Tracy Barlow’s plan to evict Billy Mayhew scuppered by an unlikely source

Tracy Barlow’s plans to evict recovering drug addict Billy Mayhew were scuppered when the former vicar found support from an unlikely source.

Tracy had been renting a room to Billy and Summer Spellman, but in the first of two Coronation Street episodes on Wednesday it was revealed he owed three months’ rent.

And Tracy reacted furiously when she discovered the real reason for Billy’s absence from the cobbles – he had been in rehab after becoming hooked on drugs.

Billy, hobbling on a crutch, was carrying a suitcase across the street when Tracy confronted him.

When Billy greeted her with, “hi”, Tracy replied, “I wouldn’t be surprised if you are”.

She then demanded to speak with him in private, but Billy insisted on Summer hearing what she had to say.

Tracy then replied: “Does this include you being a heroin addict? I don’t want an addict living above my shop.”

Summer then tried to defend Billy – but a furious Tracy hit back: “Once a junkie, always a junkie. Consider yourself evicted.”

But Billy found support from an unlikely source in Adam Barlow.

It was Adam who got Billy hooked on drugs after learning he was involved with the death of his mother in 2001.

In the first episode of the night, Adam refused to help Billy when he heard about his financial troubles.

But his stance softened when he realised Summer could also be made homeless.

Adam, a solicitor, found out Tracy had been duping the taxman and has not been declaring the income she receives through rent.

He confronted her and demanded she did not evict Billy and Summer – as well as wiping out his rent arrears.

Tracy was left lost for words by the ultimatum – but agreed.

Billy and Summer were then seen moving back into their home.

But Billy’s bad day was not over yet. Summer confronted him in the kitchen over the drama, and told him: “I am only living with you because I have to. As soon as I am old enough, I’m moving out.”

After it was revealed Billy was not going to be homeless, Daniel Brocklebank, who plays the former vicar, tweeted to thank fans for their messages.

He said: “Thanks for all your lovely messages about Billys’ return to @itvcorrie! It’s lovely to be back!”