Coronation Street’s Lou Michaelis sparks total chaos in jail next week, as she attacks a fellow prisoner in a wild ploy to keep Debbie Webster out of trouble.

With Debbie’s dementia symptoms worsening behind bars, she starts to antagonise one of the guards – forcing Lou to step in before things escalate…

“From horrible neighbour to hero of the hour – Lou’s come a long way in the space of a year,” explains our Corrie source.

“As Debbie’s behaviour starts to spiral, Lou quickly realises that this could ruin her chances of a successful appeal. But not on Lou’s watch…”

Trouble begins as Lou and Debbie head back to their cells together. When Debbie suddenly becomes disorientated, Lou is frantic with worry.

Things get even worse the next day when Debbie angrily accuses one of the prison officers of stealing her journal. Lou watches on anxiously, aware that Debbie may be confused and this situation can’t end well…

Desperate to cause a distraction, Lou picks a nasty fight with one of the other prisoners. It works a treat, as Debbie’s missing notebook soon becomes the last thing on anyone’s mind.

“There are probably smarter ways to divert attention, but Lou isn’t known for being subtle,” continues our insider. “It’s incredible to see her going to such lengths for Debbie’s sake, as there’s a real danger that this could extend her own time behind bars.”

Later in the week, everything seems to be back on track for Debbie as Kevin and Jack Webster pay her a visit. They pass on the news that Adam Barlow is feeling optimistic about her appeal, raising hopes that she could come home soon.

Away from the visiting room, Lou surprises Debbie by handing over a lucky clover that she made during woodwork class. She hopes it will bring the positive vibes that Debbie needs when she faces her appeal the next day.

“Debbie’s touched that Lou is being so thoughtful,” adds our mole. “If the pair ever make it back to the outside world together, Lou’s certainly earned herself a few free stays in the Chariot Square Hotel…”