Episode 2301 (25th December 1997)

Plot
Kim is rarely so vulnerable - but now finds herself between a rock and a hard place. Her baby is missing presumed kidnapped - and there's a strong possibility the blackmail calls she's been receiving are tied in. She's desperate not to tell the police the details of the blackmail which is about her involvement in the death of the 'lady of the lake' last Christmas. But all is not as it seems and after an unexpected visit, Kim, Steve and the police chase a new lead. Will baby James be all right? Young Andy wakes up in hospital surrounded by the Sugdens. Social worker Carmel is angry Billy deserted his son. But can the Sugdens keep their marriage difficulties under wraps and take Andy home with them for Christmas? Doug is desperate to win Kathy's affections again - despite her discovery about his wife. A horse and carriage arrives outside her house and Kathy, Rachel, Alice and Joseph are taken on a magical Christmas Day ride before stopping at a woodlands retreat which has been decorated with lights and tinsel, and laden with presents. Zak is astonished Sam never spilled the beans on Marlon after he'd been set-up for the hijack. And Lisa is shocked Marlon could have been so devious. There's only one thing for it - a time honoured Dingle trial. When Marlon walks in, Butch reveals they know everything and Zak informs him he's judge. For a moment the wayward Dingle thinks they are joking - but not for long. Despite his pleas for leniency Marlon receives the worst punishment possible.