Episode 2401 (12th August 1998)

Episode 2401
Production code	D976/96
ITV broadcast date	12th August 1998 (Wednesday)
Storyline writers	Greg Boardman Helen Eatock Andrew S. Walsh
Script editor	Gareth Roberts
Story editor	Stuart Blackburn (acting)
Writer	Mark Illis
Director	Oliver Horsbrugh
Executive producer	Keith Richardson
Producer	Kieran Roberts
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Next episode	13th August 1998

Plot

Eric is a desperate and broken man intent destroying the wine bar... and himself. All that stands between him and an untimely end is Marlon who out of a sense of loyalty or guilt has chanced across his boss he prepares to torch his former premises. At first Marlon thinks Eric's doing it for insurance reasons but it becomes painfully clear that in fact he intends to do away with himself as well. Eric threatens Marlon that he'll meet the same end unless he clears off and lets him get on with it. Marlon engineered Eric's final downfall when he lost his license, and his feelings of guilt go hand in hand with a genuine concern for his boss. Deep down he actually does like Eric. Bolstered by half a bottle of brandy he pours out his emotions in a cascade of self-pity and recrimination. Everyone hates him so why should they care? As the night passes Marlon tries every angle to get Eric to snap out of his malaise. Scott keenly avoids questions from his family about his unexpected arrival home. He's clearly hiding a deep secret - but at least for now he's not prepared to tell anyone what it is.

Cast

Regular cast

• Marlon Dingle - Mark Charnock
• Eric Pollard - Christopher Chittell
• Kelly Windsor - Adele Silva
• Scott Windsor - Ben Freeman
• Lyn Hutchinson - Sally Walsh
• Heather Hutchinson - Siobhan Finneran
• Terry Woods - Billy Hartman
• Kirsty Hutchinson - Anne Marie Jowett
• Viv Windsor - Deena Payne
• Vic Windsor - Alun Lewis

Guest cast

None.

Locations

• The Old School Tea Rooms/Pollard's - Main area and exterior
• Village Store, Post Office & Off-Licence - Back room
• The Woolpack - Back room
• Tenant House - Exterior

Notes

• TV Times synopsis: Pollard plans to end his own life - and take Marlon with him. Kelly is suspicious about Scott's return. Heather tries to get through to Kirsty.
• Viewing Figures: UK broadcast - 10,300,000 viewers (9th place).