Pauline is worried about Arthur being unemployed and he realises that people will think he could have another nervous breakdown if he is unemployed again. Colin loses the key to his bicycle lock and he and Barry are questioned by police when Barry tries to cut through the chain with a hacksaw.

Colin gets increasingly frustrated at Barry's messiness in the flat, and eventually goes on cleaning strike. Mary cleans her flat from top to bottom and anxiously awaits her mum and dad's visit, eager to see Annie again. Ethel and Sharon each bring presents to welcome Annie back. Ian continues to skive college.

Lou braces herself for a meeting with Uncle. Colin asks Barry to get Kathy to visit him at their flat. Mary resists her parents sweet talk, wanting to know when she can have Annie back. Wicksy and Magda are keen to buy a place in Albert Square before they are all snapped up by city folk. Guizin is worried that once Martin Hunter's documentary is broadcast, Walford house prices will go through the roof and the area will become as bad as Wapping.

Martin Hunter returns to the Square to make his TV documentary. Arthur has a surprise for Pauline. Sharon seeks solace in a church, alone, where she catches the eye of a young curate, Duncan Boyd. Sue returns after her impromptu break.

Mary is worried because today is the day the health visitor, social worker, and Doctor Legg are going to discuss her case. Naima's cousin Farrukh returns, and they both agree to close the shop, marry in Birmingham and return to Bangladesh as soon as they can.

Ian is mugged in a dark alley and has his wallet stolen. At the same time, someone throws a brick through Ali and Sue's window. Ian starts thinking about getting a knife for protection. Naima and Farrukh leave the Square to marry and start a new life together.