13/08/2012

At the Vic, preparations are made for Phil and Shirley’s engagement party. Mo’s running bets against the wedding going ahead. Phil quashes Ben’s doubts about the engagement and insists he look after still silent Ian. Billy’s bemused that Phil’s taken Ian in. On Shirley’s demand, Ben and Jay bring Ian to the party just as Patrick’s present of a canvas of Shirley and Heather is unveiled. Ian fixates on the canvas and drops a glass when Shirley toasts to Heather. Phil demands Ben take Ian home but is pressured to make a speech while Alfie ushers Ian upstairs. Ben carelessly reveals Jay’s involvement to Ian. Shirley’s fed up with freeloaders and brings the party home, leaving Ian behind with Jean. Jean coaxes him to confide in her. Ian hesitates. Meanwhile, Ben wants to confess but Phil won’t hear of it. In the Vic, Ian cries as Jean watches, grim-faced. At the party, Phil’s presenting Shirley with an engagement ring when there’s a hammering on the door. Phil opens the door to a woman in a wedding dress, pleading for help – it’s Sharon.

Paranoid, Janine checks Michael’s mobile call history. She’s exasperated Michael’s recruited Whitney’s help with Scarlett, and furious he’s in the Vic instead of at work. Alfie talks Kat and Michael into a play date for Tommy and Scarlett. Janine’s defensive when Kat tries to talk motherhood. Kat snaps, revealing Michael said he didn’t love Janine on their wedding day.

Ray’s joined the Red Lion football team and requests Kim lie for him when their practice clashes with the Vic’s. Kim fabricates that Ray’s in hospital, and drops a dish on his foot. Alfie reinstates Ray as his star striker. Kim insists Ray needs to pick a team.

Lola’s bought Lexi a rabbit outfit. Billy’s worries they’ll have no prize money left.