Coronation Street airs upsetting scenes for Debbie Webster next week as she realises that her dementia is getting worse after an awkward encounter with Tim Metcalfe.
When Sally Metcalfe invites her closest friends to a garden party, the gang are upset by a momentary memory lapse from Debbie that brings home the reality of her illness…
“Because Debbie is so full of life, it’s sobering when you get a reminder of her condition,” explains our insider. “Tim is devastated after what happens, and it leads to Debbie making an important decision.”
The drama starts as Sal takes advantage of the recent hot weather and throws an al fresco soiree for her pals.
It’s good timing for Debbie, who has just arrived back from a getaway with husband Ronnie Bailey.
Debs, along with Bernie Winter-Alahan, Mary Taylor, Fiz Dobbs and Christina Boyd, arrive at the Metcalfes’, where snobby Sal unveils her latest purchase – an outdoor pizza oven!
Tim keeps the gang topped up with cocktails as the food is cooking, while Sally orders him to fire up the hot tub.
Everyone’s having a ball, until Tim brings over some snacks to the table and things take an unexpected turn.
All of a sudden, Debbie’s mood changes and she lays into Tim…
“Debbie doesn’t recognise Tim and accuses him of leering at the ladies in their swimsuits,” explains our spy.
“Tim is shaken and Mary must gently explain to Debbie who he is. Poor Debbie is mortified.”
After apologising to Tim for having a go, Debbie decides she’s packing in the booze to help her keep a clear head. But does this incident mean she’s deteriorating faster than expected?
Speaking earlier this year, Sue Devaney – who plays Debbie – told us: “I think there is a long way to go for Debbie. There’s a lot more fun to be had. You do see her deteriorating and that’s really upsetting, but you still see the Debbie that I love to play – the fun Debbie!
“It’s Debbie in all her glory. You see her with her friends and that’s lovely. She’s doing all the things that she’s always wanted to do in life.”
