The Faircloughs buy Sharon some earrings and a tool kit for her birthday. The wheels are nicked off Alec's van whilst he sleeps in it. Ron Sykes reveals Brian is homesick and didn't want to come home as he's getting settled and doesn't want to be disturbed again. Gail has a phone installed at the house. Len and Rita spoil Sharon's party by their presence. Sharon convinces them to leave them to it. Ron tells Gail that Brian is missing her but couldn't get leave. At the party Sharon is pleased when Steve Dunthorne tells her he fancies her. She is annoyed when her brother Wayne Gaskell turns up and starts causing trouble. Betty offers Alec the £40 back so he can get some new wheels and he accepts. When Wayne starts a fight with Steve, Sharon gets Len to return and sort Wayne out. Alec agrees to stay with Betty until his van is repaired. When all the guests are gone, Steve tries to get Sharon upstairs. Len throws him out, upsetting Sharon. Gail phones Brian and discovers he's in Cairo on leave.