FOR anyone still mourning the loss of Channel 4's ground-breaking soap Brookside, this release is a must-see, helping to tie up the loose ends from the final televised episode as well as previewing future releases.

The viewer sees Tim O'Leary finally avenge the death of his wife Emily in a gritty and violent episode set in the Welsh countryside with his ex-boxer henchman Steve Murray along for support.

And, without giving too much away, life ends up looking really rosy for the terrible duo after an unexpected windfall and new business partnership with two stunning women.

Not many tears will be shed over the death in the episode as regular viewers have grown to love "Tinhead" whose character has developed from his early days as a scally into one of the soap's much-loved male characters.

The release comes with many "Extras" including a Top Ten featuring some of the soap's most hard-hitting and emotional storylines.

This was the soap that covered everything from incest, domestic violence, rape and murder but also had plenty of happiness and could make the viewer laugh as well as cry.

As a lifelong Brookie fan, I will really miss the regular episodes. However, the news that director Phil Redmond is planning to release new episodes of the Scouse soap is fantastic. Perhaps we will see Barry's wedding to Lindsay, see how Ron and Bev get on in their new home, or see Antony Murray grow up and shed his nightmares about Imelda.

Already promised is a feature on Brookie's favourite hardman Barry Grant and his battle to avenge his brother Damon's violent death. This was alluded to in the soap's final episode with Barry disappearing for a few days so regular viewers will want to see want went on during the missing days.

Another release previewed is one of Brookside's Top 100 moments which, for fans, will be another must-see.

Perhaps Channel 4 will, one day, revive Brookside or even show repeats of the soap from its early days. But at least, for us dedicated fans, Brookside lives on and I'm sure plenty will put this release at the top of their Christmas present list. AG