The Verdict: 'Emmerdale's 5,000th

Emmerdale's been through a rough time over the last number of months and I really do think that the show's 5,000th episode – which sees Val and Pollard's secret wedding day turn out in classic will-they-won't-they style – could be the turning point it needs.

I have to confess – I was pleasantly surprised.

It's an hour-long episode which really does encapsulate the true nature of ITV's rural soap – and riddled with welcome comedy along the way. Jo Gilgun's priceless comedic timing really shines through, while some classic one-liners from other favourites add to the light-hearted 60 minutes.

In brief, Pollard continues to plan his secret wedding to Val while his wife-to-be believes she's organised the 'Village Pub of the Year' contest. However, when Val's accidentally knocked unconscious the whole day's events are thrown into turmoil. Ingenious Eli believes the way forward is to hold Val to ransom, leaving Pollard frantic as to Val's whereabouts. But will Pollard cough up the £10k to 'save' his true love? And more importantly, will they actually tie the knot?

Other tid bits: Edna spends the whole episode 'stroking her Tootsie' (almost verbatim from the script); Antony Worrall Thompson in all honesty makes a rather strange cameo; and at various points throughout the hour, the Dingles' turkey takes centre stage.

All-in-all, a classic episode of Emmerdale history with all the hallmarks of the show's new producer, Anita Turner. If this is what she can produce, the show should really make the long-overdue U-turn it's needed.

If you haven't seen the Yorkshire-based soap in a while, it's well worth tuning in for. The celebratory episode - entitled 'What Price Love' - airs on Tuesday, June 3 on ITV1 at 7pm.

And check back next Tuesday on DS for an exclusive interview with the Dales' leading lady Anita Turner.



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