Episode 3571 (23rd July 1993)

Plot
Alma is annoyed that Mike didn't tell her he was going to the school to talk about Mark. Des refuses to accept regular money from Colin Barnes so that he can throw him out if needed. Mike tells Maggie it's clear the Comprehenive is not right for Mark. She becomes confused when he offers to pay for Mark to go to a Public school. She tells Mike she doesn't want Mark to leave her and throws him out. Alma finds it impossible to concentrate at the cafe and cuts her hand with a knife. Liz takes Colin on at The Queens full time. Tanya fancies him and is put out to see he's friendly with Liz. Mike apologises to Alma about keeping her in the dark. He tells her that he's offered to send Mark away to school. She is aghast when he says they can pay for it with her earnings. She refuses and walks out of the cafe, saying she quits. Raquel feels Gordon Blinkhorn doesn't compare with Colin and begins to go off him. Alma accuses Mike of playing with people until he gets bored with them - he's bored with her and he'll soon be bored with Mark. He assures her he loves her but Mark needs his help. Liz finds Colin exciting and enjoys having him around. Maureen tells Reg she'll be happy if they can find a way for Maud to live with them but yet live separate lives. Tracy goes into the Rovers for the first time, eating with Deirdre. They tell Ken that Mike wants to send Mark away to school. Liz tells Colin all about her separation. He makes it clear he likes her and kisses her on the cheek. She is stunned to see Andy has arrived back and seen the kiss.