CORONATION STREET

Just four weeks into January, and I’m excited – and stressed. In Corrie, there’s another ‘surprise’ pregnancy (why change the birth control habits of a lifetime?) and another disappointment with one. Phelan continues to get away with murder, literally and metaphorically, and certain people haven’t worked off the calories from the Quality Street in which they indulged over Christmas (you know who you are).

However, Emmerdale’s Robert appears to have been working out, as has EastEnders’ Jay; even Corrie’s Robert has been jogging. Well, he has the time. With no kitchen supplies delivered since December, he’s yet to have an argument with a single carrot.

EastEnders has begun the year as it ended 2017, with producer John Yorke delivering plenty of humour along with more believable storylines. Arshad and Mariam are inspired additions, and both actors have sublime comic timing, making them instant favourites.

With Mel also back, this already looks like it will be EastEnders’ year. All we need now is for Karen to fall into a tumble dryer at the launderette and all my soap New Year’s wishes will have been granted.

PREGNANT PAUSE PLOTS

With Toyah in tears about the surrogate losing the baby and Eva’s pregnancy confirmed (above), are we heading for a simple handover? Or (as I suspect) will Toyah pass off Eva’s child as the surrogate’s, or even her own? As Catherine Tyldesley ( Eva) is departing, it leaves an obvious plotline, especially when Toyah hears Peter say the baby will change his life. But can Toyah not smirk for nine months in order to keep mum (as it were). Doubtful. Just as Peter won’t keep his mouth shut when he sees Aidan hugging Maria (inset).

Anna’s case is not looking good when Tim