Brookside - Season 16

Max and Susannah return home and discover they have squatters. Lindsey tries to persuade Jimmy not to leave. It is time for Georgia and Nat's dinner-for-two at "Grants", and Mike finds that Ollie was impressed with "his" rewrites.

Georgia doesn't approve of Nat's ideas on how to prevent another pregnancy. Ron tries to convince Jackie to move in with him again. Mick and Elaine have a disagreement, and Susannah discovers that Max has offered Julia and Jack discount for their engagement party.

Mike receives some good news, but his celebrations may be premature. It's Jack and Julia's engagement party, but will they both be present? Mick tries to make amends for upsetting Elaine, and Ron goes with Jackie to see Little Jimmy.

Jack tries to justify the shattering revelation he has for Terry. Jackie is not pleased when she finds out who has bought number 10 from Jimmy. At the salon, Georgia finds someone who isn't prepared to condemn her. Lindsey is peeved when Mike continues to take the credit for her work at a book launch.

Mick plans a romantic candle-lit meal with Elaine, Ron plans a few days away with Jackie, and Terry tries to find a long-lost relative. But not much turns out the way they wanted it to.

Bel confronts Georgia about what Nat has told them about the pregnancy scare, and finds out that things were even worse than she thought. David's collection for Ron doesn't meet with much enthusiasm. Tinhead asks Leo to fix him up with a date with Tanya.

Ron's faith in human nature is restored when some furniture arrives, but then he finds out that he has to pay for it. Despite Jacqui and Julia's objections, Peter insists on doing Georgia's hair at the salon. Terry seeks advice on his predicament from someone else who has experienced the same thing.

Lindsey and Jackie go to visit Jimmy in London, Mick finds that yet again he is unable to be alone with Elaine, and Leo makes extensive preparations for his first real date.

Against Terry's advice, Jack sets a date for his wedding to Julia. About to sign the contract, Jacqui begins measuring up at number ten. Mike is disgusted when Nat offers to show Rachel his portfolio.

There is an unexpected arrival at the pizza parlour. Terry asks Georgia for ideas on the decoration of the new development, and Sinbad for further moral support. Mick presses for the expulsion of Tinhead.

Jacqui, Katie and Rachel plan a girls' night out, but Mick and Sinbad invite themselves along. Elaine finds a more effective way than Mick of convincing Mr Thornton to her point of view. After he refuses to co-operate with the solicitor, Jimmy and Jackie have a heart-to-heart.

David tries to convince Ron that he will have to accept Jackie's decision. Mick advises Sinbad to arrange a lads' night out, but where will they end up? Jimmy wants to do social work with the probation service, but Paul makes him realise that it could be more difficult than he thinks.

Max is much less keen that Susannah to spend an evening with the Simpsons. When no-one will write a reference for Jimmy, he attempts to produce one himself. Jacqui tries to convince Mike to make amends with Lindsey, and Terry's mother visits him unexpectedly, revealing that Jack has been returning all the letters she has been writing.

Ron throws a house-warming party, but Ollie might not be able to convince Bel to come out of the kitchen. Sinbad and David are both concerned about Rachel's relationship with Nat, but can they do anything about it?

Despite other people's objections, Rachel continues to see Nat. On his first day at the youth club, Jimmy discovers Tinhead selling illicit ale. Ron gets a new car, so that he can grow old disgracefully.

Mick turns up just in time to help Elaine move Gladys in with her and Tanya. Ron interviews applicants for the "Trading Post" job with significant input from David - but who will be selected?

PC Coban investigates the disappearance of alcoholic lemonade from Terry's, but will Jimmy help with his enquiries? The publicity for the salon does not go quite as well as hoped. Ron delegates the task of notifying the successful applicant to David, but.......

Although Sinbad is convinced that she is doing the wrong thing again, Rachel gets a job at Terry's bar. Elaine finds that Cassie is not exactly impressed by her plans. Sinbad and Terry are both asked to fulfil the same role, and Ollie insists that Nat begins to sort out at least one of his problems.

Rachel and Ollie try to persuade Peter not to report Nat to the police. Pushed to the limit, Terry brings matters to a head by introducing Mary to Julia and forcing Jack to tell the whole truth.......

Ollie takes Nat for counselling, and finds that he is expected to answer a few questions too. The new bar on the parade is opened, but with a JC instead of an MC.

Bel returns to find that things have not really improved in her absence. Susannah wonders whether she, or particularly Max, should take steps to avoid further pregnancy. Mick thinks Gladys should consider going private to have her hip operation done sooner. Jimmy asks Sinbad if he would like to be a lodger at number 10.

Elaine refuses to sacrifice her principles. Cassie and Bel cannot agree on what should be stocked in the "Trading Post". Lindsey arranges to have her tattoo removed, and Jimmy gives Tinhead a chance to prove himself - but will he be up to the challenge?

Bel tries to prove to Cassie that exotic cheeses will be popular with the "Trading Post" customers. When Max and Susannah dine at "Bar Brookie", Jacqui has to order their food from elsewhere. Mick and Elaine go shopping for expensive engagement rings, leaving Gladys alone.......

Mike shaves off his beard, and thinks he has found another source of income. Gladys must decide whether to go private for her operation. Rachel and Christian have an unexpected rush to cope with at "Bar Brookie", and Jackie thinks that she may be starting the menopause - but does Julia have the answer?

David and Max resolve their past differences, and go to watch Matthew try out for the hockey team. Tinhead tried to sell knock-off gear at Sinbad's shop. Jack's secret is worrying Julia. Mick has to move Elaine, Tanya and Gladys in much sooner than he expected.

Sinbad is still looking for accomodation, and he might not be the only one. Jacqui receives a fax from Terry, but is it good news? Worrying about her forthcoming operation, Gladys asks Mick to witness her will - and another witness turns up just in time too.

Max tries to put the case against him having a vasectomy to Susannah, but it seems to be based mainly on total cowardice. Jimmy tries to butter up Sinbad, while Jackie is keen to obtain a proper rent book. Ollie reacts angrily to Bel's latest accusations.

Ron decides to get rid of Bel's new innovations, but asks for David's support when he tells her. Sinbad and Jimmy confront Tinhead about the brick through the window. Katie gets a full makeover before she goes out with Christian again, but he may have another girl in mind. A complication prevents Gladys's operation from going ahead.

Bel forces Ron to find another assistant for the day, so Mike steps in. Gladys receives the results of her tests. Max is given a choice about his vasectomy operation: Tuesday or Thursday. Jimmy asks Sinbad to pay Jackie rent and keep his secret.

Bel's work-to-rule continues to infuriate Ron. Max has a convenient dose of flu on the day he is due to have his vasectomy, so Susannah enlists Julia's help to make sure he doesn't go anywhere. Some of the residents have a bit of luck on the horses, but there's also an unfortunate loss.......

Sinbad has to make a few phony phone calls to help Jimmy try to find the missing body. Ron jumps to some wrong conclusions, Danny goes to see Ollie, and Mick celebrates his birthday at Gladys's hospital bed. Jack cooks for Julia, but finds that he has moved his belongings into the wrong room.

Danny tries to reconcile his parents. David stands in for Jackie at the petrol station, and Sinbad does his best to help Jimmy make sure that the right coffin is buried.

Jimmy visits the graveyard to make an apology. Ron is concerned to hear that there are plans to expand and modernise the garage. Julia finds Jack's cuttings about Henry Fraser, but can't bring herself to throw them away. Knowing that she has not much longer to live, Gladys asks Mick to bring forward his wedding to Elaine.

There is emotional turmoil for the Simpsons as they all attend a final family therapy session in a last attempt to reach the root of their problems.

Jackie tells Lindsey that she is going to go to art classes, and have a baby. Jimmy becomes angry when he finds out that Ron knew about the baby first. David decides to bid for the petrol station franchise. Nat and Georgia decide that they will have to get away from everyone, and Julia reveals Jack's secret.

Julia tries to presuade Jack to go to the authorities and confess what he has done. Jackie tries to convince Jimmy that the baby is his. Mick and Sinbad have difficulty in finding something to order that "Bar Brookie" have in stock.

Matthew saves the day at the hockey semi-final, Danny spots some anomalies in Bel's business plan, Jimmy earns some legitimate money for once, and JC resolves to remove Nat and Georgia from their flat.

JC's unique style of justice leads to David becoming the proud owner of a Monet painting. Elaine has her hen party. Julia insists that Jack must go to the police, but finds that he has done something quite different. Jimmy gives another talk to young offenders, and an interview to a reporter.......

Ollie returns home early after reading a surprising newspaper article, and finds some unwelcome lodgers. Susannah helps to prepare Max for his operation, and to console Julia. Cassie thinks Bel's new layout for the "Trading Post" is an April Fool, JC throws another spanner in the works for Nat and Georgia, and on Mick's stag night, Ron causes a fire at "Bar Brookie".

Danny does some accounting work for Sinbad, and tries to persuade him to sell Bel a chiller unit. Jacqui insists that Ron cleans up after his circus act in her bar. Max makes a confession to David, and on his wedding day to Elaine, Gladys has a disturbing revelation for Mick.

Jimmy takes drastic action to make sure everyone knows he is going to be a father. Mick makes some enquiries about one of the wedding telegrams he has received. Bel opens her new delicatessen, and Elaine is appalled to learn of Gladys's decision. Nat and Georgia find somewhere else to live, and Susannah foretells the future.

Bel tries to convince Ollie to change his views about Nat and Georgia. News of the accident spreads around the Close, and a policeman with a breathalyser turns up at the hospital.

Max's wine-tasting session with Jacqui has to be interrupted, as some very bad news awaits him at the local hospital.

Jimmy wonders if Jackie should have her baby at home. Cassie finds out that Gladys has refused her treatment, and blames Mick. There is another sad development at the hospital.

Cassie insists on finding out what can be done to help Gladys, but will she agree? Ron reminds Bel of the benefits of all things great and English. Ollie has a change of heart, and Max discovers that Susannah has disappeared.

Bel tries to make Ollie accept that Nat and Georgia are gone forever. Jacqui finds Rachel and Christian kissing behind the bar. Cassie finds it difficult to accept Gladys's decision. Matthew and Emily are cremated.

Jimmy has an unusual present for Jackie. Bel and Ollie try to explain what has happened to Nat and Georgia. Ron wonders where David is going with three different-coloured biros. Susannah is discharged from hospital, but reacts badly to what Jackie is wearing.

Fearing that he will lose his livelihood, Ron isn't speaking to David. Mick has bad news for Jimmy and Lindsey. Max discovers that Susannah has put the house up for sale.

Gladys wants to help Mick with his bills. Max feels that things still aren't getting any better. Katie asks Christian to take it easy with Rachel. Lindsey agrees to go to Jackie's art class with her, and a major surprise awaits them.

Mick's idea on how to resolve his financial problems depends on Jacqui. Mike discovers that the publishers want him to pay for his book to be published. Jimmy tries to persuade Lindsey to enter a talent contest Ron arranges at the Legion. Susannah locks herself in the toilet.

Danny is the only one who remembers Bel and Ollie's wedding anniversary. The Johnsons suffer a setback during the pub quiz. Susannah doesn't feel that she can cope with driving again. Mike is asked to work part-time at "Bar Brookie".

Jacqui and Katie realise that Christian and Katie want the house to themselves for an evening. Gladys has another fall at home, but doesn't want to summon a doctor or an ambulance, and asks Mick to witness a document for her. Lindsey enters Ron's talent contest.

Max dismantles the playthings in the garden, and Susannah continues to blame herself for Matthew and Emily's deaths. Rachel is suspicious when Jacqui and Katie bring her breakfast in bed. David receives some bad news from Patricia, and Gladys's doctor tries to ease some of her pain with morphine.

Max finds the treasure trail which Emily left for him before she died. Ben tries to chat up Jacqui. Elaine finds out about Gladys's "living will".

Sinbad has a date with a mystery lady, a face from Jacqui's past returns, David receives more news from Patricia, Gladys needs to see her solicitor, and Max eventually finds the last clue in the treasure trail - but can he solve it?

When Gladys finds out what Cassie has been saying, she plans to put her straight. David's uniform arrives, and Ron is suitably unimpressed. Bel tries to reassure Susannah about Max's motives regarding Thomas and Alice. When Tinhead returns to cause more trouble at Sinbad's shop, Sinbad blames his parents.......

Ron sends Cassie to spy on David while he carries out a sandwich survey. Susannah's sister returns to the Close with a new job. Rachel helps Christian to move into his new flat.

Mick confides in Sinbad about Gladys's thoughts on mercy-killing. Max tries to convince Susannah to come with him, Thomas and Alice to spend a week in the Cotswolds. Jacqui, Katie and Rachel plan a girls' night out. David receives an unbelievable proposition.

Max prepares to go away on holiday without Susannah, but will she force a last-minute change of plan? Katie encourages Rachel to ask Christian if he wants her to move in with him. Ron puts David's rent up, and Carmel is concerned when Tinhead disappears.

Rachel tells Sinbad she is moving in with Christian. Susannah finds it difficult to cope with Thomas and Alice. Jacqui gives Mick another severe telling-off. Tinhead needs help to sell a washing machine.

Susannah moves her things into Emily's room while Thomas and Alice are staying. Tim borrows tools from David so that he can steal a washing machine for Christian. David threatens to tell Jacqui what Leanne is doing, but she manages to turn the tables on him.

Will Susannah move back into Max's room? Will Ron accept David's peace offering? Will JC accept any of the blame for the damage to Mick and Elaine's property? Will Rachel agree to stop using condoms with Christian?

Sinbad tells Mick he has finished with Carmel. Elaine tells Bel the pizza parlour may not reopen. Despite Jacqui and Katie's advice, Rachel agrees to go on the Pill.

Max plans to surprise Susannah with a holiday, but she has other things on her mind. Sinbad and Mick try to rexolve their differences. Gladys gives Elaine a cheque, but Mick won't let her accept it. David discovers that Ron has vandalised his banner and tells him what is going on at "Bar Brookie", but will he be believed?

It is the grand opening of David's garage, but the residents of the Close are in a sombre mood after hearing that Susannah has died. Sinbad tries to find a job for Tinhead, Cassie is still suspicious of Mick's motives, and Christian is annoyed by how well Rachel seems to be getting on with Mike.

Tinhead starts working at the garage, but will he last? Sinbad tries to convince Mick to accept Gladys's money. Rachel can't stop crying after arguing with Christian. Jacqui tells Mick that another tenant has made JC an offer to take over his lease, unless he reopens within four weeks, but it's Elaine who makes the final decision.

Max decides that is time for a holiday, but first there are some ashes that need to be scattered. On Ron's first visit to the garage, Tinhead accidentally fills his car up with diesel. Gladys has a good evening out at David's over-55's Jive Night, and Jacqui comes off badly in an altercation with Leanne.

Sinbad and David are not convinced that Rachel is doing the right thing. Tinhead is told that he hasn't been sacked after all. Mick discovers that fitting out the new shop is going to be expensive, and Ollie is not pleased to hear where Danny wants to do his work experience.

Max and Susannah discover, from a letter inadvertently opened by Ron, that the police will not be pressing charges. Jacqui hopes that she will be able to go back to work soon, but will she be able to see? Bel tells Ron that she is leaving, and Tinhead thinks Sinbad is trying to move in with his mother.

Gladys decides that she needs to stay upstairs rather than try to move around. Jacqui comes home, and insists that no-one is taking over her responsibilities. Ollie is not pleased about Bel's new job. Ron admits defeat and lets Cassie go, and Max and Susannah set off on holiday.

Christian is still jealous of Rachel and Mike. Katie helps Jacqui to convince everyone that she is still in control. Susannah and Max enjoy a second honeymoon, and Max has a confession to make.

Mick's chip-shop plans suffer a severe setback. Max wakes up and finds that he is alone. Danny is agog with indifference about his forthcoming work experience. Christian convinces Rachel to set a wedding date, and a new woman enters Ollie's life just as Mike thinks he is making progress with her.

Gladys gives Mick and Elaine more money, and refuses to undergo readiotherapy. Danny finds a different kind of work experience from that which his parents arranged for him, and "Birdwoman" tells the Farnhams a sad story.

Jacqui sees a solicitor, and continues to lie about her problems. Ollie assures Bel he is not having an affair. Gladys's condition deteriorates, and the pain-killers are not working.

Jackie wonders if number 10 should be sold so that the bills can be paid. Elaine harangues the doctor when he can't help Gladys. Christian tries to convince Rachel to have a "low-key"

Rachel plans to choose a best man for Christian, but will he be agreeable? Mike rings the posh girl he slept with the previous night, and gets a wrong number. Bel interrupts another of Ollie's meetings with Eleanor, and the Corkhills try to make a good impression on Sinbad's girlfriend.

Bel is anxious to prevent Mike talking about what happened the previous night, but the gossip has already started. Jacqui consults a private specialist about the condition of her eyes. Gladys is in constant pain, but what can Mick and Elaine do to help?

Jacqui stays off work, and Mike is not feeling well enough to go in either. Gladys is fading fast, so Mick has to take drastic measures. Susannah is determined to find ways of improving her chances of getting pregnant, including the removal of Max's underwear.

Elaine wonders whether Gladys ought to go into hospital after all. Ollie returns, but can he and Bel resolve any of their differences? Max worries that Susannah is becoming obsessive, and Jackie encourages Jimmy to obtain some drugs.......

Ollie and Bel decide to give things another go, but there is something they don't know. Jimmy worries that the Johnsons will get him into trouble with the police. It is Gladys's birthday, but how will she celebrate it?

While Ron apologises for over-reacting to Mike having a sexually transmitted disease, Ollie visits a doctor, and is horrified by what he diagnoses....... Jimmy makes Jackie a strong curry in the hope of inducing her labour, but she feeds it to Cracker. The pain finally becomes too much for Gladys. ["Contains scenes that some viewers may find upsetting, particularly those with very ill relatives"]

Ollie compiles a list of everyone he has recently slept with, and asks Bel to do the same. Mick confides in Sinbad about what he has done, but Elaine has more trouble coming to terms with it. Ron is frustrated that the "Moby" cannot be found.

The Corkhills have a sleepless night as they try to stop the steam coming from Cracker's ears, and Jimmy also feels the after-effects of the curry - but it is a much more disturbing night for the Johnsons.

Rachel is not keen on Christian's idea that she arrives by taxi for her wedding. Ollie and Bel argue over access to Danny at the "clap clinic". There are a few teething troubles at the opening of "Chips With Everything", and the Corkhills' new baby is born.

Elaine wants to tell Cassie the truth, but Mick doubts that this is a good idea. Jimmy and Jackie have different ideas for baby names, but can Julia help? Ron is mysteriously summoned to a scrapyard, where he finds the remains of the "Moby".

David and Sinbad decide to treat Rachel to a honeymoon. Katie wakens up to find an occupied tent in the back garden. Cassie and Elaine sort through Gladys's effects. Performing on demand becomes too much for Max and Susannah.

Elaine goes back to work, and Cassie gets a surprise job offer. Jacqui is frustrated by David's efforts to make things easier for her, and strikes back. When Ollie goes to Manchester, Bel returns to try to persuade Danny to come and live with her.

Jimmy receives his NVQ certificates. David asks Cassie's advice on wallpaper patterns, but Jacqui and Katie tell him they are moving out of the bungalow. Christian wants to choose which wedding dress Rachel will wear.

Jackie is not impressed when Jimmy names the baby after a pair of underpants. Jacqui thinks that Julia is about to start a collection for a guide dog for her. Ollie feels that he is being forced into a corner by Bel, but can Eleanor help him?

Lindsey returns to sing at the "Legion", but this time as herself. Cassie believes she is going to lose out on some of her inheritance from Gladys. David hires a chainsaw in the hope of preventing a nasty accident - but someone else decides to borrow it.......

Elaine discovers why Cassie has been ignoring her and Mick. Danny refuses to talk about Bel. Jimmy goes to the employment office, David sadly reflects on the past, and Katie and Jacqui move into their new flat.

Rachel wants to postpone the wedding because Mandy is stuck in Australia, but Christian won't let her. Mick discovers that Jacqui has reported him to the authorities. Danny wrecks Mike's chances of bedding two more girls, kicking him in the parade.

On Rachel and Christian's big day, Lindsey is invited to an audition. Ron intercepts a letter to Jacqui, but what can he do about it? Elaine is still worrying about Cassie, while Jimmy discovers how easily Danny can replace, and amend, his certificates.......

David gets an answering machine and a cleaner/cook. Lindsey turns down Ron's offer of top billing at the "Legion". Cassie agrees to loan Mick and Elaine another &pound

Danny sets out to prove to Jimmy that he could use forged certificates to get a job. Cassie is sent home from work, suffering from delayed shock. Ron examines the books of "Bar Brookie" behind Jacqui's back, and Susannah finds that she is not pregnant after all.

Lindsey tells Jimmy she has been selected to "Sing Like A Star", but he is more surprised to hear who took her to the audition. Jacqui has her operation, but will it restore her sight? Julia gives some advice to Susannah, and Jimmy is nearly right in at the deep end as Danny proves his point.

Elaine wants to try to explain to Cassie. Rachel and Christian return from their honeymoon. Danny decides that there is only one career for Jimmy, and Jacqui is keen to get back to work - but will Ron tell her what has happened while she has been away?

Susannah offers to look after Jackie's baby. David warns Ron against his proposed business venture. Ollie tries to bribe Danny. Elaine is concerned when Cassie can't be found, and Jacqui's bandages are removed.

After hearing her calling out during the night, Danny asks if Eleanor is religious. Elaine wants to report Cassie's disappearance to the police, but then she turns up. Christian moves into the spare room, Jimmy decides to become a teacher, and a party and a few surprises await Jacqui on her return home from hospital.

Max has to choose between trying to get Susannah pregnant or going to Ollie's card school. Cassie cannot keep quiet about what Elaine has told her - but who will she tell? Jimmy threatens to make things worse for Mick if his involvement with Gladys's healthcare during her dying days is mentioned.

When Rachel shows Jacqui her honeymoon photos, she finds that those taken on the beach are missing. Mick thinks Sinbad and Jimmy are talking about him - and soon, they are. Ollie finds Danny indulging in a bit of fraud, and an erotic video that Max gets Susannah turns out to be not quite what they expected. [ Channel Four apologises to any viewers of this episode who were embarrassed by the storyline featuring Max and Susannah Farnham ]

David feels that Ron has behaved unethically by becoming Jacqui's business partner without telling her. Cassie walks in on Mick and Elaine having a party with the children, and refuses to stay. Katie insists on frisking Leanne before allowing her back into "Bar Brookie" to talk to Jacqui. Christian tells Rachel he is disappointed in her.

Elaine wants to tell Tanya what she has done before Cassie reveals all, but she may have left it too late. Jacqui and Ron buy new clothes for Leanne's court case. Christian tries to postpone his visit to Bristol with Rachel.

Ollie and a reluctant Danny help Eleanor move into her new premises. Jacqui plans to ensure that the court know what Leanne is capable of, but will she get the chance to speak? Jimmy tries to brush up his interview technique, but it is Mick and Elaine who are being interviewed by the police.

Ron invites everyone to "Bar Brookie" to celebrate his new partnership. Eleanor tries to reassure Mick and Elaine. Jimmy is interviewed for a PGCE course, and Susannah wonders if she should see a doctor.

Eleanor advises Jacqui that she is probably stuck with Ron as a partner. When Susannah's doctor refuses to send her for tests, she decides to go private. Katie finds that she is surplus to requirements at "Bar Brookie" and is being redeployed nearby. Elaine wants to do a runner - can Mick convince her to stay?

Christian attempts to manipulate Rachel into giving up her job. The Dixons return to court to hear the verdict of Leanne's trial, but will they be satisfied with the outcome? Discovering that Mick has told Sinbad and Jimmy the truth about Gladys, Elaine decides it is time to tell Tanya - but how will she react?

There is friction in "Bar Brookie" when Ron is determined to protect his investment, and in church when Jackie and Jimmy still can't agree on the name with which their baby is to be christened. Jacqui can't believe that Rachel is giving up her job, while Susannah sees a specialist and arranges for a further check-up.

Sinbad tries to persuade the kids to go back to school. Carmel tries to make plans for the future. Jacqui wants to deny Ron's pork scratchings and Ottersburn Mild access to "Bar Brookie". Susannah is confident about her tests.

Sinbad moves out of the Corkhills' to join Carmel. Mick goes to ask Mr Thornton to keep an eye on Leo and Gemma, and is asked to step down as school governor. Christian needs a new pair of shoes, but is unlikely to accept Rachel's advice. When Jacqui wins a free trip to America, she knows exactly what to do with it.

Danny, fed up with being served muesli for breakfast just because Eleanor prefers it, rebels by skipping school and getting into a stolen car with Tinhead. Elaine is told that she and Mick will have to engage different solicitors. Susannah has a new idea about how she might replace the void left by the loss of Matthew and Emily.

The police make further enquiries around the Close, and Elaine feels that it is time for a family holiday away from the gossips. Kylie starts school, Jimmy starts college, and Rachel starts a new job which doesn't impress Jacqui. Susannah is determined to adopt a child.

When Ollie plans not to give Jimmy a full discount on his college textbooks, Danny takes matters into his own hands. Sinbad is forced off the road by a maniac driver, and believes he saw Tinhead in the car. Then the petrol station has to be evacuated.......

The Farnhams seek advice on adoption, but may not like the outcome. Jimmy's first day of teacher training goes slightly wrong when he dismisses a class half an hour early. Rachel is assaulted while delivering leaflets, but Christian does not react the way she might have hoped.

Jimmy finds his course hard going. Max tries not to give up hope, but Susannah is despondent. Ollie plans to impress Eleanor with his cooking, but Danny muscles in. Tinhead is fed up with Sinbad, and steals Jacqui's bag. Rachel annoys Christian again by giving up her job.

Max and a reluctant Susannah go for counselling, but will it do any good? Carmel tries to talk to Tinhead about the handbag theft. Jimmy is burning the midnight oil, but still can't make the progress he needs to. Danny continues to come between Ollie and Eleanor.

Jackie invites Sinbad to move back in. Danny and Tinhead remove the evidence which shows who committed the handbag theft. Susannah turns her energies to cleaning. Julia agrees to look after two children, but only returns one. Rachel and Christian go shopping for china, but nothing is ever that simple.......

Jackie refuses to believe that Susannah didn't abduct her baby. Carmel tries to encourage Sinbad to move back in with her. Jimmy thinks his new career may already be over. A night out at "Bar Brookie" causes yet more grief for Rachel.

Christian still isn't speaking to Rachel. Lisa takes Susannah shopping. Lindsey is filmed for "Sing Like A Star" at the pizza-parlour, but who will be the co-star? Sinbad catches Tinhead stealing a car, then has to join him on the run. Ben has a surprise for Jacqui, but how will she react?

Sinbad doesn't get any thanks for helping Tinhead out of trouble. Jimmy receives a grant cheque - but it's almost all already spoken for. Danny has a few confessions to make to Ollie, and Christian starts talking to Rachel again, mainly to argue with her.

Jimmy needs to borrow some gear for a field trip, and finds someone nearby who has it. The Johnsons return, but a shock awaits them. Max comes up with another option which may enable him and Susannah to have another child.

Susannah comes to a conclusion about Max's idea, and goes back to work. Elaine and Mick attend their committal hearing. Jimmy soaks his feet in vinegar, then returns it to the chip shop - and Ben almost chokes on a toenail he finds in his vinegar-soaked chips......

Jimmy goes off on his field trip. Elaine refuses to let Tanya go back to school, and tries again to persuade Mick to do a runner. The Farnhams put their proposal to Lisa, but will she agree? Tinhead fools with fireworks, with devastating consequences.

Lisa stresses to Max and Susannah that she would prefer her eggs to be unfertilised. Mick has second thoughts about going on the run. Ron returns from Las Vegas to see Jacqui's new hairdo, and the O'Learys are on the move because Tim has accidentally destroyed their house.

Mick finds out that the case against him was going to be dropped, but it isn't now. Danny assures Ollie that he is past his rebellion phase. Callum convinces Jacqui that she needs a bouncer. Jimmy returns what remains of the walking gear he borrowed.

Danny makes a mysterious phone call to arrange a secret meeting. Callum insists that Jacqui listens to his full "sales pitch". Tim has a preliminary interview for a new career. Lindsey takes Peter home, but Jimmy returns early and joins them for coffee.

Tim is optimistic about his chances. Ron feels that he can't turn his back on "Bar Brookie", despite what has happened to Mike. Sinbad tries to reassure Leo and Gemma about Mick, and Christian's mother arrives unexpectedly - but will he be pleased to see her?

Lindsey and Peter plan to go for a weekend away in Southport. Mick tries to persuade Cassie to change her statement. Ron and Jacqui are forced to agree to Callum's terms, and Bunty gives Rachel a makeover at the salon - but how will Christian react?

Ron needs to find a new tenant and a new home. Mick feels that his position is worse than ever - but has Sinbad found the solution? Christian tells Rachel about his childhood. Ollie's plans for a bath with Eleanor are interrupted, and so are Peter and Lindsey's plans for a quiet night out at "Bar Brookie".

The O'Learys arrive on the Close, as Ron moves in with David. But where will Mike go? Jacqui gets nowhere when she tries to reduce the weekly extortion payments. Eleanor tells Mick that changing his story might not help matters. Rachel has finally had enough, and exacts a horrifying revenge on Christian.

Ron and David discover that Mike has pitched a tent in their back garden. Carmel doesn't appreciate Julia telling her to keep an eye on "Skinhead". Max discovers that Susannah still doesn't want to give up on the idea of finding a surrogate mother. Rachel goes back to work and moves in temporarily with Jacqui, leaving Christian alone to rot.

Despite Max's reluctance, he visits a surrogacy agency with Susannah. Eleanor has little to tell Ollie about her past. Jackie tells Cassie that Mick has changed his story. Rachel finally allows someone to go into her flat and open the bathroom door.......

Jacqui looks for new ways to improve profits, but Callum has some "advice" for her. Peter and Lindsey return from their holiday. Susannah looks through Max's address book, in the hope of finding another potential surrogate mother.

It is Danny's custody hearing, but will he have any impact on the final decision? Carmel replaces Ron's furniture with her own, and encourages Sinbad to go jogging with Tim. A visit to a much busier "Bar Brookie" makes Susannah think she may have overlooked an ideal surrogate mother candidate.

Susannah insists that either she or Max sound out Jacqui as a prospective surrogate mother. Bel arrives at Ollie's - but which of them will Danny chose to live with? A face from Jimmy's past appears at Little Jimmy's grave.

Ollie reassures Eleanor that things will just be the same, but then she has a makeover. Ron offers Lindsey a gig, but what has Barry to offer? David investigates when Julia sees something very strange in the garden, and Max and Susannah put their proposition to Jacqui.

Eleanor finds out why Ollie objects to her new look, and wants to talk about it. Sinbad discovers that Rachel has gone to stay with Mandy. Barry warns Ron that it will not be easy to get rid of Callum. When Julia has a fright on a bus, an unlikely knight comes to her rescue.

Julia reveals what Tim has done, and Sinbad gets him a punchbag. Peter has a few things to say to Lindsey. When Ron suffers another attack, Jacqui makes a big decision.

Ollie and Eleanor disagree over a burst condom. Max discovers that he has volunteered to be Julia's driving instructor. Jacqui makes a deal with Barry, and the O'Learys throw a buffet for Tim as he prepares to leave.

Max discovers that Susannah has made a down-payment to Jacqui without getting any kind of receipt. Danny finds a pregnancy testing kit in the pedal bin. Tim undergoes rigorous testing at the army barracks, but will he pass?

Barry hopes that his attempts to chat up Lindsey will be more successful than his first try at ejecting Callum. Julia and David visit Ron in hospital. Max and Susannah try to strengthen their position. Ollie and Eleanor clear the air, and Tim receives bad news.

Ollie asks Eleanor to move in permanently with him, and she agrees to think about it. Tim explains why he is home early from the training camp, and Ben tries to reassure him. Mick receives news about Gladys, and Jacqui confides in Katie about what she is doing with a turkey baster.

Jackie is surprised to hear that Barry is going to take Lindsey to her audition in Norwich. Katie makes an important discovery about surrogacy contracts, and someone from Eleanor's past turns up unexpectedly just as she is moving in with Ollie.

Jacqui is fertile, but Max is away at a food show in Leeds. Louise returns, and Eleanor takes her to lunch - but will she tell Ollie? Cassie must decide whether to let Mick help with the reburial of Gladys.

Susannah gives Julia the day off to go and see Tim getting his award, but she manages to throw the Farnhams' plans into jeopardy first. Ron gets out of hospital, but Jacqui needs to be somewhere else. Barry sets about tying up another loose end.

Lindsey may not be able to finish things with Barry before Peter comes home. Tim gets into a fracas with Ron. Eleanor agonises over Louise, and Gladys is buried again.

David hears from Julia that Ron has been asked to organise the Christmas pantomime, but believes he should intervene. Jackie thinks it is time Lindsey stopped making a fool of Peter. Ollie and Eleanor find someone unexpected helping Danny with the washing-up. Rose Finnegan turns up at "Bar Brookie" looking for her husband.

Rachel moves back in with Jacqui and Katie. Mick tries to make arrangements for Leo and Gemma if he goes to prison. David has ideas for an unusual pantomime, and a role for Julia that doesn't involve driving. Barry refuses to give up on Lindsey - but she tells Peter she wants to marry him.

Mick and the children set off to see Josie. Eleanor has lunch with Louise, who has a few questions for her. Jacqui and Ron have both written to each other to say the same thing, and Mike's tent burns down - but is he inside it?

The morning after a heavy drinking session, Ben is horrified to discover who he wakes up with. Jacqui may have some news for Max and Susannah, and Peter invites Barry to his engagement party.

Katie worries that Eleanor may want to take her place at the office. Jacqui discovers that the rumours have already started regarding her involvement with the Farnhams - but is there anything to gossip about? Rachel's bed is for sale, but who will buy it? Lindsey asks Barry to leave her alone.

Katie is prepared to resign, but will she go through with it? The Johnsons return from Cornwall. Lindsey takes part in "Sing Like A Star", and the Farnhams may damage their relationship with Jacqui by insisting on another meeting with her.

Jacqui decides to sell part of the salon, but will she find a willing buyer? Carmel tries to reason with Tim, but he storms out again and returns with a friend. With Mick's trial about to begin, Christmas comes early at the Johnsons'. Ron discovers that the pantomime at the Legion is being planned without him.

Jacqui prepares to tell Max their deal is off, but can't find the right moment. Jimmy takes Jackie to the school Christmas dance - but how will she react to meeting his supervisor? Louise is disappointed to discover that her birthday is not noted in Eleanor's diary.

Eleanor obtains the telephone number of Louise's foster parents and calls them. Lindsey prepares for another gig, unaware that there are a few people who are interested in her movements and anxious to intervene. Mick appears in court, accused of murder.

A flu bug is striking down the cast of the pantomime, so Julia has to find some willing stand-ins, and thinks Jacqui would be perfect for the back end of the dragon. Eleanor is scared of how Louise will react to what she has done. Barry tries to rescue Lindsey from her latest Finnegan-related predicament.

Ron decides that he and David need a new image to set about impressing the landed gentry. Jackie comes home to find Barry in Lindsey's bedroom. Max panics when he hears that Peter is buying into the salon - but Jacqui and Peter soon have more reason to panic.......

Eleanor and Ollie meet Louise's foster parents. David and Ron go golfing, but will they meet any potential dates? Barry wants his payment from Jacqui, but he has already made sure she is not in a position to give it.

Jimmy plans to take over "Chips With Everything" if Mick goes to prison, but Mick may have other ideas. Ron and David go to the sherry and biscuit evening at the golf club, but which of them is correctly dressed for the occasion? Lindsey suspects that Barry arranged for Peter to be mugged and robbed.

Cassie visits the Johnsons on Christmas Day, but she may just be bringing more bad news for Mick. Ron reflects on his life as he turns 50. The Farnhams prepare for an important house-guest over Christmas, but she may not want to stay with them. Peter is perturbed about the present Kylie has received from Barry, but he doesn't know what Barry has given Lindsey.......

In a special 78-minute extended Christmas episode, Jackie and Jimmy decide that it is time for them to convince Barry once and for all that he must never see Lindsey again.

Mick must decide whether to see Elaine, Ron tries to improve his putting, Peter finds Lindsey's story difficult to believe, and careless driving causes a death on the Close.

Eleanor is reluctant to help Louise to find her father. An old face turns up unexpectedly at the chip shop. David and Ron celebrate New Year at the golf club dance, and there is a confrontation between Susannah and Jacqui over a kiss as 1998 arrives.