← The Archers Omnibus
The Archers Omnibus
21/09/2025
01:13:00
There's a surprise twist at the Flower and Produce Show, and feelings stir for Paul.
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If you thought you had Turkey all figured out, try out the Turkogean lifestyle at the BBC. We go further so you see clearer. With a subscription to BBC.com, you get unlimited articles and videos, hundreds of ad free podcasts and the BBC News Channel streaming live 24. 7 from less than a dollar a week for your first year. Read, watch and listen to trusted independent journalism and storytelling. It all starts with a subscription to BBC.com. find out more@BBC.com unlimited. You're listening to the Archers Omnibus from BBC Radio 4. Paul? Oh, hi, Lily. I know the flower and produce is one of the highlights of the Ambridge autumn calendar, but don't you think you might be a tiny bit overdressed? Sense of you. I'm at a wedding. What's your excuse? Don't. When Dane said medieval, I was imagining some kind of beautiful gown, not this ridiculous jester suit. I think they were known as fools. I'm aware. Oh, you look great. I look ridiculous. So I wasn't nervous enough already? I never met a real celebrity before. Although I did see Alison Hammond in Underwoods a few months back. Impressive. Well, I'm 80% sure it was her. She was looking at air fryers. But anyway, this is different. Ms. Charlotte Smith. Yeah, it's just me. Dana's dealing with the wedding, so I've got to make sure she feels welcome. It's. Oh, it's just a lot. You'll be fine. I don't know if I will. Lily. What's up? I just. I don't want to Be here. I feel like everyone's staring at me. They really aren't. They are. And I don't blame them. Poor. The entire cricket team are refusing to play because of me. Me. Everyone hates me. I hate me. You made a mistake and you came clean. Apologized, owned it. That takes guts. People will see that eventually. Yeah, but what if they don't? What if that's the end of Ambridge cricket forever? It won't come to that. We'll start a new team. I'll play. Will you? If I have to. Thank you. How is the wedding? Oh, it's all right. Only all right? I mean, it's. It's lovely. They've obviously thrown a lot of money at it. So what's the problem? Well, I don't really know anyone. Apart from the bride, obviously. How do you know her again? At work. Oh, yeah. We used to do silver service together. A million years ago. And we just clicked. Kept in touch. Oh, well, have another champagne and go and start a conversation, you know? How do you know the bride and groom? Easy, easy. Are you gonna be all right? Yeah. Oh, Azra. Oh, my goodness. Is that cheesecake? Yes. Raspberry and pistachio. It looks sensational. Thanks. I am pretty pleased with it. Oh, there she is. Who? Charlotte Smith. Oh. Where? Here with Fallon. Well, good luck. Fool. I suppose I better go and mingle. See you later. Charlotte. Hi. I'm Lily Pargetta. It's so lovely to meet you. Hi, Lily. Lovely to meet you, too. So you've met Fallon, our other judge. Yeah, I recognise Charlotte off the telly. Introduced myself in the car park. Lily, this all looks great. I love the striped marquee and your outfit. Thank you. You look wonderful. The whole place is like a medieval village. Well, that's exactly what we're going for. Oh, sorry. This is Azra. Hi, Azra. Oh, hi. It's just so nice to meet you. As was entering this fantastic looking creation. Oh, well, in that case, I'd better keep my distance. Oh, I understand it's frowned upon for judges to fraternize with contestants. Yeah, absolutely. Charlotte. Oh, yes. People take these events very seriously. Oh, well, I'd better get this inside anyway. It's just so lovely to meet you, Charlotte. You too. Good luck. Now, let me take you two up to the hotel. Can I get you a cup of tea? Oh, yeah. Wouldn't say, oh, tea would be lovely. Great. This way. Oh, come off it, Ben. What? At least give the rest of us a fighting chance. That looks like a professional job. I was quite chuffed with mine till I saw yours. Don't blame me. This is Gran's. I'm just a pa. It's a work of art. Black Forest. Yep. So what do we do? Do we just put our bakes on the table? Yeah, yeah. Then you. You write on one of these labels to say what it is, but don't put your name on it. It's all anonymous. Yeah, yeah, yeah, of course. I remember now. So, you couldn't help me with this lid, could you, Ben? Yeah, sure. Wow, that looks great. I was a bit worried the raspberries on top might get a bit bashed thinking about it. I should have brought them separately. No, no, no, they look fine. You know, I think you're in with a chance here. You reckon? Well, even against Jill? Yeah, even. And don't forget, there's a first, second and third prize in each category. Still, there's a lot of good stuff here. Oh, look at that profiterole stack. That's Derek Fletcher. I know that because he came over and he warned me not to pinch one. I was quite offended, to be honest. Do I look like the kind of person who go around pilfering profiteroles? You must do. Oh, that lemon tart looks nice too. Yeah, I don't know who made that one. Fallon usually enters, but she's judging this year. I don't think we need to worry about those scones. They're my niece Rosie's. Oh, sorry. They're actually really impressive, considering a child made them. My mum helped. I'm just gonna stop talking. Yeah, probably best. Have you seen the veg table? The massive cabbage? It's fantastic, isn't it? It really is. I was a bit sniffy when Lily mentioned it to me, but it's a joyful thing, isn't it? The flour and produce, it's just so wholesome. So good for you. Oh, listen to me. I've lived in a village too long. I won't tell anyone. So, when are the judges due? About half an hour, I think. Someone will come round and tell us to get out before then. It's all deadly serious. You're making me nervous now. Don't be daft. It's busy, isn't it? Looks like there's still lots of people dropping off their entries. Yeah. Yeah. It's getting a bit hot in here as well, isn't it? Should we. Should we have a breather? There's a coffee stall set up on the lawn, I think. Good idea. Let me just turn my cheesecake, make sure it's showing its Best side. Come on. Oh, Lily. Oh, thank God for that. Come and play with me so I don't look so tragic. Do I look like someone who has time to play giant Snakes and Ladders? I literally haven't stopped since I last saw you. How's it all going? Oh, fine. I mean, the ceremony was lovely. We've had photos, drinks and everyone's really nice, but, you know, they all know each other. Well, it'll be easy to make conversation when you go in to sit down. What time is it? 20 past 2. Oh, no wonder I'm starving. Have you not had lunch? You're joking. I've barely had water. Champagne? Tempting, but I'll pass. I've got to go and see how the judges are getting on. I don't want to be breathing booze all over them. Why don't I get you some of the wedding food? I'll just pretend it's for me. No time. Sorry, what do you mean, wedding food? It hasn't been served yet, has it? When I was in the kitchen just now, the chef was still prepping. No, no, no, not the dinner. There's a buffet as well, apparently. I saw someone earlier with some quiche. She said there were some cakes and stuff too. Should I go and see if I can find it? A buffet a where? Lily, I think you better get back to the judging tent. Why? What's happened? A load of people just came in and started taking all the stuff. I think they might be guests from the wedding. Oh, the buffet. We thought they were contestants at first, but then loads more started arriving, all dressed up. No, no, no, no, no, no, no. Oh, dear. Oh, dear is right. Oh, poor Lily. Snakes and ladders. Ben. Yep. Go on, then. Please leave the vegetables. Yeah, they're not. I. I don't understand. I thought people were just, like, arranging their bakes, but it looks like they were eating them, dear. It is a bit of a mess. Oh, Charlotte Fallon, I am so sorry about this. What happened? Well, there's been a bit of a mix up. We've got a wedding on today and I am guessing some of the guests thought this was a buffet laid on for them? No, I'm afraid so. They've even taken the buttonhole, for goodness sake. Oh, gosh, they haven't. Well, I suppose when you're a few champagnes in and you stumble across a tent full of cakes, it's an easy mistake to make. Although you do wonder what they thought the giant veg was for. Apparently they thought it was Village Fate themed. I heard one of Them saying the category cards were a nice touch. Lily, I'm sorry. No, no, it's me who's sorry. I don't know what to say, Charlotte. I feel awful dragging you all this way only for it to turn out like this. I bet you've never been to such a chaotic event, have you? Well, I've certainly never experienced this particular issue before. No. Oh, well, good to know we're original. If a total disaster. Well, perhaps not a total disaster. Yes, you don't need to be kind. I'd be furious if I were you. Of course not. These things happen. And actually, most things have only been slightly nibbled. Yeah, that's true. There are lots of entries that we can still judge. But what about the buttonholes? And loads of the jams and chutneys have been swiped. They must have thought they were wedding favors. Would you believe? Well, we can't judge things that aren't here. But it's a shame not to give out some prizes. But it won't be fair. Oh, I'm going to have a riot on my hands. Another one. Well, this isn't your fault. I'm sure people will understand when we explain the mix up. I think Fallon's right. We should just judge the produce that is left. Yeah, that's all we can do. I suppose so. And my boss has just messaged to say we should have a show next week for anyone whose entry couldn't be judged perfect. Well, I don't know. It's pretty far from perfect. But it's a plan of sort of thoughts. Anyway, I better go and let people know. Are you all right to get started? Yeah, of course. You go. We know what we're doing, don't we, Charlotte? Absolutely. Okay, thanks. I'll back in a minute. Right. I suppose we just go table by table, then see what's left to judge. Yeah, Good plan. Azra, you all right? I can't find my cheesecake. Oh, dear. It was right here. It's gone. Well, hang on. I think this was the stand it was on. Yeah, it is. Azra, someone's eaten it. Look. There's one lone pistachio on this spoon. Someone has eaten all my cheesecake. It appears that some of the wedding guests mistook the entries for a buffet. Are you serious? And they've eaten my cheesecake before we had a chance to judge it. I'm so sorry, Azra. Oh, it's just I. I'd worked really hard on that and I did several trial runs just to get it exactly right. I'm Not a natural baker, you see, Charlotte. It's usually my husband. But anyway, I suppose it can't be helped. You know, in a way, the fact that the cheesecake is all gone sort of makes you the unofficial winner. How? Well, because it's the only baking entry that's been completely eaten, so although we can't taste it and judge it, it was clearly the winner amongst the wedding guests. You could always bake it again and enter it in the rescheduled show. Will you be judging that one, too? Oh, I doubt it. I'm afraid my weekends are fully booked for the foreseeable. Oh, well, I might not bother, then. No. Well, I suppose you don't need to. In our eyes, you've already won. Hasn't she, Fallon? Oh, yes. Well done, Azrah. Thanks very much. What's that? Is that a six? Yeah. Hello. There you go. You're up the ladder. Go on. Is it true Ruri's back? Yeah. Yeah, he's back. For a bit, anyway. How is he? He's good. Good. That's great. How's it going, Lily? Did you manage to sort it out? As much as it's possible to sort out a flower and produce show in which half the entries have been consumed or stolen. I've told them that anyone who wants to can enter a rescheduled show. And in the meantime, we'll give some prizes out for what's left. That sounds fine. Well, more than fine. It's a lot less than fine, but it's all I can do. Derek Fletcher was absolutely livid. I thought he was going to explode. Well, that's just Derek. Did any of Gran's Black Forest make it? Yes, I think so. It's getting rave reviews from wedding guests, too. I'll tell her. Although I can't promise she won't come straight down here to have words with whoever ate it. I'm so tense. Look at me. I'm actually shaking with the stress of it. Lily, listen to me. It's only a village show. People will understand. But they might have understood if I hadn't just owned up to secretly paying members of the cricket team. But I don't know if you've noticed, people around here don't really like me at the moment. So I can understand why this might be the final nail in the coffin. Oh, Lily. Champagne, please. Thank you. Right, I suppose better go and face the music. Right, I'll be off, then. I'll see you at home later, Lillian. I'll pick up some vegetables on my way to go with the salmon. Do you need anything else? Yeah, Tony. Now, remind me what you've got on this afternoon. About board meeting. Oh, yes. I thought you had a spring in your step. You're off to beat them all round the head with the results of the feasibility study. I will enjoy enlightening the dissenters with the news. Yes, as I knew all along, my plans are more than feasible. So? So we'll be going ahead. And anyone who doesn't like it can whistle. Whistle, Take a long walk off a short pier, whichever. More than feasible. It's a bit of a stretch though, isn't it? I thought the study wasn't keen on the vertical farm. Oh, I'm shelving that. Anyway, I only included it to pacify the farmers on the board. But everything else will get the green light, including the warehouse. You know, I'm rather looking forward to seeing Brown's face. Well, I wouldn't rub his nose in it too much if I were you. The board still have to agree it. They will. You seem very confident. Well, let's just say I've got a few ideas up my sleeve that might persuade them. What are you up to? Nothing. No, it's definitely something. I don't know what you mean. See you later. Bye. Alice. Hi, Justin. Where's he off to? Seems very chipper. Oh, just a board meeting. I know. Wouldn't get me going. But that's Justin for you. Oh, Paul was just telling me about the flower and produce show. Have you heard? Fallon told me earlier. What a shambles. I can't imagine what Mum's reaction would have been if one of her bakes had been eaten before the judging. Well, I can. Oh, you know, this time of year. Always makes me think of your mum. Well, I mean, I'm always thinking of her, you know. No, I know. Oh, she loved the autumn, the new term, the flower and produce. The harvest festival. Oh, no, that's this week, isn't it? Martha's first school harvest festival. I realized this morning I hadn't put it in my diary. Now, what day is it? Oh, no, you don't have to come to that. I wouldn't miss it for the world, darling. Anyway, I promised Martha. She was telling me all about it yesterday. Even gave me a preview of the harvest samba. Oh, she's so excited. It's all I've heard for the last week. Thanks, Auntie Lillian. It's on Thursday after school at St. Stephen's we'll be there. In that case, I'll make sure to save you a seat. Justin, the point is Whatever this feasibility study says, and obviously we'll all need to read it carefully, this is far from over. By all means, read it. It's all there in black and white. I will. But you only had to look round the table. See? You've still got a long way to go persuading people this is a good idea. Justin has already told us that he's abandoned the vertical farm idea. Well, I've stepped back from that. Yes. On the advice of the experts. I could have told you that was pie in the sky. Literally. I do think that the food storage facility has merit. Large scale warehouses like that are crucial for food security and so is food production. No, I'm sorry, Martin. You're not going to convince me that losing farmland to concrete is a good thing. Justin's ecological survey said as much and it's totally at odds with his rewilding plans. Not really. I want to rewild the land whilst providing a good quality food storage facility in Ambridge. You want to be careful, Justin, or we're all war. Let's not be too hasty. I'm sure Justin is keen to work with rather than against the board. Aren't you, Justin? Well, yes, to a point. That's good to hear. Because actually, I did hear a rumor that you were looking for land elsewhere. Is that true? It might be. So you acknowledge that the BL estate might not be the most suitable site for your plans. Your considering withdrawing the proposal altogether. In that case, why not put us out of our misery? Why put us all through this charade? If I might get a word in edgeways. It is true that I am considering a land purchase elsewhere, if necessary. However, if that proved to be the best option in order to fund such a purchase, I would of course have to sell my BL shares. Sell your shares? What, entirely? Yes, Martin. Lock, stock and barrel. The lasagna won't be long. That's all right, isn't it? Oh, yes, perfect. I'm looking forward to it. Oh. Oh, good. It was Martha's idea, so I went with it. And I Woke up at 4 o' clock this morning and thought, what if Fury's gone vegan and hasn't told me? Oh, no danger of that. Oh, it's just been that long since I saw you in person. Busy lives, eh? Well, I've missed you. So has Martha, apparently. She's told her whole class that her Uncle Rui's coming to teach. Well, I'm honored. It's lovely to be back. Not just in Ambridge, but, you know, here with you two pretty different to the last time we saw each other. Yeah. And if you don't mind me asking, why are you back? Sorry, I. No, I don't mean. It's not that it's not lovely to see you. Obviously it is. But I just. I wondered if everything was okay in London. Well, London's London. You know, it's fine. It's great. But? Well, I wasn't doing much since I finished my placement, and then Kate rang and said dad was struggling, so it just made sense to come back, you know, make myself useful. Yeah, well, things have been pretty hard going. A bit worried about this board meeting this afternoon. Hope Justin doesn't try another one of his tricks. This is Justin we're talking about. I know. So do you know how long you're gonna be sticking around? Not sure. You're trying to get rid of me already? No, very much not. I mean it. I couldn't be more pleased that you're here. You know, when things were bad, I never imagined that things like this would be possible. You coming over to have dinner with me and Martha. Me cooking for you. You and Martha playing swing ball in the garden. I'll never take it from granted. Any of it. Me neither. Sorry. I was a while at the bar. Jazz has strong armed me into sponsoring him for this swim he's doing in the lakes. Well, thanks, Martin. See, the problem is, I have no idea whether to take him seriously or not. Jazza. No, Justin, he could be just threatening to sell his shares to try to frighten us into giving the nod to his rewilding escapade. Well, let's hope he is. Because if he's serious, this could be disastrous. Well, that depends who buys them. True. You know, I'm sure existing shareholders have first right of refusal. I need to check the shareholders. No, no, I think you're right. Still, that's not an option for me at the moment. And I doubt Annabelle would consider it. I gather she's just invested heavily in Shires. Yeah, so unless you're feeling flush. Not that flush. I don't think we should panic too much yet. He's got to be bluffing, hasn't he? Honestly, I really don't know. Nothing that man does surprises me. Justin will be banking on us all thinking better the devil you know. I think we should sit tight for a while. Call his bluff right back at him. So I see Martha's letting you have a break from swing pool. I literally had to beg. She's really good on that thing. I know it's pretty Lethal, isn't it? I keep getting bopped on the head by it. She was telling me all about her friends at school. Max and Reuben and Connor and Florence. I couldn't keep up. I know. Every time I ask her who she's played with, it's another name. I don't know if that's exactly a good thing or not. Oh, it sounds like she's settling in really well. Yeah, I hope so. I know you were worried about it last time we spoke. Yeah, but so far so good. I mean, we're only a week in, but she's enjoying it. I feel a bit stupid for having been so worried about it. Oh, no, it's only natural. Well, thanks for humoring me. You know, it's very sweet of you to keep up with your weekly check ins. My what? Oh, no, I wanted to. Well, as long as you know, you don't have to. I mean, I'm. I'm fine now. I'm going to meetings. I'm seeing Lisa regularly. Did I tell you I've put my name down to be a buddy myself in the future? Oh, really? Yeah. I mean, I have to do some training first. I'm really looking forward to it. You're doing great. I know that. I mean, anyone can see it's amazing. Thanks. But that doesn't. I mean, I'd still like to keep calling every week if that's okay. It's fine. I like it. I'm just saying that you don't need to. No, no, but for a long time I. For a long time I felt like I very much did need to ring you every week. Well, actually I wanted to ring you more than once a week, but because the time in between the calls was awful, I didn't stop worrying about you. No, no, don't. I don't want you to feel bad. You know, it wasn't your fault. You were ill. I didn't understand how ill till you came to stay with me in London. But you were so sad. You were drinking so much. I know. I remember this one day coming back to the flat and you were out cold, totally passed out. But when I first walked into the room and saw you, I thought you would. I mean, you weren't obviously, but I think it made me realize that you could be. You might be. You had so little self control. It was terrifying. And after my mum and Jenny, I didn't think. I didn't think I could cope with losing you as well. I don't believe this. Justin. What? All these silly games. They rub people up the wrong ways. I'm not playing games. I mean it. I believe in this project and. And I'll do whatever it takes to make it happen. If that means selling my shares and setting up on my own, so be it. I can imagine Brian's reaction. Oh, yes, lots of huffing and puffing. I think they were quite shocked, actually. They will have been. Thanks. I'm rather surprised myself, darling. Well, to be quite honest, I hadn't planned to go that far. Not today. But then Martin said he'd heard that I'd been looking at land and. And I needed to pull the rug from under him. I still can't work out how he'd have known that. You haven't been talking to anyone, have you, darling? Got better things to gossip about than your business deals. I can barely keep up with them myself. Well, anyway, it doesn't matter. It would have been common knowledge soon enough. There are a few land auctions coming up soon. We could. We could have a day out to a land auction. Romantic. All right, then. As long as it's not Thursday. Oh. Why? What's Thursday? Martha's Harvest festival. You don't need me for that, do you? Yes, I do. I said we'd both be there. I mean it, Justin. That little girl is short one grandmother, so the least she can expect is her great aunt and uncle stepping in to cheer her on. Fine. I'll keep it free. Good. I'm really sorry, Alice. I didn't want to upset you. It's the last thing I want. I was just trying to explain. No, I just. I can't bear that I put you through that. I knew you were worried about me, but to hear you say it like that. I'm sorry. No, stop apologizing. You're better now. I can see that. I am. I really am. You've done so well. I'd never have got here without you. I know. I owe you. All of you. If I hadn't had the support of my family, I don't know what would have happened. All those phone calls, just checking in, talking about nothing, reminding me that I had people out there who were thinking of me. It was nothing. It wasn't nothing. It was everything. All right, it was everything. Just stop going on about it, okay? Now, when's that lasagna ready? I'm starving. Well, go and have a look. But, Rory. What? Come here. I mean it. Thank you. Anytime. Will it all fit in? Yeah, just about. I mean, better if we had the van. But as long as Jaz hasn't brought too Much stuff. Where is he? Any road. Two o', clock, we said. Ed. What the heck is that? My paddle board. Well, no, my paddle board. I borrowed it. Half Rex. Here's the pump to blow up. And he gave me these flippers and all, just in case, like, all the gear and. No idea. Something like that. I'm never going to fit that line. How many bags you got? One for me, one for Trace. She's getting the train up early. She doesn't want to be carting a load of stuff with her. We're going to stay on tomorrow night. See, we break away. Well, it's very nice, but. Jazz. Aye. Are you going to be allowed to go in on a paddle board? Isn't it? Well, a sponsored swim. Stop worrying, hen. I spoke to Jenna and she said anything goes. There's going to be paddle boards, dinghies, the lot. Oh, she just wants as many people in the water as possible. And Ash's memory. Fair enough. Yeah, sounds lovely, actually. Well, I'll be there on the bank, cheering you both on. Tracy, I know she's going to do a picnic. Nice, Roy. I'll give up. I'm not getting anything else in there. The paddle board will just have to go on the back seat with you. Jaz. It's been decided I'm in the back. Has it? Well, I'm sorry, Jazz. First come, first serve. Plus I get travel take in the back and no one wants that. Fair enough. As long as you stick on this playlist. Is this what I think it is? Right? Certainly is. I thought I'd digitize the back catalog so we could listen to a few of the old songs. Put us in the mood. Not sure about that. It was pretty painful last time. Get away with you. This is a dross road trip. So there's one thing and one thing only going on that stereo. Maybe we'll get out of Ambridge first and see how we feel once we're on the side. Other open road, eh? Azra. Azra. Oh, hi, Lily. Sorry, I was listening to a podcast. Just trying to decompress after a frazzling day. I know that feeling. I'm sorry to interrupt. No, don't worry. I just saw you and wanted to apologize again for Sunday. It's fine. I wouldn't blame you if you were mad or. No, not at all. I got to meet Charlotte Smith and actually, she told me I was the people's winner, which is good enough for me. Oh, so you aren't tempted to enter the replay this Sunday? Is that going ahead? Yep. I know who can be bothered? Well, quite. Dane and Oliver are worried we'll have a riot on our hands if we don't. So how will it even work? I mean, you can't grow new flowers in a week. And what about the veg that was eaten? Are people going to enter their second biggest cube cucumber? All good questions and ones I have put to Oliver and Dane. It's not ideal, but they think it's the fairest way. I mean, between you and me, I think they just want to get Derek Fletcher off their backs. He's absolutely furious that his profiterole tower was ransacked before Charlotte Smith got to it. I see. Well, count me out. I've done my baking for the year. Fair enough. In that case, not. How would you feel about being a judge? Lily, are you serious? I know, I know, but we'd really appreciate it. I'm going to ask Fallon as well. Oh, please say you'll do it. No, I would, but what I. There's this. I can't think of an excuse fast enough. Okay, go on, then. Thank you so much. Well, that's one thing sorted. I can't tell you what a headache it's been. All the complaints. And then having to arrange the whole thing again for Sunday. I could really do without it. Sorry for owning. It's just everything feels quite tricky at the moment. Yeah, I heard about the cricket team walking out. Everybody has. I'm sure it'll blow over. You sound like my mum. Oh, she's right. People are angry. But that will fade in time. They'll come round or they won't. And I will forever be the reason that Ambridge doesn't have a cricket team. I can take or leave cricket myself. Oh, well, that's all right. But even if that did happen, you wouldn't be the reason. The players refusing to play would be the reason. And anyway, I'm sure it wouldn't be long before someone else started up a new team. It's just so humiliating. And then the flour and produce was a disaster. Well, that wasn't your fault. Wasn't it? I was in charge on the day I knew there were two events happening. I should have been on top of it and I wasn't. You're being very hard on yourself in the grand scheme of things. But that's just it. I don't have a grand scheme. I don't even have a vague plan. I'm just drifting along, making a mess of things. I'm only working in Grey Gables because I. I don't Know what I want to do with my. My life. And in the meantime, it's literally passing me by. I know what you need. What? Follow me. If we're quick, we might just catch it. Three pints of local cider. Oh, cheers. Cheers, Fallon. That looks the business. Yeah, it does, doesn't it? He insisted on me setting up a tab. I did try and say we were taking it easy on account of the spin tomorrow, but I don't think it got through. He's a funny fell, ain't he? Yeah. Yeah. Did he tell you the place is haunted? Yeah. So don't worry too much. If you hear a bump in the night. That'll be Dorothy. Dorothy? Yeah. Apparently she was the landlady back in the 60s. She was born in Buttermere and died here. How did you not hear this story? Too busy telling me about the beer festival next week. And then I said I'd come back for it, just to shut him up. You get loads of people at him around here. Oh, you two came up here camping back in the the day? Yeah. Without a tent. A bit mad or that. Looking back, just taking off and shaking. Or was it joy riding? No, we never joy rode all the way to the lakes. We were pretty wild, but off our faces the whole time, wandering up mountains. No wonder we live to tell the tale. I can't imagine Brad or Chelsea doing anything like that now. Tracy would lose her mind. Yeah. I mean, fair enough. Was pretty mad. It was kind of great, though, wasn't it? I mean, we had nothing going for us back then. But it didn't feel like that at the time, did it? Nah. We thought we could do anything we wanted. We had shaked into the A weight and jumped the festival fence. Remember that? It wasn't always great, though. You nearly died, Jasper Allen. Well, you did. We played that private party at the ball. And then. Yeah, I found you collapsed in the toilet. You two trying to kill the mood? Sorry. I was thinking about it the other day and I just found myself. Oh, it was bad, wasn't it? I mean, you really could have. Yeah, it was awful. Hi. Those two weeks while we waited for you to come round. We were terrified. And I was so angry with you, Jaz. And I told you not to take that stuff. I remember we had a big rower. But it was nearly the end of dross. Not nearly. Not quite. Well, for a while it was. We didn't know if Jaz would ever be the same again. Once you recovered. You were so depressed. I wrote some pretty good songs. There were some pretty Dark lyrics and then I cleaned up my act. Oh well, we all did in a way. Maybe it was the Meeking us. It could easily have been very different though. When you're 17, you think you're invincible, don't you? Then you get older and you realize you're anything but. And I know it's depressing aging, but really that's the aim, isn't it? Getting old when you think about the alternative, eh? Still a lot to get your head around though. No, I know what you mean. I get a shock some days when I look in the mirror and see a 40 year old woman staring back. I mean, who's she? In my head I'm still 17. Same back then we thought we were going to live forever, didn't we? This was a great idea. Who knew that an ice cream could make everything better? You know, you should prescribe these on the nhs. Yeah, I'm not sure that would be in line with current healthy eating guidance. Oh yeah, but I agree with you. A cone with strawberry sauce and sprinkles definitely has healing properties. So you don't think you'll stay at Grey Gables long term then? No, not long term. But the problem is I have no idea what I want to do. So for now I'm stuck there. And I mean, it's fine. I don't love it, but the people are nice. You're obviously good at it. Well, I used to think so, but lately, I don't know, things just keep going wrong. The flour and produce obviously, but also the tug of war at the fate was a disaster. No one has any idea what anyone else is doing. So the place keeps running into problems. It's the same in hospitals. That's worrying. Maybe it's just the ones I trained at. It might have all changed now, but you see it all the time. Different departments don't talk to each other. It causes all kinds of problems. Lots of management issues, surely? Yeah, absolutely. I used to wish we could have a kind of job swap for a while. I think if you could really experience what each other's roles involved, you'd be able to work much better as a team. You know, that's not a bad idea. It would never work, not in a hospital anyway. People are specialists in their areas. You'd need to employ cover to keep everything going. And that will cost money. And of course that's another pressure. True, but it might work in a hotel. I suppose it might. I mean, we're not dealing with life and death as much as some clients might like to think. So maybe I'll mention it today. Although if it happens, don't tell Zina, but I suggested it. I can't imagine she'll be too pleased if she gets moved off reception to strip beds or something. Don't worry. I doubt Jane will go for it on my say. So. Sorry. I don't mean to moan. It's just not what you want to be doing. I get it. It's okay to feel like you want more from life. Maybe it's time to think about what that might be. I reckon if my younger Sel could see me now, you'd see I should have learned to swim. Then I could have done Ash proud. Was a paddle board. And flippers would have loved you paddle boarding. Aye, probably. Ah, I reckon young Jazza would be pretty happy with the way I've turned it. Still the same as ever I was. I don't think my younger self would think much of me. I mean, I've settled down, started my own business. It's all a bit conventional, isn't it? But, you know, I think that's what I always wanted. Underneath family, home of my own. What about you, Fallon? Sorry, what? What would your younger self say if she could see you now? I think she'd be disappointed. Huh. No, I think she wouldn't recognize me. Who is this person who's so scared of life that she won't even join in a sponsored swim in a dead friend's memory? You're not scared of life. Oh, you're afraid of water because you nearly drowned when the car you were in crashed into a river. Yeah, but I don't want that to be like the defining event of my life. Well, it isn't. But it happened. And something like that, it does change. Yeah. Yeah, but I, I don't want it to make me too frightened to properly live. Life is passing us by, second by second, minute by minute. And once it's gone, we can't ever get it back. But do I really want to stand on the side of the lake tomorrow while you two go in and swim for Ash? Jaz can't even swim and he's doing it. I'm an idiot. Take any notice of me. Fallon, you don't have to do anything that you don't want to do. Well, I, I, I do want to do it. And I'm going to do it. Yeah, I'm scared. But I'll have my mates with me, won't I? I. Of course you will. If you're sure. Yeah, I am. I think I am. No, I'M going to do it for Ash. I'm gonna swim. At the BBC, we go further so you see Clearer with a subscription to BBC.com you get unlimited articles and videos, hundreds of ad free podcasts and the BBC News Channel streaming live 24. 7 from less than a dollar a week for your first year. Read, watch and listen to trusted independent journalism and storytelling. It all starts with a subscription to BBC.com find out more@BBC.com unlimited. In Turkey, if you're willing to take a detour, you'll discover the food even social media hasn't got to yet. From Michelin stars and wine in Ula to traditional recipes and the home of baklava in the East. Discover the culinary capital of Gaziantep and talk to the locals. Every dish has its own story, flavors, experimentation and tradition. Turkia has it all. Plan your detour@goturkia.com. ah, good morning, Allan. How are you? Morning, Jim. Bit stressed, honest with you. I have a parishioner visit in 10 minutes and I've just realised I've run out of tea bags. Oh, dear, that won't do. Over there. Just by the Sunday school notice board. Oh, great, thanks. How are you getting on? Must be a bit of a different setup than you used to. Very different, yes. But I have to admit it's all going a lot better than expected. In fact, I'm actually enjoying myself. Oh, well, the. Very pleased to hear it. Were you not sure about relocating to St Stephen's then? Not sure at all, no. All right. I know some atheists appreciate religious buildings from an architectural and historical perspective, but I've never been completely comfortable in a church. Right. So I was worried, you know, that I'd feel out of sorts and distracted by my surroundings. But you haven't. No, I haven't. Quite the opposite, in fact. It's been a very interesting and informative morning so far. Oh? How so? The conversation, mainly. Oh, yes, I've had some very interesting exchanges indeed. Sounds intriguing. What about? Oh, all sorts of. And you think that's to do with being in the church, do you? I do, yes. It's turned out to be a rather excellent talking point. Very good. Oh, excuse me. Oh, no, this Sunday. Bad news? No, no, no. It's just Lily asking if I'm free to judge the rerun of the Flour and produce show this Sunday. Oh, yes, I heard about that. Apparently Fallon was down to do it, but she's away seeing Harrison. So. Can I step in? Yes, I suppose I can, just about. But there goes my bike ride. It's a tough gig, isn't it? The flour and produce. It's not the worst one I've been asked to do. No, I mean generally. Being a vicar, you're always on call. I suppose I am, yes. Did you always want to do it? Not always, no. Quite a long while I thought, I want to be an accountant. Well, look, actually, Jim, can we do this in other times? I'd love to talk to you about all this. It's just I've got about 30 seconds to put the kettle on and shovel down some cereal before my meeting. Of course. Don't let me keep you from your parishioners. That will be £3 50, please. Oh, it's a bit chilly, isn't it? Even in a wetsuit, freezing. Well, Jenna reckons we'll be ready for kickoff in about 10 minutes. Where's Jaz? Over there with Trace. What does he look like wearing those flippers? Yeah, I know. Can't take him anywhere. I did say they might get in the way of his paddle board, but he was having none of it. Ah, he'll be fine. Yeah. Yeah, he will. So will you. Yeah. Alan. What? It's not too late to change your mind. You don't have to go in if you don't want to. No, I'm doing it. Okay. Yeah. Good. Well, remember, you can stop at any time. I know there's the marked out lanes there for the 50 lengths, but you don't have to do that if you don't want to. Just do your own thing. No, I want to do the 50. Okay. Well, you know, if you get into trouble, there are rowing boats out there with us. Just blow your whistle to attract their attention. Yeah, yeah, I know. I will. Sorry. No, no, no, it's good. Thanks for looking out for me. Oh, no. What is it? I knew it was too early to put the wetsuit on. I think I need a wee in it. No way. I'll back in a minute. No, thank you, Mrs. Perry. I'm always happy to wrangle the finer points of faith, as it were. Oh, and. Hello, Lillian. Is it just the bread? Yes, please. Sounded like an interesting conversation. It was. You know, this morning there's been a revelation. I've learned so much about what people believe and why. Actually, that does sound interesting. Just being in this environment seems to invite people to open up. That will be £1 60, please. Thank you, darling. Well, is that it? I think so. Well, I don't know whether to be offended. Why should you be offended? Well, I was waiting for you to engage me in an existential debate. Oh, I'm sorry. Please forgive me. Are you a churchgoer, Lillian? Thank you for asking, Jim. Well, yes and no. Well, how does that work? Well, I used to go with Mum. You know, christenings, weddings, funerals. Obviously, Easter Sunday, Christmas Eve. I'm coming to Martha's Harvest Festival tomorrow, but otherwise. Not really. Not if I can help it. Well, of course you can help it. If you don't want to go, don't go. But Mum was always religious, so I'd be there for her, really. And I'd always put money into the fundraisers and what have you. You know, I suppose you could say I'm Christian for show, but why do you need to pretend to be Christian? Atheists can be good people too, you know. Yes, I know that. Religion doesn't have the monopoly on goodness. True. Do you believe in God? Now you're asking. Well, I don't think I do, no. But I'm happy for other people to believe in whatever they like as long as they aren't hurting anyone. Does. Does Alan know you're trying to talk people out of their faith whilst you're selling them biscuits? Ed, why have you stopped? I'm just trying to get my breath back. I'm just shattered. I'm not surprised where you set off like that. What happened to slow and steady? I think it was just the adrenaline. Use your swim bubble. I don't know what the matter is with me. Just breathe. It's harder than it looks swimming in an open lake like this. The breeze is making it really choppy. Oh, you seem to be doing all right. Classic tortoise. Are you all right to carry on? Maybe not, actually. Is that okay? Will you be. Will you be all right? Yeah, of course. Yeah. No, I'll be. I just don't want to let you down. It's absolutely fine. Ed, look. There's the boat. Yes. Hello. Over here. Oh, she's coming to pick you up. Just sit tight. What, are you not coming to? No, I'm all right. I think I'm gonna finish. What, on your own? Yeah, I'll be fine. I'm coming with you. You will not get in the boat. I mean it, Ed. I'll see you back on the bank in half an hour. Hello, Ruby. How are you doing? Ruby, come here. Oh, I am so sorry, Alan. She's just excited to be off the lead. It's the first chance I've had to walk her today. Oh, don't apologize. It's always lovely to see you. Isn't it, Ruby? Oh, I'd love to have a dog of my own. You know, you should get one. Well, it wouldn't be fair, sadly. Are you too busy? Afraid so. Usher and I like ships in the night at the moment. Today was actually supposed to be a quieter day. It's not panning out that way. And you've got the Harvest festival tomorrow. The one. Oh, the school concert. Yes, yes, of course. You know, we're all really looking forward to it. Well, good. Me too. I'm sorry, Lillian, I've just had an unexpectedly busy morning. A couple of theological questions, actually. Oh? Yeah, A man dropped in to see me to ask how can God be both transcendent and imminent. Okay. Which is? Well, it's not that I'm not interested in that. I am, of course. Yeah, I'm sure. I know I sound defensive. It just took me by surprise a bit, I suppose. And then I bumped into a woman just now who said she'd like to come and see me about arranging some multi faith events. Good idea. Well, yes, yes, good idea. But coming off the back of the fellow this morning, it felt a bit like criticism. No, I suppose people just want to contribute. Yeah, but two people in one day. I mean, I can't be doing that great a job, can I? Maybe they're all talking about it. How to put a rocket up the vicar. I don't think so. I'm sorry, I'm being pathetic. I think I need a coffee. Oh, Alan, I'm very confident your congregation and the wider community for that matter, appreciate what a good job you're doing. So you think people have been talking? Not exactly, but. Well, I think maybe having the shop in the church is providing an opportunity for some, well, ecclesiastical musings. Ecclesiastical musings? What are you talking about? Jim. Jim. Oh, Jim. You know, I knew he was up to something. I don't think he means any harm. He's just enjoying himself. I'm sure he is. And in the meantime I'm having to field all manner of speculative queries. Ah, I've got enough on without this. Fallon, over here. Come on, quick. Get that round you. Keep warm. Come here. Well done. Thanks. No, no, I mean it. That wasn't easy. No. Oh, I'm so sorry, fella. What for? I just couldn't carry on. Stupid folk for the setting off at such a lick. Felt like my muscles suddenly stopped working. Oh, no, it's fine. Are you all right now? Yeah, yeah, fine, yeah. Just bit shaky is all. I feel awful. I should have been there for you. Hey, you were there for me. I'd never have gone in at all if you hadn't been there. You did so well. How was it? Being out there? Yeah, it was. It was funny. Fine. I'm happy that I managed it. You know, for Ash, it was just. Oh, being out there in the middle of the lake. I suddenly felt all of it all at once, you know? Jazza all of those years ago. Then the crash and what it felt like when I thought I might not get out of the car. And Ash. And then we're never gonna see him again. And what a beautiful thing it is that all his friends and family. Family are here in this lake today. And for him, it's just so lovely and so sad. And I wish we thought to find him before he died. Yeah. Yeah, me too. I think Ash should be really pleased we were here today, though. Yeah. Yeah. Even with me having to get rescued. And Jaz on his paddle board. Especially with Jazz on his paddle board. Where is he? We should get a photo before. Before he gets changed. Oh, yeah, yeah, good idea. No, he's over there up the top with Tracy and Jenna, still in his flippers. Come on. What a day, hey? Oh, yeah. What a day. What a life. Yep, What a life. Oh, hello, Alan. Lillian. Justin. Nice to see you. Hello, Alan. I told you they wouldn't have started yet. What's all this? Are you collecting food donations? Alan, we didn't realize. No, that's the shop. I told you it had opened. We are actually collecting donations, though. There's a box at the other door. Look, we're about to start if you want to find somewhere. Although it looks like you might have to stand completely packed out. No, we'll be fine at the back, won't we, Lilia? We won't see anything at the back. Oh, just then. Look, there's Alice. She's waving us over. I'm fine here, thank you. She said you say it was a seat. Come on. Good. Enjoy. Auntie Lillian. Justin. I was looking out for you. Come on, you can squeeze in here with us. Well, I'm not sure. It doesn't look like this room. Oh, there's loads of room. Watch up. Dad. Where's Chris? Oh, yes, yes, I see him with Susan and Neil over there. Hello, darling. Well, they won't see much from behind the font. Well, why don't they come and sit here and we'll go behind font? Well, there isn't time anyway. I don't want to sit behind the font. It's about to start. So oh. Oh, look at Mar. What you dress as carrot, apparently. Oh, isn't she adorable? Well, they all look great. Oh, I love the broccoli. Sit down, Justin. Yes, yes, come on. No, I. I don't think we'll fit. Yeah, it is a bit tight, Alice. We can scooch up. I'm already scooched. Oh, come on, a bit more, please. Thank you, darling. Look, there's plenty of room. You get in there next to Brian, Justin and I'll go on the end. Oh, how can't I go on the end? No, I want to take some photos. Go on. All right. Hello, Brian. Justin. I will just remind you that we are here to support Martha. Well, why else would we be here? So I don't want to hear a word about bl. What do you take me for? I won't answer that. What's all this? Don't tell me Adam's got you doing some actual farming. I'll have you know I've just single handedly fixed this gate. Look at that motion. I take it all back. You're more of a farmer than I am. I'm about to check on the ewes, so come with me if you like. All right, I'm finished here. So how's it going? Honestly, it's been a tough week. I mean, it's great to see everyone, but Adam made it sound like he needed me to help with a bit of paperwork and I get here and he's got me feeding the deer, fixing gates and there's loads to do on the admin side. I haven't stopped aching all over. What's this muscle in your shoulder here? That's your rotator cuff. It's a group of four muscles. Kills and I'm knackered. Need a bath. That's a shame. Why? I was going to ask if you wanted to go for a drink tonight. Just the bull. You know what? I think I can manage that if you have a little nap first. We know that Harvest Festival is when we come together to thank God for the abundance of food that we're all able to enjoy. And to think about the farmers who work hard to make sure we have enough food to eat. And you're listening to this, Justin, because you could do with hearing it. Gratitude for the labour of farmers, the abundance of food. Absolutely. Particularly at this time of international food insecurity. You're putting words in his mouth. Alan didn't mention food insecurity. He's probably been doing the same harvest festival salmon for the last 10 years. That doesn't mean it isn't pertinent. Dad, stop talking. Yes, sorry, sorry. Just tell me one thing. Are you really planning to sell your shares or is this just blackmail, pure and simple? Oh, no, I mean it. But why, when you know how risky it is for the future of the land? Dad. Sorry, sorry. Alice and John. No, I don't want to hear it. Just go. Go. Yes. Get out. I don't know. I mean it, dad. Bo n or I'll drag you out myself. You are not going to ruin this for Martha and you, Justin. Well, what did I do? You know damn well Alan's looking over. All right. Yes. Excuse me. Honestly, they're worse behave than the kids. Auntie Lillian. Shut up. Sorry. And to live in harmony with what God has created. I hope you're proud of yourself. Of course not. But I do rather think a mountain was made out of a molehill. Don't say that to Alice. Now, where's Brian? Loitering among the graves. Oh, here he is. Brian, what on earth were you thinking? Alice is furious. Yes, I can imagine. I mean, is Martha all right? Well, oblivious. Thankfully, Alice and Chris are inside making a fuss over. Well, there you are then. No harm done or no sense to you. Honestly, you should be ashamed. A pair of grown adults bickering and sniping. I was mortified. You're not the only one, Lillian. Alan. Alan, I can only apologize. I have never in all my years at St Stephen's seen such an embarrassing, unacceptable display from members of the congregation. Hear, hear. All right, Lillian. Those children have been rehearsing for this performance for weeks. And their efforts were very nearly ruined by your selfish actions. Oh, come on, Alan. It was relatively minor scuffle, nothing more. I think the word you're looking for, Justin, is sorry. Oh, well, obviously I'm sorry. Yeah. The only obvious thing about your behavior is that you care very little about those around you. Well said. Both of you. Excuse me. Is that Paul at the bar? Oh, yeah. Shall I say if he wants to join us? Hang on. Or is he too much of a yokel for you now as well? No. Well, all right, yeah, he's a touch, but. No, no, no, it's not that. It's just. I don't know. I feel like it was a bit awkward last time I saw it. That was ages ago, though. Dad's 80th. We barely spoke. Is he still with that boring boyfriend? Nope. Right. No, they split up ages ago. How come? No idea. Maybe Paul decided he was a bit boring too. Good for Paul. Look, he's on his own, it's more awkward if I don't shout him over. Oh, Paul. Oh, alright. Ben. Hi, Rory. Good to see you. Yeah, yeah, you too. How's things, mate? Oh, yeah, you know, I'm supposed to be meeting Josh for the quiz, but he's been delayed and apparently there's no quiz. Well, join us then. Oh, okay. That's. Yeah, fine by me. Great. Well, I was just about to get a drink. Do you two want the same again? Yeah, great, thanks. Won't be a minute. What are you playing at? Nothing. It would have been weird not to invite him over. You always liked Paul, didn't you? Yeah, but. So what's the big deal? Tea? Sparkling water? No, thank you, darling. I won't stay. I just wanted to see how you are. Oh, furious, understandably. I'm livid myself. These stupid men. Yeah, but they aren't stupid, are they? They just don't care enough to put their differences aside for Martha. Well, if it helps, I think they both regret having lost control like that. Brian particularly. What good is that? The damage is done. How is Martha? She's fine for now. But what about tomorrow? Oh, it'll all have blown over by tomorrow. Will it? Well, all the parents have been gossiping about Martha's grandad having a fight in the church. I mean, it wasn't a fight. And the kids will all come in talking about it. Hopefully not. Oh, I am sorry, Alice. It shouldn't have happened. Oh, no, it's not your fault. No, but if I hadn't brought Justin along, I should have known better. A man's a liability. I won't argue with that. But it's dad I'm fed up with. He knows how worried I was about Martha coming up to school from nursery and then he goes and does something like this. What, you said that to Brian? Yep. Brave. Well, someone needs to tell him. I said, I can't believe he let someone like that slip through his fingers. Farm managers like Stella don't come along very often. I heard it was less letting her slip through his fingers and more sort of sending her package. Don't. I honestly don't know what he's thinking. He's angry with Justin, I get that. But Stella did nothing wrong. Wait, so Stella's helping at Brookfield now? Yeah, yeah, she's applying for other jobs, but it's good to have her around while it lasts. Well, you want to tell that to Josh? He reckons she's got her feet under the table. I told him he was being ridiculous. Yeah, he is. Ridiculous. Stella's been great. She's not interested in Brookfield. Oh, well, you know Josh. I sometimes think he enjoys being annoyed. He definitely does. Where is he anyway? Oh, he messaged to say he'd collapsed in front of the tv. It's a good job I bumped into you two, isn't it? Oh, we're keeping you up. Sorry, I didn't realize how tired I was. Well, we're all tired tired. Literally everyone in this pub is tired. I don't know, they look pretty lively over there. Is that Sabrina Thwaite? Yep. And they're drinking shots. Why aren't we drinking shots? Because it's a Thursday night and we're in the Bull. It's also past my bedtime. What's all this? You drag me out for a drink and then you bail at 9 o'? Clock? It's quarter past, actually. I'm up at 6. Anyway, you've got Paul, you've got. You're not up at six, are you? No, no, I'm never up before eight. Well, fine, you can go. You'll be jealous when you hear that we were drinking shots with Sabrina Thwaite. I'll just have to take that risk. Right. Have a good night, mate. We aren't really going to be drinking shots with Sabrina Thwaite, are we? No. I wouldn't say no to a gin and tonic though. Me too, actually. Alright, well, I'll go to the bar when the queue dies down. No rush. We haven't finished these yet. It's nice to see you. It's nice to see you too. I didn't know you were coming back. I didn't know I was coming back. So you just woke up one morning and you were in Ambridge? Yeah, something like that. I'm just helping dad out for a bit. Right. So how are you? Yeah, yeah, good. You know Ben said you broke up with what's his name? Etienne. That's it. Yeah, ages ago. Oh, sorry. No, no, don't be. It was very much for the best. Are you seeing anyone else? No. I haven't had the headspace for a relationship, to be honest. I'm actually in a really good place, you know, just enjoying going out, meeting people. Oh, same. Right. Not that Felphersham is anything compared to London, but I'm having fun. So where's good to go? Don't. What? I'm not going to sit here listing provincial gay bars. You're used to going out on these ends. No, no, I wasn't. I was just thinking we could go and get a cocktail it is only quarter past nine. The night is young and so are we. So shall I book us a taxi? Unless you've miraculously learned how to drive. No chance. I'm born to be driven. And anyway, I've had two pints. Well, I thought you were getting the gins in, but let's stay here for one more. It's still early. All right. Don't go anywhere. I won't. Hello. Hello. Oh, I forgot to close the curtain. Sorry. It is extremely bright in here. Shame we never made it to Felphersham. I don't know. I think it all worked out quite well in the end. Do you? Yeah. Well, do you not? Oh, yeah. Yeah. I just wanted to make sure we're, you know, that you're. I don't know. Why can't I string a sentence together? Are we okay? Very okay. Bit cramped. Single bed. We managed. Yeah. Yeah, we did. Oh, no. It's my dad. Oh, gosh, it's 20 past eight. He'll be wondering where I am. We're supposed to be finishing this seed order for the autumn planting winter wheat and stuff this morning. Oh, God. I better go. Okay. Sorry to rush off. I didn't realize the time. No, no, it's, it's fine. It's just Josh will be coming out the bathroom any minute now and Lily's around too, I think. Oh, yeah, good point. Maybe I'll. How am I gonna get out of here? Don't panic. Why don't you wait here and I'll go and see what's what. I might even be able to sneak you a coffee. Oh, that would be amazing. And when the coast's clear, you can make your escape. Okay. I better see what my dad wanted. Sure. Won't be long. Alice. Dad. What are you doing here? I wanted to talk to you. I called around the house, but you'd already left. I often come in early when Martha's with Chris. Oh, I didn't think. How are you? Busy. Well, I won't keep you. I, I, I just wanted to apologize. I apologize. Did you get my messages? Yes. You're still angry? Yep. Darling. Darling, I really am sorry. I. I feel awful about what happened. I'm sure you do. So will you accept my apology? No. I mean, I could say I accept it, but it wouldn't be true. I'm still angry, dad. You knew how worried I was about Martha starting school. Yes, but she's done really well. I mean, you was saying only last week she goes in without a backward glance. Yes, but who knows how long that will last. Now her grandfather has made her a laughing stock. Dad, you were thrown out of the harvest festival for fighting in front of the whole school. Well, yes, but children don't really care about that sort of thing, do they? Maybe not, but their parents certainly will. This will keep them in gossip for months. And that's bound to filter back to the kids, isn't it? It's not much thought of that. It was so embarrassing. Dad, how could you do that? I know, I know. If I could take it back, I would. But you can't. I've got a lesson in five minutes. Oh, my days. That was traumatic. When we were on the landing and then he came back upstairs for a phone and I had to army roll into the airing cupboard. I think that's the first time that airing cupboard's been used since we moved in. That place is a bit of a pigsty. Oh, my heart's still banging. Feel. Oh, yeah. Hey, thanks for last night. It was really nice. It was, wasn't it? And it looks like we got away with it. Not quite. Ben. What are you doing here? Just dropping some post office for Josh on my way to work. Good night, was it? Yeah. Yeah, thanks. Not that anything. No, no, nothing happened. Yeah, yeah, sure. Nice try. Well, I must say, this is a total shock. I absolutely never could have predicted things might end up like this. Have you finished? Only just started, mate. No, honestly, it's. It's sweet. It's lovely. I'm happy for you both. I'll give the post to Josh. You can go now. Okay. All right? I'm good. You know, you've only just missed your dad. My dad was here? Yeah. Just saw him driving off. Ah, right. Yeah, well, he said he was seeing Alice. I didn't realize he meant here. Shame. He could have given you a lift home. Actually, I think I could do with the walk. I'll see you later. Yeah, great. See you later. Brian. Oh, Lillian. What a nice surprise. Come in. Oh, you already have. Hello, Brian. If you've come to tell me what a terrible father and grandfather I am, you're too late. I've heard it all from Alice. I'm worried about her, Brian. She's been in a terrible mood all day. She's clearly very upset by all of this. Justin started it. He did. He was winding me up. Will you just listen to yourself? You sound like one of the kiddies dressed up as a carrot, not a grown man. Look, I'm under no illusions about Justin and I've said the same to him. But Alice is Your daughter. And you have to find a way to repair things with her. I've tried. I mean, did she tell you I went over there this morning? Yes, she did, but she didn't want to hear it. What am I supposed to do if she keeps rejecting my apologies? You have to mean it. I do mean it. You have to show her that you deeply regret what happened. I do. I wish I hadn't. It just Justin get to me. But I did. And with things as they are, I don't seem to have a complete handle on my reactions. And can anyone blame me? It's understandable. With everything you've got on your plate. Trying to run this place without Stella must be tough. Yes, it is. But you know you'll end up with burnout if you're not careful. I'll just have to take my chances. I'm not joking, Brian. This level of stress can't be good for you. I'm sure you're right, but what choice have I got? Well, from where I'm standing, you've got several options. Oh, really? Well, go on. I'm listening. Accept help. I have. I am. Rory's been helping with the seed orders this morning, and Adam's here full time since he ducked out of Bridge Farm. That's good. Well, let them do more. They're more than capable. And you need them now more than ever. The stress is getting to you. Yes, well, whose fault is that? Look, I know you're unhappy with Justin. That's putting it mildly. But what good is it doing you? All this resentment. I know you don't want to hear it, but at the end of the day, Justin can do what he likes. Yeah, he always does. That's what I'm talking about. You need to find a way through this. Because this anger and bitterness is. This determination to struggle on alone is not good for your health. The top and bottom of it is I'm worried about you, Brian. And I'm not the only one. Even if I'm the only one saying it. Working hard, I see. Oh, where did you spring from? I'll have you know I'm on a break. I've been hard at it all morning. I know. Is it not a bit damp lying on the grass? No, it's lovely. Just resting my eyes. What are you doing? What are you doing here anyway? I thought you were working. I am. I'm on my lunch break and I thought I'd treat myself to a Friday panini from the tea room. Nice. I bought you one. Oh, really? Yeah. Roasted veg and halloumi or chicken pesto? Either. I'm starving. Thanks, mate. There you go. I don't know which is which. So what? So what about you and Paul? We. We had a nice time. Oh, this is seriously good. I know, but how did it. I mean, when I left, you were all awkward. How did you go from that to. Well, actually, it was surprisingly easy. We were just talking and it was really, I don't know, nice. I forgot how much I like him. What? Like. Like him like him? Maybe. When you left, I suddenly realized that I really didn't want to go home yet I wanted to stay chatting to Paul. And so we kept chatting and. Well, you know the rest. Josh and Lily don't know anything about it, by the way. So. Yeah. Yeah, all good. Yep. So you're gonna see him again? I guess. Enbridge is a small place. I didn't mean that. I know you didn't. So. Well, we both agreed it was a one night thing, right? I mean, neither of us is looking for a relationship at the moment. Why not? What do you mean why not? We just aren't. We're happy as we are. Or do you really like each other but you're scared of getting hurt? Do you think Paul really likes me? Dunno. But I think you really like him. You do, don't you? Yeah. All right, I like him. I really like him. I knew it. But I've no idea if he feels the same way about me. Right. Well, you'll be relieved to know that I better be getting back. Thanks for dropping by. I'll have another word with Alice this afternoon, see what I can do. Have a word about what? Oh, hello, darling. If you've come to read me the riot act, I'm afraid Lillian's beaten you to it. I was trying to help, darling. No, I haven't. Come to our gift. That makes a change. Chris rang after drop off this morning. Is everything all right? He had a word with Martha's teacher about what happened yesterday. He apologized on behalf of the family, told her how upset we were. Right. What did you say? Chris said that she insisted there was nothing to worry about. Oh. She said hardly anyone had noticed. No one had mentioned it at all. And apparently someone thought that one of you had taken ill. That was about it. Well, good. I mean, obviously I'm still angry. Obviously. Oh, dad, don't make fun of me. I'm not. I'm not. Look, you're well within your rights, Alice. It was totally unnecessary and extremely embarrassing. Yes, but really all I care about is Martha. Chris said when he left her, she was surrounded by friends, playing happily. So you don't think she's going to be ostracized because of my actions? Hopefully not. Snow. Well, that is good news. Yes, it really is, darling. I'm glad you're feeling better. I am. Thanks, Auntie Lillian. Even so, I was just saying to your dad, I wonder if this little episode demonstrates that he's been under too much pressure lately. Maybe he should find ways to ease that. You know, take a step back, accept help. All things that farmers find very difficult. I know, but anyway, look, I'll leave it with you. I'll see you back at the stables, darling. Yeah, okay. I won't be long. Bye, Brian. Yes. Bye, Lilia. She's right, you know. Not you as well. It's been awful without Stella. Yes, because of the stress caused by Justin Elliott. No, not just that. You're doing too much. I've got Adam. And since Rory came back, he's been a real help. Well, good. But Lillian's right. About what? But I'm past it. No, and she didn't say that. You didn't hear her. If she suggested that you might think about taking a step back, then she's got a point. I have taken a step back. Adam's doing a lot of the day today. Now more of a step back. Well, where do you want me? The other side of the bypass? That'd be a big enough step for you, dad. What? I'm talking about letting go of some of the responsibility for the farm so you don't have to be across every little detail. And let Justin get what he wants? I don't think so. This isn't about Justin. It's about you. You're not sorry at all, are you? Of course I'm sorry. To you and Martha, not to Justin. He won't get away with this, Alice. I'll fight him. And I'll win if it's the last thing I. Sam, in the future, will your taxi fly? I'm Greg Foote, host of the BBC Radio 4 show and podcast Sliced Bread and now Dough. In Dough, we explore future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives. Might delivery drones make popping to the shops a thing of the past? On demand? Drone delivery could be absolutely huge. Will we really let our cars do the driving for us? If you say this whole driving thing, it's a thing that's only ever meant for humans, that's obviously for the birds. Each episode, I sit down with entrepreneurs and experts to discuss what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow like tomorrow. Find out on Do Listen first on BBC Sounds. The following advertisement feature is presented by Go Turkia. You're thinking about a holiday? What about a detour across the Turkish Riviera? After all, the best way to discover somewhere is to go off the beaten path. In Tarsus and Adana on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, kebab shops fight over their traditional recipes. Try the Tarsus kebab, which is thick and fatty, and the Adana kebab, very spicy. In the ancient city of Patara, the capital of what's recognized to be the world's first democratic system, discover the heritage of none other than Santa Claus. Oh, sorry, we meant Saint Nicholas, who was actually from Anatolia, not the North Pole. 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