter-of-factly responds in the negative to each of the questions: "Would you say she is sensible? Reliable? Would you say she would make a good witness?" Mr. Scott, frustrated in his efforts to convict Reg, pronounces that this is a case filled with more deceit and betrayal than World War II, and abruptly ending the interview, announces to Curly, "Today, Mr. Watts, is D day,!"
Jack is in Alf's Mini Market, picking up a few supplies for the Rovers. When Alf starts blustering about what the repairs upstairs are going to cost him, Jack and Audreh begin teasing him about holding onto his wallet so tightly. He protests that folk have the misimpression that he has piles of money, prompting Jack to offer to switch wallets with him. Alf readily agrees, provided Jack is willing to take "a wife and lodger who connive behind his back" into the bargain. Jack, unflinchingly agrees, causing poor Alf to bluster again, he hasn't got time to stand around listening to nonsense!
Derek comes into the Kabin to pick up Mavis for lunch and jokingly asks whether she,s had any further sitings. Rita,s curiousity is peeked at this, but Mavis steers Derek out again quickly to avoid telling Rita about the fox. As the couple goes through the door, in comes Reg. He is on his way to find out the "verdict" of the investigation. Rita says she,s sure it will all be fine but Reg tells her the world of Bettabuys is one filled with "intrigue and jealousy". She raises an eyebrow at this and says she hopes he is wrong. He asks permission to call in again, as "a man most needs his friends when surrounded by enemies". A bit miffed, she tells him to call in anytime and as he makes his way out, he gives her the assurance that if he does "go down", it will be with his "head held high!"
In the Rovers, Mavis is explaining that she didn't want Derek to tell Rita about the fox. He says that he still thinks it was a dog but she is insistent, she still would rather no one else know.
At the bar, Bet is asking Vera if Curly couldn,t pull a few strings to get her job back for her. She doesn,t think that,s possible with the investigation still going on. Percy consoles her with the reminder that at least she has a clear conscience, having told the truth. Vera says that she,s made a vow, when she does get a job, to keep her mouth shut from now on. Jack, from a little ways down the bar, cracks that he,d like that in writing! Percy takes him to task for the remark, saying it,s a pity there aren,t more honest women like Vera. "More like her? What are you trying to do, give me nightmares?!" returns Jack.
Mavis spots Des entering the pub and with the safety of her, fox in mind, goes over to have a word with him about his back yard. He assumes that she is complaining about the state it,s in, and jokingly tells her Steph will get at it with a pick-axe as soon as the weather is better. "Oh, no", Mavis tells him, "It wasn,t a complaint at all." She just wanted to make sure that when he does begin work, he won,t be using any chemicals, anything that could harm any wildlife, *if* there were any about. Bemused, he gives her his assurances that he won't.
Back at Bettabuys, Raquel enters Curly,s office and asks to have a private word. He insists that the door be left open but when she shows him the magazine that according to her, the whole staff has been laughing about, he gets up to close the door. The magazine has printed a letter in its advice column, from a girl signing herself, "K", who wonders if all men are only after sex. According to the letter, she broke off her engagement with her fiancé, a man she also works with, because he was only interested in "one thing". It went on to say that she then started dating another man who, contrary to being the Christian he represented himself as, was also apparently only after "one thing". Curly is convinced that the author of the letter is none other than Kimberly and grabbing the magazine from Raquel, he pushes her out of his office.
Des is in the Kabin buying a roll of mints and Rita takes the opportunity to ask just how active the Pomme Delight promotions are these days. He tells her they hardly ever go out anymore - business is so slow in fact, that Steph is thinking of packing it in. Mavis cheerily comes through the door, and Des can,t resist asking her if the mints he just purchased contain any pesticides. She laughs and tells him "no" and then he says he reckons they aren,t much use for killing weeds either. As he turns to leave, Rita calls after him to inquire whether there isn,t a promotion tonight? He answers without hesitation, "Not tonight - they'll be lucky to get one over the next month!" Rita,s suspicions are now confirmed, Jenny's been intentionally avoiding her. Mavis innocently reminds her that Jenny specifically said there was a promotion tonight, to which Rita quietly replies, "Then she must have been lying."
Finding Kimberly alone in the Bettabuys canteen, Curly wastes no time confronting her about the letter in the magazine. She denies all knowledge of the letter but Curly obviously doesn,t believe her. Reg interrupts to ask Curly if he knows which way the wind is blowing as he is on his way up to see Brendan Scott now. Curly replies that he doesn,t know what the decision is, Reg is on his way again and Curly turns back to Kimberly. She is adamant that she knows nothing about the letter and tells him if he doesn,t stop pestering her, she,ll tell Adrian. As she marches out of the canteen, Curly makes the decision to go and pay a visit to the evil Adrian.
Up in the Bettabuys offices, Reg sits stoically waiting for Brendan Scott to render his verdict. The bitterness in the investigator,s voice is apparent as he tells Reg that although he breached the regulations, and conspired in a cover-up, nothing can be proven against him. Therefore, he is forced to label the case "as Unproven,, a Scottish legal term", he explains. Reg, who has sat poker-faced throughout the interview up to that point, now reacts with glee. "This is England, Mr. Scott. Here, I think you will find the appropriate term is Not guilty,!" As the disgruntled Scott takes his leave, Reg triumphantly resumes his rightful place at his own desk.
Curly has made his way over to the Building Society and is now confronting Adrian Gosthorpe with the evidence of his deviant behaviour. Adrian, regarding the hot-headed Curly as nothing more than a banal detail to be dispensed with, quietly pushes the red alarm button beneath his desk as he listens to Curly rant about what a hypocrite he,s been towards Kimberly. When Adrian finally looks at the magazine article, he dismisses it as nothing Kimberly would have written.
Then he rises to come face to face with Curly. If she did write it, he tells him, she certainly doesn,t feel that way now. Adrian takes great pleasure in informing Curly that Kimberly has now succumbed to his charms and that he is certainly not hearing any complaints from her when they are alone together. Curly is both enraged and incredulous at the news. As he picks up the magazine and turns to leave he walks straight into the two police officers who have just arrived to arrest him.
At the Duckworths,, Reg has dropped in to announce the happy news of his reinstatement. Vera wants to know if his good fortune is owing to her dropping the allegations she made against him. Reg casually tells her she *may* have played a small role and if so, he thanks her. But it's really Mr. Watts he,s come to see so is he about? Jack demands to know when Vera will be getting her job back and Reg says that when the "dust settles", there will be ample time to discuss that. Jack and Vera begin to register their protest but Curly walks in and commands everyone's attention.
In a state of upset, Curly announces that he is going to tell them about the "rotten, lousy" day he's had. He shouts to anyone who will listen that he,s had his love life become the subject of a most entertaining letter, that his ex-fiancée and her boyfriend have made him look a fool and that he's just spent the last two hours being held in the local nick, being questioned about his attempt to hold up and terrorize the local building society! In the midst of the shocked silence, the phone rings. Jack returns from answering it and informs Curly that there,s a reporter wanting to talk to him.
Across the road at the Wiltons, Mavis is getting set up to keep watch for the fox. She has a cup of tea and her camera at the ready and a chair parked by the patio door. As he bids her goodnight, Derek apologises for not believing her about the fox. He says he does believe her now, but suppose it doesn,t make an appearance tonight? She tells him not to worry, if she doesn,t see the fox tonight, she shall watch again tomorrow night
Brendan Scott MILTON JOHNS
Writer PETER WHALLEY
Thursday (3186, Monday 11 February 1991)
Derek is a jolly fellow this morning, skipping down the stairs with a song on his lips. Mavis isn't amused and says the fox has not re-appeared which isn't surprising given the attitude of "some folks"! Mavis knows that Derek believes she's a hallucinating flibbertigibbit. No doubt about it, Derek IS skeptical that there could be a fox in Weatherfield and Mavis is annoyed at not being taken seriously. She honestly doesn't know wwhy she bothers sometimes! Derek takes his scolding with a spoon full of sugar in his morning coffee, his spirits undampened.
Jack and Curly are having breakfast when Vera finally comes down in her blue robe with matching blue and yellow curlers in the bangs atop her forehead. Curly is reluctant to go into work, as the object of gossip at the cheese counter but Vera needs him to help get her job back. They launch on what appears to be two separate conversations, neither listening to the other. Curly feeling the letter in the magazine being bad enough but that business at the bank is sure to come out. Jack and Vera discuss her job, Jack of the opinion that Vera has served her purpose and there is no more use for her but Vera vowing to make further trouble if need be. This makes Jack shudder while Curly is still involved in his own agenda, figuring Kim probably enjoys having two men fight over her in public and probably hasn't said a dickey bird to the other girls abut Adrian to preserve her Purity in a Blue Overall image at Bettabuys. It looks like Curly is planning to sully Kimberly's reputation (all in the name of sour grapes if you ask me). Vera finally catches the end of his thread of the conversation. After curly leaves, Vera tells Jack that she thinks Curly is coming unraveled. Driven wild by the love of a beautiful woman, does happen sometimes is Jack's opinion.
Sally sees Kevin off with a smile on the pavement. Kevin runs to get a lift into town with Curly but has to endure a typical Curly lecture/self pitying whine about how lucky Kevin is, some women have very fragile egos. Kevin asks about that new bird Curly was seen in the pub with but Curly gloomily explains that all women are the same, vampires! Although, of course, Kevin and Sally are different, they are happy ever afters. They drive off as, inside number 13, Sally's crying over a letter that has come, another from the solicitor i imagine.
Rita gives Mavis tea to wake her up and teases her about passion filled nights but Mavis is in no mood. Vera comes in to ask Rita if she has seen Reg Holdsworth but Rita explains that the only thing she saw last night was the bottom of a chip pan and a documentary on how if she didn't stop lacquering her hair, the ice cap would melt and there would be homeless polar bears wandering up and down Inkerman Street! (Love it!) Vera just worries that she hasn't heard anything about getting her job back. Rita didn't expect to hear but will tell vera if she does. Mavis is just plain bitchy about the whole thing and after Vera leaves, Rita comments on it. Mavis, pursed lips, raised eyebrows and rolling eyes, says spitefully that she's tried to be tolerant all her life (???) and what has it brought her? Rita can see Mavis is in one of those moods and gives up.
Curly is stalking about Bettabuys. His hair is not slicked back professionally today, more like a bad case of bed head and he's looking rather manic and crazed, muttering to himself. Raquel passes by and asks if he's ok but gets her head bitten of for her troubles. She leaves, advising him to keep his hair on and he continues muttering down the aisle to where Kimberly is rhythmically shooting price labels on tins. Curly starts off rude and proceeds to sarcastically snipe at her about losing her "inhibitions" with Adrian. She throws it back at him and says it was very nice thank you, and they're even thinking of doing it again. Wrong choice. Curly loses it completely, squawking at her retreating back and snarling at Raquel because she knows, too, doesn't she? They ALL knew and were snickering behind his back. She has no idea what has set him off and next we see Curly screaming at Kimberly and now annoucing to everyone in the store within earshot that Kimberly did IT with Adrian Gosthorpe. Reg finally arrives as Kimberly is in tears and senior shoppers are edging away from the madman! Curly's eyes are glazed with desperation and his voice is ragged with emotion and he finally gets a slap in the face from Kimberly as Reg tries to get the situation under control.
Liz has brought some baby clothes that Sally has ordered from a catalogue. But, Near tears, Sally tells Liz she will have to return them as they can't afford them and won't let Liz buy them for the baby as a gift. She tells Liz that their offer of the repayment plan to Seymour was rejected by the solicitor and now there's a summons! Sally is afraid and full of guilt for letting her baby down and Liz makes a valiant attempt to comfort her.
Percy arrives at the Kabin to inform Mavis, in case she didn't know, that she had left some bacon out in the back garden. (what the heck is he doing snooping about in back gardens, anyway? That's trespassing isn't it?) Mavis isn't impressed either and tells him it's none of his business but he insists it is his and everyone else's business as that can attract vermin (thinking Mavis was just trying to feed a stray cat or something). Mavis should be aware of the consequences, is all. But all that happens is Mavis gets defensive so Percy leaves. Rita asks her to fess up but Mavis isn't talking and shifts Rita out the door to meet Reg for lunch in the Rovers.
Which is where Reg is waiting. Jack rushes to serve him in the interest of getting Vera her job back. Jack even buys Reg and Rita their drinks. Reg mentions to them about Mr. Watts and his near breakdown over his broken heart, his rantings against all womanhood and sending Kimberly crying into the freezer. Jack's good word for Vera is translated by Vera to mean that if Vera is given her job back, she'll be able to help keep Curly under control. It seems to work, Reg agrees and Vera is told as she has just arrived and even Reg is hugged in her jubilation.
At dinnertime, Kevin arrives home to find Jim at the table having a cuddle with the baby. Jim offers his help to the Websters, offering to pay the £1200 bill and Kevin can pay Jim back on that suggested weekly payment. Kevin rudely turns him down so Jim tactfully backs down and leaves. But Sally is furious. She just screams at him (with the baby in her arms, who starts crying immediately and who can blame her). He's rude! It's his stinking pride and just what does SHE have to be proud of (not him, it's implied).
Rita's back and wonders why Mavis is stalling instead of rushing home as usual. She tells Rita she's had quite a nice uplifting experience only Derek's not shared it with her and has even suggested it didn't even happen at all. Rita's face is a picture that asks a thousand questions but Mavis won't tell her what's wrong, she wouldn't be interested. They are interrupted by Angie who's dashed in. Rita asks after Jenny whom she's seen very little of these days. Angie admits Jenny has a new boyfriend, which delights Rita, but doesn't say much else, leaving Rita to wonder why Jenny doesn't confide in her anymore.
Sally's put the baby to bed and now she and Kevin fight about how to pay the bill, what to do. Tears and accusations are shed and flung respectively until there's a knock on the door. It's Martin looking for company over a pint but realizes he's walked in on something awkward when Sally shouts at Kevin to leave but Kevin shouts that he's staying. Martin beats a hasty retreat.
At Number 9, Curly moans about being single while Jack impatiently waits for Vera to get ready. He tries to get out of her celebratory evening out thinking they should stay home and comfort Curly but that doesn't wash. She's bound and determined to celebrate before going back to that boring job! Martin arrives, still looking for company but Curly turns him down and all, not wanting to go into that bright and happy world of couples.
Back at the Websters', Sally has been giving Kevin the silent treatment as she angrily turns the pages of the newspaper. The argument starts up again but Sally eventually apologizes for some of the mean things she's said. She is scared that this is all pulling them apart, all this shouting and blaming. She sees them turning into her parents. She always thought it would be different with her and Kevin, that they'd be a team working together and now look! With her parents it was always about money. Her dad measured himself by money and she sees Kevin turning the same way, too involved in paying off the money with no help to show the world what kind of man he is. She cries that she doesn't want him to be like her dad! Kevin hangs his head.
Derek is out on the patio that night and spots a fox sneaking round the back of the garden! His eyes bug out and he whispers a call to Mavis! He moves slowly back to the door so as not to startle the animal.
Alec mentions to Des and Steph that Vera got her job back and she and Jack are out celebrating tonight. Alec moans about loyalty as Martin comes in . Alone. Des and Steph are just out the door so poor Martin is feeling distinctly paranoid, like he's being wound up! Curly slopes in because he had to get away from the celebratory happy mood and festive atmosphere in Number 9. He'd rather be in the pub where it's more depressing. Thanks, Martin snipes. Go on then, and Martin buys Curly a pint. Rita and Angie arrive together. Rita still yanging about Jenny not confiding in her. Curly witters on about the change in Kimberly's self confidence, further depressing Martin.
Across the road Mavis and Derek are basking in the afterglow of Derek's uplifting experience. With the fox, of course! Derek is full of wonder at his encounter and Mavis thinks they should keep the secret from everyone.
Vera is finally ready and looking FINE in her fitted blue dress and pearls. But as they are almost out the door, she hears something out back. Then Jack hears it too and they rush out. The pigeons are fluttering and feathers are flying. They don't see what has upset the birds but Jack is horrified to find one of his beloved feathered friends lying dead in the coop!
Writer - FRANK COTTRELL BOYCE Director - JUNE HOWSON
Friday (3187, Wednesday 13 February 1991)
Jack sits and sadly strokes the body of his beloved late pigeon Dolly, while Percy witters on unsympathetically that the birds would have been safer if Jack had kept a lock on his back gate. Jim MacDonald arrives, and after making a tasteless joke about having a barbeque, notes that it must have been a very strong cat to force it's way into the cage.
Kevin and Sally bicker over having a boring evening in, but are unable to afford even a few beers at the local. Sally whines, wondering what they'll do about their court case and debts, causing Kevin to snap that they'll just have to go to court and explain that they simply don't have the money. Sally thinks Kevin should do some overtime at work to earn extra money, but his angry response is that there is no overtime for "idiots" like him. A screaming match ensues, prompting Kevin to angrily announce that he's going to bed.
We assume it is the following day, when Reg Holdsworth stops to chat with Vera at Bettabuys. She hopes there are no hard feelings over the recent turn of events, and Reg assures her that there are none. In a conspiratorial voice, Reg comments that he hopes Vera has not discussed "the misunderstanding" with other staff members, to which Vera responds "you mean, keep me gob shut"!
At the Rover's Return, Jack is wiping glasses while mourning his recent losses to Alec, who is less than sympathetic. Jack confesses that Dolly seemed to understand him, even though she couldn't talk. He recounts how he used to open her cage each morning, and how she would jump onto his hand and look into his eyes as though imploring him to speak to her. He recalls when he hit his face on the windscreen of the car, and told Dolly about it the following morning. With tears in his eyes, he says that Dolly rested her head on his face and stroked his cheek with her little feathers. "We could really communicate," he says, and Alec agrees, adding, "one bird brain to another." Jack slaps the counter with his towel and exclaims that he just *knew* that Alec would make fun.
Over in the Corner Shop, Audrey holds Rosie while Sally complains that the baby had her up five times the night before. Audrey promises Sally that the nightly disturbances will end, although Sally may not believe it at the moment. Sally comments that she feels tired all the time, and Audrey wonders aloud if things are okay between her and Kevin. Sally insists they are, but sensing that she may not be telling the whole truth, Audrey offers to be available anytime Sally feels the need to talk to someone.
Percy and Alf discuss Jack's recent loss over a pint at the Rover's Return, and Percy asserts that it's possible the birds were killed by a rat rather than a cat. He insists that there are two convenient sources for rats, since they are drawn to easy food, and suggests they could be in Alf's shop as well as the Rover's Return. Outraged by Percy's remarks, Alf calls Alec over so Percy can repeat this statement for him, and Alec in turn calls over Jack, saying that Percy has a new theory regarding the death of his birds. In a moment of curtness and hurt, Jack explains that he doesn't want to discuss it, and Alf cautions Percy that if he continues to talk to others in this vein, he'll be getting a letter from Alf's solicitor. Alec confidentially informs Percy that he doesn't want the information spread, but he happens to know that the culprit is "the Weatherfield Puma."
Mavis holds little David while she and Rita admire the child. Gail comments that he's a good baby, and that she's embarrassed to take David by to visit Sally because Rosie is always screaming her lungs out. The topic turns to Jack's dead pigeons, and Gail tells the ladies of Nicky's pal on Inkerman Street, whose pet rabbit was killed the same way the night before last.
Curly skulks around Bettabuys in a foul mood until Vera stops him to ask if he's seen the paper. She comments that even though no names were mentioned, all the girls know who the article is referring to, to which Curly sarcastically responds "You don't think I know that"? "Everytime I look into someone's face, they snigger behind my back." He adds that there's only one person low enough to tell people that the article is about him, "and it's Mr. Watts to you," he screams as an afterthought. As he stomps off, he momentarily pauses in front of Kimberly, who is pricing tins of food, and calls her a "Jezebel."
Angie arrives at the Kabin, and makes a point of ascertaining if Mavis is around (she is not) before confiding to Rita that there will be a surprise birthday party for Jenny. When asked if it will be a big party, Angie responds that it will be on the "small" side, with only 40 to 50 guests!
In Reg Holdsworth's office, he invites Curly to sit down, prefacing the meeting by saying that he has a "painful" duty to perform. He asks a dejected Curly if he knows what "The Golden Precept" is, and when he gets no response, thunders that "the store comes first." He sternly informs Curly (or "Norman" in this context) that he has the feeling that the store comes last in Curly's books over the past few weeks. Curly's performance, he insists, is "tragic" of late and must stop. Things can only be corrected by Curly -- all he has to do is request that Kimberly be transferred. In a brilliant array of mixed metaphors, Reg advises Curly that for his self, and "for Bettabuys' sake... you are going to take that bull by the horns, wipe the slate clean with it, and turn over a sparkling new penny -- have I made myself clear"?
Derek, meanwhile, has arrived home to find Mavis sitting in the dark. She tells him she's very worried about her "foxy friend" because all day she's heard people talking about animals that have been taken and mysteriously killed. Derek reminds her that no one knows fur sure that the fox is responsible, but Mavis replies that killing is what foxes do. In tears, she adds that she can't bear the thought of men tracking him down and killing him. Derek points out that their little friend is a fox, after all, and very capable of taking care of himself. Mavis admits that she's "disappointed" with the fox, who seemed so "well mannered" in their back garden, but Derek correctly brings to Mavis' attention that the fox is a hunter who can't be expected to tuck into cucumber sandwiches. Mavis believes the fox ought to "draw the line" at taking people's pets, because the boy who lost his rabbit must have been terribly distressed.
Back at Bettabuys, Kimberly bitterly complains to Reg about Curly calling her a "Jezebel." She describes his behaviour as "harrassment," a word Reg finds objectionable and wishes she'd steer clear of, suggesting instead that she describe his behaviour as "a temporary instability from an otherwise exemplary member of the management team." Kimberly insists that Reg do something, and Reg tries to placate her by saying that he's already had Norman in his office, "treading hot coals." He adds that Curly is in "an emotional state," and that these things take time. Curly arrives at that moment, and announces that if Reg is considering transferring anyone, he would have no objections, waving goodbye to Kimberly in the process.
At the Webster's, Sally kisses Kevin and thanks him for her bouquet of flowers. Sally's mom is visiting, and sitting at the dining room table, insists that she just decided to stop for a few days to see her grand-daughter. She mentions to Kevin that Sally told her they're in "a spot of trouble." Kevin immediately realizes that Sally summoned her mother and also told her of the court case, and he explodes in anger, screaming at Sally that she had no right to tell others of their problems. Sally feels her mother has a right to know, but Kevin beats a hasty retreat upstairs instead of prolonging the discussion.
Mavis gets snippy with Alec when he stops momentarily to ask her and Derek about "the pressures of life." As Alec leaves, Derek gently reminds Mavis that Alec knows nothing about "their" fox. Jim MacDonald joins them, and seconds later, Percy also sits himself down at their table. He tells Jim that he just spoke to an old friend, who believes that the community is dealing with a fox. Mavis visibly swallows.
Back at the Webster's home, Sally's mother is reassuring Kevin that no one thinks it's his fault that he's in a legal bind. Kevin disagrees with her, since he was tired and not paying attention to his driving at the time of the accident. He asks his mother-in-law if she's really just there for a visit, or did Sally ask her to come, but before she can respond, Sally comes into the room, carrying baby Rosie who, as usual, will not go to sleep. Her mother chooses that moment to pull our her cheque-book and offer a loan, and as a relieved Sally kisses her in gratitude, Kevin announces that they're not taking "a flaming hand-out" from anyone.
Heather Morlan
Mrs. Seddon: BRENDA ELDER
Written by STEPHEN MALLATROTT Directed by DAVID LIDDIMENT
Monday (3188, Friday 15 February 1991)
The Siege of Reynard including The Boat that Launched a Thousand Storylines
At breakfast, the Wiltons reconfirm to keep the secret of the fix. Derek thinks it's a mistake to keep feeding it lest they be found out. To other people who don't understand the beauty of wild creatures, the fox is just vermin. Mavis is determined to put a bit of bacon out for it anyway and wraps up a piece from Derek's plate.
Des is pacing out his back garden, watched by a mystified Stephanie. Buried Treasure? Swimming pool? Close but no cigar and Des isn't giving out any useful hints. Derek and Mavis come out their back door and hastily hide the bacon. They too become curious, wondering if Des is planning a proper garden at last but Des still says little, keeping his secret to himself for now. He asks Steph if she can get home at lunch when all will be revealed. They retreat into their home while Derek and Mavis purse their lips and think nothing good can come of this. In the process the name Reynard is mentioned. Seems Mavis has named "their" fox!
At dinnertime, Mavis and Derek arrive at the Rovers just as Jack and Alec are discussing the fox that Jack believes killed his birds. Has to be a fox, Jack insists, to the skepticism of Alec and Percy, a cat wouldn't bite the heads right off the bird. Mavis stoutly reckons it was a stray cat but even Percy thinks it could be a fox, one from France with rabies that found it's way through the Channel Tunnel. Mavis is nervous and defensive, especially when Percy starts talking about putting poison down. It isn't right to poison innocent creatures and lectures them all on environmental issues but Jack is not buying it, not when his innocent pigeons were killed. that's not right either. Mavis has had enough and calls for Derek, We're leaving, not even allowing him to finish his drink (or even start it from what i can see!)
On the outside of the pub, Derek starts to lecture Mavis on the unwise showing of anger lest they be found out.... but his voice fades out as he spies a rather unusual phenomenon in the sky above. A boat! Actually the boat is being lifted by a crane over top of the new houses into the Barnes' back garden. Des and Steph look on the proceedings with excitement.
In the back garden, Des is perched on the prow of the boat like the King of the World, all excited and chattering about what fun he and Steph will have. He explains he got the boat for £500 but it needs a lot of work first before it will be water-worthy. Steph seems thrilled too but Mavis and Derek don't. Mavis thinks it's an eyesore and Derek is concerned that it cuts off the light from their kitchen window and how long will it be there anyway.
Over at the Rovers at afternoon closing, Jack sees the last of the punters out the door then tells Liz and Alec that he and his mate Bert are going on a fox hunt tonight. Alec's eyebrows are raised when he realizes this Bert is the same Bert that fleeced Jack with that dog at Christmas but Jack insists Bert is an expert at foxing. He reckons the fox will be back for another taste of pigeon and they will be lying in wait for it! Jack fantasizes about mounting the fox's brush over the mantle next to his bull fighting poster!
Liz brings the news about the fox hunt to the Kabin just after Mavis was having a good moan about that boat to Rita. Men get these enthusiasms then when they fade, what have you got? A monstrosity. Mavis is horrified to hear of the trap to be laid for her fox though hides it more or less. Rita laughs thinking it all a folly, there aren't any foxes in Weatherfield.
Derek arrives home to a frantic Mavis and is told about Jack's plans. They must help Reynard, warn him somehow! She's determined and has come up with a plan. She is sure Derek is able to help. He will lay a trail of bacon bits from the Duckworth's back yard to their garden to lure the fox away and into their garden where they will scare it away with a great clatter of pots and pans. Derek questions the success of such a plan but since he has none better, he's on board.
In Number 9, Curly is moaning and sighing over Kimberly. Vera, while plucking her eyebrows, tells him there are more fish in the sea. She wishes she'd thrown Jack back in, he's really only a "tiddler" though he thinks he's Moby Dick and she chortles at her joke. Just then Moby Dick arrives with Bert and Bert's dog Boomer who makes straight for Curly who greets his old pal with a few friendly ear scratches. Jack and Bert are somewhat the worse for the ale they've already drunk in preparation for the coming battle and crack open a new round they've brought with them.
Later, Bert is seen, nearly paralytic on the settee, Jack positively legless is expounding on the rights of men to defend their pigeons, and Curly, plastered to his eye teeth, lectures them all on the food chain. The fox is allowed to kill because it must eat and if Jack were to kill the fox and then eat it, fair enough. Curly ends up face down on the table while Vera, who's tongue is also loosened considerably more than usual (if that's possible), tells a story about her Auntie Marge who had a fox coat that she kept for special occasions. (the kind that actually has the fox head attached at the collar) Her Uncle Jim saw the coat on the table one night (after a few i don't doubt) and hacked it to death with a bread knife, swearing it had gone for his throat. There were even claw marks on his neck the next day, though Vera thinks that were just Auntie Marge! (*chuckle* I LOVE these stories of Vera and Jack's!)
Somewhat later still, Derek sets out on his mission, sneaking stealthily down the ginnel behind the old houses, laying his trail of bacon to the back garden of Number 9. Inside the three men are passed out on the settee while Vera is filling a hot water bottle. Derek quietly pushes the gate open but nearly has a heart attack when the dog on guard starts barking furiously, waking the sleepers inside. Derek starts and falls backward against the fence in terror!
Kevin's Pride and Prejudice.
Kevin comes home at dinner time and he apologizes to Sally about his harsh words that morning. He took it all out on Sally and shouldn't have. Sally apologizes too, saying they mustn't fall out no matter what happens. He helps her put some lunch together and while they do, and after they sit down, Sally does her best to try to convince Kevin to accept her mother's offer of financial help to pay off the debt. He's adamant that it won't happen, he's afraid Sally will think less of him if he did accept the money. Sally assures him she would never think less of him. He insists he got them into the debt and will get them out (even though he's tried everything. Stubborn fool!) She tries to impress on him that families help each other and she fires a shot that hits the target dead on though. She asks him, if Rosie were married and they needed help and her husband wouldn't let she and Kevin help out, what would he think of Rosie's husband? Kevin huffs and puffs and says he'd think the man was a right idiot. The light clicks on. Ok, Kevin admits, he sees where she's coming from. And just like that, he says all right, he'll accept the money. She's ecstatic and relieved, Kevin is relieved also and feeling a bit of a fool for putting them through it all in the first place and all is right in the Webster World again.
Rise and Fall of a friendship.
Angie collects the post, mostly birthday cards for Jenny who feels old at 20! (can it be just 2 years ago that her birthday was ruined by her father strangling Rita?) There's a card from Robert that makes her laugh but she won't show it to Angie, it's personal. Where's Angie's gift, then? Angie smiles secretively and says Jenny must wait until tonight because her gift is a party! It's all organized! Jenny is distinctly less than impressed because she already has plans. Robert is taking her out. did Angie invite Robert? No, she did not but defends herself saying that she didn't have Robert's address and his wife probably wouldn't let him go anyway. (meow!) Jenny also isn't happy her old mates from college were invited either, she already left that life behind (and her mates too? That's called Burning your bridges, honey! You'll regret it!) Angie tries to convince Jenny but it's no good, Jenny insists that she won't be there though Angie is free to have a party if she likes.
Jenny arrives home after work to find Angie doing school work and in a very bad mood, having spent the day canceling the party. Well, she should have cleared it with Jenny first, shouldn't she? Angie still couldn't get ahold of everyone and tells JEnny there will be a few people show up with gifts and SHE can tell them to go away. Jenny is snotty, insisting she's not going to be there and Angie is righteous about Jenny's affair with a married man until Jenny loses her red headed temper and has had enough of Angie always in her way and on her back about something and tells Angie she better find a new place to live!!!
Later that night, Rita sees Angie in the pub and asks why she's so down. Angie ends up telling Rita that Jenny's new man is married and Jenny seems to have chucked all her friends for him, including her! She leaves and Rita sits down with Reg and tells him she had suspected as much, knowing all the signs. Reg is uncomfortable with Rita's negativity over married men having bits on the side (and rightly so!). Jenny and Robert arrive and Rita is introduced but both sides are cool, and when Rita declines Robert's offer of a round, Jenny and Robert move to the other side of the pub.
Bert Latham - DAVE DUTTON Robert Weston - PHILIP
BRETHERTON
Writer - JOHN STEVENSON Director - JUNE HOWSON
Tuesday (3189, Monday 18 February 1991)
The saga of the fox continues. "Boomer" bays, men shout in mad confusion, and Derek tries to escape without being caught. Mavis stares anxiously out the window, and seeing the fox in her back garden, begins to frantically bang on a saucepan, all the while screaming "run! run! If they catch you, they'll kill you!"
In a more placid scene, Rita and Reg bid goodnight to other punters at the Rover's Return, and are greeted on the street by the clamour created by the fox. Percy and Alf put down their pints and rush out to investigate, while chaos prevails at the Duckworth residence. Bert's dog, on leash, pursues the scent of the fox, while little Rosie Webster can be heard screaming. Kevin rushes outside and tells them all to "keep it down." Derek, meanwhile, is skulking about, trying desperately to make his way home without being seen. In all this madness, Rita announces she's going to bed. "I'll join you," adds Reg, to which Rita archly responds, "would you like to rephrase that?"
Mavis continues her vigil at the window, muttering "run, poor hunted creature, wherever you may be," to herself. Out in the street, Jack, and Bert (who are quite drunk), and Boomer continue to create havoc. Tired and out of sorts, Kevin stands in his back garden insisting that they all want locking up.
Alec, Percy and Alf confront the fox pursuers and advise them to go to bed, but Jack insists that the fox was in his yard, and the dog now has its scent. Emily emerges from her home in her night clothes, and demands to know what is going on. Upon learning that they are in pursuit of a fox, she tells them all they should be ashamed of themselves, harrying the poor creature.
Derek bursts through his back door, and while he pants in exhaustion from his ordeal, Mavis witters on about how overjoyed she was to see the fox again. "Never mind the fox," Derek snorts, "they're hunting me!" and he begins searching their cupboards for a bottle of brandy. Mavis reminds him the brandy is for emergencies. "This IS one!" Derek snaps. He then explains that he walked straight into a trap, that the dog was lying in wait, and that they all but had him. "It was inches from my throat," he intones, "you were that close to being a widow." He explains his route back to their home, over various fences, at one point cracking his head on Des' boat. Mavis enthuses how pleased she is that Derek drew the others away from the fox, but she wishes that Derek could have seen it, as she had. "I did!" Derek informs her -- "we passed each other in the garden." Mavis is struck by how "wonderful" that must have been -- "two hunted creatures. You must have felt a great kinship!" Derek looks anything but pleased with the entire evening.
Reg is meanwhile staring out Rita's window as the din continues down on the street. Rita comments that she's not bothered by Jack Duckworth and his silliness; she's bothered about Jenny dating a married man. "She's not stupid," Rita observes, "so she must know what he's after -- what any married man is after." A little uncomfortable with the topic, Reg jumps to Robert's defence, noting that he was very civil and did offer to buy them a drink. He also notes that he knows what it's like to marry the wrong woman. Rita feels that Reg's case is quite different. After all, he is separated from his wife, whereas she suspects that Jenny's bloke goes home and tells his wife he's been working late at the office. Reg suggests that Rita talk to Jenny about the matter to find out what her boyfriend's status is, but Rita says she's going to keep her thoughts to herself, unless Jenny asks.
Back at the Wilton's, Mavis cleans Derek's scratched face and gleefully comments that she's sure the fox was so frightened that he won't be back. She describes her emotions as a mixture of joy that she thinks he'll be safe, but sorrow that she's probably seen the last of him. Derek notices that his pulse is racing, and has another brandy, against Mavis' advice. Suddenly the din from Jack and friends becomes very loud, and Derek panics, believing they're in the garden and after him. Mavis grabs her saucepan, while outside, Jack exhorts Boomer to find the fox. Mavis steps out her back door, and tells Jack and Bert that they cannot come into her garden, but they ignore her as Bert starts over the fence. "I'm warning you," Mavis yells, and with that, she whacks Bert on the head with the saucepan! Amazed at herself, she threatens to do it again if they come into her garden. Bert claims he'll have her in court for this, and a very upset Mavis tells them all to clear off or she'll "set about" the dog too. To her great relief, they retreat.
The following morning, a hung-over Jack tries to eat his breakfast while Vera harangues him about his behaviour the night before. She contends there was never a fox, but Jack swears the dog had its scent. Vera believes it's more likely that Bert was having Jack on, since Jack bought all his ale. As Jack continues to insist that there was a fox, Curly and Vera rush off to work.
While Angie also rushes to leave for her classes, Jenny comes down the stairs in her nightgown and asks her to call work and tell them she'll be late. Angie comments that yesterday, she was being told to find herself somewhere else to live, and today Jenny wants a favour. Jenny decides she'll call herself and tell them she has to see a dentist, which is nearly true. As Angie leaves for college, Jenny tells her to look for a room while she's there.
In the Kabin, Rita is amazed to learn that Mavis actually hit Bert on the head, and Mavis confesses she'd do it again if she had to. Jack arrives, and announces he has a bone to pick -- he can't believe Mavis clobbered his friend when they were only trying to rid the community of "a vicious animal." Mavis retorts that there were three "vicious animals" out last night -- Jack, his friend, and the dog. Jack thinks it's suspicious that the dog led them to Mavis' back garden, and suggests that she was "harbouring" the fox. "Deny it if you can," Jack adds, but Mavis dismisses his allegations by saying she won't "bandy words" with him. As Jack leaves, Mavis smiles to herself like the cat that swallowed the canary, and the penny drops when Rita realizes that the saucepan-banging she heard the night before was Mavis trying to scare the fox away.
Jack goes into the pub, only to meet with more derision when Bet and Alec ask if he has a ticket for the Weatherfield Fox and Hound Ball. An annoyed Jack tells them to go ahead and make fun, but there was a fox. Kevin approaches, and warns Jack that Sally will go spare if there's a repeat performance of last night. Kevin doesn't believe there was a fox, either.
Phil Jennings enters the Rover's Return, and asks for a word with Alec, while Liz whispers to Bet that she always thinks something dodgy is going on when she sees Phil.
At the Wilton's, Mavis tells Derek that she actually feels sorry for Jack Duckworth because no one believes there ever was a fox, so he's making a fool of himself in everyone's eyes. "You know, Mavis," Derek tells her, "you have a wonderful tenderness for dumb animals -- including Jack Duckworth."
Liz MacDonald visits Dierdre and asks about Phil moving in next door. Dierdre has no idea what Liz is talking about, prompting Liz to apologise. She confirms that Phil has plans to move into the Rover's Return that evening. A shocked Dierdre has to attend a Council meeting, but asks Liz to keep her informed.
Percy is polishing his medals when Emily arrives home for a doctor's appointment, looking rather solemn. He offers to run to the chemist to pick up any prescription she may need filled, but she graciously declines.
Jenny rushes into the Kabin to see Rita, complaining of her job at the perfume counter. When Rita asks if Jenny is planning a quiet night in, Jenny responds that she's going out again, with Robert. As Jenny waxes poetic about her new flame, she pronounces that he has a wonderful sense of humour, prompting Rita to add, "I hope his wife has a sense of humour too." An uncomfortable silence follows, and Rita admits that she shouldn't have said that. Jenny presumes that it was Angie who told Rita of Robert's marital status.
Back at the Rover's Return, Bet and Alex discuss letting a room to Phil Jennings. Alec leads Phil to the back of the pub, which Jack gathers empty glasses. He stops at a table, where Derek and Mavis are enjoying a drink, and accuses them of knowing more about the fox than they're letting on. "Ah yes, the Phantom Fox," laughs Derek. After a brief discussion, Mavis confesses that there was a fox, but they just couldn't let anyone kill such a beautiful creature.
The phone is ringing at the Duckworth's, and Curly goes to answer. It's Vera's Auntie Sissy with bad news -- Vera's mom has died. Vera sits down in shock and tells Curly that she was thinking of her mother that morning, and of a hat her mom had when Vera was a child. She was so proud of it, and only wore it on special occasions. One day, Vera used a chair to retrieve the hat from her mother's wardrobe, and she put the hat on and paraded up and down the street with it. The feather got bent, but when her mom caught her, she didn't slap her -- instead, she cried. Vera breaks down over this memory because her mother "never had ought." Jack arrives home at that moment, hollering that the fox is real, but when he learns of Vera's loss, he puts his arms around her and holds her close.
Angie arrives home to an upset Jenny, who accuses her of being unable to keep her mouth shut. Angie admits she was angry when she told Rita that Robert is married, but she points out to Jenny that when you play around with a married man, getting caught is part of the whole scenario. Jenny tells her she wants her out of the house first thing tomorrow, and when Angie asks where she suggests she'll go, Jenny responds she can sleep in a cardboard box for all she cares. Angie informs her that she pays her rent to Rita, and the house is not Jenny's -- it belongs to somebody else, "just like your boyfriend." After a frigid stare, Jenny leaves, slamming the door behind her, while Angie strikes a pose of complete frustration.
Heather Morlan
Bert Latham: DAVE DUTTON
Written by JOHN STEVENSON Directed by RICHARD SIGNY
Wednesday (3190, Wednesday 20 February 1991)
First thing in the morning at the Duckworths and Curly tenderly tells Vera not to worry about the job, hell put in for compassionate leave for her. When he leaves, Vera talks to Jack about what needs to be done for the funeral and starts to break down as she reflects back on her relationship with her mother. Jack gives her a soothing word and manages to comfort her a little.
Breakfast in the Rovers and Bet is giving Phil Jennings the royal treatment, offering to cook him a full English breakfast. Alec has already surrendered his paper to Phil and now has trouble hiding his annoyance at Bets fawning. He gets up to "help" her in the kitchen but Phil stops him to have a word. If anyone should come calling for him, hes to say he isnt there. In fact, he should say hes never even heard of him! Alec nods his understanding but is clearly bothered about what Phil is up to.
Emilys off to the hospital and isnt sure shell be back for tea. Percy offers to accompany her but she prefers to go alone. He tries to wheedle out of her the reason for her visit but she politely tells him to mind his own business. She would like to keep the reason for her visit to herself as she doesnt want her business being broadcast throughout the neighbourhood, impossible though that may seem.
As they get the Rovers ready for opening, Jack tells Bet and Alec about Veras mother passing. Apparently, she went while playing bingo. Jack thinks thats just about the best way anyone could go but it suddenly occurs to him that she have had a winning card. He wonders if anyone thought to check her numbers Alec is on the same wavelength. He conjectures that if she had won, her winnings might have been enough to pay for the funeral.
Percy, heedless of Emilys wishes, wastes no time going over to the Kabin to have a "quiet word" with Mavis. They go off to a private corner and while he is bending her ear, Angie pops into the Kabin to pay her rent. Rita apologises for spilling the beans to Jenny but Angie brushes it off. Rita expresses her concern and asks why Jenny would choose a married man when she could have her pick. Angie, who looks a bit fed up at this point, (she has to live with Jenny, after all) reckons that Jenny is prone to self destructive behaviour. She pauses before leaving long enough to ask Rita for clarification that she (not Jenny) is in fact the landlady. Rita is moved to respond, "That bad, is it?"
In the Rovers, Jack explains to Kevin his reasons for not accompanying Vera to make the funeral arrangements for her mother. "For some folk, its flying; others, its hospitals; me, its funerals." Kevin listens in amusement as Jack launches into the reason for his aversion Seems his Aunty Florrie did some undertaking in the days when people still used their front parlours. He used to dread his aunt inquiring after the state of his health Bet curtly interrupts Jacks reverie to send him down to the cellar.
Alone at a table, Phil Jennings is conducting some kind of business from his cell phone while Alec eyes him carefully from behind the bar. Alec may be suspicious but Bet has nothing but admiring glances for Phil. We hear the tail end of his conversation, "Remember, these lads dont mess around." Just as he ends his call, Deirdre happens in and joins him at his table. She wants to know what hes up to, moving in right next door and not even bothering to tell her. Shes somewhat miffed that she had to hear about it second hand. He tries to kid her that its a matter of "convenience", being close to her, but she isnt buying it. He then tells her the real reason. Hes trying to keep out of the way of certain people for a few days but, he hastens to emphasise, there is nothing underhanded in it. Deirdre isnt quite convinced but she lets it slide.
Percy has lunch ready when Emily returns from the hospital and as they sit down to eat, he again fishes for information regarding her visit. She assures him that there is nothing to worry about but she seems depressed and he is worried. In a pensive mood, she asks him if he can look back on his life with some satisfaction. He tells her that yes, he is basically satisfied that hes "done his bit". She confesses that she doesnt feel her life has amounted to much, an assertion Percy vigorously refutes. "Mrs. Bishop you've been a fine example of decency and right-mindedness!", he tells her. "An example of quite good table manners, Mr. Sugden", she sarcastically replies. She tells him she wants to do something with the rest of her days. She wants to be have the satisfaction of feeling that shes "done her bit".
In the backroom of the Kabin, Rita is confiding to Bet her worries about Jenny. Bet understands her friends concern but points out that there isnt much to be done. Rita says she cant just stand by and watch Jenny destroy her life. Bet advises her in that case to talk to Jenny, as long as she doesnt expect her to listen. After all, they wouldnt have listened at Jennys age. Rita concurs, she still has the scars to prove it!
Also in the Kabin, Phil steps up to the counter to purchase a Gazette and before Mavis has even rung in the sale, he starts thumbing through the paper. Mavis jokingly suggests that people who open the paper in the store do so because they expect their picture to be in it and Phil returns with a lighthearted joke about a "mug shot". As he leaves, Rita and Bet return to the area of the counter and Bet wryly asks Rita if shed prefer to see Jenny with the likes of him. Rita quips that shed definitely put her foot down then - but she wouldnt mind him for herself! Bet apparently is in agreement but Mavis, with sniff and a little toss of her head reveals that he isnt her type at all - she thinks he lacks "breeding".
The atmosphere at No. 7 is tense. If Jenny cant force Angie out, shes certainly going to make her life uncomfortable. While Angie sits at the dining table trying to study, Jenny insists on telling her the details of her lunch today with Robert. When Angie says she isnt interested, Jenny shouts her down, saying shes only telling her so that she can tell someone who is! Robert calls and Angie hands the phone to Jenny, then realises she is expected to leave the room. Jenny watches as she gathers up her books and coldly stares after her as she goes up the stairs. Settling herself on the sofa, she tells Robert that she "just had to put the cat out". (Shes hard to like, isnt she?)
Vera comes home looking tired and frazzled and is surprised to see that Jack is home. As he sits in front of the telly watching football, he tells her that he took the rest of the day off to be with her! Poor Vera, at least she found some comfort in the Church of England. "Theyre there when you want Christening and theyre there when you want burying, and they dont even mind that you didnt go in between!", she ruefully reflects. She sits herself down and asks if Jacks had his tea. Curly fixed something earlier, he tells her, but if shes going to get something on for herself, he wouldnt mind eating again! When she asks where Curly is now, Jack remembers to tell her that Raquel happened by with a condolence card and she and Curly went down to the pub.
Down at the pub, Alec is still ruminating over what Phil Jennings game is. He has a futile search through the newspaper for any clues and then speculates to Bet that they might be unwittingly providing Phils "alibi". Bet thinks an alibi at 20 quid a night is a good deal for them. Anyway, she doesnt seem to mind what Phils reason for being around is. He improves her posture, she says.
Percy is making his way around the pub selling raffle tickets for the hospital. He takes the opportunity to speak to Mavis again about Emily. When he tells her that Mrs. Barlow (Deirdre) agrees with him, and that its nice to see *some* of her friends care, Mavis takes exception. Telling him that she doesnt wish to discuss her friends "private concerns with a walking megaphone in a flat cap", she walks out, leaving Derek on his own. Derek heaves a sigh and says he wishes people wouldnt get his wife so wound up. He is the one that has to unravel her!
Curly and Raquel are also in the Rovers, trying to smooth things over from their last date. After he apologises for comparing her to Kimberly, he tells Raquel that she is "beyond compare", which seems to be the kind of thing he should say more often to get in this girls good books - she doesnt mind a bit.
Alec has been stewing about Phil all this time and now informs Bet that if hes not back by closing, hell find hes locked out! Bet steals her husbands thunder by calmly informing him that shes given Phil a key.
Speaking of Phil, he is at this moment calling over at Deirdres with a bottle of wine. She seems happy to see him and its clear that shes forgiven him for moving in next door without telling her.
Meanwhile, Rita pops in to see Jenny. She wants them to go for a drink together but Jenny insists that they have it out there. Rita starts out calmly, she doesnt want to fall out, just wants Jenny to see what shes doing. Jenny tells Rita that her eyes are wide open, she knows what shes doing. Rita is surprised at Jennys cynicism but Jenny maintains it doesnt make any difference as "were all dead in the end so what does it matter what happens in between?" (I never liked her!) Rita musters all her patience to try to deal with the matter without upsetting Jenny. Drawing a breath, she asks what about his wife and kids? They, according to Jenny, are Roberts lookout! Rita tries one last appeal but Jenny is not hearing it. "Its my life", she shouts, "and I wont have people telling me how I can live it!" Ritas on her way out now. She knows shell lose her temper if she stays. Just before she goes, she informs Jenny that she knows all the pitfalls of what Jennys doing, not because she is wise, but because she learned the hard way. She leaves her with a warning: The road she is on leads straight to grief!
Alec is locking up the pub now and as he opens the front door to set the milk bottles out, a big hulking shadow crosses in front of him. Alecs eyes widen as he looks up, way up, to see a mountain man standing before him. With a menacing grin and in a Scots accent, the big man asks for Phil Jennings. Alec denies knowing who Phil is but his stuttering and figetting gives him away, the big man sees right through him. He instructs the landlord to give Phil the following message: "Tell him, Scotch Tommy and the lads will be waiting for him in the morning across the road." Then slowly, condescendingly, "Now can you tell him that for me, eh?" Alec looks like hes just wet himself as he nods his understanding. Quaking with fear, he dives back into the shelter of the pub, bolting the door behind him.
Scotch Tommy CLIVE RUSSELL
Written by JULIAN ROACH
Thursday (3191, Friday 22 February 1991)
It's the morning after and Bet tries to find out if Alec spoke to Phil about the visit from Scotch Tommy but alec at first tries to avoid the subject, muttering about herbal tea and caffeine. Actually, Alec hasn't asked him yet. Bit knows it's because Alec got a good scare and doesn't want to get further involved in what seems to be the seedy underside of Weatherfield. Bet is worried if Phil IS actually involved in the mob then where does it leave them so she warns alec not to sit wobbling on the fence until it's too flaming late! Alec looks a fright!
Jack has high praise for the lovely Raquel but Curly doesn't seem smitten though she's nice enough. He's not interested in outward appearances but what's underneath. This elicits a knowing leer from Jack the Lad who agrees with that theory but notes that every time *he* tries to find out, he gets his wrist slapped! (I'll just bet!) Vera comes in looking very tired and sighing that she was awake much of the night regretting the rotten things she said to her mother over the years when she weren't such a bad mother really. She should have visited her mum more or had her round. Jack and Curly are sensitive and Jack says she can blame that last one on him if she likes. Too flaming right, since Jack never could stand the sight of his mother in law and she's insistent that they will both beg Amy's forgiveness at the graveside on Monday. Jack gets al shivery at the thought of funerals and tries to get out of it saying he'd be more of a liability to her than support. So what else is new, Vera snaps in disgust.
Phil comes into the living room for breakfast so Bet tactfully leaves Alec to interrogate Phil. Alec works up to it and tells Phil nervously about the visit by Scotch Tommy the night before. Oh, he turned up then? Alec gasps. But it turns out, according to Phil that Tommy and his gang fit out places for Phil and were doing a job for him. Scotch Tommy's a pussycat! Alec isn't quite sure but blames Bet's "women's fears" what with the way Phil is staying with them under wraps and all. Oh yes, Phil recites his explanation to that too, (like a well rehearsed speech if you ask me!). It's to do with a court case. That alarms Alec but Phil tells him the defense want him to testify but the prosecution would rather have him instead and want him to lie low until the trial so the scumbag can be put away. Phil acts conspiratorial letting Alec in on the secret so that Alec feels privileged, telling Alec he likes having the law owe him a favour but "begs" him not to say a word to anyone especially Bet lest she gossip. More of that Gawdawful nose bashing, Alec Gilroy knows when to keep it buttoned!
Reg arrives at the pub at lunchtime looking for congenial female company and finds Rita there having a drink with Alf. First though, he offers condolences to Jack on the passing of his mother in law. He's given Vera the day off for the funeral. She'll feel better once that's done. Jack shivers again wondering if he'll get through it without a nervous breakdown which Reg interprets as Jack's grief and commends him for his sensitivity. LOL Alf shakes his head wondering what Rita sees in the pompous little windbag. Rita agrees he is that but has a good heart and is good for the ego. Proving this last point, Reg invites her out to a romantic meal at an Italian trattoria that evening.
Emily searches through the cards at the Kabin and complains to Mavis about the dreary month of February. Mavis broaches a tender subject with her, hoping to encourage Emily to open up to her best friend about her troubles but does it in a typically Mavis-like ambiguous way. Emily seems to think Mavis wants to confide in her about a female marital problem and assures Mavis she knows all about it, she didn't marry Ernest in the first flush of youth either. This leads to the untangling of the threads and as Deirdre comes in as well, expressing her concern for Emily's health, Emily realizes Percy has been sticking his nose in again. She assures her friends she's in the top form of health and sets out to put Percy to rights. Deirdre and Mavis speculate if Emily truly is well or just covering but think maybe all is well.
Alf bursts in to the Kabin shortly after and is in full rant because it appears that Phil Jennings may be opening up an amusement arcade on the street! They all rush out to see Phil's crew erecting P.J. Leisure signs on the empty factory unit at Number 14. Phil later tells Deirdre it's just a repair and storage center for the machines as Coronation Street is just not a profitable enough neighbourhood for that sort of thing. Deirdre is skeptical, wondering if Phil is doing his usual ducking and diving and verbal dodging since he never tells her anything like moving in to the Rovers or about this new venture. He likes to think they're more than just friends but that doesn't mean he has to give her chapter and verse about all his comings and going does it? (Well not all but some things, surely!)
Percy arrives home from the library and a mission of mercy. He tells Mrs. Bishop how he helped someone find a contact lens though he can't see how putting fiddly pieces of plastic in your eyes is better than a good old fashioned pair of spectacles. Emily sets right to business. How many times has she told him not to stick his nose in her or anyone else's business? Well, several times, or dozens really. She scolds him roundly for telling her friends that she's near to death's door! He does think it's his business if she's ill, then her friends should know to be there to help. No way. She's perfectly fine and even if she weren't it isn't his place to tell people, is that clear. He faintly offers a yes but the phone rings. Percy overhears Emily sounding rather disappointed that it's only 6 months when she was told 12. She asks him to take her dinner out of the oven while she leaves to take care of something. So much for listening, he springs into action as soon as she leaves without a thought to the dinner drying out in the cooker!
He follows her to the hospital and spies her coming out of an office. She spies him too and catches up to him as he tries to get out of her line of vision. She sighs and takes him home to tell him the truth. And about time too! turns out she's setting up a charity shop in another of the empty units on Coronation Street, for the Friends of Weatherfield General Hospital. They were arranging a cheap lease with Maurice Jones and had to keep it a secret lest any other charities get wind of it and get in there first! The least was hoped to be 12 months but is only 6 because Jones was hoping to sell the unit. Percy offers his admiration and assistance.
Rita drops over again to try once again to get Jenny to see reason. Jenny is immediately aggressive and her face is all pulled with superior righteousness and resentment at Rita's interference. (she needs a slap, she really does!) Rita is determined to make Jenny see the heartbreak ahead but Jenny assures her she knows all the arguments, save your breath. It's not a case of a dirty old man luring a victim to a horrible fate, she knows what she's doing. Does she? Well does anyone really, Jenny offers. Look at Sally and Gail? All saddled with nappies and boring lives with boring little men. Rita points out that Martin used to be her friend. Jenny sniffs that she's outgrown Martin. (slap her hard!) Steph, too, will eventually get bogged down in domesticity once she's married longer. Rita accuses her of being grossly unfair to a bunch of perfectly contented people. Jenny agrees tentatively but it's not what she wants which is independence and that's what Robert can give her. He's setting her up in a little flat and will be around when he can. When he can't, she won't sit crying at home either! When Rita asks where the love, companionship and sharing come into the little idyll, Jenny haughtily condescends to explain. At least they won't get bored living in each other's pockets and she doubts all that lovey dovey stuff even exists. Look at the examples she's had! Her mum and dad never got along and then there was Alan and Rita too. who's to say her way won't bring any less grief? This seems to score at least one point as a modicum of understanding crosses Rita's face.
(I missed a bit here, just after the commercial break but it seems Emily's told Mavis about the charity shop and scolding Mavis, telling her that at least the shop benefits the hospital and the community and even encourages recycling which should please "green" Derek!) After Emily leaves, Reg arrives looking for Rita who enters just behind him, scowling about wasting her time with Jenny. To add to that Reg must break their date! Something has come up at work he says. Rita doesn't seem too overly broken up about it but comments to Mavis later that she could have done with relaxing over a bottle of chianti and a meal someone else cooked. (and paid for!) When asked about Jenny, Rita agrees that Jenny didn't exactly have great examples of how a proper relationship works. Mavis dismisses that, people shouldn't blame their faults on their pasts. Her parents were happy enough but they were never very demonstrative or warm but she's turned out just fine, quite the opposite when it comes to Derek, matter of fact! Rita supposes Jenny could be just making excuses for doing what she wants to . In any case, there isn't any more she can do.
Curly scolds Jack for making tasteless jokes about mortality. Jack is still shivering at the though of death, the whole idea depresses him. Oh, Vera snaps, her voice dripping with sarcasm, that's funny, it makes us feel full of the joys of spring, don't it, Curly? Vera warns Jack that he's not slipping out after the service but is going back for the reading of the will afterward and there's no more to be said about it. Jack doesn't figure Amy had much more to leave than a false set of choppers and a sheaf of parking ticket summonses but Vera feels that if her mother went to the trouble of doing it right and making a will, they have to show her the respect. He'll be there else they'll be digging two holes, she threatens.
There's Reg at the airport and lo and behold his Lady Wife arrives back from New Zealand! She complains about the long flight and the customs search. Reg expresses surprise that she is back much earlier than expected. He was wondering why her sister was so abrupt with him on the phone when she called to tell him but there's no comment from Veronica on that. He gets a taxi but his face freezes with impending doom when Veronica redirects the cab driver to Coronation Street, Weatherfield, that IS where your latest lady friend has her shop isn't it? Uh Oh!
Scotch Tommy - CLIVE RUSSELL Veronica Holdsworth
- PATRICIA MAYNARD
Writer - ADELE ROSE Director - RICHARD SIGNY
Friday (3192, Monday 25 February 1991)
And who is back from New Zealand but Mrs. Holdsworth! Reg is left paying the taxi in front of the Kabin as she goes in and gives Rita an earful while Reg comes in and squirms, and Deirdre and Steph look on uncomfortably. Rita orders Reg out now and forever!
At the Rovers, Emily begs clothes for the charity shop from Bet, who is glad to oblige, to Alecs dismay (as he knows she will replace them with new ones bought out of his pocket).
Rita is up in her flat when Reg buzzes. She tells him to get lost - even when Reg tells her he has left Veronica and is without a roof over his head. Rita has no sympathy and Reg is left to wander the streets.
Alec and Phil are boozing it up at the Rovers, and Alec is telling him about his regrets of ending up in the Rovers and his grand plans, long gone, of being an impresario.
As Steph and Jenny are on their way to work, Steph tells Jenny about the scene with Mrs. Holdsworth in the Kabin. Speaking of the Kabin, Rita tells Mavis all about Reg and his missus, and she wont answer the phone in case it is him.
Jack and Vera are off to her mothers funeral, with Vera instructing Jack to keep his face straight and his gob shut, and no questions about shoplifting or what she has left her.
Bet drops off some clothes to the charity shop and is thanked by Emily and Deirdre. When Bet arrives back at the Rovers, she finds Alec with a long face, depressed with his life and what he hasnt done. Bet blames his hangover, from drinking with Phil last night.
Vera and Jack are having a post-funeral meal with Auntie Cissie and friends of her mothers, when they meet Joss and find out her mother left a will.
At Angies and Jennys, Angie continues to give Jenny grief over Robert, repeating he is married, too old and too good looking.
Jack and Vera are reminiscing about her mum, with Joss and Cissie and the others. Joss has arranged for a mate with a second hand shop to do a valuation of all the odds and ends that Veras mum left. There is no money but there is a locket. And Joss reads out her mums last words - which are for Vera to take care of Joss.
Phil and Alec are boozing again at the Rovers and Alec is subtly pitching his idea for a nightclub to Phil. Bet has a quiet word with Phil about Alec and his pipe dreams. Jenny and the married, too old and too good looking Robert come in and join Rita and Deirdre. Jenny wastes no time while Robert is getting the drinks telling Rita that she shouldnt be bothered about Robert being married since she found out about Mrs. Holdsworth. Robert brings the drinks over while Jenny looks very smug and self satisfied.
Vera is telling Joss that her mum had never mentioned him to her - and Joss gently reprimands her for not seeing much of her mum lately. Aunt Cissie tells Jack that she thought Veras mum thought more of Joss than of her husband. And then, Joss tells Vera that her mum knew what she was doing, bringing the two of them together Joss is Veras father!
Veronica Holdsworth: PATRICIA MAYNARD Aunt
Cassie: FRACES COX Joss Shackleton: HAROLD GOODWIN Taxi Driver:
JOSEPH LEY Ruby: ANN RYE
Writer: LESLIE DUXBURY Director: BRIAN MILLS
Monday (3193, Wednesday 27 February 1991)
Vera's up in the middle of the night, with difficulty sleeping. She is browsing through an box of old photos of her and her family over the years. Jack urges her to come back to bed but she's not ready yet. She wants to talk about Joss. Jack asks does she really want his opinion and gives it to her, he thinks Joss is a nutter! Out for what he can get no doubt. Vera's argument is a question of why her mother would have mentioned him in her will if he wasn't her father (has everyone forgotten it was a last minute dictation into Joss's ear? I have never ever accepted Joss as Vera's father and never will unless valid DNA evidence comes to light! ) Jack insists there needs to be more evidence and asks her not to make any decisions now while she's grieving. She needs a chance to think things through properly.
The next morning, very early as we see the milk truck rattling by and the postman on his rounds, Robert arrives to pick up Jenny who smiles and kisses him very obviously for Rita's benefit as she's caught her eye from across the road. Robert chides Jenny for making enemies instead of friends in a destructive streak. Jenny just shrugs and says there's not much difference. She's very hard and callous as Robert doesn't think she should have shown Rita up in the pub, saying that Rita had it coming (Now, Jenny, dear, you shouldn't be showing your bad side to your new boyfriend this early in the relationship! Not good form!). They get in the car and drive off as Rita watches from across the road, distracted when Mavis asks her if she wants a coffee.
The charity shop is a hive of activity as Emily and her little band of bees are busy setting things up. Emily and Percy argue over the window washing and Emily's friend Ruby suspiciously sniffs a jacket, wondering why old men's things always smell like... old men! Deirdre stops by on her way to the corner shop, noticing the early start. Emily is nearly beside herself at contending with a "helpful" Percy under their feet. Deirdre reckons it's still a good 6 hours until the official opening, till the ship sails but Emily woefully predicts a man overboard before then. They laugh and Deirdre confirms her presence as the official ribbon-cutter that afternoon while Emily is hoping to get some newspaper coverage.
In the pub, Bet and Alec face the back wall of the pub, seeing to the cash etc, and discussing Alec's new venture with Phil Jennings. The "come-through" gate of the bar is lifted open and Betty is polishing a section of the bar just beside it, listening for all she's worth. Alec wants to start up a nightclub with Phil Jennings who has the entrepeneurship to match Alec's contacts and experience. Alec explains with enthusiasm to Bet all about target age groups and supply and demand since there's only one grotty place in Weatherfield for the youngsters to spend their brass. Bet isn't keen but Alec thinks she should look past her tunnel vision to the future. Bet is concerned because she thinks Phil Jennings isn't to be trusted, he's bent, Alec! And because, silently, she doesn't like the change, wants things to be as they are now in her nice safe little nest. As Betty wears out that spot in the bar, Bet warns Alec to be careful and not to agree to anything. Just then Phil bounds down the stairs and out to get a newspaper. Alec sends Betty to the kitchen to make Phil some breakfast. No thank you's, no extra dosh, which Betty succinctly points out. Alec sighs and says with supreme impatience, Small Mindedness, I'm plagued with it! He plods off and Bet's face is mirrored with apprehension.
Over in the charity shop, one of the fellow Friends of Weatherfield, a formidable woman called Ruby, empathizes with Emily. She's heard of Emily's lodger for years but seeing really is believing. He reminds her of a Jack Russell terrier! Emily informs Ruby that Percy responds best to orders (like a good soldier) but when Ruby gives it a go, Percy only balks! Emily steps out for a few moments, leaving Ruby and Percy to trade insults. She observes that he's quite active for his age but he snaps in perfect Churchill imitation, Too bad you're not!
Jenny slips quietly into Robert's office at dinnertime, waiting for his receptionist to leave for her lunch first. She'll pretend to be a new patient if discovered. He mentions how intolerable his situation is becoming at home so she makes sure he knows she knows the score and the signs when a married man tires of his bit on the side. He launches into a speech that Jenny believes is leading up to the big kiss off but is delighted when he tells her he's leaving his wife for her! I Love You's are happily exchanged but Robert looks somewhat doubtful over his decision if you ask me.
That afternoon, Mr. Sugden bullies the crowds gathering in front of the charity shop (which will in later years become the salon and looks entirely too small for it! Was it expanded on it's outside as well as inside?) Phil drives up with Deirdre, encouraging her out of her nervousness. They move toward the door as a reporting and photographer arrive just after them. Emily makes a lovely little speech on behalf of the hospital and giving Maurice Jones some free publicity too, mentioning the temporary lease. Deirdre adds a few words and officially cuts the ribbon. Bet and Alec are watching from across the cobbles. Alec as usual is all piss and vinegar about it with Bet waving at Deirdre and giving Alec the elbow about his moaning. It's for charity, a word not in Alec's vocabulary, she snaps. Phil comes across while more photos are taken and arouses Bet's suspicions by praising Councillor Barlow's political acumen. We notice Vera drive off in her car, oblivious of the festive occasion so nearby.
In the pub, Bet has a word with Phil while Alec takes a phone call. She quizzes him on the big plans and warns him that Alec can be dangerous let loose in his little fantasies. Phil seems optimistic that they can make a success but Bet, preferring the status quo, asks him to drop the plans. Phil sees where she stands but flatters her, telling her that Alec had planned to have her in all her glory manage the new club. Bet raises an eyebrow, saying that Alec never told her that. Phil leans forward, did he not? (Damn well he did not, since it is obvious Phil just thought of it now!). Elsewhere Jack tries to confide in Betty on his worries about Vera and her inherited "Uncle Joss" but they are too busy serving to get into any further detail so Betty agrees to come visit Vera during closing to try to cheer her up.
The charity shop looks crowded but mostly because everyone is bringing stuff in to drop off, not buying but Ruby assures her it's normal for the first few weeks. Percy isn't encouraging custom with his left handed compliments putting them off and he can't understand why Emily is looking at him with such a long face!
After closing time, Alec is still banging on about clubs so Bet throws out the bait. Just what does he think makes a really good club? Oh, the Front Man of course, who gives it the overall atmosphere. Really? Bet archly comments that Phil thought Alec was of a different mind, a Front Woman, Bet herself! Alec gasps and asks when Phil said that, horrified at the thought of it (and of Phil making plans without his knowledge no doubt). Bet observes that Alec seems to have gone off the idea now, smiling over her teacup, smelling victory.
Betty arrives at Vera and Jack's with some flowers and a kind word but is surprise when Vera introduces an older man as her father! Joss! Jack rolls his eyes up to heaven in dread.
Rita is waiting at Number 7 with Angie while Jenny is in the shower. Angie retreats when Jenny arrives, guards up and ready for another fight. Jenny simpers that all she did wrong was fall in love and really, she's 20, old enough to know what she wants. Right, she's 20 (as in, "only" 20) and Rita tries to reason one last time with Jenny who has told Rita that Robert is leaving his wife for her. And moving in here? Rita then pulls rank as landlady, telling Jenny she still owns the house and Jenny is a lodger same as Angie. Oh that's rich, i'm just like your own when it suits you and a lodger when it doesn't, Jenny flings. Jenny makes a big mistake then, by reminding Rita of all the disappointments and let-downs she's had in her life, most of which she let happen and vows never to end up like that. Rita proves that she too has a red-headed temper and lets loose, warning Jenny not to dare speak to her like that!! Oh yes, Rita agrees, she's made mistakes but she will be damned if she'll let a selfish little bitch her her tell her where she went wrong and that she let it all happen. Robert is moving into "her" house over Her Dead Body! Jenny seems very well put in her place and with that, Rita storms out, bravely holding tears of anguish and anger until she is outside, striding purposefully across the cobbles to let herself in her own door.
Robert Preston - PHILIP BRETHERTON Ruby - ANN
RYE Journalist - ANDREW STANSON
Writer - PAUL ABBOTT Director - BRIAN MILLS
Tuesday (3194, Friday 1 March 1991)
Vera is telling Jack to clean up as she is bringing Joss back to the house this afternoon. Jack says that Joss was just here yesterday, but Vera insists he is welcome anytime, as he is her father.
Angie is packing up as she is moving out tonight, so Robert can move in. The inevitable argument ensues, with Jenny telling Angie that Robert cares about his family, so he's is going to pick his moment to tell them he is leaving, and Angie retorting sure he cares, that's why he is walking out on them.
At the Kabin, Mavis tells Rita that she thinks Jenny has her nerve, moving Robert into Rita's house, but Rita feels that with Jenny close, she will be there to pick up the pieces when it ends.
Alec is working on the books, when Bet brings him more bills to pay. He is very grumpy, and Bet thinks it is because of the club that he and Phil are planning. Alec hasn't mentioned it since Phil suggested putting Bet's name over the door. Alec says no, he is just being cautious.
At the charity shop, Percy is ruling with an iron fist, straightening things out and keeping them that way. Emily sends him on his lunch break but he finds that Ruby has sold his waistcoat, which he left on the counter. (I must say that Ruby looked a treat with what could only be a Canadian-inspired toque on her head!)
Angie grabs a sandwich at the Rovers and Rita joins her, trying to convince her to stay with Jenny another week, but Angie has had enough of being caught in the middle of Jenny and everyone else.
Phil arrives at Deirdre's to take her out for lunch. Although she has a lot of work to do, his sweet-talking convinces her to go. He tells her a tale about helping the police by laying low so he couldn't be called as a witness for the defense in a trial of some bloke he says he didn't even know. He looks relieved when Deirdre seems to accept his explanation.
Alec is on the phone to one of his former ìactsî when Bet confronts him about still being upset at Phil's proposal to put her name above the door of the new club. A pep talk from Bet gets Alec to agree to pursue the club plan with Phil.
Back at the charity shop, Percy is still hounding poor Ruby about who she sold his waistcoat to. Emily finally intervenes and sends Percy for his lunch.
Phil pops into the Rovers for a drink with Alec - it turns out to be a celebratory drink as Alec tells him the club is a go! Phil has named the club the "AL PHI BET" club, after the three of them. They toast to its success.
Joss is at the Duckworth's having tea with Vera, when Jack comes in, fit to be tied as he has been left to work behind the bar all by himself. He snarks at Vera, insults Joss and then goes to feed his pigeons, which he didn't get to this morning, as he had to tidy up for Vera. Joss gets up to leave, but Vera insists that he is most welcome and must stay.
Angie drops into the Kabin to tell Rita that she is staying at the house for another week, but for no other reason than the room she is moving to will not be ready for another week.
Vera is setting the table when Curly arrives home, and he comments on the delicious smell of steak and kidney pie in the oven. Curly wants to go clean up before eating, but Vera tells him that Joss is taking a bath. Curly is pleased to hear that Vera and Joss are getting close, until Vera tells him that Joss is going to stay over and Curly must sleep on the settee so Joss can have his room!
Alec and Phil are taking a walk around the outside of the old (Graffiti?) club premises, and Alec is enthusiastic about using this location for the ALPHIBET club.
Jenny drives up with Robert and they are going in the house when Angie approaches and tells Jenny they have to talk. Jenny says she and Robert need to talk to Angie too.
Curly is over at the Rovers for a pint, complaining to Jack about losing his bed to Joss. Percy is sitting with Emily and Deirdre, eyeing all the fellows in the Rovers that look like they are wearing his waistcoat that was sold. Deirdre tells him that there must be hundreds of them around and Emily tells Percy to stay put as he has caused enough upset for one day.
Jenny goes round to Rita's for a chat and tells her how sorry she is and how she feels that Rita has been like a mother to her. (I don't trust this Jenny Bradley, the whole time I was waiting for the other shoe to drop!) Then she tells Rita that she is leaving to live in a flat with Robert, well, not exactly WITH Robert, but he will join her soon. Rita is very upset, as she does not want to see Jenny get hurt. Jenny tells Rita how much she loves Robert and how they want to share their lives together and show their love. After a hug, Jenny leaves and Rita watches her though the blinds as Robert and Jenny hug and Jenny looks back at Rita with tears in her eyes. The pair drives off.
Back at the Rovers, Alec tells Bet they are on their way just as soon as financing is arranged. Bet wants to know how much and when Alec tells her £120,000, she looks shocked and gulps back her drink.
Ruby: ANN RYE
Writer: BARRY HILL Director: BRIAN MILLS
Wednesday (3195, Monday 4 March 1991)
After a night on the settee, Curly's back is sore and he complains to the Duckworths about it. Vera makes an appeal on Joss' behalf, he has just lost "the woman he loves", after all. Curly threatens to withhold part of his rent as long as Joss is in his bed, but to his surprise, Vera is quite amenable to that idea. Once Vera goes up to bring Joss his tea, Curly turns to Jack in frustration. Looks like they are shackled with Mr. Shackleton, they agree. Notwithstanding this, Jack is anxious to point out that if Curly withholds part of his rent, it may undermine his argument as a paying guest. But Curly doesn't care - he reckons even if he is thrown out on the pavement it can't be any worse than sleeping on the settee. Vera returns to tell Jack that her dad is having a lie in and as she's off to work now with Curly, it'll fall to him to make breakfast for Joss.
In the Kabin, Percy is paying Mavis for his papers, while moaning about his lost waistcoat. As she waits on him, Mavis is also filling Deirdre in on the situation with Jenny. She tells her that Rita has gone away for a few days to brood. Deirdre agrees that there isn't anything more Rita could have done and Mavis jumps in with both feet, saying she blames Robert entirely. After all, what sort of man would leave his wife and family for some young strumpet? She catches herself and apologises to Deirdre. That would have been the end of it but Percy jumps in with his tuppence. "The man ought to be horsewhipped, no matter how bad his wife is. Til death us do part and all that..." Deirdre thanks him for his support is annoyed when he continues: "Mind you, what sort of woman loses her husband to a young floozy?" "What sort of man loses his waistcoat in broad daylight?", she snaps back, before walking out of the shop in a huff.
Bet is looking cheerful as she joins Alec in the parlour where he is clanging away on his adding machine. He tells her he is "massaging the figures" in preparation for his trip to the bank. When she asks if he is confident about getting the loan and he tells her he is "supremely" confident. She points out that £60,000 is an awful lot of money but he tells her it is the "cost of doing business". He goes on to tell her in effect, just to concentrate on ëfronting' in their new venture, to leave the money to the men. (Famous last words!)
Back at the Duckworths' Joss, having had his lie in, is sitting comfortably in Jack's chair while Jack dutifully prepares his breakfast. To Jack's annoyance, Joss insists on instructing him on the finer points of preparing the meal. "Bacon should be grilled, not fried." And, according to Joss, "You should never make scrambled eggs with less than half a dozen eggs!" "Half a dozen!" exclaims the skeptic, Jack. Joss knowingly nods and goes on to give Jack his recipe for scrambled eggs: salt and pepper, a dash of Worcestershire and a touch of tarragon. He learned that when he was employed by the George V Hotel in Paris. "Their motto was: ëA meal is an homage to the body.' An homage, Jack!" he enthuses.
Angie bounces in to the charity shop where Emily is holding the fort. Emily asks if she is there to give her a hand but Angie explains she only popped in to return Mr. Sugden's bowling club card. When Emily asks where she found it, Angie says it was in the pocket of his waistcoat, the one she bought here on Friday. Relief floods Emily's face. "So *you* have the waistcoat!" Angie answers proudly that she has spent the whole weekend re-styling it and throws open her jacket to show Emily the result. As Emily sees the big pink flower stitched across the front of the vest, a look of horror crosses her face. She is, no doubt, anticipating what Percy's reaction would be!
In the shipping room of Bettabuys, a loading truck drives by, revealing the form of Curly, stretched out on a spread of stacked canned goods. Reg bounds in and seeing his juniour manager apparently sleeping, sharply calls to him. Curly rouses himself and starts to explain that his back is bothering him. Reg automatically assumes the reason is evenings spent with Raquel, Miss Bettabuys. Curly corrects that impression, he has a bad back from sleeping on the settee. Heedless of Curly's explanation, Reg instructs him not to allow affairs of the heart to interfere with his work, there are lots of "keen young men just itching" to have his job!
Angie comes into the Rovers and seeing Mavis, goes over to her to give her Jenny's mail, but Mavis tells her she doesn't know how to reach Jenny, she didn't leave a forwarding address. Steph happens to be at the bar and spotting her, Angie makes her way over to give her the letters. On her way, she nearly collides with Jack who is delivering a tray of hot pots to some of the other patrons. He comments that she was almost wearing the hot pot and then notices her newly refurbished waistcoat. She proudly tells him it's one of Percy's castoffs before moving on to talk to Steph. As Angie learns from talking to Steph, Jenny's packed in her job and seemingly disappeared.
Joss comes in to the Rovers and asks Jack to spot him a beer until his pension comes in. Jack refuses saying that credit is against the management's policy. Joss is hurt at Jack's refusal and starts telling him that he never really liked him from the time he married "R Vera" but he didn't have him down as a "jobsworth"(?). Relenting, Jack agrees to stand him a pint and Joss responds with gracious thanks for his son-in-law, now calling him a gentleman. Jack assures him that he will collect for it later from Vera.
In a corner behind the bar, Bet is giving Betty some reassurance about the new deal she and Alec will be embarking on with Phil. As she explains, they are not leaving the Rovers but Alec has always dreamt of his own club. Betty wonders if the new club will present competition for the Rovers but Bet tells her the punters will keep coming in here because the beer is cheap and they will go to the new club because it will have a late license. They won't be bringing someone in to oversee the running of the Rovers because there's no need with the new club only across the road. In fact, there will be very few changes, except they won't be seeing as much of Alec. Betty thinks she can live with that easily enough, so Bet comments that'll be everybody happy then. When Betty questions their chances of getting the £60,000 loan, Bet tells her that Alec went out "like ghostbusters" this morning and she reckons by now he'll have that bank manager twisted round his little finger.
At this moment, Alec is waiting restlessly to see the bank manager. A professional looking young woman comes to fetch him and he makes no effort to hide his annoyance over being made to wait and the fact that she addresses him as "Mr. Giljoy" by mistake. She ushers him down a long corridor and as they enter an office, she offers him coffee. He sharply tells her he'll have it white with sugar while handing her his coat to hang it up for him. As he takes his seat, she further annoys him by asking what she can help him with. He impatiently tells her he is waiting to see Mr. Lawrence, the manager. She matter-of-factly informs him that Mr. Lawrence has been transferred and she is Mrs. Grice, the *new* bank manager. Alec's jaw drops as he realises that he will have to deal with a woman, and one he has not made a very good first impression on, at that!
We next see Mrs. Grice looking over Alec's "massaged" accounts as he leans across her desk eagerly trying to impress her by telling her some of the names he once "almost" handled: Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones, ëPet' Clark. She coolly asks, "But those people won't be coming to your Alphibet Club, will they?" "Well, not in the early stages perhaps", he tells her, "not until we've expanded..." She cuts him short to "sum up" the situation. With a meek wave of his hand, Alec invites her to proceed. She does so thus:
"You are proposing that the bank provide you with a loan for £60,000, with which you intend to purchase and renovate a semi-decrepit building," - Alec interrupts here to say that he wouldn't say "decrepit" - (she continues) "with the intention of turning it into the Caesar's Palace of Wetherfield, in partnership with an acquaintance of whose finances you have no detailed knowledge, and all at a time of severe recession."
Alec thinks she has put an unduly negative slant on things. He has always been an advocate of the Keynesian position, that one buys oneself out of trouble, he tells her smilingly. But Mrs. Grice believes that kind of thinking is what caused the recession to begin with! Alec has had just about all he is going to take from this *woman* by now. He curtly informs her that he has been a long standing customer and if she'll look over his records, she will see that his transactions have always been very sound. She readily agrees but expresses her reservation that he is nearing retirement age...
When Percy comes in to the Rovers, Jack takes some glee in telling him that Angie has his waistcoat. Percy scowls in response to the news and with a look of determination on his face, heads out again. Bet is on the service side of the bar telling Deirdre about their shared venture with Phil. Deirdre apparently knows nothing about it and is moved to remark that Phil would make a good secret agent. In fact, he might be one for all she knows! Alec, just back from the bank, now comes through the door and blusters his way through Bet and Deirdre to get through to the back. He has a face like thunder and Bet excuses herself to follow him as she knows something is wrong.
Betty listens with sympathy as Jack complains about his newfound father-in-law. She suggests that Vera's mother's dying wish (that Vera look after Joss) was merely a request and they can't be held to it. "Easy for you to say", Jack counters, "Vera treats it like the eleventh commandment!" Betty points out the fifth commandment is to "honour thy father and mother" but Jack protests that the commandments don't tell you to "honour your father-in-law"! No, Betty concedes, but at least Vera now has the chance to make up for lost time with a father she never knew. Aye, Jack agrees, but while they get reacquainted, he is supporting Joss. As Betty goes back to her work, she leaves Jack to ponder the situation from another angle: "Who is it that pops off leaving a small fortune under the floorboards - it's them as spends nowt!"
Bet is in the back with Alec now, trying to find out what happened to cause him such upset. "She practically accused me of being geriatric!" he sputters. "The woman is power mad!" Bet takes that to mean there will be no loan. But Alec tells her that he didn't give up without a fight - he did his homework! "I showed her a few figures, explained it all in one-syllable words." Apparently, Mrs. Grice finally agreed to £30,000, saying it was not in his "best interest" to go any higher. Bet interjects to ask, "Meaning she knew she'd recover that much from the building if we should go bust?" Alec confirms this with a nod and Bet assumes the deal is now off. Alec surprises her by saying that they can still go ahead. She wonders how, if they can only borrow half of the required amount to invest? He tells her there is a way they can get the other half, "just like that".
Angie approaches her house but stops short when she sees Percy peering into her front window. With a look of amusement, she asks if he looking for her. Startled at the interruption, he turns to face her. "Yes, I believe you are in erroneous possession of an article of my attire." He asks her to hand it over and no more will be said on the matter. Angie's position is that she bought the waistcoat in good faith and it now belongs to her. When Percy insists on its return, she grudgingly removes her jacket and peels off the vest to hand it to him. He thanks her, then turns the garment over and for the first time sees the big pink flower she has sewn to the front of it. "What's this?!" he demands. "It's your waistcoat - wear it in good health!" she calls over her shoulder before trotting on her way again.
In the parlour of the Rovers again, Bet is shouting at Alec, "No way! This place is our safety net!" She is shocked that he is willing to sell the pub in order to get the money. She feels as much a part of the place as its fittings and fixtures. He tells her she is just being sentimental and she counters that he can call it what he wants but those are her feelings. Alec then quotes Julius Caesar, "There comes a tide in the affairs of men which taken in the flood leads to fortune." Bet is not impressed, remarking only, "Yeah, and look what happened to him - a knife in the back!" As they continue to argue, Alec points that their scheme is a sound one, that they have built up the Rovers and the brewery would buy it off them in a flash. Bet contends that whoever takes it over would run it down again pretty quickly and anyway, what about their staff? Alec rejects this consideration. "There are no free rides", he tells her, "who ever helped you?" She answers without hesitation, "Plenty of people and half of them come in here!" He is forceful now, no one ever helped him, he fought tooth and nail to get where he is! She points out that he would be starting all that over again and asks why they should even take the risk.
Alec takes another approach now, going all sentimental. He's never taken the one risk that would see his dream fulfilled. This may be his last chance at something he can really be proud of. And as for Bet, she is wasted in a back street pub. She is "a celebrity" - "a jewel set in paste"! But, he really does only want her happiness, so if this is what she really wants, that is what he wants, too. (Awww... except that it all amounts to emotional blackmail, doesn't it!)
At the Barnes household, Des is looking for his overalls but Steph is looking for an evening out. He wants to work on his boat and is upset when she tells him that his overalls are being washed. She suggests they go out and see a sexy movie but he doesn't want to. When she complains that they never do anything together, he turns the tables on her. She never had any time for him when she was doing her promotions and now that she is no longer working nights, she expects him to jump into her lap "like a poodle". He then invites her to come and work on his boat with him if she craves "togetherness" so much. She shouts back that she has no intention of going out in the freezing cold, getting splinters in her bum and breaking her nails to work on his stupid boat!
At the Duckworths' Curly is telling Jack that it's now or never, they have to confront Vera. He even says he will do all the talking, that all Jack has to do is back him up. When Vera comes in, Curly tells her that sleeping on the settee is jeopardizing his health and career. He goes on to say that he and Jack are in complete agreement, Joss has to go. Vera looks at Jack, but he seems to have softened a little with reference to old Joss. He now thinks that children should look after their elderly parents. (Hmmm... what brought this on?) Calling him a "turncoat", Curly declares that he is going to force the issue by telling Joss himself. Vera stops him, her father is still grieving, she says, and she won't have him upsetting him. "Oh so you'd rather upset a model lodger!" he rants. Before he storms out, he tells Vera she will have to choose between Joss and him! Joss wanders in from upstairs just after Curly leaves and surmises that the dispute was about him. Vera tells him not to worry about Curly, he's just tired. (Um... that's kind of the point, Vera!)
In the Rovers, Bet is preoccupied with what she and Alec so heatedly discussed earlier, the possibility of giving up the Rovers. Percy notices that she seems miles away and asks if she is alright. "You're right Percy", she tells him, "I was miles away... Miles and miles." Angie joins Percy at the bar and cheerily greets him with, "Hello Percy!" He snaps that it's "Mr. Sugden" to her! From a nearby booth, Emily, who is seated with Steph, moans that she'll never hear the end of "that flipping waistcoat". As Angie joins them, she remarks that it's like a morgue in the pub tonight. Emily notices that Angie's certainly chipper and Steph pipes up, why shouldn't she be - she's a free agent, she doesn't have the ancient mariner banging away in her back yard! Angie thinks Steph will be glad of the boat, come summer. But Steph says why should she be? She expresses her lack of faith in Des' ability to even make it float and says she has no intention of playing second fiddle to a pile of rotting junk.
Jack turns up for his evening shift a bit late with the excuse that they're having "domestic troubles" but Bet shoos him away, she doesn't want to hear it right now. Angie spots Curly looking glum and goes over to ask if he is having "woman" troubles. He starts to tell her about the problem at the Duckworths' just as Vera and her father enter the pub. Joss seems to be leaning heavily on his daughter, prompting Alec to inquire of Jack whether he is an invalid. "When it suits him!" comes the reply. Angie tells Curly that now that Jenny is gone, she has the house to herself and he can come and share with her if he likes.
Vera sees Curly with Angie and in an effort to make up for the inconvenience of Joss taking over his bed, offers to buy him a drink. Elated at Angie's offer, he tells Vera that he would like to buy her one instead. In fact, he'll buy one for her father and for Jack too. When Bet comments that he's really "pushing the boat out" tonight, Steph loudly objects from over in her booth.
Des comes into the house from working on his boat and is surprised to find that Steph is not in. He sees however, that she has left him a note of sorts... On the window of the foyer door, in red lipstick: "Remember Captain Bligh". With a sigh of annoyance, he mutters under his breath, "stupid!"
At closing time, Bet goes into the back room to find Alec sulking. She offers to make him a nightcap. She seems lighter now, more carefree. She chirps to him about what a good bunch they have at the Rovers. They can be dead boring one minute but the next, they come alive - "zing!" He nods but it's clear he doesn't feel very enthusiastic. As she hands him his drink, she raises her glass to the Rovers. He looks at her and hollowly echoes the toast, "To the Rovers." She continues with, "God Bless -- and goodbye." To Alec's astonishment and delight, she has come around to his way of thinking. They embrace warmly and roll credits...
Joss Shackleton HAROLD GOODWIN Mrs. Grice JUDY
HOLT
Writer: HARRY DUFFIN
Thursday (3196, Wednesday 6 March 1991)
Curly moves out. Alec gets fiddled.
Just before they are ready to go to work, Curly slips out "to the shop", only he's actually gone next door to fix a time when he can move in to Number 7. Anytime is good for her so they establish that this evening will suit. Curly is concerned that Rita will mind, him not being female but Angie is unconcerned. Why should Rita mind if she doesn't? They also establish one ground rule for starters. Angie isn't the sort of woman who will be doing all the cooking and cleaning for a man but Curly is ok with that. He doesn't see women like that, although he'd quite like to but hasn't any choice given his experiences!
All this is, of course, unbeknownst to Jack and Vera who are still at the table discussing sleeping arrangements. Jack doesn't think it's fair to take rent from Curly and make him kip on the sofa. Don't know how Curly puts up with it, giving up his own room to an old geezer that Vera picked up at her mother's funeral! Vera objects loudly (well, could she do anything else?) it's not an old geezer, it's her dad! And anyway, her plan is to buy a new camp bed for Curly to sleep on when Joss stays over. Jack is not happy in the first place, Joss has his own home and we all know Jack is highly suspicious of Joss (as am i, seeing as Vera has accepted this man as her father without so much as a by your leave or blood test!).
Des admires a boat in a magazine. Steph, getting ready for work, indicates her displeasure at the scrap heap in the back yard, a mistake only worth the firewood. Steph thinks he should admit the mistake and cut his losses lest he become a joke, spending the rest of his life, potting about, fixing up his folly and she won't be waiting in the wings, she warns him!
The MacDonald twins are trying to make a case for a rise in their allowance of 5 a week (which seems plenty to me for a teenager of their age!). Steve is doing all the talking but gets nowhere further than a promise from Jim to think about it since Liz already tops up their pocket change, after all, being the soft touch that she is. But later that day, Liz shows Jim something she's found hidden under the carpet under Andy's bed. A box filled with mostly coins, a few paper bills and it adds up to about 80! She's afraid he's come by it by some illegal means, having nothing of great value to sell! Jim promises to have a word with Andy later but they agree to keep quiet that they've found the money.
Alec is getting more and more frustrated by the phone call, each one trying to track down Phil Jennings. Scarlet Flaming Pimpernell! Every place he's called, he is told Phil just left! He needs to talk to Phil to get an update on their business dealings over the new club. He warns Bet not to let the staff know about the impending business but i'm confused here because Bet and Betty then discuss behind closed doors, Alec's financial dealings trying to get the financing for the club. However it must have to do with the bit about selling the pub, which Betty does not know about because when Betty gets too close to asking about it, wondering how they will manage to run both the Rovers and the new place at the same time, Bet changes the subject to business at hand of pouring cups of tea.
Over at Bettabuys, Vera is telling Curly about her plans to buy a brand new camp bed for him when Joss sleeps over so Curly decides to tell Vera his news about moving into Number 7. She's horrified that he's moving in with Angie, who's going to make his meals because you only have to look at Angie to see she's never peeled a spud in her life! Raquel overhears and is not best pleased to find out Curly is moving in with some female student who dresses, as Vera describes, like something out of a Dracula film!
Back at the pub, Alec is still out of sorts because he's had no word from Phil yet and Betty and Jack are starting to speculate whether the pub will be sold. They con Liz into asking Bet but Bet avoids a direct answer and gives the impression nothing could be further than the truth. But she warns Alec that the staff are buzzing with rumours that she didn't start so Alec promises to have a word after closing. When he does appear to the curious three, with Bet smiling and nodding beside him insincerely, he laughs and smarmily oozes charm and tells a smiling Liz and a very dour looking Jack and Betty that the Rovers is their home, they're happy here and he foresees no moving on but they will be informed of any change in plans, after all the staff IS the pub and the pub IS the staff. Forget the rumours, there's no reason to be unsettled. He guarantees their future at the pub is as safe as his and Bet's. AFter they leave, Liz is relieved but Jack and Betty scoff. Do you not believe him then? Liz asks, confused. Betty notes that Alec was smiling and Jack adds that you never believe a word Alec says when he's smiling. But he wouldn't lie to us, would he? Liz tries once more. Betty shakes her head and says, you haven't been here long!
Raquel is busy quizzing Curly about Angie as they sit in the staff room on a break. Curly describes Angie as small, plain, not much make up, takes no notice of her clothes, just a typical student with her nose in a book all the time. There's no reason a man and a woman can't share a house and just be friends but Raquel is not keen and doesn't really believe it. Curly invites her to come round and see for herself once he's settled in.
Steph returns from work to find Des stretched out on the sofa, exhausted and sore from an afternoon of paint scraping. After establishing that he intends to pursue his hobby, she informs him she's going on a solo ski trip with her time off! Des doesn't believe she'll actually go alone and figures she's trying to teach him a lesson but he doesn't back down either.
Alec is still searching for Phil and tries Deirdre but he hasn't been there and isn't expected. Alec repeats his wish that Deirdre keep their business confidential and leaves a message for Phil to get in touch.
Jim and Liz must be going out as he is sorting out a tie over a white shirt. He tries to find out from Andy if he's been saving money or selling things and Andy is only mystified at this grilling about his financial situation. But before Jim can spill the beans about finding the money under Andy's bed, Liz interrupts, calling them to tea.
Vera sadly tells Jack that Curly's moving out but maybe it's for the best. Jack is unhappy and follows Curly and his suitcases to Number 7, trying everything he can think of to dissuade Curly from this move. Raquel shows up too, to have a look at the competition and unhappily surprise to find Angie, hair in a turban, makeup and jewelry on, wearing a glamorous dress with very little back to it! She's getting ready for a party apparently and Raquel sizes up the competition. Jack changes his tune, confiding in Curly that he sees Curly has a much better set up on his own but advises the young man to pace himself. Two women can be an awful drain on a man's energies!
Alec moans about the no class, backstreet boring pub with no glamour or excitement other than the lovely Bet herself. Bet wonders about the risks involved but alec dismisses them as no more of a risk than crossing the road or eating a meat pie. Phil finally turns up and is sequestered in the back with Alec post haste. Alec, however, is gobsmacked when Phil informs him he's raised the money with his own investors but will send plenty of business Alec's way to book acts for "his" club!!! Phil leaves quickly and Alec bitterly informs Bet that Phil stole his idea and then dumped them!! Bet looks shocked and angry (but i wonder if not a bit relieved down deep!)
Writer - PETER WHALLEY Director - JULIAN JARROLD
Friday (3197, Friday 8 March 1991)
It's breakfast time and Angie offers Curly a yogurt, but Curly would prefer a fried breakfast, just like the one Vera is probably making next door. Angie offers to cook it but Curly says he could cook it himself, if he really wanted it. The conversation meanders around to Raquel and Angie wants to know who would do the cooking if Raquel and Curly were married. Curly says it's irrelevant, because they are only having fun. Angie tells him to be discreet if he brings Raquel around, at least until Rita knows he is living there. She reminds him also that there is only a thin wall between their bedrooms.
Alec and Bet are enjoying their soft-boiled eggs while discussing the club - or rather, the non-club, as Phil has cut them out. Alec is mad at himself for falling for Phil's swindle, but Bet tells him they are better off out of it and they've lost nowt. (But Alec has lost face and will not forgive Phil, especially when he has to see him across the road every day, after the club opens).
The Barnes' are off to work and as they leave, Des asks Mavis, who is washing the outside windows at the Kabin, what she thinks of separate holidays for married couples. Mavis can't get a word in between Des and Steph bickering at each other. Steph has booked a holiday for one and Des is not pleased.
Liz and Jim are clearing up after breakfast and Jim wants Liz to leave it to him, while she goes to have a word with Andy about the £80 they found. Before they can decide who will talk to Andy, he is off to school. Steve is still upstairs and Jim wants to see if he knows anything about it, but Liz doesn't want to involve Steve. Jim hollers for Steve who comes in, and Jim asks him to tell Andy to drop by the bike shop after school for a word. Steve heads off to school, like a good wee lad.
At the Kabin, Mavis gossips to Emily abut the Barnes' argument that morning in the street. Emily kindly returns the gossip favour by telling Mavis that Curly has moved in with Angie, and insinuates, that although it may not be "together" they may well end up that way in that very small house.
At the Rovers, Jack and Liz are gossiping about the future of the pub and what Nigel Ridley is likely to do to it, when Alec comes in and tears a strip off them. Alec has overheard Jack and tells him he is going no where.
At Bettabuys, Vera is telling Curly that Joss will be gone by the weekend and Curly can have his room back, but Curly tells Vera that he is not coming back as he is happy with Angie. Vera misunderstands and thinks he is not just living in the same house with Angie but that he is "living" with Angie! Curly goes off to speak to Raquel, leaving Vera wondering about him and his women. Curly compliments Raquel and then the flirting and innuendoes start flying - by the end of it, Curly has an "I can hardly wait" look on his face.
At the Rovers, Alec tells Jack that although Phil is not barred, Jack is to serve everyone else first, then go around everyone else again, and if Phil is still waiting for a drink, that Jack should then disappear down the cellar. Percy happens to mention to Alec that the council should squash the club, but that's not likely as Phil has a girlfriend (Deirdre) on the council.
Deirdre is shopping at the Mini Market when Alf mentions that her boyfriend is moving in in a big way. Alec comes in and rants at the pair of them - two council types all wrapped up with Phil Jennings. He calls Deirdre a gangster's moll and threatens that one day Phil Jennings will get what's coming to him and then Alec walks out, leaving a perplexed Alf and Deirdre behind.
Back at the Rovers, Alec is shoveling in his food, while Bet tells him to slow down, but he is all gassed up over Phil, not only did he stitch Alec up, but he has the council in his pocket. Bet is concerned about Alec's blood pressure (but all the while she is smoking like a chimney, even while he's eating!) Bet tells him that he is really mad at himself for being taken in, and Alec thanks her for the insight. He is convinced that, with Deirdre on the council, the club will be a go, but Bet tries to tell him that Deirdre is not Phil's puppet and will think for herself. Alec stomps into the kitchen, to eat in peace.
At Bettabuys, Raquel runs to find Vera and excitedly tells her about the Miss Bettabuys contest final that she will be going to - all expenses paid!
Andy drops in to see his dad at the bike shop. Jim makes idle conversation and then gets down to it, with a long tale about when he was a lad and found a purse and kept the money and felt forever guilty about it. Andy sees right through the story and says he will tell his dad, but he doesn't know why he didn't just ask.
At the Kabin, Mavis questions Des about the separate holidays while Jack pipes in that he would love Vera to go on holiday alone. Des tells Mavis that it keeps the marriage fresh, but then also explains his reverse psychology of encouraging Steph to go - the more he encourages her, the less likely she is to go and they save money, but the whole thing leaves Mavis quite confused.
At the McDonald's, Andy tells Steve that their parents have found the money and that Jim and Liz thought they had grand larceny on their hands. Andy told Jim the truth. Liz and Jim are discussing it and Jim is quite pleased that Andy has been taking bets from the kids at school but Liz does not see it the same way and tells Jim that if he doesn't stop it, she will!
Bet is picking up comfort food at the Mini Market and Alf tells her about Alec's earlier outburst. They put 2 and 2 together and realize that Alec is hoping that Alf will stand for council - but Alf tells Bet that Audrey has put her foot down as she thinks that running for council would give Alf a coronary. Bet makes a comment about Audrey being a rich widow - some sad foreshadowing that was not quite right, as we will see in several years.
Des arrives home with a cheery "Weekend starts here" and Steph comes down all geared out in a lime green ski outfit, for which she says she got change out of £500. She thinks she might score in this outfit but Des disagrees, it would take too long to get out of!
Over at the Rovers, Bet fills Alec in on Alf not running for council because of Audrey's concern about his health. Curly and Angie are at a table and Angie comments to Curly that he looks boring and responsible, which Curly admits he is. Angie offers to spiff him up, but Curly says no thanks. Raquel comes in and Angie goes to get the round (with Curly's money). Raquel seems a little put out about finding Curly and Angie together but Curly reassures her. Raquel then tells Curly that she is worried about being on her own for the Miss Bettabuys contest in Buxton, all alone in her hotel room at nightÖ.and then comes the inevitable invitation - and Curly would like to go with her, rather a lot!
Alf comes in and Alec buys him a drink in way of an apology for blowing up at him earlier. Alec's wee mind is going a mile a minute on how he will convince Alf to run for council.
Writer: STEPHEN MALLATRATT Director: JULIAN JARROLD
Monday (3198, Monday 11 March 1991)
Objections and Reverse Psychology are the orders of the day.
We open this morning with a repeat shot of that milk truck rattling by. At the Barnes' abode, Des is horsing around and teasing Stephanie about her trip alone. He'd like to come but since she refuses to let him so he, instead, encourages her. She suspects him of using reverse psychology on her. No indeed, Des says not. (oh sure!) But she's going on her own, leaving him to play with his boat.
Bet and Betty set up for a new day, chatting about Phil's back stabbing of Alec and Alec's attempts to win back council support by convincing Alf to stand for council. Betty remembers Alf as a rather ineffective councillor. Alec's plan is to get Alf on his side but if Alf gets in you just never know, do you? At this same time, Alec is in the shop, laying on the flattery with a trowel but alf is resisting. He's had his day, he insists, but Alec won't let it go even when Alf suggests that Alec himself run. Audrey has overheard it all from the back and puts her foot down. Not only is Alf's health at stake but she doesn't want to have to run the shop on her own while Alf canvasses! Alf assures Audrey he has no intention of running for council, trying to put her mind at rest.
Andy refuses to go to school until his mother gives him back his betting book which she has confiscated. But she refuses on the grounds that it's illegal and is not having her son get into any further trouble. Andy objects, he's taken £100 worth of bets that he's responsible for! No way is he getting it back so the boys are sent off to school. Jim objects to Liz's tactics for a different reason. He doesn't see much wrong with it, Andy's showing initiative and will stand to make a few bob. Liz chastises him for not supporting her and is he prepared to shell out a couple of hundred if the bets don't come Andy's way and he has to pay it all out? Later Jim is horrified when Liz threatens to go to the school and tell the headmistress about the whole scam! He'll get expelled! Oh, NOW you see something wrong! Jim is only thinking of his son's future. so is Liz, so what if he does make a few quid? what then? Where will he end up, getting in deeper and deeper? She tells Jim he is going to have to deal with it.
Back at the Rovers, Alec has returned and is in a foul mood. Bet hands him the pot to make more tea as he rants about Alf being ruled by his wife. There's a bit more natter about it all then Alec announces that *he's* going to run for council instead! When the tough get going, he starts.... The tough make tea, finishes Bet. Alec looks at the teapot, put well in his place by his wife!
At Bettabuys, Curly is demonstrating an elegant form, bending and stretching as a fetching way for Raquel to stack shelves in preparation for the Regional Miss Bettabuys context in Buxton. Raquel seems rather unimpressed but a gleam is put back in her eye as Curly makes that fatal, life altering statement that contest winners can go on to bigger and better things, like modeling and TV hostessing! (Ah, so THAT'S where the model idea was encouraged!). Raquel says she has always wanted to be famous and is pleased that Curly has voiced her secret dreams! She is so encouraged that she practices her form all morning with gusto. so much so that it attracts the eye of Reg Holdsworth who compliments her style with much admiration. She tells him of her pleasure over Curly's ministrations, showing him her hand, trembling with excitement and enthusiasm. Reg clasps her hands but is interrupted by Curly who sends Reg on his way with a glare and a warning to Raquel about Roving Hands Holdsworth!
A busy dinnertime at the pub. Des has had a busy and thirsty morning shopping but we don't know what for yet. Jim buys Des a pint in exchange for a favour. We don't know what that is yet either but we can guess, can't we? Audrey is loudly complaining to Betty about Alec trying to manipulate Alf and Deirdre and Phil walk in. Bet begins to voice her displeasure but Alec smoothly tells Phil he is always welcome in the Rovers. Business is business and bygones are bygones. Phil and Deirdre take their raised eyebrows and drinks to a booth. Alec answers Bet's equally raised eyebrows, telling her there is more than one way to skin a rat. He'll stand for council and put the pair of them in their place!
Phil later returns to Deirdre's, still wondering what Alec's game is after all, he was quite upset after the deal fell through. But Deirdre doesn't want to know about the details, leading to questions from Phil about her attitude that seems to imply that he really was doing crooked deals. She just wants to stay out of it, she likes living on the Street and likes her job as councilor, is good at it and doesn't want any backlash upsetting her little world. Phil seems genuine when he tells her that he respects her decisions. He can get enough bent councilors if he wanted to and though he may have immoral designs on her, they aren't about business. She's delighted at the thought of immoral designs and asks for a sample with about as much of a leer as Deirdre is capable of.
Bet and Alec discuss his plans to run for the council. Bet explains that she is sure he could do a good job of whatever he puts his mind to but explains that it would be difficult to be a publican and a politician at the same time. Publicans must be neutral. You mean faceless, he pouts. Bet gently reminds him that she is anything but faceless, but she *is* impartial, never taking sides against her customers. And think on, if he was a councilor, half his punters would be angry with him and the other half would always be ear holing him about holes in the pavement, grants and waste disposal and bankruptcy would soon follow. Aye, 'appen you're right, Alec agrees, seeing reason. But there has to be a way of getting back at Phil Jennings, of nobbling his filly! Bet suggests he be a little more subtle.
So Alec tries a different tactic. Reverse psychology which seems to be the theme of today's show. He finds Alf shifting crates in back of the shop and pops his head over the gate. He wants to apologize for nagging Alf earlier, only he was just desperate after that disaster with Phil Jennings. What was he thinking after Alf's heart condition and public humiliation after the last election loss to Deirdre Barlow. Hey now! Alf's back gets all up over that, just as Alec planned. Alec lays it on thick, pointing out Deirdre's popularity would mean certain failure and pulls the age over youth knife out of the bag. Alf hotly defends the wisdom and experience that comes along with gray hair. Alec twists one last knife in, speculating that it would take a very special person to defeat the popular Mrs. Barlow and leaves Alf with another apology. Alf's face is a treat, with his heels firmly dug in, evidenced by his subsequent ravings in the shop. He defends his own reputation in politics and his popularity. Audrey finally manages to get a word in, pointing out to Alf how he has been further manipulated by Alec. First he tries to flatter Alf and now he tries to wind him up to running. Alf looks sheepish when he realizes he's been sucked in yet again.
Des has had a look at Andy's book and tells Jim it's find, Andy can't lose. Jim is relieved but reckons Liz won't be any happier. He later reveals what he's done and over Andy's objections, tells Andy that Des approved his odds and gives Andy back the book over Liz's strenuous objections. But Jim figures there is no point in getting Andy expelled and they should let it run it's course.
Des has bought a full suit of rain gear including a bright yellow sou'wester and is at the table tucking into a bowl of Irish stew when Steph comes home. She thinks he's a joke and then is ticked off because there is no stew for her. Des reminds her he had to start getting used to cooking for himself as she's going soon. He offers her a taste but she tricks him and dumps it all over his new gear!
Curly leads Raquel into the stockroom and makes plans to help her work on her deportment tonight, help her refine it a little. She's really looking forward to the contest now and is very grateful for all Curly's help. She even offers to show him how grateful she is in the hotel in Buxton! We hear his name being paged to the office. Curly moves closer to Raquel and she coyly whispers, He's wanted. He tells her (as smoothly as Curly can be lol) that he wants her very much too and shuts the door on the announcement. They smile and gaze into each other's eyes.
Des and Steph burst into the pub. Des orders first and they row about who was there first (continuing the row started at home no doubt). Bet serves Des and Liz serves Steph, they both order different drinks and different sandwiches, just to be contrary. Bet and Liz roll their eyes over married life. Alf and Audrey come in soon after and with Audrey urging him on , "Tell him Alfeh!", Alf puts Alec in his place for twisting him around.
Reg has Curly in his office, telling him how pleased he is with Raquel's progress at Curly's ministrations. However, he thinks the upcoming contest is going to be very important for the store's recently sullied image and it's important to project the right stuff in front of all the top executives that are bound to be there. Curly's face reflects the dread he feels, he can see where this is going and strongly objects. Right, Reg plans to go to Buxton with Raquel instead of him! Curly doesn't trust Reg in a hotel with his girlfriend and forbids his boss to go! No use, Reg pulls rank on Curly!
Writer - HARRY DUFFIN Director - JOHN DARNELL
Tuesday (3199, Wednesday 13 March 1991)
In the corner shop, Audrey and Alf are arguing about the council. Alf reminds Audrey about the dinner tomorrow night with the Weatherfield Traders. Audrey goes to put the kettle on, (mostly to hush Alf) when Martin comes in. Alf asks Martin what men can do so that their women don't think they are a total failure - Martin tells him there is nothing - that way they are never disappointed!
Steph is cleaning up the kitchen, when Des brings a load of laundry down, but Steph already has her clothes for her trip in the washer. Des asks her to chuck his in when she gets home, but she tells him that she has better things to do with her afternoon off. She hands Des the dishcloth to finish up his dishes - she's not doing them either!
Curly comes out of the house with a long face and Martin teases him about being run ragged with Miss Bettabuys at work and Angie waiting for him at home, but Curly is not amused, and growls at Martin as he drives off.
At the McDonalds, Liz wants to know when the boys will be home that night, but Jim jumps to their defense saying that Liz should give them credit for their initiative. Liz thinks she is on her own for this one and Jim agrees - he is right proud of his lads. Before the boys leave, Andy tells him mum that it will all be over in a couple of months, but Liz is not appeased. As Jim leaves he tells Liz he wouldn't let them carry on with it if he thought there was anything seriously wrong with what they are doing.
Alec is having a cuppa and a smoke in the living room when Bet comes in and tells him that was Stella Rigby on the phone, wanting to know if they had seen Paul, as he didn't come home the night before. Alec changes the subject to his latest obsession - he is convinced that Alf is wavering about running for council. Bet tells him (again!) that Audrey will never allow it.
Angie bounces into the café and Martin tells her about Curly's mood that morning. Angie tells Martin that it is something to do with work. Alma has a break with Audrey and asks what she is going to wear to the Traders do tomorrow. Audrey tells her she would much rather be tucked up in bed, reading, even the phone directory!
At Bettabuys, Raquel tells Curly that she is not going to Buxton with Reg, but Curly warns her that she can't pull out of the competition. Curly is worried that Reg will think he put Raquel up to it and then his career would be in tatters. Raquel tells him that she is not going with ìHands-on Holdsworthî and if she can't go with Curly, she is not going with anyone. Curly tells her it has not yet come to that and to leave it with him.
Steph is at the Rovers, having some lunch to start her half-day off. Jim has come in for a quiet chat with Liz, but all Liz does is give him an icy blast from the North Pole. Liz says they have not a lot to talk about - Jim made that clear this morning. Steph joins Deirdre and the conversation winds around to Steph's holiday on her own and how she and Des are not seeing eye to eye on anything much right now. Audrey comes in for a large G&T and Alec scurries up and buys her the drink. Audrey realizes right away that his generosity has an ulterior motive and it is about Alf standing for council. Alec tries and tries and tries and then appeals to Audrey's vanity but it just doesn't work. Audrey tells him he would be doing everyone a favour by not mentioning it again.
Back at Bettabuys, Curly is trying to convince Reg that Raquel shouldn't go to Buxton, but Reg disagrees. And then Curly plays his trump card - he threatens Reg with the book of raffle tickets - with only one missing - the one that Rita won with! And, if Reg doesn't allow Curly to go to Buxton with Raquel, Curly may have to take the book of raffle tickets to head office!
The Barnes' kitchen looks even more of a disaster than earlier as Steph putters around the house. Deirdre drops in, offering Steph the loan of her travel iron. Steph asks Deirdre to excuse the mess, as Des is very messy and thinks things put themselves away. There are raised eyebrows from Deirdre as she and Steph go into the kitchen for a brew.
At Bettabuys, Reg is accusing Curly of blackmail, but Curly tells him it's not, they both have a decision to make and Curly's decision may depend on Reg's.
Steph and Deirdre are talking about fellas and Deirdre is offering Steph advice on marriage and how she would hate to see Steph press the self-destruct button on her marriage. Deirdre tells Steph that she can let Des think he has got his way, but he really doesn't have to. (Deirdre is SO well suited to offer relationship advice!)
Reg has buckled under Curly's threat of blackmail and tells Raquel that he won't be accompanying her to Buxton, but Curly will. Raquel is delighted at this news!
Steve comes home from school and Liz tells him she is worried about Andy and the trouble he could get into, but Steve is not worried and won't have a word to try to stop Andy.
Alec is working on the books in the living room and Bet tells him he must accept the inevitable, that Alf will not run for council. Bet knows that all Alec wants to do is knock Deirdre off the council so that Phil won't be able to open the nightclub. Bet tells Alec to give it a rest, it just isn't worth all the aggro.
Audrey is wittering on at Alf about the dinner tomorrow night and how boring it will be when Alma comes in and Audrey tells her she is not going to the dinner.
Curly is buying a round for Angie and Raquel at the Rovers, Raquel tells Angie and Bet that Curly (not Reg) is going with her to Buxton and now Angie and Bet know why Curly is grinning from ear to ear! Ken comes in and as Liz serves him, he asks for a word with her about the boys. Ken would like her to convince the boys to help out at school as they, especially Andy, seem to have a lot of influence with the other students.
Des comes home to find Steph hard at work in the kitchen, clearing up ALL the dishes. Steph tells Des that she is tired of living in a pigsty, and so they will each do 50/50 - and she tossed Des the towel to dry the dishes as she has washed them. Des says he has to do his laundry - Steph says later - Des says now - and she tosses him a plate to dry, which he lets drop to the floor. The plate shatters, and Des tells Steph that she can chuck them all for all he cares - and she does!!!! Plate after plate, all tossed on the floor! Des says that he guesses he will have to make his own arrangements for tea and walks out of the kitchen, crunching on broken dishes as he goes. Steph responds by picking up everything in the drainer, and throwing it on the floor, with much frustration.
Back at the Rovers, Jim comes in and Liz is too busy to serve him, so Alec obliges. Jim can't help but boast about Andy and running the book at school - but Ken overhears. There will be trouble!
Writer: BARRY HILL Director: JOHN DARNELL
Wednesday (3200, Friday 15 March 1991)
Morning rush in the café as Audreh stands at the counter bending Alma's ear as Alma gets her some change. She has no desire to attend Alf's WART (Wetherfield Association of Retail Traders) dinner tonight. Alma teases her gently about moaning all the time; first she moans that he never takes her out and when he does, she is still unhappy. Audreh invites Alma to trade places with her. "You'd be sat between my Alf and a cross-eyed chandler with a prostate - the conversation just sparkles!" Alma's comeback is, "Where'd you think he was taking you - to the Oscars awards?"
Back at the shop, Alf notices Andy's United team muffler and comments that he ought to be supporting Wetherfield, a very historic team. Andy patronizingly listens as Alf reminisces about when they almost won the fourth division title. He also shares with Andy that he was once asked to sit on their board. During this reverie, Ken enters the shop and gives Andy a sharp look from across the floor. He doesn't notice that Liz is also in the shop as she is hidden behind one of the rear aisles. Andy is off now, joking with Alf to let him know if he still interested in that board seat as Wetherfield is one of the clubs he is thinking of buying, once he's sold his bike, that is! Alf gets a chuckle out of the joke but as Ken approaches the counter with his purchase, you can see that he doesn't find it funny. When Alf remarks to him what a sharp lad Andy is, Ken responds, "A little too sharp for his own good!" Liz, still at the back of the store looks up in puzzlement when she hears this.
Audreh rushes in and Alf complains that she took half an hour just to go and get change. She dismisses him but rushes to take his place behind the counter and finish waiting on Ken. Alf's mind is on the banquet - he wants to know what he should tell them about her not being there. "Tell them a little white lie - tell them I've got bubonic plague if you like!" As Ken leaves the shop, Alf blusters, he doesn't care if she doesn't go! He'd rather she doesn't go, come to that. After she gets a drink in her she starts making funny remarks - she's no idea about loyalty. As Liz approaches the counter, Audreh tries to enlist her support. "Now Liz, it takes more than loyalteh to sit there listening while he gets up on his hind legs and starts spouting!" Liz patiently waits to be served as the Roberts square off. Alf is now determined that Audreh won't be going. He says she'd only show him up if she came, him and herself! She takes exception to this and announces she has decided to go after all. "Oh no you're not!" says Alf. "Oh yes I am!" says Audreh. "Oh no you're not!" says Alf. "Oh yes I am!" says Audreh. Liz tries to lighten the atmosphere by asking, "Is this where the audience gets to join in?"
In the café there is a gaggle of school kids hanging around the arcade game. With a trolley cake and tea, Ken sits down to his paper but is soon spotted by Tracy who leaves her friends at the machine to demand why he has to come in there. He can go to the pub, unlike her group. "Not now, I can't", he tells her, "and not for trolley cake." Tracy gives him a scowl before returning to her friends and the game. Ken notices Andy in the group and calls him over for a word. Andy listens impassively as Ken lectures him about his bookie business. Andy coolly defends himself: no one forces the kids to have a go, he just gives them the opportunity to place a few bets. Ken urges Andy to call it what it is, "encouraging them to gamble"! Tracy gives several nervous glances in the direction of the table as her father talks to her school mate. Ken notices his daughter's discomfort and lowers his voice to issue Andy a warning. Now that he knows what Andy's up to, it makes life very difficult for both of them. Andy falls silent as Ken gets up to go. He walks away with a final word: "Okay, have a trolley cake - but I've told you!"
At the hotel in Buxton it's happy hour, the warm-up to the Miss Bettabuy competition. Raquel is dressed in a flashy number, very fitted shocking pink low waist bodice with spaghetti straps and a double layer black taffeta ruffled skirt. The tulle bow in her over-teased hair matches her dress and she sports chandelier earrings that would rival anything Bet owns. The neon blue eye shadow finishes off her ensemble. All in all, she looks quite fetching in a tarty way. But it's clear her confidence is lacking as she looks around at her competition. Curly comes over as she is loading up on Dutch courage to tell her that IF she can relax, she will walk away with the title. He takes her through a rehearsal of her "ambitions". She wants to: "learn a foreign language, see the world, prove that you don't have to be a feminist gorgonzola to get to the top..." "That's 'gorgon'!" he corrects her. "I was only joking", she tells him, "I'm not thick!" Then she pauses to wonder if they will even believe what she is saying. "Never mind that - now listen... You love kids and you spend all your spare time running marathons for..." "Leukemia research", they finish in unison.
Curly spots one of the judges approaching from the other side of the room and warns Raquel to be friendly to him. The judge is none other than Brendan Scott, the man head office sent to investigate Reg not long ago. Casting lecherous looks at Raquel, Scott expresses wonder at the fact that Reg "deputized" Curly to do the honour of escorting Raquel to the event. Raquel nervously smiles at his flirtations until Curly points out to him that another judge is trying to get his attention. As soon as he is out of earshot, Raquel stops smiling and remarks to Curly how creepy she found him. Curly tries to get her mind back on the competition. He cautions her again to relax, "give them Marilyn Monroe". "How d'ya mean - stand in a draft?", she asks. He explains: "It's that half asleep, dreamy look... Not so much, 'Come to bed' as the 'Let's not get up at all' look." Raquel thinks a lie-down is a good idea. Her stomach's all knotted up.
At the Barnes household, Des is sat comfortably in front of the telly, enjoying his supper and a can of ale when Steph comes in. Noting her apparent aggravation at the mess, he makes a sarcastic comment about the "stylish design of the fungus" and the "exciting ceramic floor covering". (I think this was a reference to the dishes she smashed all over the kitchen floor yesterday.) Steph puts on a pretense that she isn't bothered and tries to change the subject. But when she tells him that she's just broken her heel on a paving stone outside, Des glibly suggests that she sue her father. She now reacts in anger: "Who do I sue for being married to a complete idiot?!" "Now, now... I've solved the problem", he soothes. The 'solution', according to Des, is paper plates which he's just stocked up on. Picking one up and flinging it at her, he demonstrates that they can throw them all they want and no one will get hurt. Far from amused, she catches the paper plate and yells at him that he needs a good psychiatrist. "Why?", he bellows back, "I already live in the loony bin!" In anger and frustration, she answers, "I know! But why do I have to be the only other inmate?" "Because you love me!" he replies smoothly. In tears of fury and exasperation, she hurls the paper plate at him and storms out. Des' mocking laughter dies down and a look of remorse crosses his face as he realises his little joke has gone too far.
In the Rovers, Angie and Bet have a brief exchange at the bar. Bet comments that Angie and Curly make a funny couple with Angie quickly pointing out that they are not "a couple", merely flatmates. Bet also expresses the hope that Angie and her student mates won't be too hard on poor Curly, "taking the mickey out of him", daft as he is. Angie assures Bet that no one is taking the mickey out of Curly and anyway, she doesn't see him as "daft", only "serious". Bet seems genuinely surprised that Angie doesn't see him as daft. She thinks he is as daft "as a yard of toffee".
A little further down the bar, Alec is sussing Deirdre out on her interest in the next elections. She confirms that she will run again and wonders that he isn't planning to stand for council as he's taken such an interest. "Oh no", he assures her with a grin, "can't mix politics with this trade!" The door bursts open and Steph comes in, making her way straight to the bar to stand beside Deirdre. Heads turn to see the cause of the racket and Alec curtly informs her that he doesn't appreciate her "wrecking the place". She apologises for her entrance and asks if there is any food on. When Alec goes to fetch her a hot pot, Deirdre asks her gently if she would like to talk about whatever is bothering her. Steph seems despondent as she answers quietly, "No."
At Buxton, the Miss Bettabuy competition is in full swing. The eight smiling contestants are onstage and the Master of Ceremonies, an oily little man in a cheap tux, is making tacky jokes. Brendan Scott pointedly clears his throat from the floor, prompting the MC to get on with the business of announcing the winners. As Raquel trembles with anticipation, Curly smiles encouragingly to her from the audience. With a flourish, the MC announces the third, then the second runners up. Finally, the moment of truth arrives. Raquel excitedly glances at Curly and he returns her look with a broad grin and two thumbs up. Drum roll... "And the winner of the crown, Miss Bettabuy, North West Region, nineteen hundred and ninety one is... Misss Bettabuy STAAA-leybridge!" As the new queen steps forward to greet her subjects, Raquel is visibly deflated.
With a glance at the remains of the evening meal on the dining table, Liz slips on her jacket and announces that she'd better not find "this lot waiting" for her when she comes home from work. Jim, without looking up from his paper, assures her that Steve will do the washing up. This results in a look of "why me?" from his son. As soon as Liz is out the door, Andy dons his jacket as he is going over to his friend's place. His brother quips that he's more likely going to see the friends's sister. As Andy goes out the door, Steve calls after him to avoid "Bog-face". Jim puts his paper down to inquire who "Bog-face" is and Steve tells him about Ken Barlow being on Andy's case about his bookmaking. Jim chortles when Steve informs him there isn't much Bog-face can do as "half the teachers" have bets on!
In the aftermath of the contest, Miss Bettabuy contestants and company are gathered in the hotel lobby having drinks and nibbles. Raquel is still upset at losing the crown but says she doesn't blame Curly though he *was* the one who advised her to do Marilyn Monroe. Curly ruminates that if the judges had "any vital functions left" she would have walked it by a mile. She was the only one with any personality, the rest of them are like "boiled sweets"! She's "far too sexy" for them, he concludes. When Raquel says she doesn't want to stay at the party any longer, Curly eagerly suggests they go upstairs. A careless bump from a man passing behind him and Curly spills his red wine all over his trousers. "Thank you, pal! Thank you!" he calls in annoyance. He notices that some of the wine splashed on Raquel's dress too but she tells him she was about to take it off anyway. As they leave hand in hand to go up the stairs, Curly is moved to call over his shoulder, in glee this time, "Thank you, pal! Thank you!!!"
Back in Wetherfield, Ken calls around to have a word with Jim about Andy's bookmaking. Jim refuses to take the matter seriously. He's just after a bit of fun, he argues, and if it keeps him at school, where's the harm? Ken takes a much dimmer view and after a futile attempt to make Jim see his perspective, cautions that he has seen families wrecked by gambling. Jim can't resist lashing out: "Yeah? I can show you families wrecked by the man playing around with other women!" he shouts. "Don't you go calling Andy a bad example - get my drift?" Ken is miffed by the rebuke but quietly goes out the door, leaving Jim silently cursing his own rashness.
After the WART dinner, Alf is being given a lift home by the widow of a friend, Mrs. Barford. Alf is gratified when she compliments him liberally on his speech. She continues to boost his ego, flattering him that a man of his caliber ought to be in public office. "A man like you, it's yer duty - yer DUTY!" She continues with conviction: "They're nothing but a race of midgets and silly shalliers (?) in that town hall. Why, you'd cut a swathe through them!" Alf nods in modest agreement. Mrs. Barford is determined now. "We need men of your mettle. You stand!" she orders. "And you need look no further for someone to lick your envelopes!" Alf's eyes widen with fervor as he considers the notion of being on the council again.
In Buxton once again, Brendan Scott makes his way down an upstairs corridor of the hotel and stops in front of room 27. To his surprise, a trouser-less Curly answers his knock. Curly hastens to explain that he is having his trousers sponged off after having wine spilled on them. As Raquel calls from within to inquire who is at the door, Brendan points to the "Do not disturb" sign hanging on the door and suggests that Curly's presence in her room constitutes "an abuse of his position". Curly retorts that his trousers would be rather easier to explain at head office than the other man turning up with a bottle and two glasses! Brendan warns him that he is "a long way out on a limb for a man with no trousers" and insists that *he* was only seeking to comfort the young lady! Raquel comes to the door to see for herself who it is and Curly informs her, "Just someone who's brought some champ... er... Asti Spumanté to cheer you up..." She slams the door shut on both of them, sobbing, "I don't want any Asti flamin' Spumanté!" Lavishly handing the bottle and glasses over to the junior manager, Brendan takes his leave, telling Curly that Raquel obviously needs cheering up and he hopes he is "man enough to do the job"!
Returning home, Alf enters the sitting room where Audreh and Alma have been sharing a bottle and a bit of gossip. Audreh greets him with indifference and is irritated when Alf exults about the success of the evening. He tells her how well respected he is "on the other side of that door" and she cynically asks by whom. "By the majority of the voters in this ward!" he says. As Alma rises to be on her way, Audreh smirks, "Don't you mean the minority of voters? As I recall, you lost the last election!" "I'm not talking about the *last* election - I'm talking about the *next* election!" he jubilantly informs her. "As from tonight, my hat is firmly IN the ring!"
Brendan Scott MILTON JOHNS Mrs. Barford PAULA
TILBROOK MC: TIM THOMAS
Writer JULIAN ROACH
Thursday (3201, Monday 18 March 1991)
Alf stumbles through the door of the shot with an amrload of boxes and exclaiming what a grand day it is outside. Audrey rolls her eyes away from her nail file for a moment as Alf expands on how the exercise is wonderful, healthy mind and body and all that, in a vain attempt to convince Audrey he's fit for an election race. Audrey's not impressed however, telling him he better ring the undertakers to give them enough notice to make sure there's enough wood for a box to fit him and reminds him to check that his insurances are up to date. (And this is so unsettling writing this sort of thing given the events of January 1999)
Des eats runny eggs of paper plates. Steph and he spar over the mess. Des puts up a brave front but his appetite for his eggs wanes after Steph stomps off in a huff yet again.
Over at Number 9, Jack is owly over not getting any breakfast. Not being up on time, Joss has eaten his for him rather than waste food. Jack is his usual sunshiny and bright self this early in the morning, sniping at Joss for not putting his hand in his pocket to contribute for groceries. Vera just spends the whole scene sniping at Jack. It seems Joss doesn't carry money, a matter of principle you see. He's rather a disciple of Mahatma Ghandi who never carried money, having taken vows of poverty and abstinence. You mean, Jack points out, he depends on the generosity of others? Joss tells a cock and bull story (In my humble opinion!) about meeting Ghandi and playing a round of darts with him in a pub called the Spotted Pig (of course, the Mahatma didn't' buy him a pint, he doesn't drink). Jack reckons the Mahatma also went on hunger strikes, implying Joss ought to do the same if he's such a disciple or pay up!
Ken waylays Andy at school, insisting Andy pay back all the money he's taken as bets or Ken will go to the head mistress of the school. Andy, remarkably polite, explains he can't do that, it isn't just his reputation (which Ken has no concern over). It's also all the kids who will be winning money that will be upset and tells Ken Tracy has even put a bet on! Andy takes himself off to class so later, Ken does what he has to do, the weasly little snitch, and goes to Mrs. Jeffers and spills all the beans, giving her the book. (oh, i couldn't resist!)
At Bettabuys, Vera is commiserating with Raquel over her pageant loss. Raquel seems a bit disappointed but not overly so. Curly comes by and gives Vera lip about standing around gassing and wasting company time. Vera huffs off, implying to Curly that Raquel had made serious complaints about his lack of performance the night before. However, Raquel said nothing of the sort, she whispers to Curly, having no complaints in that department, as she smirks and eyes him up and down, emphasis on "down"! It's not everyday she locks a fella out of her bedroom in his underpants and he comes back with a bottle of champagne! She just hopes all the high jinx of last night doesn't get back to head office! Curly (looking rather fetching i must say) tells her not to worry about that, and leaves her with a wink and a smile.
Only to run into Mr. Holdsworth who is foaming at the mouth about his store's reputation being fully sullied over the dead last position of their Miss Bettabuys. Curly tries to tell Reg that it wasn't his fault but Reg is in full twitch. Finally Curly manages to explain that they never had a chance. One of the judges was Brendan Scott!!!!
Joss, blowing another one of Ghandi's principles, drains the last drop (practically licking the glass out) of a drink in the pub, telling Jack he was crushed when Vera's mother died. Jack is cheered by the news that Joss is going back to his own home later today but his hopes are dashed as Joss informs him that he's only picking up his personal things to brighten up his room at Number 9 (looks like his feet are permanently under the table now!). Audrey arrives in the Rovers and begs Alec to convince Alf not to run for council. Alec, however is chuffed to find out that Alf has changed his mind and thinks Audrey is over reacting and over protective. Audrey does seem genuinely worried about Alf's health though, the stress and tension of running an election might be fatal and she hopes Alec can live with that since he isn't about to help her make Alf see sense. Liz and Jim have overheard the goings on and Liz comments that she can well understand Audrey's position. Jim just thinks all women worry too much, after all she's still worried over Andy. But he's had a word with Bog Face (Ken Barlow! He's talking about Ken! ROFLMAO!) and has told him a few home truths. He won't be bothering them again. (But you know, every time Jim sticks his oar in, it backfires!) He and Liz share a leer and a blush over the reason he hadn't got around to telling her "last night"
Alec comes round to the shop to congratulate Alf and tell him he's behind him all the way. Alec switches horses smoothly in midstream as Audrey enters, making noises about Alf's health but Audrey isn't fooled. Alec knows when he shouldn't be where he is and quite soon, he isn't. Audrey then gives him more grief for the rest of the afternoon about his health and wondering why he even thinks he's going to win anyway. Alf is confident (he has all the envelope lickers he needs, after all! LOL) that his experience is going to hold well and he even hints that he'll use any skeleton in Deirdre's closet if he has to, astute politician that he is. But later on, in the living quarters of the Rovers, when Alec suggests the same thing, playing off Alf's upstanding moral character against Deirdre's evil past, Alf seems to be hesitant, not wanting to seem petty. Do you want to win? Alec demands to know. Alf looks as if he wants to say "Not that way i don't." (Make up your mind, astute politician, you!)
Mrs. Jeffers has Andy on the carpet, scolding him for taking money from 163 students. (!) Andy, still in that arrogant but polite tone, explains taking money is stealing, he just gave them the opportunity to make a wager, an investment. It's Free Enterprise. She thinks his talents might be better put to use volunteering in good works but Andy practically shudders at that prospect. She insists he is to give all the money back, with Mr. Barlow supervising the procedure but next time he'll be in deep waters indeed, if it ever happens again. Steve later, in the corner shop, harshly accuses Tracy of grassing Andy to her father. Even though she swears she didn't, in what we will soon recognize is a typical Steve maneuver, Steve rudely and cruelly calls her down, positive he is right and leaves her in tears to be comforted by Audrey.
Liz has come to warn Deirdre that Alf is going to run against her in the election. Deirdre isn't too worried, but figures it will be a fair and honest fight between the two of them. Liz wonders if Alec might have Alf fighting dirty pool but Deirdre assumes Alf's integrity will out. But we know differently don't we, with Alec already pulling Alf's strings.
Reg's demeanor has come down a level but he's still incensed to find out about Brendan's midnight attempt to worm his way into Raquel's room (but he doesn't find out Curly's state of undress at that same time!). Curly tactfully explains he gave Brendan the run off and managed to get the bottle of illicit champagne to it's rightful recipient in the process. He suggests that they, instead of making a complaint to Head Office, let sleeping dogs lie and keep the information for use to their advantage in the future. They smile conspiratorially (and a dynamic duo is born!)
Jim is not pleased to hear that Ken grassed Andy and will be supervising the pay back. Liz is pleased and glad there is an end to it. Jim is firmly on Andy's reputation's side but it seems what's done is done (and why do i have a bad feeling about that?)
Joss has brought his bits and pieces back to Number 9 and is sorting through them while Vera looks on. There's the tools of his trade, his barber's razors and an old photo of her mother. There is a framed picture of a dapper looking fellow who Joss says is his grandfather on his mother's side, of course. Vera thinks the man looks familiar. Should do. That's King Edward VII! (I want a DNA test!)
Des comes home to find a congealed egg still on its paper plate on the table and Steph making herself a salad on the counter in HIS space. They bicker and Des ends up taking his tins of whatever out to the boat where Steph suggests he live permanently!
In the pub that evening, Jim is still grousing about Ken Barlow (Bog Face, just in case you all forgot! :P ) Who comes in? Bog Face and he hesitates but approaches them and restates his defense, that he had no choice. Jim growls and takes himself off home before he thumps Ken. Elsewhere Vera has told Jack about Joss's latest story. Jack believes Joss is firmly in a fantasy land (so do i!) But why, Vera questions (and i think at this point, she is skeptical), would he say such a thing when he even has a picture? (which you could tear out of any library book and put in a cheap frame!) She's worried about him, he IS her dad. Is he? Jack wonders, Vera should probably think on that too!
Des hunkers down over his tin of beans under a battery light in the boat's cabin. Steph hollers out to see if he has the can opener. He does but he makes her come out to fetch it and even makes her come aboard, rather than put himself out at all. She starts to climb up but loses her balance (or i think, maybe a piece of wood she grabbed onto to hike herself up gave way). She crashes to the ground moaning. Des thinks she's having him on at first but is stunned to see she really is in pain, thinks she's broken her ankle!!
Sue Jeffers - ROMY BASKERVILLE
Writer - KEN BLAKESON Director - OLIVER HORSBRUGH
Friday (3202, Wednesday 20 March 1991)
At the Barnes, Steph is hobbling over to the phone, without Des' help, to call work and tell them she won't be in as she has broken her ankle by falling off of Des' boat. Des storms off to work when he hears what Steph calls his boat.
At the Duckworth's, Vera is getting the milk, Joss is upstairs singing in the bathroom, and Jack is buttering his toast when an argument starts about Joss being the grandson of King Edward VII - Jacko thinks Joss is crackers and maybe not even Vera's dad. Vera sticks up for Joss, who just then comes down for breakfast. Joss asks them not to talk about this to anyone, and with that Jack goes to talk to his pigeons in hopes of hearing something sensible.
Over at the McDonald's, Liz gives Jim what for for slagging Ken Barlow in the Rovers, but Jim defends himself. Andy comes in, quite subdued, and Liz tells him to give back the students their money, but all Andy says is that if his mum and Ken hadn't kicked up such a fuss over this, none of this would have happened. Andy heads off to school, without his cornflakes, and Liz asks Jim to talk to him.
Deirdre is in the corner shop and Audrey asks about Tracy, she has heard about the trouble at school and that Steve McDonald had a go at her. They discuss the effect of having Ken as a teacher at Tracy's school and how Tracy gets the backlash every time Ken tells a student off - but of course, Ken wouldn't see it that way. Alf comes in from the back and tells Deirdre that he will be running for council and Deirdre wishes him luck and is looking forward to a good, clean fight.
Alec is still mumbling on about Phil Jennings and Bet tells him she knows it will be dirty tricks time with him masterminding Alf's election campaign - and she warms him to lay off Deirdre's love life. Alec thinks that only reason Phil has Deirdre for a girlfriend is because she is on the council and that Phil is using her just as he used Bet and Alec.
Back at the corner shop, Alf is working on votes by being especially nice to a customer, but all Audrey wants to know is if his insurance is up-to-date. (Hmmmmm, perhaps she should have made sure of that oh, about 7 or 8 years down the road?) She thinks that all Alf will get out of being on council is a lot of stress and upset and she wants to him to get the ok from a Dr. Alf tells her that he gets all his hassle from Audrey at the shop and at home.
At school, Ken and Andy are handing back all the bet money to the students. Tracy is next in line but she tells them both she doesn't want it back. Andy wants to call it a day, but Ken insists they continue.
Alf and Alec are campaign planning in the Rovers and discussing the other candidates. Don comes in and tells Jack and Bet about Des arriving home with a bag of chips.
Which leads us to the Barnes home, where Des is enjoying his chips, offering to share with Steph, who is sitting in silence, but finally she tells him that she's not hungry. Des tells her he is sorry that she fell off the boat as it has messed up her holiday plans, and to square things with her, he is going to clear up the mess in the house - she couldn't do it now, even if she tried. Steph tells him no - because she would then owe him a favour - like not going on holiday. Des tells her that she can't go now, not with a broken ankle, but Steph insists that she is going. Des' response "Marvelous, flaming marvelous" and he throws the chip wrapper on the floor.
Alf comes into the corner shop, very polite to a departing customer and he tells Audrey there goes a potential vote for him. Audrey cracks "or against you!". Alf tells Audrey that he and Alec have the entire campaign mapped out. Audrey wants to make sure his health will stand it and tells Alf that she has made a Dr.'s appointment for him at 4:00. Alf is not pleased.
Steph is fumbling around with the ironing board while Des watches her and insists that he will not help her at all. He tells her she can't go on a skiing holiday with a broken ankle, people usually come back from skiing holidays with broken ankles. She won't be able to ski, but Steph says she will have to settle for apres ski this year. Des tells her that he has read the small print on her holiday brochure and can get her money back - but Steph insists that she is going and she will have a wonderful time, better probably than she would have done.
Tracy comes in from school and almost immediately there is a knock on the door, and Deirdre answers it and finds Liz, who wants to have a word with Tracy. Liz wants to assure Tracy that Steve won't bother her again. Tracy tells her mum and Liz that the kids think she is the one who told about Andy's betting, but Liz tells her she knows it wasn't her and she will make sure that Steve knows it too. Tracy asks her not to, besides it is really her dad that bothers her.
Alf is at the Dr.'s to get the all clear for running for council. His blood pressure is ok but he needs to lose weight (he needed a Dr. to tell him that?) Dr. Summers tells him that there is a risk in everything he does, but she doesn't see running for council being any more of a risk than anything else. Alf is pleased that the Dr. has given him the go ahead.
Tracy is sitting at the table at home when her dad drops in, and she is so pleased to see him ... NOT! Deirdre tells Ken that Tracy has been getting bullied at school, but Tracy protests that she hasn't, and all it is is a lot of fuss about nothing, and she does not want Ken to go shouting at people at school about it. Deirdre defends Ken by saying he is just doing his job and Ken defends himself saying that he tried to talk to Andy but he wouldn't budge, so he had to go to Mrs. Jeffers. Tracy goes upstairs to do her homework and Ken tells Deirdre that the whole mess is finished. Deirdre tells Ken that Liz is going to talk to her lads. He hands her Tracy's bet money and leaves.
Liz is setting the table while telling Steve he is not to pick on Tracy, but Steve doesn't think it is fair, everyone having a go at him when he is just sticking up for Andy. Andy wants the subject changed. Steve tries to justify talking to Tracy, but Liz grabs him by the shirt front and tells him he is not to take it out on Tracy for what Steve might think of her dad. Andy pipes up in agreement and says that he doesn't think it was Tracy. Jim arrives home and starts mouthing off about Ken, but Liz tells him to stop, Ken was only doing his job. Again, Andy wants the whole subject dropped.
Audrey is still stuck behind the counter at the corner shop and she worries aloud to Ivy about Alf not being back from his 4:00 Dr.'s appointment. She tells Ivy that she got Alf to go as she is worried about the stress of him running for council. Alf comes in and Audrey grills him for information on the Dr.'s diagnosis and Alf tells her he is fit to run, and the best thing for him is some wifely attention!
Des is sitting in the living room, reading a boat magazine, while Steph is chucking all her ski trip paraphernalia down the stairs. Des launches into a speech about how the best thing to do with some people is to ignore them and how he is not bothered, in any way, shape or form. Steph then take the stairs down on her bum, peering through the railing. She asks Des why he keeps talking to himself, but he just ignores her.
Joss has just finished his tea and tells Vera that it was an elegant sufficiency. Vera thinks he talks quite posh. Joss is still going over his royal connections for Vera, how his granny went into service and that is when she met King Edward. Vera thinks the story is a wonderful romance but Joss assures her it is true as he heard it straight from his mum when she was not long for this world. Joss says he was as shocked as Vera is now but there is royal blood in her veins and Vera has to carry it like Joss had to, knowing she is royal. Joss reminds her that she and her Majesty are cousins. Vera finally tells Joss that now she knows, she really does feel different.
Don and Ivy have popped into the Rovers, and Ivy tells Don that Alf is looking for him, or rather, looking for his vote. Vera comes in for a brandy as she needs it to calm her down, and she tells Jack that she believes Joss. Jack doesn't believe and doesn't mince words telling Vera so. Vera tells Jack to stop "me'n my dad don't like it - in fact we're not amused". Jim is talking to Liz and apologizing for being out of order earlier, but Liz is not going to accept his apology as easily as Jim would like. She tells him that she has to think about it. Jim tells her not to worry about Andy, and it's all over now.
At the McDonald's, Andy asks Steve to return the bet money to one of the kids, but Steve says do it yourself. Andy then tells him that he is fed up with school and teachers and he is quitting.
Dr. Summers: DEBORAH FAIRFAX
Writer: JOHN STEVENSON Director: OLIVER HORSBRUGH
Monday (3203, Friday 22 March 1991)
It's morning in the corner shop, Audrey serves a gaggle of children buying sweets on their way to school. She forgives one of them his 2p short, to Alf's protest. At the back, Tracy is deciding on her school snack and moaning about going to school because of all the flack she's getting in the aftermath of her father's busting the gambling book! Even though she wasn't the one that told on Andy, they all think she did. Deirdre takes it quite lightly and Tracy goes off in a snit with a bag of crisps, startling Alf who calms down again when he sees Deirdre going to pay for them.
Liz puts on her morning face. Jim is putting on his coveralls and telling Liz about his busy day ahead. Steve skips breakfast on his way out the door and Andy has decided he's not going in at all. In fact, he's quitting school!! Jim rounds on him, "SIT!" He paces and hollers and threatens andy into going back to school. Andy refuses, saying it holds no interest for him anymore. Jim accuses Andy of running away when things get tough (too right! Chicken!), unwilling to face the fallout of the gambling book scandal! He and Liz both try to impress upon the lad how important qualifications are. No good. Andy tells them he only went back the last time for their sakes, not because he really wanted to. Jim tells him this and tells him no more, things aren't any easier on the outside! Liz shunts Jim off to work and sits down and tries to deal with Andy more gently but agreeing with her husband in theory. Andy whines how can he make his point if every time he disagrees with her, she calls it a tantrum (that's because it IS!) She knows from experience and regret how important it would be to get a good education and she finally gets Andy to agree to think about it, though she believes that him thinking about it after quitting and then maybe going back is really the long hard way to do it.
Vera is comparing a photo of her Terry with one of Prince William, looking for any resemblences. For every one she thinks she sees, Jack denies. Vera insists there's proof of their Royal blood, that embroidered handkerchief the late King gave to the Yorkshire house maid that would be Joss's grandmother in time. (Hankie!!!! was there any DNA on it? Inquiring minds want proof!) Jack is astounded that Vera would believe such a flimsy excuse. He's come up with thinner and only got thumped for his troubles when he wasn't believed! Ivy arrives looking for a ride to work and reminds Vera of their Bingo date that evening. Jack takes the opportunity to have a little fun at Vera's expense, joking that THE Vera Duckworth could only possibly go to Bingo if she wore elbow length gloves to mark her card. Ivy is confused, Jack highly amused, Vera wallops Jack but nobody enlightens Ivy.
Steph is nearly all packed for her trip, in spite of her broken foot. Des still thinks she's having him on and humours her, saying he can't be home to wave her off, he has to work. He says his good byes now and before she can attempt to make peace with him, he leaves for work and Steph sits there with her chin on her chest and shoulders slumped.
Jack has told Alec about Vera's Royal connections and Alec is highly amused. Liz arrives late, apologizing as there was trouble at home. Alec, in a sarcastically sympathetic tone of voice, quips "Surely Not!" then says to Jack, aside, They aren't the Walton's are they? Alec complains that there's never a "normal" day in the pub. Jack, fed well up, asks him to reckon what he's feel like over at their house. Alec winces and speculates, "D'you know, i'd rather not!" Aye, agrees Jack, wishing he didn't have to, either!
In school, Ken is giving some poor girl a load of teacher's codswallop about homework and assignments. He sees Steve talking to Tracy in the hall and, assuming the worst, barges in like a bull in a china shop with an accusatory tone, wondering what STeve is saying to his precious little princess. Tracy does not appreciate the gesture and, highly embarrassed, tells her contrite father that Steve was apologizing and storms off. Steve takes that opportunity to get his digs in, slyly letting Ken know that he at least won't have Andy to kick around anymore, Andy's leaving school. And given the hassle his brother has been given, he can't blame him and he struts off to class.
Back home at Number 11, Jim arrives, turns off Andy's loud music and goes tot he sink to degrease his hands, not saying a lot to Andy who tries to be amenable, offering to make his father some lunch. He is turned down curtly. Jim, we shall soon find out, is a man with a mission.
The jolly Mrs. Barford arrives at the shop to see Alf. Audrey looks on with amusement and a calculating gaze as Vivian bubbles over with enthusiasm now that Alf has decided to run for council. Alf attempts to introduce Audrey but Vivian jumps to the conclusion, in her enthusiasm, that Audrey is a mere employee but Alf knows which side his bread is buttered on and manages to correct the error, introducing his wife who is just off for her dinner.
Over at the pub, Joss has stopped in for a drink. Alec takes the opportunity to have a little fun with him over the recent revelation, calling Joss "Squire" and teasing him about crystal glasses and royal crests or certificates for over the bar to note Royal patronage. Joss is angry, realizing Jack has told the secret. He grabs Jack's arm and spits out Dangerous Talk costs Lives! (PHtttt! *wiping tea off the tv* Get real! Hands up who believes this crackpot!?) Jack confirms that he doesn't believe a word. Jim arrives, looking very handsome and spiffy in a black suit. He's decided to go to the school to talk to the Head. (cleans up nicely, so he does!)
Audrey returns to the shop after dinner, determining that Alf's grocer groupie has left and proceeds to make fun of her rotund little figure. Alf is annoyed at her attitude, the election is really getting to her isn't it? No, she sighs, because she's not letting it. The stress of the last election gave him a heart attack and she had to clean up the mess. So what if he gets in this time? What's in it for her? Leaflets and door to door? No thanks, his merry band of heavyweight grocer groupies can help him. Alf seems to let all this roll off his back, amused that she appears to be jealous!
Back to the pub, where Des must ask Liz twice for his pint as she is rather distracted by events of the day at home. Des confirms with Don that Steph is going on holiday alone, so she says. He assures Don he'll still get the taxi fare that he would have had for the airport run even though (he believes) Steph isn't really going. Don throws his hands up, wondering if they got married just to torment each other! Des smirks, isn't that what marriage is for? Don almost agrees with him! LOL Des is later seen in the shop buying wine and chocolates for a romantic night in.
Tracy clumps in the door after school, in a bad mood. Deirdre shuts off the hoover and apologizes for not taking Tracy seriously that morning, trying to sympathize with her. She remembers what it was like being teased about her specs! Not the same thing! (not at all!) Her biggest complaint is that her dad works at the same school and she never gets to hear the good gossip anymore because they all thing she tells! she wishes he dad would change schools and teach at Bessie Street.
Jack compares Terry's photo to one of the late king in a book on Royalty he borrowed from Percy Sugden. He doesn't really see any resemblance but when Joss comes in, Jack decides that the tabloids would pay a lot of money for the story anyway, whether it was true or not. Joss tries to impress on Jack the importance of keeping the secret of the Royal Blood, Official Secrets Acts and all that. There were many times he could have improved his lot by using the information but didn't out of respect (for the law knowing it could be proved otherwise, no doubt!). They squabble with Joss insisting Jack keep his gob shut. Vera arrives home and starts to give Jack grief for his continued attitude problem and suddenly Joss is all fatherly toward her, telling her it's just a big adjustment is all.
It seems Jim didn't get very far with Mrs. Head but having had his point of view heard, Mrs. Head now wishes to speak to Andy and hear his. Andy just doesn't see the point of it all, he really hates school and the argument begins again. Jim accuses Andy of lacking guts. Andy accuses his parents of using emotional blackmail and sulking to get him to do what they want. Ohh, That's it.... Jim, dangerously quiet, tells him this and tells him no more (again!) Don't speak to him like that and if he's not going back to school, he's not getting a free ride. He's to get a job and start looking tomorrow! Right. Just as stubborn as his old man, Andy agrees and announces not only that, he's going to move out and find new digs! Liz follows Andy out the room with a wail and Steve keeps his head down, finishing the washing up in the kitchen.
Des hides the wine and candy in a kitchen cupboard. When Steph wobbles in on her sticks, he makes up to her, apologizing for letting it get so far out of hand. It al started when he bought the boat which he truly did do for them, for a dream trip. She softens and they kiss and make up. Yep, fresh start. Right after she gets back. She hops up the stairs to get ready, laving Des looking astonished at how far she's willing to take it!
Audrey meets Deirdre at the pub and they chat about the upcoming elections. Deirdre is confident that she is still what the people of the ward need and welcomes a good honest challenge from Alf. Over in the corner booth, Ivy wonders why Vera has a daft grin on her face. Vera sighs about how happy she is to have her father around in spite of Ivy's cautions. Vera has thought about visiting Osborne in the Isle of Wight where Queen Victoria once lived but doesn't tell the astonished and mystified Ivy why!
Don comes to the Barnes house to pick up his fare with a grin, thinking he's in on the joke. Steph hands over her bags to be loaded and Don goes along with it, winking to Des. Des and Steph begin to say good bye but Des takes a phone call. While he's on the phone telling Martin he has to cancel their plans for tonight, Steph slips out. Des runs out after her only to see her drive away in the cab and he cries after her in disbelief!
Vivian Barford - PAULA TILBROOK
Writer - PAUL ABBOTT Director - OLIVER HORSBRUGH
Tuesday (3204, Monday 25 March 1991)
Ken drops into the McDonalds to try to talk Andy into staying in school. Jim is all but outright rude to him, but Ken doesnt seem to notice. Later that night, Jim drops into the Rovers to tell Liz that his mum has taken a turn for the worse and he has to go to Belfast in the morning.
Gail has all 3 kiddies at home today, as it is a school holiday. Later that morning, Sally drops in for a chat and tells Gail that Rosie slept through the night. She also whines about the poor money Kevin is making at his new job, and Gail offers to mind Rosie so Sally can go back to work part-time at the corner shop. Audrey has a go at Gail when Gail drops into the corner shop, saying that shes letting herself go, but Gail tells her she has other priorities right now. Then Audrey pops into the caf and has a go at Martin, telling him he should take Gail out, and she will babysit and Alf will pay (unbeknownst to Alf, of course!). At the end of the busy day, Martin tells Gail that he will mind the kids while she goes back to work at the caf.
Mike and Jackie go to look at a lovely, large, old home in the country. Before they left, they jokingly proposed to each other, and while at the house, Jackie comments how lovely the wedding would be in a marquis on the grounds.
Deirdre has asked Liz to be her agent in the upcoming election, and Liz agrees. Emily has assumed that Deirdre would ask her, after all she was last time, and they were successful. When Deirdre tells Emily that she has asked Liz, Emily is quite hurt. And it may backfire on Deirdre, as Liz ends up not being sure if she can, if Jim is in Belfast for long.
Des tries to talk Angie into cleaning his house, (starting at 3 and moving up to 5 an hour) but Angie declines, telling him he should do it himself.
Writer: PHIL WOODS Director: BRIAN MILLS
Wednesday (3205, Wednesday 27 March 1991)
Martin is brightly chirping about, getting the children's breakfast when Gail comes in, filled with eager anticipation for her first day back at work. She is excited at the idea of feeling a part of the outside world again but she wonders if Martin is absolutely sure he wants to stay home. He reassures her that he will be fine, the kids will be fine and she *knows* this is what she really wants. "Yes, Cinders, you *will* go to the ball!" Gail, with a renewed appreciation for Martin, goes all giddy, giving him a big cuddle and plants numerous affectionate kisses on his neck.
In Alf's Mini Market, Audreh is being run off her feet when Ivy drops a tidbit about Baldwin and his "lady-love" and the fact that they are looking at "posh" houses. Irritated, Audreh tells her she is too busy to be bothered about Mike Baldwin; she has all she can cope with, running the shop while Alf's gadding about, gearing up for the election. Suddenly, she stops and asks Ivy if she wouldn't consider quitting her job and working at home. Ivy laughs at the notion, she wouldn't be able to scratch out a living sewing at home. Audreh disagrees and anyway, then she would be free to give Gail a hand. Ivy immediately takes exception, doesn't Audreh think she does her fair share? That's not what Audreh was getting at, at all - she only wishes she could be of more help to Gail but Alf's got her stuck in the shop every hour God sends!
Ivy, sympathetic as ever, says Gail has only herself to blame for the situation she finds herself in. "That last baby was a big mistake and you know it!" (Eh, Ivy? You mean God made a mistake?!) Now it's Audreh's turn to be affronted and good on her! She tightens her jaw and says, "I know no such thing! David's a lovely little baby and Gail wouldn't be without him - none of us would!" Ivy is unmoved. "All the same, when you cock a snoot at holy matrimony, you can't grumble when the going gets rough!" She notices Des standing beside her waiting to be served and reels on him next: "And you'd do well to remember that an' all! Next thing to separate holidays is separate lives! It's about showing a bit of appreciation - if my Brian had been shown a little appreciation in his marriage, he might still be alive!" With that, she smacks her intended purchases down on the counter and blows out of the shop. Des is bewildered as to what he's done wrong and Audreh assures him, he only decided to buy his beans in the wrong shop.
At the McDonald residence, Liz is ironing a few things and giving Andy and Steve some instructions about what to cook while she and Jim are away in Ireland. Jim comes in and tells her there's really no need for her to accompany him. She wants to go though, it may be her last chance to see him mother. Andy wants to know if their gran is dying and Jim refutes the notion, until Liz reminds him that the boys are not babies and they deserve the truth. He allows that her condition is pretty serious and then has a quiet moment of reflection before deciding to go off to the yard and see if he can't get in a bit of work before they have to go. Andy offers to go along and help but Liz stops him as she thinks Jim needs to be alone for awhile.
Gail is thoroughly enjoying her first morning back in the cafe. She bustles around, greeting all the regular customers and they in turn are happy to see her back. Moving behind the counter, she joins Alma, who is busy at the chip pan but not too busy to show off her new earrings and tell Gail about the new ivory silk teddy she bought, "very page three"! Gail asks what the occasion is and Alma says she just came to the conclusion that no one else is going to spoil her so she might as well splash out on herself. Gail realises that Alma still misses Mike and Alma wistfully admits she would take him back tomorrow. Shaking her gloom, Alma tells Gail that she is very happy to have her back. Martin does fine in the cafe, but he's no substitute when it comes to having someone to talk to!
Emily comes into the cafe and is surprised to see Gail back. Is Martin ill, she wonders? Gail explains their new arrangement but Emily raises a disapproving eyebrow. Alma jumps in to defend Gail's decision, pointing out that Martin is more devoted than most women when it come to looking after children. Emily is reticent: "He isn't... a *mother* though, is he?" Gail replies with some agitation, "No, he's a *father*." Emily brusquely places her order and turns to find a table, whereupon Alma comments to Gail that she thinks she "stepped on her corns". "She stepped on mine first!" retorts Gail. Alma delicately points out that Gail can't expect everyone to approve, leaving Gail to augur Ivy's reaction when she hears of the arrangement: "Whoever could you mean, Mrs. Sedgewick?" she sighs to herself.
As they stroll through the factory together, Mike and Ivy discuss business briefly then Ivy inquires whether Mrs. Ingram will be buying the posh estate they were looking at. Mike curtly informs her that "they" will be putting in an offer. Ivy ventures to remind him that she's known him a long time, which Mike interprets (accurately) as her feeling she has liberty to speak her mind. She continues, "That Mrs. Ingram seems like a nice woman." "Is" a nice woman, Mike corrects her. "Alma was a nice woman, too." Ivy spouts. "I just hope you treat this one right!" Mike has had enough of her sermonizing and he sharply dismisses her now, scowling after her as she walks away.
Back in the cafe, Gail's exhilaration seems to have evaporated. Alma asks why she is so downcast as she was "a revolting little sunbeam" earlier. Gail explains that she is missing her baby. "I have a desperate need to be with him. Like a steel wire is pulling me back..." Alma comments, "If that's what they call "mother love' it sounds jolly inconvenient to me!" Gail tells her it's called "bonding" to which Alma replies, "Does that mean you'll be dashing home every few minutes? "Oh, can't do this egg, sausage and chip just now - I have this uncontrollable desire to change a nappy'!" Gail tells her she isn't actually going to go, she wants to be *here* too. She simply has to face the same problem all working mothers have: "guilt, hormones and identity crises, in equal parts - a lethal cocktail."
In the playground with the kiddies, Martin seems to be managing in his role as caregiver quite well. Sarah Lou comes to him with a complaint about her big brother pushing her off the swing and Martin soothes her and tells her to push him back the next time. (LOL - Not advice a mother would ever give but then, it's not a white bread world, is it?)
In the corner shop, Audreh is commending Deirdre on her bravery, taking on the McDonald twins while their parents are away. Deirdre jokingly protests that she'll only be looking in on them, not adopting them. Anyway, if she hadn't agreed to do it, they would have been stuck with Percy Sugden and she couldn't inflict him on the lads! (That would have been very funny, IMO!)
Sally comes in looking for Alf but as Audreh tells her, he is hardly around now that he's declared for the election. Sally only wanted to tell him that she is ready to start back part time at the shop. Audreh is ecstatic to hear it. Deirdre asks who will be looking after young Rosie and Sally tells her that Gail will be. Audreh thinks Gail has quite enough on her plate but Sally tells her she thinks Gail is the best judge of what she can cope with. Emily has entered the shop by now and joins in the conversation, saying she wonders if Gail does know what she can cope with. She was most surprised to see her back to work in the cafe so soon. Sally face falls at this report while Audreh conjectures that she must only be filling in, perhaps Martin is poorly? Emily insists that Gail told her this was their new arrangement; Martin stays home with the children while she works in the cafe. A rather "unnatural" state of affairs in Emily's opinion but then, it's really none of her business, she says with a sniff.
Liz and Jim are setting off to the airport in a taxi and just before they leave, she has a word with Andy. She asks him to promise that he'll still be there when they come home and he assures her that he will. Comforted, she smilingly waves to her two sons as she and Jim drive away. The boys wave back but as soon as their parents are out of sight, they let up a cheer, "Alone at last!"
Sally goes into the cafe to confront Gail. She'd like to know what Gail thinks she's playing at, agreeing to child-mind Rosie if she intended to go back to work herself. Gail is flustered at Sally's tirade and it takes her a minute to figure out what she's on about. When she catches on, she apologises and explains that the decision to come back to the cafe was all very last minute, she and Martin only talked about it last night. Sally angrily tells Gail that she made her look a right fool and that she and Kev were really counting on the money. Before Gail has a chance to answer, Sally turns and huffs out of the cafe.
At Ingram's factory, Mike is busy at his desk when Jackie comes in with some sandwiches for their lunch. She's been to see her solicitor this morning and when Mike asks whether she told him to put in an offer on the house, she tells him there are certain matters she needs to discuss with him first. Mike wants to know what's up but she puts him off, saying they'll talk about it later at home.
In the McDonald household, the boys aren't wasting any of their free time. Andy is on the phone inviting friends to a party that night when Deirdre comes to the door. Hearing part of the conversation, she asks about the party and Andy lets on that it's to be at a friend's house. That's alright then, she says. As long as they aren't going to be having it here. Their parents have enough to worry about at the moment, after all. She coyly reminds them that she'll be popping in to check on them from time to time and adds, "Isn't it lucky I'm only a few doors away?" When she leaves, Andy perfunctorily returns to the phone to call the party off.
In the cafe again, Don and Des are sat a table together enjoying a fry-up. Don comments that Ivy would have a fit if she saw what he was eating and Des retorts, "Doesn't take a lot to upset her, does it?" When he tells Don about the episode in the corner shop this morning, Don explains that Ivy has jumped to the conclusion that Des has been fooling around on Steph while she is away. It's all the women she's seen going in and out of his place. Des allows that there have been a lot of women coming into his house but only because he is looking for a someone to clean it.
In the Rovers, Deirdre and Bet are having a chuckle over what Deirdre calls her "dragon lady" routine with the McDonald lads. Making her way to a table, Deirdre joins Emily with a drink for each of them. Emily coolly thanks her for the drink, then broaches the subject of the election. Now that Liz is away, how will she manage? Deirdre says she doesn't think Liz will be gone for long and she wonders if that was that an offer to help. Oh no, Emily will be far too busy with the shop to work on Deirdre's campaign. Just as well she asked Liz to run it as she would have only had to refuse, she says. (I never knew Emily was given to pettiness but I suppose no one is perfect.)
From behind the bar, Alec has listened to the exchange between Deirdre and Emily and is indignant to learn that Liz will be running Deirdre's campaign. He turns to Bet to complain about this act of treason, his staff working for the other side. Bet's retort: "You believe in democracy, don't you? Or is that only as long as people vote the way you want them to?"
Mike and Jackie are just arriving home now and as soon as they get through the door, he asks her what it is she wants to discuss with him. She doesn't want to talk about it just yet, not until she's had a cup of tea and a nice bubble bath. He is a bit miffed at being put off again but she insists that she needs to unwind a bit first.
In the Rovers again, Sally and Kevin are dressed up and supposed to be enjoying a rare evening out together. Their respite is dampened by the fact that Sally won't stop ranting about Gail letting her down. Kevin tries to be understanding but he feels she is making too much of it. He becomes slightly annoyed when she tells him what she told Gail, that they really needed the money she would have brought in. He thinks they do alright and she shouldn't have let on they are in the poor house. Sally just wanted to make "the rotten cow" feel guilty, she says. He reminds her that they have a lot to be grateful for and she finally relents and cheers up a bit.
As Don and Ivy enter the Rovers, we hear him explaining to her about all the women going in to Des' place lately. Ivy isn't convinced, she still thinks the Barnes marriage is in trouble. Kevin and Sally approach and sound Ivy out on their problem. They wonder is she happens to know anyone who baby-sits. Sally goes on to explain that Gail was going to look after Rosie but that plan fell through when she went back to work in the cafe. Ivy is gobsmacked at the news and Don starts sputtering in anticipation of her reaction. He meant to mention it, he was going to tell her, he only just found out today as he happened to go into the cafe and... (Lookout, Gail!)
At the Baldwin-Ingram love nest, Jackie, post bath and tea, joins Mike in the sitting room so they can finally have their talk. When she mentions that she's put a casserole in the oven, he sarcastically comments that maybe they have time for a quick game of Scrabble now. She takes the hint and finally reveals what's on her mind. She starts out by reminding him that she went to see her solicitor, Gordon, this morning. She also mentions that Gordon is someone she's known for a very long time and that Peter had a great deal of faith in his judgment. Mike seems genuinely unprepared for what she is about to say: Gordon thinks that before they take the serious steps of getting wed and buying a home, Mike should sign a pre-nuptial agreement. While he absorbs this, Jackie hastens to point out that it's nothing personal, just a common sense precaution. Mike's jaw tenses and she asks if the idea upsets him. "Upset? Why should I be upset? Just because my fiancee asks me to sign a pre-marriage contract? I can't think of anything more romantic!" He storms out of the room, leaving Jackie distressed and confused at the strength of his reaction.
This truly excellent episode was written by the incomparable ADELE ROSE.
Thursday (3206, Friday 29 March 1991)
Audrey scores a point or two off Ivy in the shop this morning, needling Ivy on working on a Holy Day, Good Friday. A bit of banter about jobs and Phyllis testily points out that at her age you can't work cause nobody will hire you and she goes off in a huff with her basket of purchases. That manages to make Ivy and Audrey look like scolded children for a minute but it doesn't last. Ivy is on a roll, ranting about Gail going back to work and leaving Martin in charge of the children, some things just fly in the face of nature! Audrey sees no harm, as it's Gail and Martin's decision anyway and (inspired) she quotes the Bible at Ivy, Judge not lest Ye be judged!
Mike and Jackie discuss the prenuptial contract and it's implications. They reassure each other that they wouldn't be marrying if they thought they'd be divorcing. Jackie says the contract would prove to a few friends of hers who think Mike is trying to get his hands on the factory by marrying her. Mike agrees to sign when it is drawn up but seems genuinely bewildered by the whole idea. I wonder if he's disappointed in her? It certainly doesn't look to me as if he's trying to scam her.
Since it's a bank holiday, Kevin's giving Sally the day off and taking over child minding duties. He and Rosie set off for a walk and Sally plans to enjoy herself.
At the MacDonald's, Steve brings in the milk and the boys discuss what to do with their freedom. Steve suggests a party in spite of their guard dog, Mrs. Barlow but Andy thinks they'd get into trouble and be accused of doing exactly as their parents expected and they'd never trust them again. No, he's going to do the unexpected.
In the cafe, Sally and Gail are friends again. After all, Sally can hardly blame Gail for wanting to go back to work since she does too. Gail chuckles that Martin insisted. They discuss child minding problems and Gail suggests Sally ask Martin to mind Rosie on a part time basis, though it is still up to him if he accepts the job. Audrey comes in to spread the news about Ivy on the warpath. Alma comments that at least you always know where you are with Ivy. Audrey suggests that would be the 1950's but Alma had more in mind the middle ages and they cackle with delight at their own cattiness! They all agree, both generations, that in this day and age there's nothing wrong with a man minding the children.
Jackie heads off to the solicitors. Mike wonders if the whole contract isn't a waste of time and money. It's only effective if they split up and that's not going to happen. He's only interested in the one contract that says "To Death Do Us Part". ( I really get the feeling that Mike is fond of Jackie but doesn't truly love her. His original motive was the factory but i think he got caught farther in than he expected. Still i do believe this marriage contract has caught even him off guard).
In the pub, a very wrinkled and rumpled looking Des tries once again to get either Angie or Sally to do his cleaning but they are of the opinion that it wouldn't do him any harm to get up close and personal with a broom and iron. Des goes to the bar to get some darts and mentions his cleaning predicament and the trouble he's likely to be in if it's not solved before his wife gets back. Phyllis is at the bar and perks up at this. Betty is asked to work an extra shift to cover for Liz while she's away in Ireland and Phil and Deirdre come in for a drink. Deirdre mentions she's keeping an eye on the twins. When Phil realizes both Jim and Liz are away he wonders why the door to the bike shop is open. They both hurry out, promising Bet to return for their drinks.
The something unexpected Andy had in mind was to keep the bike shop open, take a few messages, sell a few parts. Responsibility! Phil and Deirdre come in to investigate and Phil jumps right in their faces until Deirdre tells him who the lads are. Andy explains he's just keeping things ticking over until their father gets back and lies, saying sure Jim knows all about it!
Sally and Angie emerge from the pub. Kevin comes around the corner behind them. Angie takes off and Sally and Kevin walk down the road arm in arm pushing the pram happily. Sally sounds out Kevin on her plan to ask Martin to mind Rosie. Other than the fact that Sally and Gail have already volunteered Martin's services, Kevin doesn't seem to have a problem with it so Sally plans to go round that afternoon.
Which she does. She asks Martin if he'd mind. He seems a bit surprised and makes a few smart remarks about cots in the attic nursery, publishing a book for baby care and inventing leakless nappies. However he takes a vote and Sarah and Nicky say it's ok with them so Sally has a sitter!
Jackie brings the contracts for Mike to sign. He plans to sign them unread though she thinks he should read them. He begins to sign one as the scene fades to a commercial. A bit later, Mike is alone in the office with his contracts when Ivy comes in, asking if they can leave early as they've ended a run. Mike must be distracted because he actually agrees. Ivy makes a remark about the Gail and Martin situation and asks Mike if he would ever stay home and mind a baby while his wife goes out to work. Mike thoughtfully says probably not but he's old fashioned like Ivy is. Fuel for more of Poison Ivy's rantings about the way things should be and the way things are not these days, not natural! On top of it all, there is no sanctity of marriage, why do things always need to be turned on their ear? She leaves an old fashioned Mike to thoughtfully begin to read over the contracts. (I smell dissension!)
Phil sits in the cafe. Alma and Gail have their heads together speculating about him. Alma thinks he's attractive in a rough sort of way. Gail doesn't trust him an inch and thinks he's rather spivvy! The sort that never pays full price for anything and always knows where he can get it cheaper. They jump when Phil interrupts to thank them on his way out. The girls stand close together, Alma with a silly grin on her face and Gail beside her with her chin (what there is of it) practically on Alma's shoulder. They look just like two schoolgirls caught out by the boy they were just talking about! Gail teases Alma about her grinning at Phil like a Cheshire Cat and they giggle with their heads together. Phil passes Andy at the fruit machine on his way out the door. He makes a veiled threat to Andy about not giving Mrs. Barlow any trouble or he'll be upset. Get me drift?
Ivy is now at the Platt/Tilsey household. After handing out treats to the older children and sending them upstairs, albeit at their request, she gives Martin a large piece of her mind. Martin, cuddling David, lets it roll like water off a duck's back and even throws a spanner in the works by telling Ivy next week he'll also be minding Sally's baby! Ivy is horrified and leaves with a warning about playing games with the lives and happiness of her grandchildren! Martin explains to baby David that that was *not* the Spanish Inquisition (which *nobody* expects!). It was his Granny Ivy!
Back home, Mike doesn't feel like eating out so Jackie wants to have a bath before making dinner. She reconfirms that the marriage contract is really just like an insurance policy that you hope you won't need but is there just in case, according to her solicitor. She realizes something is on his mind but he just sends her off to the bath.
Martin is snoozing on the couch, tired after a busy day. Gail tells him that looking after kids is harder than a proper job. Martin mentions Sally's visit and that he agreed to mind the baby. Gail reminds him he doesn't have to do it and they can always swop back if he would rather work in the cafe. Martin doesn't mind and besides then Ivy would think she'd won. He tells her about Ivy's ranting visit.
In the pub, Ivy's blasting Don's ear off about what Martin told her but Don thinks it's just a joke. Martin was having her on. She's not so sure and when Sally comes in the pub with Angie she wants to ask but Don holds her back. It's none of her business. Too right it is, she insists. Angie and Sally have a chuckle over Des and his cleaning problem.
Cleaning problem no more it seems. Des's house is spotless. A home cooked dinner is served, with wine and flowers on the table and an ever so grateful Des beaming up at Phyllis! (An era begins!) Phyllis promises to take good care of her Desmond, much better than any of those young girls would have anyway!
Jackie returns from her bath and Mike starts in. Why are they bothering to get married? Marriage is about sharing everything and being united but the contract implies they will still be living separate lives so why bother at all? She sputters and protests but Mike is adamant. He's not willing to get married, wondering what if it all goes wrong, which is what will happen if he has to sign these contracts which he has now read. Jackie is crushed. They look at each other, seemingly at an impasse. So now we know, she utters bitterly.
Writer - PETER WHALLEY Director - BRIAN MILLS
Friday (3207, Monday 1 April 1991)
April Fools Day and a Bank Holiday!
Jackie is trying to make it up with Mike, but he is having no part of it, and is off to work, even though it is a bank holiday. Jackie drops into the office later, to try to tempt Mike with a lunch out, but he is still resisting. He will not give in over the marriage contract. He tries to rationalize his feelings about it but it seems that Jackie sees through him. It comes down to trust does she or doesnt she? He ends up walking out on Jackie. Later that afternoon, Mike is back at the office when Jackie calls to tell him he is expected for dinner and he will have to eat what he is given. When Mike arrives home, Jackie has a fire going and a lovely table set, and she serves him the marriage contract all ripped to bits! She is going to eat her words, or rather, let the lawyer whom wrote the contract eat his words! The marriage contract is history and Mike is grinning from ear to slimy ear.
At the Duckies, Jack is tucking into breakfast, glad to see the back of Joss, when Vera opens a birthday card.from the Queen! Vera is touched and delighted and Jack encourages her. At the Rovers later, Jack tells Alec that he sent Vera the card from the Queen, and relays how thrilled Vera was. Alec reminds Jack that there is no post today as it is a bank holiday, so Vera must know the card is a fraud. Alec thinks that Vera would be announcing this excitement to the world if it was real which gets Jack thinking, as Joss has always told Vera that she must keep the blood lines a secret, and Jacks card emphasized the same thing. Jack asks Ivy if she has seen Vera, and Ivy has, and not a word was mentioned about the birthday card. Poor Jacko is getting worried! Back at home, Vera has framed a lovely collage of photos of the Royal Family and she has hung it prominently for all to see. She hugs her card, certainly not suspecting a thing. When Jack arrives home, Vera shows him the collage and tries to tell her that it was him that sent the card, but with no luck, Vera is so proud of the card, and so touching in her belief of the changes knowing has brought about. She credits her restraint in sharing this exciting news to her royal blood.
Phyllis is cleaning at Des', and she spies a postcard from Steph. Phyllis is really enjoying taking care of poor Des, and relishing every moment. Des tells her he wants the place spotless for Stephs return. Later in the Rovers, Phyllis tells Betty how hard done by poor Des is by Steph.
Martin and Nicky are having fun at home, teasing Gail with an April Fools joke. Over a the corner shop, Ivy starts her complaint tyranny for the day with Audrey, talking to her about Martin watching the kiddies, and dropping the news that Martin will also be watching Rosie. He next stop on the complain train is to Vera, but Vera is much too distracted to really sympathize. A little later, Ivy tries to corner Alma, but she too is distracted and not very interested. Alma is more interested in finding out from Martin if Gail is around. Shes at home, says Martin, and then we pop to Audrey visiting Gail, and telling her how she is taking advantage of Martin and not for much of a job anyway. Kevin and Sally are enjoying the bank holiday by taking Rosie to feed the ducks, well, actually Kevin feeds the ducks. Sally is having second and third thoughts about having Martin mind Rosie, but Kevin finally tells her it is a financial necessity. When Martin arrives home, Gail tells him that Audrey has been around and now she is having second thoughts about going back to work and leaving the kids with Martin. Martin builds up her confidence in her decision, telling her about the value of her job. (Nice guy, that Martin. I think nursing ruined him.) At the pub, Ivy is still moaning to Vera about the babysitting arrangements when Sally spies her and ends up giving the deserving Ivy an earful. Alma drops into see Gail at home and drops the bombshell that the rent on the caf is going from £225 to £900 monthly and they cannot afford it.
Writer: FRANK COTTRELL-BOYCE Director: JULIAN
JARROLD
Monday (3208, Wednesday 3 April 1991)
Gail and Alma spend the day discussing the 400% rent increase with each other and anyone else that will listen. Alma seems ready to give up and sell up. Gail wants to fight it. Ivy and Audrey both think it might be a good thing if Gail gives up the cafe but for different reasons. Ivy, because of course mothers *should* be at home. Audrey, because Gail has so much stress in her life.
Sally starts back at the shop but spends much of the morning on the phone to Martin who's minding Rosie. Martin and Rosie are getting on just fine but Sally is feeling the anxiety of separation and driving poor Martin potty.
Vera is still starry eyed over the card she received "from the Queen". Jack tries to take her down a peg, naturally. Later on, his partner in crime, Angie, asks how Vera enjoyed her April Fool's joke. Well Jack hasn't told her yet but he will do. But when he does, Vera doesn't believe him and calls him jealous because she's got blue blood and he doesn't. The card is too convincing in its looks even though Jack tells her he had help. He even brings Angie in the house to back him up but Angie turns the tables on Jack when she plays innocent. This infuriates Vera even more, thinking Jack is roping in a sweet young girl for his nefarious ways. Jack does not take Angie's "April Fool's, Jack!" very well.
Jackie still insists that they should have a pre-nuptial contract but this time, she'll have her solicitor draft one that is to Mike's advantage, not just hers. She and Mike sign an hand written pre-contract contract "We will not fall out" and she goes off to do her business. Her solicitor is horrified when she says she wants Mike to have 50% of everything. He tries talking her around in every way possible and finally gets her to agree to a compromise. Jackie later brings a new contract for Mike to sign. He asks what the gist of it is and is astounded when she has agreed to give him 25% of the factory on their wedding day. His no matter what happens. Mike wastes no time signing the contract, unread, this time!
Kevin picks up Rosie at dinnertime but is perplexed when he is greeted by a stony faced Sally at home. Seems he picked up the wrong baby from Martin's! Kevin starts to chuckle but Sally does not see the humour in it, highly offended that Kevin didn't even recognize his own daughter. Poor Kevin apologizes all the way to Martin's and all the way back and all the rest of the day. It looks like he's never going to hear the end of it so he stalks off to the pub, but manages to soften Sally to a smile when he comments, We'll have something to tell her when she's older! Sally finally sees the humour in it and gives in to a chuckle of her own.
Jim, ever so subtly (?) manages to get Alec to admit in public that Liz's job is going to be held open for her upon her return from Belfast nursing her mother in law. Des seems to be having second thoughts about his new housekeeper after hearing her war stories several times over.
Gordon Barrett - CARL FORGIONE
Writer - PETER WHALLEY Director - JULIAN JARROLD
Tuesday (3209, Friday 5 April 1991)
Gail prepares for another day of work, commenting to Martin that she has to sort our their increased rent on the Cafe immediately, or she may soon not have a job to go to. Martin tries to reassure her by saying that if worst came to worst, he could always go back to his hospital job. Sally arrives with Rosie, and when Martin cracks on about Sally bringing the right baby, she isn't amused.
While Vera's dad witters on about what he was up to the night before, Vera reverently shows him the card she received, supposedly from the Queen. Her impressed father says the card is "something to be treasured," adding that he hopes Vera intends to honour Her Majesty's request for discretion. Jack comes into the room as Vera's dad remarks that he's never received a card from the Queen, causing Jack to retort "because I never sent you one." Vera explains that Jack is letting on that he sent the card as an April Fool's joke; Jack explains that he had the card made and printed, "end of story." Vera puts this explanation down to simple jealousy, because Jack can't stand the thought of his wife having royal blood in her veins. Vera's father scolds Jack, saying that if he has no regard for Vera's feelings, he could at least show some respect for the royal line. Vera calls Jack "pig ignorant," before leaving for work. After her departure, Joss asks Jack to stop mocking Vera, but Jack repeats that he sent the card, and if Vera is upset, it's her dad's fault for starting the whole thing with his "cock and bull story of Edward the flaming Seventh!"
Mike Baldwin is also preparing for his day at the office, even though Jackie is trying to convince him to spend the day at home, with her. Mike can't meet her for lunch, either, as he has a business appointment. She mentions that she thought she'd visit a few estate agents that day, looking for a place of their own.
At the Cafe, Gail tells Alma that she's going to discuss the rent hike with the owner, and suggests Alma close the shop for an hour and join her. Alma feels there's no point, but Gail reminds her that if they can't get the rent reduced, they're going to have to close the Cafe. Alma wonders if that would be such a bad thing; she's thinking of cutting her losses and starting fresh somewhere new. A shocked Gail sarcastically thanks Alma for telling her this. She snaps that perhaps Alma should remember that this is her only source of income. Alma suggests that Gail could always get a new partner, but Gail retorts that people will hardly be queuing up to be her partner when they learn she's facing a 400% increase in the rent.
A pensive Sally stares at a pacifier when she is greeted by Betty in the Corner Shop. When asked how she's coping, Sally responds that she misses Rosie -- but they need the money. Betty reassures Sally by saying that she knows Rosie is in good hands, but Sally goes on about how she's being told she should enjoy the baby because they grow up so quickly. Without thinking, she moans on about being stuck in a corner shop, serving people she doesn't care tuppence about, and realizing what she just said, she apologizes to Betty.
Phyllis is picking through clothing at the Charity Shop, and holds up a pair of frilly knickers just as Joss Shackleton walks in, teasing her by calling her a "Jezebel." They all laugh over Joss' remarks, and Emily asks if he's come to buy something. He's looking for trousers, and Emily finds a pair in his size -- but they're too long. He doesn't know his inseam length, and suggests Emily measure him, but in great discomfort over those sorts of intimate investigations, Emily suggests that that sort of job would be better suited to Percy Sugden, whom she claims will be there soon. Mr. Shackleton says he'll wait, and caught in the lie, Emily says she never knows when Percy will show up. Ever helpful, Phyllis offers to go and find him. Even though Emily declines the offer, Phyllis rushes off in search of her beloved Percy.
Behind the bar, Jack tells Percy stories of his father-in-law, but Percy righteously informs Jack that he doesn't indulge in "tittle-tattle," and suggests that Jack change the subject. Meanwhile, Betty serves Jim MacDonald some hot pot and makes the observation that she hopes he's eating properly with his wife being away. Jim fears Liz will be away longer than she first expected, and he only wishes he could be with her. Phyllis enters the pub and sidles up to Percy, who refuses to buy her a drink. She tells Jack that his father-in-law is at the Charity Shop, and that he and Emily are getting along "like a house on fire." Percy's eyebrows shoot up at this information, and he hurriedly drinks his half, supposedly to relieve Emily for her lunch break.
Gail enters a realty office and shows the receptionist their new rental agreement. She asks why the rent increase was sprung on them without warning, but the receptionist doesn't deal with that side of the business, and refers her to Mr. Kendrew, who is busy with another client at the moment. Gail sits and waits.
At the Charity Shop, Mr. Shackleton is still waiting for Percy, and makes Emily very nervous when he begins to examine a straight razor. Percy arrives a moment later, and is very curt with Joss. Emily leaves for her lunch, and Joss offers to join her, much to Percy's disapproval.
Back at the realtor's office, Gail explains to Mr. Kendrew that the Cafe can't sustain a 400% rent increase, and wonders if a lower figure couldn't be negotiated. Mr. Kendrick indicates that he can't speak for the owner, but asks Gail what sort of figure she's thinking about.
Against some objections, Nicky finally begins to set the table for tea at the Platt household, while Martin puts baby Rosie into her carrier. Sally arrives at that moment, and confesses to Martin that she can't bear to be separated from Rosie. She apologizes for being so snappish that morning, and Martin jokingly asks if she's sure she's got the right baby this time!
Gail leaves the realty office and bumps into Mike Baldwin, who is perusing the adverts in the window. When she tells Mike she's afraid they're going to lose the Cafe, Mike offers to take her for a drink so they can talk.
At the Corner Shop, Phyllis tells Audrey that it's her last day with Des, and that she'll miss working for him. She asks about a job, but Audrey reminds her that Sally is just back from her maternity leave.
In a pub somewhere, Gail and Mike discuss the rent problem. Mike suggests that she find out who owns the cafe and deal directly with him, but Gail says that the realty company won't disclose that information. He also wonders why Gail is dealing with the rent increase, since Alma is the senior partner, and Gail tells him that Alma is thinking of moving on. He offers to see what he can do, and Gail gives him a copy of the lease. Mike asks Gail to keep his involvement a secret from Alma.
Jack and Vera bicker while she tries to vacuum. Jack jokingly enquires if the Queen is coming for tea, much to Vera's distress. "Go on, mock," she screams at him. Jack tells Vera that her father was "chasing" Emily Bishop in the pub at lunch, and Vera responds that that's not too surprising, given that he's a "red-blooded" man. "I thought he were blue-blooded" mutters Jack. Vera rushes off to the hairdresser, leaving an unhappy Jack to make her dad's tea.
Gail apologizes to Alma for her remarks earlier in the day, noting that she doesn't want to give the Cafe up without a fight. While not divulging her earlier meeting with Mike, Gail asks that they just continue working until they're forced to surrender the lease.
Back at the Rover's Return, Des and Jim discuss Steph's anticipated return the following day, while Percy tells Emily that Mr. Shackleton is after only one thing -- "to ingratiate himself into your favour." Emily scoffs, but Percy pushes his point by saying that even his son-in-law says as much, so she'd be well-advised not to fall for his flattery. Emily assures him that she's not that gullible. Audrey, meanwhile, complains to Betty about Sally "dumping" Rosie on Martin.
At the Webster's, Sally entertains Rosie with a stuffed toy when Kevin arrives home. After some discussion of their respective jobs, Sally suddenly bursts into tears and confesses to Kevin that she doesn't want to work. She wants to be at home, with Rosie.
Heather Morlan
Mr. Kendrew: STEPHEN TINDALL Lady Estate Agent:
GRETA MICHAELSON
Written by KEN BLAKESON Directed by JULIAN JARROLD
Wednesday (3210, Monday 8 April 1991)
It's the morning of the day Steph is due back and Des has made sure that Phyllis has the place in top notch shape for her arrival. Phyllis is obviously very fond of Des and she takes more than a passing interest in the fact that Steph has seen fit to go off on her own, intimating that there is something wrong with her. When he tells Phyllis what a crackin' lass his wife is, she tells Des the way to keep her at home is babies!
At the Tilsley-Platt residence, Gail is on the phone telling Alma that she'll be a bit late in this morning, the reason being that David was a little fussy. Martin is a tad miffed that he can't be trusted to see to David, especially in light of the fact that Sally has just stopped the arrangement for him to look after Rosie. Gail takes a breath and assures him that it's not personal, only that Sally was missing her baby too much. He asks about the possibility of the cafe closing and Gail dismisses the idea until she can see what's to be done about it.
Sally is in the shop apologising to Audreh about for her change of heart. She just isn't ready to leave Rosie and return to work, she explains. Audreh says she understands and not to worry, she will find a replacement. Phyllis happens in and stops to admire the baby. She also opines that the Barnes' wouldn't be taking separate vacations if they had one of those!
In the charity shop, Joss is merrily listening to old records while talking to Ruby and Emily about the music of the good old days. He claims Al Bowley (?) died in the line of fire as he was conducting his orchestra at the time of his death, keeping up the spirits of the fighting men. Percy walks in, just in time to hear this piece of trivia and his snort belies his skepticism. Joss continues with the revelation that he himself once shaved a man while the bombs were dropping, prompting Percy to remark, "I don't know how anyone can listen to that man!" before taking his leave. Joss reckons Percy's problem is that his hat is too tight, it cuts off the blood flow to his brain!
At the airport, Des catches sight of Steph hobbling down the terminal alongside a very good looking man who is helping her with her luggage. The other man is Alan, someone Steph met at the lodge and he was kind enough to give her a hand with her trolley. After introductions, Alan cheerfully suggests that Des join them for the next ski trip and bids them goodbye. Des eyes the other man suspiciously as he walks away then turns to Steph with a questioning look. She tells him very curtly not to be daft!
In the cafe, Deidre has just enjoyed a meal and is complimenting Alma on what good value it was for the money. Alma makes a remark about that circumstance being short-lived, prompting Deirdre to ask if the cafe is putting up its prices. Alma tells her more like putting up the shutters and explains about the rent increase. Gail happens by and puts in a word about not calling it quits yet which Alma dismisses as Gail deluding herself.
As Des and Steph drive up in front of their house, she asks him what kind of shape the place is in. He tells her he can't lie, that he didn't clean it. She says she can't bear to go in, in that case, but he insists - her holiday is over, it's now time to face reality. With that, he sweeps her into his arms and carries her into the house. She can't even open her eyes to look at first but when she does, she is chuffed to see how clean it is. He happily ports her upstairs so they can celebrate her return.
Back in the charity shop, Joss and Emily are dancing the tango to the strains of another old record as Angie and Ruby look on in amusement. "The mating dance of the scorpion" he tells her. Emily is a bit flustered by the attention and registers a girlish protests as Joss whisks her around. Percy walks in and is shocked to see what is going on. He immediately places himself between the couple with the intent of cutting in. Unfortunately, he is too rough in pushing poor Joss back and the other man falls to the floor, hitting his head on a shelf on the way down. Percy is quite alarmed and shouts to Ruby to call for an ambulance.
As an unconscious Joss is loaded into the ambulance, Jack is trying to glean what happened to him. Percy stands silently by while Emily sputters an explanation of sorts. She avoids mentioning Percy's role in the accident. Jack seems genuinely concerned about the old man and when he goes off to break the news to Vera, Percy volunteers to accompany Joss to the hospital.
Des and Steph are in bed, glowing in the aftermath of their reunion, when he asks if she has any confessions to make. She turns the tables on him, asking if he has. He surprises her by admitting that indeed, he did have a woman in during her absence. She braces herself to hear the rest of his confession but he lets her off the hook, admitting that it was Phyllis, who did the charring.
At Ingram's, Jackie tries to drag Mike away from his desk to go and have some lunch with her but he won't budge. There is no time, he tells her, deals to be made. She is worried that he is just like Peter was and expresses her fear that he will end up like Peter. He tells her to plan something nice for the next weekend and he will make the time for it. She is consoled a little by the prospect and kisses him lightly before going off to lunch on her own. As soon as she leaves, Mike picks up the phone to book an appointment with the property manager for the Cafe. He makes arrangements to discuss a deal, saying that he wants it kept in the strictest confidence.
Des is now bringing Steph coffee in bed and she is lapping up the attention when he happens to notice some writing on her cast. Deciphering the Italian inscription, he concludes that she has something to hide. She becomes indignant when he accuses her and they are at war again.
In the Rovers, Jack is expressing his remorse about Joss' condition to Ivy. He feels bad because he has wished him ill. Ivy comforts him, saying that she is also guilty of having wished people ill at various times. When Jack asks her if that isn't contrary to her faith, she abruptly changes the subject.
At the hospital, Emily and Percy are going to visit Joss when they encounter Vera in the corridor. Vera blames Emily for her father's condition, hasn't she already had one funeral this year! Emily is sheepish, still not exposing Percy's role in the mishap and listens intently when Vera talks about a transfusion. Percy volunteers that he has "Type O' blood, the blood of the Yeoman of England" and would be happy to donate for Joss. Vera rebukes the offer, telling him that Joss' blood group is "Type A. Yours is no good, you see!" she tells him with the secret satisfaction that she and Joss have "Royal blood".
Quitting time at the factory now and Jackie is on her way home to start cooking Mike a "special" meal. He isn't ready to leave just yet, he tells her but will be along later. She tells him not to stay too long and goes out the door. Again, he makes a clandestine phone call the minute she closes the door, this time to Gail. Reaching Martin at the other end, he pretends to be a realty agent. As Gail takes the call, Martin stands by, listening keenly. Mike hints that he may have some good news for her and they covertly set up a meeting for the following day to discuss matters. When they end the call, Martin asks about it mildly but Gail tries to put him off so he loses his cool. He knows it was Baldwin and he doesn't think she should be having any dealings with the man, "that snake in the grass" as Martin calls him. Gail becomes defensive, telling Martin that she must do what she can to save the cafe and that it's not for Martin to concern himself with, anyway!
Ruby Mottran ANN RYE Alan JAMES McMARTIN
Writer JULIAN ROACH
Thursday (3211, Wednesday 10 April 1991)
Friday (3212, Friday 12 April 1991)
Martin is up very early this morning, agitating over the deal Gail is making with Mike Baldwin. When she gets up they argue about Mike's possible motives for helping out. Gail figures he must feel guilty about the way he treated Alma but Martin wonders why he doesn't then deal directly with Alma instead of doing it behind her back. Because, as Gail points out, he knows that Alma would rather drown than accept help from him! And why the new name then, Martin wonders - instead of "Weatherfield Estates", the name on the contract is "Alcazar Holdings". "How should I know?" Gail cries. All she knows is she can now keep her job and that's all she needs to know! Martin thinks she is being altogether too trusting about the situation.
At the Duckworths, breakfast table, Joss is getting the royal treatment from Vera, which includes two sausages to Jack's one. Jack protests but Vera points out, as Joss has been for a walk, he's had more exercise than Jack. Miffed, Jack brings up his doubts about Vera and Joss, relationship again. Besides the fact that their blood groups are different, he says they are different as night and day. "It's in the breeding - like with the GGs", he says. "Joss here is a sprinter, and you", (meaning Vera) "are more like one of them that dumps their rider and the first fence" Vera and her father are unimpressed with Jack's theory. In the face of Jack's skepticism, Joss says, "There's nothing so certain as uncertainty". Vera heartily agrees.
At the Barnes', Steph beseeches Phyllis to go to the chemist's and buy some tissues for her. They'd be cheaper at the Kabin but Steph insists the high altitudes from her ski trip has made her skin tender and she needs the softer version, sold only at the chemist's. As Phyllis reluctantly gets her coat, Steph suggests that since she's going to the chemist's *anyway*, she could pick up her holiday snaps for her while she's there. The cleaning lady reminds her that she already gave "Desmond" the ticket for them last night in the pub. "Get them anyway", Steph implores. She's betting that Des will have forgot all about them by now, hoping at least.
Gail arrives at the cafe late but when she shows Alma their new lease from Alcazar Holdings with the rent being reduced from the original rate of £600 to £350 a month, Alma is too happy for words. She wonders what on earth Gail could have said to make them change their minds. All Gail can think is that they decided £350 was better than nothing at all! Anyway, who cares if it means they can now keep the café!!
In Mike's office, he's busy finalising arrangements with Weatherfield Estates on the phone. Don't post it, he tells them - he'll pick it instead. And, he doesn't want his name on it - it's got to say "Alcazar Holdings". Just as he closes the call, Jackie comes in asking about their wedding date. "How does this Saturday sound?" he asks lightheartedly. She laughs off the idea, saying she needs at least a couple months to plan. He picks July and she suggests the 5th. Looking in his planner, he notes that it's her birthday and joking about the money he'll save on flowers, writes, "Happy Birthday Mrs. Baldwin".
Phyllis returns from the chemist's remarking, "Scandalous, scandalous!" as she comes through the door. Steph looks anxious and asks if she managed to get the photos. But Phyllis was talking about the price of the tissues, 93p compared with 60p that the Kabin charges! "Never mind the tissues - did you get the photos?" Steph asks. It was too late, Des had already picked them up, she says. Steph's disappointment is evident so Phyllis offers to go to the bookie's for them. "Don't bother", she replies with a sinking heart.
Emily and Deirdre are in the pub for lunch when Betty complains that she's rushed off her feet as Jack hasn't turned up yet. Emily suggests that Jack has been under a strain trying to cope with his new father-in-law. Percy, who has been standing at the bar waiting for service, overhears and interprets Emily's remark as apportioning blame to him for Joss, accident. He's already apologised, he says. He even offered to donate his blood! When Audreh comes in and orders a drink, telling Betty to get one herself, Percy turns his attentions to complaining about Audreh being served before him. He accuses Betty of running a speakeasy. "I see your game - you get no service here unless you put your hand in your pocket for the staff!" he complains. He asks to see Bet but Betty says she's in the back on the phone and if she doesn't find Duckworth soon, *she'll* be handing in her notice!
Jack is nowhere near the pub at this moment. He combs his way through an entirely different neighbourhood until he finds what he's looking for - the blood donor clinic. Timidly entering the place, he sits down to wait until the doctor becomes available. The man beside him recognises Jack from the Rovers and Jack remembers him as a co-worker of Eddie Ramsden. When Jack explains that he isn't actually there to donate blood, he draws sharp glances from the waiting donors and the other man takes him to task for it. It's the pain, Jack nervously explains - he can't abide it. "It's nothing to the pain them that needs it's in!" the other man counters. He doesn't have the time - he's late for work as it is. "It only takes half an hour." As Jack fumbles for another excuse, the man points out that he may need blood himself someday, especially in a job like his with the likes of Eddie Ramsden coming in and breaking glass! A little less sure of himself now, Jack weakly counters that Eddie Ramsden never comes in anymore.
Deirdre has dropped in to see Steph. She asks if Des is still acting jealous over her holiday. Steph confirms the fact and Deirdre laughs as she recalls being in similar circumstances once - the time she returned from Majorca and Bet showed her fiancé her holiday snaps. "Billy Walker had quite a temper and when he saw Pedro's arm around me I thought he was going to kill me!" she chuckles. Steph takes small comfort from the anecdote.
In the blood clinic, Jack is now lying stretched out on one of the gurneys, evidently having succumbed to the persuasions of his friend in the waiting room. As the doctor passes by, Jack waves him down to ask the burning question of whether Joss can be R Vera's dad. When the doctor tells him it is possible, Jack figures on not wasting any more of his time here. To his disappointment, however, the procedure has already begun and now he's stuck waiting for the bag to fill up with his blood!
Alma pops into the Corner Shop to tell Audreh the good news about signing the lease at the café. "She's got a good head for money, your daughter", she happily relates. "I don't know where she gets that from!" Audreh laughs.
Tea time for the Duckworths and as Jack, Vera and Joss are gathered around the table, a sullen Jack doesn't seem to have much of an appetite. (I got a look at the food and I can't say I blame him - Vera was ladling out big sloppy servings of what looked like wet hamburger, alongside mountains of mashed potato and mashed parsnip!) Vera accuses him of eating too many hotpots at the Rovers but then she notices the band-aid in the crook of his arm. She demands to know what he's been up to so he lies that he was pecked by a pigeon. She believes he's been pecked all right, only not by a pigeon! Joss says he can guess, Jack has been donating blood. Vera immediately says she knows what brought that on and Jack's entreaties that he was being public-spirited fall on deaf ears. "So what did you find out then?" she demands. Jack relates that it's all very complicated but the doctor says it, s possible Joss *isn't* related. Joss expresses his disappointment, saying he had hoped he could trust Jack and Vera jumps at him for upsetting her poor father. "You're a heartless swine, you are! A pig! Ignoramus!"
Des comes in from work and is greeted by a somewhat jumpy Steph. When he ignores her query about his workday, she asks if he's looked at her holiday photos. "Any reason why I shouldn't?" he asks sarcastically. "Des, it's not what it seems", she pleads. "You had this all planned, didn't you?" he accuses. "Didn't think I'd find out, did you?" She maintains they were only larking about but Des doesn't buy it for a minute. He's recognised Clive Parnell, her old Pomme Delite boss, in the photos and he's sure it was all a set up. Steph swears she didn't know he would be there but Des says he knows what the odds are, working in a betting shop as he does!
Betty is incredulous when Jack excuses his absence from work earlier in the day by saying he was doing his "civic duty". She guesses the real reason for his trip to the blood clinic and though he points out that she may one day be the recipient of his generosity, he grudgingly admits that his visit left him none the wiser. "Ah well, at least some good came of it, Luvvie - after all, you might save my life someday!" she replies ironically.
At the bar, Emily offers to buy Percy a drink for helping out in the charity shop all day. He gratefully says he'll have a large brandy and though she's surprised it's not his usual, half a bitter, she orders the drink along with a sweet sherry for herself. Percy says his is a small sacrifice, that he's only too glad to help out, but Emily insists that it's people like him that keep health services going. Jack offers that blood donors also do their bit and when Emily expresses surprise at his being one of that ilk, Betty chimes in that he doesn't like to advertise the fact.
Des has packed his bags and as he now prepares to leave, Steph pleads again for him to believe her. Tearfully, she says she loves him and that the only reason she didn't want him to see the photos was to avoid "this". Unmoved by her entreaties, he makes his way toward the door. "Please Des! You've *got* to believe me - I love you!" she begs. He gives her a cold snarl, "Well then - you've left it a bit late!" he says, slamming the door firmly behind him.
Anita Bélanger
Dr. Bannerman - TYRONE HUGGINS Blood Donor
- ROD ARTHUR
Written by PHIL WOODS Directed by DAVID RICHARDS
Monday (3213, Monday 15 April 1991)
It's morning. Lace curtains twitch. Steph looks out on the morning activities of the Street.
Vera helps Joss downstairs but Percy is already across the doorstep with crime prevention flyers and an offer of his services to Joss. Joss hushes Vera's snarky comments, saying he bears Percy no grudge. Vera's gob continues with remarks about self defense classes. Joss offers to cook a meal for Jack and Vera and sets out a shopping list for Percy who seems a bit surprised that his offer was taken up!
Tracy wants desperately to go to a pop concert this Friday. Everyone is going, why can't she? Deirdre feels 14 is too young but offers to take her. Appearing at a concert with your mother would be the ultimate in geekdom! Tracy argues that she doesn't kick up a fuss when her mother wants to go out with Phil (And the comparison with this entirely different situation would be what?) Deirdre gets accused of not letting her daughter grow up and in the timeless gesture of all 14 year olds who are disgusted and utterly frustrate with a parent, Tracy storms out in a snit!
Phyllis has stopped by but is told by Stephanie there is no work for her today, not even Des's shirts because he's packed up his things and left. Steph also doesn't care where he's gone and she's on her way out as well. Phyllis correctly deduces that this upset is over the holiday snaps, tormented he was over them. Steph snaps, too, Tormented and Demented! she's in fine form, castigating the lad in his absence and listing all his past, current and future faults, the greatest of which these days is jealousy, looking to make mountains out of molehills where there were none to begin with! Phyllis tries to make peace, telling Steph that Des loves her and she could go a long way to find a fella as nice as Des. Steph hisses that that is exactly what she did, in his opinion! She is tired of everyone being on Des's side, wishing she could have a sympathetic ear as well. Phyllis follows her outside to her waiting taxi, and jumps to a conclusion that Steph is going to see a divorce solicitor. She warns the young woman against the evils of solicitors once they get their hands on a situation but Steph says nowt, neither admits nor denies if that is where she's heading. Des comes round the corner as the taxi drives off and he doesn't look happy.
Curly strolls the aisles of his kingdom. Angie is there doing the shopping and needs a bit of coordination with him on the shared items of the list. He's not particularly bothered what kind of beans she gets, could she please not call him Curly there at work (Oh on your bike, she teases, oh all right i'll stoop to calling you Norman if you like) and he is warned about using up all her hair gel (which i haven't seen on his head in weeks, that hair is flopping all over his eyes!) Raquel watches the whole encounter with suspicion and is very catty about Angie's homemade (designed) clothes. Vera admires Angie's style however but Raquel takes no notice, and proceeds to interrupt the intrepid shoppers. Poor Curly has a lot of 'splaining to do and i get the feeling it's a regular thing these days. We next see them later in the afternoon in the staff room with him defending himself further. He explains that this is the first normal house he's ever lived in, after the convent-like atmosphere of Mrs. Bishop's and Vera's gob spouting all his business everywhere. (what about his sojourn with Shirley and living on his own in Alf's flat after? Continuity, people!) Raquel decides too much freedom can be just as bad as not enough. He realizes she has something against Angie which Raquel admits, "She flirts!" Curly morosely repeats that Angie doesn't flirt with him, girls never do! And anyway, he isn't attracted to women with brains. Ooops! Raquel instantly takes this the wrong way, assuming Curly is calling her a bimbo and clatters off. Curly sighs. (he's good at that!)
Joss and Phyllis share a drink in the Rovers, much to Jack's chagrin. He has a moan to Betty who reminds him that the accident could have been more serious. Yeah, trust Percy Sugden to only do half a job! LOL Phil and Deirdre are discussing Tracy. Phil doesn't see why Tracy shouldn't go to the concert, seeing the marketing aspect of it all (hear the tape, see the video, attend the concert). He tells her he was scalping tickets outside such concerts when he was 14 (why doesn't that surprise me!) Stephanie hops up to return her plate to the bar but doesn't tell a curious Phyllis where she went that morning. Phyllis speculates the rest of the day to whomever will listen that Steph is been to a solicitor. Joss buys her another drink but they are interrupted by Percy who had been trying at number 9 to deliver Joss's groceries. He is not best pleased to see Joss living it up it in the pub when he was supposed to be in his sick bed recovering. Percy realizes he's been duped and used and tells Joss he can carry his own groceries back from Mrs. Bishop's!
This is one of those scenes that seem thrown in just because the actors are contracted for so many episodes a week, and the scene has nothing to do whatsoever with today's storylines. It's in the cafe and Alma and Gail are stirring pots and flipping eggs. Gail wants to make improvements to the cafe to draw in more customers though a bank loan might be needed. Alma is just happy and eternally grateful to have her home secured. There is a point to the scene, in the end. Andy has sold Tracy a cheap poster advertising the concert and seems to be getting her to take names at school for anyone else that wants one. It's a cheap knock off of the official poster that will be sold at the concert, apparently but i'd like to know how he made them! No computer, no printing press, no lovely box of 64 Crayola crayons with the sharpener in the back of the box!
Steph goes home but who's waiting in the chair with a face like a thundercloud? Des! Ready for the next round. Steph thinks Phyllis called him but no, she didn't tell Phyllis why Des left. Des begins and continues on and on about Clive's presence on her holiday and it doesn't' matter how much she tells him that nothing happened. She accuses him of wanting to believe she ran out on him. He's not giving in, throwing her used air ticket in her face that has Clive's phone number written on it (in his handwriting, not hers, i might add) Stephanie loses her temper altogether now at realizing that Des has rooted through her handbag. He is not sorry and cites all the damning evidence against her, no matter what she says to the contrary. The single holiday sans husband, the suggestive notes on her cast, the photo of her and Clive and now the phone number! Phyllis arrives in the middle of this all and in her own interfering way, tries to make peace by telling Des that Steph has been to a solicitor and if he's not careful he'll lose his wife. I guess she hopes the news will shock him into realizing they've let things go too far.
At home, Joss witters on about his fine name and reputation while half heartedly stirring something on the cooker. Poor Jack ends up defending his job as good honest work after Joss looks down on it. (And when did a Barber have to put on airs over a cellarman?) Jos brags about his past successes and fortunes working for and living with the aristocracy, receiving £50 tips for his skills. (oh right. And how many rich people would stay rich if they gave the man that shaved their face that much money which was a fortune in the old days, on a regular basis. This man is sucking everyone one in, i tell you no lies!) Jack perks up, however, as Jack is wont to do, at the idea of so much money but he wonders what happened, where did all the fortune go? Well, Joss quickly recovers, when you live with the aristocracy, you spend like them too! But he had Respect with a Capital R! All this bragging leaves him weary and he shuffles off to lay down (before he blows his cover no doubt) and leaves jack with the orders to peel a few spuds. Jack takes up the magazine that Joss was leafing through, a magazine all about the lives of the Rich and Famous.
Back at No1, Tracy is still whining. Deirdre assesses just who "everyone at school" is who she says is going to the concert and finds out that it doesn't include Tracy's closest buddies, Debbie and Lyndsay! (Are you surprised! My mother used to check with the mothers of all my friends too to see if they were "everybody" who were going to do something she didn't want me to do! LOL) Phil pops in and tosses a new tape of one of the concert bands to Tracy as compensation for missing the concert. Tracy has the grace to thank him but goes off to do her homework. Phil spies the unofficial poster that Tracy got from Andy and when the explanation is done, tells Deirdre that Andy could be in a lot of trouble. It's not illegal to copy official concert promotions but the official producers won't be too impressed either.
Des and Steph are still bashing. She tells him she hasn't been to a solicitor no matter what "Miss Marple" thinks, she went to see the girls at work to find that sympathetic ear. They are quieter now, exhausted and fed up no doubt. Nothing is resolved so Stephanie decides to come clean and totally honest with Des about everything. Get a drink first!
Betty puts the run to a few cocky youngsters who were trying to drink without valid ID proving their age. Jack still has the magazine and is now starry eyed about living like the other half lives and getting £50 tips for himself. Curly is in the booth defending himself with that broken record to Raquel. He insists he and Angie don't fancy one another and just then Angie sits down and wants to confirm that she's cooking dinner for the three of them later in the week. Raquel feels a fool now. Curly wanted to arrange a nice dinner so that Raquel could get to know Angie, confident that that is the only reason Raquel can't stop her jealousy. Vera arrives and Jack tells her about a driver and housekeeping job he's seen advertised in that magazine. He wants the two of them to try for an interview at the posh house that's hiring. Vera's well aware that they would be much out of their element, they aren't qualified. Jack thinks they could find out all they need to know from Joss who might actually be of some use for a change! (Anyone think Joss is going to slip up and blow his cover on this one? Methinks Vera wouldn't see it anyway!)
Steph tells Des that she told Clive from day one that she wasn't interested. He left her alone for a few days but then showed up by climbing to her room from the outside balcony. She strenuously objected but he persisted through the rest of the holidays though got nowhere with her. Even on the last day he wrote his number on her ticket but she never asked for it. Des finally admits he believes her. Des apologizes and they finally kiss and make up. He lifts her to carry her upstairs but then he threatens grievous bodily harm to Clive and she jumps down and hollers at him yet again, he'll never grow up!!!
Writer - PAUL ABBOTT Director - RICHARD SIGNY
Tuesday (3214, Wednesday 17 April 1991)
Angie tackles Curly at the breakfast table about the idea of getting Raquel to come to dinner. He seems reluctant and she supposes it's because Raquel really doesn't like her, even though Curly strenuously denies it. She's only "shy", he tells his housemate. Angie doesn't buy that one for a minute - Raquel's a beauty queen, after all - hardly the wallflower type. Curly promises he'll see what he can do.
Jack has got hold of a publication for domestic positions and now as he combs through the adverts, he muses about a new life for himself and Vera. There is one drawback to domestic service, he notes to Joss - he'd have to spend more time with R Vera! One of the ads, a husband and wife vacancy for chauffeur-housekeeper catches his eye and he's especially interested when he reads that expenses are covered if invited for an interview!
The morning after learning what *really* happened between Steph and Clive Parnell at that ski resort Des is out for blood. Steph tells him he's making too much of it - everyone flirts, she points out, even he does! To Des, mind, however, flirting is one thing and climbing in hotel windows is something else. Parnell needs to be taught a lesson and Des reckons he's as good a teacher as any!
Phil runs into Andy on the street and asks him if he knows what (or rather *who*) he's up against distributing pirate posters. Andy tries to blow him off - he's supplying a demand at half the price and he doesn't see a problem. Phil warns him to be careful - the people who paid for the distribution rights to the posters might take a different view!
In Bettabuys', Curly tries to persuade Raquel to come to dinner tonight. She's very cool on the idea as she thinks Angie will probably cook "summat foreign". Besides, she tells him, her cat needs worming. Vera happens along just as Curly is called away and Raquel tells her about the invitation. Vera readily offers that Angie is "different" from them, reinforcing Raquel's own reservations.
In the pub, Jack tells Joss that he's decided that he and Vera will be going to apply for the job he saw advertised. Joss says Vera might object to the idea but Jack tells him *he* makes the decisions in the family. Joss doesn't agree that's the case, not from what he can see. Jack says that's only because Joss doesn't know what goes on "behind closed doors". "Not much, according to R Vera!", retorts Joss.
Phil Jennings spots Alf in the pub and goes over to have a word with him. He hopes this election will be a "nice clean fight", he says. He would hate to see people's private lives being dragged into the arena. Alf answers that in a "ideal world" there would be no cause for worry but he hints that it's not such a "ideal world".
Deirdre has dropped in at the Barnes' to see how Steph has been getting on with her broken leg. Steph takes the opportunity to sound off about Des, "mad jealousy". Men turn into "a bunch of wallies" once they're married, she says. Deirdre jokes that she knows all about husbands, thank you! Becoming serious again, she wonders if Steph's tendency to play games may have contributed to Des, jealousy
In the pub again, Des has had a few drinks by now but, as Betty points out, nothing to eat. He refuses the offer of a hot pot and orders another pint before going to the phone to ring Clive Parnell. Posing as "Jack Newton", he tells Parnell he is interested in doing business with him. They arrange a meeting for eight o'clock that evening and the dye is cast. With an air of satisfaction, he tells Jack his plan and where the duel is due to take place - at the Gallery Pub.
In the cafe, Tracy is upset when Andy gives her the brush off. He doesn't want to talk to her since she blabbed to her mother's boyfriend about where she got the poster. "I didn't know it was a secret", she protests. "It's not now!" he retorts.
Angie is in the Corner Shop getting the ingredients she needs for tonight's meal. Steph hobbles in looking for "something special" to prepare for Des and Angie tells her what she is making, Hungarian Goulash, is "dead simple". Unconvinced, Steph opts for something from the freezer instead. Alf asks Steph if she's on the electoral registry but she says she doesn't know. "I'm soliciting your support for the election", he tells her. "I thought soliciting was against the law!" she cracks.
Back at Bettabuys', Curly is still trying to convince Raquel that her cat need not be wormed *tonight*. She comes clean with the real reason she doesn 't want to have dinner with Angie - she thinks Angie fancies him! Curly says the idea is ridiculous and points out that Angie has a boyfriend anyway. Raquel apparently wasn't aware of that fact and now that she knows, she finally agrees to come, much to Curly's relief.
Jack wanders into Bettabuys and finds Vera stacking shelves. He tells her she is to take tomorrow off - they are going to have a day away. She's delighted at the notion until he tells her the reason - they are going to interview for the domestics' jobs. Over her objections, he explains that the interview isn't the point, it's having a day off with expenses paid!
Des is enjoying the special meal Steph has thawed and cooked for him and wonders what it's "in aid of". Just to celebrate her being home and their making up, she tells him - and there's cheesecake for afters! Excusing himself from the table, Des says he won't be having dessert just now - there 's something he has to see to. Surprised, she asks where he's going but he refuses to say, only telling her he'll be back before she has a chance to miss him!
The goulash is ready and Angie has the table all set in anticipation of Curly and Raquel's arrival. Ben idly wonders why she's invited Raquel for dinner since (it's his impression) she doesn't think very highly of her. Angie denies having negative feelings about Raquel and cringes when he reminds her that she said Raquel was "as thick as a 3-B pencil"! Curly and Raquel arrive and Angie warmly welcomes them, complimenting Raquel on her 60s style dress. Unfortunately, Raquel assumes Angie is implying that the dress is old and an awkward moment follows with Angie trying to clarify. Curly quells the misunderstanding by quickly suggesting a drink.
The Duckworths are home now and Jack is on the phone with Mrs. Maxwell-Glover asking for an interview tomorrow. When she agrees, he ends the call by telling her they'll make an early start from Southampton in the morning. Vera is appalled at the lie. He explains that they'll get more money for expenses by saying they have travelled farther. Unimpressed, she calls him "twisted". "You'd make a corkscrew look straight, you would!"
Less paranoid now, Raquel seems to be enjoying the dinner now. She compliments Angie's "stew" as she helps herself to seconds. Angie starts to correct her that it's Hungarian Goulash but catches on when Curly reiterates that it's "stew". Noting Raquel's height and figure, Angie suggests she would make a good model. To Raquel's surprise, she makes the tentative suggestion that she could have her model some of her collection.
In the pub after dinner, Vera tells Jack they could be "done for fraud" for what he's planning. Jack remains nonplused, telling her the middle classes are "expected to fiddle expenses"! He warns her that she's in danger of preventing his "upward mobility"!
Steph comes into the pub in search of her husband and is shocked when Jack tells her what Des is up to. Jack says he should think she'd be flattered but Steph rushes out again protesting that she doesn't want "fellas" fighting over her - "especially not Des!"
After dinner, Angie has Raquel trying on some of her designs and everyone is impressed with the effect. To Raquel's delight, Angie proposes that she model for her in the upcoming student fashion show.
At the Gallery, Des has located Clive Parnell and now angrily confronts him. Clive tries to talk Des out of a fight, but seeing he won't be dissuaded, follows him outside to the street. Once outside, despite the other man's warning that he's trained in unarmed combat, Des throws a punch. A swipe from Clive knocks Des off his feet but he staggers up again and takes aim once more. Just as Clive knocks him down again, a taxi pulls up and Steph jumps out. As she rushes over she screams for them to stop. Clive asserts that he wasn't the one who wanted to fight - it was her "idiot husband"! Infuriated, she screams that her husband is *not* an idiot! Furthermore, she tells him, she wouldn't be interested in *him* if he were "the last man on earth"!! He begins to walk back into the pub but turns around to answer glibly, "Sweetheart, if I *were* the last man on earth, you'd be at the end of a very long queue!"
Ignoring the comment, Steph stoops on the sidewalk to cradle her wounded husband. Tenderly, she calls him an "idiot" and tells him he's the only man for her. He's gratified to hear it and when she offers to kiss his injuries better, he coyly suggests that he thinks he was also hurt "below the belt"!
Anita Belanger
Joss Shackleton: HAROLD GOODWIN Clive Parnell:
CHRIS HUMPHREYS Ben Williams: PAUL WARRINER
Written by JOHN STEVENSON Directed by RICHARD SIGNY
Wednesday (3215, Friday 19 April 1991)
The day following Des' scrap with the ill-intentioned Clive, our hero is basking in the attentions lavished on him by Steph. He is slightly scuffed but now firmly convinced that there was nothing between her and Clive.
At the Duckworths', Joss is singing gloom and doom about the fraud Jack and Vera are about to commit by going through with the interview for positions as domestics. Over his protests, Jack argues that it's only a bit of fun and tries to persuade Vera to call in sick for the day so they can be relaxed when they arrive. Joss contends that this will only compound the lie but Vera finally relents and has Jack call Holdsworth for her. She isn't prepared however for the excuse Jack offers, "Her gallstones kept her up all night"!
Andy and Steve discuss the business of Andy hawking the knock off posters. Steve warns his brother that Phil Jennings won't be pleased if he hears that Andy is still doing it but Andy doesn't seem concerned.
At Bettabuys, Curly is talking to Raquel about modeling for Angie in the poly fashion show when Reg comes along to complain about Vera taking off sick. He doesn't believe the gallstones story for a minute.
Vera doesn't think it's very believable either, as she tells Jack. Why couldn't he have said she had a cold, for gawd's sake? He thought something slightly out of the ordinary would be just the ticket, he tells her.
The Barnes are busy affectionately horsing around when Phyllis walks in. She is delighted to see that they have made up and are now getting along so well.
At the Rovers at lunchtime, Curly asks Joss how Vera is. The old man is oblivious and answers that she was fine when he last saw her. Betty chimes in from across the bar that Jack also took the day off, for "urgent personal business" he said. That's all the convincing Curly needs... He asks Joss just what the Duckies are up to but Joss flims out of it, saying he isn't their keeper. Curly grumbles, "Gall-flamin'-stones!"
After a leisurely drive, Jack and Vera arrive at their destination, a mansion in the country. Vera is getting cold feet and proposes that they find a nice tearoom and forget about the job interview but Jack wants to go through with it. It'll be a lark, he convinces her as he rings the bell. He also argues that although these folk have a posh house and a flash car, *she's* got something they haven't - royal blood! Vera concedes the point and holds her head up.
In Bettabuys again, Angie interrupts Raquel's shelf-stacking to measure her arms when Reg happens along again and objects. Looks like Reg does not want Raquel to participate in this fashion show, much to Angie's and her disappointment.
Seated in Mrs. Maxwell-Glover's elegant study, Vera is explaining her cooking skills... "I'm alright with a chip pan but I don't go in for any of this 'novel' cuisine" she says. When Mrs. MG asks about their former employer, the Duckworths get their signals crossed and each answer with the name of their respective employer. Jack makes a good recovery by correcting, "Sir Alec and Lady Gilroy-Holdsworth".
Back at Bettabuys, "Sir Reg" is expressing his objections about the fashion show to Curly. He doesn't want Raquel to get "ideas" and feels she will be too easily dazzled by the so-called glamour.
Mrs. Maxwell-Glover has now completed her interview with Jack and Vera and happily pays out their (inflated) "expenses" of £30. When she asks for a number she can reach them at, she comments that it's not a Southampton number and Jack explains it away by stating that they are staying with a friend in the "quaint little town of Wetherfield" at the moment. Mrs. MG suddenly remembers the matter of references and Jack stumbles for a minute before saying that he will send them on by post.
We next see young Andy, out in the street flogging posters. From within a shop behind him, he is approached by a man who doesn't look too happy. The man examines one of the posters before ripping it in half and when Andy protests, he grabs him around the neck and threatens him for impinging on his business. Andy looks very helpless and we wonder how he will get out of this jam but luckily, Phil Jennings happens along. Phil tells the other man, Jimmy Charlton, that Andy is just a kid who doesn't know any better and that he'll sort him out. Charlton reluctantly releases Andy with a warning to watch his step. Once out of danger, Andy tries to recover his pride as he tells Phil that he could have handled himself. (Not likely!)
At home again, the Duckworths discuss the events of the day from very different points of view. Jack is chuffed to be up 30 quid but Vera feels guilty because they ripped off Mrs. Maxwell-Glover and she seemed like such a nice lady, "not stuck-up at all". Joss informs them that Curly visited while they were out but not to worry, he didn't give them away. Jack wonders what Joss told Curly and isn't best pleased to hear that he invited him to come back later.
As he reports for work in the Rovers, Betty asks Jack what he and Vera have been up to today. Jack is evasive but Betty guesses the truth, they are looking for another job. She reckons there's only two reasons Jack would shave twice in one day and he wouldn't have Vera along for one of them!
Phil Jennings seems to have taken a shine to Andy and makes him an offer to come work for him. Andy is pleasantly surprised but says he'll have to clear it with his parents first. Phil promises that he can teach Andy all about being in business!
In the Rovers again, Curly is telling Angie about the Duckworths' latest adventure and that he thinks they are out of their league this time. She asks about their son out of curiosity and Curly asserts that he is even worse. "Jack's harmless but Terry has a real mean streak!" he tells her. Raquel enters the pub in tears and tells Curly that Mr. Holdsworth will not permit her to take part in the fashion show. He must do something, she tells him!
Vera comes in and tells Jack that Mrs. MG just rang to say that they have got the job. Jack is elated until Vera points out that she wants references - from "Sir Alec and Lady Gilroy-Holdsworth"!
Mrs. Maxwell-Glover SALLY FAULKNER Jimmy Charlton
SAM WEBSTER
Writer: ADELE ROSE
Thursday (3216, Monday 22 April 1991)
Alf is in full campaign mode this morning and pounding on doors. Alec's to be precise. He's anxiously waiting for his new leaflets that are being printed by a mate of Alec's. Alec promises to pick up the leaflets after breakfast but Alf, in the throes of high blood pressure, hollers at Alec to do it now.
Joss pours the morning tea and takes the time to rake Jack over the coals to Vera (and Jack not even there to defend himself!). Jack shouldn't have put Vera through all this. Vera acknowledges it wasn't all Jack's fault, nobody forced her to go on the interview at the home of the Maxwell-Glover's. When asked why she went through with the interview, Vera sighs that the closes folk like her get to posh places like that is with their noses pressed up against the glass looking in. Nonsense! Joss tosses out. He's been in plenty and wasn't' impressed. Jack arrives and is told to call Mrs. M-G to turn down the job. He tries to get out of it, figuring the erstwhile employer will soon forget about them but Vera insists they should show the woman the courtesy of calling. jack admits he never expected to be offered the job and eventually grudgingly promises to call. Vera loses her temper and bitterly accuses Jack of building her hopes up and letting her down yet again.
Angie urges and flatters Curly into persuading Reg to let Raquel to model in the student fashion show. Reg is only on a power trip and is jealous of Curly having such an attractive girlfriend!
Alf is heading back down to the Rovers and seems to be regretting having Alec as his agent. But it's too late now and Audrey sighs with exasperation, knowing alf was probably lured by the promise of saving a bob or two. Alf at least has a good excuse, as legally candidates are only allowed to spend just so much money. Don is asked to pass out leaflets but is turned down. Andy comes in for a couple of steak and kidney pies and tells Audrey Liz will be away a little while longer. Phil is in the shop too (a busy spot!) and approaches Andy again about the job he offered the boy. Andy has to talk to his dad first and isn't optimistic about the outcome.
At the Rovers, Alf admires the leaflets but is upset that his posters aren't ready. Bet is not so admiring as she reads the message on the back which could be interpereted as a slur against a certain lady opponent, it endorses Alf's family values at the expense of the other candidates. An obvious slur against Deirdre who is the only single parent running! (This does not bode well!)
Curl scolds Vera over her fake illness which he had to cover for. Speccy-four-eyes (Reg) still thinks she had a gall stone attack But Reg's gurning face and snide tone to her, inquiring after her health, leaves no doubt as to his perception of the lie. Raquel is all upset about the fashion show and Curly is fed up with being all things to all people. He arranges to speak to Reg in private a bit later.
In a very realistic father and son scene, Andy approaches Jim in the shop. No there's no trouble and yes, he's eaten, he's just had a sausage roll (what happened to the frozen steak and kidney pie he just bought? Oh, continuity people...!) His father observes that there is something on Andy's mind, how does he know? Well he's known the boy from the minute he was born! Andy admits and gets to the point. He did want to talk to his father away from "Big Ears". There is a little discussion on the bonding of twins and Jim mentions that Andy was always the one with the wilder streak. Steve was always more sensible like his mother (Boy oh boy things are sure gonna change!!!) He's been offered a job from Phil Jennings. Jim doesn't say no outright and they chat about Andy's future, wanting to have a business of his own someday, be his own boss, and this will give him good experience. He is reminded by a bemused Jim of his wanting to join the Army. Andy smiles and says that was just to needle his dad, but he's grown up since then (LOL) There isn't an end result to this scene but it is apparent that evening at the Rovers that Jim wanted to talk to Phil first. They discuss Andy over a pint and Phil promises not to exploit the boy or interfere with his studies. He dare not, with Jim as a father defending his chick! On the provision that Jim talk it over with Liz, the men shake hands on it.
But back to the day's events. In the manager's office, Reg insists that Raquel cannot do any extra curricular modeling. She should have enough recognition as Miss Bettabuys while being able to have her feet planted firmly on the ground. He lays on the cods wallop thick, describing the slippery slope downhill from the catwalk to Page 3 type model in lacy garter belts and wet t-shirts (and seems to be enjoying the mental image of THAT!). Curly protests that Raquel wouldn't do that but Reg insists the lure of fame could be very powerful and he's doing this for her own good.
Jack is at work and seems rather bewildered. He asks Don how a small skirmish can explode into full scale warfare so quickly? Don shakes his head and figures that if they knew the answer to that, marriage guidance would go out of business. Aye... Aye they agree. Alec and Alf are discussing leaflet distribution routes and after a snide crack by Jack, Alec recruits Jack as dogsbody and makes him take leaflets on a route! Should have kept his mouth shut! Percy and Emily, exhausted from a morning pounding the pavement with Deirdre, come in for a restoring drink. Percy gets ahold of one of the leaflets and he and Emily realize the negative impact this is going to have on their candidate!
At number 1, Phil and Deirdre find an Alf leaflet that has been dropped through the letterbox. They too are astounded at the depths Alf has gone to (at the hands of Alec, though, really!) Deirdre is furious at the implications of the leaflet, it isn't her fault she's had two husbands give her the elbow! The leaflet also twists a few facts and Deirdre is prompted to defend her record to Phil. and it's hard and respectable work bringing up a child on your own as well! Will the public believe all this nonsense? Phil thinks they might and she should get even but Deirdre isn't one to sink to Alf and Alec's level but what to do? Well, Phil reckons if she were single, and he were so inclined, which neither of them are, they could get married and beat them at their own game but instead, he advises fighting fire with fire!
Angie arrives at the supermarket just in time for Curly to break the bad news. No fashion show for Raquel. Reg was adamant though he kept going on about wet tshirts and garter belts. Raquel is alarmed, she's not going to be wearing that sort.... is she? of course not, Angie assures her. Pity, though, observes Curly, the way his glasses were steaming up at the thought, it might have been the only way he would have let her but the Ego On Legs cannot be talked round.
Bet still doesn't believe in the tactics but Alec defends his methods and it turns out he's more interested in making sure Phil doesn't get the club open which will affect the business at the Rovers. So it's all about what's good for you then, not the electors? Of course not, not just that, but the best man happens to be Alf with his stellar record and wins over Deirdre who hasn't near the experience and is not more than a jumped up shopgirl! And if that benefits them in the end , so much the better!
Jack is home from his trek and rubbing his bare sore feet under Joss's nose. the old man strenuously objects but that's too bad isn't it!. Vera arrives home, complaining about her day and Joss again suddenly turns loving and supportive. Vera sighs longingly about the posh job they could have had and is angry when she finds out Jack hasn't called Mrs. M-G after all. Jack snaps back, that if it's that important, call her yourself. He's off back to the prison camp with clean socks in tow. He leaves and vera has a little cry on Joss's shoulder. The more she thinks about that job the more she would have liked it. But they've blown it, they have no references. Hmmmm....Joss has an idea.
In the pub that night, Phil and Deirdre come in and order champagne in anticipation of next week's victory. Phil turns the knife a little and tells Alec that, with the effects of Alf's leaflet, Deirdre is now the underdog and the British public love nothing better! Alec realizes this to be true and it's put him off his tod, much to the delight of Deirdre and Emily. Ken comes in and pledges his outrage and support for Deirdre who wants him to keep out of the controversy but Ken spots Alf and Alec and lays into them. A large loud argument ensues with various punters taking sides, physically and verbally. Deirdre and Bet try to diffuse the situation but it doesn't calm down quickly. Even after Bet lays down the law a few sarcastic words are flung. Joss comes in a bit later and tells Jack that he thinks they should go for that job. It can be more than just a dream after all! (What's he got up his sleeve?)
Writer - ADELE ROSE Director - BRIAN MILLS
Friday (3217, Wednesday 24 April 1991)
Bright and early on the Street, a sleepy Alec comes to answer an impatient banging at the Rovers front door. His candidate, Alf, demands to know where his election leaflets are. "They should have been here first thing!", he yells. "This is no way to run a campaign!" Alec sends him away again with the promise that they'll be here soon and not to worry, they'll be worth the wait.
Vera tells her father that she is worried she and Jack will be found out in their fraud against Mrs. Maxwell-Glover. Joss listens sympathetically but Jack thinks she's taking it all too seriously - it was all only meant as a lark. He is unprepared for her sudden outburst as she rails at him for building up her hopes only to dash them! "Sadist!" she shrieks.
As Curly goes off to work, Angie asks him to try again to convince Reg to allow Raquel to take part in her student fashion show. He doesn't think his efforts will avail much but Angie has confidence in him. Only he'd better hurry, she emphasises - they're running out of time!
In the Corner Shop, Alf is grumbling to Audreh about the leaflets not being ready. She thinks he's got just what he deserves for trusting a mate of Alec 's to do the job! Don happens in and Alf changes gear to ask him if he can help out with delivering the leaflets. When Don asks if he is short of volunteers, Alf scoffs at the notion, saying people are queuing up to help! "Well then, in that case, you won't be needing my help!" says Don.
Andy comes into the store and happens to run into Phil Jennings. Phil asks if he's still interested in the job offer and Andy says that he definitely is. Has he talked to his father about it yet? No? What does he have to lose by asking? Andy answers that Jim might just kill him for asking!
In the Rovers, parlour, Alf and Alec are joined by Bet just as the leaflets are unwrapped, "hot off the press". Glancing at one of them, Bet comments that they're "a bit off". The two men look at her quizzically and she quotes, "Alfred Roberts - 'the Family's Champion' - a bit below the belt, is that!" They argue that it's just politics but Bet takes it as a personal attack on Deirdre. She thinks that's how the voters will read it too!
In the aisles of Bettabuys', Curly tells Vera that he is both disappointed and surprised at her for scamming a day off work to go and interview for a job she wasn't really after. "But Curly", she pleads, "it were Jack's idea!" Nevertheless, he expresses wonder that she could stoop to such behaviour, especially as he considers her to be a member of his "extended family". When she hears he has intervened on her behalf with Reg to prevent her being found out, she pats his shoulder gratefully. "Aww - thanks, Petal - I knew I could count on you, Cock!" she beams. "Vera, I'll thank you not to call me Curly, while we are work, *or* Petal, and *certainly not* Cock,! It's Mr. Watts, here - do you think you could manage that?" he asks. "Mr. Watts!" comes Reg's shrill voice, "I hear you've been looking for me?" Turning his attention to Reg, Curly informs the manager that he would like to speak to him about something important. "Five minutes then, lunchtime", answers the manager shortly before turning to Vera to sarcastically inquire on the state of her gallstones.
Andy goes to talk to Jim in his repair shop about the job offer Phil Jennings has made. Jim comments that Andy's "always had a wild streak", unlike his brother, who, "taking after their mother, is the sensible one". (Huh?) Dismissing his father's (nonsensical) remarks, Andy explains that he thinks the job could lead to something important for him. He wants to be his own boss one day, really make something of himself.
In Reg's office, Curly makes a pitch for Raquel to be in the fashion show. Reg is against the idea, (he says) because he has her best interests at heart. As Raquel is Miss Bettabuys, Reg has to consider the store's reputation. He can't take the chance that this venture may lead to other, less savoury endeavours. "Today the catwalk, tomorrow wet T-shirt contests!" he warns. In the face of Curly's protests that it wouldn't be like that, Reg remains unmoved. There will be no fashion show for Raquel.
Alec and Alf stand at the bar proudly looking over their leaflets just as Percy and Emily come in from handing out Deirdre's. Realising they are behind the game, Alec instructs Jack to get out and start delivering theirs. Jack scoffs at the idea, he is a barman, after all, but Alec insists. As they argue, Percy closes in to swipe one of the leaflets from under Alf's nose, which action is met with mild protest.
Phil and Deirdre are just returning from pounding the pavement when, as they enter her house, Phil scoops Alf's leaflet from the floor on the other side of the mail slot. As he skims the flyer, he notes with foreboding that the other side has "taken the gloves off". Having a look herself, she comments, "Flamin, cheek!"
In the Corner Shop, Audreh is working alone and chatting to Ken when Percy comes in and shows him Alf's leaflet. Angered by what he sees, Ken asks Audreh where Alf is. "He'll be out pressing flesh', as the Americans say - a disgusting phrase!" she tells him. "THIS is disgusting!" retorts Ken, waving the leaflet at her.
Angie has dropped in to Bettabuys to see if Curly managed to persuade Reg. Finding Raquel in an anxious state, she tells her not to worry, that Curly knows which buttons to push. Just at that moment, Curly comes down from Reg' s office and breaks the bad news. The girls are deflated to hear it and shocked when they hear Reg's rationale for the decision. As Curly explains, he's worried about everything from wet T-shirts to frilly suspenders!
Deirdre is still reeling from the shock of Alf's election leaflet. She wonders what her crime was except to have two husbands give her the elbow. She's done her best and now finds she has to defend herself against the accusation that she's morally deficient. Phil tells her it isn't enough to stand on her record - she must fight fire with fire.
Bet is still giving Alec a hard time over the jargon on the campaign literature. She asks what he stands to gain besides preventing Phil Jennings from getting hold of the Graffiti Club. Alec claims it's all in the cause of a much higher ideal - the good of the common people. He thinks a man with Alf's experience will make a much better councilor than someone like Deirdre, "a glorified shop assistant with ideas above her station"!
Jack is home giving his sore feet a rub after being forced to go out and deliver Alf's brochures. Vera comes in from work and asks him what Mrs. Maxwell-Glover had to say when he called. He didn't call? But he promised! "That were before I came to be one of Gilroy's storm-troopers!" he bellows. Now he's off to get a clean pair of socks and then back to "prison". If she' s so anxious about Mrs. MG, Vera can ring her herself! Poor Vera looks about to cry when Joss tells her to sit down and let him fix her a nice cup of tea. Then, they'll have a "nice chat", he promises.
In the Rovers, Phil makes a show of going up to the bar and ordering champagne from Alec. They are celebrating in anticipation of their victory, he explains. "The voters love an underdog and that's just what you've made Deirdre into!" From their table, Emily asks Deirdre how he can be so confident. "He's not", she explains, "he just wants Alec to think he is!" The ploy has the desired effect as Alec appears to be quite perturbed.
While Alec gets the champagne into some ice, Phil wanders over to sit with Jim. He asks if Jim has any thoughts about Andy coming to work for him. Jim has some definite thoughts - mainly that he doesn't want Andy's studies to suffer. Phil assures him that he'd only be part-time and should have no trouble coping if he's really keen. In that case, Jim says he wouldn't want to hold Andy back.
Ken comes into the pub and asks Deirdre if she has seen the "garbage" Alf Roberts is putting about. She answers, "I've had it shoved under me eyeballs ad nauseam today, thank you very much." Just as Deirdre is politely declining Ken's offer to get involved, Percy steps in to add his two pence worth. Alf overhears from the bar and says he can't see what all the fuss is about. Ken turns to confront him, saying, "God help the person stupid enough to vote for you after this stunt!" and Phil joins in from behind with, "Here, here!" Ken whirls round to inform him that he doesn't need any support from him, which results in a shouting match between them, with Alf, Percy and Alec yelling from the sidelines. Bet steps up to the bar and orders an end to election talk. The eruption quelled, Phil and Deirdre leave the pub, he, angry and she, embarrassed.
Back at the Duckworths', Vera tells Joss how disappointed she is that they can't follow through and take the jobs with Mrs. Maxwell-Glover. He agrees it's a shame and says he thinks Jack is mad to turn down such an opportunity. "What about the references though?" she wonders. With a twinkle in his eye, Joss tells her to leave *that* to him. "They don't call me Joss Fix-it Shackleton, for nought!" he promises.
Anita Belanger
Joss Shackleton: HAROLD GOODWIN
Written by ADELE ROSE Directed by BRIAN MILLS
Monday (3218, Friday 26 April 1991)
Alf plans to be out of the shop and we soon find out he's going to be on the radio on a programme called Shop Talk. Emily finds out too, courtesy of Audrey's gob and finds it somewhat coincidental that Alf should be on the radio just before the election! Alf patiently explains that it has nothing to do with the election, it's a grocer's show! He has a hard time convincing Emily and after she leaves, having only come in for a box of matches anyway, he yells at Audrey. Why? Was it a secret and what would you be up to, Audrey asks. Not a thing, Alf insists, it really is to do with W.A.R.T.S. (Well, we'll see...)
Curly and Reg talk about the fashion show, which Bettabuys is now sponsoring. Curly assures Reg there will be plenty of positive exposure for the store. Reg has also convinced himself that the sponsorship is good for employee morale. Is it, now? Raquel's morale seems to leave a bit to be desired. She's broken a nail stacking shelves with Vera and demands to know what Reg is going to do about it. Reg is all protective and smarmy and leads her away to take over on check out, as now, of course, Bettabuys' reputation will be at stake! Vera looks down on all this preferential treatment, vowing to Curly that she is looking forward to a job in a nice place for a change where they treat you with respect.
Alec adds a bit of "stiffener" to Alf's cup of tea for Dutch Courage before his interview. This scene is classic weasly slimy Alec material! He reviews Alf's speech and keeps hinting that Alf should get a few insinuations in about Deirdre and how upstanding a citizen he is! Various subtle ways to give the impression that Alf is dependable, reliable. Alf is genuinely only thinking of his grocery itinerary but you and i both know that Alec would have Alf's words twisted round so badly that you'd think Alf were running for Prime Minister. Alec even suggests Alf make up a story about Deirdre, when she used to work for Alf, spending more time chatting up male customers than serving peppermint lumps! Alf insists he's playing no dirty games, he's running on his integrity!
In the pub, Don is reading out loud from the Gazette which has published a very flattering profile of Deirdre Barlow. Alec is astounded and Alf is appalled. He insinuates Phil had some undue influence over the article's reporter and hearing this, Percy cries Libel! Alec quickly ushers Alf out of the line of fire, on the way to the radio station. The news about the phone in radio show spreads around the pub shortly after.
Next door, Phil and Emily are assuring Deirdre that the Gazette article is not over the top and is very good publicity. Phil has heard a rumour that for some reason doesn't surprise the ladies, it's about some lady Alf is seeing that lives in Nightingale Street, the Widow Barford (remember her? One of Alf's Grocery Groupies from W.A.R.T.S?) and Alf has been seen making a few "late night deliveries"! Deirdre refuses to sling that particular mud pie, eschewing any low tricks. She isn't even interested in listening in on the radio programme as she has leaflet distribution to organize but from the expression on his face, i'd say Phil is going to have a crack at it. But i was rather surprised that Emily and Deirdre weren't shocked as all get out at the rumour, this would be very out of character for the Alf they know and love!
Alec hasn't given up and at the radio station, he's still giving Alf ideas for ensuring his upstanding, dependable and generous personality comes through in the interview. But for every idea Alec has, (i.e. Tell them you like children) Alf has an equally negative response (Yeah, except them MacDonald lads!) Alec is about to give it up for a lost cause but when Alf is summoned for the interview to begin, he urges Alf to stick the boot in when he gets the chance. Deirdre is just laughing at you now, after that Gazette article.
Shop talk begins with an introduction of Alf and his business and various and sundry types of customers that frequent his shop. One of Alf's remarks sound to me to be quite patronizing towards the elderly customers (so lonely they might come in for a box of matches just to have a bit of company.... and who was just in that morning for matches???) We cut back to the shop several times during this scene as Audrey listens in with Jim who has come in for a grocery order.
Over at the pub, Bet realizes the show has started and she hurries jack off to get the radio and tape the show for Alec. Joss is over to one side of the bar, writing furiously, that would be the made up references for Vera and Jack to pass off to their potential employer! Phil is there while the radio plays and dashes out for a minute to his car to "fetch his wallet" But he gets in the car and picks up his mobile phone (i think that's the first mobile we've seen on the Street? Am i wrong?)
In the studio, the next caller is a Mr. Owens with a strong Welsh accent but the tone of his voice sounds suspiciously familiar. He begins by asking Alf's opinion on Sunday trade. Alf launches into his business vs. Family values speech. The caller then delights Alf by asking if he is the same Alf Roberts who is running for council. Alf sits up straighter and gets ready to take the opening but the caller continues and we cut away to see that it is indeed Phil on his mobile making the call. He asks if this is the same Mr. Roberts who has been seen making late night deliveries to a certain Mrs. Barford on Nightingale Street, is that personal service or what? Rumour firmly planted! Alf is stunned and the radio announcer ends the show. But the damage is already done and to more than just the electoral front. Audrey is also stunned. Jim is bemused. Audrey seems to believe it, too and is so angry she threatens the Widow Barford and Alf both with bodily harm and lets Jim take his box of groceries home for free!
Later, Bet is reclining on the settee, wiggling her toes in the air. Alec is listening to the tape of the show and moaning Disaster! He believes the rumour too and thinks he's been stabbed in the back! He foretells victory for Deirdre leading to the planning committee and Phil opening up the new club. That spells bankruptcy for him. Bit lets him rant for a bit and then says that she thinks someone else will have even more to say about the whole ...er... affair!
And more she is saying. Audrey drags Alf into the back room of the shop. Alf defends himself. Vivian's husband Desmond Barford was a long time mate of Alf's before his death and his widow is just a bit dependent on Alf, there's nothing more to it. Those late night deliveries were really only the odd lift home from a W.A.R.T.S. meeting! Strewth! (lol) But this is the first Audrey has heard of any of this and figures she wasn't told because Alf has something to hide! Audrey has had enough and storms out of the shop.
Joss has presented Vera with a suitable reference letter from someone he says he used to know but who is dead now (no way to verify). Jack and Vera are thrilled and Jack posts the letter with a kiss!
The fashion show is about to begin. Music pumps out of the speakers. Makeup and hair is artfully arranged. Curly is backstage while Reg is out front amid the students by his Bettabuys sign. The models are dressed and pacing the catwalk and now it's Raquel's debut! She's wearing a lovely fuschia (or maybe it's red, i can't tell) tunic with black leggings and a black shawl over one shoulder with a pink/red cloche hat! She Looks Marvelous and struts her stuff like a pro! Reg lets it be known that she is Miss Bettabuys to several bystanders and waves at Raquel.
But backstage, we see one of the male models has come over ill. Angie and Raquel try to persuade Curly to strip and don the costume but he refuses and escapes to the audience where Reg thinks the publicity might have gone down well. No matter, Angie comes back out front. Curly apologizes but she's not upset. Because... There's Raquel again in an orange and yellow man's suit and fedora. This innovation brings the crowd to their feet, cheering Angie's designs. Angie basks in the glory of success as the credits roll...
Tuesday (3219, Monday 29 April 1991)
Alf is in a hurry to get off to the shop this morning as the new breadman is touchy about being kept waiting. Audreh says she doesn't want to hold him up and it's clear she has no intention of coming with him. Alf can't believe she's still upset about the radio broadcast and again reiterates that nothing improper went on between him and Mrs. Barford! Audreh doesn't really think anything did - it's what "others" are thinking that bothers her. Well if that's the problem, she really ought to come in, he points out. After all, what will folk be saying if she isn't there? "Same as they'll be saying if I am there", she answers wryly, "only I won't be there to hear it!"
Angie comes downstairs in the morning and Curly greets her with a cup of coffee. She expected champagne in bed after her success of the evening before, she quips. There was no time to chill champagne, Curly humours her - not with reporters camped out on the doorstep all night and the phone ringing off the hook! "I'll be lucky to get a line in the poly magazine!" she laughingly replies. Joking aside, she tells him she doesn't know where she would have been if not for Raquel, especially after the way Ben let her down!
In the parlour of the Rovers, Alec is "pacing up and down like a caged lion in heat", according to Bet. He's worried about what effect Alf's embarrassing radio shot will have on the voters. Moreover, he's utterly convinced that Deirdre's camp is behind it. Bet points out that they can't prove Deirdre is involved so they'd best leave that out altogether. Besides, the damage is done now - it's better to do nothing and let the scandal die down. Denials will only serve to remind the voters of what was said in the first place.
At the Duckworth's breakfast table, Jack says Mrs. Maxwell-Glover will have their references by now as he posted the letter last night. He and Vera want to ring her and ask what her decision is but Joss cautions them not to rush her. She'll want to take her time, he points out, give it her due consideration. On reconsideration, Jack agrees they'll wait - "It's all over but the shouting, anyway", he says.
Alec drops into the Corner Shop for a quick consultation with Alf. He advises his candidate not to mount a smear campaign against Deirdre as it will only feed the flames. Alf is taken aback by this, commenting that it almost sounds as if Alec believed the charge! Of course he doesn't believe it, he protests. It *isn't* true -- is it? "Of course not!" Alf blusters. Right then - then the best way to combat the rumour is for Alf to get out and meet the voters. "Close the shop you mean?" That's up to him, Alec replies. "Do you want to get back on council or not?"
In Bettabuys, Curly comes over to the checkout to tell Raquel what a fine job she did last night. He's careful to mention Angie's praise, adding that she thinks Raquel has a future in modeling. "She isn't the only one", Raquel proudly informs him. She's been invited to have a consultation with a photographer tonight. "Are you going?" Curly asks cautiously. Of course she' s going - "What have I got to lose?" she replies excitedly.
Deirdre pops into the Corner Shop for a few provisions and is greeted quite coolly by Alf. Stating she is sorry about what happened during his interview, she's quick to add that she had nothing to do with it. Alf stops short of accusing her outright but he says that it could only be someone "with a great deal to gain". Offended by the inference, she says that since he has such a low opinion of her, she's surprised he allows his premises to be "sullied" by her poster! "And for your information", she shouts, "that wasn't my idea either!" "What poster?!" he sputters, following her from the shop. Looking around and then upwards, he spies the offending item in Ken's flat window. There, for all to see, is a poster of his opponent smiling at the masses!
In less time than it takes to say "Flippin' cheek!", Alf is on the phone to Weatherfield Comprehensive asking to speak with Ken. Told he is unavailable, Alf leaves a message for Ken to call him on an "urgent" matter!
Percy comes into the Rovers and joining Phil at the bar, he launches into the matter of the call-in program yesterday, which he feels was "offensive to public decency" and "over the top". Theorising an attempt by one of the other candidates to blacken Alf's character, Percy opines that it will have the reverse effect. He turns to ask Jack if *he* would be put off voting for Alf because of what he heard. Without hesitation, Jack answers, "Of course not - fella's gone up in my esteem!"
Alf is still trying to reach Ken over the phone. His frustration increases when he verifies that his earlier message has been passed on. Impatiently, Alf decides he's wasting his time and hangs up.
When Deirdre comes in to the pub, Phil offers to get her drink and she grudgingly accepts. She remarks to Bet that she's a bit surprised they are even serving her after the reception she got from Alf. Alec butts in to say that he and his candidate are not as vindictive as her camp! Deirdre and Phil object to the remark but Bet calls for an end to election talk before it can get out of hand. "There's been enough damage done", she points out firmly. "There's been no damage to my candidate", Alec says with assurance. "Quite the opposite", he adds. Phil jumps in with, "And there's been none to mine, either. So I guess everybody's happy". "No, Phil", replies Bet, "everybody's *not* happy!" It wasn't Alf and Deirdre she was referring to - "it was the innocents, like Audrey Roberts, for one!"
Being the man of action that he is, Alf has decided to take matters into his own hands. Having let himself into Ken's flat, he now unceremoniously rips the poster from the window and tears it up, crumpling the pieces and throwing them down to the floor.
Bet has called round to pay a visit on Audreh. She's come as a concerned friend she says, not on Alec's behalf as Audreh presumes. In tones of sympathy, Bet asks what Alf has to say about Mrs. Barford. He says it's all a lie, answers Audreh. "But you don't believe him? All the signs are there?" asks Bet coyly. "No, of course I believe him - it's what *other folk* believe!" Audreh answers. Bet tells her softly that folk who know her and Alf think the whole thing "stinks" and the only way to convince those who don't know them is to "carry on as though nought happened"!
In Bettabuys, Vera is busily stacking shelves when Reg comes along and watches from over her shoulder to see that she is doing it "in the prescribed manner". She answers that she ought to be, he's told her often enough! Rising to face him, she tells him bitterly that he can stop picking on her. And if he doesn't like the way she does her job, he can do it himself!
In another aisle of the store, Curly is asking Raquel about this photographer she's going to see - what exactly does he have in mind? She doesn't know yet but he's told her with the right "exposure", she could go "right to the top"! Reg interrupts to ask if there's a problem and Curly fibs that there was but now it's been sorted. Perhaps in that case, Reg tells him, he wouldn't mind going and sorting out Mrs. Duckworth as she seems to have one!
When Angie comes into the Corner Shop for a loaf of bread, Alf asks her to wait behind the counter for a minute so that he can get some stock from the back. Audreh tentatively enters just as Alf returns to the front of the store. He's surprised to see her but pleased to hear that she's stopping.
Back at Bettabuys, Curly takes Vera aside for a quiet word. Unrepentant, she tells him that Reg "had it coming" when she told him off. He's always nit-picking, she claims! Curly tells her she's lucky to still have a job after the way she spoke to him, but Vera answers that her "days of bowing and scraping to the likes of Holdsworth are numbered" - she'll soon be able to tell him where to stick his job!
In the Corner Shop again, Audreh hands a Mrs. Harper her change and bids her "good day". As the woman leaves the shop, Alf comments that she must have a memory like a sieve - she's been in three times today! Audreh returns cynically that now she's here, the woman has finally got what she came for! Ken enters rather abruptly and tells Alf he wants a word. Alf answers that he would like a word and all... What right has Ken to display posters of the opposition on *his* property?! Angrily, Ken demands to know what right Alf has to commit illegal entry, trespass and willful damage to *his* property?!
In the Rovers' parlour, Alec wonders what Bet said to Audreh to persuade her to go back to work. Bet says she only had a "woman to woman chat" with her, "told her what's important in this life". Alec says he hopes she pointed out to her where "her duties lay". He continues, "Where would Audreh be without Alf? She wants for nought! And all the man asks for in return is a bit of loyalty!" Bet tells him he missed his calling - he should have been in the diplomatic services! Taking her remark at face value, Alec says he can now concentrate on the campaign - he has a feeling that from now on, everything will run "like a well-oiled machine"!
Alf and Ken are now in the flat above the shop, still locking horns over the poster. Alf reminds Ken again that the flat is his property and he won't have it "defiled" with Deirdre's poster and be made into a laughing stock. Ken tells him he's being ridiculous. Everyone around here knows that Ken rents the flat and as Deirdre's husband, he's naturally going to support her in the election. He maintains he has the right to display whatever he wants in his own window. "And I have the right to choose who I want for a tenant!" counters Alf. He tells Ken heatedly that if he persists in placing *that* poster in the window, he's out!
Phil comes around to Deirdre's to try to smooth things over with her but she 's not eager to overlook his stunt. It could have split up two of her friends and now half of Weatherfield thinks she'll stoop to anything to win this election! Phil admits he was stupid to have made the call but there's nothing he can do to change it now so can she please let it go? Grudgingly, she says she would rather give up now than engage in anything other than a fair fight. Phil answers that he understands that now and apologises again for being out of order. She'll forgive him on one condition - that he not interfere in her campaign again.
In the pub, Alf is unwinding with a pint as he tells Alec he wishes the whole thing were over with. Wearily, he begins to recount the episode of the poster
Vera and Curly sit in one of the booths she tells him about the new position she and Jack hope to fill shortly. Curly brings up the question of references and is dismayed when Vera tells him that she and Jack wrote their own. She points out that they're only a formality, something to say that she and Jack are "honest, reliable and trustworthy". (LOL!) "What happens when she checks them?" asks Curly. "Do you think she will?" Vera wonders. "Of course she'll check them, Vera! She's rich enough to buy this whole street - do you think she'll take you and Jack on without checking?" Deflated, Vera can only answer that they haven't done anything criminal -- have they?
Back at the bar, Alf winds up his story. When Alec warns him not to get into it with Barlow, "tricky customer" that he is, Alf tells him not to worry. "I 've marked his cards good and proper. We've no need to bother about him anymore!"
At this moment, Ken is up in his flat, shmoozing with a reporter from the Gazette, Pete Waring. Over cans of beer, the two discuss the poster incident. Ken's landlord threatened to evict him for displaying a poster of an opposing candidate who happens to be his estranged wife - is that it? Ken nods his affirmation. In other words, he faces eviction if he supports his own wife in the election? Again, Ken confirms that's the way it is. With a note of arrogance, he tells the reporter that since election coverage can be so "turgid", he thought the voters might go in for a bit of "light relief". Waring is glad he called - "Cheers!" the reporter offers. At the end of the day, a self-satisfied smile spreads over Ken's face...
Anita Belanger
Pete Waring: PETER ESCREET
Written by BARRY HILL Directed by JULIA JARROLD
Wednesday (3220, Wednesday 1 May 1991)
As her husband and her 'father' tuck into their breakfast without a care in the world, Vera laments that she hardly slept a wink, worrying about the scam of the references. Jack opines that it's no worse than ringing in sick to get a day off work. Joss is inclined to agree with him that the prospective employer is unlikely to check into the references too deeply as "good help is hard to come by these days". Anyway, reckons Jack, they haven't done anything *that* wrong - "What could they be done for?" he asks, rhetorically. "Accepting money under false pretenses", offers Joss. That's all Vera needs to hear. Over Jack's protests, she goes to ring Mrs. Maxwell-Glover to say that they cannot accept the job so would she please return their references.
Curly is almost ready for work when Vera comes to the door to ask for a lift to work. She asks Curly to intervene with Mr. Holdsworth on her behalf, to explain that she wasn't really wanting to pack her job in. Curly points out that when an employee shows as much disdain as she has, the employer is bound to think she doesn't really want to keep her job, but in spite of that, he will see what he can do for her...
In the back room of the Rovers, Alec is talking to a reporter from the Gazette about his candidate, whom he refers to as "Councilor Roberts", only to have the reporter make a sly comment about Alf not having won the election just yet. Alec calls it a slip of the tongue and smiles that Alf "is a natural, after all". The reporter wants to know about the business of Alf threatening to evict Ken over displaying Deirdre's campaign poster. Alec didn't know of the incident but proffers the explanation that there is something "peculiar" about Ken's and Deirdre's relationship. When the reporter presses the point about the eviction, Alec clams up with a "no comment". The reporter suggests that a "no comment" and a threatened eviction are a "loaded combination"...
At Deirdre's place, she and Emily pour over a map of the area slated for canvassing that day. Deirdre comments that she thinks Alf is doing a pretty good job of winning the election for her as he seems bent on demolishing his own campaign. Emily agrees and tells Deirdre they are in the home stretch now, stick to "sweetness and charm".
At this very moment, Percy is loudly and persistently knocking on the door of one of the constituents. A big burly man answers and is obviously not happy at the disturbance. Percy complains vigorously about the man's letter slot, which springs are much too tight and he almost broke his hand on. The householder is not so bothered about the state of his mail slot as he is at being woken. He tells Percy to be on his way, that he works nights and was asleep until Percy called and anyway, who asked him to go shoving things into his slot? Percy won't give up, though. Could he have one of the leaflets back as he shoved two through inadvertently? The man gruffly tells him to be on his way. "You're a head case and if you come back here, you'll be a stretcher case!" he shouts as he slams the door. (In case you can't tell, this scene was absolutely hysterical!!!)
As Percy departs in one direction, Alf rounds the corner from another, armed with his own campaign literature. Just when you think he is going to knock at the door of our shift worker, Alec rolls up, tooting his horn. When asked about the business of threatening to evict Ken, Alf defends himself, saying that he had every right to insist that Deirdre's poster not be displayed on his property. Alec is hearing none of it. He tells Alf that he's arranged for him to be interviewed tonight at the Rovers and that the situation had better be resolved by then. Alf insists he did nothing wrong but Alec is adamant. He tells him there are two things the voters won't brook - that a candidate has threatened his tenant with eviction, and that the candidate's agent has resigned the day before the election! With that, he tells Alf to go and make peace with Ken, "or else!"
At Bettabuys, Curly slips in to Reg's office to ask the manager if he'll have a word with Vera. He pleads on her behalf that she's been under a strain since her mother's death and is sorry about the way she spoke to Mr. Holdsworth. Reg cavalierly agrees to see Vera and Curly ushers her in before leaving them alone. Vera starts by offering an apology and explains that she hasn't been herself, lately. Reg cuts her off, saying it's her fellow employees she ought to be apologizing to for it is they who do the work that she expressed such contempt for! Having made his point, Reg magnanimously accepts her apology "on their behalf".
In the busy corridors of Wetherfield Comprehensive, Alf wanders around looking for his tenant. Ken spots him first and gloats as he realises that Alf has come to offer the olive branch. As the two walk into the schoolyard together, Alf tells Ken that the whole affair has got out of hand. He admits he was wrong to enter Ken's flat and remove the poster but asserts that Ken was wrong, too. Ken doesn't see it quite that way, he feels he had a perfect right to display the poster. Alf makes an appeal on the basis that as a schoolteacher, he shouldn't want his name bandied about the papers and Ken finally agrees to end their feud.
In Bettabuys again, Curly is trying to dissuade Raquel from keeping her appointment with the photographer. He reckons that she'll be required to have her clothes off for the photo shoot and is worried that she'll be taken advantage of. She insists that the photographer is a "professional" and that Curly's fears are unfounded.
Another hilarious scene, this time at the Duckies' as Jack ushers in two policemen who are there in search of himself and Vera. No use pretending they are anyone but the couple in question, before they have the chance to pretend otherwise, Joss tells the detectives they have found the pair!
Detective Sergeant Richardson asks Jack and Vera if they can account for their whereabouts between two and three o'clock that afternoon. They both stammer that they were at work at that time and poor Vera goes into a complete panic. With a grab at her purse, she starts confessing to their fraudulent scheme in applying for domestic positions. Jack heroically steps forward and confesses that he is "the villain" and wonders how much time he'll get for it. The detective tells him possibly six months, possibly six years.
Vera has fished the ill-gotten £30 from her purse by now and is almost hysterically waving it at the detective. He assumes that she is offering a bribe and issues a warning before asking who their accomplice was. Jack only too eagerly points to Joss, who looks up anxiously at the police, wide-eyed at the accusation. The officer expresses his surprise that Joss could get "in by the pantry" and asks the old man's age. Vera asserts that her father uses the door like everyone else and it finally becomes clear that the Duckworths and the police are at cross purposes. Jack steps forward to ask just what it is they are being accused of. They are stunned to hear that the Maxwell-Glover residence has been burgled that afternoon!
In the corner shop, Audreh tells Alf she is glad that he and Ken have made peace now. Alf states that he still doesn't care for Ken, he gets up his nose. Don walks in and remarks that Deirdre's campaign poster is back in the upstairs window and Alf goes ballistic. He runs out to check for himself and then comes back in, expressing his outrage at Ken's effrontery while Audreh pleads with him to let it drop.
Back at the Duckworths', things are considerably calmer now as the situation seems to have been cleared up over a pot of tea. The two detectives are getting ready to leave when Det. Sgt. Richardson stops to flatter Joss that he must be quite a scholar to have executed the letters of reference so ably. Turning to Jack now, he says that he may be calling around again, as the mood takes him - he can always use a good laugh in his line. Jack, grateful to be off the hook, answers, "Anytime you feel like dropping in!" (ROFL!) The officer then cautions Vera not to go around flashing money at CID officers in future. Vera, looking relieved, gives her assurance that she'll be returning the money to its rightful owner. When the officer suggests they might still have the job if they wanted it, Vera sorrowfully says that she couldn't face Mrs. Maxwell-Glover now.
In the Rovers, Bet and Ivy stand at the bar chatting about the election. Deirdre and Phil come in and Bet tells them that Alf is due to arrive at any minute. Deirdre smugly retorts that aside from the fact that he's a hypocrite and a liar, she has nothing against him. When Ivy comments that it remains to be seen who will win, Deirdre snaps back, "I'll make you a bargain, Ivy. I won't campaign in here if you won't." (Arrogance does not look good on Deirdre!)
In the back, Alec is trying his best to entertain two reporters from the Gazette while anxiously awaiting Alf's arrival. One of the reporters, Peter Waring, decides to have some fun at Alec's expense. He talks about "the one story" he "would give anything for". When Alec rises to the bait, he tells him, "A dog with two tails - if you ever see one, call me immediately!" Alec is completely dumbfounded at the revelation. He gives a weak smile as he wonders to himself if the man is playing with a full deck. He tries to change the subject, wondering what could be keeping his candidate...
In the public section again, Alf and Audreh have just come in. Bet tries to hustle Alf into the back where Alec and the reporters are waiting but he insists on having a pint first. Jack rushes in with his excuses for being late but Bet isn't interested, she orders him to see to Alf's and Audreh's drinks as she retreats to the parlor to inform the waiting reporters that Alf has arrived. No sooner has Alf been served his ale than Ken bursts in, demanding to know what Alf thinks he is playing at. Apparently, Alf got hold of a ladder and glued one of his own campaign posters over the one of Deirdre that Ken had placed in his window! (ROFL again!) Deirdre, from the nearby table that she and Phil are seated at, says she doesn't want to stick around for the blowout, but Phil is quite amused by the situation and insists they stay and watch.
In the back, Alec and Bet, waiting with the reporters, shudder as the argument erupts. Hearing the fracas, Waring decides he'd like to have a picture of "the people's man sipping a pint". The Gilroys stand by smiling helplessly as the reporters make their way into the pub.
The dispute between Alf and Ken has heated up by now and has become physical as the two grip each other's lapels. Oblivious to the photographer, their shouting match degenerates into a shoving match as the camera's flash goes off. Alf and Ken suddenly become aware of what has happened and look on in horror as Waring glibly comments, "Not quite the dog with two tails, but it will do!"
Det. Sgt. Richardson: GARRY COOPER Peter Waring:
STEFAN ESCREET Shiftworker: BILL RODGERS
Writer: JULIAN ROACH
Thursday (3221, Friday 3 May 1991)
It's election day! Alec is raring to go, talking about destiny and Brave New Worlds. Bet's just sleepy and wants it over with, after seeing the effect it's had on the folk round here. She shakes her head over the fracas in the pub the night before. Alec attributes it to free speech and democracy and besides, their lot started it! Alec is still moaning on about that club business with Phil Jennings too.
Deirdre tells Emily all about the fight in the Rovers the night before and about the newspaper photographer. She thinks they were set up. Surely not! Tracy brings a tray of tea and listens in. Deirdre really wants to win now, she really does! Ken arrives apologizing for his performance (and yes, he did start it!). Deirdre's more worried about the fall out what will be in the paper because even at this late stage everything matters. Ken pledges his support but Deirdre declines, just vote for her if he wants to help. That goes without saying! (Can you say "Stuff the Ballot Box with votes for Deirdre?)
Alf prepares to leave the shop for the last minute push. Audrey will be on her own all day and isn't pleased about it and lets her opinion be known as is her wont. Alec shows up to wish the candidate luck and offers his support, which doesn't extend to, apparently, driving old people to the polls. He feels they all take advantage and then vote for the opposition just for devilment! Audrey's mood doesn't improve when the Widow Barford arrives to pick up Alfeh. (and I don't think she's all that large a woman, even compared to Audrey!) It doesn't sound like Vivian has had any wind of the radio scandal involving her name and Alf hurries her out the door before Audrey can interrogate her. Audrey makes a disparaging comment to Alec about Vivian's size and Alec unkindly jokes that if Mrs. Kettle (Vivian) and Alf were on the same platform they'd have a landslide victory. Audrey squeals in delight while i am just disgusted. But that's par for the course for someone like Alec who should really be called Mr. Pot in this instance!
Curly is getting the chapter and verse from Raquel about her first modeling session (underwear and swimwear, the photographer's specialty). Curly keeps his jealous nature in check but is rather dubious as to the legitimacy of this bloke. Oh no, Raquel cries, he's for real, keeps changing his cameras and everything! Raquel is enjoying herself immensely and plans to go back for another session, she just has to ring the photographer at dinnertime to arrange it. Curly offers to go with her but is somewhat alarmed when told the photographer doesn't like to have anyone else in the studio when he's working.
Alf and vivian vote and ken shows up. He tries to make peace but it's a half hearted attempt since he still thinks Alf started the whole fight (but Ken DID antagonize Alf by pasting Deirdre's poster in his window above Alf's shop, let's face it!) When Alf doesn't take the olive branch well, Ken has the arrogance to say he tried to be civil but Alf just isn't interested, is he and more angry words are exchanged.
In the pub, Angie brags to Bet that a Manchester manufacturer is interested in producing some of her designs. Percy butts in and puts his two pen'orth in (as usual) by ridiculing the daft designs you see on the runways and never ever see normal folk wearing them on the street. He offers his flat cap for inspection, pointing out it's design is perfection, no body could ever improve on it. Jack tries to get Alec to let him off for a bit while it's quiet in the pub so he can go vote. (I didn't know there were polling stations in the Bookies' now!?) Alec will only let him go if he votes for the appropriate candidate but Bet has a laugh at the whole prospect. Jack's never voted in his life, more like! Proven by the fact that when Bet asks him who's name is he going to put his cross by, Jack indignantly retorts that he can write as good as anyone!
At Bettabuys, Vera seems all would up, minding her P's and Q's, jealously scolding Raquel for calling her boyfriend Curly on the shop floor. (course he doesn't mind it when Raquel does it though i always admonished Kimberly and Vera!) Vera goes off to lunch and Raquel asks to be let off work early for another session. (photography!!!! Oh come on!) Curly grins and leers at her when she promises to ring him when she's done and make it all up to him tonight.
Back to the pub, Alf and Vivian stop in. Mention is made how a lot of people don't vote till the evening so it's hard to tell yet how it's going. Alec sits down with the campaigners while Jack takes note of how women seem to be all over politician. Bet is bemused and asks if that's why men go into politics. Jack snorts that that's why men go into anything! Why should politics be any different! (what do they say, out of the mouths of children? (couldn't bring myself to call Jack a Babe LOLOL)) Bet joins the merry group as Don comes in, again with a newspaper. (remember the upset he caused last time he had the Gazette and read from it? That flattering article about Deirdre that preceded the radio interview) He displays the photo of Ken's hands round Alf's neck and a very nasty headline indeed. Jack shows Alf and Alec and Jack proves his literacy by reading a bit out loud, about Deirdre's ex-husband threatening her opponent and the bit that implies Deirdre spends more time on Grabber Granny weekends to Paris with a multitude of men. Alec is thrilled, good publicity for their side but Alf looks as if things have really got out of control!
Percy takes the paper next door and Deirdre is horrified and angry and threatens to go to the pub and give them what for. She feels like giving up now but they all pledge their support and Tracy hugs her mom and tells her she won't speak to her again if she quits! But how did they find out about Paris? Emily urges a last minute push.
Back to the supermarket and Vera doesn't help Curly's fears any by telling tales of evil photographers and what will it all lead to? Top shelf magazines and mucky clubs in Soho! She warns Curly that he ought to look after Raquel better.
During closing time, Bet interrupts Alec having a snooze on the settee. She mentions the newspaper article and fears it may be Deirdre's downfall and correctly guesses that it was Alec who told the reporter about Paris. Alec justifies it with the same old boring excuse about preventing Phil from opening his club in competition. Bet tells him not to sink to Phil's level. But Alec reckons, with a bit of delight, how he's not done that, he's done well below it!
Deirdre campaigns door to door and in back gardens as well. Phil drives up in his car which is plastered with her posters and he's using a loudspeaker to sound her praises. She is grateful but tells him about the newspaper story and really just wishes he'd keep a low profile the rest of the day. He's angry for her but there isn't much he can do to help and he also guesses the information about Paris came from Alec.
Don and Ivy come into the shop. Audrey's mood is still bleak and she's moaning under full steam. Alf arrives and the Brennans assure him they both voted for him. Ivy's ears snap to attention when Audrey starts sniping at Alf about his election groupies, one in particular but Don whisks her out the door and out of harms way in time. Alf sharply points out that Mrs. Barford has been a lot more support than some people!
It's 9 o'clock and Curly is moping about the house waiting for Raquel to call (uh oh!) Angie figures Raquel has simply had a bath and an early night after a long session (don't we all?) Why doesn't Curly call her? But he's too stubborn for that and storms out to the pub instead.
The waiting begins at town hall as the votes are counted. Vivian is excited and gushing all over Alf which is more than Audrey is doing, sitting like a lump bored stiff. Alec passes by Deirdre, Emily and Tracy and offers his sentiments that it was a good contest. More like Blood Sport, Deirdre says drolly. Alec has the nerve to say that he doesn't have the tricks of the trade that they have but Deirdre again snaps that he seemed to be a fast learner. He's not going to get a civil word so he gives up and joins Alf and company. He is introduced to Vivian who invites him back to her place along with the others for a victory supper. Audrey, not to be outdone, invites Alec to theirs after that for a drink.
Back in the pub, Phil arrives and tries to buy a somewhat drunk Ken a drink. At least he seems to be in that state, drooping over his pint and speaking with a slight slur. Ken won't be pacified with a drink even if they are on the same side for a change. Curly comes in and spouts off to Jack about underwear models and sordid evil minded photographers. Phil asks after Alec and Bet tells him Alec is at town hall (where Phil no doubt knew he'd be). Phil gets his own back on Alec by telling Bet to pass on a message. He's not opening up a club after all. Never planned to, in fact, it was just an idea he had floated. Alec didn't take him seriously did he? Bet is astounded, knowing all the grief and sleepless nights her Alec has spent worrying.
The ballots are counted and Alfred Sidney Roberts is the winner! (one sad person only got 37 votes!) Alf steps up to the podium to make his thank yous but in the process a very presumptuous Mrs. Barford endeavors to take her misguided place by his side and is jostled out by Audrey. The two women push each other until Audrey gets fed up and rushes off the stage. Alf is alarmed and says a very brief thank you and hurries after her. but he can't catch up due to all the well wishers stopping him to offer congratulations.
Writer - PETER WHALLEY Director - JULIAN JARROLD Vivian Barford - PAULA TILBROOK Returning Officer - STEVE HALLIWELL
Friday (3222, Monday 6 May 1991)
The day after her defeat in the election, Deirdre is out bright and early hanging her wash on the line. Tracy remarks that she'd have thought she would want a "lie in" but Deirdre says there'll be plenty of time for that, now she's a "lady of leisure". She wonders if Tracy would like to do something together today since it's a bank holiday. Tracy already has plans with Graham - she did mention it Saturday. Deirdre says she must have had her head in the clouds as she doesn't remember. Tracy offers to cancel but her mother tells her it's alright - go ahead and see Graham and she'll just have a quiet day in. "Just don't sit around brooding", Tracy urges. (Now I have to say, I was impressed with Tracy's thoughtfulness in this scene. Her concern for her mother was heartwarming!)
Alf suggests that he take Audreh for a run into the country. He proposes they find a nice little pub somewhere and have lunch. Still miffed about Vivienne Barford's behaviour after the election, Audreh coldly informs him that she is "otherwise engaged". One track-minded Alf points out that the shop is shut today! "I do have a life outside the narrow confines of this somewhat *rocky* relationship!" she snaps back. "Audreh, I only want to celebrate my victory with the lady who made it all possible", he pleads. "Then I suggest you phone La Bella Barford'!" she retorts. Alf doesn't think she's being fair - she was the one who started the pushing and shoving. Anyway, Vivienne Barford is a loyal supporter, the one who persuaded him to run in the first place - she had every right to be there! "Yes", agrees Audreh, "so ask *her* out! I can just see the two of you in the back of her mini - it'd be like one of them elephant jokes!" Taking exception to the crack, Alf says he will not be ridiculed! If Audreh insists on carrying on this childish behaviour, he'll have no alternative but to go to the Rovers for his dinner! She doesn't take the slightest notice of what he's saying, going upstairs while he's in mid-bluster. "And a bit of respect and appreciation and all!" he finishes anti-climatically.
In the pub, Alec leans across the bar and muses contentedly, "Behind every successful man there's an even more successful agent. 'King-makers', that's what we are" Polishing glasses in preparation for opening, Bet quips, "King of comedy by all accounts!" He protests that he had nothing to do with the fracas and she agrees, it was more to do with Vivienne Barford! His client's "personal life" is not something Alec can comment on. All he knows is he's scutled "the Good Ship Deirdre Barlow" - there's no way "that pirate she hangs around with is going to get his license now!" he notes with satisfaction. Bet looks a bit guilt-ridden as she confesses there's something she found out last weekend that she's been meaning to tell him. Phil Jennings gave up all ideas of opening that club weeks ago. Alec is not pleased at the revelation!
Curly is disgruntled this morning. He hasn't seen or heard from Raquel since she went off to keep her appointment with the photographer three days ago! Angie asks if he's tried ringing. He has but her parents seem to be away for the weekend. Maybe Raquel's gone with them, she suggests. He sulks that he planned to take her out today, someplace special. Angie asks if she could have forgotten but Curly explains that he hadn't told Raquel - it was meant to be a surprise. "Do you fancy going out together?" he inquires of his roommate. "Nowhere romantic of course!" he hastens to add. Angie thanks him but says she'll be working all morning and going to see a buyer this afternoon. She's very hopeful about selling some of her designs to this one! Ah well, Curly sighs, maybe he'll just pop into the Rovers then. "Maybe you, ll come across someone there!" Angie offers brightly.
On the street outside No. 5, Don is giving his taxi a wash when Percy approaches and complains that the Corner Shop isn't open. Don reminds him that it's a holiday and Alf is entitled as anyone to take a day off. Percy r eckons now that Alf's a councilor he's getting ideas above his station. "You can say what you like about Mrs. Barlow - she were always there when she was needed!" Percy comments before going on his way, presumably in search of a shop that *is* open. Don continues to hose down his car but is surprised when mid-spray, the water suddenly stops. He assumes Ivy has shut the water off until Vera pops her head out of No. 9 to say her water also went off, just as she was filling the tub!
The Rovers is apparently without water now too, as Jack discovers when he tries to wash some glasses. Alec tells him to get down to the cellar to check the stop cock which he's sure Jack must have accidentally shut off - "Why must I employ morons?!" he gripes to no one in particular. Percy has just come in and now asks Alec if can have a minute of his time. "What do you want?" snaps the landlord. "Well, that's a fine address from someone who professes to be a public servant!" Percy complains. "Percy, I'm a landlord, not a public relations consultant", Alec corrects. "Now what is it you wanted?" Percy says that he would like to have a loaf of bread please. Alec nearly busts a gasket in response. "This is a pub - not a corner shop!" Taken aback at the outburst, Percy observes that he's sure changed his tune since *before* the election when he couldn't do enough for folk! Jack returns from the cellar to report that the stop cock is on, which news doesn 't serve to lessen Alec's anxiety. Bet comes through and asks Alec what's up and he tells her in disgust the water's been shut off and Percy wants bread! In one fluid response, Bet replies that it's a rotten time for the water to go off and tells Percy of course he can have a loaf! As she goes off to get it from the freezer, Percy remarks on how "refreshing" Bet's attitude is. "Unlike some I could mention, who when they get their man elected, wash their hands of all responsibility!" he adds for Alec's benefit. Alec retorts that if he *could* wash his hands he'd be a very happy man! "Now go and sit over there while you wait for your bread, whilst I get on with less important matters - like how I'm going to keep the pub open with no water!"
Ivy has gone across to the Kabin to ask Rita if she has water. Mavis is sent to the back to check and shortly returns to report that yes, they have. "Must be only your side of the street", Rita concludes. "I do hope so", says Mavis. "It would be most inconvenient to be without it!" She seems completely puzzled at the withering look Ivy gives her and turning to Rita for enlightenment, is met with a look of utter dismay.
Again in the Rovers, Alec learns from Des that his side of the street seems unaffected by the water stoppage. Bet comes from the back to report that it isn't only they who are affected - it's Rosamund Street, Inkerman Street and Mosley Terrace as well. Absently handing Percy his loaf, she informs Alec that she's been on the phone to the Water Board and they are trying to locate the problem.
Holding up the bread, Percy leans across the bar, "Excuse me, Mrs. Gilroy - this is white bread - I'd prefer oatmeal", he says. "If I were you, Percy Luv, I'd take what's offered", Bet answers smoothly. "It's just that I'm loathe to pay for something I don't want", he explains. "Then regard it as a gift, a gesture of good will - all right?" she smiles through clenched teeth. "Thank you! I'll take it home then", he answers, pleased. "Yes, you do that, Flower", she replies. "I'll come back later for a drink", he promises. "I can't wait, Percy" she answers flatly. Alec sees Percy leaving and asks if he's paid for the bread but Bet tells him to forget the bread and concentrate on the water problem. "What am I to do?" he asks in despair. Bet suggests he seek Alf's assistance - after all, he spent a lot of time and money getting him elected. Right, agrees Alec. "It's time to pay the piper!"
At that moment, Alf himself walks in to the pub. Alec greets him with a handshake and tells him he's glad to see him. As Alec pulls a pint for him, Alf says he's glad to be back on council - the great man that people can rely on. "I'm so glad you feel that way", Alec replies. Informing him of the water problem, Alec tells him he can "get that pint down and then see what's to be done about it!"
In the Kabin, Mavis and Rita are having a tea break. "You never really appreciate something as simple as a cup of tea until you're deprived of it", says Mavis. Rita turns to her in surprise, "Mavis - you're *not* deprived of it! It's them across the road that don't have water!" She knows that, she was merely "empathising". Deirdre comes in and Mavis empathetically asks how she is coping. She replies that it was a shock and Mavis agrees it would be, it always happens when you least expect it! Deirdre relents that perhaps it was for the best - anyway, she can't help the way people vote. "Oh", Mavis explains, "I was talking about the water, not the election!"
Don comes in and mentions that he's looking to Alf to do something about the problem. Mavis protests that the man's only been in office "five minutes" and already people are "expecting minor miracles"! Don returns, "Aye, it's all right for you - your toilet's still working! Deirdre shakes her head in mild disbelief at Mavis and leaves the Kabin.
Alf is just back from the Water Board and now enters the Rovers to report to Alec. As he comes in, we hear Percy recalling to Alec what they did in the war without water: "Cactus, that's your answer. For all intents and purposes, a prickly, hostile creature" "A bit like Alec", Bet interjects. Ignoring the interruption, Percy continues with the instructions for mixing cactus juice with gravy browning No one pays him the slightest mind as Alec turns his attention to Alf, demanding to know how he got on. He didn't find out much, a fault in one of the mains has caused the interruption. The bottom line is, it'll be a day or two before the water's back on. "A day or two!" Alec blusters. "That could cost a month's profit! Now get back out there and start living up to the reputation I've built for you!" he shouts.
Angie is packing up her portfolio to go and see her prospective buyer just as Curly returns from Raquel's house. He didn't find her, he reports listlessly. The neighbours said the family is away but Raquel didn't go with them. Angie tells him to be patient and she'll turn up. At that minute there 's a knock on the door. Curly answers to find Raquel standing there, all smiles. Angie brushes past her and Curly wishes her good luck as he invites Raquel inside.
Emily has gone over to the Wiltons, to get a pitcher of water. She apologises for the inconvenience but Mavis tells her not to be silly, what are neighbours for? Vera arrives just as Emily is leaving with a "desperate" request to use the facilities. Mavis repeats distastefully, "You want to use my toilet?" She uses the excuse that Derek is in the shower but Vera pleads again, promising she won't look! Just then, Derek appears from around the corner of the house, watering can in hand. "Hello Vera! The daffodils have come up a treat this year, haven't they!" he says cheerily. Fuming, Vera turns to Mavis, "In the shower, eh?" By way of an apology, Mavis offers Vera a jug of water if she wants one. Going off in a huff, she shouts, "I'd rather die of thirst!"
Sitting together on Curly's sofa, he and Raquel pour over the photographs that "Frank" took of her while they were in London, where they stayed with his parents. Curly is still mystified that she went off without a word but as she explains: "Frank says a photographer has to have a relationship with his subject in order to present her in her true light!" Curly answers sarcastically, "And what sort of *relationship* do you and *Frank* have?" "Well, it's complicated", she says awkwardly. "It looks fairly simple to me!" he retorts, slapping one of the photos down. "Curly, this is my *career*!" she pleads. "And what about *our* relationship?" he asks expectantly. Raquel gently breaks it to him that they'll be moving in "different circles" from now on. She thinks it's best if they split up before one of them gets hurt. "I see", Curly answers blankly. Seeing his pained expression, she hastens to add, "Don't get me wrong - you're great at duty rosters and displaying tins of soup - probably one of the best!" Pausing briefly, she adds with a note of sadness, "You're just not for me anymore"
A fatigued Alf comes home at the end of his long day of chasing answers in the water crisis. Audreh makes a crack about the "Merry Widow" but he tells her not to start, he feels "like Boris Becker's tennis ball" after the day he's had! As he sinks into his chair, Audreh says she doesn't see that not having water is such a monstrous problem - after all, folk can drink bottled water. A spark lights Alf's eye as the thought sinks in, "Aye - they can, can't they?"
A crestfallen Angie comes in after her meeting with the buyer. Curly's sitting on the sofa, aimlessly peeling the label off a bottle of red wine. How did the meeting