08/06/2025

Summary

The Archers Omnibus – Episode Summary (08/06/2025)

Released: June 7, 2025

Introduction

The Archers Omnibus continues to delve into the intricate lives of Ambridge's residents, weaving together personal struggles, community responsibilities, and heartfelt interactions. This episode masterfully balances individual storylines with broader community events, providing listeners with a rich and engaging portrayal of village life.

---

1. Susan's Struggle with Mother's Guilt

Susan grapples with deep-seated anxieties regarding her daughter Martha's development. She suspects that her alcohol consumption during pregnancy may have resulted in fetal alcohol syndrome.

• Susan: "It's so obvious. Me drinking when pregnant. It's impacted her development." [02:57]

Her partner, Chris, initially downplays the severity of the situation but eventually acknowledges Susan's concerns.

• Chris: "I think we need to talk. And if Martha's happy playing, then we might be able to." [02:22]

Despite Susan's pleas for professional medical advice, Chris encourages her to seek a specialist's opinion.

• Chris: "Yeah. Yes, that sounds like a good idea." [07:10]

The tension peaks as Susan confronts Chris about his denial and fears of relapse into drinking.

• Susan: "Chris, what are you in denial or something?" [02:50]
• Chris: "In denial about what? I don't know what you're talking about." [02:53]

Ultimately, they agree to seek medical help, highlighting the strains on their relationship and the weight of Susan's guilt.

---

2. Joy's Community Shop Conundrums

Joy manages the community-run village shop, facing challenges in balancing customer demands with the shop's ethos. A significant portion of the episode revolves around whether to allow dogs inside the shop.

• Joy: "If people knew they could bring their dogs into the actual shop, then they wouldn't have to worry, would they?" [03:32]

Her colleague, Alice, enthusiastically supports the idea, fostering a lively debate.

• Alice: "I think it's a brilliant idea, Joy." [03:25]

Joy counters the suggestion, citing concerns over cleanliness and shop environment.

• Joy: "I really don't want pets in here. Sorry." [03:59]

The discussion reveals Joy's dedication to maintaining the shop's standards while navigating community expectations.

Additionally, Joy explores enhancing the shop's offerings based on customer surveys, such as introducing more varieties of peanut butter and considering a small hardware section.

• Joy: "This survey from Azra is brilliant. Oh, yeah, she made a few DIY type suggestions, didn't she?" [03:39]

---

3. Preparing for Open Farm Sunday

Ben and David oversee the preparations for Open Farm Sunday, a key community event. Their discussions reflect concerns over safety, customer engagement, and logistical planning.

• Ben: "Is that a bit late?" [12:23]
• David: "Don't forget Rosie and Leonard doing the animal sticker table." [12:31]

Ben expresses worries about potential security issues, prompting David to reassure him.

• David: "Honestly, no one's going to turn up with bad intentions." [19:38]

The episode highlights the collaborative efforts and underlying tensions as they strive to ensure a successful event.

---

4. Harrison's 40th Birthday Surprise Gone Awry

A planned surprise birthday party for Harrison turns problematic when he receives an urgent call for a case, preventing him from attending.

• Fallon: "Harrison's not sure what time he can get back." [02:14]
• Susan: "It's going to be really nice. Honestly, it doesn't matter if there's not many people, does it?" [22:45]

The absence of Harrison casts a shadow over the festivities, with Fallon and Susan navigating their disappointment while maintaining composure for Martha's sake.

---

5. Peggy's Funeral Preparations and Eulogy

The village prepares for Peggy's funeral, with Ben delivering a heartfelt eulogy that encapsulates their long friendship.

• Ben: "I first met my dear friend Peggy in the year 1957... She was incredibly tough and incredibly kind..." [31:37]

Ben's reading of the eulogy is met with praise, emphasizing Peggy's influence and the community's loss.

• Presenter: "That's so kind." [33:42]

The episode captures the community's united front in honoring Peggy's legacy, blending personal memories with collective mourning.

---

6. Arthur and the Dementia Charity Encounter

A visitor named Arthur, who volunteers for a dementia support network, interacts with the Carter family, revealing layers of grief and unresolved tensions.

• Arthur (Presenter): "I am a regular visitor, which is how I came to know Mrs. Woolley..." [42:16]
• Arthur: "I myself have dementia, you see." [45:57]

Ben and David engage with Arthur, discussing Peggy's generous donation and its impact on the charity. This encounter underscores themes of memory, legacy, and the intertwined lives of Ambridge's residents.

• Ben: "It's going to be quite a funeral." [34:06]
• Arthur: "Peggy made such a generous donation to the charity where I volunteer." [44:52]

---

7. Interpersonal Dynamics and Hidden Struggles

The episode delves into the complex relationships and hidden struggles of Ambridge's residents. Characters like Fallon reveal personal dissatisfaction despite outward appearances of independence.

• Fallon: "I just think I've got used to it. Living on my own, I mean." [62:34]
• Susan: "She's the absolute center of my universe." [70:34]

Susan's revelations about Martha's condition and the family's collective efforts to support each other highlight the emotional depth and resilience within the community.

---

8. Community Activities and Technological Advances

Joy introduces new technological advancements to manage farm activities, such as GPS tracking for livestock, sparking debates about modern vs. traditional farming methods.

• Joy: "We've replaced the fences with the GPS system." [64:30]
• Presenter: "That sort of thing is wonderful until suddenly it isn't." [67:00]

These discussions reflect the balancing act between embracing innovation and preserving the village's pastoral heritage.

---

9. Introduction of "What's Up Docs" Podcast Segment

Towards the episode's end, an in-show podcast segment titled What's Up Docs is introduced, featuring Dr. Chris and Dr. Zand discussing health and well-being topics.

• Presenter: "We're going to be diving into the messy, complicated world of health and well being." [72:50]
• Alice: "Listen, and subscribe to WhatsApp docs on BBC Sounds." [73:22]

This crossover highlights the show's meta-narrative elements, blending The Archers with contemporary media trends.

---

Conclusion

This episode of The Archers Omnibus intricately weaves personal dilemmas with community engagements, portraying a village that is both tightly-knit and individually complex. Through emotional dialogues, impactful events, and the introduction of new community initiatives, the episode captures the essence of Ambridge's enduring spirit and the interconnected lives of its residents.

Notable Quotes:

• Susan: "I want to talk to a doctor." [07:02]
• Ben: "I wish I'd been different, Ruth, during that awful protest." [17:21]
• Arthur (Presenter): "I told you this already." [36:37]
• Joy: "It's all gonna work out just fine." [59:04]

---

For listeners who haven't tuned in, this episode offers a poignant exploration of guilt, community responsibility, grief, and the quest for personal peace within the vibrant tapestry of Ambridge.

Transcript

[Presenter]

This BBC podcast is supported by ads outside the uk. Trip Planner by Expedia. You were made to have strong opinions about sand. We were made to help you and your friends find a place on the.

[Ben]

Beach with a pool and a marina and a waterfall and a soaking tub.

[Presenter]

Expedia Made to Travel.

[Joy]

BBC Sounds Music Radio podcasts.

[Presenter]

You're listening to the Archers Omnibus from BBC Radio 4.

[Joy]

Morning, Joy. How's it all going? Yeah, fine, Susan. Been fairly busy, actually. Wondered if you'd had any more surveys dropped back after church. I did encourage the congregation during the service. No, no, no. As we were all filtering out at the end, though, I could have asked Alan, couldn't I, to include it in his general announcements. I didn't think of that. Maybe you can do it next week. But haven't we got enough feedback by now, really? Oh, you can never have too much feedback, Joyce. Well, you were quite resistant to start with. Can I have a look at the new ones?

[Fallon]

Sure.

[Joy]

Here you go.

[Presenter]

Morning.

[Joy]

Oh, hi, Ben.

[Alice]

Have you got any liquorice?

[Joy]

Of course we do. Have you filled out a survey yet?

[Alice]

No.

[Joy]

Oh, well, here you go. And here's a pen.

[Alice]

What, you want me to do it right now?

[Joy]

No, no, you can take it away with you. But you could do it now. It's only three pages.

[Alice]

Can't I just tell you what I'd like the shop to stock?

[Joy]

Course, I'd prefer to have something on paper. Really? Well, why don't I jot it down for you while you're talking?

[Alice]

Okay.

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[Alice]

Thanks, Joy. I can't think now, I guess. More dog treats.

[Chris]

Thanks for bringing Martha over.

[Susan]

Oh, no problem.

[Chris]

Feels quite luxurious. Cricket free Sunday with my daughter.

[Susan]

What are you and Martha gonna do with your day?

[Chris]

Nothing that special, I guess. Playground lunch, feed the llama. You know the drill.

[Susan]

Oh, that sounds nice.

[Chris]

Do you want to come with us? Just to the playground?

[Susan]

Yeah. I could do well.

[Chris]

Only if you want to. Don't feel like you have to or anything.

[Susan]

No, I would like to, actually. I mean, I. I really think we need to talk. And if Martha's happy playing, then we might be able to.

[Chris]

What do we need to talk about?

[Susan]

Well, Martha, obviously. What the nursery said.

[Chris]

Oh, yeah. Okay.

[Susan]

Aren't you worried?

[Chris]

I mean, I didn't think it was that bad what they were saying, you know?

[Susan]

Chris, what are you in denial or something?

[Chris]

In denial about what? I don't know what you're talking about.

[Susan]

It's so obvious. Me drinking when pregnant. It's impacted her development.

[Chris]

Alice, that is like a massive leap.

[Susan]

But it isn't. It isn't. Chris, I've been dreading this for years and it's now here. I think Martha has fetal alcohol syndrome.

[Joy]

Okay, Ben, I think I've got all your suggestions, including more varieties of peanut butter.

[Alice]

Yeah, I mean, I don't know if that was a bit too niche.

[Joy]

No, it's all good. It's all good. This survey from Azra is brilliant. Oh, yeah, she made a few DIY type suggestions, didn't she?

[Alice]

What sort of thing?

[Joy]

Light bulbs, drill bits, screws, washers, super glue.

[Alice]

Super glue might be handy, but, I.

[Joy]

Mean, we're not a hardware store. No, no, but we could have a little hardware section, couldn't we? I've just had a thought. What about allowing dogs inside the shop?

[Alice]

Oh, that'd be amazing.

[Joy]

I really don't want pets in here. Sorry. But I've noticed some folk feel anxious about tying the dogs up outside. That seems a bit precious to me. People have tied their dogs outside ever since this was his shot. Well, nowadays though, Susan, with all the dog theft.

[Alice]

That's true.

[Joy]

Sorry, Ben, I don't mean you need to worry more.

[Alice]

No, no, no, no. I mean, I'm not so worried about Bess getting stolen. Beautiful though. She is. I do worry about her running off.

[Joy]

Though, even with the toy up post.

[Alice]

Yeah, yeah, I know. Maybe that's stupid, but I just do.

[Joy]

If people knew they could bring their dogs into the actual shop, then they wouldn't have to worry, would they? And that in turn would create more custom.

[Alice]

I think it's a brilliant idea, Joy.

[Joy]

Why, thank you. No, no, no, no. Sorry, I'll have to overrule you both there.

[David]

Why?

[Joy]

What I'm trying to do here is compete with the shop at the EV charging station.

[Alice]

Underwoods Local.

[Susan]

Yeah.

[Joy]

Have you been inside, Ben?

[Alice]

Yeah.

[Joy]

So you know how smart it is. Yeah.

[Alice]

Pretty shiny.

[Joy]

So you can see that we need to up our game. But that's not who we are, is it, Susan?

[Alice]

Exactly.

[Presenter]

We're a community run village shop.

[Joy]

It doesn't mean we can't aspire to higher things though, George.

[Alice]

Oh, I've just remembered. Underwoods Local do these amazing ice lollies.

[Joy]

Can you remember the brand? But we already do amazing ice lollies. What about ice lollies for dogs? That's the thing now, isn't it?

[Ben]

Yeah, yeah.

[Alice]

No, they'd be great, Joy. Bess loves those.

[Joy]

The point I was trying am still is that I don't want dogs in the shop, shedding hair and all of that. I want a nice, clean Environment. And I don't know why you're suddenly obsessed with dogs anyway. Joy thought you were a cat person. I wouldn't say I was suddenly obsessed with dogs. I'm just chatting an idea through.

[Alice]

Yeah, I'm gonna leave you two to it. I've let you know my thoughts anyway.

[Joy]

Oh, yeah. Thank you, Ben. Very useful to have your input.

[Alice]

Okay, well, see you both later.

[Joy]

Yeah, see you, Ben.

[Presenter]

Bye, Ben.

[Joy]

Joy, honestly. Well, sorry, Susan, but I do think.

[David]

It'S a good idea.

[Joy]

And Ben loves that dog so much, and I've seen him. You know, full well I've seen him in a right panic about losing her. I'm sorry to disappoint, but we can't do everything. Now, I do think I'm gonna start ordering some of Azra's suggestions. Shouldn't we put her to the committee first? Oh, no. No chance. The committee take so long to reach a decision, and this is a time critical situation. Joy. Is it? If we lose all our customers to Underwoods Local, how on earth are we going to get them back again?

[Chris]

I mean, look at her now, running around. How can you think there's anything wrong with her?

[Susan]

I didn't say it like that. You know I didn't.

[Chris]

I'm not having a go at you.

[Susan]

Yeah, well, it feels like you are.

[Chris]

No, I'm really not. I'm trying to make you see what I see.

[Susan]

Maybe I can't see what you see.

[Chris]

I don't know how to reassure you.

[Susan]

I want to talk to a doctor.

[Chris]

Yeah. Yes, that sounds like a good idea.

[Susan]

We should try and get an appointment first thing tomorrow.

[Chris]

Tomorrow?

[Susan]

Chris, I can't sleep, I can't eat. I can't stop thinking about what I've done to her.

[Chris]

You haven't done anything.

[Susan]

But we both know that's not true.

[Chris]

Look, I know. I know what you did. But I really think she's okay. She's 4, and we never had any cause for concern before. You're just torturing yourself. And I know what happens when you torture yourself.

[Susan]

You're worried I'll start drinking again.

[Chris]

No.

[Susan]

Yes.

[Chris]

Alice.

[Susan]

So when you've been saying. Just now, when you were going, oh, she's fine, she's fine. Was that because you really think she's fine, or because you're afraid of what I might do?

[Chris]

Okay, try and hear me. Okay. I genuinely think that the nursery's concerns are not related to your drinking.

[Susan]

But you don't know that.

[Chris]

I know it as much as I.

[Susan]

Can, which is not at all.

[Joy]

Hello, Ben.

[Alice]

Joy. You just finished at the shop?

[Joy]

Yeah, just the morning shift today.

[Alice]

I've been returning a drill that I'd borrowed off Tom, but I was actually gonna come and knock on your door.

[Joy]

Oh, well, yeah.

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[Alice]

I wanted to say thanks for, you know, thinking of me. Remembering the best stuff.

[Joy]

Oh, Ben, you don't need to thank me.

[Alice]

Well, you know.

[Joy]

Yeah, I know.

[Alice]

You were fantastic that day. I feel like you saved my life.

[Joy]

I didn't save your life.

[Alice]

You were the voice of sanity, that's what you were.

[Joy]

That's lovely to hear.

[Alice]

I'm not saying it to be lovely.

[Joy]

Well, thank you.

[Alice]

How are you anyway?

[Joy]

Me?

[Presenter]

I'm fine.

[Joy]

I'm fine.

[Alice]

Really. Well, I mean, you've been through a lot lately.

[Joy]

Oh, if you mean everything with Rochelle. I wasn't caught up in the protest.

[David]

Like your dad and Freddie and everyone I know.

[Joy]

I just feel fortunate I haven't been completely cast out of the village, if I'm honest.

[Alice]

Cast out the village?

[Presenter]

Well, yeah.

[Joy]

I mean, people could have been there, could have been quite hostile.

[Presenter]

Real.

[Joy]

Considering Rochelle is my daughter.

[Alice]

I think people can separate you from your daughter, Joy.

[Joy]

I do still feel quite nervous that someone might come into the shop and just have a massive go at me out of nowhere.

[Presenter]

And Lily and me, we did have.

[Joy]

Quite a difficult conversation about Rochelle and Freddie.

[Chris]

Right.

[Joy]

And the fact is, I do feel some responsibility for Rochelle's actions.

[Alice]

I don't think you should.

[Joy]

I can't help it.

[Alice]

She's a grown up.

[Joy]

But when she was a teenager, I.

[Presenter]

Made a lot of mistakes with her.

[Alice]

Everyone makes mistakes with teenagers.

[Presenter]

Mine were worse than most.

[Alice]

Maybe you have to try and forgive yourself.

[David]

It's not easy.

[Joy]

I just wish I could have, you know, been the voice of sanity for Rochelle.

[Alice]

Maybe you still can.

[Presenter]

I doubt it.

[David]

Anyway, it feels a bit late for that.

[Presenter]

It's never too late with everything that.

[David]

Happened at the abattoir.

[Alice]

Yeah, I know. But Rochelle could still turn things around, couldn't she?

[Joy]

She could, but I don't know that she will.

[Alice]

None of us know what's in the future.

[Joy]

No, thank goodness.

[Alice]

Like three years ago, would you have thought that I'd be where I am now? Nearly qualified as a nurse? Head screwed on. Well, sort of screwed on. I think you played a massive role in me being where I am now. Honestly, our conversation on the bench, on the green, that was a turning point for me.

[David]

Thank you, Ben.

[Presenter]

That's so kind.

[Alice]

Like I said a minute ago, I'm not saying it to be kind or lovely or any of that. I'm Telling you the truth.

[Joy]

Have you thought about what kind of nurse you'll be? I mean, what area of nursing?

[Alice]

There's a few things I'm interested in. Community care, caring for the elderly. Or maybe. Maybe mental health support.

[Joy]

I think you'd be brilliant at any one of those.

[Alice]

I don't know about brilliant, but I think I'd be okay.

[Chris]

Hey.

[Presenter]

What?

[Chris]

Come on.

[Susan]

Sorry. I can't help it. My brain just keeps on going back to worrying about Martha.

[Chris]

Listen, do you want to stay for lunch?

[Susan]

What you making?

[Chris]

Pesto pasta and veggies on the side.

[Susan]

You'd think she'd be sick of pesto pasta, wouldn't you?

[Chris]

I know I am.

[Susan]

Yeah, me too.

[Chris]

I can make her something different.

[Susan]

No, no, it's okay. I think I'll just get going.

[Presenter]

Sure.

[Susan]

I'm not really hungry anyway.

[Chris]

You gotta eat, Alice.

[Susan]

I just need to speak to a doctor, Chris, and I can't really think straight till I do.

[Chris]

Okay. Well, why don't I make the call? If I can get an appointment for tomorrow, then let's go together.

[Presenter]

Really?

[Chris]

Yeah, definitely.

[Susan]

Thank you.

[Chris]

No problem.

[Susan]

I wouldn't blame you, you know, if you hated me.

[Chris]

Hated you?

[Susan]

Yeah.

[Chris]

Why would I hate you?

[Susan]

For what I've done. For what I've done to our beautiful daughter.

[Ben]

Okay, so we got your talk about carving at 11, huh? And then my talk about Herefords at 12.

[David]

Yep.

[Ben]

Teased by Fallon all day long in the events barn.

[David]

Ben doing a display with Bess and the sheep at two out on Badges Bank.

[Ben]

Is that a bit late?

[David]

I don't think so. Straight after lunch.

[Ben]

Pip on milking in the parlour with small groups.

[David]

Don't forget Rosie and Leonard doing the animal sticker table. She's so excited about how many school friends are coming. She's keeping a list of who said they're gonna make it.

[Ben]

Oh, that reminds me, actually, I was thinking I'd like to hire some walkie talkies for Rex and Ed and Will.

[David]

Walkie talkies?

[Presenter]

Really?

[Ben]

Well, I just think why not?

[David]

I mean, won't they have the phones with them?

[Ben]

Just an extra precaution.

[David]

Well, if it makes you feel better.

[Ben]

Yeah, thanks. I think I will feel happier. Particularly with all these kids around. I'd hate it if anything went wrong.

[David]

Nothing's going to go wrong, David.

[Ben]

Well, hopefully.

[David]

Are you okay?

[Ben]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, fine.

[David]

You always enjoy Open Farm Sunday. Showing off the farm.

[Ben]

I am looking forward to it.

[David]

Usually by now you're running around barking orders at everyone like a poppy.

[Ben]

A puffy. I don't think I've ever been like a puppy.

[David]

You know what I mean? Usually you're kind of buzzing.

[Ben]

I think I'm just getting old.

[David]

You're definitely getting old. That's not it.

[Ben]

You're supposed to say, I'm not getting old.

[David]

Well, a second ago I called you a puppy and you didn't like that either.

[Ben]

There's no pleasing me.

[David]

Exactly.

[Susan]

I hate giving Martha my phone.

[Chris]

She's only watching a cartoon.

[Susan]

I know, I know.

[Chris]

She's got headphones on, so it's not like she's bothering anyone else.

[Susan]

I meant to bring her a book or a game or something wholesome. I forgot.

[Chris]

I'm only going to be waiting for five minutes.

[Susan]

It just makes me feel like a lousy parent.

[Chris]

Well, I forgot to, so I'm a lousy parent too.

[Susan]

You're allowed to be lousy. I didn't do what I've done.

[Presenter]

Alice.

[Chris]

Honestly.

[Susan]

What?

[Chris]

You got to stop this.

[Fallon]

Alice. Chris.

[Presenter]

Oh.

[Susan]

Oh, Fallon.

[Chris]

Hi, Fallon.

[Fallon]

How are you both?

[Chris]

Good, thanks.

[Susan]

Yeah, just Martha's having a checkup.

[Presenter]

Oh, right.

[Fallon]

Okay. Her and me both.

[Chris]

Yeah, nothing to worry about. She's not poorly or anything.

[Fallon]

Oh, well, that's good because. Well, obviously I don't want Martha to be poorly, but also, this is really selfish, but I do kind of need you to be there tomorrow night. I was thinking quite an early start, like 6:45. Just because it's a Tuesday and you know, people probably don't want to be partying late. Harrison's not sure what time he can get back. Oh, and remember, it's a surprise, so if you speak to him, don't say anything, will you?

[Presenter]

No, we won't.

[Chris]

Of course not.

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[Fallon]

Okay, great. Yeah. Oh, and if you just bring those things that you said you'd bring.

[Susan]

Yeah, sorry, remind me what I said. Was it a salad?

[Fallon]

Yeah, some of your amazing salads. Especially the one with the caramelized almonds.

[Susan]

Yeah. And the kale and the pomegranate seeds.

[Presenter]

That's the one.

[Fallon]

So I said. Okay.

[Presenter]

Yeah, yeah, brilliant.

[Fallon]

Yeah. And Chris, you're doing a playlist?

[Chris]

Yes, playlist. Got it all under control.

[Fallon]

Okay, lovely. Sorry, just a bit nervous about the whole thing. Oh, I just don't want Harrison's 40th birthday to be a complete non event, you know?

[Chris]

Oh, I'm sure it'll be great.

[Susan]

It'll be lovely.

[Chris]

And don't worry, we will definitely be there.

[Joy]

Okay, brilliant.

[Presenter]

Thank you.

[Joy]

Oh.

[Fallon]

Oh, that's me. See you tomorrow then.

[Susan]

You see, Fallon.

[Chris]

See ya.

[Susan]

Had you forgotten?

[Chris]

Yep, totally had you.

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[Chris]

We need a babysitter. I'll ask me mum, okay?

[Susan]

If she can't do it, I'll ask my dad.

[Chris]

Good job. We run into Fallon, eh?

[Susan]

Yes. Can you imagine if we just not turned up?

[Chris]

I need to get thinking about a playlist.

[Susan]

I need to get hold of a pomegranate.

[David]

Martha Carter.

[Susan]

Oh.

[David]

Apparently bridge farmer, running a goat gymkhana. Don't know exactly what that entails, but it sounds hilarious, don't you think, David?

[Ben]

Yeah.

[David]

You listening to me at all?

[Ben]

Yes, absolutely.

[David]

What did I say?

[Ben]

You don't really want Josh doing the, you know, the sustainable farming talk, but no, honestly, be fine.

[David]

I was talking about the gaunt gymkhana.

[Ben]

The what?

[David]

Okay, what is going on with you?

[Ben]

Nothing. Nothing.

[David]

You're a terrible liar.

[Ben]

Okay, please don't think I'm going mad. I keep having flashbacks in the middle of the night to the meeting room in the abattoir. David and the flashbacks, they sort of merged with this. And I'm suddenly inventing scenarios of things.

[Presenter]

Happening here on Open Farm Sunday.

[David]

Yeah, and that's why we got Rex and the Grundys in.

[Ben]

Yeah, but Rex and Ed and Will aren't professional security, are they? They're farmers, for goodness sake, just like me. Well, maybe they're braver than me. Wouldn't be difficult.

[David]

What's that supposed to mean?

[Ben]

I wish I'd been different, Ruth, during that awful protest. It was violent and horrible. I wish I'd done something more proactive.

[David]

David, everyone says you were fantastic.

[Ben]

I wasn't. I wasn't fantastic.

[David]

You kept everyone calm in a threatening situation.

[Ben]

I heard this thing on the radio the other day about how in an emergency, it's the people who take action who are more likely to survive. So if there's an avalanche or if a plane is hijacked, action is better than being passive.

[David]

Surely you take that on a case by case basis. I mean, you weren't in an avalanche, David. And you weren't on a plane. Thank you both. It's really useful that Ben could take Martha for a sec. It just means I can talk more freely.

[Susan]

Is it bad, Alice?

[David]

It's not bad at all.

[Chris]

You mean Martha's okay?

[Susan]

You're so desperate for her to be okay, Chris, but you've got to face reality.

[David]

Let me tell you what I think.

[Susan]

Sorry, Azra.

[David]

It's fine. Don't apologise. I can see you're very worried, Alice. So, first of all, I want to say that I don't think there's anything obviously delayed about Martha's Development.

[Presenter]

Really?

[Chris]

I told you.

[David]

I said maybe she's a little young for her age, but development is on a spectrum. And she was six weeks premature, which could have an impact. I'm sure she is having trouble concentrating. I'm not saying the nursery's wrong.

[Chris]

Well, the nursery weren't even that worried.

[Susan]

Well, they were worried enough to call us in.

[Chris]

Only because you kept asking them.

[David]

The point is that lots of children do have trouble focusing at Martha's age.

[Chris]

I have trouble focusing now.

[Susan]

Chris, please.

[Chris]

What?

[David]

Listen, because you're so concerned, Alice, but only because I can see how concerned you are. I think the best thing I can do is refer Martha to a specialist pediatrician. There you go. Drink it while it's hot.

[Ben]

Oh, thanks. Rosie's got all her school friends coming, you know. Ruth, what if something happens to one of those kids? What if they get hurt because someone turns up with bad intentions?

[David]

Honestly, no one's going to turn up with bad intentions. We're an environmentally responsible grass based dairy farm.

[Ben]

But whoever it is that turns up might not know that. Might not care.

[David]

If you think about it, that's why we have Open Farm Sunday in the first place. To educate people, to make them aware of good practice.

[Ben]

I know, I know.

[David]

So to cancel it would be kind of like a known goal.

[Ben]

I don't want to cancel the rest. Really? Don't. I just can't stop thinking these thoughts, Ruth.

[David]

I don't want you torturing yourself. You went through a real trauma, all of you. Yeah, and you helped. I know you did. Maybe we should just call it off. Maybe it's not worth it this year.

[Ben]

But it's one of the most blood life affirming experiences we get. And it's also an amazing ad for the business.

[David]

Well, I know, but I'd rather cancel than have you in this state.

[Ben]

That just seems so wrong.

[David]

I love you, David. And you owe me. Priority not Open Farm Sunday.

[Chris]

Everything okay?

[Susan]

Yeah, fine. She was really happy to go in anyway. I suppose we better get to work.

[Chris]

Yep.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Susan]

Do you feel like I've wasted your time this morning?

[Chris]

What? No, of course not.

[Susan]

I mean, it was pretty inconclusive, wasn't it?

[Chris]

Yes and no. I think it's good that we've got the referral now because it'll probably take a while to happen.

[Susan]

Yeah, I'm just gonna feel sick until it does.

[Chris]

Well, you've got to find a way through that, Alice. It could be months.

[Susan]

I know. When Asra said that, my heart just sank. I didn't think it could sink Much further.

[Chris]

I'm sorry if I wasn't much help today.

[Susan]

What are you talking about? It was really great you were there. I was so stressed, I could hardly hear what Azra was actually saying.

[Chris]

I mean, she was basically telling us there wasn't anything seriously wrong.

[Susan]

Well, no, she wasn't. She was saying that even if something was wrong and my drinking had affected Martha, that quite probably no one would be able to to diagnose her for at least another couple of years.

[Chris]

That's true, but only up to a point. Azra was actually very reassuring. And if you can't, you know, even hear what she's telling you, and she's a doctor, then what is the point in me even trying?

[Presenter]

I'm sorry.

[Susan]

I'm. I'm sorry, Chris. I know I'm being frustrating. Hi, Fallon. You okay?

[Fallon]

Yeah, sorry. Sorry to bother you.

[Susan]

No, that's okay.

[Fallon]

I've had more people saying that they can't make it to the party.

[Susan]

Oh, no.

[Fallon]

Yeah. Do you remember that game that we played once at yours with ping pong balls and cups?

[Susan]

Yep. No, I know the one you mean.

[Fallon]

Have you still got it?

[Susan]

Yeah, I think so.

[Presenter]

Oh.

[Fallon]

Could you bring it with you? To the party?

[Susan]

Yeah, sure.

[Fallon]

I'm just really worried that it's going to be a non event. Harrison's only got two days off, Wednesday and Thursday. But I didn't think Wednesday was much better than a Tuesday. And at least tomorrow is his actual birthday.

[Susan]

Yeah, exactly.

[Fallon]

And he's got to drive back on the Thursday afternoon, so really had to be tomorrow.

[Susan]

It's going to be really nice. Honestly, it doesn't matter if there's not many people, does it?

[Fallon]

Yeah, but. You know that weird thing where there's too many people to fit around a table for dinner, but not enough people to feel like a gathering?

[Susan]

You're overthinking it.

[Fallon]

Maybe, worst case scenario, we can all just get really drunk. I can't wait. Sorry, I. I mean, I know you won't get drunk. I mean. Sorry.

[Susan]

Fallon, stop.

[David]

It's fine.

[Fallon]

I'm just so stressed out. Forgive me.

[Susan]

No, there's nothing to forgive. I'll dig out the ping pong game tonight. And tomorrow we'll have a lovely time.

[Joy]

Okay.

[Fallon]

Thank you. You're a star.

[Joy]

I wish.

[Fallon]

There you are. Okay. Better go.

[Susan]

Yeah. See you tomorrow.

[Joy]

See you.

[Fallon]

Alice?

[Chris]

Alice?

[Susan]

Yeah?

[Chris]

You okay?

[Susan]

Not really.

[Chris]

What can I do?

[Susan]

I just wanted to know, Chris. This morning I just. I wanted Azra to say you didn't hurt Martha. It's all right. Everything's all Right.

[Ben]

Okay. I think we're getting there.

[Presenter]

Getting where?

[Ben]

Ready for open farm Sunday?

[David]

Oh, we definitely are. We got loads done today.

[Ben]

Well done, you.

[David]

Well done, you. You seem like a different man.

[Ben]

Do I?

[Presenter]

Yeah, you do.

[Ben]

Well, I had this really good chat with my wife yesterday.

[Presenter]

Did you?

[Ben]

She made me see the error of my ways.

[David]

Well, that's what what wives are for. I mean, you weren't actually in error, David.

[Ben]

No, I was in terror.

[David]

Understandably.

[Ben]

But I'm over all that now.

[David]

You don't have to be.

[Ben]

Well, I am. And I don't want to talk about it anymore. I just want to draw a line under the whole thing and leave it there.

[David]

Ok.

[Joy]

Sorry.

[Ben]

No, no, no. I mean, you know, I'm. I'm honestly okay, Ruth.

[David]

I believe you.

[Ben]

But thank you. Thank you for helping me.

[David]

Well, that really is what wives are for. Right, the tea is nearly done.

[Ben]

Where is everyone?

[David]

I don't know. Your mum just went to shout for Leonard and now she's disappeared.

[Ben]

What about Ben?

[David]

I've got no idea. Do you think you could round them all up for me?

[Ben]

Like the cows?

[David]

Rounding up cows is easier. Oh, and lady, your mum wants you to read her eulogy for Peggy. She's keen to know what you think.

[Ben]

Have you read it?

[Presenter]

No.

[Ben]

Okay, well, don't mind having a look.

[David]

I don't. Wonder what happened to Peggy's money.

[Ben]

I think she just spent it.

[Presenter]

Really?

[Ben]

Yeah. I think she just didn't have as much as everyone imagined.

[David]

Maybe. Maybe it's as simple as that.

[Ben]

But it was her money to spend.

[David]

Absolutely.

[Ben]

We'd be very rich if we sold up now.

[David]

You wouldn't.

[Ben]

No.

[Presenter]

Would you? No.

[Ben]

I love this life. It's in my DNA.

[David]

I know it is. You're like a stick of rock.

[Ben]

Stick of rock?

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[David]

With farming running through you.

[Chris]

Alice.

[Susan]

Oh, hey, Chris.

[Chris]

You look nice.

[Susan]

Oh, thank you. So do you.

[Presenter]

Did you.

[Chris]

Did you manage to make the salads?

[Susan]

Oh, yeah, I did. Did you manage to make the playlist?

[Presenter]

Yep.

[Ben]

Yep.

[Susan]

Any good?

[Chris]

I like to think so.

[Presenter]

Something for everyone.

[Chris]

A decent selection of absolute bangers.

[Susan]

So, was Martha all right about going to your mum's?

[Chris]

Yeah, very much so. Looking forward to a sleepover.

[Susan]

Oh, good.

[Chris]

She's so happy. She was. She was still wearing yesterday's T shirt that was covered in stickers.

[Susan]

The T shirt that was also covered in jam.

[Chris]

It was mainly stickers and just a bit of jam.

[Susan]

Oh, Chris, it's fine. I bet you any money your mum will have washed and dried it by the time you go and pick Martha up tomorrow?

[Chris]

She might. She might. But she knows that Martha refused to change into something clean and respectable, so don't fret. Okay?

[Susan]

Okay. Sorry, I'm a bit on edge. I mean, I'm really not in the mood for a party.

[Chris]

Me neither, to be honest. But it's Harrison, isn't it?

[Presenter]

So.

[Susan]

Yeah, I know. We've got to go.

[Chris]

You can always slope off early.

[Susan]

Yeah, that's true.

[Chris]

I mean, I don't think anyone's going to stay that late on a Tuesday night.

[Susan]

No, I'm sure it'll be fine. I'll be fine. Let's just get there.

[Presenter]

Right.

[Ben]

Shall I have a read? Yes, please.

[Presenter]

David.

[Ben]

Is this it? Yes. Okay. Great.

[Presenter]

Oh, and David, I've been meaning to ask.

[Ben]

Yes?

[Presenter]

Would you read it on the actual day?

[Ben]

You mean at the funeral?

[Presenter]

Yes.

[David]

I'd like to hear it in your lovely voice.

[Ben]

Of course, Mum, of course. I'd be honoured.

[Susan]

Good.

[Presenter]

Thank you. Right.

[Ben]

Ok, let's see what you've said.

[David]

Actually, would you mind reading it out loud?

[Ben]

Out loud? Right now?

[Presenter]

So I can hear if I should change something?

[Ben]

Oh, yeah, of course, if that's what you want.

[Presenter]

David, can you just come in here a sec?

[Ben]

Oh, I'm sorry, Mum. I'll be right back. Hang on. What's wrong?

[David]

Nothing's wrong. Well, not badly wrong. I was just checking the farm diary. I'm not sure if we've booked the Shearers.

[Ben]

Oh, Lord, yes, we have. I thought about this this morning. Great minds think alike. I booked them ages ago, but then I forgot to tell you or put it in the diary, so. Sorry.

[David]

No, no, that. That's great. That's a relief.

[Ben]

They're coming next week. Put it in now, in case anyone else wonders.

[David]

Yeah, I will.

[Ben]

I'll check with Ed, too. He's coming over. He and Josh will help handle the sheep and do the fleeces. All agreed?

[David]

Oh, that's brilliant. I was worried.

[Ben]

No, it's all fine. Just another example of me going off track. And our minds have been very full of Open Farm Sunday.

[Presenter]

Great.

[Joy]

Okay.

[David]

I'm gonna cross that off the list.

[Presenter]

Right.

[David]

Oh, David, you really are back in the game.

[Ben]

Thanks, I think.

[David]

Pity we can't do a shearing demo for Alton Farm Sunday.

[Ben]

You are joking, aren't you?

[Presenter]

I am.

[Ben]

Ed will be on the farm on Sunday as well, though, keeping an eye out for us. I still want him to do that.

[David]

How's the eulogy looking?

[Ben]

I haven't had a chance to read it yet.

[Susan]

Can we do anything to help?

[Fallon]

Oh, yes, please. If you could just put those crisps and olives in these little bowls. That would be great.

[Presenter]

Sure.

[Chris]

What about me? What can I do?

[Fallon]

You could give Alice a hand.

[Presenter]

Okay.

[Chris]

Harrison not here yet?

[Fallon]

No, he got a bit held up, but he's on his way. Shouldn't be too long.

[Susan]

And he's got no idea that this is happening?

[Fallon]

No, none. So when I know he's nearly here, I'd love it if everyone could hide and then jump out and shout surprise.

[Chris]

You don't think the balloons might give it away before then?

[Presenter]

Well, yeah, maybe.

[Fallon]

Just wanted something, you know, celebratory. But balloons are nice, aren't they?

[Susan]

Balloons are great.

[Chris]

Arthur loves them.

[Fallon]

Harrison is a bit like a kid himself, let's face it.

[Presenter]

True.

[Joy]

Jane wants to know when the karaoke's starting.

[Fallon]

Oh, tell him we need Harrison to turn up first.

[Chris]

Are we doing karaoke?

[Fallon]

Yeah, I bought a karaoke machine for Harrison. He's always wanted one.

[Presenter]

Oh, a great present. I know. Right.

[Chris]

Who's to Jane?

[Fallon]

He's Helen's new fella.

[Joy]

Oh, I'm not sure he's a fella exactly. This is only their second date.

[Fallon]

Really? Yeah, I thought it was a bit more established than that.

[Susan]

Do you want all these quisps out, fella?

[Fallon]

No. Maybe keep a few back unopened.

[Susan]

Okay.

[Joy]

How are you two doing anyway?

[Presenter]

Us?

[Susan]

Yeah, we're okay. We're fine.

[Chris]

You're fine?

[Presenter]

Fine, yeah, we're fine, aren't we?

[Susan]

Yeah, we are. We're fine.

[Joy]

And how is Martha?

[Susan]

Oh, she's lovely.

[Chris]

Well, mainly lovely with occasional meltdown.

[Fallon]

That's every four year old, surely.

[Chris]

Exactly.

[Presenter]

Exactly.

[Chris]

Just like every four year old, but a tiny bit better.

[Susan]

Shall I take some of these things through them, Fallon?

[Fallon]

Oh, yeah. Thanks, Alice. If they could just go out on the table in the garden, I'll give you a hand. Thanks, guys.

[Joy]

Ah, this is really nice, Fallon.

[Fallon]

Yeah, I'm glad I'm doing it now everyone's here. Well, everyone except Harrison.

[Joy]

Is everything all right with Chris and Alice?

[Fallon]

I think so. Why?

[Joy]

How many times did they use the word fine?

[Fallon]

I didn't count.

[Joy]

It was quite a lot.

[Fallon]

I didn't really notice. But then I'm pretty distracted by the fact that it's Harrison's 40th and he isn't actually here yet.

[Joy]

He'll be here. He'll be here really soon.

[Fallon]

Yeah, but look, I've got him on my phone on that, you know, that location finder.

[Joy]

Oh, yeah.

[Fallon]

Right now he's just not moving.

[Joy]

Well, he'll be in traffic, Fallon.

[Fallon]

On a Tuesday.

[Joy]

Traffic does happen on a Tuesday.

[Ben]

Okay. Sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry. All sorted now.

[Presenter]

That's all right.

[David]

It's a busy time.

[Presenter]

Right.

[Ben]

Okay. Here we go then.

[Susan]

Thank you.

[Ben]

I first met my dear friend Peggy in the year 1957. Isn't that extraordinary? 1957. When I first arrived in Ambridge, I wasn't planning to become a farmer's wife and live here for the rest of my life. In fact, the prospect would have absolutely horrified the young girl I was at the time. I had never lived anywhere remotely rural and I was a proper outsider. But when I married Phil Archer, it was my sister in law, Peggy, who welcomed me into the family and who helped me feel that I might one day belong. Our friendship lasted for 68 years. Yeah, through the good and the bad. The losses and the joys. And the great thing about Peggy, and this was a great thing, even if it was sometimes a little bit frightening, was that she didn't hold back. She said what she really thought. And I valued this tremendously. Because, of course, when I asked her for advice, advice, or I talked about my worries, she gave me an honest answer, which, frankly, was a great deal more useful than some old flannel. But while Peggy shot from the hip, she also spoke from the heart. She was incredibly tough and incredibly kind, as anyone who watched her nurse her beloved second husband, Jack Woolley, through Alzheimer's can attest. Only quite recently we went to the Bull for a drink, Peggy and I. I ordered a sweet sherry, as I always do on such occasions. And as always, Peggy ordered a dry sherry. And since Peggy had such a long history with our beloved village pub, it pleases me immensely that this was the venue for one of our final meetings. I will miss my sherries with Peggy. Peggy, who could be very dry and also very sweet. I shall miss her more than I can say. Well, what do you think? It's perfect, Mum. It's absolutely perfect.

[Presenter]

You read it really well.

[Ben]

I'm glad you'll be reading for me in the church. Oh, good.

[David]

How are you two doing?

[Presenter]

Very well, thank you.

[Ben]

Mum's written a really beautiful eulogy for Peggy. I wouldn't change a word of it, Mum.

[Presenter]

No, I don't think I will.

[Ben]

It's going to be quite a funeral.

[David]

Yeah, it's true. A lot of people in that church.

[Ben]

You okay, Mum?

[Presenter]

Yes, thank you, David.

[Ben]

You seem better. Me? You cheered up? Immensely.

[David]

He has, hasn't he?

[Ben]

You were very stressed and now you're not. That's true.

[David]

I'm glad. Does anyone fancy a glass of wine.

[Ben]

Oh, now there's an idea.

[David]

I thought maybe we could raise a toast to Peggy.

[Ben]

Yes. In that case, I think I'll have a sherry.

[David]

A sherry? Seriously?

[Ben]

Yep. Preferably dry, please.

[David]

Ok. Wow.

[Ben]

Mum, glass of wine or a sweet sherry? Oh, I. I think I'll have to join you in the sherry.

[Presenter]

David's hilarious.

[Susan]

He is.

[Joy]

And Fallon and Natasha seem to be really getting on.

[Susan]

I know. I was a bit surprised Natasha and Tom were invited.

[Joy]

Oh, she was very savvy, your grandmother.

[Susan]

Oh, you mean her catering plans for the funeral?

[Joy]

Yeah.

[Susan]

You know we've all got to go on holiday together, don't you? With Gran's money.

[Joy]

I did hear that.

[Susan]

Either it's going to bring us all together or we're gonna half kill each other. What time is it?

[Joy]

I don't know. 8:15.

[Susan]

Harrison should be here by now, surely.

[Joy]

I suppose the night is young. Well, youngish.

[Susan]

Like me.

[Presenter]

I can't believe it.

[Fallon]

I just can't believe it.

[Susan]

What's wrong?

[Fallon]

Harrison's not coming.

[David]

What?

[Presenter]

Why?

[Fallon]

There's been some development with a case he's working on and he got a call and had to turn around and go back.

[Susan]

Or did he tell them it's his birthday party?

[Fallon]

No, because he doesn't know it's happening, does he?

[Joy]

You should have told him.

[Fallon]

That would have made him feel worse.

[Susan]

Especially if he hasn't got choice.

[Presenter]

He hasn't.

[Fallon]

What am I gonna do?

[Joy]

Well, what can you do?

[Fallon]

But how can I have a 40th birthday party for Harrison without Harrison?

[David]

I wondered where you were.

[Ben]

I just thought I'd better give these poor roses a bit of water.

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[David]

Mum would never have let her roses get so parched.

[Ben]

Oh, well, actually, that's the thought that prompted me.

[David]

Was it really?

[Ben]

It was.

[David]

Oh, it's nice.

[Ben]

Well, I am nice. Ah, I am. How was your meeting?

[David]

It was good. It was very good. Although Natasha and Fallon were both feeling rather the worse for wear.

[Ben]

Really?

[David]

Harrison's 40th birthday party last night?

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[David]

I told you this already.

[Ben]

Did you?

[David]

That's why I was managing the pub, remember?

[Ben]

Oh, yes.

[David]

Honestly, I do wonder if you actually listen to anything I say.

[Ben]

Lillian. I hang on your every word.

[Presenter]

Aha.

[David]

If only. Anyway, apparently they all overdid it, stayed up far too late, drank too much and generally had a marvellous time, by the sounds of it.

[Ben]

Well, why weren't we invited?

[David]

Because Kenton and Jolene were at the party and someone had to run the pub.

[Ben]

Oh, yes. Sorry.

[David]

Wasn't it clever of my mother to insist that Natasha do the catering for the funeral and the ball. Do the hosting.

[Ben]

Still seems a bit awkward and impractical to me.

[David]

Fallon and Natasha seem to be making it work without any difficulty whatsoever. So lucky it's them and not you, eh?

[Ben]

Yes, that's true. And they're getting all better now, are they?

[David]

Yeah, yeah, thanks to Mum. Cunning plan.

[Ben]

You're sure they weren't both just on their best behavior in front of you?

[David]

Well, they might have been, I suppose. But Fallon didn't have to invite Tom and Natasha to Harrison's birthday, did she?

[Ben]

Oh, that's very true.

[David]

So things are clearly better between all of them.

[Ben]

Well, good for Peggy. In that case.

[David]

It's just a shame that Harrison didn't make it.

[Ben]

Didn't make it to his own party.

[David]

Police business kept him away.

[Ben]

Oh, that is bad.

[Presenter]

I know.

[David]

Poor Harrison. Oh, was that. Was that me or you?

[Ben]

You. My. My phone's in the kitchen.

[David]

Oh. Oh, it's a message from Christine.

[Ben]

Everything all right?

[David]

Well, apparently there's someone at the Laurels who wants to talk to me about Mum.

[Presenter]

Who?

[David]

She doesn't say who, but she's asked if I can pop over there right now.

[Susan]

Ben, you're back.

[Alice]

I said I would be.

[David]

I never know whether to believe you.

[Alice]

Thanks.

[David]

I get it. You're busy. You're not even a farmer anymore.

[Alice]

I'm not sure I ever really was, to be honest. Anyway, what can I do to help?

[David]

Well, the Events Barn could do with tidying up. It's become a bit of an accidental storage unit for the last couple of weeks.

[Alice]

Okay.

[David]

I don't know why that always happens.

[Alice]

Nature hates a vacuum.

[David]

Yeah, but Farhan's coming over first thing tomorrow to start setting up. She's doing the teas in there on Sunday and it doesn't look very appealing right now.

[Presenter]

Right.

[Alice]

Okay.

[David]

Thanks.

[Alice]

No worries.

[David]

Oh, and Ben?

[Presenter]

Yeah?

[David]

I meant to ask you this morning, but I didn't really get the chance. What is. What do you know about catastrophising?

[Alice]

Catastrophizing?

[David]

I was looking it up. At 2 o' clock in the morning? There's loads of books, but I just wanted to find some simple exercises or techniques for dealing with it. And then I thought, what am I doing? I should just talk to you.

[Alice]

I'm not an expert or anything.

[David]

No, I didn't imagine you were an expert.

[Alice]

There's loads of behavioral therapies that you can do. But what are you catastrophizing about?

[David]

It wasn't actually for me. It's your dad. He's Been anxious about this year's Orton Farm Sunday.

[Alice]

Why? We've been doing it for years.

[David]

Well, I feel a bit bad telling you the kind of thing he's been saying because he was so embarrassed when he was telling me.

[Alice]

But he's my dad. And if you're worried about him, then I want to know.

[David]

But he won't want you to know, will he?

[Alice]

Mum, what's going on?

[David]

We came close to canceling it.

[Presenter]

What?

[David]

We're definitely still gonna go ahead.

[Alice]

Ay, me, poor dad. It must be bad.

[David]

Honestly, Ben. I mean, you know what he's like. He's so sensible and practical and quite literally down to earth. It's very, very unlike him.

[Alice]

Can you just tell me what he said?

[David]

Basically, you can't stop imagining that something terrible is gone to happen this Sunday.

[Ben]

So who do you think he is, this Arthur person?

[David]

I have no idea, Justin.

[Ben]

Well, I have my theories.

[David]

You always have your theories, Justin, and they generally don't pan out because you assume the worst in people rather than the best.

[Ben]

I'm telling you, Peggy's gone and married one of the other residents in secret, on the sly. And that's where all the dosh has gone.

[David]

Goodness sake, will you keep your voice down? I'm sure that's not it at all.

[Ben]

How much do you want to bet on it?

[David]

Are you serious?

[Ben]

Why not? Might as well get some fun out of the whole thing. We're clearly not getting any money, that's for sure.

[David]

Honestly, Justin, how can you be so awful? My mother has just died, for goodness sake.

[Ben]

Yes, I'm sorry. You're doing so well. I'm glad you're feeling a bit more yourself today.

[David]

Yeah, well, that's all very well, but whatever Mum did with her own money was her prerogative.

[Ben]

But of course it was. I never said it wasn't.

[David]

And when we meet this Arthur person, be nice.

[Ben]

When am I anything else?

[David]

Quite often, I think you'll find.

[Presenter]

Excuse me. Hey, are you Lillian?

[David]

Yes, yes. Yes, I am. Hello.

[Presenter]

I'm Arthur.

[David]

Oh, well, this is my partner, Justin.

[Presenter]

Pleased to meet you, Justin.

[Ben]

Yes, likewise.

[Presenter]

Shall we have a cup of tea in the garden?

[David]

Yes, that sounds lovely.

[Ben]

Are you a resident here at the Laurels, Arthur?

[Presenter]

No, no, no. But I am a regular visitor, which is how I came to know Mrs. Woolley. We became rather good friends, in fact.

[Ben]

I told you, Justin. Sorry, sorry.

[David]

Nothing, nothing. Arthur, please do carry on.

[Presenter]

Your mother was just such a wonderful human human being. But you both know that, of course.

[Ben]

Oh, Ben, great, you're back. We weren't sure you'd make it.

[Presenter]

Yep.

[Alice]

So I understand.

[Ben]

Would you help me shift a few bits and pieces into the barn?

[Alice]

What bits and pieces?

[Ben]

Just some things I need to clear from the yard.

[Alice]

But Mum's just asked me to clear the barn.

[Ben]

Did she?

[Joy]

Yeah.

[Alice]

So I've already started moving things out into the yard.

[Ben]

Yeah, but we don't need this place cleared till the weekend.

[Alice]

Apparently, Fallon's coming tomorrow to set up.

[Ben]

Why? Why does she need to set up three days in advance?

[Alice]

Don't ask me. I just work here. Actually, I don't even work here.

[Ben]

Okay. I'll go and speak to Ruth.

[Presenter]

Dad? Yeah?

[Alice]

How are you feeling?

[Ben]

How am I feeling?

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[Alice]

Just wondered.

[Presenter]

How you doing?

[Ben]

Oh, for goodness sake.

[Presenter]

What?

[Ben]

Your mother.

[Alice]

She just told me about the intrusive thoughts.

[Ben]

What intrusive thoughts?

[Alice]

Whatever the terrible scenarios were that you couldn't stop imagining.

[Ben]

Wouldn't call them intrusive thoughts.

[Alice]

Well, that's kind of how they sounded to me.

[Ben]

Look, whatever was going on, it stopped, right? And I'm really glad about that, obviously. And I don't need to talk. And even if I did, I haven't got time.

[Alice]

We've got five minutes, surely. I'm your son and I'm a health professional. Or, you know, I nearly am. Look, there's techniques that you can use for controlling your anxiety. Really simple things. Not just breathing exercises, you know, visualizations, ways of getting things into perspective.

[Ben]

Ben, I don't need a health professional. I just need to work out what we're doing with all this gear.

[Presenter]

We used to sit out here and chat quite often, Peggy and I.

[Ben]

Well, it's a beautiful garden, isn't it?

[Presenter]

Peggy loved the roses. Yes.

[David]

Yes, she had lots at home.

[Presenter]

I suppose you must be wondering why I was so keen to meet with you today.

[Ben]

Well, yes, we are rather intrigued, Justin.

[David]

What?

[Ben]

We are.

[Presenter]

Forgive me for not getting. Getting right to it.

[David]

Oh, that's all right.

[Presenter]

My apologies.

[David]

No, no apology necessary, Arthur.

[Presenter]

Honestly, I don't always find it easy to. To. To stay on task.

[David]

Oh, well, me neither.

[Presenter]

Well, I'll. I'll try and cut to the chase, as they say. I wanted to see you in person, Lillian, to tell you how grateful we are for the money.

[David]

But. The money.

[Presenter]

Peggy made such a generous donation to the charity where I volunteer.

[Ben]

Oh, did she really?

[Presenter]

Didn't you know?

[David]

No, no, no, we didn't.

[Ben]

So which charity is this?

[Presenter]

It's a local dementia support network.

[David]

Ah, yes, well, that makes a lot of sense.

[Presenter]

One of the things that we do is to help people Lead more autonomous lives for longer.

[Ben]

And how do you manage that, if you don't mind my asking?

[Presenter]

Well, in all kinds of ways. It's amazing how the thinking, the approach, has come on since the old days. Technology has been a huge help. Smart speakers and iPads and so on. And we don't just support the dementia patient, we also support families and friends. Because the emotional and physical burden can be a bit much, can't it?

[David]

Yes, it most certainly can.

[Presenter]

And, of course, Peggy was well aware of that, since she cared for her husband for so long.

[David]

Indeed.

[Presenter]

I know at times my wife struggles with my condition.

[Ben]

Oh, and what condition is that, then?

[Presenter]

Well, I myself have dementia, you see.

[Ben]

You. You have dementia?

[Presenter]

Oh, yes. Really?

[David]

I wouldn't have guessed that in a million years.

[Presenter]

It's true.

[Ben]

But Charlie, also articulate and together, downright dapper.

[Presenter]

Well, I should hope I am dapper. I used to work on Saville Row, you know.

[David]

Did you really?

[Ben]

Savile Row, eh?

[Presenter]

I mean, it was a long time ago now, but I. I still care very much about the finish on a seam or the cut of a jacket. And I'd much rather wear a tie than not.

[Ben]

Oh, yes, I agree about the tie business.

[Presenter]

Nice shoes, by the way.

[Ben]

Oh, thank you.

[Presenter]

Italian, I assume.

[Ben]

Absolutely.

[David]

Well, I think you're incredibly impressive, Arthur.

[Presenter]

Thank you. Thank you very much. But I don't think I'd manage to be anywhere near so impressive without the support I receive. And thanks to Peggy's bequest, more people in my position will be able to benefit. You see?

[Ben]

Brilliant. I mean, just brilliant. And so inspiring. I think Peggy made absolutely the right decision, don't you?

[Susan]

Yeah.

[David]

Yes, I do.

[Presenter]

Would it be all right. Would you mind terribly if I came along to the funeral?

[David]

Oh, Arthur, of course we wouldn't mind.

[Presenter]

Thank you.

[Ben]

And you might like to know the church will be absolutely filled with roses.

[Presenter]

Well, I should hope so, too.

[Ben]

Okay, so if we just stack everything against the wall for now, then Fallon can still. Still set up over here, can't she?

[Presenter]

Yeah.

[Ben]

And maybe we should bring a few hay bales in here for people to sit on.

[Alice]

I mean, we've got those trestle tables.

[Ben]

Yeah, but if it's busy, we might need extra seating.

[Alice]

Okay.

[Ben]

And listen.

[Presenter]

I do appreciate you checking.

[Ben]

In on me before I do. I wasn't trying to be dismissive of your expertise.

[Alice]

It's all right. I didn't think you were.

[Ben]

But I am, actually. Okay. I'm excited again about the day, and the whole fear thing has sort of receded. Talking to your mum Put it all in perspective.

[Alice]

Okay, well, that's good. That's great. But if the fear thing comes back.

[Ben]

Again, I know where to come.

[Alice]

Can I just say one thing?

[Ben]

Yeah, what?

[Alice]

I'm really glad, really glad that you didn't cancel.

[Ben]

So am I. I've been thinking. You were right, you know.

[David]

Well, I'm always right, Justin. I'm like the customer. But what specific issue are you referring to?

[Ben]

Well, getting away from Ambridge. I mean, really getting away. Going for several months at least.

[David]

Are you serious?

[Ben]

Perfectly.

[David]

What on earth has brought this on?

[Ben]

Well, we don't know how long we've got, do we?

[David]

Justin, it's not like you to be morbid.

[Ben]

I don't necessarily mean death or dying.

[David]

What do you mean then?

[Ben]

Just that. Well, anything could happen anytime. Ill health, for instance. For either one of us, of course.

[David]

But surely that's always been the case.

[Ben]

No, no, my point is one not getting any younger.

[David]

I don't know about that. I feel a darn sight younger than I did last week.

[Ben]

Well, I'm glad you're feeling better. I really am. But I still think if we really want to go on a four month cruise, then we should seize the day before we miss the boat, as it were.

[David]

But when I was looking at all the brochures, you weren't remotely interested.

[Ben]

I changed my mind.

[David]

Yeah, well, so have I. I'm over all that now and I just want to crack on.

[Ben]

Crack on with what exactly?

[David]

With life. With living.

[Ben]

Oh. A lot of people would regard a four month cruise as very much living life.

[David]

I know. But honestly, Justin, since then I've had my epiphany.

[Ben]

What epiphany?

[David]

My realization that I'm needed here. Specifically by Alice.

[Ben]

I wouldn't call that an epiphany.

[David]

Well, you call it what you like. I still don't want to leave Ambridge right now or for the foreseeable.

[Ben]

So we can't go on a four month cruise because of Alice?

[David]

It's not just Alice. I mean, there's the stables and the ball and Tony.

[Ben]

Oh, Tony seems absolutely fine.

[David]

And I'm sure he's not fine, Justin. He had a very different relationship with our mother. And he has a very different way of dealing with things. But that doesn't mean he's fine.

[Ben]

No, no, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to sound dismissive.

[David]

No, it just comes naturally. And what about BL and all your other responsibilities?

[Ben]

I could find someone to supervise.

[Joy]

Like who?

[Ben]

I don't know. But where there's a Will, there's a way. And what does it matter if there's no will from you?

[David]

I am civil. Sorry. I never imagined you would u turn like this.

[Ben]

No, no, me neither.

[Joy]

What's going on, darling?

[Ben]

I don't know. I, I, I can't quite explain it. I just feel as if I'm not doing what I ought to be doing.

[David]

And what ought you to be doing?

[Ben]

Ah, something important. Something that matters. Just something that makes a difference.

[David]

Well, going on a cruise would hardly fulfil that remit.

[Ben]

No, but we'd be together, taking the trip of a lifetime, so that would be meaningful in itself.

[David]

Oh, well, I'm delighted that you feel that way. It's music to my ears.

[Ben]

But you still don't want to do it?

[David]

Not right now.

[Presenter]

Sorry.

[Ben]

What do you think would happen if one of us got Alzheimer's?

[David]

Alzheimer's?

[Ben]

Or dementia of any sort.

[Presenter]

Of.

[David]

Well, I hope we look after each other.

[Ben]

Do you think we'd do as good a job as Arthur and his wife?

[David]

Oh, darling, is that what this is all about?

[Ben]

I just thought he was very impressive, didn't you?

[David]

Absolutely.

[Ben]

He just shone with integrity.

[David]

Yeah, he did.

[Ben]

And I can't stop thinking about how I'm not doing anything like that to contribute.

[David]

Well, I'm sure if you wanted to get involved, you could become a volunteer with Arthur's charity.

[Ben]

I could, I could. But I'm not sure that's the right kind of thing for me.

[David]

Justin, there's so much that needs doing in the world, you're spoiled for choice.

[Presenter]

Really? Yes.

[David]

Listen, I'm planning to go up to the rewilding site after lunch, if you fancy coming with me.

[Ben]

Oh, well, I do, actually.

[Susan]

Oh, great.

[David]

Because Kirsty wants to talk through a few ideas for the natural artwork that Mum is funding and might be useful to have your thoughts, particularly as you have a stake in the whole business.

[Ben]

Oh, sounds good to me.

[David]

But first I want to eat lunch and not worry too much about imminent death or losing my marbles. Is that all right?

[Ben]

That sounds very reasonable.

[Presenter]

Hiya.

[Joy]

Oh, Ben. Oh, come in, come in. Don't let all the boxes put you off.

[Alice]

What's going on?

[Joy]

Had a few deliveries.

[Alice]

A few?

[Joy]

Didn't expect everything to arrive all at once. Someone's coming tomorrow to add some extra shelving over there, but till then it's a bit tricky.

[Alice]

Can I give you a hand?

[Joy]

Oh, I wouldn't say no if you've got a minute. I don't want to keep you, though.

[Alice]

I've got about 10 minutes. Probably not much more?

[Joy]

Oh, 10 minutes is excellent. Thank you. If you could just help me get this lot off the floor and into the stock room, that'd be wonderful.

[Presenter]

Sure.

[Joy]

What did you come in here for?

[Alice]

Sandwich.

[Joy]

Ah, bit late for lunch. Half two, isn't it?

[Alice]

Well, I haven't had a break till now.

[Joy]

Well, I'm not sure what I've got left. Let's see. Oh, there's a couple ploughmans or a hummus rat.

[Alice]

I'll take the ploughman's, please.

[Joy]

Okie doke. I'll put it on the side for you.

[Alice]

Thanks.

[Joy]

Oh, and somewhere I've got those dog be biscuits you wanted.

[Alice]

It's all right. Don't fancy dog biscuits today.

[Joy]

Good job. I might not even be able to find them in the chaos.

[Alice]

What's in this one?

[Presenter]

It's heavy.

[Joy]

Oh, I don't know. Oh, that might be the hammers and the mallets.

[Alice]

Right.

[Joy]

When people are camping round here, they sometimes forget to bring a mallet, you see, so. Well, I thought it might not be a bad idea.

[Ben]

Fair enough.

[Joy]

And the hammers, they're part of the DIY section. Oh, but don't hurt yourself, Ben. Can't afford to be sewed.

[Presenter]

Well, I'm not sure you're going to.

[Alice]

Fit everything in here, you know.

[Joy]

Oh, no, I think I've gone a bit too far in all my enthusiasm. Don't tell Joy, will you?

[Alice]

Well, isn't Joy going to see it all?

[Joy]

Yeah, but I'm hoping to have everything looking lovely by the time she does her next shift.

[Alice]

When is her next shift?

[Joy]

Saturday. So if the shells get done tomorrow, I should be all right.

[Alice]

Well done.

[Joy]

You all set for open Farm Sunday?

[Alice]

I think so, yeah.

[Joy]

Heard your dad's asked Will and Ed to do security.

[Alice]

And Rex.

[Presenter]

Yeah, probably.

[Joy]

Quite sensible, really.

[David]

Oh, afternoon, Kirsty.

[Joy]

Oh, hi, Lillian. Justin. Gorgeous day, isn't it?

[Ben]

It really is.

[David]

How's it all going?

[Joy]

Really well, thank you. I was just getting set up for pond dipping, one of our weekend activities.

[Ben]

Excellent.

[Joy]

Do you fancy having a go at pond dipping?

[Ben]

I'm not sure I'm wearing the right shoes.

[David]

Oh, I brought Justin along to talk about the art installation. Kirsty.

[Joy]

Oh, great. All ideas are welcome at this stage. Peggy's left us a pretty generous whack of money, so we should be able to do something amazing.

[Ben]

What ideas are on the table so far?

[Joy]

Well, I think Rex told you already that we'd like it to commemorate Peggy in some way.

[Presenter]

Yes.

[David]

Yes, he did. And obviously I'd love that.

[Joy]

So I guess the question is, is it a sculpture? Maybe something made out of a fallen tree? Or is it something to play on, Something kids can scramble all over? Is it interactive?

[David]

I suppose ideally it's interactive because we want something that encourages people to come here.

[Ben]

But at the same time, we don't want the whole site overrun.

[Joy]

Well, no, it's a tricky balance really, as it always is. Attracting interest but not wanting hordes of people to disrupt the natural environment and disturb the wildlife.

[Alice]

The stock room's full now, Susan.

[Joy]

Oh, dear.

[Alice]

And I don't know how you're gonna access anything else that's in there.

[Joy]

Oh, don't worry, I'll sort it, Ben. Might have to wait till the shop closes, that's all.

[Presenter]

Hiya.

[Joy]

Oh, Joy.

[Alice]

Hi, Joy.

[Presenter]

All right, Ben?

[Alice]

Yeah, yeah, good, thanks.

[Fallon]

Are you?

[David]

Very well, thank you.

[Joy]

Are these all the new orders? Yes. That was fast work.

[Susan]

Yes.

[Alice]

I should get going, Susan.

[Joy]

Oh, of course you should. Sorry, Ben.

[Alice]

No, no, no problem. I just need to pay for the sandwich.

[Joy]

No, no, no, there'll be no charge. It's on the house, really.

[Alice]

Oh, thanks. Alright, I'll see you later.

[Joy]

See you, Ben. Thanks so much.

[Ben]

No problem.

[Joy]

He was just helping me move a few boxes into the stock room. You mean there's more than this lot? A few more, yeah. Shall I help you move the rest? No, no, no, it's all right. I can manage. Don't mind, I've got time. There's no more space in the stock room, I'm afraid.

[Presenter]

None at all.

[Joy]

I might have got a bit carried away, Joy.

[Presenter]

Right.

[Joy]

Okay. But anything we don't see how we can sing back.

[Presenter]

Really?

[Joy]

Some of it at least.

[Ben]

Wow.

[Presenter]

What happened in here? Did it rain boxes? Looks like it, doesn't it?

[Joy]

What can I get you? A hammer, a washer, box of screws? We've got cross head screws, wood screws, timber screws, plaster head screws, security screws. You name a screw, we got it.

[Ben]

Actually, I just came in for a newspaper.

[Joy]

Oh.

[Presenter]

Although that is a very impressive list.

[Joy]

Of screws, Daddy thinks. Don't trip over the box by your feet, Achra.

[Ben]

Oh, yes, thanks.

[Joy]

Let me just move that one.

[Presenter]

Although.

[Ben]

Actually, Susan.

[Joy]

Yes?

[Presenter]

I was going to drive over to the hardware store in Borchester this afternoon and if I didn't have to do that.

[Joy]

Oh, what did you need in Borchester?

[Presenter]

A mallet. Oh, I could really do with a mallet.

[Joy]

Well, in that case, you've come to just the place.

[Presenter]

Ah.

[Joy]

I'm sure we'll find the right thing if we just Keep the conversation going.

[David]

Yes, I'm sure.

[Ben]

Why don't we just have a wander around, Lillian, and see if inspiration strikes?

[Presenter]

Right.

[David]

That sounds nice.

[Joy]

Are you sure you don't want to try the pond dipping?

[David]

Well, do you know, I wouldn't mind giving it a go.

[Ben]

No, I won't. Thank you, Kirsty.

[David]

Oh, come on, darling. Why not? What's wrong with you?

[Ben]

It's an activity for a 5 year old. I'm sorry, Kirsty. I wasn't trying to disparage your efforts.

[Joy]

I didn't think you were, Justin.

[David]

Well, I'm up for it. Even if Justin's not.

[Presenter]

Great. This is brilliant. This is amazing, Susan. I think you might have changed my life. Oh.

[Joy]

Oh, well, I'm happy to have helped. You know it was Azra who suggested that we stock all this, don't you, Akram?

[Presenter]

I didn't know that. No.

[Joy]

So you've got her to thank as well. But it was me who took the ball by the horns and went and ordered everything.

[Ben]

I'm very glad you did.

[Joy]

I'll just add it all up for you, Akram.

[Ben]

Thank you.

[Joy]

You see, Joy?

[Presenter]

What?

[Joy]

It's all gonna work out just fine. So you've got your pond net, a pond tray, a magnifying glass and your identification sheet.

[David]

Marvelous. Would you know, when I was little, whenever we were by this pond or the River Am, we used to play a silly dares game. Did either of you ever play dares?

[Joy]

No, I don't think so.

[David]

Well, perhaps it was just us then.

[Joy]

What did the game involve?

[David]

Oh, it wasn't very complicated. Tony and Jenny and I would pretend to push each other into the water like this. I didn't actually mean to push you in. Honestly. I didn't shake my shoes. Well, why on earth are you wearing expensive footwear? To tread through fields?

[Ben]

I wasn't going to put on my Wellingtons to come and talk about art installations, was I?

[Susan]

I'm sorry.

[Presenter]

I'm so sorry, darling. Yes, you sound it. No, your face just said, grab my hand.

[Joy]

I really don't want you to go in any further.

[Ben]

Thank you, Kirsty. That's a lot more useful than simply smirking at me.

[David]

Oh, darling, I'm not smirking. It really wasn't deliberate.

[Ben]

Oh, what the hell.

[David]

Shoes don't matter that much, darling. I know they do.

[Ben]

Really, sir, just such a relief to see you laughing.

[Joy]

Oh, Justine.

[Presenter]

Yes, it does feel good.

[David]

I don't think Mum would mind, do you?

[Ben]

So, no. I can just imagine Peggy looking down on us right now and Laughing with you.

[David]

So can I. So can I.

[Susan]

Oh, thanks, Fallon. Sorry, I didn't mean to leave the ping pong game behind.

[Fallon]

There's no worries. Thanks for bringing it to the party. Came in handy.

[Susan]

I know. Yeah. Kind of surprised that everyone got so into it.

[Fallon]

Have you got time for a quick coffee?

[Susan]

Oh, yes, please, if you do.

[Fallon]

Yeah, I totally do. Yeah.

[Susan]

Ah, great.

[Fallon]

I'll get the kettle on and we can sit out in the garden.

[Susan]

What a treat on a weekday morning.

[Fallon]

I know. Look at us.

[Susan]

Oh. So, did you and Harrison have a lovely time together? I'm sorry I missed him.

[Fallon]

Oh, no, I didn't tell you, did I?

[Susan]

Tell me what?

[Fallon]

Harrison didn't make it.

[Susan]

What, he didn't make it to Ambridge at all?

[Fallon]

No.

[Presenter]

Oh, thank you. Yeah.

[Susan]

Oh, I can't believe it. I thought. I won't bother them. I thought you'd need time.

[Fallon]

Well, we do, but we didn't get it.

[Susan]

Oh, I'm so sorry. If I'd have known.

[Presenter]

It's all right.

[Fallon]

I mean, I. I was disappointed, but it's. It's this thing he's working on. It seems to be round the clock. He was going to come down yesterday, but it was me who said it's just not worth it.

[Susan]

Oh, what a shame.

[Joy]

Yeah.

[Fallon]

He'd have been knackered and he'd only have been here for about four hours.

[Joy]

I can't believe it.

[Fallon]

I know.

[Susan]

I feel like you two just don't have any luck at the moment.

[Fallon]

It's okay. It's just the way it is right now. Hopefully we'll look back on this year and just say, yeah, that was a really weird year.

[Susan]

He's not gone for a whole year, though, is he?

[Fallon]

Oh, no, no, no, he isn't. But we still don't know exactly when he'll be back.

[Susan]

Well, that's rubbish.

[Fallon]

Thing is, Alison, I mean, this sounds so bad and I wouldn't say to anyone but you.

[Presenter]

What?

[Fallon]

Don't judge, okay?

[Susan]

Oh, as if I'm gonna judge you.

[Fallon]

I don't actually miss him. I don't. Isn't that awful?

[Susan]

I don't know about awful.

[Fallon]

Please don't tell anyone else that I said that.

[Presenter]

No, I wouldn't.

[Fallon]

I mean, if I told my mum, then she'd start freaking out completely that we were heading for divorce or something. And I don't think we are.

[Ben]

Just.

[Fallon]

I just think I've got used to it. Living on my own, I mean. And I do kind of like it.

[Susan]

Yeah, well, I can see it's got its advantages. Exactly.

[Fallon]

It's luxurious. I've already got myself to think about. If I don't want to cook when I get home. I don't cook. I eat toast or cereal or peanut butter out the jar. If I want to go to the cinema or want to take a three hour bath or anything really, then I'm free to do it without negotiation, you know?

[Susan]

Yeah, basically it's.

[Fallon]

It's lovely. Too lovely.

[Ben]

Oh, morning, Kirsty.

[Joy]

Oh, morning, Justin.

[Ben]

How's it going?

[Joy]

Good, thanks. How are your shoes? They recovered?

[Ben]

No, no, they're beyond rescue.

[Joy]

Oh, dear. I sort of jumped it on you, didn't I? The pond dipping.

[Presenter]

Oh.

[Ben]

It never crossed my mind that Lillian might be interested in such a thing. And the worst of it is my Wellington boots were in the car all along.

[Joy]

Oh, no. Anyway, can I help you with something?

[Ben]

Yes, I thought I'd just check on how you're getting on with the summer activities.

[Joy]

Yes, all in hand.

[Ben]

Have you sorted the Grey Gables guest tours?

[Joy]

Yeah, there's a lot of enthusiasm about them over there. They seem to think they'll be very popular with the guests.

[Ben]

Excellent. Thank you.

[Joy]

We need to be sure we've got the route mapped out properly though, so they stay in the designated areas and the tours will be led, of course.

[Ben]

That sounds very good.

[Joy]

And the school activities are being advertised around local schools. The only thing I'm worried about is the campsite bookings we're down on last year. Rex and I are going to do a social media push.

[Ben]

What the hell is going on with the longhorns? Morning, Tony.

[Joy]

What do you mean, what's going on?

[Presenter]

I've just seen all 10 Longhorns roaming around all over the place. And all the fencing gone because we've.

[Joy]

Replaced the fences with the GPS system.

[Ben]

Well, you must have seen the collars.

[Presenter]

Of course I did, but I didn't agree to that. Tony.

[Joy]

You did agree. We talked about this weeks ago at some length.

[Presenter]

Yes, but I thought that was just chat. I didn't realize you were going ahead without any more consultation.

[Ben]

Oh, well, in that case, there's been.

[Presenter]

A misconduct communication or you've simply disregarded my reservations.

[Joy]

We dismissed it very thoroughly.

[Ben]

We took that very seriously.

[Presenter]

If you took me seriously, you would have kept me in the loop.

[Ben]

We thought we had, Tony. We really did.

[Joy]

We've invested a lot of cash in this.

[Ben]

I know.

[Presenter]

And obviously there's nothing can be done about it now. It's just not on going ahead without my say so. And if this is how you're going to run my Mother's legacy. I think it's very, very shoddy. Very shoddy indeed.

[Ben]

But we really thought we did have your say. So.

[Presenter]

Did you?

[Joy]

Honestly, Tony, why would we lie?

[Ben]

And it is such a brilliant piece of cake.

[Joy]

Can I just show you the app, please?

[Susan]

So, does Harrison even know that you threw him a party?

[Fallon]

No, I didn't have the heart to tell him.

[Susan]

Oh, Fallon.

[Fallon]

Plus, you know, we all had such a nice time.

[Susan]

Oh, we did come with it.

[Fallon]

Bad about that in the morning.

[Susan]

Why? What else were you supposed to do?

[Fallon]

I don't know.

[Susan]

You could hardly send everyone packing, could you?

[Fallon]

I couldn't believe how late everyone stayed.

[Susan]

I know. I was planning to make my excuses at half nine. I don't know what happened.

[Fallon]

Well, Dane was pretty entertaining.

[Susan]

Oh, he was brilliant on the karaoke. No wonder he was so keen to get that going. And your mom and Kent are doing Islands in the Stream.

[Fallon]

It's such a treat for them to get away from the pub for a night.

[Susan]

Oh, even Chris had a go. And he's really not a showman, is he?

[Fallon]

No. I was surprised when he picked meatloaf.

[Susan]

Yeah, actually, so was I.

[Fallon]

Two out of three ain't bad.

[Presenter]

I know.

[Fallon]

So you had a good time in the end?

[Susan]

Oh, we did. We really did.

[Fallon]

I was a bit worried about you when you first arrived.

[Presenter]

Why?

[Fallon]

You both seemed quite subdued.

[Susan]

Oh, yeah. Sorry about that.

[Fallon]

Don't apologize. I'm just checking in. Is everything okay?

[Susan]

Well, we have had a bit of a thing going on with Martha.

[Fallon]

Really?

[Susan]

That's why we're at the doctors on Monday.

[Fallon]

Okay.

[Susan]

I've been freaking out, actually, but I didn't want to talk about it at the party. Obviously, I didn't want to put a damper on things. But also, we haven't really told anyone what's happened. Well, now I did tell Lillian because I kind of broke down when I was at work, other than her.

[Presenter]

So.

[Fallon]

What's going on?

[Joy]

See all these little white dots? These are all the cows.

[Ben]

And we can program this from anywhere?

[Presenter]

Yes. I do understand the principle of the whole thing.

[Joy]

So when Rex or I are away later in the summer, we don't have to worry. We can check on the longhorns whenever we like. And. And from wherever we like, we can see them on the app. And Tony, you'll be looking out for them, too.

[Presenter]

But that's the point, isn't it? You're all set up with it on your phones. I should have that too, shouldn't I?

[Joy]

Of course. That was our next step.

[Presenter]

I just never Expected you to get all this going without involving me at every stage of the process.

[Joy]

Fair comment. But we were thinking of you, Tony. We just didn't want to bother you.

[Presenter]

I want to be bothered.

[Ben]

You've had so much to deal with.

[Presenter]

Not really.

[Ben]

Well, you've had the sewage, you've got a farm to run. Plus open farm Sunday, plus your mother's death.

[Presenter]

Yes, I haven't forgotten that my mother's.

[Ben]

Died, thank you very much.

[Presenter]

Just because I'm not obviously wracked by grief like Lillian doesn't mean it slipped my mind.

[Ben]

Justin, I really wasn't saying or implying that you're not. I know you're not uncaring.

[Presenter]

Good.

[Joy]

I do think the virtual fence is to going to be a radical improvement.

[Presenter]

Well, let's see, shall we? That sort of thing is wonderful until suddenly it isn't.

[Joy]

I am sorry, Tony.

[Presenter]

We're going to have to learn from this, aren't we?

[Joy]

Yes. Okay.

[Presenter]

Okay. Well, I better crack on. I've got a goat gymkhana to organize.

[Ben]

A goat gymkhana?

[Presenter]

Don't ask.

[Joy]

You don't fancy a cup of Tony?

[Presenter]

No, thank you. I don't need tea and s. I just need to be kept informed. I'll see you later.

[Joy]

Yep. See you later, Tony.

[Ben]

Bye. What on earth was all that about?

[Joy]

Well, it's easy to guess.

[Ben]

Yes. Listen, do you mind if I take this folder away with me?

[Joy]

No, of course not. As long as you bring it back.

[Ben]

Thank you.

[Joy]

Why do you want it?

[Ben]

I just want to have a good read.

[Joy]

Not my idea of a good read. Each to their own, I suppose.

[Ben]

It's true. Usually I prefer the Financial Times.

[Joy]

What are you planning, Justin?

[Ben]

What do you mean?

[Joy]

Lillian said something yesterday. Said she thought you were up to something, but she couldn't figure out what it was.

[Ben]

Lillian is always right, Kirsty. She is like the customer.

[Joy]

So you admit it?

[Ben]

I admit nothing for now.

[Fallon]

It sounds to me. I mean, from everything you've just said, that Martha is actually fine. She's just a bit behind, but only on certain things. And she's gonna catch up when she's ready. I mean, kids develop at such different rates.

[Susan]

I know I. I know they do.

[Fallon]

My mum says I barely spoke for ages.

[David]

Really?

[Fallon]

Yeah, she was really worried and look at me now.

[Presenter]

Don't.

[Susan]

Shut up.

[Fallon]

But I don't want to sound like I'm being dismissive.

[Susan]

Oh, you don't? You don't. It's the weight. I can't bear it. It's the not knowing.

[Fallon]

Well, what does Chris think?

[Susan]

You know what Chris is like. He's so hopelessly, relentlessly optimistic that he's no help whatsoever.

[Fallon]

Would you call me a relentless optimist?

[Susan]

I don't know.

[Fallon]

I mean, I like to think I'm a fairly positive person. But I'm not like Chris, am I?

[Susan]

No. I mean, you're very different people.

[Fallon]

The thing with Martha is she's bright as a button, Alice.

[Susan]

Do you think so?

[Fallon]

She is the shiniest little button I've ever met.

[Susan]

You're going to make me cry. Sorry, but when you were talking earlier about how great it is being on your own and having the luxury of doing what you want. Fallon, when I'm on my own, I don't feel like that. I feel this horrendous loneliness for Martha.

[Fallon]

Oh, Alice.

[Susan]

She's the absolute center of my universe.

[Presenter]

I know.

[Fallon]

I know she is. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be insensitive.

[Susan]

No, you weren't at all. And it's good you're doing okay. I mean. I mean, you wanted to give each other some space and you're enjoying it. What's wrong with that? It's better than being miserable and pining away.

[Fallon]

Yeah, but the less I see him, the less I need to see him.

[Susan]

Maybe that's sort of sadly inevitable.

[Fallon]

I can't talk to him about it because I can't admit that, can I?

[Susan]

Well, no.

[Fallon]

Can you imagine? But then maybe he doesn't miss me much either. Maybe we're both feeling the exact same thing. But then what does that mean in the long term?

[Susan]

Look, I'm sure it'll be all right, Fallon. I mean, once he's back, once you're living together again.

[Fallon]

But what if it's not? Alice.

[Presenter]

Sam, this is Dr. Chris and Dr. Zand here and we are dropping in to let you know about our new BBC Radio 4 podcast. In what's Up Docs.

[Alice]

We are going to be diving into the messy, complicated world of health and well being.

[Presenter]

Because it can be confusing, can't it, Zant? That's right, Chris. The mass of information out there can be contradictory. It can be overwhelming. And Chris and I get confused, too. That's right. We get seduced by the marketing, the hype, the trends. So we want to be your guides through it. And I think it's fair to say.

[Alice]

Xand, we are going to be getting personal.

[Presenter]

We're absolutely going to be getting personal, Chris. What I want to do is bring in my own health dilemmas in the hope that we can help you with yours.

[Alice]

Listen, and subscribe to WhatsApp docs on BBC Sounds.