Episode 3545/3546 (29th September 2003)

Plot
Elaine should have taken her father’s advice to stay well clear of Robert. When she agrees to go for a drive with him it turns out to be a journey from hell. Randy Robert tries it on one too many times, upsetting Elaine who tells him to keep his hands to himself. Clearly not concentrating on the road, miffed Robert loses control and the car collides with a nearby tree, before coming to a halt. Moments later terrified Robert comes around to find Elaine unconscious in the passenger seat. Unsure whether she is dead or alive, Robert panics as he realises he may have just killed his girlfriend. But Elaine’s life isn’t the only thing on Robert’s mind, as he selfishly worries that he will lose his licence and livelihood if the authorities find out he was responsible for the crash. In a state of shock Robert staggers from the car and moves Elaine from the passenger seat, placing her behind the wheel, to give the impression she was driving. Andy arrives just in time to witness his foolish actions, pleading with his brother to tell the truth to the authorities. As he waits for the ambulance, Robert tries to compose himself. Elaine’s life hangs in the balance as he prepares to lie to the police and her family about who was driving. The Marsdens arrive at the hospital, with distraught Ronnie venting his anger at Robert. The family are horrified to learn that Elaine could have a fracture in her skull which may cause disability or even be fatal. Anxiously they all wait to hear results of the scan. Rodney finally gets his planning permission for the property, allowing him to pay off his debts to the loan shark and secure the deal with the buyer. Pollard’s change of heart is bought on when Gloria gives her husband an ultimatum of his marriage or the million pounds. Threatened by the blossoming relationship between Steph and Eric, Gloria also decides to spend less time in London and more time at her husband’s side. Although Danny is thrilled that Ollie has been granted a university place, he struggles to see their relationship surviving the long distance. He summons the courage to tell her that he doesn’t want her to go to Manchester alone, but Ollie is adamant that a weekend relationship can work. Reluctantly, Danny splits up with his girlfriend, telling a tearful Ollie that if he can’t see her all the time then it’s not going to work. Len organises a celebratory party for his grandaughter, however the occasion is marred by the news of the car crash and situation between Ollie and Danny.