The Archers

Heartbreak is in store for Lynda, and Freddie has his nose pushed out of joint.

It’s the day of the village fete. Chelsea’s upset over the cancelled launch of the horsebox salon. Whilst Amber donated styling tools, she has nothing to cut hair. Lilian arrives and promises to play fairy godmother. Keira says they need to wait for Khalil so they can hide in the horsebox to avoid the entrance fee. Lilian later arrives with a loan from Fabrice of everything Chelsea needs; Chelsea’s put too much effort into the horsebox for it to fall at the first hurdle. The big launch is back on! Keira asks Lilian how she persuaded Fabrice, and Lilian admits she’s agreed to be the face of his next promotional campaign. Lynda accosts Alan over his entrance fee, trying to persuade him to drop it. Alan insists it’s not ‘his’ entrance fee and is raising funds for the Church bell. They agree to drop the price. A soaked Alan is suffering from the queue at ‘Dunk the Vicar’, as Lynda brings him a strong coffee and an update. Carol’s scavenger hunt clues are too obscure, leading people to abandon it in favour of the beer tent. Monty refuses to leave the car, so Robert takes him home. When Khalil comes to enter him into the Pets Ring, Robert persuades Khalil to enter Ruby instead to help Lilian. When Alan tries to hide in the horsebox Khalil insists he must have a haircut to stay. As Chelsea is grabbing lunch, Khalil starts to have a go before Keira can stop him. Chelsea arrives back to save the haircut, giving Alan a new look.

Finding themselves with a couples’ counselling appointment that Harrison and Fallon rejected, Kenton and Jolene playfully decide to attend. To their surprise, the session reveals a lot about their relationship. They miss being more free – the travel and the music. They are stuck in a rut and don’t want that. It’s time to shake things up a bit! George goes back to the hospital, where a hairline wrist fracture is discovered. He’ll be in a cast for six weeks and off work a further six. This is terrible timing for them both as well as Esme. Returning his phone charger, Keira visits Brad. She is upfront with her big question – is he over Amber? He can’t deny it and confesses he’s had a crush, in the past. But realising how good Amber and George are together, and how grown up their situation is, he knows he can’t compete. As he stumbles on his meaning, Keira catches on to something more – did he sleep with Amber? Defending himself, he admits that they’d kissed on New Year’s Eve and Keira furiously runs off. Finding her later in her secret hiding place, George tries to get Keira to reveal what’s happened, but she decides to cover the truth. Meanwhile in The Bull, Amber convinces Brad to tell her what he knows about Keira. He tells her it was truly an accident – but that he’s told Keira about the kiss. Amber is stunned. She loves George! How could Brad do that, and what if George finds out?

With 6 weeks to go until her due date, Amber is feeling huge and is surrounded by boxes of baby products to promote on her socials. She asks Keira why Poppy seems off with her. Keira seems unconcerned and says it will blow over but says she’ll ask her sister. After finishing a pre-natal yoga class at Grey Gables, Amber bumps into Brad on his way to work and there’s an awkward tension between them. Amber wants to help replenish Chelsea’s stolen beauty products. Brad asks about the baby and Amber realises, with a jolt, that she hasn’t felt it move all day. With rising panic she’s determined to drive to the hospital and, unable to reach George, Brad goes with her. Meanwhile, alone at Meadow Farm, George slips from the tractor onto his wrist. In pain, with a very swollen wrist, he calls Eddie to take him to hospital, ignoring several calls from Brad… Relieved that the midwife has given the all-clear, Brad tells Amber that he thinks she’s amazing. Meanwhile in A&E, George is frustrated with the waiting time and the lack of phone signal. Deciding to go home and take painkillers instead, his phone comes back to life, and he realises that Amber’s in hospital too. After an emotional reunion in the car park, it becomes clear to Brad that George and Amber truly care about each other. Alone, George and Amber tenderly reassure each other. They are just keen for this baby to get here safely.

When Eddie visits Ed at Home Farm, he deliberately puts Ed in a difficult position by letting Brian know about Ed’s tree surgery job for Martyn Gibson. Ed comes clean – that he’s been well paid on the understanding that he tells Martyn how things are going at Home Farm. Martyn wants to see if the BL contract is under control. Brian is furious and feels betrayed by Ed. However, Eddie hatches a plan with Brian. Ed should keep supplying Martyn with information – but only information authorised by Brian. Ed’s sceptical as he’s a terrible liar. Brian retorts that Ed owes it to him, even if it makes him uncomfortable. It’s payback. Chelsea is making final plans for her hairdressing venture launch ahead of the fete, including an introductory offer. Entering the horsebox, she’s horrified to find it ransacked and her hairdressing bag of equipment missing. Everything she needs to launch the business has been taken, including her hairdryer. Later, when Harrison helps her retrace her steps, she reveals that although she visited a DIY store the day before, she couldn’t fully remember locking up outside the house last night. She blames herself, knowing that she’s probably made an insurance claim invalid. Harrison reassures her, telling her ways to make the horse box and contents more secure in the future. Jazzer encourages her to get help from family – for example borrowing her mum’s quality dryer. Distraught, Chelsea realises it will take her ages to get the funds for replacement equipment but is determined that it’s her problem to fix.

As Keira helps Eddie prepare cider bottles, they discuss the forthcoming ‘fete worse than death.’ Eddie is put out by the cost of putting the ferrets into the pet competition, on top of the £5 entry fee. Keira loves being part of the process of cider making and adores traditions. Perhaps they could wassail in January and sing to the apple trees? Eddie entertains her with stories of the kissing boughs he made in his youth and his first kiss. Although it’s too late now to grow something for the Flower and Produce Show, perhaps Keira could make a Cider Cake and fly the Grundy flag? These craft skills are passed down through the generations and soon they’ll be celebrating the next Grundy.Bert grumpily thanks Neil for making him lunch, saying he’s only bad-tempered because his toenails are too long – Jazzer would normally cut them - could Neil? Calling on Jazzer, Neil is advised to watch more telly with Bert and bond over war films. Speaking of the foot care, reading aloud and special purchases for Bert, Jazzer is amazed. He’s never done them, Neil’s been had! Returning home, Neil makes Bert uncomfortable by suggesting a vulnerable heart to heart chat. Neil also welcomes Jazzer for a toe-clipping session, with the kitchen scissors. Bert’s been rumbled and apologises. Neil and Jazzer insist they’ll take Bert to The Bull, but the drinks are on him.

Neil is caring for a demanding Bert, who is rejecting salad and insisting that Jazzer would have done him some chips. Bert nags Neil to fetch him some special salty liquorice he knows Underwoods sell. Later, Neil acknowledges he can’t be there for Bert as much as Jazzer was at Tracy’s, but that he’ll try – and reveals he’s bought the liquorice. Bert tries it and can’t stand it – insisting that Jazzer would never make him eat it!As Ed and Eddie plan a surprise roast dinner for Emma’s upcoming birthday, Neil calls in. Eddie unwittingly reveals that Ed has done some tree surgery for Martyn Gibson. Astonished, Neil asks if this is a bribe - is Ed spying on Brian for BL? Ed insists he’s not – it’s just good money, and he’s not told Martyn anything… well not much. And it’s all been to reassure Martyn so there’s no problem. Martyn can’t make him tell him anymore, and Brian won’t find out.Kenton suggests a curry night to Harrison to chat, and wonders if he’d consider couples’ counselling, as there’s a woman recommended in Borsetshire. Harrison says he’ll ask Fallon. At the pub, Kenton cajoles Fallon into joining Harrison for a drink and they both receive a phone message – a consent form for a counselling session. They both don’t want to go, and Kenton protests that it’s non-refundable. Fallon and Harrison reflect on the fact that they no longer want to fight for their marriage, but acknowledge that the years they did have, they don’t regret.

Both Jolene and Kenton appear evasive to Fallon, who wants to discuss arrangements for her replacement when she leaves The Bull. Eventually cornering her mum, Fallon pushes that her replacement needs sorting, and that the Cruck Barn job at Lower Loxley is an amazing opportunity. Jolene can’t see why she wants to leave an award-winning pub where she’s been central to its success. Fallon disagrees – this is a chance for her to re-boot and create something new.Confiding in Joy, Jolene shares that she finds Fallon’s move hasty and a bit selfish, being from a pub family where they all work together. Joy points out that Jolene’s always taken opportunities in her career and Fallon’s no different – she needs to let Fallon find her own way.Jazzer and Ed are discussing the Fallon and Harrison split and propose a night out to Fallon who says she’s too tired. When Kenton cautions drinking ahead of work on a Monday, Fallon rebuffs him by agreeing to go. Returning later, a tipsy Fallon wants a night cap, but Kenton pushes coffee for all three of them, who’ve been to a few pubs. Unimpressed, Kenton is protective and suggests to Ed that a night out with two blokes so soon after her marriage break-up was not a good move. Jazzer reminds Kenton that the three of them have been mates for decades and it’s exactly what she needed. Kenton disagrees – Fallon is vulnerable and she’s family and even old friends aren’t going to stop him looking out for her.

Chris is already back in his flat and Neil wonders why Susan isn’t angry with her Dad. As Susan continues looking after Bert, Neil apologises and Susan explains that it’s the least she can do. Susan also notes how awful Bert’s own father was, explaining some of Bert’s behaviour and attitudes. Susan knew Bert loved his children because he wasn’t like his dad. Neil suggests that Susan explains this to Chris. Harrison reminds Fallon that Woodbine Cottage is still her home. Now she’s back from Lynda and Robert’s, Harrison is keen to let Fallon settle, and has moved some things to the spare room. Alan discusses fete woes with Jolene, who stops Harrison to hug him and remind him he’s still part of the family and no one is taking sides. Alan walks with Harrison and also lends an ear. Harrison feels he should have tried harder to save his relationship, but Alan urges him to stop blaming himself – he and Fallon now just need to be kind to each other. Fallon is standoffish with Jolene, who’s still sceptical about the new Lower Loxley job and tries to persuade Fallon to stay at the Bull. But Fallon points out that her break-up hasn’t happened suddenly, and now she’s finally ready to take control. Fallon’s touched when Harrison supports her decision about working at Lower Loxley. Harrison is going to look for somewhere to rent, but Fallon says there’s no need just yet. Having agreed that they’ll make things work, they wish each other good night.

Susan mildly berates Bert for opening an early beer in the garden. Alice pops over and is friendly with Bert, who mutters to Neil about hiding his beer. Neil teases Chris over Lottie, and Chris bats away his comment about marriage. Chris is defensive when Bert jokes about all Martha’s parent figures. With Alan and the fete starting to get a bad name, Lynda’s shocked that Susan has introduced some ticket concessions. But some people will be prevented from attending – and some who will just boycott. Lynda is convinced that Monty is innocent, as she and Robert await the DNA results from the sheep attack. She’s more concerned about the fete – they need to find a must-see attraction. They’re distracted by an argument in the road, between Ed on his combine and an angry speeding driver. As affectionate Monty cheers up Ed, Robert makes a comment that gives Lynda an idea.Chris admits to Alice that he suggested he and Lottie move in together, and is worried by Lottie’s reaction. Alice says to speak to Lottie, and reassure her he’s happy and not trying to pressure her.Chris heads home and is shocked to see Bert giving Martha a sip of his beer. Bert’s nasty comments about Alice, and mollycoddling, make Chris explode. Later, he informs Susan and Neil that he’ll contact Hazel to see about moving back into his flat. Susan tries to defend Bert’s actions, but when Chris doubles down on his criticism Susan loses her cool and says maybe he should move out.

Jolene presses Fallon to try and talk to Harrison and stop hiding at Lynda and Robert’s. She thinks Fallon and Harrison have rushed into their decision. Later, Fallon shocks Jolene by giving her notice to quit the Bull for a new job at Lower Loxley. Jolene worries it’s too much upheaval given her break up, but Fallon has decided. Brad admires Bert’s view from his room at Ambridge View, but Bert’s still unhappy about Susan’s rules on smoking and riding his mobility scooter into the village. He also takes the opportunity to share his other gripes with Brad – Neil is quiet and under the thumb, and Chris is too soft on Martha, who’ll grow up to be as spoilt as Alice!Bert winds Chris up as Chris explains that Martha is staying over at Lottie’s, with her daughter Maddie, for the first time tonight. Bert says to watch his back with single mum Lottie. Chris turns the tables on Bert, who defends Ivy, Chris’s grandmother, as a saint. Brad makes to leave, and Bert tells him not to open his birthday card until tomorrow – it may have a little something inside. Chris complains to Brad about Bert and their shared living arrangement. But he’ll be back in his own place in a week. At Lottie’s, the two girls play together well. Chris seems resolved about Alice being with Rex, and Chris feels it’s the start of a new era, for him and Lottie too. Perhaps they should move in together sometime? Lottie is a bit taken aback, and Chris backtracks.

Alice remarks on how little stuff Rex needs to move in with her. He brandishes an old poultry ledger of his grandfather George Fairbrother, with some entries possibly from his aunt Grace. Alice advises Rex on decorating his boat, ready to rent out to holidaymakers. She’s grateful that he’s giving up his beloved boat to be with her. But a sudden request from Fallon to come over to Alice’s scuppers tonight’s romantic evening. Supportive Alice is firmly on Fallon’s side when they talk about a pivotal moment - Fallon’s miscarriage, and Harrison’s erratic reaction. Harrison just wasn’t the support that her friends were, including Alice. Having got past her own demons, Alice encourages Fallon, who’s excited about her new job at Lower Loxley, but nervous about breaking it to Jolene and Kenton. Chris visits Harrison and can’t believe it’s over with Fallon. Harrison confesses that he could have returned home to Fallon six months sooner, and she didn’t even get angry when he told her. Perhaps they shouldn’t have married, given their different views about having children? Chris comforts Harrison, who feels he ran away when they hit problems, in contrast to Chris who was there for Alice. Chris visits Alice to return a comfort toy for Martha, and it appears Rex has already got Martha off to sleep. Chris and Alice reflect on Harrison and Fallon. They’ve made things work, though, and will be there for the ex-couple. Chris heads off, with Rex surprising Chris with a few old bits and pieces of Chris’s found in a wardrobe, from his time with Alice.

Susan insists Bert smokes outside while at Ambridge View, and for him to see it as a chance to cut down. Chris arrives to look after Bert while Susan heads to work at the shop, warning Bert not to ride his scooter into the village.As Martha forages in the garden, Chris asks Bert not to smoke in front of her. Bert teases Chris about Brad saving his bacon at cricket yesterday. He also quizzes Chris about Lottie and notes he was never a fan of Alice. Offended, Chris prepares to leave with Martha, but Bert asks for a lift into the village.At the shop, Chris complains about Bert to Susan and buys fete tickets for himself and Lottie, noting under-12s go free. Bert grumbles about not getting a concession until Susan relents and offers him one.Lynda is impressed by Robert’s progress painting the shepherd’s hut, and they discuss finishing it with decorative lantern hooks made by Chris. They reflect on their decades in Ambridge and talk about fete preparations, including Alan dealing with complaints about having to pay for entry.Fallon is grateful to be staying with Lynda and Robert and checks that it’s still alright. They reassure her and offer her privacy, though Lynda also invites her to help with fete planning. Fallon contributes an idea to support Alan’s bell-naming initiative but admits she doesn’t have the headspace to join the fete committee. Lynda understands.When Chris asks after Harrison, Fallon realises he doesn’t know they’ve split up. He is shocked by the news, and Fallon asks him to reach out to Harrison because she’s worried about him.

Chris is stressing at being several players down, including Harrison, against the Not Outs today. He persuades Brad to come back to play for the Battling Bulls. Chris is also anxious about his living arrangements, now that he, Martha and his Grandad Bert will be staying with Susan and Neil.Fallon is late for work at the Bull, and has a shock for Kenton and Jolene – she and Harrison have split up. Kenton and Jolene try to understand what happened, but Fallon admits that they just realised they can’t get back what they had. Kenton goes to see Harrison, presuming Harrison was up to something when he was away, or knowing that he didn’t love Fallon, and berates Harrison for stringing her along. But Harrison denies that and shows how down and sorry he feels. He feels a real disappointment to Kenton. Kenton implores Harrison to try and make things work, but it’s too late – Harrison doesn’t want to lose Kenton and Jolene as family, but at least Harrison won’t be going far, for the time being, with his new job role. At the busy Bull, catering for the post-match cricketers, Kenton reports back to Jolene – Harrison seems broken. Jolene asks Fallon to come and stay with them, but she doesn’t need taking care of and focuses on keeping busy in the pub. Jolene reflects to Kenton that Harrison and Fallon will change their minds in time, when it sinks in just how much they’re losing.

Susan and Tracy rouse stubborn Bert, who joins them in the garden for a drink. Bert insists he isn’t sulking and points out that Tracy said some hurtful things at the pub. Whilst they agree not to discuss Clive, Susan has an idea for a proper shake-up – Bert will come and live with Susan, for a few weeks at least, to give Tracy some respite. Susan feels it’s time she did her bit. In Leeds for Harrison’s big night, he’s delighted that Fallon is with him, complimenting her on her dress. Harrison points out various colleagues and Fallon makes a comment about one in particular who clearly had a thing for him. He assures Fallon nothing happened, acknowledging that as a team they were close and had to look out for one another. Harrison steps up to make a speech as his team receives an award. Emotional Harrison gives a shout out to Fallon, who calls out I love you! Later, Harrison admits something to Fallon – he had the option of returning to her six months earlier but chose to stay on with the job, without discussing it. Fallon understands. This leads Fallon to be honest with Harrison and open up about how things have not been right between them, since her miscarriage and his reaction, and then her accusing him of bottling George. Harrison agrees that they are on different tracks. They agree it’s time to break up. But what do they do tonight? Too late to head home – they can have one last night together in the hotel.

It’s Tracy’s 51st birthday dinner at the Bull, and Bert makes the most of her staff discount, with Susan insisting on paying. They can’t help but mention absent Clive, who Bert defends. Apparently Clive is busy with a new venture and needs some investment. Tracy is quick to point out how Clive stole from Bert’s pension. Embarrassed Bert makes to get up, and Susan sighs at Tracy’s outburst. At the Bull, Elizabeth chases Fallon up about her new job offer at Lower Loxley. Fallon shares with Lynda her misgivings about people having to pay to attend the fete. Tracy snaps at Lynda about it, but mainly due to the situation with Bert. Fallon buys Lynda a drink and offers sympathy, with Lynda reciprocating as she asks about Fallon and Harrison. After a pep talk about deciding what you want, Fallon confirms to Elizabeth that she wants the job. From her garden, Carol sees Bert passing and wonders why he won’t stop to make a typically snarky comment about her gardening. As they chat, Carol comments on Clive and Bert wonders why everyone has it in for him. Carol doesn’t soft-soap Clive’s criminal past, but encourages Bert to stay in touch with him. She talks about her late son Richard, and Bert supports Carol’s idea of a memorial service to him. Later, with the party cut short, Tracy regrets her outburst. Bert clearly has a blind spot when it comes to Clive. Tracy knows that whatever she does for her dad, he’ll always choose Clive over her, and it hurts.

Carol seeks Alan’s forgiveness over her sensitivity about Richard the other day. Alan tells her there’s nothing to forgive – it was he who overstepped the mark. Carol explains that Alan had been right about the issues between her and Richard before he died. Richard didn’t approve of some of her decisions and didn’t attend his stepfather’s funeral. Carol’s never really spoken about it to anyone. She thinks she’d like to do something to commemorate Richard’s passing after all. Alan suggests she has a think about what she’d like. Bert’s and Susan make a good team at the Shop. Bert shocks Susan with news that the village fete this year is ticketed – at least the money is for charity. Tracy will be there to support Chelsea, but Bert reckons he should boycott. As they reminisce, Bert feels that it’s only down to his Ivy that the kids turned out so well. Susan’s worried to hear that Clive left Bert on his own for extended periods when Bert was staying with him. She twigs that Clive had access to Bert’s bank card. Susan admits to Tracy that she was right – Clive was stealing from their Dad and disappearing for days. Appalled Tracy learns that Bert is in denial. Susan feels guilty for doing nothing, despite her concerns. Angry Tracy feels guilty for putting her need for rest over Bert’s welfare. But Susan says the important thing is that Bert’s back now. They can’t say anything to Bert – or Clive – just focus on looking after Bert, and cutting Clive off.

Fallon tells her mum about the posh awards do. Jolene thinks she’s lucky – she should make a night of it. Later Jolene insists to Harrison that she’ll treat them to a nice hotel. Harrison’s touched but does his best to decline her offer. Alice tells Rex she hated the awkwardness between them the other night about where to sleep. Rex agrees. They both struggle with the issue of logistics when they spend nights together. Alice revisits the subject of Rex moving in. Rex is still up for it. Alice worries about him leaving his beautiful boat behind, but Rex is pragmatic. The boat’s tiny – he’ll miss it but he’s ready to move on. Alice offers to lend Fallon something to wear for Harrison’s awards evening. She confides she’s making room in her wardrobe ready for Rex to move in. Fallon’s delighted. Later Fallon accidentally reveals the news to shocked Chris, and immediately rings Alice to apologise for her faux pas. Alice assures her Chris will be fine once he gets used to the idea. Fallon admits to getting cold feet about going to Yorkshire with Harrison. Alice urges her to go and have fun – it might be just what they need.Chris chats to Harrison about the farrier calendar he’s featuring in, hoping his fake tan doesn’t still show. He and Alice are proud of Martha’s school community award. Harrison thinks it’s nice they can share those moments. Chris asserts he’s happy for Alice and Rex. Harrison admits he and Fallon are finding things hard. He’s not sure how he feels.

The fete committee is forging ahead with arrangements. All the usual attractions are organised, Carol’s been enthusiastically searching for clues for her scavenger hunt, and Chelsea’s horsebox is ready to launch. Lynda’s not entirely happy though; holding the fete on the Jubilee Field isn’t in keeping with tradition. Carol points out that neither is charging people for entry. Alan defends this decision. He doesn’t like charging either, but the fee’s modest and this year the money raised will help towards the church repairs. Later he confesses some concern over the decision to Carol, who tells him he needs to back himself. He supposes she’s right, and thanks her for her support. Carol confides Alan reminds Carol of her son Richard at times. Alan wonders if Carol’s considered a blessing for Richard, to give him a proper send off. Carol’s offended and closes off, telling Alan to leave. Susan has her hands full giving Bert his induction at the shop. He cajoles her into letting him handle a transaction, and successfully uses some sales tricks to persuade Lynda into an impulse purchase. He’s confident he can double Susan’s takings in time. He draws Susan into village gossip, admitting he missed that at Clive’s. Susan probes further but Bert clams up. He’s sick of being harangued. Later Susan admits to Chris that Bert’s been good company at the shop. Chris reckons Bert doesn’t like him – Brad’s his favourite, then Chelsea. Susan protests their granddad loves them all equally, he just struggles to express how he feels.

Rex is reluctant to tell Kate that moving Spiritual Home to the rewilding site is a no. Alice is equally unwilling – she doesn’t want to get involved. They talk about holiday ideas. Alice explains Fallon and Harrison can’t join them as Fallon reckons Harrison won’t get the time off. They agree to chat further, and Alice suggests they stay at hers tonight rather than on the boat. After the cricket Chris asks Harrison if something’s bothering him – he seemed to be off his game. Harrison assures him he’s fine, inviting Chris and Rex to watch the football at Woodbine later. Alice is welcome too, but she passes. She’s fine with Rex going, but she’s shattered and will stay home. Rex and Chris discuss Harrison. They resolve to hang in until he’s ready to talk.Fallon admires the revamped Cruck Barn at Lower Loxley. Elizabeth wonders whether she’s still up for running it. Fallon’s surprised by this. She points out that whilst they’d talked about it a few months ago, it’s happening sooner than she imagined and she needs to get her head round it. She’s thrilled at the prospect though – it could be brilliant. She asks Elizabeth for a few days to think about it. When she mentions the job to Harrison, he’s wrongfooted and initially lukewarm about the idea. Later he apologises. Of course Fallon should go for it. Likewise Fallon encourages Harrison to attend an upcoming awards ceremony for his team in Yorkshire. He wants her to go too, though understands if she doesn’t fancy it. But Fallon’s keen – count her in.

Outside The Bull, Jolene invites Fallon to drop in if she’s free for a coffee. Fallon and Harrison step on each other’s toes as they make breakfast. Harrison becomes distracted when a lead on Home Farm’s sheep attack comes in and rushes off.Over breakfast with Kirsty, Kate brings up her proposal for moving Spiritual Home to Rewilding Ambridge. A message from Tom asking to talk interrupts Kate’s pitch. Kirsty is still uncertain of the baby moving, but Kate promises soon they’ll be kicking her in the ribs. At Rewilding, Kirsty tries to persuade Rex to be the one to reject Kate’s plan. Tom turns up and apologies. He is really pleased for Kirsty and thinks she’ll be a wonderful mother. Kirsty says she’s living on hope with this baby. Kate turns up and Rex is left to tell her the bad news for Kirsty.Lynda is on Village Fete duty, and Jolene agrees to run the beer tent again. Fallon swings by for that coffee, and Lynda asks when Fallon is free for fete matters. Fallon suggests this afternoon which delights Lynda. Jolene states she must be bored without Harrison to be spending a Friday afternoon on the village fete. Lynda asks how Harrison is settling back in, stating from experience that it’s not always a smooth process. Harrison arrives to speak to Lynda on official business. The DNA from the sheep attack has come back and reveals it was a Doberman. Lynda’s Monty is the only Doberman in the village. Lynda insists there’s no way it could be Monty.

Anne Marie finds Susan in the shop, and as Susan nervously rambles, Anne Marie stops her to apologise – she treated Susan awfully at the Theatre. Susan understands and admits she simply hadn’t thought her plan through regarding the cot. Anne Marie admits that Amber feels distant and she was jealous when she saw the two of them laughing together. Susan says it’s difficult, but Amber will come round. Susan offers to make them both a nice cup of tea. Anne Marie apologises for her emotional outburst. As a child, Amber was close with Anne Marie, and she drew Amber storybooks every year. She states that Amber started drifting away long before meeting George. Susan tells Anne Marie she can’t stop trying.Tom goes through his pitch for Bridge Farm with Helen, who says she can see why their Mum and Dad chose it. Helen asks how Harrison’s welcome back drinks went - Tom confesses he didn’t go because Natasha was out. Helen points out that someone could have watched the twins before realising Tom is avoiding Kirsty. Tom has spoken to Kirsty, and it went really badly. He admits that hearing about the pregnancy brought up feelings about Wren. He couldn’t explain this well to Kirsty, and Helen suggests he finds someone else to talk about his feelings with. Tom says he will always carry Wren with him - Helen points out it’s the same for Kirsty. Tom confesses he was so happy when he first heard Kirsty was pregnant, and wishes he had just told her that.

After Harrison’s first day in his new job, he and Fallon scout for tables at The Bull. Lynda comes over to welcome him home and asks how he’s settling in. Harrison enthusiastically explains about the role and the team and how he’s excited to be working with the rural community. Alice and Rex bump into a curt Kirsty. Rex explains he’s behind Kirsty’s attitude as he’s accidentally become overbearing at work. Rex finds Kirsty at the bar and apologies for being overbearing and patronising. Kirsty confesses to Rex that she wants to tell people tonight after Tom found out she was pregnant by mistake. The gang chats as Harrison regales with stories from his job in Yorkshire. When Harrison asks what else has happened, Kirsty announces she’s pregnant. Everyone is delighted for her. Harrison makes a comment about everyone having babies and jokes that Alice and Rex will be next. They both awkwardly respond. On the walk home, Alice and Rex chat about Harrison’s baby comment. Alice says it’s important to talk about whether you want kids. Rex confesses that he always imagined he’d be a dad eventually. Alice admits that at some point she would like to have another child. The pair agree they should probably move in together before anything else. Catching her outside the Bull, Lynda says it’s a shame Kirsty couldn’t play cricket this season. Kirsty confides in Lynda that she’s pregnant. Lynda’s delighted and hugs Kirsty. Harrison finds Fallon trying to tidy the garden late at night. They descend into a fight over his baby comment.

As Susan and Amber head out for a trip to the theatre, Amber asks about Bert’s new job. Susan insists it’s just volunteering but wonders how much work she’ll get done with him in the shop. Amber talks about her teenage obsession with musicals whilst Susan reminisces about when she used to bring Emma and Chris to the Panto. Whilst waiting in the queue for a programme and some sweets, Susan tries to explain to Amber about not yet returning the Gordons’ baby cot to them. But suddenly Amber spots her mother, Anne Marie, who comes over to chat. At the interval Anne Marie finds Susan. Anne Marie is enjoying the show but really wants an explanation about the cot. When Susan explains it’s all boxed it up in the summerhouse, Anne Marie accuses her of stealing it. Susan denies this whilst Anne Marie says she’ll sort out collecting the cot.Outside the shop, Kirsty bumps into Tom who’s acting strangely. When Kirsty admits that Helen had already called to apologise for letting Tom know about her pregnancy, Tom leaves quickly. Later at Rewilding, Tom comes to speak to Kirsty, who’s sorting through brambles, to apologise for being weird earlier. He wonders why Kirsty hadn’t told him about the baby, considering he told her when Natasha was expecting Seren and Nova. Kirsty insists there’s no comparison between the two situations and questions how dare Tom make this baby about him when it’s nothing to do with him. Kirsty insists this conversation is over.

At Rewilding, Amber arrives to do some filming about the importance of being in nature. Kirsty offers to show her the perfect place to film. After Amber has finished, the pair sit as Amber says she finds pregnancy fascinating, but she didn’t realise what it would actually be like. Kirsty laughs in agreement and reveals that she’s also pregnant. Amber is overjoyed at having a pregnant friend, remarking they can be school mums together. The pair spot a wild strawberry, a Norse symbol of fertility, when Kirsty feels her baby kick for the first time. Later Kirsty is nailing dormice boxes whilst Rex hovers asking if she needs help. He has been generally overhelpful and Kirsty points out she’s still capable and he’s being overbearing. He agrees and goes to the office to leave her be.Fallon swings by The Bull to do a handover whilst Jolene says there’s no need. Jolene gives Fallon a nice bottle of wine from the pub to go the dinner she’s making for Harrison. However, Harrison sneaks home early to surprise Fallon and she drops and smashes the bottle. But the pair laugh over their messy reunion whilst cleaning up the glass. Harrison pops to the shop to replace the bottle, and bumps into Jolene who is delighted to see him. When Amber passes, Harrison learns that George is going to be a father and wonders why Fallon never said. Cuddled up on the sofa, Harrison reveals to Fallon he is starting his new job on Wednesday, not next week as planned.

Pat and Tony are admiring their garden at Bridge Farm. Whilst joking over Tony’s award, Pat says Tony has to break the news on their decision to Tom and Helen. Helen arrives early asking if she can check the attic for Jack’s old baby clothes. Pat connects the dots and asks if Kirsty is pregnant. Flustered Helen admits it. Later, to Tom’s surprise, Tony tells Helen and Tom that they’ve decided to go with the climate-controlled greenhouse. Whilst Tom goes to grab his laptop from the car to show Helen his pitch, Pat tells Helen that she’ll have the baby clothes washed ready for Kirsty. Tom reappears quicker than expected and overhears that Kirsty is pregnant and decides to go finish the watering straight away. Helen finds Tom and ask’s if he’s doing alright. Tom insists he’s fine and that this is great for Kirsty. The Aldridges receive the same text from Brian telling them they will be paid £7000 each for the seed drill. Kate, Alice and Adam debate whether this is a peace offering or a victory, but all think Brian is finally doing the right thing. Alice finds it a bit cold. Kate decides to text back a thank you and floats the idea of a family meal. At Honeysuckle cottage whilst the roast beef is sitting, Adam proposes he and Ian start on the wine to celebrate. Ian tries to hold his tongue, but thinks Brian owes Adam more for all the work he has put in. But Adam thinks they should now move on.

Bert and Lynda arrive for the shop volunteer taster session – Lynda to see if anything’s changed since her last stint. She is critical of the shop’s layout and Bert adds niggles – the strength of the door and the volume of the bell. Lynda decides it’s not changed enough to entice her back. Susan is surprised that her father wants to volunteer, and that the change of scene he’d longed for was company at the shop, not a change of house. She doesn’t think he’s quite suited to being a volunteer. But why not become Susan’s personal assistant and keep her company sitting at the counter?Lynda is pleasantly surprised when Fallon agrees to join the fete committee. Fallon is looking forward to a homecoming staycation with Harrison. They’ll also be celebrating his new dream job, finally becoming a Rural Crime Officer. Ian turns up unexpectedly at Home Farm to address with Brian what Adam is owed from the partnership. Brian is pleased to hear that Adam’s not pursuing a legal case, but doesn’t see anything else to discuss. Ian claims that Brian has always kept Adam at arm’s length. Brian disputes this – he raised him as a farmer and gave him every opportunity, but was stabbed in the back. Ian blurts out that he knows about Ruairi and George – and that proves what Brian has done for a son he really cares about. Ian threatens Brian with telling George the truth, unless he gives Adam what he is due.

Tony’s impressed by David in his traditional bowler hat as an official of The Borchester Show. George reports a problem with a water leak at one of the handwashing stations near the livestock. As Tony finds a spanner and George tightens the pipe, David is drenched. Disaster is also averted when a calf breaks free - George catching it and Tony grabbing its mother. David asks Tracy to alert the committee that he’ll be delayed while he finds dry clothes. Thinking she’s addressing a committee member, Tracy explains to HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh that David has been delayed. Embarrassed by her mistake, Tracy goes on to explain that she’s representing Bridge Farm, and is impressed to hear that Her Royal Highness has tasted Borsetshire Blue. As President of LEAF - Linking Environment and Farming, the Duchess is keen to connect people with where their food comes from, so Tracy issues an invitation to the dairy. The Duchess gives a speech praising a very special organic farmer. The winner of the lifetime achievement award is – Tony Archer! Reflecting, Tony doesn’t feel he deserves it on his own, he’s only achieved it with the help of Pat and the children. He realises that his role at the show has been a ruse but David insists he’s been essential. They all have something to celebrate – Keira’s Texel lamb coming first in its class, Chris and his partner coming second in the farrier competition, and David in particular, having pulled together an exceptional show.

On the Green, Susan notices the new cot in Amber’s car. Amber explains that she’s returning it to her parents – she and George want to use the Grundy cot and don’t need the Gordons’ money. As Susan advises sensitivity with returning it, Amber becomes faint. Amber explains that she’s exhausted with the amount of social media work for the Borchester Show. She’s not slept well and hasn’t started her maternity leave. Susan asks if George can help more, and insists that she helps Amber by returning the cot for her. At the showground, Amber is furious to discover that George has been helping Bill to move cars instead of working on the socials. She makes a point of telling her father that they won’t be needing the cot, and that Susan will be returning it to them in the coming days. She’s also angry with George - not only is he banned from driving, she’s having to do everything herself! In the horse box, Chris pulls on his hoodie while the fake tan he’s applied develops. When Lottie arrives and wants to take advantage of the cute living quarters, Chris is resistant to undress and ushers her out to the showground. Later, Chris ignores Lottie’s request for a kiss goodbye and runs back to the shower at the horse box – he’s forgotten to rinse off the mousse! Embarrassed, he reveals his orange arms to Lottie. He’d only wanted to look less pasty by the other farriers. The only option is to keep scrubbing and Lottie flirts and offers to help.

Chatting to Ian at Honeysuckle Cottage, Alice can’t believe they want to take Brian to court. All Alice wants is for Martha to have a peaceful relationship with her grandfather – that’s more important than money. When Adam arrives home, Alice is on the attack but he stops her – he’s been to see his solicitor and has called it all off. When Alice leaves, a stunned Ian questions the change of heart – with his share of the profits Adam could have something worthwhile to show for his years in farming. Adam responds that a court case will create even more bad blood. He has his achievements in Kenya, he has Xander and Ian, and that’s what counts. It may not be fair, but Brian will not change and they need to accept it. Grumbling about the heat in his window, Bert makes his way to the shop, getting in Susan’s way and finally settling with some humbugs behind the counter. As Susan creates a display, she reveals her idea for a taster session at the shop to encourage more volunteers. She probes further about Clive’s care and Bert disputes that he came back in a state. It’s been a relief not to be preened and prodded all the time. He likes being at the shop after a miserable homecoming – perhaps he should volunteer! At Tracy’s, Susan shares her idea – Bert should move to Ambridge View for a change of scene and to take the pressure off Tracy. Tracy wishes her sister luck as she will need to approach Neil with the concept.

David updates Brian on the dog attack. Frustratingly, until the dog is identified, he can’t claim compensation for the loss of his sheep from its owner. David praises Tony for the progress he’s made with Bridge Farm’s garden. Joining Tony to dig, they discuss the investment into another milking parlour or polytunnels, until Tony’s spade hits metal – John’s childhood model Fordson Major. David encourages him in a new project to clean it up. Over lunch with Alice, Brian asks after Martha and apologises that he can’t help out with her more. He offers help with the extra costs of care in the holidays, but Alice insists she’s fine. Brian’s glad she’s found someone like Rex who’ll stand up for her and confides that he really misses Miranda. He’s afraid he’ll end up like Bert Horrobin, miserable and alone in The Bull.Ian is fretting that now he’s so involved at Grey Gables, Adam is not up to speed with school admin and Xander’s needs. Bringing a peace lily to the hotel, Adam concedes that Ian did so much under the radar for Xander. Later, Adam reveals his shock at the invoice from his solicitor. Ian thinks his siblings should share the high cost, as they’d benefit from any settlement. Adam doesn’t want to rock the boat and thinks he should cut his losses – Brian will never let this fight go. But Ian’s determined not to let Brian walk all over them. He won’t let Adam give up after giving 20 years of his life to Home Farm.

As Chris packs his and Martha’s things ahead of Harrison’s return from Yorkshire, he shares with Fallon his hopes that his flat will be ready soon. Last time he lived at Susan and Neil’s, they almost sent him doolally. Hannah calls, letting Chris know that one of the farriers for the Borchester Show has been injured and will have to pull out of the pairs. Fallon suggests that Chris takes his place. Later, he worries about demonstrating his skills in front of his peers, but Fallon speculates on the real reason for his reticence – Chris lacks the sun-kissed glow of many of the farriers on social media! At Tracy’s, she and Susan are shocked to see the arrival of Bert by taxi. Thinner and unshaven, Bert insists that Clive has cared well for him, but Clive’s new job means it’s impractical now, so he’s back – and unimpressed to find his bedroom being used for laundry. Bert is not impressed that Susan is going to a Fleetwood Mac tribute and Tracy’s working at The Bull. Nor is he happy that she’s taken on more dairy work. Treating him to a meal and a pint, Tracy takes him to work and Bert reluctantly lets Brian sit with him. Brian listens to Bert’s grumbles about his family and being made to feel a burden but reproaches him – Bert should be proud to have such hardworking, caring daughters. Put out, Bert fires back that Brian is high and mighty and has no right to interfere, considering his own family’s issues.

Martyn mobilises a team with water tankers to help David remedy the equestrian ring at the Showground. Delighted David buys the drinks at the Bull. Neil catches Ed to find out what’s going on with him and Martyn. Neil’s horrified as Ed explains Martyn’s offer of some lucrative tree work in exchange for informing on Brian at Home Farm. Keira feels pressured by her family to show the Texels for Ed at the Borchester Show, but admits to George she doesn’t want to be centre of attention. As George pressures Keira to face up to responsibility she makes a pointed comment about him not refusing the Gordons’ cot, before escaping George after his clumsy remark about her running away. Neil encourages George to start listening to Keira, before talking about how George can be a good parent. He steers George to realise the Grundy cot is best. George asserts the other one can stay at the Gordons’ place. He thanks Neil for setting him straight. George apologises to Keira. She jokes the apology should be for the last four years. They work together to choose a Texel ewe for the show. George is pleased they’re talking and insists he’s not giving up on them. Keira starts to soften. After reluctantly agreeing to be filmed halter training by George, the two chat and Keira opens up about her feelings towards George and her parents. Keira agrees to show the Texels. She still needs to say her piece to George, and will let him know when she’s figured it out.

With Martyn Gibson’s water company links, Neil asks a favour of him to help David and Chris with the Show’s equestrian situation. Neil shocks Martyn by revealing that Adam has left Home Farm, quickly realising Martyn didn’t know, as Martyn storms over to see Brian. Martyn wants assurance that Home Farm will honour their contract for the Borchester Land harvest. Ed reassures Martyn and Brian props Ed up as his deputy, leaving Martyn to make a pointed comment about paying Ed a manager’s salary, and Ed tentatively asking Brian about this. Brian puts him off and suggests a drink. Neil’s faux pas leads Susan to wonder about offering Adam work in the shop while Jim’s away. They also discuss George and Amber falling out over the Gordons’ posh cot, and Bert staying at Clive’s. Neil thinks they need a city break, like Jim. Lottie invites Neil and Susan to join her and Chris in the busy Bull, also offering Neil a way to avoid Martyn. She then includes Brian and Ed. Privately, Martyn offers Chris some help with the Show, then finds Ed. Martyn wants Ed to effectively spy on Brian at Home Farm and report back to him. Ed’s not keen, and Martyn offers a potential bribe in the form of a large tree surgery job. It appears Ed won’t be bought though. At their table, Lottie invites everyone’s best idea for Pip and Stella’s ‘Lesbi-Hen’ party. Susan wins the prize of a free dinner with her idea of a treasure hunt based on meaningful locations around the village.

Kate treats Kirsty to a free massage at Spiritual Home, and as they talk about Kirsty’s wellbeing, Kate mentions she can see Kirsty’s pregnancy bump. The relaxed mood is somewhat soured by the smell of manure, which leads Kate into a rant about Brian. Losing her concentration, Kate becomes too forceful with Kirsty’s foot massage, and Kirsty begs her to stop before she causes an injury! Over herbal tea, Kirsty listens as Kate worries about being the only sibling with a business connected to Brian. Kirsty suggests an escape plan. Kate seizes on this – she’ll move Spiritual Home to the Rewilding site.George struggles to get started with his interview with Bill, who offers to come back to it – they enjoy coffee and a chat, with Bill offering something stronger and drinking from a hip flask. George is staying off the booze, supporting Amber, and reckons that’s the only way he’s good at supporting. But Bill praises grafter George, before revealing a few things about himself. Bill apologies for how he and Anne Marie behaved towards George back in February, and says he deserves a clean slate. George levels with Bill about how things need to be between Amber and her parents, before Bill tries to persuade George about the benefits of the swish new cot they’ve got for them. Bill feels that as grandparents they should have an input, and this cot is what their grandchild needs.

At the Showground, Lottie returns Chris’s phone after last night, and they agree they need a proper date, not a ‘booty call’. Chris gets a message from Harrison who’s due home in a couple of weeks, and wonders about living arrangements for himself and Martha. Chris is called away by David to the equestrian ring – the ground’s looking too hard to compete on. Discussing the Borchester Show media plan, Amber wonders about some gaps. David insists all will become clear. He also advises getting some content from the Rural Crime Team. George sympathises about the recent attack on the sheep, and mentions Ed can’t show his Texel sheep due to Brian - Keira isn’t keen to step into the spotlight. Amber’s dad, Bill, shows up looking for David. Bill has a stand at the Show and parks up his impressive prop 4x4 vehicle. Amber’s taken aback to learn about the ‘Platinum’ package Bill is getting, and that she’ll be writing up a piece on him for the Echo. George sheepishly explains his recent chat with Amber’s mum. Amber’s concerned about her parents lording the Platinum deal over her. Bill has another surprise for them – a baby shower gift in the form of a cot with plush features. Amber protests that they have the Grundy cot. George tries to mediate, offering his gratitude. But Amber feels put on the backfoot by her parents. She just wants the show done and her parents out of their lives. To help, George insists he’ll do the agreed interview with Bill.

Brian struggles with a chemical order but is convinced he let Adam go at the right time, as he has Ed. Ed reminds Brian he’s only there to work the land. But when Ed quickly solves a problem, he’s thrown when Brian insists he needs Ed next Thursday to meet an engineer – Ed’ll have to miss the Borchester Show. Ed also agrees to shift manure to Broad Acre, despite his concerns it’s right by Spiritual Home. With her sessions disrupted by the smell, Kate confronts Ed and has it out with Brian, sensing a vendetta and telling Brian she supports Adam keeping Xander away from him. Brian’s stung. Keira’s early for her first day of work experience at Rewilding, relieved to not be at Amside. Working on woodpiles with Kirsty, Keira opens up and admits she’s not looking forward to George and Amber’s baby arriving, as she thinks George will be useless. Kirsty encourages Keira to step up - not as a baby carer, but in holding George to account. Despite not wanting to talk about babies, Keira enjoys the cute footage of the beavers. She opens up about running away last Christmas, and George always being the centre of attention. Keira has started to talk to her parents about it now, and Kirsty says to keep going. And if Keira ever needs space, there’s some here for her. Later Keira enthuses about her work experience to Ed. Ed’s pleased, and takes the opportunity to ask a favour – can Keira show the Texels for him next Thursday at the Borchester Show?

Kirsty and Helen speculate on the sort of pastimes Kirsty’s baby will grow up to have. Helen wonders whether Kirsty’s told Tom about the pregnancy. Kirsty responds that she hasn’t really told anyone yet.Tom’s admiring images of greenhouses, and Natasha humours him. He’d prefer her to take a proper interest and be supportive. She confirms her support but is more focused on the boxes of botanicals she’s received to inform her own business idea. She assures Tom that even though she’s open-minded about the new parlour, she’s still on board with his project. Heartened, Tom grins that Helen might have a fight on her hands. Kate seeks Ian’s advice on a customer complaint at Grey Gables but he’s too busy to help, and snaps at her. He later apologises; he’s not sure he’s cut out for this work. There’s only so far the Martyn Gibson management coaching handbook can go. Kate probes further and Ian admits to being unsettled at home. As well as keeping Xander away from Brian, he’s spotted that Adam’s looking at properties far afield. They’ve made a life in Ambridge, and Ian’s afraid Adam could burn himself out. Kate thinks the one good thing that’s come out of the situation is the amount of quality time Adam can now spend with Xander. She counsels Ian to see Adam’s enforced banishment from Home Farm as an opportunity rather than a disaster. Ian concedes

It’s the day of Brian’s mediation meeting with Adam and he’s made biscuits, rebutting Kate’s suggestion that they’re an olive branch. He doesn’t need one; he’s the good guy. When she asks whether he’s thought about division of the partnership’s profits, he laughs that there aren’t any. Kate wishes him luck, reminding him he can’t be both the good guy and a stubborn stick-in-the-mud. Ian advises Adam to stay calm and remember that Brian’s refusal to pay the family what they’re owed is immoral. Ian confides to Kate he fears Adam will lose his cool if Brian doesn’t play ball. Adam’s worked night and day to keep the farm afloat. Kate agrees, though she worries Xander’s relationship with his grandfather’s getting a little lost. Ian insists Brian sees Martha as more of a real grandchild than Xander. Brian declares to Ruth that his main goal is to put a stop to the claims for money. Ruth reminds him today’s about negotiation and compromise. However when Adam arrives it’s clear Brian won’t shift his in view, insisting he’s bankrolled his children for years. Seeing an impasse, Ruth suggests a break and another meeting, but Brian declares there’ll be no more meetings. When Adam leaves Ruth asks Brian what he actually wants. Later when Adam declares it’s the end of the road, Ian ventures they still have information on Ruairi. They know the secret and could mention this to Brian. Adam’s against this. Ruairi’s his brother and he’ll never do anything that puts him at risk. Family is more than just blood.

Tom tells Helen he’s confused as to why she’s acting as if the new milking parlour is the obvious next step for the farm. Helen insists it’s just about belief in her business, and expansion of the farm, which will benefit Tom too. She suggests they discuss it calmly rather than falling out – getting a quote isn’t the same as ordering a parlour. It’s the bare minimum needed for putting a business proposal together. Fine, says Tom, he’ll work on a proposal too. Helen’s in favour – then they can each present their case to the family.Ed discovers Keira’s found her own work experience placement at Rewilding Ambridge. Clarrie remembers when Keira helped make bat boxes as a child. Ed doesn’t recall, and Keira huffs that he was probably distracted by something George was doing at the time. Ed protests he’s always asked Keira to do things with him, but she’s often buried in her phone. George arrives and immediately winds Keira up, resulting in her storming out. Later she apologises for shouting, and for bolting at New Year. She admits she finds it hard to talk, and at New Year they were too worried about George to listen to her. Ed wishes he’d realised how much she was struggling. He reassures her, and she confides her worries about school and friendships. Ed reckons lots of her classmates will have had the same anxieties. They hug. Later Ed sets Keira and George a task to clear out a barn. They have fun, and Ed declares they’ve passed his challenge.

Susan isn’t sure she can commit to more hours in the busy dairy until they’ve solved the staffing crisis at the shop. She admits to Helen that she misses Jim. Helen’s loving having Tracy as a neighbour. She’s really helpful, and Brad’s happy to throw the boys’ ball back into her garden. When she moots the possibility of having a connecting gate between the properties, Susan’s equivocal – boundaries are important.Henry’s late for school lunch with Keira due to a detention. He’s not happy he doesn’t have his own room yet, though it’s still better than living with Tom. He’s doubtful about Keira turning down her work experience – will she be able to fix up an alternative in time for next week? Keira tells Clarrie she can’t see the point of schools existing at all. She asks Clarrie how viable it would be to bring in re-jigged work experience forms tomorrow. Clarrie thinks it’s worth a try. Later Keira confides to Susan that she’s found a different placement.Tom suggests Helen and the boys go back to Beechwood for a final supper now she’s settled in. Helen in turn reckons she should have a housewarming. Tom’s surprised to discover Helen’s asked a rep to Bridge Farm to quote for a new milking parlour. Tony too is wrongfooted. He reminds Helen that no decisions have been made on future investment. Helen insists she’s just looking at options and didn’t like Tom asking the rep questions. Tony suggests Helen apologises to Tom and thinks before steamrollering over them all with her plans.

Anne Marie calls at No.1 The Green, hoping to catch Amber. George suggests she waits for her to return from work. However Amber messages to say she’s eating out with a mate. Anne Marie’s philosophical, and George acknowledges it’s good they’ve chatted so things can be less awkward between them all now. It’s hard for Amber being caught in the middle. George persuades Anne Marie to consider an upgrade to a platinum sponsorship package at the Borchester Show, which would include Amber as their dedicated host for the day. Later Anne Marie calls at the Bull and meets Tracy. Anne Marie expresses her gratitude at how warmly Amber’s been accepted into the family fold. Tracy suggests Adam might be up for some shifts at the Bull when Fallon’s off with Harrison. Lilian’s unsure – Adam might be good in the bar but she can’t see him in the kitchen. Lilian spots Keira and wants to chat about her upcoming work experience, but Keira ducks away. Bumping into George, Keira confesses she’d rather avoid Lilian for now. However Lilian catches up with her and starts to set out her exciting plans for Keira at Amside. George joins in with the enthusiasm and Keira walks off. Later Keira apologises to Lilian for being rude. She just doesn’t want to work in an office and would rather be somewhere like the Stables. Lilian understands. She resolves to make the work as interesting as she can. Keira asks whether Lilian would be upset if she found another placement. Lilian smiles that she’d get over it – eventually.

David and Ruth have heard nothing from Josh recently other than a fleeting thumbs up. They acknowledge they should be grateful that means he’s doing ok. Over lunch with Kate, Brian asserts he had a smashing day out yesterday with Martha, Chris and Neil – it’s just a shame Xander wasn’t with them. Brian wants to celebrate the official dissolution of the family partnership, but Kate doesn’t approve. Brian’s also pleased his caravan storage plans look likely to go ahead. He hopes Kate won’t object, but Kate promises nothing.Tony’s keen for information about his livestock liaison role at the Borchester Show. David assures him just being there on the day will be enough. Tony asks if he might be allowed in on the secret of the mystery guest at the Show, but David’s lips are sealed.Adam calls Ruth requesting a chat. David admits he’s worried about Adam after Brian’s volte face over the inheritance. Ruth agrees Adam must be feeling like the rug’s been pulled from under him. When Adam moots the idea of Ruth acting as mediator between him and Brian, Ruth’s unsure about getting involved. She wants to know what Adam’s hoping to achieve from the meeting, declaring she’d need to be impartial if she took it on. Later she tells David she’ll give it a go. She hates seeing the Aldridges divided. Brian’s harder to persuade however. He doesn’t want to speak to Adam, still less negotiate with him. Ruth suggests that agreeing to meet Adam and show willing might benefit Brian in the long run. Brian agrees to think about it.

Keira’s not keen on her upcoming work experience placement at Amside – Henry’s sounds much more fun. She invites Henry to her Father’s Day tea with Ed – she could do with someone to chat with George so that she doesn’t have to. The atmosphere gets awkward in the busy Tearoom as Keira accuses George of rudeness when he takes a phone call in the middle of proceedings. Later Keira does her best to blank George, but he tries to engage, giving her advice about how to charm Lilian when she takes on her planned work experience. Keira’s scathing, pointing out that George is hardly in a position to give advice on how to handle Lilian, given he’s been barred from her pub for the past six months.Anne Marie rings George on the pretext of having questions about the Borchester Show, but it becomes clear she’s fishing for information about elusive Amber. Ian and Adam discuss the solicitor’s letter that’s been sent to Brian, and his subsequent lack of response. Ian’s keen that Brian’s held to account; Adam needs to fight for what he’s owed. Adam just wants to enjoy Father’s Day. Even if he gets a pay-off from Brian, he’ll never own a farm now. Ian reckons that with his talent, Adam could build something amazing to hand on to Xander. Adam agrees to do some research. Ian suggests that in the meantime they present Brian with a settlement figure. Adam’s sceptical, but Ian reckons a meeting might succeed if they have a mediator. How about Ruth Archer?

Bill and Anne Marie drop in unexpectedly at 1 The Green, while George and Amber are out. Anne Marie’s keen to see if the house meets her expectations for when the baby arrives, before Will gives a guided tour, glossing over how tight a squeeze it will be fitting the cot and baby clothes storage in the bedroom. Will implies that he expects them to stay through the baby’s childhood, before proudly showing Amber’s parents George’s cot in the shed. Anne Marie expresses concern over safety standards, before Amber arrives with George, wishing they’d warned her they were coming. George assures them he used baby-safe paint and Will then tells them how Nic died. Anne Marie assures Amber and George they’ll support them financially as they bring up their child, before Bill and Anne Marie take their leave. Outside, Amber chastises them for turning up without warning and trying to find fault with George. They repeat their offer to help financially. Amber agrees to accept the odd gift, then suggests they meet up at Borchester Show but not before.Amber admits to feeling wrung out by her parents’ visit. George felt they were judgmental, looking down their noses at the small house. When Amber talks about wanting a space of their own one day, George accuses her of planning her escape and thinking his family aren’t good enough for her. Irritated Amber is tired of trying not to upset both George and her parents, before declaring she’s going for a walk.

Brad’s showing Kate how to make beds at Grey Gables when they hear a noise in the wardrobe and Fletch the budgie flies. Alerted by the commotion, Oliver helps catch Fletch, stating they can reunite the Maliks with their budgie. Brad continues showing Kate the housekeeping ropes, chatting about Zainab handing Fletch back to Akram, before moving on to unrequited love. Brad reflects sadly on his doomed relationship with Amber, without mentioning her name. Kate’s advice is to do everything he can to move on, because he deserves better in life – but only Brad can make that happen.Whilst waiting at The Bull to speak to Miranda, Brian tells Kirsty he’s relieved David no longer blames him for the dog attack. Kirsty and Jolene are impressed by George and Amber’s social media campaign for the Borchester Show, before Miranda walks in. When Brian asks for a word, she tells him there’s nothing to say and walks off. Later, Brian tells Jolene he’s going round to see Miranda. Jolene reckons it’s a bad idea, but Brian’s determined. However, Brian finds Oliver sharing a nightcap with Miranda on the terrace at Home Farm. She tells Brian frostily her sympathies are with Adam over Home Farm, then rejects Brian’s request to take him back.Kirsty shares reassuring news with Kate about her unborn baby’s blood test results before Brian turns up, wallowing in self-pity. After giving him some blunt advice Kate softens, since she wouldn’t wish a broken heart on anyone.

Before Bill goes to meet Amber at his car showroom Anne Marie wonders if Amber’s avoiding her after things went badly last time they met. Bill can see Amber might have taken exception to Anne Marie’s suggestion of an abortion, while Anne Marie concedes she could have been more subtle. Bill wants to be sure they don’t scare Amber off again. Later, when they meet, Amber makes a good sales pitch to Bill, while Anne Marie apologises for last time. She wants to be part of Amber’s life but accepts she’s made mistakes, before admitting she’s not thrilled by Amber’s choice of partner. But they still love her. Amber answers their baby questions awkwardly, then Bill invites her for lunch.David and Pip are still shaken after yesterday’s terrible events. David feels Brian could have done more as landowner to protect the sheep, while Pip will get more warning signs printed. PC Trueman calls – they haven’t traced the dog yet, but forensics are working on the evidence they gathered. Later, she takes their statements, assuring them the police are doing all they can to tackle these incidents. When David expresses doubt about continuing with the Show, Pip says he can’t let this defeat him. Then Amber rings to tell David that Bill’s agreed to take the trade stand.David and Pip were thrilled, Amber tells George, before admitting she had lunch with her mum and dad. But Amber insists, she’s not going to let them buy their way back into her life.

David and Pip make an extremely shocking discovery out in the fields and which includes some very graphic descriptions.Brian, Alistair and Jolene muse on Jim’s possible whereabouts on his travels. Alistair’s missing him and will let them know when the first of Jim’s postcards arrives. Brian wishes he could still go on holiday with Miranda. He sees himself as the victim in all Home Farm’s current travails.Whilst checking on their sheep at Home Farm, David and Pip make a terrible discovery: the sheep have been attacked by a dog, with up to fifteen dead and many injured. David’s extremely upset but Pip helps him focus on calling Alistair, while she calls the emergency services, with the dog still nearby. Alistair then gets David’s call and Brian sets off after him. PC Nicola Trueman establishes the facts with David, but thinks they’ve probably missed their chance to catch the dog. Alistair gets to work on treating the surviving ewes and lambs, with shocked David’s help, while Nicola and Pip take footage in the field. They both despair at how frequently this kind of incident happens, despite signs all over the countryside. Nicola outlines the investigation procedure then recalls meeting Brian, Home Farm’s owner, recently. Meanwhile, David angrily casts aspersions on dog owners while Alistair saves one ewe at least. Brian is full of righteous indignation when he arrives, before David takes him to task in front of Nicola and Pip for not managing his land properly. David demands compensation, before accusing Brian of being unfit to be in charge of a farm!

George tells Amber his big surprise for the baby should be ready tonight. Amber’s been putting off asking her dad to take the trade stand at Borchester Show but George persuades her to go for it. Later, Amber thinks the upcycled Grundy family cot George reveals is gorgeous, before Bill replies belatedly to her message about the trade stand, asking her to meet for a talk.Seeing George fly his drone over the Green Adam baits him with remarks about Brian backing him and how well he’s recovered from the attack. George has heard Brian’s ‘lost it’, then mentions New Year’s Eve, realising Adam knows Brian was there. George mentions Ruairi confessing to the attack, and presumes Adam will try to protect Brian, like Ruairi. Adam denies this, wishing George well. Later, Adam helps Kate and Alice prepare Xander and Martha’s sleepover. Adam declares he’s done with fighting for control of Home Farm, revealing that Brian passed his mental capacity test. Alice is hugely relieved Brian hasn’t got dementia, but Adam felt like Brian enjoyed crushing him. When Brian arrives, ready to babysit as previously arranged, Adam tells him to go home, swapping barbs before Brian leaves. Alice and Kate try talking Adam round from shutting Brian out of Xander’s life, but Adam’s determined to protect his son. Brian returns after Adam’s gone out, but Kate can’t let Brian say goodnight to Xander, under instruction from Adam. Since Brian’s the winner of this family feud maybe he needs to think if it’s really worth it?

Brian is disturbed to find Kate working at Grey Gables, but Kate assures Brian she isn’t trying to humiliate him. She simply needs a secure income to enable her to keep Spiritual Home going. For Brian the bigger issue is Kate taking a job from smug Oliver. Kate says she’s more worried than ever about Brian, after recent events. Brian wants her to ask Adam about the letter he presented to him. Brian then corners Oliver, who doubts Miranda will ask after Brian any time soon.At the cricket Alice tells Kirsty she’s not sure what to do on Father’s Day next week – stick with Martha and Chris or spend it with Brian, who’s practically disowned Adam and Debbie. She envies Kirsty’s uncomplicated life with Erik. Later, Alice tells Kirsty she’s making a Father’s Day kit for Martha to give Chris, while Brian will just have to endure the hell of enforced fun with his own children. Back home, Kate’s keen to hear about Kirsty’s scan. Kirsty compares it to Wren’s scan and how that was all she ever got to know of him. Kate hugs Kirsty before Alice arrives and they talk about babysitting arrangements for tomorrow, now Brian’s persona non grata with Adam. Kate wonders if Alice knows what Brian was hinting at about Adam. Alice doesn’t, but Kirsty’s sure they’ll get it out of Adam tomorrow night.

Alistair greets Jakob with news that the minibus taking them to the World Cup cricket match is stuck with a flat tyre, but thanks to a suggestion by Jakob they manage to fix it. Later, at Edgbaston cricket ground, Tracy is thrilled just to be there, while Alistair’s determined nothing will stop Jim having a wonderful day with his friends. Tracy is delighted that Jakob is relaxing and enjoying himself, before Alistair tells them this is Jim’s unofficial leaving do as he’s catching the Eurostar in the morning then following an extensively researched itinerary known only to him.Adam phones Brian, chasing up some budget forecasts that need updating. Brian tells him the forecasts are none of his concern now and Adam gives up trying to persuade him otherwise. However, Adam turns up later wanting to check some other figures and Brian again does his best to put him off, before telling Adam he’s going to train Ed to use their system. Adam is astonished, suggesting it makes no sense. Brian reckons Adam no longer has a say in running Home Farm, to which Adam retorts that no-one trusts Brian after a series of embarrassing errors. Adam produces a solicitor’s letter starting legal proceedings to remove Brian from the business, as he’s displaying signs of dementia. But Brian trumps this with a letter of his own, proving that his mental capacity is just fine. If Adam challenges it, he’ll fight him to the bitter end. Brian then tells Adam triumphantly to get off his land!

Stella tells Pip her genomic test kit has arrived and suggests doing it straight away. Pip demurs, asking whether Stella will still want to marry her if it’s bad news. Upset Stella wonders how Pip can even ask that, before walking out. Pip then reveals to Ruth that she ordered the test. Ruth assumed they’d at least talk it over first, but Pip explains both her and Stella couldn’t cope with the stress of waiting, while acknowledging the result will have implications for all the family. Ruth admits she’s a little hurt but not cross, then apologises for not being as supportive as she might have been. Pip reasons that she won’t do the test until after the wedding, explaining to Stella that she doesn’t want anything to spoil their big day. Stella was too worked up earlier to understand, but she does now, before inviting Pip and Rosie to move into the bungalow. Tracy and Susan discuss Bert settling in well at Clive’s flat, though neither of them really believes the glowing reports they’re getting. Susan encourages Tracy to take the full-time job in the Dairy, but Tracy’s worried she’ll end up looking after Bert once more. Susan offers to share the care if it comes to that, before Tracy talks to Helen and explains her dilemma. She’s realised that caring for Bert over the years stopped her being there more for Chelsea and Brad. Helen’s sympathetic, managing to talk Tracy into accepting her offer. Later, proud Susan insists on buying Tracy’s lunch to celebrate her new job.

At Home Farm David tackles Brian about the wisdom of going it alone, but Brian’s determined it’s the only course to follow, after the way Adam and Debbie ambushed him. David argues Adam’s case as a great farmer, also citing Brian’s U-turn over the inheritance. Brian firmly rebuts David’s intercession on Adam’s behalf, before Ed approaches, having overheard some of this. Ed then tells David how difficult it is being caught between Adam and Brian. Later, David informs Amber that the Borchester Show wi-fi has been upgraded but admits there are two big gaps among the trade stands, including the car dealership one. Amber tells David she might be able to help with that… Amber then drops in at Little Grange, seeking Ed’s advice about whether she should ask her dad to take the car dealership stand, when things are still fraught between her and her parents. Ed reckons it should work as a straightforward business proposition.Martyn calls Adam to check this afternoon’s meeting is still on and to express concern over Brian’s recent behaviour. Adam then phones irritable Brian, wanting to make sure they’re singing from the same hymn sheet when it comes to the Estate contract. The meeting itself is tricky, with Martyn seeking reassurance the contract will be fulfilled. However, Brian makes a mistake over a detail in the schedule and when Martyn pulls him up on this Brian storms out, leaving Adam to cover. But for Martyn this is the last chance for Home Farm.

Helen gets a call from Jack’s school about an accusation of bad behaviour. Helen then tells Jakob she promised Kirsty she’d go to her pre-natal scan and tests this afternoon, but the school are insisting Helen goes in. Jakob offers to take Kirsty instead. At the hospital Kirsty confesses to feeling more than anxious, before Jakob agrees to film the scan on Erik’s behalf. Otherwise, his attempts to help Kirsty relax are typically misguided. Driving back, they reflect on a clear scan, but Kirsty will have to wait for the test results. Kirsty then thanks Jakob for saving her day.While eating lunch in the garden Tracy tells Jazzer about Pat and Tony’s concerns over her not accepting Helen’s offer. She insists she likes working in the Dairy, though she prefers The Bull. But Helen keeps pushing her for an answer – and now she’s moved in next door as well. Jazzer reckons the real reason for Tracy’s hesitation is Bert. Later, Helen fumes over the fence to Tracy about the accusation made against Jack. Helen doesn’t have much faith in the deputy head, especially in light of a recent poor Ofsted report, then tells Tracy she needs an answer about the job by Thursday. Jazzer pushes Tracy to admit she’s done more than her fair share of looking after Bert, before Tracy declares she loves him and misses having him around. If she takes the job she’d be admitting he’s not coming back. Jazzer forces the issue and Tracy agrees, if Bert says he wants to stay at Clive’s then she’ll accept Helen’s offer.

After conducting pregnancy tests on the Brookfield cows Alistair chats to David about the poisonous atmosphere at Home Farm, wondering if David might be able to soften Brian’s hardline stance. When David mentions trade stand bookings for the Borchester Show are right down Alistair says a client complained about the payment system on the showground last year. David says he’ll investigate, before Alistair chases up numbers for the minibus trip to the Women’s T20 World Cup on Friday. Amber’s pleased by the uptick in social media engagement for the Borchester Show since she took over strategy from George. The money they earn will help cover the cost of all the baby gear they need. David calls, asking Amber to use her contacts at Farm Supplies to find out why trade stand bookings are down, and to target local businesses with positive messaging. Later, Amber and George are able to confirm the slow wi-fi led to payment difficulties last year, putting businesses off booking again. David vows to try and fix it. Stella enthuses about wedding preparations to distracted Pip, who’s waiting for the call from a genetic counsellor. After several false alarms Pip finally speaks to the counsellor, then later tells Stella about the issues they covered, including potential risks to having children in future. Stella suggests focusing on the next step and Pip says she’s agreed to take the private BRCA gene variant test. It’s hard, but once Pip’s done the test, they’ll know for sure without having to wait for Ruth’s NHS referral, which she hasn’t even asked for yet.

Helen’s having a hard time concentrating on the cheese-making demonstration she’s giving as part of Open Farm Sunday, so Tracy steps up and smooths things over. Helen is tired after moving into her new house yesterday, but grateful for the help she received from neighbour Tracy and family. Susan then steps in to do the next demonstration with Tracy. Later, Tracy and Susan relax in the Tearoom, wondering why Jim has stopped his newspapers and taken his name off the volunteer rota. Susan acknowledges Tracy has borne the brunt of the burden caring for Bert. They’re surprised he’s lasted this long at Clive’s. Helen comes in, pleased the day has been so successful, then pushes Tracy for an answer to her offer of full-time work in the Dairy. Tracy promises to let her know soon.Ed finds Adam is already doing some jobs that Brian asked him to do at Home Farm. Ed feels awkward, but Adam suggests a different job and gives Ed further instructions for the rest of the week. Catching Ed later Brian is put out to discover that Adam has countermanded his instructions with an alternative schedule for Ed’s work. Adam defends his actions before telling Brian that Martyn wants to talk about the Borchester Land contracts on Wednesday. Brian reluctantly agrees to a time. Having discovered they’ve paid a bill twice Adam asks Brian to leave all invoices, ordering and scheduling to him, while the partnership is still in charge, whether Brian likes it or not.

After a sleepless night, Ian worries over his temporary promotion and Adam despairs over Brian’s chaotic rule at Home Farm. Adam reckons his lawyer thinks their case -that Brian’s incapable of managing the farm - isn’t watertight. Brad and Zainab catch up at Grey Gables, where Zainab confesses to missing Fletcher, the budgie. After a strange staff meeting, they question Ian’s mad new management style, while Zainab admits she lied during Ian’s team bonding activity. Later, Brad asks for advice as George wants to name his baby Brad, if it’s a boy. It feels wrong to Brad, but he supposes he’ll get used to it.When Adam turns up for work at Home Farm, Brian warns he’s not welcome, having been fired by email with immediate effect. Adam insists his contract is with the partnership and goes off in the Land Rover to spray the barley. Martyn catches Adam, who’s parked up complaining to Ian about Brian’s behaviour. Martyn’s concerned by the wild rumours flying round about Home Farm and needs to know if it will affect BL’s contract. Then a police officer comes up looking for Adam, while he’s trying to reassure Martyn. The Land Rover’s been reported stolen by a Mr Aldridge and Adam named as the thief. After calling Brian to clarify the situation PC Trueman advises the pair to resolve the issue between them. Adam then tells Martyn that Brian has lost the plot. Martyn decides this has gone far enough and resolves to call a meeting between them as soon as possible.

Zainab moans to Akram that she wouldn’t have brought Khalil tickets to the T20 if she’d known how much he’d keep talking about cricket. They discuss work – Zainab’s finding Ian easier to work for than Dane, but Akram feels Bridge Farm rather dismissed his idea for a care farm. Helen tells Tom the farmer accepted their offer for the Monteys: all ten of them. Tom can’t believe Helen went back on her word, but Helen’s convinced it will be good for the farm and asks Tom to be pleased for her. Helen asks Akram to help in the dairy. Akram’s willing to help, but only as a one-off – working in the dairy isn’t the reason why he came to Bridge Farm. Helen then explains why Akram’s care farm idea wouldn’t have worked. Later, Akram talks to Tom about Bridge Farm’s increased focus on dairy, which Helen’s just told him about. Annoyed by Helen seemingly taking control of the farm’s direction Tom starts arguing with her, but Helen walks away. Akram then suggests to Tom that the reason Tracy hasn’t agreed to more hours may be down to how it feels working at Bridge Farm.At the end of their long days Akram and Zainab decompress, with Zainab wondering whether work should be fun. Akram confesses he’s happiest working with the land, but maybe he should return to plumbing. Zainab reminds him of his own advice to follow his dream, and stick to the path, even when it’s crooked. Akram is grateful for a daughter like her.

Natasha helps Helen pack clothes ahead of moving to 5 The Green. Henry’s become very organised, labelling all his boxes, whilst Jack is less helpful. They talk about the dairy and Helen’s excitement over expanding her herd. Natasha confesses she’s almost jealous of Helen’s enthusiasm. Driving to Shropshire, Tom points out the irony of using the money from selling retired Tony’s Anguses to buy Montey’s from another retired farmer. Helen points out how they’re saving money by not having to bring them over from France. They then admire the cows in the field and Helen tries to persuade Tom to buy the full herd of ten. Tom points out their mobile dairy would struggle to handle the extra cows and Helen reluctantly agrees to only buy the six they came for. Later, while chatting over a cup of tea, enthusiastic Natasha confesses she has a new business idea for Bridge Farm, to branch out into Botanicals and organic skincare. It could finance sending the twins to private school. Helen tells her to go for it, if that’s what they want to do. When Rex catches Alice at The Stables, they agree neither wants to break up. Rex then apologises for what he said to Brian. Alice doesn’t know the specifics, so Rex tells her everything. Recalling their fight on Sunday, Alice says she’s inherited the Aldridge habit of lashing out. Rex admits to his own flaws and they agree to put it behind them, before Rex reveals his dad texted him, asking to meet Alice. Would she be up for that?

When Alice bumps into Ed in the village shop, she inquires if Ed would be available for extra hours at Home Farm. Ed says he’ll let her know after talking to Emma. As Will and Eddie admire Ed’s Texels, Will warns Ed to stay out of the Aldridge family drama, but Eddie reckons Ed should just keep his head down and take the money. Ed says he’d only go back if the hours were flexible enough to allow him to continue with the tree surgery. George then convinces Ed to be in a social media video on selecting a sheep for Borchester Show. Will and Eddie then heckle awkward Ed, before George banishes them until the filming’s done. Finding Rex on Alice’s doorstep, Brian confesses the last time he spoke to Alice it didn’t end well. He starts rambling on about her, before Rex cuts him off. Rex thinks it’s inappropriate for Brian to be saying this stuff to him, pointing out that Brian’s ego is a major source of the Aldridge family problems. Rex continues that he knows about fathers who insist on always getting their own way, calling Brian out when Alice appears. Brian and Alice both hate all the fighting, and Brian wants things to go back to normal. Alice insists that Brian cannot run Home Farm alone and says she’s found someone who could help. To her surprise, Brian agrees to give Ed a chance. Later, Ed visits the Nest, telling Alice he’ll take the extra hours subject to agreeing suitable pay and flexibility.

At Berrow farm, Ian nervously rambles to Martyn Gibson before apologising for yelling at him yesterday. Martyn accepts and agrees to not escalate his complaint further, as his brunch date wasn’t going well anyway. Seeing the pressure of his role on Ian, Martyn offers his advice on working in management over coffee. As they talk about managerial techniques and goals for Ian, Martyn plays bingo with cliché phrases.Tom is admiring climate-controlled greenhouses online and planning to futureproof Bridge Farm. Natasha encourages him to talk to Helen, but Tom doesn’t want to pitch his ideas until Helen has moved house this weekend. Natasha raises Loxley Barratt School’s negative Ofsted report and how Helen wants Tom and Natasha involved in the PTA when Seren and Nova start in September. As they start to mention considering sending them elsewhere, Pat turns up with the twin’s missing water bottles. Later, Pat and Tom are working in Bridge Farm’s garden as they admire how all the planting is coming together. Pat mentions the Ofsted report to Tom, who lets slip they’re looking at alternative options to Loxley Barratt. Pat is outraged at the idea of sending the girls to private school and questions how they would even afford it. Following an appointment at a local Pre-Prep school, Tom and Natasha feel deflated by the cost involved and Natasha suggests a loan or even selling her Summer Orchard business to cover it. Tom takes this as motivation to push on with expanding his veg business through buying a new greenhouse.

Alice is waiting for Rex to take her on a date whilst Adam tells her how he was sacked by email by Brian. Alice is horrified, but Adam states as the Partnership employs him, not Brian, he will continue to work. Rex arrives and encourages Adam to drop by The Bull later, as rumours of the Aldridge family’s falling out have spread through the village. Later, Alice is ordering lunch at the Bull, when Martyn Gibson comes in complaining about Ian’s service at Grey Gables. When Adam turns up for a drink, Alice tries to warn him before Martyn Gibson asks Adam for a word. Martyn praises Ian’s talent as a chef but questions his management skills, before asking about the rumours of Home Farm.When passing by Home Farm, Stella sees Brian struggling with a drench backpack. She offers to assist with the yearlings as it’s a lovely day and she’s concerned for him. Brian insists he’s fine and feels better reclaiming the farm as solely his. Brian and Stella work well as team, when Brian asks if Stella would ever consider coming back to Home Farm? Stella quickly shuts that down, but Brian notes that Stella will have her own farm once she’s married Pip. On the way home, Stella bumps into Alice and asks what is Brian thinking? Alice decides to find someone to help him on the farm. Rex tries to invite Alice back to the boat, but they start to fight as she insists she’s not good company right now.

Lilian admits to Adam in The Bull that her conversation with Brian had been frustrating. In a parallel universe, Brian and Jennifer would be celebrating their Golden Wedding and things would be better. Lilian had checked on Ruairi yesterday and he’s doing better away from Ambridge. Adam discretely confides that he knows about Ruairi, George and the cover-up. Lilian assures Adam that Brian really does love him and Debbie but Adam refutes this. Ian’s being hounded, because of being on the PTA, by parents worried about the OFSTED report. But he can’t help them, he’s not a governor. He confirms that Kate’s taking some shifts at Grey Gables – she’ll either be brilliant or a nightmare. Adam receives an email from Brian– he’s been sacked! He’s not to set foot on Home Farm. He reassures Ian that he has a plan; with the backing of a lawyer he’s going to invoke the mental incapacity clause in the partnership agreement.At Glebe Cottage, Carol tells Anna over dinner that she doesn’t want her to put her life on hold – she knows she has no room for a private life. Hopefully the impressive care assessor will be able to suggest more support. Carol confesses that she feels useless, but that she’s still capable, curious and interested. Conversation turns to Richard but Carol doesn’t see the point of talking about her son. Anna suggests they do something in his memory. Carol softens and, unusually, praises Anna. Although she resists losing autonomy, she appreciates how much her daughter does for her – she’s grateful.

At Kirsty’s first appointment, the midwife advises that based on her previous history and being an older mum, her care will be consultant led. Anything that’s not right should be picked up early. Upset, Kirsty just wants to know that this time the pregnancy will go well. Back at Willow Farm she decides to excitedly confide in Kate that she’s 10 weeks pregnant with Erik’s baby. She wishes she was at 40 weeks already. Although Kate offers cautious optimism, Kirsty repeats her worry – why did her last pregnancy go wrong and what can she do to stop this happening again?Natasha spots some of Tony’s unused tools in the packing shed and wonders if she could sell them online and split the proceeds. She’s stopped in her tracks by the pre-school group chat – Loxley Barrett has received a negative OFSTED report. Tom advises her not to panic – after all Martha, Rosie, Xander and Jack are all doing well there. Natasha feels Nova would be fine anywhere, but Seren lacks confidence and they can’t afford for her to be overlooked in a stretched school. On calling the school, Natasha’s appalled to hear that the head is on long – term sick leave and the deputy did not defend the report. They need to start researching other options, even if they have to travel. She brings up the question of private schools – but how would they afford that, especially for twins? Tom suggests taking one step at a time – and to avoid telling Pat, who has strong opinions on private education.

Having grudgingly acknowledged that her handrails are useful, Carol accepts an invitation to join Anna in The Bull for a meal. As Anna orders, she shares with Tracy how much she’s feeling the pressure of caring for her mum from a distance. Tracy empathises with Anna - although Bert is currently staying with Clive, she does feel that normally the burden of caring for him is all on her. Anna finds it a relief talking to someone in the same boat. When you feel that you’re going to burn out, you need support. Outside, Carol confides in Lynda about the strain that caring puts on her relationship with Anna. To Carol it feels that Anna is determined to make her a burden, and she really doesn’t want the fuss. When Brian arrives, Lilian gives him an earful about breaking up the partnership. She reminds him that his Golden Wedding anniversary would have been soon – Jenny would have been devastated by the family upset. Brian responds that Adam started the fire and Debbie threw petrol on it. Although he knows he’s not innocent of all wrongdoing, Brian insists this reality has to be accepted. Later, Alice asks Brian if he’s perhaps overreacted, but he feels it’s fair for a betrayal such as this. Alice suggests the decision to withdraw the land is wildly illogical and feels like a punishment. But for Brian, it’s a bid for freedom. He proposes that the family get on with the rest of their lives - and let him get on with his.

Catching up with Kate, Alice confirms that Debbie and Adam went off script at the partnership meeting, derailing the plan to get Brian to step back. It’s a disaster for Kate, who relies on her partnership income. Kate hopes Brian could still change his mind where Alice, her and Ruairi are concerned. When Adam arrives, his sisters accuse him of being selfish and duplicitous. Adam blames Debbie for the failure of the plan, before revealing Brian promised him the land but wouldn’t let Adam tell anyone. Then, when Brian suddenly withdrew the offer, Adam couldn’t help thinking he’d lost his mind. They’re interrupted by Ian calling to offer Kate work at Grey Gables. Later, Ian approaches Alice to give his backing to Adam. He confides that Adam was devastated by Brian disowning him and fears losing his siblings as well as his father. Could Alice talk to Brian and see if she can fix it?At Bridge Farm, Susan voices her concerns about Bert and admonishes Tracy for letting him move out. Tracy argues that Bert is a grown man with capacity. Susan is dubious about his ability to make good choices, though. That’s why she stepped in and gave him a health plan. Susan later apologises, Tracy was right, she just made things harder by interfering. Susan’s just visited Bert at Clive’s and was impressed by how Clive’s looking after him. She still doesn’t trust Clive but urges Tracy to enjoy the break for now – she’s earned it.

Anna’s frustrated with Carol as they’re meant to be ready to have grab rails fitted tomorrow, but there’s clutter and chaos everywhere, which Carol resists clearing up. Anna reminds her the Care Assessor’s coming on Thursday, to see how Carol’s managing and whether she’s eligible for extra support. Anna wants Carol to be honest with them, or there’s no point. Alan then arrives for a fundraising meeting, as Carol’s offered to help raise money for the damaged church bell with a scavenger hunt. Carol remarks that Alan reminds her of her late son Richard. Anna can’t see the likeness though before Carol suggests they never agree on anything. Adam visits harassed Ian at Grey Gables, fuming that Brian has tipped him over the edge, after announcing that Adam’s been eliminated from all decision making at Home Farm. Adam reckons that Brian will run the business into the ground. Kate and Alice still aren’t speaking to Adam, and he blames Debbie for the way the meeting went on Friday – what claim does she have on the land when she isn’t even there to farm it? Wondering how Kate will manage for money without the Partnership, Ian suggests offering her work at Grey Gables, doing housekeeping plus the occasional yoga class. Adam decides he’s going back to work, to prove he’s the one who should be steering the proverbial ship. He can’t just ditch his job, hoping Brian might still see sense. But he needs to win Alice and Kate over to his side, Ian reckons, by telling them all about Brian’s duplicity.

The Battling Bulls are playing The Trout, who are two players down. Brad suggests loaning them a player and Tom agrees, so the match can go ahead - but not Zainab, who’s too good. Brad offers himself, really enjoys playing and ends up on the winning side: The Trout. Lynda’s come to appreciate the lightness of pub cricket. She’s looking forward to the Women’s T20 World Cup. Surprised that Clive actually turned up, Brad and Tracy discuss Bert’s departure with him, hoping that Bert will be alright. Returning from Scotland, Kate finds Brian embarked on a new project: re-reading all his Dick Francis novels. Brian accuses her of stabbing him in the back, but Kate assures him their only plan at the partnership meeting was to try and reduce his stress levels. She hadn’t known about Adam and Debbie’s intentions. Kate then asks how Spiritual Home will be affected by the Partnership ending. Although he says it’s safe, Brian reminds her that if it wasn’t for Spiritual Home, they’d still have the farmhouse. Offended, Kate refuses to take responsibility for the house being sold, insisting that was down to Brian poisoning the Am. Later, Kate accuses Brian of bullying, before he finally apologises. Kate tells Brian that his children’s actions come from a place of love and care for him. Brian though can’t understand why they’ve stopped trusting him. Because he’s been behaving weirdly, Kate says, especially the way he’s mistreated Miranda. Brian retorts that everyone makes mistakes. It doesn’t mean he’s losing the plot, just that he’s human.

Just as the partnership meeting begins, Debbie walks in, to everyone’s amazement. Delighted Brian claims he hasn’t lost his touch, highlighting the farm’s financial resilience. Adam begs to differ: he’s been running things and any recent increase in profits is down to him. Uncomfortable Alice supports Adam, but Brian claims it’s been under his supervision, with Ruairi’s help. Adam reckons Ruairi’s been a liability, then outlines his vision. He proposes being left to run the farm his own way, but also suggests Brian leaves the land to him. Debbie has another suggestion: leave the land to her and Adam. Heatedly, they argue that otherwise, when Brian dies, it will be chaos. Alice isn’t on board with this – all she wants is to persuade Brian to retire properly and relax. Horrified, Brian then hears their concerns about his stress levels and mental health. Brian retorts that his recent stresses have nothing to do with his mental health, but won’t admit any more. Adam pushes for a decision on leaving the land to him and Debbie, but Brian points out they’re not even his own children. Alice is shocked, but Brian reasons that Adam doesn’t have the skills to run a business and Debbie has no right, having been away so long. Debbie’s furious, angrily listing Brian’s failings. She declares she’s done, she can’t fight Brian anymore. She doesn’t want the partnership, the land, or a relationship with him. Brian retaliates: he’ll withdraw the land from the partnership altogether. There will be no business with them anymore. He’ll go it alone.

When Anna comes to check on her mum, she can’t find the new security camera, which is supposed to be in the hall. Carol confirms that Leonard fitted it in the loft because Carol wanted it somewhere she could watch her bats. And besides, what good would it do in the hall if she fell in the living room again? Frustrated Anna spots that Carol is still not wearing her pendant alarm either and Carol accuses her of ranting and raving. When Alan calls in, Anna notices that the living room rug has moved, before the truth emerges that Alan moved it and covered up Carol’s near miss earlier in the week. To keep the peace Carol suggests gin and tonics all round while promising to wear her pendant, as long as she can keep the camera trained on her bats. Tracy’s rushing from job to job while caring for Bert in between. Keen to help, Brad offers to cook his grandad’s tea, but Bert wants fried egg and chips, not the turkey stir fry Tracy’s prepared. Bert reflects that Clive wouldn’t insist on exercise and all these healthy meal choices, before revealing that Clive has invited him to move in. Shocked, Tracy tries unsuccessfully to ring her brother to investigate. She can’t believe Clive will have everything set up suitably for Bert, reckoning he’ll be after his pension money. Tracy also thinks Bert will be lonely and Clive won’t have a clue how to care for him properly – it’ll be a disaster.

Akram tells Azra he’s frustrated Tom hasn’t got back to him about his care farm idea, despite promising he would. Akram then finds Helen, who confirms Tom and her decided against it. There’s no way they have the capacity, what with family and farm commitments, plus developing the farm generally. Akram pushes that it would be just one day per week and he’d manage it, but Helen reminds him they’re a working farm, not a care facility. However, Helen asks later if he’d be interested in working in the dairy, should Tracy not want the extra hours. Akram declines, saying he wants to be outside, growing things. For him, farming’s just not about cheese. Den takes Brad on a surprise trip to see Worcestershire play cricket. He’s organised lunch and they’ll look inside the score box. Den questions Brad about his future plans, suggesting he could use his skills in sports performance analysis. Brad’s not sure – he’s hoping to study up to PhD level. Den encourages him to think bigger - having a maths degree could be lucrative, Brad could be a banker! Meanwhile, Den suggests moving away from portering at Grey Gables and using his maths brain right now, maybe as a croupier? Brad doesn’t need to be poor all his life. Later, Brad finds himself confiding in Ben that his dad’s sudden interest in his life is confusing. Is he being nice or is he after something? Brad admits the attention is weird but really nice. Ben advises him to keep low expectations, but enjoy spending time together.

Leonard asks Ben if Ruth has decided whether to be tested for the BRCA gene variant. Ben’s still annoyed with Josh for not wanting to know, an attitude he thinks is typically selfish. Following yesterday’s chat with Alan, Leonard considers how lucky he is being retired, and that life seems more stressful these days. Ben agrees - the surgery has so many people saying they’re struggling. He hopes the mental health initiatives he’s trying to set up with Azra will help address these pressures. Adam has spoken to Ruairi, who agrees that Brian must be made to let go of the business. Ian’s surprised Ruairi agreed, considering the George attack cover–up, but Adam insists it’s for Brian’s own good. Brian’s out of his depth, plus his dinosaur attitudes and lack of futureproofing are no good for Home Farm. It needs to be addressed at the partnership meeting. Kate’s horrified by the idea of caravan storage and agrees with Adam. Ian is concerned that the family are being misled by inaccurate dementia speculation, but Adam feels he has no choice. Having invited Alice to dinner, Adam pleads with her to help form a united front against Brian. Alice wants more time though - Brian really doesn’t think he’s got dementia. Instead of rocking the boat, can’t they just persuade him to get some kind of cognitive fitness test? Frustrated, Adam insists the clock is ticking – he sees Brian floundering badly and if they don’t act quickly, Home Farm is going to fail.

When Leonard retrieves Jill’s cake tin from Glebe Cottage, Carol confesses that she visited but didn’t actually go inside The Laurels. Later, meeting Alan, who’s worried about repairing a cracked bell at St Stephens, Leonard confides that he’s finding Carol’s intransigence a challenge. He wonders if Alan might perhaps have more luck persuading her to have a safety camera fitted close to the stairs. Calling in, Alan helps Carol narrowly avoid a nasty fall, which shakes her. She admits Anna had flagged the rug as a trip hazard but doesn’t want her to know. Alan tells Carol that Anna is on her side. Carol agrees to have the camera installed if Alan doesn’t disclose her near miss. As Brad prepares to take Bert for a walk, Den arrives. Although reluctant to chat, Brad agrees to Den joining them to view Chelsea’s horse box, as that’s on Susan’s ‘designated list of walks’ for Bert’s health. They’re all impressed with the horse box, although the renovation’s cost more than Chelsea had anticipated. Bert then praises Clive for how well he’s doing now. Den sees this as proof that people can change, but Brad says pointedly that sometimes change comes too late. Back at 6 The Green, Den speaks to Tracy about seeing Brad more often after his exams. He wants to plan something really special, to prove it’s not too late to save their relationship. Tracy is sceptical – why is he suddenly wanting more contact? She gives Den a warning, to never, ever hurt Brad or Chelsea.

Enjoying a Sunday lunch with Helen at The Bull, Kirsty mentions being with Amber when her baby kicked on Friday and nearly revealing her own condition, then adds that she turned down a marriage proposal from Erik. With Kate still away in Scotland, Kirsty’s so far avoided telling her she’s pregnant – Kirsty worries Kate will smother her with herbal care and enforced yoga. As Tracy takes dessert orders, Helen asks if she’d consider more hours in the dairy – she was talking to Kirsty and sees Tracy as a natural artisan who can help her develop a new cheese. Tracy however seems impassive and Helen is surprised that she didn’t jump at the offer - who wouldn’t want to be involved in a new cheese? Armed with a lemon drizzle, Leonard visits Carol at Glebe Cottage. She dismisses his concern that she’s not wearing her pendant alarm, before Leonard reveals the reason for his visit – Jill wants Carol to go to The Laurels and have a look around. She’d love Carol to use it for respite care, so that safety improvements can be made to Glebe Cottage. Leonard makes the case that Christine is very happy there, standards of care are excellent - and it would only be temporary. However, Carol refuses to visit until Anna arrives when, feeling pressured, Carol reluctantly agrees to see the care home. However, on arrival with Anna, she doesn’t even get out of the car. Carol says she’s seen enough and is adamant: there’s no way she’d spend a single day in The Laurels.

George is disappointed his online video for the Borchester Show is hardly getting any views. Amber reminds him of her suggestions to maximise impact. George grudgingly accepts Amber’s offer to help, after a pep-talk on feminism. Later, Amber emphasises recognising their separate strengths and playing to them when working as a team, both for the video and when the baby’s born. When Lilian comes over Amber remarks on Brian’s kindness investing in George’s drone. Lilian doesn’t comment, but she’s happy to have George back at the Bull, so long as he keeps in line.Erik and Kirsty talk about Carol, and Anna’s difficulties over care issues. Erik wishes he could stay longer, but Kirsty’s grateful for the time they’ve had. Erik makes a surprise, spontaneous marriage proposal. Assuming he’s joking Kirsty accepts a twig ring, but says no: she never wants to go there again. So long as Erik’s there for the baby, that’s the main thing. Jakob later queries Kirsty rejecting Erik’s proposal, but she assures Jakob she wasn’t being harsh. It’s just there’s no need for marriage – and she loves the fact that Erik is a carefree spirit, hoping the baby will inherit some of that. Erik then offers to buy farewell drinks, but they turn him down. After Jakob and Erik head to the airport, Lilian tells Kirsty she should make an honest man of Erik - but Kirsty’s fine with how things are. Kirsty bumps into Amber and they share a moment when Amber’s baby kicks for the first time – she’ll go and tell George.

Ruth’s brought some garden furniture round for Carol, but Carol’s in provocative mode, snapping at Anna. Anna’s going home later and worries about something happening to Carol. After Ruth goes Anna suggests Carol could stay with her for a while, but Carol won’t leave. Anna then suggests setting up a bed downstairs, as Carol’s been sleeping on the sofa. Carol won’t have it, also rejecting the idea of a respite stay at The Laurels. Later, Anna tries persuading Carol again to stay at The Laurels. Carol talks instead about Anna’s brother, Richard, showing clear favouritism, despite the fact he never visited. Anna leaves Carol to sort out photographs of Richard on her own. Then, before Anna leaves, Carol tells her she’ll rely on Brookfield or Alan to take care of her. Anna insists it’s her responsibility, not theirs. Carol finally mentions hearing how brilliant Anna’s WI talk was, admitting she’s proud of her.Finding Pip busy with the plate meter, Ruth thinks she’s tired and offers to babysit, so Pip and Stella can have a night out - or she’ll cook a meal for them. Pip insists she just wants a quiet night in, before snapping at Ruth. Later, with Pip still being peevish, Ruth brings up the subject of genetic testing. Pip hints that Ruth could pay for a test, but Ruth would rather wait for the NHS. Pip reckons she’d have the test in a heartbeat if she was Ruth. Is she holding off because of Josh? No, Ruth needs to be sure it’s the right decision for her.

Before a Kindness Assembly at Loxley Barratt, Adam, Ian and Alice mention Ruairi moving out and leaving Brian on his own. Alice thought there was a manic edge to Brian when she saw him yesterday. Later, at Grey Gables, Adam and Alice discuss Brian’s behaviour. Adam pushes the idea Brian’s got dementia, affecting his ability to run the business. He proposes a joint intervention at the Partnership meeting, forcing Brian to retire. Alice reluctantly agrees to go along with this, before Ian tells them he’s accepted the job as acting Manager. Adam and Ian celebrate later with beans on toast, hoping for further celebrations to come. At Rickyard, Stella thinks a picture Rosie’s drawn of Pip makes her look sad. This sets Pip off, admitting she wants to be tested for the gene variant, but can’t unless Ruth tests positive – and Ruth hasn’t even agreed to have the test at all! Stella’s looked into private testing, though. It’s expensive but they’d get quick results. Stella gives Pip a helpline number and when Pip calls she explains her frustration at Ruth’s indecisiveness. The helpline volunteer advises Pip on choosing a good quality, legitimate online test, with counselling. Pip asks what happens if she tests positive and the volunteer talks through possible options, before Stella returns. Pip tells Stella she’s decided to order a test and if it’s positive, she’ll deal with it. But she’s not telling Ruth, David or Ben – and definitely not Josh. Pip doesn’t want to have to deal with them telling her what they think. She just wants to know!

Having seen George’s test footage for the Borchester Show, Ruth praises Brian for funding George’s new drone, admiring his forgiveness. Brian’s wary of taking too much credit, before Anna appears and confides in Ruth how difficult she’s finding things with Carol. Anna wants a stairlift and downstairs shower fitted at Glebe Cottage. Ruth reckons that’s beyond their remit as landlords, but Anna offers to pay and Ruth promises to think about it. Kirsty joins them, looking forward to Anna’s talk at the WI, before suggesting a walk round the Rewilding Site with Carol. Kirsty then guides Carol and Anna on the walk, before Anna leaves to prepare her talk and Kirsty offers to show Carol their information on beavers.While helping Pip with the silage clamp, Ruth encourages her to be positive. But Pip can’t stop worrying about the potential implications of Ruth having genetic testing for the BRCA variant.Brian is cleaning up at Blossom Hill after celebrating Ruairi’s new job last night. Ruairi will be moving out and Alice wonders if Brian will be okay living on his own. Brian admits he misses Miranda and Alice probes why he didn’t move in with her. Brian’s evasive, instead talking about Adam’s managerial failings.Later, Anna’s disappointed to hear from Kirsty that Carol’s not coming to her talk. Afterwards however, Alice, Ruth, Kirsty and Anna discuss issues of misogyny and gender-based violence, before Pip steps outside with Ruth. Having been doomscrolling faulty gene variants Pip’s worried sick. Ruth thinks she’s panicking unnecessarily, but Pip’s scared her DNA’s carrying a death sentence.

George is filming Amber at Grange Farm when Brad approaches. They explain it’s to announce she’s having a baby to her followers. Awkward Brad goes to help Keira with some maths. George then films drone footage of the farm from above, but frustrates Amber by downplaying her potential input to the Borchester Show social media campaign. She walks off, before George tells Brad he wants to name their baby after him, but Brad thinks he shouldn’t. Adam tells Ian he has sympathy for Brian, covering for Ruairi, but is convinced they need get Brian to step down at next week’s Partnership meeting. Adam thinks he might be able to get Alice onboard by emphasising how the stress is killing Brian. Ian compares Adam’s situation to his, both having been frustrated in their career. Later at Grey Gables, Oliver apologises to Ian about a delayed catering order, necessitating a last-minute change to the menus. Ian deals with this impressively and helps Lily with a couple of other issues, meaning Oliver can keep his lunch date with heartbroken Miranda. Oliver blames Brian for treating her badly, keeping secrets and telling lies. Oliver then offers Ian the position of acting General Manager, while they continue seeking Dane’s replacement. Adam tells Ian to go for it - they’ll cope with any potential childcare issues. Ian adds that Oliver and Miranda both think Brian is perfectly sane. Adam reckons he’ll have to work hard to persuade Alice that Brian’s madness will destroy the farm, but sticking together is their only chance of salvation.

Alan and Lilian are heading to the Rogation Sunday service at Rewilding Ambridge when Den appears, looking for the cricket ground. After identifying himself as Chelsea and Brad’s dad Den accepts Alan’s invitation to the open-air service, before the cricket starts. Erik’s there with Kirsty, taking extra care over his pregnant partner and confessing he finds Ambridge weird. He thinks Kirsty’s in her element, though. Lilian persuades Erik to play cricket later, as the Battling Bulls are missing several players, before Alan joins them, pleased with the healthy Rogation turnout. Kirsty’s delighted too and introduces the service.Later, at the cricket, Jakob tells Brad he wishes he hadn’t accepted the offer to play, admitting he isn’t sure of the rules. Brad’s not pleased to see Den and doesn’t want him sitting next to him or pretending this is normal. Jakob wonders why Erik’s in Ambridge and Erik’s about to tell him when they’re called away to open the batting. After hitting a four Erik tells Jakob that Kirsty’s pregnant. Jakob immediately questions the level of Erik’s commitment, but Erik just wants Jakob to be happy for them. The Bulls win a tight match and Lilian leads the charge back to The Bull for celebratory drinks. Jakob congratulates Erik and Kirsty together, but Kirsty swears Jakob to secrecy, even from Kate. While Brad’s packing up Den tells him of Jim’s praise, then chastises himself for not being a better father figure. Den makes several suggestions to meet up again, but Brad rejects them all – he doesn’t really want this.

At the Tearoom, Natasha’s positive about the group of potential investors she’s been showing round for Justin. Also there, Brian and Lilian are relieved the threat from George is apparently over, and that Ruairi’s in a better place now. Ben asks how Ruairi’s doing. When Ben last saw him, Ruairi confided he was talking to his mum. Ben mentions his own psychotic episode, but Brian plays down the comparison. Ben ploughs on about possibly missing signs of a serious mental health issue, before Brian reacts angrily. The heated exchange is noted by Tom, but Natasha’s enthusing about the investors and the fact she’s finally sold some clothes on the app. It’s not loads of money, but it’s a start.Brian finds Ben and apologises for being rude earlier, admitting that Ruairi’s been struggling for quite a while. But he’s turned a corner in the last few days. Ben tells him Ruairi’s texted, saying the interview went well, before Brian suggests he’s not such a bad father. Ben then claims he wasn’t questioning Brian’s parenting skills, but Brian fears for Ruairi when he’s gone. At least Ben will always have his back, though.Later at Beechwood, Natasha tells Tom the investors loved the Rewilding site – and Justin was really impressed by her efforts. She’d definitely be up for more work, if Justin offered it. And she’s sold a jacket, which Tom recognises as his favourite! Feisty Natasha says it’s too late to stop the sale, then criticises Tom for not helping sort through clothes to sell in the first place.

Ruairi tells Brian he’s going to tell the police what happened with George. Brian insists he can’t – but if Ruairi does, Brian will confess to the same crime and they’ll both go to prison. Ruairi needs to get on with his life, including a job interview tomorrow. Ruairi then says that instead he’ll tell George the truth and goes. Agitated Brian can’t stop him, but tells Lilian where Ruairi’s going. George doesn’t believe Ruairi though, insisting Brian hit him and Ruairi’s just trying to protect Brian. George suggests counselling to Ruairi, who gives up trying to persuade George of the truth. George assures Ruairi everything’s settled with Brian, now he’s bought the drone. Ruairi sees Lilian on his way home, telling her George didn’t believe him and he thinks that means it’s all over.Tracy tells Bert she hasn’t got time to fix him up with a girlfriend, pointing out how impractical going on dates would be. He should try joining a local group instead. To Bert’s horror Tracy’s preparing a tofu stir-fry, before Brad takes grateful Bert off to vote. On the way back they stop at Ivy’s grave, where Brad asks if Bert’s serious about finding a girlfriend. In turn, Bert asks about Den, whether Brad wants to see him again. Bert reminisces how happy he was one time he met up with Clive. Later, Bert’s unimpressed by the stir-fry and wallows in self-pity. Tracy challenges Bert to call Clive, if he thinks he’ll do a better job looking after him, while Brad decides he won’t contact Den.

Adam tells Ruairi they need to do something about Brian before Home Farm goes to the dogs. Ruairi disagrees, but Adam suspects Ruairi and Brian are hiding something and pushes emotional Ruairi to tell him what it is. Adam’s stunned when he hears Ruairi attacked George and Brian’s taken the blame. Ruairi makes Adam promise not to tell Brian he knows, before breaking down and then storming out. When Ben sees Ruairi rush past, upset, he walks with him to the Am, where Ruairi opens up partially, confessing that he’s struggling to deal with something he’s done. Ruairi then admits he’s started talking to his dead mum and really wishes she was there. Ben’s worried about Ruairi and suggests he needs to find a way to live with whatever it is he’s done, like doing something to make amends. Ruairi agrees, he has to try to make it right.Azra worries to Akram that she needs to put something concrete in place for her Mental Health initiative. She outlines possible reasons why she thinks people in rural areas have difficulty opening up about their mental health, before Akram goes to see Tom and proposes setting up a care farm at Bridge Farm. Tom agrees it could benefit the local community, but thinks they might be too stretched to do it. Nevertheless, he’ll talk to the family and get back to Akram, who then reports this back to Azra with a positive spin. She thinks it sounds fantastic, but then accidentally lets Fletcher fly out of the window.

Anna drops in at Bridge Farm, where she sees Natasha and meets Azra, who talks about the Mental Health initiative she’s promoting. Both Natasha and Anna enthuse about the need for it. Natasha also wonders if Anna would take her place as a speaker at the WI. Later, Leonard and Carol tell Anna about the bats. Anna wants to get rid of them, but Carol’s perfectly happy leaving them where they are, especially as they’re a protected species. Leonard says he’ll seek advice and goes. Carol’s testy with Anna when she starts tidying up and offers to do some shopping, but Carol’s more positive regarding the talk to the WI. Back at the Tearoom Anna tells Natasha she wishes there was someone else to help her support Carol and make decisions. But she does agree to stand in for Natasha at the WI.Azra tells Ruth she thinks she’d be eligible for genetic testing, given the type of breast cancer she had. Ruth tells her that Pip and Ben would like to know if Ruth has the variant, but Josh doesn’t, and since her decision affects all of them where does that leave her? Azra explains the process if Ruth has the test, and the counselling that would be offered. Azra thinks Ruth should talk to her family and think it through. Later, Ruth tells Leonard about her appointment. Wise Leonard counsels Ruth to give it time for everyone to get their heads around it. She’s doing the right thing by considering her options – these things can’t be rushed.

Leonard arrives at Glebe Cottage with the pendant alarm for Carol, who tells him she doesn’t want it. She suspects Leonard’s there to keep an eye on her with the Occupational Therapist. Leonard explains it’ll just be an assessment, but it’s the tin of flapjacks he’s brought which swings the balance, so Carol lets him in. After the Occupational Therapist’s gone Carol grudgingly allows that she did a good job listening and making suggestions. Leonard’s flapjacks and tea-making skills seem to have softened Carol, too. Leonard hints at some tension currently at Brookfield, before Carol tells him she’s been hearing noises at night and thinks it might be the ghost of a vicar’s wife. Leonard goes into the loft to investigate and discovers bats up there. Carol’s delighted, imagining what Anna will say when she finds out…Tom and Natasha discuss the Battling Bull’s heavy defeat in yesterday’s cricket match and the knee injury Tom sustained. Tom’s in a bad mood, but Natasha’s looking forward to showing round a group of prospective buyers for Justin’s shares and selling Ambridge to them. It’ll be a good earner for Natasha, but she’s still anxious about not managing to sell any clothes on the app yet. Tom suggests selling the clothes stored in bags in their loft – so long as he takes joint responsibility and starts using the app as well, Natasha chides. Later, disappointed Natasha admits Justin’s potential investors weren’t interested in anything she showed them, despite her best efforts, while Tom still isn’t keen on getting involved with selling their clothes.

When George asks Brian to give him the money for a new drone, Brian tells him he’ll be in touch. George then bumps into Brad and they talk about Bert’s new fitness regime, plus getting ready for the new baby. Later, Brian confides in Lilian about George’s request, worried it might be the start of a blackmail campaign. Lilian thinks Brian needs to make it clear this is a one-off payment. She’ll be there as a witness, also offering to lift the bar on George at The Bull, so she can keep an eye on him. When George calls round at Blossom Hill later, he’s amazed by Lilian’s offer and very grateful for the money, agreeing this will be the end of the matter. Brian really hopes so.Anna calls Ruth, asking if someone can help set up the pendant alarm she’s ordered for Carol. She’s worried about tomorrow morning, when the Occupational Therapist is due to visit Glebe Cottage. Anna’s busy in court, so can’t be there herself. Ruth can’t help, but then Leonard offers his services, after Ruth tells him about Anna’s predicament. When Ruth calls to let Anna know she’s grateful, but has to rush off. Leonard then tells Ruth he’ll take a sweetener along to Carol’s tomorrow, in case he ends up staying all day. Brad tells Tracy that Den keeps messaging him. Tracy thinks Den wants to make up for lost time, but Brad’s torturing himself about whether he wants Den back in his life. Tracy suggests he take his time to make a decision.

While Ruth waits to hear from Josh, David moans about his Borchester Show workload, before going to meet George and Amber to discuss marketing ideas. George is nervous about making his pitch to David, hoping it will kick-start his business back into life and boost Amber’s ambitions. When David arrives, Amber leads on explaining their concept, with George chipping in. David thinks it sounds amazing but also wants them to promote farming generally. George suggests adding sweeping aerial footage, only he’ll need to buy a new drone. David can’t pay him up front, but George assures David he’ll find the money from somewhere. Later, George promises Amber he won’t do anything dodgy to raise the money but will earn it fair and square.David reports back positively to Ruth, who tells him Josh doesn’t want to know the result if she has the BRCA test. Ruth understands Josh saying that, but it doesn’t help her make the decision whether to have the test in the first place. David thinks they should wait to see what Azra says at next week’s appointment, and try not to worry about it until then, while Ruth apologises for being snappy. Lilian tells Adam she knows Brian reneged on his promise about the farm. Adam doesn’t know why he did and starts opening up, before they’re interrupted. Later, Adam suggests several reasons why Brian has something against him, assuming he’ll never change. Lilian hints at another reason behind Brian’s volte face, mentioning Ruairi, then covers up, insisting Brian isn’t as callous as he seems.

Tom nags at Natasha to put some of her more expensive items of clothing up for sale, but Natasha’s reluctant. One thing she refuses to consider is taking in a lodger.Tracy shows Bert a selection of vapes Susan’s brought over, but he’s unimpressed. Tracy then makes Bert do some Chair Tai Chi, as she agrees with Susan that he needs to get healthier. Bert reckons he just needs to be looked after better and Tracy loses patience, forcing him out for a walk. Recalling how brilliantly Ivy cared for everyone Tracy reckons she’d be nagging Bert to be more independent. Bert suggests Tracy find him a lady friend – that’d put a spring in his step.Lilian finds Brian brooding on how close Miranda and Oliver have become, but Lilian’s sympathies are with Miranda, after recent events. Lilian probes what’s going on between Brian and Adam, while Brian seeks insider information on Justin selling his shares, but Lilian’s giving nothing away. They’re surprised to find Natasha coming out of the Dower House, having been to see Justin. Back at the Tearoom Natasha tells Tom she’s offered to show two groups of potential buyers for Justin’s shares round Ambridge next week – and he’s agreed to pay handsomely! Lilian admires Natasha’s chutzpah, before Brian finally explains about promising Home Farm to Adam, then changing his mind as he doesn’t want to disinherit Ruairi. Lilian stands up for Adam, but Brian insists he can’t tell Adam the truth about Ruairi, fearing they’d only end up arguing again. Lilian offers to speak to Adam instead.

Susan tries hurrying Tracy out of 6 The Green, but they have to settle grumpy Bert first. He complains about being neglected, while rejecting all their suggestions of activities to do and places to go. Eventually they leave him with the remote control and head for the Dairy. Outside, in Bridge Farm yard, Susan and Tracy look at second-hand clothes on Natasha’s phone. Lottie arrives for lunch at the Tearoom and talks approvingly to Natasha about Loxley Barratt School. Natasha later pumps Lottie for more information, as Seren and Nova are down to go there. It’s all pretty positive. While making cheese Tracy and Susan gossip about Lottie dating Chris; Chelsea wanting to stay in touch with Den - and Den’s new wife, Sophe. Susan points out that Tracy waiting hand and foot on Den previously was the same as she’s doing for Bert now. Later, they find Bert’s barely moved since they left him. Susan’s determined she’s going to get Bert up and active, if it’s the last thing she does.Adam has lunch with Ian, happy he hasn’t seen Brian all morning. He’s dismayed about Alice appearing to take Brian’s side yesterday, though Ian can understand why she would after Brian’s been so supportive of her in the past. Following Ian’s suggestion of getting Kate to talk Alice round, Adam reports back later that it was only after he pointed out Brian’s plan for caravan storage next to Spiritual Home that Kate got onboard with him and Debbie. As for Ruairi and Alice though, he’s still not sure.

Adam tells Alice that Debbie agreed Brian needs to step back completely from the farm. Adam will draw up a plan to present at the next partnership meeting, when they’ll all tell Brian it’s time to retire, though Alice expresses her unease at ambushing Brian. At the Eco Office, Brian explains he’s agreed a deal to store caravans at Home Farm. Adam criticises Brian for making decisions behind his back, while Brian makes it clear he’s not going to start running the farm by committee. Adam counters that one person making crazy decisions doesn’t work either. No wonder everyone thinks Brian’s going gaga. Coming into the middle of their argument Alice demands to know what’s going on. Adam continues attacking Brian verbally, while Brian questions Adam’s commitment to the farm. Alice tells Adam to go and cool off. Alone with Alice, Brian insists he’s not going barmy and that Adam’s playing games. Alice assures Brian she’ll continue supporting him.While chatting with Ben in the milking parlour Ruth’s kicked in the shoulder by a cow. She admits to being distracted ever since Pip found her lump. Plus, Ruth’s worried about the potential outcome for all of them if she has the BRCA gene test. She’s been checking the odds of contracting various cancers. Ben tells her to stop looking online and talk to someone who’ll give her proper advice. Asked whether he thinks she should take the test Ben reckons it’s Ruth’s decision. Pushed further Ben admits that in her shoes he’d want to know. Ruth wonders what Josh would say.

Tense Ruth is short with David when he tries talking about the potential outcomes of genetic testing. David heads to Meadow Farm where he checks if George and Amber would like to do some promotional videos for the Borchester Show. They want to attract more youngsters, but their current social media is old hat. George checks they’ll be paid, then David suggests they come up with some ideas before they talk about it further. Later, David again broaches the subject of genetic testing with Ruth. But Ruth quotes various statistics on the chances of her having the variant. David tries to reassure, but Ruth insists, if any of their kids have the BRCA gene variant it’ll be her fault - she’ll be the one to blame.Kirsty tells Helen that Erik hasn’t rung back yet, before speculating whether he actually wants a baby. Helen’s confident Kirsty could go it alone if necessary, before Erik video calls, asking how Kirsty feels about being pregnant. Kirsty admits she’s a bit scared, but really happy too. So is Erik, who’s relieved Kirsty feels the same way. They both can’t quite believe it’s happening and share their joy. On a more sombre note Kirsty outlines the higher risks involved because of her age. Erik assures Kirsty he’ll be there for her, with money, emotional support or whatever else she needs. They’re in this together and he’ll come up to see her when he can. Kirsty then tells Helen she needn’t have worried, as Erik’s over the moon.

In Hungary Debbie tells Adam she’s applying for citizenship, then prompts him to explain how bad things are for him to come all this way. Adam tells her that Brian promised to make him his successor, then just changed his mind. This kind of behaviour is why Adam needed to see Debbie, who now understands the urgency. Adam says they have to speak with one voice at the next partnership meeting and tell Brian to retire. Ruairi’s the only one Adam’s not sure about. Debbie has a prior commitment, so can’t attend. She sighs that these power games and Brian’s cheating are precisely why she’s stayed in Hungary. She assures Adam he’s got her support.Chris, the cricket captain, is missing Kirsty and Adam for the Battling Bulls’ first match, but at least Kirsty’s there to watch. They’re joined by Natasha and Helen, before Tom strides out in his brand new, expensive cricket jumper. While waiting to bat Tom suggests Natasha should sell some bags of her clothes and cut down on subscriptions to raise money and save cash. Their plans to develop different parts of the business won’t come to fruition for months.Kirsty goes to answer a call from Erik, wanting to tell him she’s pregnant, while Helen and Natasha watch Tom bat mightily. The Battling Bulls win, but Tom’s miffed that his jumper has been stretched and ruined by an incompetent umpire. Disappointed Kirsty then tells Helen about Erik’s shocked reaction to her news. However, Helen’s sure he’ll be thrilled when they talk again tomorrow.

At The Bull, David pumps Chris on how to attract more people to the Borchester Show. Chris mentions online videos of craft skills, then suggests talking to Amber and George, who have great video-making skills and farming knowledge. Brian arrives for Elizabeth’s birthday celebration, before Rex joins Chris and apologises for his remark about Alice’s drinking. Rex admits Alice tore into him, while Chris thinks he was more sensitive to the remark than he should have been. When they argue over who should be cricket captain Alice interrupts – she just wants them to get along.Adam tells Alice he’s booked a flight to Hungary tomorrow. Alice tells him about Miranda saying she thought Brian’s erratic behaviour was to do with Ruairi. Alice thinks they should convince Brian to see a doctor rather than fly to Hungary, but Adam reckons Brian’s mental state and the farm are all part of the same issue. They agree it’s too big a risk to include Ruairi in their discussions. So, Adam and Debbie will come up with a plan, then they’ll talk it through with Alice and Kate. Adam calls Brian, who’s not impressed to be told Adam’s disappearing until Tuesday to see a friend who’s having an emergency. Brian harrumphs to David before heading off. Alice intercepts Brian in the car park, then lies that she doesn’t know anything about this friend of Adam’s. For Brian though, it’s confirmation he should never have trusted Adam’s supposed dedication to Home Farm in the first place.

Helen welcomes Miranda to Ambridge after her move yesterday, before Kirsty asks Helen to be with her for a pregnancy test. Kirsty’s spoken to Erik, but not said anything to him about her situation. When the test shows positive Kirsty cries, thoughts of another miscarriage weighing on her, despite Helen’s reassurances. Kirsty hasn’t really made any plans with Erik, but is sure that he’ll do his bit, before swearing joyful Helen to secrecy.Ian turns up at the Eco Office with lunch for Adam, who chastises himself for continuing to work there as if nothing’s happened. Ian suggests a walk, vowing to support Adam whatever happens. Adam remembers how Brian first taught him to love the land, but now he sees the damage Brian has done and wants to rectify that before passing the land on to Xander. Adam can’t see how that’s going to happen, though. Ian then suggests the radical step of flying out to Hungary and talking to Debbie.Alice goes to welcome Miranda into her new home, but finds it difficult seeing how much everything has changed. Alice apologises for Brian’s behaviour before Miranda offers a tour of the house. In Kate’s old room Alice reminisces her childhood, then wonders if Brian was overwhelmed by the thought of too many memories. Miranda thinks it’s to do with Ruairi instead, but doesn’t know what’s going on in Brian’s head. She thinks he’s changed since around New Year, and wishes he’d told her before she exchanged contracts. But really Alice should worry about Brian, not her.

After making a joke to Alice in front of Rex, about him being drunk on Sunday, Chelsea heads off to cut a bride’s hair. Rex then apologises to Alice for the umpteenth time for turning up drunk, inviting her to dinner to make it up to her. However, when Alice arranges with Chris to babysit Martha, Chris asks if she thinks he enabled her drinking. Alice assures Chris she’s never thought that. Chris doesn’t want her to be angry with Rex for inadvertently suggesting otherwise. Later though, Alice confronts Rex about it. Without Chris she might never have stopped drinking. And she doesn’t want Rex discussing her issues behind her back. Rex apologises for being over-protective of her. Alice just wants him to be there for her – and to apologise to Chris.The bride is Sophe, who fills Chelsea in on her previous big wedding and the cut-price version she’s having this time. She describes meeting her fiancé, Mr D, telling Chelsea he’s useless, but kind and soft-hearted. When he arrives it turns out Mr D is Den, Chelsea’s dad. Sophe is offended that Den never mentioned her when he met Chelsea at New Year, calling into question if she really knows who Den is. But Sophe still wants to go ahead with the wedding. Later, Den apologises to Chelsea for not telling her about Sophe and getting married. But he does want Chelsea and Brad to be a part of his new family. Sophe then cajoles Den into inviting Chelsea to the ceremony, and she can’t say no.

Helen catches Tony, who’s heading off to market with David for the Anguses auction. Helen then leaves a message for Kirsty, telling her she’s dumped Dane. Later, Helen goes into more detail about how upset Dane was, before Kirsty talks about needing to speak to Erik as her period’s late. Kirsty then details their lax approach to contraception. Helen thinks it would be wonderful if Kirsty’s pregnant, but when Tony interrupts they deny they were discussing anything important.David tells Stella he feels Tony’s pain at losing the Anguses, but he is looking forward to a rare trip to the market. They compare notes on supporting Ruth and Pip - Ruth’s still mulling over being genetically tested. David reckons it has to be Ruth’s decision, even though it affects Pip and the others. While walking Cleo later, Stella extols the virtues of Spring to Adam, who admits ruefully he should never have returned to work with Brian. Stella empathises, she found Brian equally difficult and quit for the same reasons Adam is citing – mainly that Brian ignores the realities of farming today and has no respect for other people’s opinions. Adam’s grateful for the chance to vent, while Stella wishes she could offer more help.At the market David reckons Tony’s Anguses are the pick of the Primestock Day sale. He tempts Tony with the idea of taking them back to Bridge Farm, but Tony is reconciled to them going – it’s the right decision for the farm’s future. Later, Tony reports that they sold for a higher figure than expected.

Upbeat Adam talks about his plans for Home Farm now he’s secure in the knowledge he’ll be taking over. Ian’s delighted for him, but rushes to get Xander ready for school. Helen and Kirsty compare notes on Dane and Erik, before Alice appears. Kirsty asks about Rex, who’s messaged her saying he’s not well. Alice is unsympathetic. Later, Helen tells Kirsty she doesn’t want Dane to move into the new house. She compares their relationship lightly to Kirsty and Erik’s, before declaring she needs to finish with Dane. Kirsty was about to say more about her and Erik but leaves it. Adam checks in with Brian at the farm, wondering if he’s made an appointment with his solicitor yet. Brian won’t be rushed though, mocking Adam’s ambition, which makes Adam question Brian’s intentions. Brian reacts skeptically to Adam’s ideas for diversification, talking instead about sticking to long-term plans, then telling Adam he may have spoken too soon about handing the farm over. When Adam pushes the issue Brian stuns him, spelling out that he’s changed his mind and refuses to commit to Adam over and above Ruairi and his sisters. Alice tells Ian about Rex’s drunken antics and how he hasn’t stopped apologising since. Rex has pledged to give up drink, but Alice doesn’t want him overreacting and making a huge issue of it. Adam comes in and fulminates against Brian for reneging on their agreement, only just managing to cover in front of Alice what the terms of that agreement were. For Adam, the situation is unsustainable and something’s got to give.

At The Bull Chelsea updates Alice and Lilian on her horsebox and looks forward to styling a bride’s hair on Wednesday. Alice confides in Lilian that she’s spoken to Ruairi about Brian. Flustered Lilian’s relieved to hear Ruairi thinks Brian’s fine, then ushers Alice back to rejoin Rex. Chris and Rex are casting a critical eye over entries for the cricket team logo competition when Alice insists they carry on and leaves them to it. Chris encourages Rex to drink more than he would normally, while apologising for any awkwardness last week at Fallon’s. Rex promises, as Alice’s boyfriend, he won’t cause any issues with Martha, and won’t drink around Alice – suggesting Chris must regret helping to enable Alice’s drinking. Later, Rex is drunk and Chris brooding on what Rex said, before Rex stumbles off to check Alice is okay. Unimpressed Alice lets him into The Nest, but insists he sleep it off on the sofa.Lilian tells Brian they can’t blame Alice for worrying about Ruairi. Brian says he’ll lie to the police, if necessary, should George tell them and they decide to reinvestigate. He won’t allow Ruairi’s future to be destroyed, claiming Ruairi’s his last chance of leaving a legacy. Lilian rubbishes the idea, but over a whisky Brian reflects on his children not being up to running Home Farm. Lilian speaks up for Adam and Brian reluctantly concedes he’s the best bet. If only Ruairi wasn’t so fragile, Brian thinks, then wonders if changing tack and giving Ruairi more responsibility would be the making of him.

Alice admits to Lilian her ongoing concern about Brian’s wellbeing. She’s scared, remembering how things went with Jack Woolley. Lilian plays down the comparison, but Alice is genuinely fearful. She wants the family to talk about the issue openly, including Ruairi. Lilian suggests there’s no need to burden Ruairi, before telling Brian what Alice has said. Brian fears Ruairi would crumble and reveal everything that happened with George. Lilian suggests they could ensure it stayed within the family. Brian admits George knows some of the truth, but thinks Brian attacked him - because that’s what Brian told him. All Brian cares about is protecting Ruairi. Brian then confesses to investing in George’s drones, but fears he might still go to the police. Lilian understands this is behind Brian’s odd behaviour, even at the cost of letting his family think he has dementia. Brian insists he won’t let Ruairi down.At the Rewilding Pip shows Lottie round. Lottie tells Pip off for not mentioning her lump before, even if it turned out to be a cyst. Pip admits her fears about not being there for Rosie’s future and how stressful it’s been with Stella. However, it’s a huge relief now the cyst has gone and the tension has been lifted. Pip then wants to know how Lottie’s date night went… Kirsty and Rex chat about Erik, with Rex suggesting they go out as a foursome sometime. He can’t help feeling Alice is out of his league though, but Kirsty tells Rex he’s a catch and needs to believe it.

Ruth takes Pip and Stella to the Breast Screening Clinic, where Stella frets at having to wait beyond their appointment time. Ruth remembers how stressed she used to get while waiting, before a woman explained the concept of hospital time to her. You just have to settle in and chill. Stella goes to fetch her phone from the car and will pick up coffee and hot chocolate on the way back. Pip confesses Stella’s fretting is driving her up the wall. Pip wants to be as brave as Ruth was, but Ruth reckons it wasn’t bravery – she had no choice in the matter. She wants Pip to stop worrying about what ifs and wait until they know for sure. When Pip returns from her mammogram Ruth talks about Jill and Carol, but Pip knows she’s trying to distract her. In the hospital car park Tracy tells Stella she’s just had her first mammogram since passing fifty, before they head to the coffee shop together. Stella then cracks, telling Tracy about Pip finding a lump and how scared she is. Tracy’s sympathetic, as Stella worries about irritating Pip. By the time Stella gets back the drinks have gone cold. The consultant, Dr Shah, tells Pip her lump is a cyst - there’s nothing to worry about. Dr Shah checks whether Ruth had genetic testing for her cancer, suggesting she might want to consider it. Ruth agrees to think about it. Back home Ruth, Pip and Stella celebrate the good news with cake, raising a toast to being there for each other.

Lilian tells Alice she’s spoken to Brian about breaking up with Miranda, but he wants more time to process his feelings. Alice says she’s spoken to Azra about dementia, without mentioning Brian. Lilian thinks Kate’s concerns are exaggerated, but Alice is still worried. Lilian suggests they should see how things go for now.Talking to Bert, Chelsea mentions bumping into her dad at New Year and having a nice chat. Bert warns her against trusting Den, before inviting Chelsea for a drink at The Bull. While there Chelsea irritates Bert by texting Den. Bert concedes it’s her decision if she wants to stay in touch with Den. Lilian wonders why Bert’s wearing a neck brace, but Chelsea warns him off claiming it’s to do with the church roof collapsing. Then Den texts Chelsea back, telling her he’s got some news.Chris is surprised when Rex and Alice turn up together on Fallon’s doorstep, as he’s leaving. Chris admits he’s going on a date. Rex tries covering any awkwardness by asking about the cricket logo competition and the Borchester Show, before Alice blunders in with a crass remark. After Chris goes the awkwardness continues as it becomes clear Fallon wasn’t expecting Rex. She insists there’s enough food for three, while Alice wonders why Rex was being weird with Chris. After a nice meal they plan an evening out with Fallon and Harrison, before Chris reappears as Alice and Rex are leaving. Chris won’t give any details about his date, before admitting to Fallon he thinks they’ll meet up again.

Alice praises Azra for her Mental Health initiative, then tells Azra she’d like to see addiction services given more prominence. Alice asks Azra for advice on helping a friend whose father may be showing signs of dementia. Clearly suspecting it’s Brian they’re talking about, Azra plays along, suggesting booking her friend’s father an appointment with his GP, but also offering to dig out some leaflets for Alice to give her friend. Bert phones the surgery, demanding an appointment. Lottie explains there are none available, but Bert insists he’ll turn up regardless, before shouting in pain and putting the phone down. Chelsea reluctantly agrees to take Bert in. After he’s been seen Bert complains about the scant advice he was given to alleviate his pain and mutters about his aborted compensation claim, claiming he wanted the money to help Chelsea fix up her horsebox. Chelsea’s touched by this, while Bert insists that’s what family is for. Stella tells Ruth about Pip’s appointment at the Breast Screening clinic on Thursday and asks if she’ll go with them. Ruth seeks reassurance her presence will be welcome, then offers to drive them there. Stella admits how worried she is, but didn’t ask before to avoid bringing up bad memories for Ruth. Stella reckons she’s showing more signs of anxiety than Pip and worries she’s driving Pip mad. Ruth gives Stella some sage advice before they agree a time for her to pick them up on Thursday. Stella later confirms that Pip’s really pleased her mum will be there.

Lilian goes to see Brian and refuses to apologise for being concerned. Brian gets antsy with her, before confessing that he really misses Jenny at times like this. He apologises for over-reacting yesterday. Lilian mentions dementia, but Brian insists that’s not what’s going on. Up on Lakey Hill Lilian tries teasing out of Brian what the underlying issue is. She guesses it’s to do with George. Indirectly, Brian admits, before telling her that it was Ruairi who hit George with a bottle. Lilian struggles to take it in as Brian outlines what happened when George was attacked. Lilian now sees why Brian’s in such a state, but doesn’t understand why Brian can’t move into the farmhouse with Miranda. Brian explains it’s because Ruairi couldn’t face living there and is barely holding himself together. Brian feels Jenny would have agreed with what he’s doing to protect Ruairi. Lilian agrees to go along with it, before Brian makes her promise not to tell anyone that Ruairi hit George.Noting her stress over Brian, Fallon asks Alice how things are going with Rex, suggesting they come over for supper on Wednesday. They move on to cricket teas and the fierce competition to design a logo for the new team, before Fallon asks how Chris is coping with Rex being her boyfriend. Alice asserts that her and Chris are in a good place, but still frets in case Chris has said anything to prompt Fallon’s concern. Alice then admits she’s worried about everything at the moment, but particularly her dad.

While Adam cooks a Sunday roast, Alice tells him she’s spoken to Kate, who agrees that Brian’s break up with Miranda doesn’t make sense. Adam warns Alice off tackling Brian about the subject over lunch, before Lilian arrives. She’s soon followed by Brian, but Ruairi can’t make it. True to Adam’s word Brian tells them he won’t talk about Miranda. Alice sounds out Lilian about Brian’s erratic behaviour recently. Whatever’s going on, Alice agrees with Kate that it’s serious. Later, Brian overhears Alice expressing her concerns to Lilian and has a go at them for gossiping about his private life, insisting he can sort things out on his own. Brian slams out and Alice tells the others that, like Kate, she’s genuinely concerned Brian might be showing signs of dementia.Wearing a neck brace, Bert moans to Tracy about the pain he’s in, but she gives him short shrift. He wants to get compensation after the church roof fell in, though Tracy points out he wasn’t even there. It’s a scam! Bert complains that no-one’s offered to do anything for him on the Easter Promises Tree. He’s determined to pursue his compensation claim from Alan, despite the fact he won’t be able to produce any evidence or witnesses, as Tracy again points out. Bert threatens to get Susan to help with his claim instead. Later, Tracy admits feeling bad. But Bert’s changed his mind about pursuing the claim because of what Tracy said, about Alan helping Susan when the shop needed a home. Alan doesn’t deserve the hassle.

Pip informs David she’s decided to tell Ruth about the lump in her breast. She’d really like Ruth to come to her appointment too, but won’t put pressure on by asking her. Later, Ruth’s glad Pip has told her and also pleased Pip’s been checking and caught it early. Ruth shares some memories of her own experience with cancer and advises Pip to lean on family, friends and medical staff who want to help. Ruth then admits to David that, although she put on a brave face with Pip, she found it hard going. David remembers how desperate he felt at the time, not being able to do anything that made a difference. Ruth’s just happy he was there to hold her hand. They agree they’ll do the same for Pip – that and hope. Azra demands to know when Fletcher the budgie will be rehoused, warning Khalil not to spoil him. Khalil’s supposed to help make dinner, but Azra lets him off when he mentions seeing a friend who might take Fletcher. Before going Khalil briefs Azra on feeding and talking to Fletcher, plus a problem with his feathers. Azra then calls in Alistair, who suggests the issue might be due to stress from changes to Fletcher’s environment. Later, Khalil reports finding a potential home for Fletcher, but Azra wants to concentrate on settling him. Alone with Fletcher, Azra talks soothingly, sharing several things on her mind. Khalil then confirms his mate Barney can take the bird, but Azra reveals a change of heart – Fletcher’s staying right where he is.

Bumping into Adam at Grey Gables, Oliver mentions he’s helping Miranda measure up the farmhouse. However, Miranda hasn’t been cheered up by their lunch and Oliver wants to know what Brian’s playing at there. Adam can’t shed any light. With his sudden change of heart and irrational behaviour, Oliver wonders whether Brian is alright. When Adam goes to Brian and asks the same question, Brian is put out, insisting he’s fine. Adam should forget about it. While debating a couple of contrasting ideas for the farm’s future, Brian’s reminded of his earlier promise and assures Adam he’ll get on to his solicitor next week about changing his will. Later, Adam relays back to Oliver that Brian is perfectly fine and making rational decisions. Oliver still feels for Miranda, though. When Usha and Carol get chatting about the Promises Tree and Emma mentions she’s signing up, Carol wastes no time recruiting Emma to clean her windows. However, Emma pushes back when asked to wash and re-hang Carol’s curtains. Carol suggests Alan could at least do the re-hanging. At St Stephens Alan’s grateful for George and Chris’s help, but explains the work on repairing the ceiling can’t start until paperwork is signed off and hoops are jumped through – plus there’s an injury claim to deal with. Later, Alan gets George to open up to him, before they discuss Alan’s vocation. George then shares his dream of one day having his own flock of sheep. However, having been let down recently by a potential cash investor, George is resolved to go it alone.

Out in the fields David waxes lyrical about Magic Day grass, but notices how distracted Pip is. It’s obvious when Pip makes mistakes that something’s wrong, and she finally admits that she’s found a lump in her breast. She reassures emotional David that she’s having it looked into. Pip doesn’t want to worry Ruth, but David feels she’d want to know. Later Pip gently berates David for tiptoeing around her, trying to encourage normality. Pip doesn’t want to stir up old memories for Ruth, but admits to feeling in limbo herself. Khalil goes round to see Fletcher the budgie, with a bell as a gift for him. Awkward Lynda starts to explain that Fletcher can’t stay. However, she can’t bring herself to disappoint Khalil. Azra’s grateful to Lynda for talking to her again about her mental health initiative, following Lynda’s help with the radio interview. They brainstorm ideas for going out into the community with a stall and recruiting key people like Ben Archer. Lynda encourages Azra to communicate directly with people, before admitting her dismal failure in communicating with Khalil earlier about the budgie. This is news to Azra who takes Khalil round to Ambridge Hall later, insisting he apologise to Lynda and, separately, to absent Robert. Azra then says they’ll take the bird off Lynda’s hands. Fletcher can stay with Azra until Khalil finds a friend who will take him on. As Azra and Khalil depart, Khalil bets that Azra will secretly love Fletcher, while Lynda mutters a sad farewell to the bird.

David notes Adam’s happy mood and prises from him the good news about the Home Farm succession, agreeing to keep the news to himself. This gets them talking about inscrutable Josh, who seems to be enjoying life in Patagonia. While inspecting the rubble at St Stephens with Usha, having been inspired by the Promises Tree initiative, Oliver offers his services to Alan as liaison between Church officials and the builders, to help sort everything out. Usha then has a worrying call from Alan, which she shares with Oliver. One of the congregation has complained anonymously to the Archdeacon, claiming compensation for injury from the fallen ceiling, even though Alan was sure no-one was in that part of the church. Emma teases George about his birthday, before he makes an excuse about why he wasn’t at Keira’s party yesterday. Emma and Amber have both baked cakes, and George jokes that he wouldn’t dare say which is better. He’s delighted by Emma and Ed’s gift – a mini-break for George and Amber in the Forest of Dean. As Emma praises Amber, George notes Emma’s change of heart over the pregnancy. She admits she still worries, but credits Will for offering to swap bedrooms to give the couple more room. George wants to know if Emma thinks he’ll be a good dad, then gets angry when she doesn’t give him a straight answer. When pushed, Emma admits she worries about George’s temper. He’ll need a lot of patience as a dad, but his tendency to lash out scares Emma. He has to control that.

Robert finds Lynda following the guidelines by chatting to the budgie, then admits he cannot reconcile himself to keeping a caged bird. They’ll have to re-home it, but without hurting Khalil’s feelings. They agree to name the budgie Elgar and concoct a barely plausible story for Khalil, before quickly realising the only solution is to tell Khalil honestly that they don’t want the bird. But when Khalil calls, Robert scuppers their plan, to Lynda’s despair. Flustered by Khalil’s delight at his budgie idea, Robert changed his tune and even renamed the bird Fletcher, after the TV sitcom, ‘Porridge’. George appreciates the new Meadow Farm garden gate Chris has made, out of horseshoes sourced by George, as a ‘welcome to Ambridge’ gift for Esme. George dodges having a beer with Chris and says he won’t be joining the pub cricket team. Although tomorrow is George’s birthday, he just wants to get through it. Chris then notices something on George’s ankle and George explains the alcohol tag. Chris feels guilty as he was one of the people who reported George for drunken behaviour, and promises not to say anything about the tag. George knows it’s good for him, but it’s embarrassing. Chris is off to Grange Farm for Keira’s birthday, but George doesn’t feel welcome. Chris persuades George to go with him and wait outside, while he speaks to Keira. When Chris then reports that Keira doesn’t want George there he offers to take George somewhere else instead. But George cycles off, urging Chris to go back to the party.

Alan tells Usha he found the dawn service on Lakey Hill very moving, before she updates him on what people have offered for the Easter Promises tree. Later, while Alan’s delivering his sermon at St Stephens, part of the ceiling crashes down. The church wardens evacuate everyone and no-one is hurt. Relieved Usha then helps Alan to reconvene the service – al fresco in the churchyard. When Adam mentions word is getting around about Brian and Miranda, Brian tells Adam to mind his own business. But Adam’s invested in Home Farm and gets Brian’s attention when he asks about Ruairi: with Ruairi busy at Berrow, what’s the plan for Home Farm? Brian explains that Berrow is a test and he’s discovering that Ruairi isn’t ready to be a farmer. Brian then wrongfoots Adam, proposing that Adam should take over managing Home Farm and inherit the land. Brian’s happy to change his will to give Adam a majority share of the vote in the family partnership, but suggests not telling the others yet. Stunned Adam agrees. Robert has an unexpected birthday gift when Lynda finds a parcel on the doorstep: an empty bird cage with a note from Khalil, explaining that a budgie will be delivered later today. Robert isn’t keen, but Lynda thinks it’s wonderful. Once the budgie’s been delivered, with instructions, Robert insists on giving it back to Khalil. But Lynda knows how upset Khalil will be, having more or less rescued the bird. It can have a much better little life with them than where it was before.

Robert’s weary with Easter Promises volunteering, while Lynda complains about criticism of her over the pub cricket team. Robert confesses he has spoken with Oliver and sorted access for them to the cricket ground. Lynda accuses Robert of being part of the ‘mutiny’ against her, but softens when he flatters her. She concludes that she’s happy to pass the baton onto Robert, while he insists that he will still need her help. Miranda joins Oliver for lunch at The Bull, where Lilian gets drawn in to their discussion about Brian and defends his actions. Brian then arrives and makes things awkward, pushing to have a private moment with Miranda, but she resists. Oliver criticises Brian, revealing he knows about his recent actions towards Miranda. Brian becomes petulant before agreeing to leave, with Miranda’s assurance that she’ll contact him when she’s ready to talk. Lilian asks Brian why he got cold feet over the move, wondering why his concern over Ruairi is enough to end a relationship. Brian admits he doesn’t want to lose Miranda and Lilian urges him to tell Miranda the truth. They’re interrupted by Lynda and Robert, with Lynda surprising Lilian by talking about the need to sort out the new logo and kit for the cricket team. Lilian wonders where Lynda’s change of heart has come from. Brian catches Miranda outside the pub and pleads with her – he wants them to be together. But when Miranda presses him on moving in with her, Brian maintains it’s complicated. Miranda then declares she’s heard enough – it’s over.

Oliver’s grateful to Miranda for her recent help with his near-miss with Duke. Miranda’s sorry for appearing so glum when they chatted afterwards, and gives Oliver the whole story about Brian. Oliver’s horrified to learn how Brian suddenly went back on their plans to move in together. They discuss Jennifer, and Oliver comments on Brian’s past ‘indiscretions’. Miranda seizes on this – she knows about Siobhan, but who else? When pushed, Oliver mentions Brian and Caroline. He regrets his words and tries to get Miranda to give Brian the benefit of the doubt. They discuss Caroline, with Oliver sharing that he normally raises a glass to his late wife on her birthday, which would be tomorrow. Miranda offers to join him and he warmly accepts. Stella struggles gathering Rosie’s things for school, as she tries to help Pip, who’s heading to see Azra this morning. Azra asks standard questions and Pip tells her Ruth had cancer at about Pip’s age. Azra examines Pip and finds a small lump – she doesn’t think it’s anything to worry about but refers Pip to the breast clinic. She explains what will happen. Azra encourages Pip not to worry, and is keen to check she has someone to chat with over a cup of tea. Azra suggests it would be worth telling Ruth. Pip says she’ll think about it. Stella phones to check in and agrees with Azra about telling Ruth, who might be sad to be left in the dark. Pip worries it might stir things up for her mum, but agrees to consider it.

Azra gets Pat and Natasha’s input for the Surgery’s mental health initiative, and Natasha’s not impressed by Tom’s just suck it up attitude. Furious Tony interrupts them, demanding an explanation for the advert listing the dispersal sale of his Angus cattle. Azra’s caught in the middle before politely escaping. Pat reminds Tony that he did agree to this, but Tony reminds Tom that he was going to make the call himself when he felt ready. Tom finally confesses that Helen listed the cattle last week. Natasha joins Pat in helping Tony accept things. Later Pat and Tony reflect. Pat’s encouraging: Tony will find a new project. The farm is in safe hands and change is inevitable. Pat gives Tony a small gift – an Angus herd for his model railway. Softened, Tony forgives Pat for forgetting to tell him about the auction.In the shower, Pip can feel something on her breast and gets Stella to help her check. After some uncertainty, they agree there is something there. Pip will call the doctor tomorrow, as it’s too late today, and they agree to keep things normal until then and not say anything to Rosie. With Rosie put to bed, they have some wine and chat – Stella knows about Ruth’s cancer history. Pip reflects on the past, and how little she has asked Ruth about her breast cancer. She compares herself to her mum, with a young child. Stella encourages Pip not to worry, and they agree there’s nothing they can do until tomorrow, when Pip will make an urgent appointment.

Lynda and Robert tick off their first Easter Promise job – the first of several, to Robert’s chagrin. Lynda’s keen to know if Robert has any requests for his birthday next week. As Lilian looks for Miranda, she gets chatting with Lynda about the cricket team. They’re clearly on different pages about the benefits of the Pub team. Robert quizzes Oliver about the cricket ground, keen to sort out the red tape preventing the new team using it. Oliver had no idea of any issues - it’s fine to use. He agrees to tell Lynda - without mentioning Robert’s name. Oliver also says he’ll think about helping young people with reading as part of the Easter scheme.Updated Lynda seethes to Robert, assuming the old cricket team has turned against her, making up rumours about her supposedly spreading ‘misinformation’. Lynda’s convinced someone’s meddling, and she’ll find out who. Lilian crows to Miranda about Justin finding another investor for his BL shares, but notices Miranda seems flat. Lilian’s surprised to learn that Brian won’t move into the farmhouse with Miranda, who mentions Ruairi. Lilian keeps Miranda company on a ride, speculating that Brian’s actions could be to do with Jennifer and Brian’s association with the house. Miranda becomes emotional, but they’re distracted by Oliver having an issue on his horse, and go to help. Over a steadying drink, Oliver admits he feels past it. Lilian encourages Miranda to back her up in persuading Oliver otherwise, but downbeat Miranda agrees with Oliver’s comment about knowing when to give up on things we love.

Pip calls at Carol Tregorran’s to do some gardening as part of the Easter Promises Tree scheme – but Carol wants to keep the garden as it is, wild and beautiful. She does offer Pip a bundle of garden tools and talks about her history, including being a market gardener. Eventually Carol relents and asks Pip to prune a bit of the garden, and round the back. They chat about Carol’s daughter Anna, who’s trying to get ‘help’ in at Glebe Cottage, cleaning and caring. Carol’s full or praise for Pip the farmer as she asks about her future, taking on the farm and dealing with her brothers. She encourages Pip to make the most of her life, with Stella too, adding a comment that stays with Pip as Stella arrives.Henry’s focused on the job and unemotional as he oversees for the first time a lorry load of goats going off for slaughter. Pat praises Henry, and Tom chats with Henry about cricket and teases Tony for being sentimental over livestock. Tom apologies to Tony and admits he’s been like a coiled spring lately, waiting for Helen and the boys to move out. Tony admits that it’s hard letting go of the Anguses. As Tony explains that he needs time before contacting the auctioneers, horrified Tom knows that Helen has already called them. But he stops himself from letting on. Tom explains his worry to Pat, who says it’s fine – she’ll make sure Tony knows, insisting Tony understands that the Anguses have to go.

Brian feels awful about how they left things and Miranda believes there is more going on with Ruairi than Brian has told her. If they want to stay together, she wants the truth: what is it that Brian isn’t telling her? Miranda makes to phone Ruairi, and Brian angrily stops her. As Miranda continues to challenge Brian on what he’s hiding, he can’t reveal the truth and tries to cover, leaving Miranda wondering what their relationship is. She concludes that without trust they have nothing. At Grey Gables, Tom and Natasha reflect on what it’ll be like when Helen and the boys move out. They’ve had help with childcare and earned a decent nest-egg from the rent. Lynda chats about Palm Sunday and a new Easter scheme at St Stephen’s – the Easter Promises Tree, a sort of volunteering matchmaking service. As Tom challenges Lynda about Ambridge cricket, Natasha feels beholden to her with the Easter scheme and offers something at the Tearoom. Checking their finances, Natasha realises that they aren’t doing as well as she thought. As they discuss Tony’s sale of the Anguses, Robert approaches and tries to clarify Tom’s earlier comments to Lynda, about the cricket, field access and Ed’s Texels. Tom admits he’s confused about it. Robert offers to help, asking Tom not to say anything to Lynda. Robert grills Lynda, encouraging her to support the new pub cricket team. Lynda feels that Oliver will need persuading to let them use the Country Park – and no one will be able to persuade him.

Tracy asks Lilian if Justin’s decided about keeping the horsebox at the Dower House, before revealing the big part she played in him getting a much better offer for his BL shares. Lilian’s furious that Justin never mentioned this to her and has left Tracy hanging. Later at The Bull, Tracy listens as Helen tells Lilian she’s going to become Tracy’s neighbour. Tracy then tells Lilian she’s nervous at the prospect of living so close to her boss. Sympathetic Lilian tells Tracy she tore a strip off Justin, who’s now agreed to let the horsebox stay as long as they need it to.Over drinks Tony brings up the Anguses. Having chatted to David Tony’s decided not to fight Helen and to let the Anguses go. He warns Helen not to forget that she and Tom need to farm with their hearts and for enjoyment, not just for profit. Miranda tells Helen she’s exchanged contracts on Home Farm farmhouse. Helen then reveals she’s had her offer accepted for the house on the Green. Miranda buys wine to celebrate with Brian, but as they raise their glasses Brian tells Miranda he can’t move in with her. He isn’t trying to end their relationship, but Miranda threatens to if he doesn’t explain himself. Brian eventually tells her he doesn’t want to leave Ruairi, who’s very vulnerable right now. None of it makes sense to Miranda, who can’t not buy the house. She shouldn’t have trusted him. Brian wants to move in eventually - but in the meantime what will Miranda do with the house?

Ruth susses something’s up with Ben, who’s been asked by Lily about moving into Josh’s room at the Stables. He’s decided to say no, having seen how upset David and Ruth are about Josh leaving. They admit they are a bit sad, especially with the bad feelings involved. But they’ll try to put things right and hope Josh comes round. As for Ben though, he doesn’t want to abandon them after they’ve been so supportive through his darker moments. They saved his life. Ruth gets a funny message from Josh, then she and David tell Ben he should take the room if he wants to. Later, David and Ruth agree their kids are brilliant.George asks Brian for the money he promised him and wants to tell Brian his business plan, which no longer involves drones. George persuades Brian to go for a walk, explaining he wants to invest in five rare breed ewes. A farmer has offered to put them to his ram for breeding. George will ask Esme to keep them at Meadow Farm, but one day George plans on having his own farm. Brian’s response is crushing: it’s not going to happen. They agreed the money would be for George’s drone business, not this. It’s far too risky. Brian can only see George coming back to him for more money and he’s not having it. Angry George accuses Brian of lying about the offer to pay him and threatens to expose Brian, who walks off.

George promises Esme he’ll be back after his dentist appointment to help with the Lady Day celebration of her tenancy – unless she’s changed her mind about wanting him there. Esme insists they’re a team, before George tells her the truth about going to his tag fitting. He then wonders to Amber if he’s done the right thing. Ed and Eddie choose cider for the celebration at Meadow Farm. Ed’s worried some of his regular work clients haven’t been in touch.Pat tells Esme it’s the forty-eighth anniversary of their tenancy at Bridge Farm, so they can celebrate that too. Walking back with Amber, George admits he’s dreading seeing Esme after rushing off before. Ed and Eddie arrive with the cider, helped by Amber, while George goes ahead. Ed then realises why his clients are ghosting him: because Eddie left them in the lurch, selling his regular supply of hay to the highest bidder instead.When George offers Esme his notice she turns it down, telling him she couldn’t manage without him. She offers to write a support letter to Reg, his probation officer, countering Derek Fletcher’s complaint. George then introduces Esme before she makes a speech, thanking people including Pat and Tony for all their help and generosity. Esme finishes by thanking George, her righthand man. She declares he’s such a hard grafter, she’s really fallen on her feet. George turns down the offer of a cider from Eddie, then whispers to Amber that Esme’s offered him a year’s contract. He hopes he can finally put the last year behind him.

David and Tony exchange thoughts on Esme’s Lady Day gathering and Josh’s sudden departure. David then confides his and Ruth’s doubts over their handling of the Brookfield inheritance. Tony sympathises, telling David about the Anguses and how he thinks Tom and Helen might see the future of Bridge Farm. Having your children tell you what to do is so hard, they agree. It’ll be the same with Pip before long, David thinks, before hoping he and Tony get more time for more chats like this. Brian confesses to Alice that he’s nervous about moving back into Home Farm, before Alice suggests he’s been acting out of character lately. Even Lynda thinks something’s up. Brian dismisses their concerns, assuring Alice he’s fine, before conceding he occasionally fears he’s failed his children. Alice disagrees, even if Ruairi has had a wobble recently. More cheerfully Brian then claims full credit for bringing Rex and Alice together. Later, Miranda joins Brian and Alice for supper. Alice tells Miranda she’s happy about them moving into Home Farm, reassuring Miranda that Brian is happy too. If he's been stressed recently it’s nothing to do with the move or her. After the meal Brian admits he hears Jennifer’s voice in his ear when he’s cooking, before Alice leaves. Miranda then pulls Brian up on an earlier comment that the Home Farm house will be hers, not his. She wants it to feel like his home too, but queries whether it’s what he wants. Brian promises her he does, with all his heart.

Helen finds Tony with his Anguses, but he’s unwilling to talk about them. Later though Helen ambushes Tony in the kitchen, before launching into the farm audit’s conclusion that the Anguses are a drain on Bridge Farm’s finances. Tony argues strongly that the cattle represent years of tradition. Helen has no idea how much they mean to him. Helen takes refuge in the Farm Shop with Tracy, telling her she’s clashed with Tony. It sounds terrible, but she’s sure she’s in the right. Helen then discovers her offer has been accepted for the house on the Green. Helen’s suggestion to celebrate becoming new neighbours proves awkward though, with Helen not appreciating the contrast between her and Tracy’s circumstances. It’s the day of George’s court hearing, but he hasn’t told his parents it’s happening. He has second thoughts though, and Amber goes to see if Emma will accompany them. Emma has to lie to Tracy to get out of helping her with Bert. Amber explains to Emma the hearing is because George was reported for urinating in public, by Derek Fletcher who boasted about reporting him. They both think it’s unfair, before Amber mentions the possibility of George being given an alcohol monitoring tag and Emma agrees to go. Under Emma’s instruction George braces himself for whatever will happen next. Afterwards, frustrated George hates being told by Amber and Emma that he’s better off not drinking. The tag’s going to be fitted on Wednesday, the same day as Esme’s celebration and the last thing George wants is her or anyone else to know about it.

Miranda tells Lilian that Brian really doesn’t seem himself. She’s been worried about some of Brian’s strange behaviours for a while now. Lilian wonders if it’s the thought of moving back into Home Farm, but Miranda doesn’t think so. When Justin joins them, Miranda suspects he knows what’s wrong with Brian. Justin suggests Brian’s worried about his children, especially the ones who can’t stand on their own two feet. Miranda singles out Ruairi as particularly fragile, though Lilian reckons Brian’s always worried about Alice and Kate too. However, both Justin and Lilian feel Miranda shouldn’t worry too much about Brian. Miranda and Lilian then mock Justin for admitting his relief he's never had children to worry about. Ruth and David are discussing a going-away present for Josh when Ben tells them Josh is leaving tomorrow. He’s decided to go early to explore Patagonia before starting work, but is worried how David and Ruth will react. Ben also reckons Josh wants as little fuss as possible, so no farewell dinner or gift – though he might agree to a meal at The Bull. Ruth’s determined Josh won’t go without at least saying goodbye. Later, after the meal, David, Ruth and Ben reflect on getting through the evening without too much ill feeling or awkwardness. David and Ruth then agree that nevertheless, it feels like Josh is leaving to get away from them, after the inheritance decision. Ruth hates the though of Josh leaving under a cloud and just hopes he comes back in one piece.

Helen tells Alan about Carol’s fall, suggesting more people should call in on her. Alan offers to go round later, before Helen apologises for adding to Alan’s burden. When Alan visits, spiky Carol tells him he looks dreadful. Alan mentions her fall and Carol thinks Anna and Helen are as bad as each other, fussing over her. Alan then hands her a list of various services offering help and friendship, but Carol rebuffs his overtures. However, after he leaves, Alan reports to Helen that he could barely get away as Carol was so clearly desperate for company – and notes how frail she looks. Helen suggests he could ask Carol to help with a church activity and Alan says he’ll have a think about something she could do over Easter. Brian asks George for a word about Ruairi, then tells him to leave Ruairi alone. George defends himself, suggesting Ruairi needs more help than Brian can give him. Brian accuses George of winding Ruairi up, but George reckons Brian is manipulative and has made plenty of mistakes of his own. Later, at The Bull, Tracy expresses surprise that Brian even gives George the time of day, after what he did to Alice. Brian thinks it’s better for everyone to move on, but does wonder how George will cope financially, with a baby on the way. Brian then tells George to stay away from Ruairi, offering him a one-off payment to do so. George wants to know how much. Brian suggests helping help with his drone business, but insists George must cut off all contact with Ruairi.

When Neil pops to Meadow Farm with George’s lunch, nervous George admits he thought Neil could be bringing bad news. Neil sympathises, before getting a guided tour of the farm. Esme’s delighted when her landlord messages offering a reduced rental and better terms on their environmental commitment. She’ll take over the tenancy next Wednesday, Lady Day, and plans a gathering to celebrate. George excuses himself, but Esme insists he’s coming too. Neil’s annoyed when Ruairi texts to say he’s sick, but George has a feeling Ruairi isn’t right at the moment. While Tracy’s working on Chelsea’s horsebox at the Dower House niggly Justin says he only agreed to it being there because Lilian forced him. Tracy stands her ground before a solicitor, Olivia, arrives for a meeting. Justin tells Olivia he’s disappointed with the offer for his BL shares by the consortium she represents. She calls his bluff, suggesting he can’t find another buyer, before Tracy interrupts, wanting to heat up her lunch. Justin tells her to wait outside, but Olivia’s happy for Tracy to stay. When asked, Tracy explains what the horsebox is for and Olivia pushes Justin into agreeing he’ll act as Chelsea’s business mentor. The two women bond over having daughters of the same age and laugh at the idea of Justin as Ambridge’s sweetheart. Later, Justin thanks Tracy for breaking the ice with Olivia, who ended up making a more acceptable offer. Tracy clarifies that Justin really will mentor Chelsea, then pushes her luck over keeping the horsebox at the Dower House longterm. Justin agrees to think about it.

Lynda’s heard Azra’s being interviewed on the radio about mental health and offers advice on interview techniques. Azra’s grateful, but worries about making false promises over how much support can realistically be offered. Ben suggested making it a call to action by the community, while Lynda thinks it’s enough to prompt the conversation and point people towards support groups. Lynda then offers to drive Azra to the radio station, allowing her to prepare without distraction. Afterwards, Lynda tells Azra she was brilliant. Azra admits she followed Lynda’s advice, pretending she was in a one-to-one conversation with a close friend: Lynda.Ruairi tells Brian about his conversation with George and how stressed he’s feeling. He wants to tell the police that he attacked George. Brian thinks it’s a terrible idea, as Justin approaches. Keeping his voice raised Ruairi insists he wants Brian to go with him, before making an excuse and leaving. Awkward Brian makes a flimsy excuse for Ruairi’s behaviour, then admits how deeply vulnerable Ruairi is. At which point Justin owns up to knowing about Ruairi’s relationship with Julianne, which involved payment for his company, and how troubling that was. Brian listens intently, pretending he knew as well, before Justin switches subject to confirm he’s finally found a potential buyer for his BL shares, making Brian’s day even worse. Later, Brian pulls Ruairi into a hug. Ruairi can’t stop mulling over what George said about nearly dying, but Brian can’t bear the thought of Ruairi going to prison. He’s determined to protect Ruairi and won’t let him down this time.

Anna returns early from her trip to Venice, confessing to Helen her life’s all over the place, especially when it comes to making sure Carol’s okay, as she never admits to any problems. At Glebe Cottage Anna suggests Carol needs more support. She can’t just rely on neighbours helping out. Carol’s stubbornly resistant before Anna asks if she’ll come and live with her. Carol scoffs, they’d end up killing each other. She’s staying where she is, she values her autonomy too much. Anna then suggests someone checking in on Carol daily, but Carol hated having a cleaner even twice a week. It’s an impasse. When Helen turns up with soup, Carol denounces being seen as a charity case, but still accepts the offer. Anna and Carol continue sniping at each other, while Helen excuses herself to heat up the soup. Seeing George waiting at the bus stop Ruairi offers him a lift to Felpersham. Grateful George is embarrassed to admit he’s going to a counselling appointment, but Ruairi is very encouraging. George then wonders if Ruairi has ever had counselling, before extolling the virtues of going and explaining how his counsellor is helping him see things differently. George is surprised Ruairi never talked to anyone about losing his mum, thinking he’s been lucky by comparison, still having both his parents. George then politely declines Ruairi’s offer to wait and drive him home again, and apologises for comparing his situation to Ruairi’s. Ruairi tells him he’s glad he did, before George thanks him for the lift. He won’t forget it.

Tom tries recruiting George to the Bull cricket team, but George points out he’s still barred from the pub. George probably wouldn’t want to play anyway, not after the way people like Tom treated him when he was looking for work. Later, George sympathises with Esme, who’s still waiting for her landlord to give her a figure for the rent, before she can make decisions like keeping George on. George asks for next Monday morning off, saying he has a dentist appointment. Esme’s landlord emails about the rent – and it’s more than she can afford. Esme despairs over the biodiversity protection figure quoted as well, but George encourages her to negotiate with the landlord, after getting advice from the Tenant Farmers Association.At Berrow, distracted Ruairi gets a tractor bogged down in mud. After Neil tows it out Ruairi nearly breaks down in tears, but covers the reason why he’s feeling so bad. Sympathetic Neil offers to take him for a coffee, as Ruairi struggles to cope with Neil being so nice. At the Tearoom Ruairi berates himself to Neil before George comes over and mentions Amber’s pregnancy, to Ruairi’s surprise. Neil leaves them together, with George commenting on how Ruairi seems a bit out of it. When Neil returns, they check out the latest baby scan pictures. George mentions how close his child was to growing up without a dad, after he was attacked, before apologising for being so insensitive, given Ruairi’s loss of Siobhan. Ruairi tells George he’s sorry for what happened to him and George appreciates the sentiment.

Tom’s feeling upbeat after the Bridge Farm audit, though Helen points out they need a conversation with Tony about getting rid of the Anguses. Helen then gets a call from Anna Tregorran, who’s abroad – her mum’s had a fall. Helen offers to go and wait with Carol for the ambulance, asking Tom to go with her. When they get there however, they have to climb in through a window before helping Carol up off the floor and into a chair. Fiercely independent Carol tells them she cancelled the ambulance when she heard they were coming. She’s sure nothing’s broken, apart from one of her best bone-china cups. Feeling awkward Helen then tells Anna that everything’s okay. Lynda and Jolene are frustrated so few people want to help with Speedwatch these days. Jolene suggests a push for new volunteers to revive Ambridge’s community spirit, before broaching the subject of a new cricket team based at The Bull. Lynda is dead against and wants to come to the meeting about it later to make her disapproval known. Jolene isn’t sure that’s a good idea. Neither is Tracy, but she, Jolene and Tom listen while Lynda makes an impassioned case for the sacred tradition of the Ambridge cricket team. Her audience is dubious until Lynda points out a Bull team can’t be registered in time for the new season – plus she’s promised Ed grazing for his sheep on the outfield. The only way it’ll work is if they come back to Ambridge Cricket Club. But the problem is, no-one wants to.

Jakob challenges Brian’s assertion that Kate is unsettled and wants to move to Scotland, given Kate’s enthusiasm for her work at Spiritual Home. Brian then wonders if Kate is just not letting on how unhappy she is, which gets Jakob wondering if Kate wants to split up.Amber arrives at Spiritual Home for a massage from Kate, who’s a bit cool with her. Amber apologises for being horrible last time and things thaw a bit as they discuss her pregnancy. Later, Amber surprises George at Meadow Farm with a picnic. Amber’s glad she went for her massage and, following her conversation with Kate, encourages George to be more proactive in reading up on pregnancy. She wishes Ambridge had a young mum community. Georges looks forward to a future shepherding, then he gets an email from Reg: his court date’s set for March 23rd. George assures Amber he’ll stick to the rules with the tag – with a baby on the way they have to properly grow up now. Having spoken to Alice Kate challenges Brian on the crazy rumour he’s started about her wanting to leave Ambridge. Brian insists he did the right thing, giving Jakob the heads-up, but angry Kate insists she’s not going anywhere. Brian then tells Kate to put Jakob’s mind at rest, as he’s in quite a state. Kate clears things up with mightily relieved Jakob, but does she need to worry about erratic Brian? Jakob thinks not. He has to go, but not before he and Kate declare their love for one another.

Rex tries talking to Chris about Alice, but Chris only agrees to a pint later in the week, claiming he’s busy tonight. Then Alice appears, wanting to share news of Martha’s star of the week award. Rex slinks off, while Alice checks with Chris that everything’s okay between him and Rex. Lily persuades Kirsty to head to the Bull for a drink instead of Grey Gables, though Kirsty’s keen to avoid gate-crashing Rex and Alice’s date.At the Bull, Chris confesses to Jakob that he feels awkward about meeting Rex now he’s dating Alice, but feigns indifference when Lilian greets Alice and Rex as ‘lovebirds’. Lilian shares her idea of a new Bull cricket team, with Alice, Chris, Rex, Lily and Kirsty all up for playing. Lilian wonders who would be captain. Alice suggests Rex, who agrees – but only if Chris shares the role.Jakob admits to Chris he’s worried about Kate potentially leaving. Chris offers to ask Alice what she knows, reiterating that he and Alice are still a strong pair with a daughter to raise together – no matter who Alice dates. Later, Chris catches Alice, insisting things aren’t awkward with Rex. Chris is keen to chat about Kate, for Jakob. Alice insists Brian has got it wrong about Kate wanting to move away. Chris then asks about Mother’s Day. Alice mentions planting the rose she and Kate bought for Jennifer. She and Martha will do something too. Alice reassures Chris that Rex won’t be joining them – but assumes Chris will. Relieved Chris says he’d like that.

Azra’s grateful to Ben for coming into work at short notice and as he eats a late breakfast they discuss Azra’s fasting. He tells Azra about Josh’s upcoming working holiday in Patagonia and the possibility of moving back to the Stables. Ben feels ready, despite the slight memory of his breakdown. They then talk about this year’s big push on mental health awareness. Later Ben reports he’s contacted Radio Borsetshire; they’ve suggested doing a live interview with Azra next week, linking it with their own mental health campaign. Azra’s nervous about getting her message right, but thinks a call to action might be her best approach. While Jakob attends to a horse with Alice, Brian pops by and notes Rex has a spring in his step. Jakob admits he knows Alice and Rex are an item. Brian’s keen to check in with Ruairi, while Alice suggests Ruairi’s a bit down because of Paul being away. They discuss Miranda’s purchase of Home Farm and debate where to plant a Mother’s Day rose for Jennifer. Brian compliments Alice on looking so well, smugly taking credit for her and Rex. Brian’s worried about Kate and talks to Jakob. Limited to video calls with Phoebe, Brian’s convinced Kate wants to live in Scotland, nearer her daughter and granddaughter. He’s keen to check with Jakob how he’d feel if Kate admits she wants to move. Jakob isn’t averse in theory, but as Kate hasn’t mentioned anything to him Jakob admits a slight panic and wonders whether Kate even wants him to go with her.

George’s probation officer, Reg, has bad news – someone’s made a complaint about George’s ‘public urination’ on Sunday. George protests to Amber; he was barely visible. Reg meets George and asks about his future plans, and mentions some worrying patterns of behaviour linked to drinking. There won’t be a prosecution, but Reg will recommend an alcohol tag for thirty days. George is incensed, but Amber tells him to suck it up. No-one will spot the tag under his jeans, so he can tell his family he’s staying sober to support her. Ruth and David are busy lambing and there’s no rest for David, chair of the Borchester Show. Ben can’t help as he has to work at the surgery today. They miss Josh, whose being merely polite with them currently, and want to make him feel better before he goes away. David suggests throwing a big party. Ben agrees to ask Josh if he’s up for it. Lily and Ben chat as she has a routine blood test. As Ben mentions the party idea, Lily sympathises with Josh’s antisocial mood, recalling her own inheritance issues at Lower Loxley. Ben’s happy to not be in the running at Brookfield. Lily asks him about moving back into the Stables when Josh goes.Later, David and Ruth want to discuss their ideas for Josh’s party. Lily then reports Josh isn’t up for it. Ben suggests Josh would enjoy a meal out. Ruth starts booking a fancy sushi place, but David worries it won’t be enough to convince Josh he’s not the ‘Spare’.

Kirsty’s happy for Rex, promising she won’t tell anyone about Alice. Rex teases Kirsty over her pact with Kate not to watch TV for a week, encouraging Kirsty to break it while Kate’s out for the evening. Rex then joins Kirsty watching the next episode of her favourite TV programme. Kate arrives home unexpectedly early though and busts them, before confessing she had the same idea – she was planning to sneak off and catch up with it on her phone. Relieved Kirsty admits to having zero willpower, as they settle in with popcorn to watch together. Kate admires Alice’s cake for Martha – Jennifer would be proud. Brian and Jakob play with Martha, who’s become obsessed with trains. Brian notes to Kate how well Martha is doing – Alice clearly doesn’t need to worry. Kate’s resigned to missing some of the little moments of Peg growing up. She doesn’t think Phoebe will return to settle in Ambridge. Chris and Alice are pleased at how well Martha’s party went. Chris spots the gift from Rex and as they get talking Alice admits that they have been seeing each other. Chris didn’t imagine Rex was Alice’s type, but he’s cool about it. Over a pint, Brian tells Chris he feels fortunate being able to enjoy these important moments, big and small, with Martha and Xander. Chris reflects on co-parenting with Alice. As the subject of Chris and Alice’s relationship comes up, Chris admits that they’re definitely not getting back together, now that she’s seeing Rex. Brian’s pleased for Alice, while Chris reflects that he’ll get used to the idea.

George helps Eddie set up the cider shed, as Eddie has invited family over to wet the baby’s head following a healthy scan. Eddie reminisces about wetting baby George’s head with Will and David. George is glad Eddie and Will have made up, and Eddie praises George – he’ll be a great dad. Later, Eddie and George walk home, joking about Eddie’s baby name ideas. They bump into Rex who shares cricketing woes - and ideas for a new, different venture. George stops to relieve himself, reacting to a passing car horn.After going for a ride with Alice, Rex offers to help make Martha’s birthday cake, but Alice worries about him being in the house. Rex wonders why they need to keep their relationship a secret. Alice agrees to tell Chris, but only after Martha’s birthday. Kate arrives and they wonder if she saw them kissing, before Kate grills Alice on her plans for Martha’s party tomorrow. Rex gives Alice a gift for Martha, while Alice tries to put Kate off thinking there’s anything between her and Rex. Later, Kate reveals she saw the kiss and they joke about Brian thinking he brought Alice and Rex together. Alice asks Kate not to tell anyone, but admits she’s thrilled. However, Kate soon drops Kirsty an obvious hint. Kirsty isn’t shocked, but realises she played gooseberry when her, Rex and Alice went out recently, before telling Kate about her next exciting trip with Erik. They binge-watch their favourite TV show, before challenging each other’s will-power over screen addiction and keeping secrets.

Having heavily persuaded Ruairi to come round for tea at The Nest, Alice says both her and Miranda are worried about him. Ruairi admits the thought of going back to Home Farm without Jenny there feels really weird. Alice agrees, but also looks forward to sitting by the French windows and conjuring up Jennifer’s presence. Ruairi starts crying, before rejecting Alice’s offer to move into the Nest with her and Martha instead. Alice pushes, she can easily move into Martha’s room and they’d both love his company. Ruairi though insists he’ll stay at Blossom Hill, at least while he can still afford it. Alice reiterates he’d be very welcome and makes him promise that there’s nothing else bothering him. George and Amber ambush Eddie and Will into a meeting, producing the scan photo of Eddie’s first great grandchild. They explain, the next scan’s only eight weeks away and they don’t want to bring their baby home into a divided family. Left alone to talk, Eddie asks why Will can’t put their differences behind him, like him and George have done. Will argues that he couldn’t turn his back on George like Eddie did. He was taking care of someone who could have died. Will then admits what George did to the family was awful, but reckons he’s really turned a corner since. They hug and agree to draw a line, grateful to George and Amber for bringing them together. Elated, Eddie suggests a resurrection of the Cider Club on Sunday. This reunion deserves a celebration!

Celia Sparrow is disappointed to hear from Helen that she’s turning down the job of running Reuben’s dairy. She admires Helen’s loyalty to her family but questions whether that will be enough for Helen long term. With her talent and ambition, won’t she outgrow Bridge Farm? Helen doesn’t agree. Meanwhile, Tracy has got the dairy work under her belt, including a knack with the temperamental curd cutter machine. To thank her for her hard work and discretion, Helen takes Tracy for lunch in the Tea Room. Tracy has helped her make the job decision – Bridge Farm is in her heart and part of who she is. Tracy reminds Helen that Reuben Sparrow’s organic dairy could be challenging competition, but will not have their key advantage – Helen in charge! Helen confides further – she’s put in an offer on a house being sold off by the Housing Association. Tracy’s astonished to realise it’s one of the houses on The Green – they’d be neighbours.Amber anxiously awaits the baby scan with George. As well as checking the baby’s development and measurements, the scan will help Sonya, the sonographer, estimate a due date. Sonya finds a strong heartbeat and delighted Amber and George decide to have photos printed. Amber had considered sharing it on her socials, but decides to keep it to family for now. Filled with emotion on their journey home, Amber feels excited about their growing baby, which according to her pregnancy app, is the size of a lime. They’re having a baby - and nothing else in the world matters.

The Bridge Farm Archers discuss the results of the broadly positive audit. The veg boxes are flying and the Tea Room’s doing okay after the sewage setback. The sausages are coasting, and both Dairy and Shop are doing really well. However, to Tony’s dismay, the Angus herd isn’t profitable and Helen suggests a possible alternative: they could buy in organic beef for the shop and café, switch the herd to more Montbeliardes and thereby up production in the dairy. Sensing implications about his age Tony slams out. Later, he reflects gloomily to Pat that although Tom and Helen are the future of the farm, they need to remember what’s best for the land - and the people who live and farm it. It’s not just about maximising profit. He thinks they’re in danger of taking the soul out of Bridge Farm. As Amber and George work on Eddie’s 75th birthday slideshow, Will joins them but remains determined not to attend the party. He cannot forgive Eddie for how he treated George. Perhaps when George has his own child he will understand why Will can’t move on. Later, Amber reveals to George that she’s taken another pregnancy test. It’s positive, but she’s worried about tomorrow’s first scan, considering she’s had no recent pregnancy symptoms. She’s researched early pregnancy and knows there’s risk, so doesn’t want to get her hopes up. George tries to reassure Amber and Will boosts her by sharing memories of his children’s scans. He remembers Nic being worried but staying focused on being positive. That’s what Amber needs to do too.

Cheese rival Celia Sparrow calls at Bridge Farm, where Helen underplays the audit. As they tour the farm, Celia reveals the reason for her visit. Her musician brother Reuben is opening an organic farm in Little Croxley. Staggered, Helen hears that he’d like her to be Director of Operations in his dairy. It’s an exciting project and he’s offering an incredible salary, enough to move house if Helen wanted. Back at the dairy, Tracy is impressed by the job offer – she’s a huge fan of Reuben’s band Spuggy, and was gutted to miss their reunion tour. But when Helen reveals she doesn’t think she could leave Bridge Farm, Tracy is unconvinced– is she thinking with her head or her heart? Brian tries to reassure Miranda that Ruairi is fine – he’s just worried about Paul and his dying grandmother. This doesn’t ring true to Miranda, so Brian discloses Ruairi’s anguish over the Home Farm move, linked to his memories of Jenny and Siobhan. At Blossom Hill, Miranda gently coaxes Ruairi, who admits he’s struggling. She suggests planting trees at the house, in honour of his mother and step-mother. Ruairi’s about to open his heart when his phone rings and the moment is lost. Later, he tells Brian that he’d been at the point of telling Miranda about the attack on George. Appalled, Brian tells Ruairi he can never implicate Miranda in their mess. Brian agrees that the move isn’t right for Ruairi at the moment and he can stay at Blossom Hill, but warns him to stay away from Miranda.

Eddie surprises George, who’s sorting out old family photos at No 1 The Green. George awkwardly reveals he’s preparing a slideshow for Eddie’s 75th birthday. The memories make Eddie emotional, bringing home how close they’ve always been as a family, and how different things are now – what would Joe say if he were alive today? George insists it’s all been his fault. He regrets what he did to Ed, and what he said about Nic. He’d do anything to turn back the clock and be close again. Touched, Eddie can see he’s trying. He reckons they should put it behind them – after all, who knows how much time he’s got left?Arriving to measure up at Home Farm, Miranda is surprised to find Ruairi, who’s been for a run and found himself there. Sensing he’s not himself, Miranda tries to cheer him with the news that the exchange should be in a couple of weeks. He can come in and have a look as the estate agent should be there. With work as an excuse, Ruairi leaves. Miranda later shares her concerns with Brian, who insists he’s looking forward to the move. Calling in at Berrow Farm, Brian demands that Ruairi tells him what’s going on. Distressed, Ruairi admits he can’t entertain living at Home Farm. For him it represents Jenny and his early life, and would only emphasise how disappointed she’d be in him now. Brian tells Ruairi to pull himself together because they’re definitely moving in, before embracing him and assuring Ruairi that they’ll be alright.

Tom complains that he was too tired to do paperwork last night, with the twins being at such a livewire stage. Helen reminds him that she needs his veg box figures for tomorrow’s audit and considers how Bridge Farm could become more efficient. Affronted Tom pushes back – they are doing well and he has reservations about the need for an audit. As Pat and Helen enjoy a walk, Pat reminds her that Tom is in a different position in life to her, still having young children, and could be feeling threatened by Helen’s energy and enthusiasm for the business. Raising this with Tom, he at first blusters, but then admits to Helen that he does feel a little insecure and in fact it might do them good to have a thorough examination of the business. Things get steamy on Rex’s narrowboat when Alice arrives and offers to refasten his crooked shirt buttons. Later, they are interrupted by Adam, who wants to chat to Rex about potentially playing cricket for Darrington. With Alice hiding in the bedroom, flustered Rex badly covers what he’s been doing. Later, Rex and Alice are hoping no one will realise they are in The Bull on a date. Adam, seeing them, lets Rex know that he hasn’t got it in him to play for a rival team. He asks them if they’d be interested in another team sport – one the whole community could get behind. As they agree, Adam joins the dots – he teases them that it’s sweet they’re together and promises them discretion.

At The Bull Chris tells Hannah he’s looking forward to making the plant supports for her step-father, but generally he feels a bit old and pointless. Hannah sympathises, her career feels stuck too – what they both need is a good work challenge to get them going. David then outlines his idea for a farrier competition at the Borchester Show, which sounds great, but Chris doesn’t want to organise it. When David uses the word challenge Hannah leaps on this, after what they’d just been saying. Then Hannah’s bluff is called when she tries to shirk the challenge of helping with the staging. David puts both their names down and Chris reckons he’s worse than Lynda Snell! Helen’s woken by a call from Kirsty about the Open House viewing later. Kirsty realises Helen’s in bed with Finlay and rings off, before Finlay and Helen agree they’d like to stay there forever. But being together will only happen if one of them gives up the life they have. And that seems impossible, despite the overwhelming strength of feeling between them. They each have too many commitments in their lives to start anew. They decide to make the most of what little time they have left together and leave it at that. Helen then goes to view the house on The Green, telling Kirsty she has no regrets about last night or being unfaithful to Dane. She finally feels ready to move on with her life, for the first time since Rob died. She thinks moving into the house is a definite possibility.

Helen tells Kirsty they’ll be taking Tracy on at the Dairy despite Susan not being keen on working with her sister. Helen admits she’s thinking of taking Dane to meet Finlay later, if she meets him at all. Then Finlay calls and Helen agrees straight off to meet him at the pub where he’s staying, before telling Kirsty her brain went to mush. This is so not her! Later at the pub, Helen waits with Kirsty for Finlay. When he arrives Kirsty quickly disappears, with Helen only belatedly realising she’s gone. By the end of the evening Helen and Finlay finally admit their feelings for each other, before heading to his room together.Brian joins Rex at The Bull to discuss the rewilding walk, with Alice having told Rex she’s delayed. Brian then calls Alice, asking her to come and meet him. When Alice arrives Brian sends her to join Rex and Alice quickly susses that Brian is match-making. She asks him to never do it again as it’s embarrassing. Kirsty then turns up and sits with Rex, oblivious to Rex and Alice’s intended date. She tells them she’s just been a very reluctant gooseberry and needs some company. When Rex mentions the drive-in movie Kirsty is interested and Alice plays a trick on Rex, encouraging Kirsty to go with them, before admitting to Rex with glee that it’s payback for last week’s botched invitation to the Brewhouse. After the film Alice tells Rex about Brian’s match-making. Before an oblivious Kirsty joins them in Rex’s taxi, Rex and Alice admit that there is something between them.

Rex gives Brian a lift back to his car after it ran out of petrol, and stays with him to check Brian’s ok restarting it. Later, at the Rewilding, Brian’s impressed by the variety of wildflowers on one of the trails. He quizzes Rex about his life pre-Ambridge and why he went into farming, before suggesting they meet at The Bull tomorrow, when Rex can talk to Miranda about taking her walking group on a Rewilding trail.At the Dairy Susan is demonstrating the cheesemaking process to Tracy when Chelsea taps at the window. Tracy tells her she hasn’t had time to talk to Lilian yet, then on their break Chelsea fills Susan in on her dilemma – she’s got nowhere to put the horsebox if it can’t stay at the Stables! Chelsea implores Susan to let Tracy sort things out with Lilian, but Susan reckons Chelsea needs to do it herself if she’s a proper businesswoman. Tracy agrees, leaving Chelsea to it. Later, Tracy begs Susan to take her on at the Dairy for Chelsea’s sake, but also because she’s a good worker.At the Dower House Chelsea does her best to sway Lilian, who appears unmoved. Chelsea then walks to The Bull with Lilian, outlining her business plan in detail. Lilian’s impressed but still says no to keeping the horsebox at the Stables. However, Chelsea could keep it at the Dower House instead – there’s a spot in the corner behind the shrubbery. Stunned Chelsea tells Lilian she loves her, and Tracy exclaims to Lilian that she’s just made her the happiest mum in the world!

David approaches Lilian about the Stables participating in the Borchester Show, but then has to go and deal with a calving. Later though he bumps into Lilian again at the Shop and expounds on his idea for some kind of equestrian competition at the Show, to be run by the Stables. Susan suggests a farrier competition would be good too. David leaps on this, encouraging Lilian to get the Stables fully involved, before Lilian discerns Lynda’s influence at work. Lilian and Susan then outline the Snell modus operandi, before Lilian declines the offer. Susan then spills the beans about Chelsea working on the horsebox at the Stables and Lilian thinks she needs a word with Alice…Susan recounts to Chelsea, Jazzer and Tracy what happened at the Dairy yesterday with Kirsty. She wonders if Brad or Chelsea might be interested in helping, but it’s a no on both counts. Chelsea, Jazzer and Tracy then tell Susan about the mobile salon idea and how brilliant it’s going to be, before they go and start work on making the horsebox fit for purpose. Chelsea can’t help worrying how she’s going to pay for people like the electrician they’ll need, but Tracy has an idea and offers her services to Susan at the Dairy. Grateful Susan says she’ll suggest it to Helen. However, when Lilian catches Jazzer and Chelsea indulging in some childish horseplay she demands they remove the horsebox from the Stables immediately. Chelsea despairs, how did everything go this wrong this fast?

Chris and Hannah are on their way to a cricket team meeting Freddie’s called. There’s still bad feeling over last season’s controversial hidden payments to some players, even before Hannah and Chris discover Freddie’s forgotten this meeting and gone to another one instead. Assuming that’s the end for the cricket team Hannah then lays into Freddie’s poor judgement for suggesting George could rejoin the team. Hannah has no time for George and wants to tell Amber how misguided she is for sticking with him. Chris is more forgiving, but admits phoning Probation about George getting drunk on New Year’s Eve. Luckily George wasn’t recalled to prison and Hannah reckons Chris shouldn’t tell Emma what he did, rather than stir things up again.Akram tells Susan he’s happier working outside than in the Dairy, which is disappointing for Susan as working on a big, new cheese order is getting too much for Pat. Then Helen tells Susan Kirsty’s volunteered to do some shifts, starting immediately. Susan’s doubts about Kirsty are quickly confirmed though when she keeps getting things wrong. Kirsty then phones Akram to check on the procedure and is told off for bringing a phone in. Kirsty admits she’s worse than useless, saying the same again to Helen later. Kirsty then asks if Helen’s pursued a house for sale in the village, but Helen’s distracted by a text from Finlay, the crofter she met in Scotland. He’s coming to Borchester and wants to meet up. Helen knows she should say no, but… It's a yes then, reckons Kirsty.

Jazzer tells Chelsea she’ll be getting more money to help pay for the horsebox she wants to convert into a hairdressing salon. But Chelsea worries whether the owner will accept weekly payments, before proposing the idea to Alice, who says she’ll check with the owner.Rex drops in at the Stables and agrees to meet Alice at The Bull on Thursday for their date, but will look for somewhere to go onto. Rex returns later, helping Chelsea measure up the horsebox before Alice announces the owner has agreed to Chelsea’s payment plan. Delighted Chelsea goes to tell Tracy, while Rex suggests a drive-in movie on Thursday. Alice loves the idea, then potentially agrees to Chelsea leaving the horsebox at the Stables while it gets refurbished. David catches Lynda at the end of a Speedwatch session and swerves committing himself to volunteering on the speedgun until Autumn at the earliest. When Jazzer joins them David asks if they will volunteer to help with the Borchester Show, for which he’s chair of the committee. They both turn him down flat, with Lynda suggesting David work on his recruitment technique or the show is doomed to failure. Lynda elaborates that David should develop his big idea first, target the right people to progress it, then reel them in by outlining the benefits that would result, particularly for them. David is hugely grateful for the advice, but still can’t persuade Lynda to volunteer. She tells him she’s far too busy now – but might perhaps be available in the Autumn…

It’s early doors at the engagement party when Zach joins Stella, who makes him apologise to Josh for stirring things up over the pre-nup. Josh accepts he went too far having a go at Pip, but says he’s not staying for the party. Pip hopes Rex might meet a prospective girlfriend tonight, but Rex suggests that issue might already be settled, though it’s complicated and could still go badly wrong… Pip thinks Rex should go for it anyway. Pip and Josh then have an awkward exchange about Carol Tregorran’s tenancy at Glebe Cottage, before Josh apologises for taking out his feelings on Pip. He tells her he’s going to look for work on a farm overseas. Pip’s stunned and thinks David and Ruth will be devastated. Josh points out they’ve both worked abroad in the past, hoping they’ll understand. But it’s his life and he feels he’s got nothing to lose.Zach teases unamused Lynda about her Speedwatch activities, before she puts him in his place. Ruth makes a speech welcoming Stella into the family, raising a toast to the happy couple. Later, Pip and Stella tell Zach that Josh is leaving. Stella feels Zach is partly to blame for stirring things up, but unrepentant Zach feels it could be good for Josh, even if he hasn’t completely made up with Pip.Rex and Alice have an awkward dance together, Pip and Stella a better one, agreeing to set a date for their wedding. Inspired by this Rex and Alice clear up their misunderstanding and agree to go on a date.

Akram’s happy being allocated work in the big polytunnel while Tom and Tony are busy elsewhere. Later though, when Tom calls to check progress, he realises Akram has been digging up the wrong plants. Tony is more forgiving than Tom, suggesting Akram go and fix a leaky tap instead. Tony then has it out with Tom for not taking time to give Akram proper instructions. Despite Tom’s reservations Tony still believes Akram will be an asset to Bridge Farm.Pip and Stella love the decorations they’ve sorted for the party, but the mood in the Events Barn dips when Josh comes to stock the bar and is immediately snippy with Pip. When Stella goes out Josh raises the issue of a pre-nup, accusing Pip of playing Russian roulette with Brookfield’s future. Josh then outlines Pip’s failures in life and love as reasons not to trust her over the issue. Pip accuses Josh of homophobia, but he reckons it’s about her being a complete flake and sewing things up with David and Ruth behind his back. Josh suggests the timing of her marriage plans could hardly be more convenient to coincide with claiming her inheritance, calling Pip a liar before warning Stella to be careful what she’s hooking herself up to. Once he’s gone Stella comforts tearful Pip, quickly realising the pre-nup idea came from Zach, who has previous for stirring things up. Nevertheless, they agree some sort of arrangement would be a good idea. As for doing something about Josh though, they’ll leave that until after the party.

Ruairi worries to Brian about the effect pig farming might have on his social life. Brian’s more concerned by Ruairi turning down the stockperson training, informing him curtly that he’ll be staying at Berrow until Brian says otherwise. Ruairi knows this is about what he did to George, accepting his punishment. Brian disagrees, it’s not punishment. He’s simply doing what he should have done long ago, instilling a sense of purpose in Ruairi and giving him a dose of reality. Lynda arrives, looking to bring Brian back on board with Speedwatch. Brian’s far from keen, resisting both Lynda and Ruairi’s attempts to persuade him. Ruairi then tells Brian he’ll be doing the stockperson training after all, newly determined to be the best pig farmer he can. After Zach mocks Lynda’s attempts to recruit Stella to the Speedwatch team he tells Stella he’s going for a walk around Ambridge, in an attempt to discover what’s so appealing about it. Zach starts at Hollowtree, engaging disenchanted Josh in a conversation about the travails of farming with all the difficulties and uncertainties attached to it. Zach then tells Josh about the financial security a career in wealth management gives him, before suggesting Pip should make a pre-nuptial arrangement with Stella to protect Brookfield’s interests. When Zach returns to Brookfield he helps Stella in the Events Barn, mentioning the pre-nup arrangement to her as well. He offers to help out at the party on Friday, then casually drops in that Josh won’t be in much of a party mood.

At Berrow, Hannah concedes Ruairi’s doing better than she expected. She’s still not convinced he’ll stay the course though, but Ruairi’s enthusiasm is very persuasive. Ruairi goes with Neil to the outdoor unit, where Neil invites him to a meeting with a feed representative before suggesting a more challenging task for Ruairi to get involved with. Later, Neil tells Ruairi they’ve been sufficiently impressed to want to continue his training. He’ll have to take an online welfare handling course, but can then start looking at stockperson training to further his career.In their search for the missing watch Rex and Alice split the list of pubs in Felpersham where it could have been handed in. Alice reassures Rex she’ll be fine going into bars on her own, but when they meet up later they’ve both drawn a blank. They go into the last pub together, the Brewhouse, where the manager tells them she’s kept the watch in her safe. Alice can’t believe the owner was so negligent, leaving it in a toilet, but at least Rex’s problems should be over. Rex offers to share any reward, before they discover they’re both going to the Bull’s Pancake Day celebration. At The Bull later Ruairi tells Neil not to book him on stockperson training as he’s not sure how long he’ll be staying at Berrow. Rex arrives, followed by Alice, who suggests going for a drink at the Brewhouse one night. Misunderstanding Alice’s intention Rex suggests Ruairi could come along too, with Paul and some others. Covering, Alice agrees that sounds wonderful.

Akram is delighted to be gifted a packet of seeds by birthday boy Tony, who explains he’s giving the same to everyone in the village, rather than receiving presents he doesn’t need. Tom hopes it will encourage some guerilla gardening, before sending Akram off to work in the packing shed. Later, Tom finds Akram trialling a new system for packing the veg boxes, but it ends up taking far longer than the usual system. Akram apologises, then admits he’d much prefer doing outdoor work, including all the muckiest jobs.Stella suggests Pip is distracting herself with work to stop thinking about the rift with Josh over the inheritance. Pip admits it’s preying on her mind, before Stella changes subject to Ruairi starting at Berrow, comparing Brian’s rash decision-making to her current boss’s calmer approach. Stella’s looking forward to her brother Zach arriving in the run-up to Friday’s engagement party. Later, Pip is impressed when she finds Zach already installed at the Bungalow, having brought champagne, crisps and other treats, claiming they’re to ease Stella’s burden and celebrate Pip’s birthday. Zach teases Stella with an embarrassing memory, before Tony arrives with his gift of seeds, accepting a glass of champagne in return. When Pip and Rosie go home later, Zach punctures the sense of bonhomie by suggesting Stella might be settling for less than she should in backwater Ambridge, where everyone’s related to each other. Stella gets defensive and Zach backs down, saying he's happy for her, so long as she’s thought through the consequences.

At the Rewilding, Alice is impressed by how the beavers have already reduced the risk of flooding downstream on the Am. Alice takes photographs for Phoebe before circuitously asking Rex if he did anything for Valentine’s Day. Rex, though, is worried about his taxi licence renewal after a drunken fare made a complaint about Rex stealing an expensive watch he left in Rex’s cab. Unless Rex can prove the man’s suspicions are groundless, that could be it for him as a cabbie. Alice suggests checking if the watch was handed in at any of the pubs and bars the man drank at before getting in Rex’s cab, offering to split the task if they go on Tuesday. Rex agrees.Alice confides in Ruairi that she’s debating whether or not to ask out someone she fancies, before noting Ruairi is more subdued than usual. Ruairi denies this and heads off to Berrow Farm, where Neil lets Hannah know that Ruairi is starting as a trainee. It’s all very last minute, Martyn having told Neil that Brian wants Ruairi to get more hands-on farming experience. Hannah is unimpressed, what they need is a skilled worker, not a complete novice. Neil agrees, but they’ve got no choice in the matter. Ruairi then listens carefully while Neil and Hannah outline the seriousness of the responsibilities Ruairi will be taking on and the necessity of avoiding contamination. Later, while Neil starts showing Ruairi what to do, Ruairi gets distracted, then slips and falls in the muck. Hannah can’t see him lasting a week.

As oblivious David collects glasses at The Bull, Ruth turns up dressed for a romantic dinner. Her plan has worked, and they settle down for a Valentine’s date. David admits this is better than squeezing in at the bar, but now they’ve got a free evening tomorrow. Ruth jokes they could use that time to work on their wills, as they’ve already told the children the succession plans. David hopes his dad would think they’re passing on Brookfield in good shape. Reminiscing, the couple recall their first Valentine’s Day together almost forty years ago.Alice arrives at The Bull to take Fallon for a night out at a comedy gig as a surprise. In between acts, Fallon asks if Alice is looking for a Valentine, and flustered Alice confesses there is someone who has crossed her mind. Fallon agrees Rex is lovely. She points out if Alice is interested, she’s just going to have to ask him out. Ruairi arrives back from the Suffolk farm visit to Brian, who tells him about George’s visit and his own subsequent confession. Ruairi is stunned – surely Brian didn’t confess without solid evidence? Brian asks if he’d rather he told George that it was Ruairi who attacked him. Ruairi says he’ll tell the truth, but Brian insists he’ll do no such thing. He made a promise to Siobhan to keep him safe. If Ruairi wants to get back into Brian’s good books, then he’s got to work for it.

Lilian can’t stop George pushing through the door, frantically searching for Brian. Brian appeases Lilian and she reluctantly leaves. Brian hears that George has started to remember things about his attack, particularly the smell of Brian’s aftershave. George accuses Brian – he knew George was too drunk to defend himself. Brian’s motive was that he couldn’t forgive him for what happened to Alice, even though he was only trying to help her… Brian fires back that George tried to ruin his daughter's life and cannot be forgiven. Brian finally admits that he took a wine bottle, followed George and hit him. He didn’t want him dead, so called an ambulance from George’s phone. George retorts that Brian still abandoned him – at least with the car crash George stayed around to rescue Fallon from drowning. Brian notes George hasn’t gone to the police; does he have a plan? George thinks some sort of compensation is in order. It might stop Brian going to jail for attempted murder. Brian scoffs that the smell of aftershave is not reliable evidence, especially from one with a grudge and a recent brain injury. George may even be sent back to prison for perverting the course of justice again. Brian suggests they instead call it quits, both forgetting what they did to each other. They agree and both apologise. As George leaves, Lilian returns to the house to quiz Brian, who covers by saying George had heard Brian had been badmouthing him to other farmers, and that maybe it was time to move on. Back home, George replays his recording of Brian’s confession on his phone.

Chelsea persuades Jazzer to test drive the horse box to work out what repairs would be needed. As it judders through Ambridge, Chelsea explains her wedding plan – the horse box would get the wedding party out of the house for their beauty in the ‘Glam Van’, and she’d park up at the venue for the day for people to get refreshed. She’ll also drive to clients’ homes and the painted van will act as her billboard! Jazzer outlines the van’s problems – most likely the clutch, and part of the suspension is shot – enough to haggle the price down to her budget. Tracy catches them on the test drive and can’t believe Jazzer is helping with this mad scheme. He defends Chelsea’s idea and says he’ll help with the repairs and renovations. She’s worked so hard and he wants to help make her dreams true. Tracy is still sceptical – even if Chelsea can haggle the price down, how will she pay for the conversion and repairs?George is retracing his steps on the bridle path where he was attacked, when Amber finds him to remind him about his counselling session. He is distracted as his memory has been jolted and more details about the attack have started to come back to him. Amber thinks he’s avoiding counselling and accuses him of spiralling in his intentions, but he promises he’ll be back from his walk in time – he just needs to get his head in order. Later, George knocks at a door, where Lilian answers his urgent request to open up.

Intrigued Tracy takes excited Chelsea to the Stables, where Alice is waiting to show them something. It’s a motorised horsebox: filthy, with stiff handles and a terrible odour. Chelsea deems it perfect for her new mobile hairdressing salon. Stunned, Tracy asks what’s wrong with a car, but Chelsea has a plan: cleaned and painted, with a styling chair and faux flowers across the ceiling, this would make her really stand out from the crowd. The only hitch is that it’s over Chelsea’s budget. She wonders if her mum could help her out with the shortfall. She’s saved a lot from working hard at the Tearoom and the Orangery, and from her hairdressing clients. Tracy flatly refuses – top marks for ambition, but even if she had the money, there’s no way she’d help fund something so ridiculous, especially as Chelsea can afford a decent second-hand car. George updates Emma on Amber’s mum’s distressing reaction to the pregnancy. Seeing the atmosphere Amber grew up in, it’s made George reflect on the Grundy family, and he realises how lucky he’s been. He asks Emma to think back to when he woke up in hospital as it’s hazy – was it George who first suggested Markie’s gang, or Emma or Amber? He’s becoming increasingly doubtful that the accused men are guilty. Later, when helping to babysit Martha at Little Grange, flustered George insists on leaving. He has remembered something important.

Brian hears Josh’s Brookfield inheritance woes. He encourages Josh to be relieved to not be saddled with debt, and to build on his egg enterprise. Josh is put out that Pip will receive a farm worth millions – maybe he should look beyond Brookfield for his future?Ruairi is planning to visit a large farm to learn about their diversity strategy. With extremes of weather, farming is volatile and grain prices are trending down. Disparaging Brian reminds him of his five decades of farming experience, which counts for a lot in planning. Later, the two discuss Josh’s situation – Brian thinks a mid-size operation such as Brookfield is a poisoned chalice. Ruairi is not afraid of taking on a farm and presses Brian on his succession plan. Brian retorts that Ruairi’s a long way, if at all, from filling his shoes.Although Amber compliments Fallon on her coat in the shop, she is not sweetened and gives a barbed suggestion that Amber could help with Speedwatch, to make a stand for the victims of reckless drivers. Fallon has a plan for Ruth’s Valentine surprise. David is to come to The Bull on Friday to help behind the bar, saying they are short staffed. The secret booking is back on! George has heard that his accused attacker has pleaded not guilty, so the case will go to court. It raises doubt in his mind about their identity. Amber reassures him that he should not have to worry about it, the court will deal with it.

Preparing for Ben’s graduation celebration lunch, Ruth approaches a resistant David about a date at The Bull on Friday night for Valentine’s. He gives excuses that it’s an artificial, commercial occasion. He suggests an eat in meal-for-two from Underwoods. Ruth confides in Stella that she knows David’s trying to surprise her with a booking at The Bull on Saturday, but she wants to surprise him with a better table there on Friday. Ben good naturedly winds Josh up, but Josh is still feeling raw about George at Meadow Farm and it’s awkward. As Ben moves on to chat to Stella about work, Josh accuses him of being holier than thou about his nursing work. Stella’s uncomfortable and leaves them to it. A heated discussion ensues with Josh accusing Pip of making assumptions about who will inherit the farm. During a tense lunch, David and Ruth reveal their decision. Having done the figures, they’ve worked out that Brookfield will only be able to support one family. As Pip is the dairy expert, Brookfield will go to her, starting immediately with an initial part share, with Ruth and David holding the rest. Josh will keep his thirty acres at Hollowtree plus Glebe Cottage. Ben will receive Rickyard Cottage and the bungalow. Josh appears stoic, stating that he’s not surprised. His parents remind him that he’s a brilliant entrepreneur with a great head for business, and this is the best thing for Brookfield. They assure him that he will do well and they will do all they can to support him.

Susan comes to see Clarrie with some early birthday treats and a proposition. Accompanying her on the school pick-up run, Susan asks whether she might be interested in taking back her old job at the dairy. They’re rushed off their feet at Bridge Farm and they need help. Clarrie admits she misses the place and working with Susan, but she enjoys her work at Underwoods Local and in the school. The people are lovely, both jobs are easier on her body, and she gets to pick up Poppy. Susan’s disappointed but glad to see Clarrie so content.There’s a crisis at Meadow Farm. The cows are out and Esme’s struggling. George lends a capable hand and the animals are soon under control. Later George reassures Esme. He’s located the cause of the escape – there’s a broken gate on the winter housing. Esme’s grateful. When Josh finds George fixing the gate, he admits he must have knocked it yesterday when he was scraping the yard. He feels awful but George tells him to stop worrying, it’s all fine. Josh apologises to Esme, who thinks the work at Meadow Farm might be too much for him. He has his own business to keep running. She needs to stand on her own feet, and besides she has George helping now. When Josh declares he doesn’t trust George, Esme doesn’t share his scepticism. She believes George is genuine and that the job means a lot to him. She offers George the afternoon milking, and Josh has to reluctantly let go of the reins.

At the Bull Ruth takes Kenton aside to ask if there are any tables left for Valentine’s. Knowing that David’s already booked one, Kenton tells her they’re all fully booked. Later he relents and offers her a table for the Friday, explaining David’s secretly booked for the Saturday. Ruth’s table would be a proper one rather than cramped at the bar, so she instructs Kenton to cancel David’s reservation and confirms hers. Later she asks casually if David would like to do something on Friday night. David responds that bearing in mind how busy they are on Saturday, it might be best just to stay in.Amber and George agree that whatever happens at the dinner with Amber’s parents, they have each other’s backs. Anne Marie and Bill politely cover their mild surprise at seeing George before settling in to chat about the ‘situation’, and the plan. When it becomes clear this means questioning whether or not Amber’s pregnancy will go ahead, Amber’s firm that this is not an accident; she’s having her baby and will live with George. Anne Marie persists with her view that they have options. Appalled Amber tries to close the conversation down, but her mother insists she doesn’t want Amber to be trapped. Gutted not to have her parents support, Amber chooses George, and the family who’ll love her just as she is. Amber worries to George she might turn out like her mum, but George reassures her. They have everything they need, together.

Pip and Stella visit Ruth and David. When they’re cagey Ruth wants to know what they have to say. Pip blurts out that they’re getting married, and they recount the story of the engagement ring to her astounded parents. They make a toast, and Ruth offers the events barn as a venue for their party. Ruth reports later that Jill has insisted they all go to the Bull tomorrow night to celebrate. Ruth and David agree it’s lovely news but it gives you a bit of a jolt when your children move on to their next life stage. David observes they’ll need to consider the future of the farm at some point.Amber picks up George from Meadow Farm after work. George reckons the work’s going fine. He admits Josh is posing a problem but it’s no big deal. Amber’s disappointed George didn’t confide in her sooner. George is touched when Amber takes them to his favourite chippy, something he’d been looking forward to since his release from prison. They enjoy a moment eating fish and chips from the paper, before Amber admits she’s going to see her parents tomorrow night, and not going out for a friend’s birthday as she’d originally told George. George is shocked to hear Anne Marie knows about the baby. Amber feels her mum might genuinely want to help, and could even be ready to accept them as a couple. George offers to go with Amber tomorrow. He hopes she’s right about her parents, but whatever happens, he’ll be there for her.

Susan’s working over her hours in order to cope with a large new order. She and Pat agree the order’s good news, they just weren’t ready for it. Pat explains that instead of receiving presents for his 75th birthday, Tony wants to give everyone in the village a packet of organic seeds. Susan thinks it’s a lovely idea. By the end of her shift she’s looking forward to home and a hot bath. She and Pat agree there’s enough work for another person to be in the dairy at least part time. Pat says Helen has someone in mind. Susan says she’ll keep her eyes peeled too.Over a delicious meal cooked by Stella, Pip tries again to raise her worries over her birthday treat, but they’re interrupted by a noise from the kitchen. Cleo the dog’s stolen some of the cheesecake Stella’s prepared as dessert. Stella worries Cleo may have swallowed something dangerous. Slightly bewildered Pip agrees they should get her checked over. Paul shows Stella the scan he’s done of Cleo – she’s swallowed a small object. It won’t do her any damage but Paul reckons Stella should show Pip the scan. As Pip peers at the picture she’s confused to see a ring. Stella explains she’d put it on top of Pip’s portion of cheesecake, as a proposal. Pip’s bowled over and encourages Stella to propose properly, which she does. Delighted Paul appears and suggests an engagement party. They all agree that this ridiculous chaotic proposal suits the couple down to the ground.

Will prepares George an early hot breakfast for his first shift at Meadow Farm. Amber wakes up too and both of them wish George luck as he sets off, before admitting to one another they’re both anxious for him to do well. Esme’s grateful as enthusiastic George offers to fix a blocked gutter once he’s done the milking. Josh arrives and is thrown to find George up a ladder – he was intending to do the repair himself. Esme declares that George has been great, adding that she can manage at the farm now if Josh wants to take a step back and focus on his own business. Josh warns her to be careful that George doesn’t take advantage and expect to be paid extra. Esme counters there’s been no hint of this so far, but Josh isn’t convinced. He’s happy to carry on helping, so why pay George to do the jobs? Later George realises Josh has told Esme his suspicions. George insists he’s just doing his job, before telling Josh he’s off his head.Amber’s shocked when her mum Anne Marie turns up unexpectedly. Anne Marie’s found out about Amber’s pregnancy, and expresses her concern for her welfare. Amber assures her she’s fine and all’s well, but Anne Marie wants to talk further and invites Amber to dinner on Thursday. She misses Amber and just wants to be there for her. Later as Amber, George and Will celebrate George’s successful first day, Amber doesn’t want to break the mood and says nothing about her encounter, insisting all is good.

David and Ruth realise they’ve committed to an event in the barn on Valentine’s Day. Ruth was hoping to offer to babysit for Pip and Stella. David’s affronted – maybe they might want to go out themselves. Ruth comments it looks like they’ll be behind the bar in the barn now anyhow. They can always go out another night. Later David’s disappointed when Kenton tells him the Bull’s Valentine’s event is all booked up. Kenton eventually finds a small space to squeeze them in, if David doesn’t mind sitting at the bar. David’s happy with this. Ruth arrives and suggests Pip and Stella could come to the Bull for Valentine’s if she and David babysit. David hurriedly covers, saying they should probably stick with doing the bar in the barn, to save money.Pip and Hannah admire the art installation at the rewilding site: stained glass set in wood from a fallen oak. Pip admits ruefully that she and Stella don’t get much time together at the moment, though it’s good she’s enjoying her job. Pip wonders whether Stella’s mentioned a cruise for her birthday – she’s being secretive and Pip can’t work it out. She doesn’t fancy being cooped up at sea so she hopes not. Hannah confirms she’s heard nothing, but suggests Pip just asks Stella. Pip duly tackles the topic later but realises Stella had fallen asleep and hadn’t heard a word she’d said. Recounting this to Hannah, Pip asserts there’s definitely something on Stella’s mind. One way or another she intends to find out what it is.

After working a night shift Ben’s late getting up for his graduation ceremony and has to be chivvied along by David and Ruth. Before the ceremony starts David spots that Ben has fallen asleep. For alphabetical reasons Ben will be first up to collect his degree, so Ruth calls his phone, assuming the vibration will wake Ben. It rings loudly instead, immediately waking Ben, who apologises before going on stage to be greeted by the amused Chancellor. Afterwards Ben and David tease Ruth about the phone call and having a cry, but they are all very proud of what Ben’s achieved.Amber encourages George to stay positive about getting a job, before Esme calls, asking him over to Meadow Farm at lunchtime. George assumes it’s a maybe, which Amber tells him he needs to turn into a yes. He’d be perfect for the job and Esme would be lucky to have him. When George gets there, he advises Esme on replacing some rotting fence posts. Esme knows about his criminal past, spelling out that she’s looking for someone trustworthy and reliable. George assures her he won’t let her down, emphasising how much he cares for livestock and how he needs to step up for Amber, now she’s pregnant. Esme reveals she has worked previously with ex-offenders, before offering George a two months’ trial of part-time work milking, looking after cows and doing general farm work, starting on Monday. George is dead chuffed, going to meet Amber after work. She’s thrilled and they both vow to work hard for their future as a family.

Rex asks Joy about New Year’s Eve and Mick’s story about taking Joy to a real-ale pub after midnight. Joy tells him she met Rochelle instead, and they talked about her new partner. It’s bittersweet for Rex, who says it’s great that she’s met someone.Lilian tells Joy that Justin was bordering on triumphant when he came home last night. This is news to Rex, but he really hopes it means Justin has sorted everything for Peggy’s artwork unveiling at Rewilding Ambridge. When David tells Kirsty about the family members who are coming, he picks up that the artwork hasn’t been sorted yet. But when Justin arrives he tells Kirsty he thinks he’s solved their problem, but they need all the muscle power they can muster to make it happen before two-thirty. Rex, Kirsty, David and Justin, plus mini-digger, then work like crazy digging holes to anchor the new, improved artwork. Joy arrives with news that a truck’s waiting down the lane, before Justin co-opts Joy into helping unwrap several packages. Each piece will go into holes on either side of the path, Justin explains. They’ve all been sourced from Julie the artist’s upcoming exhibition. Justin had to expend a lot of persuasive energy as well as hard cash to get her to agree, but so long as Lilian’s happy with Peggy’s Art Installation it’s all been worthwhile.Later, Lilian gives a speech before the stained-glass installation is unveiled to appreciative gasps and applause. Lilian then tells Justin the artwork is awesome and Peggy would have loved it. She can hardly thank Justin enough.

At Rewilding Ambridge Mick asks if Joy can come to the unveiling tomorrow. Rex and Kirsty explain why it may not happen - they’re still waiting for Justin to let them know whether he’s fixed the problem of the undersized artwork. And when Mick sees it he agrees it should be much bigger. Kirsty still hasn’t got hold of Justin, but they can’t cancel until they know for sure what’s happening. By the end of the day Rex and Kirsty agree it’s too late to cancel now. But then comes the really bad news: Borsetshire Life are sending their Assistant Editor and he hopes the artwork will grace their next front cover, just when they don’t want the publicity.Susan reports to Azra on how well their meal with George and Amber went, with Akram’s help. Susan’s impressed by Akram’s work at Bridge Farm, too. George comes into the shop and has a dizzy turn, before Azra insists he goes to A&E. She drives him, with Susan in the back and George feeling mortified by all the fuss, but Azra impresses on George the need for an all-clear on his head injury before he can start work. Later, Susan tells Azra that Amber’s with George at the hospital now and he’s had a scan. She gives Azra a bouquet of flowers to thank her, before Amber messages to say the scan was clear and they’re coming home. Susan and Azra compare notes on the virtues of constructive criticism, before Susan leaves Azra to enjoy the rest of her afternoon off.

Esme tells Ruth on the phone that she thinks she’s finally caught up with getting the farm as it should be. She knows it won’t get any easier, but at least she can look forward now as she goes for the tenancy. George then turns up and gives Esme his CV, offering his services as cowman and farm labourer, while she does her computer work. George also mentions his work with drones, before impressed Esme tells him she’ll be in touch. Later, Ruth drops round and Esme innocently shows her George’s CV. Ruth then tells Esme all about the risk she’d be taking, but Esme wants to think about it before making a decision.While preparing the meal for George and Amber, Susan tells Neil about the meal to heal rituals Akram explained to her. Neil’s not convinced it’s necessary, but Susan thinks they need to give it a go, especially after hearing about Amber’s pregnancy and the bust-up with Emma, both of which they’ll have to pretend they know nothing about. Anxious Amber chivvies George along, not wanting to be too late. She’s worried about her difficult history with Susan and her tastebuds going haywire with the pregnancy. But it all goes smoothly, despite Susan speaking out of character as she follows Akram’s healing precepts, which she explains later, over pudding. Amber then becomes emotional, telling them she’s pregnant. George susses they already knew, despite their best efforts at feigning surprise. He details the negative responses from everyone else, but Neil and Susan are genuinely pleased for them.

Justin waits impatiently for the delivery of Peggy’s artwork to the Rewilding site. Like Kirsty, he hopes it’ll have a big impact. Kirsty’s worried the dimensions of the plans they were sent by the artist are wrong, while Justin admits he did change direction several times on the design. When the delivery arrives, with David there too, they agree the small artwork is exquisite, but Kirsty wonders where the rest of it is. Later, Justin admits there’s been a miscommunication between him and the artist over the work’s dimensions: what’s been delivered is all there is. Justin used up most of the budget on multiple design changes. Kirsty is deeply unimpressed – this is nothing like the large-scale artwork everybody will be expecting to see at Thursday’s unveiling. Desperate Justin promises to fix it by then.Susan’s irked to find Akram has been moving things around while waiting for her at the Dairy. She explains he’ll be observing today before receiving training another time. Akram starts taking notes, but worries he’s got off on the wrong foot. Susan softens a little, but makes it clear she’s in charge. On their break Akram and Susan discuss Clarrie being laid off, with Susan admitting she wanted Clarrie back when Adam left. Susan’s worried about tomorrow’s tea with George and Amber, hoping to get things back on track after Clive’s recent intervention. Akram mentions the meal to heal concept, later explaining this in detail while Susan takes notes. She thinks it sounds perfect, reckoning they’ve both learnt something today.

Lilian’s hanging up decorations for Burns Night at The Bull, while the Highland Games are happening on The Green, when Jazzer reveals the shocking news that his bagpipes aren’t working. Later on though, Jazzer’s happy to accept the plaudits and free pints for his playing, which Ben reckons is better than ever. Tracy makes a very rude ‘Toast to the Laddies’, shocking Neil and Susan, before Rex realises Jazzer has been conning everyone. Joy then reveals that Kenton’s been playing bagpipe tracks through the speakers, while Jazzer keeps out of sight. On The Green Joy sympathises with Ben when his caber toss goes awry. Rex, though, does a great toss and is duly announced the winner by Neil, standing in for Kenton and Jolene, who’ve been mysteriously called away. It later emerges it was to deal with Jazzer’s bagpipe crisis. Rex admits he did his research on tossing techniques and Ben teases him for taking it so seriously. Meanwhile, George has been watching the competition from a distance before Neil joins him. George feels sorry for himself, being the village outcast, but Neil counsels that the village is George’s home and people will have to accept that and move on. Later, Neil brings round his and Susan’s leftover haggis with all the trimmings for grateful George to enjoy. Neil then suggests George ask Esme if he can do her milking, while she works on some IT contracts she’s been offered. George thinks she won’t want to take him on, but Neil reckons it’s got be worth a try. Neil then invites George and Amber round for tea on Tuesday and George accepts.

Esme’s got the all-clear on her TB test but shows David an email from her landlord with a generous offer to buy her out. Over a cup of tea, Esme admits she’s very tempted, given the struggle to keep going at Meadow Farm - but she’d be devastated to give up now. Esme’s head says accept the offer and go, but her heart says stay. Despite the downsides she’s loved what they’ve been doing on the farm for the last three months. David thinks she should take her time before making a decision, but Esme reckons she’s already decided to stay. Will and Emma are taking a break from lambing when George and Amber arrive at Grange Farm to announce they’re having a baby. Will’s thrilled, but Emma can’t believe Amber’s pregnant after they’d recently had a conversation where Amber said she wasn’t even thinking about having a baby. Emma calls them idiots, insisting she means it. George thought she’d be pleased while Amber is more uncertain, but Emma doesn’t hold back with her criticism. George reckons Clive was right when he said there was some very toxic behaviour in the family. The mention of Clive riles Emma further, while Will wants everyone to calm down, before Emma suggests talking about it later. It’s not what she wanted for them, though, while George insists it’s up to them, not her. Later, Will tries looking on the bright side, but Emma only sees the downside of getting pregnant that young with their future so uncertain. Plus, the last thing she wants is having to pick up the pieces when everything falls apart.

Fallon has spent a sleepless night, worrying about the CCTV footage and potentially going to prison. Harrison is adamant no-one will find out, but Fallon wishes she’d never done it. Harrison has to leave and they agree they’re sick of living apart, before Harrison confirms he was never tempted by a female colleague, who made it clear she was interested in him. Fallon suggests they stay in touch more with voice notes, even about mundane everyday stuff, and Harrison agrees. Brad goes to see George and tells him he needs to step back from their friendship. He’s tired of being stressed out by it. George apologises for his behaviour but reckons the attack has been life-changing for him, insisting he’ll do better from now on. He’s mortified that he accused Brad and Amber of betrayal. Brad’s his best friend and he loves him. Brad says he loves George too - but he needs some time and space and has to go. Brad then tells Amber how difficult it was with George and that he’s got to leave her and George to it now. Amber thinks Brad’s lovely for not being angry with her at getting pregnant, but Brad reckons he needs space from her too. Amber then admits she’s scared of telling George she’s pregnant. When Amber gets back to Number 1 The Green she starts babbling nervously. George reckons he’s lost Brad forever, but thinks he deserves it, before Amber tells him she’s pregnant, hoping it’s good news. Ecstatic George tells her it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to him!

Before his driving lesson Paul admits to feeling terrified. As a calming measure Ruairi gets Paul to talk through what he’s doing as he drives. Paul’s then thrilled that he’s driving safely and Ruairi tells him how much he likes him. When Lilian and David’s paths cross near Brookfield they compare notes on turning down Eddie’s overpriced hay. Lilian’s really worried about running out though and so’s David, who suggests they work together to try and knock Eddie’s price down. But when David rings Eddie he tells him that he’s sold the hay to another farmer, at full price. Later, Eddie apologises to Lilian if he came across as smug. She wants to talk about how bad she feels after what happened to George, though. Eddie then confesses he can’t forgive George and doesn’t understand what’s wrong with him.When Amber turns up for her haircut from Chelsea, she soon realises that Brad has told Chelsea everything. Chelsea justifies that Brad needed someone to talk to, before asking if Amber’s alright. Amber still hasn’t told George about the baby, saying she went away to Ireland to sort out her feelings for him – and Brad – but it didn’t help. Then George was so happy when she got back that they decided to try for a baby. But it came as a real shock to discover she was pregnant after George was so awful to everyone. Listening to Amber then praise Brad by comparison Chelsea tells Amber she should be with Brad, but Amber doesn’t see how they can be together.

Chelsea thinks Brad is faking feeling ill to stay at home. Brad then confesses his love for Amber, but Chelsea had already guessed it from the way Brad looks so happy whenever he talks about her, which is all the time. Brad’s worried about George suspecting something’s going on, especially as Amber feels the same way about him. And they feel terrible about the timing of their kiss. Brad then reveals Amber’s pregnant and he’s completely disorientated. After checking the baby’s not Brad’s, Chelsea is amazed Amber told Brad before George. She advises Brad to keep well away from them. But it’s tearing Brad apart, knowing they love each other and can’t be together. Chelsea insists on making Brad breakfast, encouraging him to get on with his life and promising that one day he'll look back and be absolutely fine about all this. At The Bull Jazzer’s still trying to get an answer about floodlights for Burns Night, but Fallon can’t help him. Harrison walks in to Fallon’s delight, before Kenton tells equally delighted Jazzer that he’s got the floodlights. Later, Harrison makes bacon sandwiches while Fallon works. It was Fallon’s lovely message yesterday that brought him back as quickly as he could. They apologise for upsetting each other and Harrison assures Fallon he would never attack someone and leave them in a ditch, no matter how tempted he was. Fallon believes him, then checks he didn’t report her for deleting the CCTV footage. Of course he didn’t – and they agree to call it quits.

At Meadow Farm Esme tells David how stressed she is about today’s TB tests on her herd, before Paul turns up on his bike and explains to Esme about having a driving lesson with Ruairi on Wednesday. Nervous Esme then starts sending cows through to be tested, while Paul checks them off. She’ll have the results by Thursday, Paul tells her when they finish.Fallon covers to Lilian about Harrison coming back last night and not staying over. They discuss Burns Night with Jazzer, who’s asked Kenton to provide floodlights for The Green. Eddie then tries to sell some hay to Lilian for the Stables. She complains later to Jazzer about the price Eddie’s charging, meaning she turned him down. Jazzer encourages David to take part in the Highland Games on The Green on Sunday, though Lilian’s pessimistic about the floodlights. When Fallon asks if Lilian’s okay, she confesses her unease over what happened to George after she’d been so horrible to him – plus the wine bottle used to hit him was one she’d provided. Fallon reassures Lilian, before they both admit hating this time of year. Later, Fallon suggests Lilian come over on Thursday night for a drink and snacks, when they can raise a glass to Jennifer on the third anniversary of her death. Fallon then leaves a message for Harrison, worried at how they left things last night and the fact he hasn’t been in touch since. Fallon insists she believes he didn’t attack George. She loves Harrison and just wants him to call her back.

Susan’s convinced the police have George’s attacker, Markie, in custody, but Amber isn’t sure it was him. They both worry about the effect Clive could be having on George, as does Brad, though at least Clive appears to have gone now. Brad then pushes Amber to go for a walk, so they can talk about what happened on New Year’s Eve. Brad hasn’t seen George since because of how horrible he’d been. Amber reckons George was right to be suspicious about them though, wasn’t he? They were kissing each other while George was lying out cold. When pressed Amber tells Brad she wants to stay with George. Brad then declares he loves Amber, who admits she loves him too. But she can’t be with Brad, because she’s pregnant – and that changes everything.Harrison makes a surprise return visit, accusing Fallon of knowing more about George’s attack than she’s letting on. That’s why she reacts weirdly every time George’s name comes up. Fallon stuns Harrison when she tells him she knows he attacked George. She’s seen the CCTV footage showing a man walking across the Bull car park, bottle in hand, at exactly the right time – and it was Harrison. He denies it vehemently, but Fallon points out how volatile he’s been recently. Devastated by the accusation Harrison assumes it was Fallon who deleted the CCTV evidence. He should report her, because if anyone found out he was hiding something he’d lose his job straight away. Not only that, Fallon would be charged with a criminal offence too.

Susan wonders tentatively to Brian whether things might be better since the family meeting with George. Brian doesn’t know – he’s not sure George can make a life for himself in Ambridge after all that’s happened. Susan points out how Alice has turned her life around. Brian admits there’s something to be said for being close to family when life gets tough. Susan notes that one member of her family is too close for comfort – she supposes she can’t stop Clive from seeing George. To Susan’s alarm, Brian admits he saw them heading to the river with fishing gear. Clive recommends George doesn’t grovel to the very people who are making his life a misery. Saying sorry is weak. Susan calls George, and George fobs her off about his whereabouts. Clive accuses Susan of being toxic and controlling. He offers to take George for a few beers, but George makes his excuses; he has to meet someone. George’s probation officer Reg arrives in Ambridge and tracks down Kenton. He’s received a complaint about George’s behaviour on New Year's Eve. Kenton dismisses the incident as high spirits, and Reg leaves. Jolene disapproves, but Kenton reckons they owe George. Reg catches up with George, who admits confidentially he’s terrified not knowing who wanted him dead. Reg says it’s important George asks for the help he needs. They’re interrupted by shouting outside as Susan and Clive argue. George intervenes, and as Clive starts telling him his theory on who attacked him, Reg appears. Clive hisses that George needs to keep his wits about him.

In the shop, Chris informs Susan he’s finally got through to Hazel. His flat won’t be ready any time soon – he’s ready to give up and look for something else. Suddenly David spots a familiar face on the Green. Chris confirms it’s Clive. Horrified Susan confronts Clive, suggesting he disappears as quickly as he arrived. Clive informs her he’s come to see George. Susan assures him George is fine and doesn’t need him hanging around. Clive counters he understands George better than anyone. He knows what it’s like to be a victim of the justice system, and to have a near death experience. He accuses Susan of treachery. Chris approaches to help his mum, but Clive won’t be moved, declaring his intention to visit Bert and pronouncing Susan selfish for leaving the care of their dad to Tracy. Ruth and David tackle the daunting topic of succession.They mull over possible scenarios. David admits to feeling a bit side-lined some days with Pip and Ruth responsible for the dairy herd. It’s not the mixed farm that Brookfield was built on. Ruth points out it makes them money. They joke that if they row about this they won’t have time to make a decision about succession. David’s up for that!Later Clive claims he’d noticed guilt cross Chris’s face at the mention of George. He implies Chris was responsible for the attack. When he goads Chris about Alice, it’s almost too much for Chris, and Clive accuses him of threatening him with a hammer. Clive urges him to confess to the attack.

George is helping Susan out in the shop. She offers him sausage and mash for tea, but he tells her he’ll be out tonight. When Alice comes in Susan discovers George’s plan to apologise to the Aldridges and take the consequences. She wonders if he’s strong enough. But George is sick of the bad vibes and wants things to change. Alice promises to look out for George. This is about reconciliation, not retribution. Susan thinks Alice is worth more than the rest of them put together. Brian reckons Susan’s displaying the blind faith of a grandparent in believing George’s intentions are good. Susan counters that it isn’t blind faith she has – it’s hope. George is trying to change. Has Brian never thought back to his own behaviour at twenty? And George knows what he did was wrong. She urges Brian to remember that at tonight’s meeting.Later George attempts his apology. He’s met with sarcastic hostility from Ruairi and wary scepticism from Brian, who concedes he respects George’s family and if the apology’s sincere he’ll work towards accepting it. Kate hopes George’s contrition isn’t an act. He needs to face his demons. When voices get raised Brian suggests calling it a day before someone says something they might regret. George apologises for raising his voice, and leaves. He wonders to Susan what more he can do. Susan counsels that he’s taken a positive step and he can’t control the reactions of others. He held out an olive branch, and they have to decide what to do with it.

Jolene detects Kenton’s unsettled mood. He confesses to being wrongfooted by his encounter with George, admitting he accepted the proffered apology. Jolene’s astounded, but Kenton’s had enough of all the conflict. Jolene counters that appeasing George isn’t the answer. His bad behavour is a pattern and she’s surprised Kenton’s been so easily sucked in by his superficial charm. Later Kenton tries to explain that taking away the oxygen of anger will extinguish the flame, but Jolene’s not convinced. Brian too isn’t in a forgiving mood towards George. Seeing the tension between Jolene and Kenton, he thinks they need a holiday. They agree a break sounds tempting.Alice calls Kate to give her the news that that George wants to meet with the Aldridge family to formally apologise. Kate thinks he’s brave – it won’t work out well for him. Alice agrees, but reckons George should be given a chance. Kate wonders if their dad’s invited. Alice confirms for it to work everyone has to be in the room. Kate says if it’s what Alice wants, she agrees it’s a chance to move forward. When Kate asks busy Jakob for his opinion, he doesn’t have time to think about George Grundy right now. Later Jakob tries to relax tense Kate with a meditation but fails miserably. Kate tells him his attempt was giving AI vibes. Alice tries to persuade Brian to attend the meeting with George. Reluctant Brian doesn’t like George even speaking to Alice, but as the head of the family, declares the meeting will be in his house, with him there.

Azra and Akram debate the pros and cons of accepting Helen’s offer of work for Akram at Bridge Farm. Azra feels it’s a bit of a step down to reject lucrative plumbing work in favour of working with veg. Akram points out they have more than enough to live on with Azra’s salary, but assumes this is a no from her. Azra concedes that it’s Akram’s call. Later he explains Helen that his current work gives him more time for the children; if there was just himself to consider he’d definitely say yes. However they’re interrupted by Azra, who hopes she’s in time to make her husband happy: he should take the work. Having Akram contented amongst the plants rather than having his head under a sink means more than being able to accrue savings. Akram’s delighted; how can he say no? His wife never ceases to surprise him.Kenton observes to Alice that the whole village seems on edge since what happened to George. Alice thinks it must be awful for George knowing someone wants him dead. Later George calls at the Nest with a gift for Martha. He wants to apologise to Brian and Adam now that he and Chris have made peace. Alice advocates focusing on rest and recovery, but George is adamant he wants to try and make amends to prove he’s not fake. Alice gets it. George also apologises to Kenton, who accepts it, but without much faith in George’s contrition. George pleads with him to persuade Jolene to forgive and forget.

Chris helps flustered George with a broken washing machine. As they work together, they joke about funny events in George’s childhood. George wonders why Chris has come round. Chris shares his feeling after the attack of being desperate for George to pull through. Since then he’s resolved to let go of the anger. George confesses he feels ashamed of what he did to Alice. Chris asserts they’ve all done things they regret.Azra and Akram are at Brookfield for Sunday lunch. Akram gets a message from Helen. She wants a word with him. He worries that he hasn’t yet paid for the repairs to the polytunnel. Ruth recommends just asking Helen what she wants. Azra reckons farming must be tough and miserable in the winter. Ruth asserts that on the whole she wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s pretty happy with her lot, if she could just bury her head and not think about inheritance tax matters. Azra advises the worst thing would be to do nothing. Ruth resolves to sit down with David make a decision.Helen puts Akram’s mind at rest. The polytunnel’s all fixed. She wants to offer him some hours working on the farm, to replace Adam. Akram’s pleased she’s asked, but while his heart wants to say yes, he can’t justify the loss of income from his current work in order to pick veg. Helen understands and apologises for any offence. Far from it, says Akram, he’s flattered and is finding it hard to say no. What exactly would casual work involve?

Eddie bumps into Brian, and puts right the fact that he’s never properly apologised to him for what George did to Alice. Brian’s appreciative. Eddie should be at a family lunch with George, but he can’t bring himself to go, despite it putting him in the doghouse with Will. Brian wonders if he can be of help, but Eddie says he’s just missing Joe, and feels too old for all this trouble. Brian sympathises, and tries to cheer Eddie up. Eddie brightens slightly, reporting he’s been saving up good quality hay to sell. Brian promises to ask Alice if she wants some – she has no issue with Eddie. Back at Grange Farm, Will’s disgusted at his dad’s absence, and leaves with George. Emma tells him later how upset Clarrie is. Will’s grateful Emma stayed with her. George hears that Markie’s gang has been charged with the attack. It’s a relief, but Emma still can’t relax. Clarrie tells Eddie that George was heartbroken at his no-show – doesn’t Eddie think he’s been punished enough? Eddie reckons that doesn’t equal forgiveness. He moves on to the hay, and Clarrie despairs. Their family’s falling apart, and he's on another get rich quick scheme! Eddie declares he’s as worried as Clarrie, but farm life goes on. Clarrie retorts he’s like a different person. Eddie ponders – maybe he is.Emma presses George on what else he can remember, in case he has to go to court. He doesn’t come up with much; he’s just glad it’s over, and they can get on with their lives.

Akram has time on his hands due to a cancelled job. When Tony mentions a predicament with a ripped polytunnel, hoping Helen can attend to the repair while Tom’s out on deliveries, Akram’s happy to offer his help. Later he’s enjoying the sensation of being back on a farm and working outside. But as he tapes up the tear he slips, making the rip in the plastic even bigger. He’s mortified, but Tony assures him that as long as he isn’t hurt, it’s fine. It was kind of Akram to help; they shouldn’t have let him attempt it in such poor weather. Tony observes ruefully that the tear looks unsalvageable, making Akram feel even worse.Jolene reports to Joy that the police have said their CCTV footage could have been wiped remotely, without anyone needing to access the premises, which makes her feel a bit better. The thought of intruders going through her home makes her skin crawl. She can’t be as confident as Tracy that they won’t come back again. Joy reckons she needs to replace that uneasy feeling with something positive. Jolene rallies and declares she’s spent enough time worrying – they’ll make this the Burns Night Highland games the best the village has ever seen. Joy reports Fallon’s on board, and Jazzer returns as a willing volunteer having had a pep talk from Bert. Later Joy reckons they’ve created a monster, having listened to Jazzer’s gung ho ideas for authenticity. Kenton’s going to have a lot more on his plate than neeps and tatties.

When Jolene comments to Eddie that the Bull will be keeping things low-key for Burns Night this year, he’s adamant they go as big as they like on it. There’s been enough misery already. Frazzled Jazzer isn’t receptive to Jolene’s request for his help with making it an event. He’s too tired. He’s sorry but the answer’s no. Later Jolene acknowledges Jazzer has a lot on. For his part Jazzer sympathises with Jolene’s worry over Markie’s gang and what they might do.Will’s got George a lot of new stuff for his homecoming. Emma questions whether indulging George like this is really the right thing to do. It’s this sort of thing that landed them in this position in the first place. Just because he nearly died doesn’t mean everything’s forgiven. Will disagrees. They nearly lost their son, and now he wants to forget everything that’s happened.Eddie refuses to go with Emma and Ed to welcome George home. He reckons he doesn’t know George any more. He’s glad he’s alright, but he’s crossed a line and Eddie can’t forgive him. Will’s not happy with Eddie’s decision, but Emma admits she can see his point. They’ve got it badly wrong, lying and covering for George. They’re too soft on him, and he’s spoilt. Their guilt about the past has made them bury their heads. George takes up so much headspace, there’s no room for Keira and Poppy. If he’s really going to learn from his mistakes, they all need to take a step back.

Henry’s a reluctant assistant at Bridge Farm as Helen and Tony work on plans to rejuvenate the garden areas. Henry continues to campaign for giving George work. Whilst Helen agrees no-one deserves to be assaulted, she reiterates there’s too much bad feeling for them to consider rehiring George. Henry goes to see Keira. When his mum calls him later, she discovers he’s at the hospital visiting George. Helen’s not happy. She asks if Henry is mates with George. Henry supposes he is. He feels sorry for George – the family are going through a hard time. Tony acknowledges this is true. Helen assures Henry she won’t cause any drama over the visit. She admits to Tony that at fifteen, she trusts Henry to make the right decisions. Tony declares her a good parent – Helen reckons she had a good role model.Amber worries that Will’s spending too much time at the hospital. She also checks in on Ed, who confirms he’s fine – it’s just a lot. Later, Ed spots Will’s anxiety and guesses the cause – it’s not his fault he wasn’t there when Nic died. Will says he couldn’t bear it if the same happened with George. Ed and Amber try to reassure him. Will tells Ed that Nic and what they had was his lot in life; there’s no point trying for more. Ed thinks this is a waste. Will could try something different or start dating again. He asserts Will deserves to be happy. Will reckons the only thing that will make him happy is tomorrow, when their boy comes home.

Tony’s after some help at Bridge Farm and wonders whether Brian might be interested. Alice explains her dad’s angina has been a concern recently. Brian overhears, declaring he feels mollycoddled and patronised by his children. Tony tentatively suggests Brian must have a lot on with his house move. Brian’s defensive, responding testily that Miranda’s house sale has fallen through. Later he apologises to Alice for his attitude. Alice understands. It would be her mum’s birthday this week so it’s a difficult time. She wonders if now is the right time to be thinking about moving house. Brian assures her it’s exactly the right time for a new chapter. Over a pint, Neil updates Tony on George, who’s having a brain scan. Tony’s more concerned about Neil – he knows how it feels to discover someone possibly mortally injured. Neil admits it’s shaken him. He reports Jazzer is also very out of sorts. Tony offers good advice, and they resolve they should meet for a drink more often.Jolene puzzles over the wiping of the New Year’s Eve CCTV footage. Fallon wonders if it could have been deleted by accident. Joy thinks that’s unlikely. Neither can remember seeing anything untoward on the night. Joy broaches the topic of Burns Night, but Fallon reckons they should keep it small this year under the circumstances. When Jolene continues to fret about who could have got access to the Bull’s security system, Joy suggests they forget all about New Year’s Eve. The likes of Markie and his gang will get what’s coming to them.

As George struggles with concussion, worried Amber wants him to tell the police what he remembers about the attack. She’s convinced Markie’s mates were responsible. George isn’t sure, and he’s scared of what might happen to the family if he grasses. He insists he can’t remember much about that night. However he does recall something about Amber and Brad, and apologises for his paranoia over his two closest allies. He’d understand if Amber wants to call it a day. Amber insists that won’t happen; she loves George and wants to put the past behind them. Later having told the police George agrees he did the right thing, though he reckons they won’t find many fingerprints on the broken bottle that was used. He speculates on whether it could have been someone else who attacked him; the whole village hates him. Amber urges him to stop torturing himself. The attack was down to Markie and his mates. There’s no way it would have been anyone else.Jolene updates Akram on George’s progress. They agree the incident’s been shocking for everyone. Alice tells Jolene she’s given a statement to the police. She can’t help feeling it’s all her fault; she could have done more to help George. She feels they’re quite similar – both of them have a monster inside them. Jolene reckons on the contrary, Alice is very forgiving. The police call Jolene to ask for the Bull’s CCTV footage from the night in question. To her astonishment she finds it’s been wiped.

Eddie and Amber arrive outside the hospital, Amber blaming herself for what’s happened. Inside, Susan and Emma struggle to try and work out who would have attacked George. It could be members of Markie’s gang, but equally might be almost anyone in the village. Emma then tells Amber that George is alive, but has a fractured skull. Amber breaks down in Susan’s arms, full of remorse for how badly she’s treated Susan. She declares her love for George, terrified he may not pull through. Eddie reckons they’ve got to put the past behind them and pull together for George’s sake, re-emphasising this to Susan later, leading to a reconciliation of sorts. Emma talks to Ed on the phone about Keira, not sure why he didn’t get in touch earlier. Then Alice arrives at the hospital, explaining about her heart-to-heart with George outside The Bull. She’s convinced he then set off to find Emma, desperate to put things right with her. Emma wants to know if Alice saw anything suspicious, as she’s probably the last person to see George before the attack. Alice didn’t see anything, though. Emma thanks Alice for being kinder to George than he deserves, while Alice assures Emma she still likes to think of her as her sister. Once George has regained consciousness Emma and Amber go to see him, Amber full of remorse, Emma just wanting him home. George tells them it’s all his fault, but struggles to remember what happened when he was attacked. Apart from a noise behind him, then someone standing over him…

As the New Year begins Emma and Will desperately search for Keira, unable to contact Ed or Eddie, while drawing a blank with Keira’s friends. Will reassures Emma, who believes that somehow it’s all her fault. Lilian finds Fallon treating a cut to her hand, downplaying any effect George’s appearance earlier might have had on her. Meanwhile, Neil and Tracy meet up on the Green, joined by Jazzer, then Will and Emma, the strain beginning to tell on all of them. Jazzer and Neil head off to check a bridle path, while Emma blames herself again, before Tracy suggests calling George, in case he knows something. On the bridle path Neil hears the sound of a phone, before spotting a body. Fallon joins Emma, Will and Tracy, suggesting they ring the police, before Will tries George and increasingly frazzled Emma despairs her phone has died. Elsewhere, Neil calls 999, reporting that George hasn’t got a pulse, while Jazzer reels in shock. Neil then wraps George in his coat, desperately looking for signs of life, while an ambulance someone else has called approaches. Emma panics, thinking the ambulance is for Keira and chases after it, followed by Will, not hearing Tracy report that Keira’s been found. On the path Neil tells Emma it’s not Keira, while Will passes on the news that Keira’s safe. Neil then tells them George has been attacked, but won’t say how badly he's been hurt. He tries to hold Emma back, but she tears herself free to be with her son.

Emma and Ed are about to go The Bull for New Year’s Eve when they realise Keira’s not there. They find a note saying she can’t stay there any longer and wishing George was back in prison. Fearing the worst, Ed blames George for tearing the family apart. Lilian and Tracy have been distributing free bottles of wine they were given after winning the Best Local Pub award, before George bursts in through the door, drunkenly demanding to be served and then mocking Kenton’s fear of dogs. Alice tries to reason with George before Brian takes hold of him and George sends Brian stumbling backwards. Tracy takes George aside, threatening to get the likes of Harrison to throw him out. George then beats a retreat, sarcastically wishing them all a Happy New Year. Lilian is full of praise for Tracy, while Alice reflects knowingly on George’s drunken state, before they hear the news that Keira is missing. Alice goes outside and stops George from throwing a rock through the window, reminding him he promised to be a better person. He tells her the terrible things he’s said and done to his family and Alice responds in kind. But despite all that her family have forgiven her. His family will too, but he has to earn their forgiveness. George is stunned that Alice is being so helpful, agreeing to go and talk to his mum. But as George walks home, shouting defiantly that he’ll prove everyone wrong, he’s smashed over the head with a bottle and falls to the ground.

At the Rewilding, Alice is hoping for a photo as Rex points out the beavers handy work, before wondering how Alice really feels about Chris looking for a new partner. She admits it’s difficult, the idea of Chris moving on, then realises that’s what she needs to do and work out what she really wants, which might include having another child. Before going to work Jazzer tells Brad to take care of Amber. Amber didn’t sleep well, due to George texting constantly, and asks Brad what she should do. He offers to be with her as a friend, but Amber wants him to be more than that. They’re interrupted by George hammering at the door, then trying to force his way past Brad, before Amber calls to let him in. George then apologises to Amber for flipping out, claiming that’s not who he really is. The counselling will help sort him out. Amber calls him out on the disgusting things he said to his family. George reckons it was all true, but doesn’t care about them anymore. He wants a fresh start with Amber, somewhere else. Amber says she’s not going with him, before Brad tells George to leave her alone. George accuses Brad of wanting Amber for himself, mocking him cruelly until Brad launches himself at George. Whereupon Jazzer intervenes, threatening to do some serious damage to George, who slinks off, with Amber saying she’d rather be with Brad and doesn’t know why she ever wanted to marry him.

Emma confers with Will over what Brad said about George and Ed, with Will admitting he’s thought sometimes that George might hit him too. Emma reckons they have to do something to stop it getting worse, but what? Then Eddie asks them what’s going on. George tells Amber he’s been referred for counselling over his temper. He later interrupts Amber making a video, pushing her to have sex, before Will calls him downstairs, where Emma and Eddie are waiting too. They insist George tell the truth about what’s been going on, which he does very reluctantly. Emma accuses George of emotionally blackmailing Ed, like he did with Emma so she wouldn’t tell people he was driving Alice’s car. George tells them about the counselling, but shouts at Eddie when he berates George for deliberately hurting his own family. Amber then snaps at George for not telling her the truth. George tries to justify his actions, claiming they’ve all felt like killing Ed, before doubling down with vicious comments about Emma and Nic, only stopping when Amber slaps him in the face and walks out. Will tells George to pack his bags, with Emma and Eddie adding that he’s not welcome to stay with them either, before George storms off. Amber tells Brad she’s finally seen the light about George, after what he said to Will and Emma. She clings to Brad for solace, asking if she can stay the night, while rejecting a call from George. She needs somewhere she can think.

George is helping Ed with some tree surgery at Grange Farm, but accidentally hits Ed in the face with a branch. Later, when Brad comes over to Little Grange, Emma notices blood on a door handle. When Emma and Brad see the cut to Ed’s eyebrow they wince at how deep it is. George explains what happened, before Brad remarks on the same thing happening the other day. George insists last time was different and he never meant to hit Ed. George and Ed cover that both incidents were accidents, but Brad isn’t convinced. Emma patches Ed up, before he heads back with George to finish the job. Brad confronts Emma with his suspicions about all the accidents happening to Ed – that’s three in a month. Is Ed getting sloppy - or is he letting George hit him? Brad thinks Ed might be protecting George by taking the blame off him, so he won’t get sent back to prison. Emma can’t believe Ed wouldn’t have told her if that was the case, but Brad’s worried George might do Ed some serious harm if it happens again. Chris takes Alice and Martha to the last day of Deck The Hall, then while Martha’s crafting a reindeer he teases Alice about appearing as a fairy in the Tractor Run. Alice sympathises over things not working out with Carly, before suggesting her and Chris are doomed to being single. Chris disagrees, showing Alice a dating app he’s signed up to. He thinks Alice should do the same, but she isn’t keen.