This article contains discussion of baby loss that some readers may find distressing.

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Lydia Dingle (Karen Blick) will provide a listening ear for the family of Emmerdale's April Windsor (Amelia Flanagan) next week, as the traumatised teen settles back in at home.

Viewers learned that April experienced a stillbirth while living on the streets, and she returned to the village in Friday's (7th February 2025) episode.

Ross Barton (Michael Parr) was happy to see April from afar, but she became overwhelmed when opening one of her Christmas presents, which had been left waiting for her.

April fled the house for some air, and although he continued to worry, Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock) decided to give his daughter some space.

Ending up at mum Donna's (Verity Rushworth) grave, April was joined by Ross, and she confided her pregnancy and the loss of her baby girl.

Meanwhile, Bob Hope (Tony Audenshaw) told Marlon that, in his experience of homelessness, it could make one feel less human. He advised that April simply needed time to adjust.

But Marlon wondered whether it was best to discuss the baby, or leave the choice to April. He couldn't help feeling hurt that April chose to talk to Ross instead of him; but ultimately, the fact she was speaking about it at all was a positive step.

A vulnerable April sits in a bleak hideout in Emmerdale
Amelia Flanagan as April Windsor in Emmerdale. ITV

As Emmerdale picks up on Monday (10th February 2025), Marlon and wife Rhona Goskirk (Zoë Henry) will reach out to the only person they know who will understand April's feelings.

While living in care as a teen, Lydia had a stillborn baby boy who she named Toby.

Helpless and alone, Lydia buried Toby and changed her name, and only felt able to talk about what happened to her decades later.

Now, Lydia will put her own pain aside and open up to Marlon and Rhona about her own trauma.

Later, April is subdued as her parents struggle through a delicate conversation about visiting the chapel of rest.

Once there, Marlon is transfixed by the sight of the tiny coffin, while an overwhelmed April rushes off.

A heartbroken Marlon is left alone to say a few parting words to his granddaughter.

Returning to Smithy cottage, Marlon and Rhona try once more to get through to April; but the pair are troubled by their daughter's apparent indifference after the emotional day.

Can April come to terms with her distressing situation?

Anyone affected by April's story can find support via Sands and can call their helpline on 0808 164 3332.

Emmerdale airs Monday to Friday at 7:30pm on ITV1. Stream on ITVX.

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Authors

Laura Denby
Laura DenbyFreelance Writer

Laura Denby is a Freelance Soaps writer covering all the latest news in the Dales, Cobbles and East End for Radio Times. She's a soaps nerd with a love for comedy drama, and has also written for Digital Spy, Metro UK and Yahoo UK.

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