Pip goes to her appointment, and Ruth is supportive.

Lilian tells Alice she?s spoken to Brian about breaking up with Miranda, but he wants more time to process his feelings. Alice says she?s spoken to Azra about dementia, without mentioning Brian. Lilian thinks Kate?s concerns are exaggerated, but Alice is still worried. Lilian suggests they should see how things go for now.

Talking to Bert, Chelsea mentions bumping into her dad at New Year and having a nice chat. Bert warns her against trusting Den, before inviting Chelsea for a drink at The Bull. While there Chelsea irritates Bert by texting Den. Bert concedes it?s her decision if she wants to stay in touch with Den. Lilian wonders why Bert?s wearing a neck brace, but Chelsea warns him off claiming it?s to do with the church roof collapsing. Then Den texts Chelsea back, telling her he?s got some news.

Chris is surprised when Rex and Alice turn up together on Fallon?s doorstep, as he?s leaving. Chris admits he?s going on a date. Rex tries covering any awkwardness by asking about the cricket logo competition and the Borchester Show, before Alice blunders in with a crass remark. After Chris goes the awkwardness continues as it becomes clear Fallon wasn?t expecting Rex. She insists there?s enough food for three, while Alice wonders why Rex was being weird with Chris. After a nice meal they plan an evening out with Fallon and Harrison, before Chris reappears as Alice and Rex are leaving. Chris won?t give any details about his date, before admitting to Fallon he thinks they?ll meet up again.

Alice praises Azra for her Mental Health initiative, then tells Azra she?d like to see addiction services given more prominence. Alice asks Azra for advice on helping a ?friend? whose father may be showing signs of dementia. Clearly suspecting it?s Brian they?re talking about, Azra plays along, suggesting booking her friend?s father an appointment with his GP, but also offering to dig out some leaflets for Alice to give her friend. Bert phones the surgery, demanding an appointment. Lottie explains there are none available, but Bert insists he?ll turn up regardless, before shouting in pain and putting the phone down. Chelsea reluctantly agrees to take Bert in. After he?s been seen Bert complains about the scant advice he was given to alleviate his pain and mutters about his aborted compensation claim, claiming he wanted the money to help Chelsea fix up her horsebox. Chelsea?s touched by this, while Bert insists that?s what family is for. Stella tells Ruth about Pip?s appointment at the Breast Screening clinic on Thursday and asks if she?ll go with them. Ruth seeks reassurance her presence will be welcome, then offers to drive them there. Stella admits how worried she is, but didn?t ask before to avoid bringing up bad memories for Ruth. Stella reckons she?s showing more signs of anxiety than Pip and worries she?s driving Pip mad. Ruth gives Stella some sage advice before they agree a time for her to pick them up on Thursday. Stella later confirms that Pip?s really pleased her mum will be there.

Lilian goes to see Brian and refuses to apologise for being concerned. Brian gets antsy with her, before confessing that he really misses Jenny at times like this. He apologises for over-reacting yesterday. Lilian mentions dementia, but Brian insists that?s not what?s going on. Up on Lakey Hill Lilian tries teasing out of Brian what the underlying issue is. She guesses it?s to do with George. Indirectly, Brian admits, before telling her that it was Ruairi who hit George with a bottle. Lilian struggles to take it in as Brian outlines what happened when George was attacked. Lilian now sees why Brian?s in such a state, but doesn?t understand why Brian can?t move into the farmhouse with Miranda. Brian explains it?s because Ruairi couldn?t face living there and is barely holding himself together. Brian feels Jenny would have agreed with what he?s doing to protect Ruairi. Lilian agrees to go along with it, before Brian makes her promise not to tell anyone that Ruairi hit George.

Noting her stress over Brian, Fallon asks Alice how things are going with Rex, suggesting they come over for supper on Wednesday. They move on to cricket teas and the fierce competition to design a logo for the new team, before Fallon asks how Chris is coping with Rex being her boyfriend. Alice asserts that her and Chris are in a good place, but still frets in case Chris has said anything to prompt Fallon?s concern. Alice then admits she?s worried about everything at the moment, but particularly her dad.

While Adam cooks a Sunday roast, Alice tells him she?s spoken to Kate, who agrees that Brian?s break up with Miranda doesn?t make sense. Adam warns Alice off tackling Brian about the subject over lunch, before Lilian arrives. She?s soon followed by Brian, but Ruairi can?t make it. True to Adam?s word Brian tells them he won?t talk about Miranda. Alice sounds out Lilian about Brian?s erratic behaviour recently. Whatever?s going on, Alice agrees with Kate that it?s serious. Later, Brian overhears Alice expressing her concerns to Lilian and has a go at them for gossiping about his private life, insisting he can sort things out on his own. Brian slams out and Alice tells the others that, like Kate, she?s genuinely concerned Brian might be showing signs of dementia.

Wearing a neck brace, Bert moans to Tracy about the pain he?s in, but she gives him short shrift. He wants to get compensation after the church roof fell in, though Tracy points out he wasn?t even there. It?s a scam! Bert complains that no-one?s offered to do anything for him on the Easter Promises Tree. He?s determined to pursue his compensation claim from Alan, despite the fact he won?t be able to produce any evidence or witnesses, as Tracy again points out. Bert threatens to get Susan to help with his claim instead. Later, Tracy admits feeling bad. But Bert?s changed his mind about pursuing the claim because of what Tracy said, about Alan helping Susan when the shop needed a home. Alan doesn?t deserve the hassle.

Pip informs David she?s decided to tell Ruth about the lump in her breast. She?d really like Ruth to come to her appointment too, but won?t put pressure on by asking her.

Later, Ruth?s glad Pip has told her and also pleased Pip?s been checking and caught it early. Ruth shares some memories of her own experience with cancer and advises Pip to lean on family, friends and medical staff who want to help. Ruth then admits to David that, although she put on a brave face with Pip, she found it hard going. David remembers how desperate he felt at the time, not being able to do anything that made a difference. Ruth?s just happy he was there to hold her hand. They agree they?ll do the same for Pip ? that and hope.

Azra demands to know when Fletcher the budgie will be rehoused, warning Khalil not to spoil him. Khalil?s supposed to help make dinner, but Azra lets him off when he mentions seeing a friend who might take Fletcher. Before going Khalil briefs Azra on feeding and talking to Fletcher, plus a problem with his feathers. Azra then calls in Alistair, who suggests the issue might be due to stress from changes to Fletcher?s environment. Later, Khalil reports finding a potential home for Fletcher, but Azra wants to concentrate on settling him. Alone with Fletcher, Azra talks soothingly, sharing several things on her mind. Khalil then confirms his mate Barney can take the bird, but Azra reveals a change of heart ? Fletcher?s staying right where he is.

Bumping into Adam at Grey Gables, Oliver mentions he?s helping Miranda measure up the farmhouse. However, Miranda hasn?t been cheered up by their lunch and Oliver wants to know what Brian?s playing at there. Adam can?t shed any light. With his sudden change of heart and irrational behaviour, Oliver wonders whether Brian is alright. When Adam goes to Brian and asks the same question, Brian is put out, insisting he?s fine. Adam should forget about it. While debating a couple of contrasting ideas for the farm?s future, Brian?s reminded of his earlier promise and assures Adam he?ll get on to his solicitor next week about changing his will. Later, Adam relays back to Oliver that Brian is perfectly fine and making rational decisions. Oliver still feels for Miranda, though.

When Usha and Carol get chatting about the Promises Tree and Emma mentions she?s signing up, Carol wastes no time recruiting Emma to clean her windows. However, Emma pushes back when asked to wash and re-hang Carol?s curtains. Carol suggests Alan could at least do the re-hanging.

At St Stephens Alan?s grateful for George and Chris?s help, but explains the work on repairing the ceiling can?t start until paperwork is signed off and hoops are jumped through ? plus there?s an injury claim to deal with. Later, Alan gets George to open up to him, before they discuss Alan?s vocation. George then shares his dream of one day having his own flock of sheep. However, having been let down recently by a potential cash investor, George is resolved to go it alone.

Out in the fields David waxes lyrical about Magic Day grass, but notices how distracted Pip is. It?s obvious when Pip makes mistakes that something?s wrong, and she finally admits that she?s found a lump in her breast. She reassures emotional David that she?s having it looked into. Pip doesn?t want to worry Ruth, but David feels she?d want to know. Later Pip gently berates David for tiptoeing around her, trying to encourage normality. Pip doesn?t want to stir up old memories for Ruth, but admits to feeling in limbo herself.

Khalil goes round to see Fletcher the budgie, with a bell as a gift for him. Awkward Lynda starts to explain that Fletcher can?t stay. However, she can?t bring herself to disappoint Khalil.

Azra?s grateful to Lynda for talking to her again about her mental health initiative, following Lynda?s help with the radio interview. They brainstorm ideas for going out into the community with a stall and recruiting key people like Ben Archer. Lynda encourages Azra to communicate directly with people, before admitting her dismal failure in communicating with Khalil earlier about the budgie. This is news to Azra who takes Khalil round to Ambridge Hall later, insisting he apologise to Lynda and, separately, to absent Robert. Azra then says they?ll take the bird off Lynda?s hands. Fletcher can stay with Azra until Khalil finds a friend who will take him on. As Azra and Khalil depart, Khalil bets that Azra will secretly love Fletcher, while Lynda mutters a sad farewell to the bird.

David notes Adam?s happy mood and prises from him the good news about the Home Farm succession, agreeing to keep the news to himself. This gets them talking about inscrutable Josh, who seems to be enjoying life in Patagonia.

While inspecting the rubble at St Stephens with Usha, having been inspired by the Promises Tree initiative, Oliver offers his services to Alan as liaison between Church officials and the builders, to help sort everything out. Usha then has a worrying call from Alan, which she shares with Oliver. One of the congregation has complained anonymously to the Archdeacon, claiming compensation for injury from the fallen ceiling, even though Alan was sure no-one was in that part of the church.

Emma teases George about his birthday, before he makes an excuse about why he wasn?t at Keira?s party yesterday. Emma and Amber have both baked cakes, and George jokes that he wouldn?t dare say which is better. He?s delighted by Emma and Ed?s gift ? a mini-break for George and Amber in the Forest of Dean. As Emma praises Amber, George notes Emma?s change of heart over the pregnancy. She admits she still worries, but credits Will for offering to swap bedrooms to give the couple more room. George wants to know if Emma thinks he?ll be a good dad, then gets angry when she doesn?t give him a straight answer. When pushed, Emma admits she worries about George?s temper. He?ll need a lot of patience as a dad, but his tendency to lash out scares Emma. He has to control that.

Robert finds Lynda following the guidelines by chatting to the budgie, then admits he cannot reconcile himself to keeping a caged bird. They?ll have to re-home it, but without hurting Khalil?s feelings. They agree to name the budgie Elgar and concoct a barely plausible story for Khalil, before quickly realising the only solution is to tell Khalil honestly that they don?t want the bird. But when Khalil calls, Robert scuppers their plan, to Lynda?s despair. Flustered by Khalil?s delight at his budgie idea, Robert changed his tune and even renamed the bird Fletcher, after the TV sitcom, ?Porridge?.

George appreciates the new Meadow Farm garden gate Chris has made, out of horseshoes sourced by George, as a ?welcome to Ambridge? gift for Esme. George dodges having a beer with Chris and says he won?t be joining the pub cricket team. Although tomorrow is George?s birthday, he just wants to get through it. Chris then notices something on George?s ankle and George explains the alcohol tag. Chris feels guilty as he was one of the people who reported George for drunken behaviour, and promises not to say anything about the tag. George knows it?s good for him, but it?s embarrassing. Chris is off to Grange Farm for Keira?s birthday, but George doesn?t feel welcome. Chris persuades George to go with him and wait outside, while he speaks to Keira. When Chris then reports that Keira doesn?t want George there he offers to take George somewhere else instead. But George cycles off, urging Chris to go back to the party.

Alan tells Usha he found the dawn service on Lakey Hill very moving, before she updates him on what people have offered for the Easter Promises tree. Later, while Alan?s delivering his sermon at St Stephens, part of the ceiling crashes down. The church wardens evacuate everyone and no-one is hurt. Relieved Usha then helps Alan to reconvene the service ? al fresco in the churchyard.

When Adam mentions word is getting around about Brian and Miranda, Brian tells Adam to mind his own business. But Adam?s invested in Home Farm and gets Brian?s attention when he asks about Ruairi: with Ruairi busy at Berrow, what?s the plan for Home Farm? Brian explains that Berrow is a test and he?s discovering that Ruairi isn?t ready to be a farmer. Brian then wrongfoots Adam, proposing that Adam should take over managing Home Farm and inherit the land. Brian?s happy to change his will to give Adam a majority share of the vote in the family partnership, but suggests not telling the others yet. Stunned Adam agrees.

Robert has an unexpected birthday gift when Lynda finds a parcel on the doorstep: an empty bird cage with a note from Khalil, explaining that a budgie will be delivered later today. Robert isn?t keen, but Lynda thinks it?s wonderful. Once the budgie?s been delivered, with instructions, Robert insists on giving it back to Khalil. But Lynda knows how upset Khalil will be, having more or less rescued the bird. It can have a much better little life with them than where it was before.

Robert?s weary with Easter Promises volunteering, while Lynda complains about criticism of her over the pub cricket team. Robert confesses he has spoken with Oliver and sorted access for them to the cricket ground. Lynda accuses Robert of being part of the ?mutiny? against her, but softens when he flatters her. She concludes that she?s happy to pass the baton onto Robert, while he insists that he will still need her help.

Miranda joins Oliver for lunch at The Bull, where Lilian gets drawn in to their discussion about Brian and defends his actions. Brian then arrives and makes things awkward, pushing to have a private moment with Miranda, but she resists. Oliver criticises Brian, revealing he knows about his recent actions towards Miranda. Brian becomes petulant before agreeing to leave, with Miranda?s assurance that she?ll contact him when she?s ready to talk.

Lilian asks Brian why he got cold feet over the move, wondering why his concern over Ruairi is enough to end a relationship. Brian admits he doesn?t want to lose Miranda and Lilian urges him to tell Miranda the truth. They?re interrupted by Lynda and Robert, with Lynda surprising Lilian by talking about the need to sort out the new logo and kit for the cricket team. Lilian wonders where Lynda?s change of heart has come from.

Brian catches Miranda outside the pub and pleads with her ? he wants them to be together. But when Miranda presses him on moving in with her, Brian maintains it?s complicated. Miranda then declares she?s heard enough ? it?s over.

Oliver?s grateful to Miranda for her recent help with his near-miss with Duke. Miranda?s sorry for appearing so glum when they chatted afterwards, and gives Oliver the whole story about Brian. Oliver?s horrified to learn how Brian suddenly went back on their plans to move in together. They discuss Jennifer, and Oliver comments on Brian?s past ?indiscretions?. Miranda seizes on this ? she knows about Siobhan, but who else? When pushed, Oliver mentions Brian and Caroline. He regrets his words and tries to get Miranda to give Brian the benefit of the doubt. They discuss Caroline, with Oliver sharing that he normally raises a glass to his late wife on her birthday, which would be tomorrow. Miranda offers to join him and he warmly accepts.

Stella struggles gathering Rosie?s things for school, as she tries to help Pip, who?s heading to see Azra this morning. Azra asks standard questions and Pip tells her Ruth had cancer at about Pip?s age. Azra examines Pip and finds a small lump ? she doesn?t think it?s anything to worry about but refers Pip to the breast clinic. She explains what will happen. Azra encourages Pip not to worry, and is keen to check she has someone to chat with over a cup of tea. Azra suggests it would be worth telling Ruth. Pip says she?ll think about it. Stella phones to check in and agrees with Azra about telling Ruth, who might be sad to be left in the dark. Pip worries it might stir things up for her mum, but agrees to consider it.

Azra gets Pat and Natasha?s input for the Surgery?s mental health initiative, and Natasha?s not impressed by Tom?s ?just suck it up? attitude. Furious Tony interrupts them, demanding an explanation for the advert listing the dispersal sale of his Angus cattle. Azra?s caught in the middle before politely escaping. Pat reminds Tony that he did agree to this, but Tony reminds Tom that he was going to make the call himself when he felt ready. Tom finally confesses that Helen listed the cattle last week. Natasha joins Pat in helping Tony accept things. Later Pat and Tony reflect. Pat?s encouraging: Tony will find a new project. The farm is in safe hands and change is inevitable. Pat gives Tony a small gift ? an Angus herd for his model railway. Softened, Tony forgives Pat for forgetting to tell him about the auction.

In the shower, Pip can feel something on her breast and gets Stella to help her check. After some uncertainty, they agree there is something there. Pip will call the doctor tomorrow, as it?s too late today, and they agree to keep things normal until then and not say anything to Rosie. With Rosie put to bed, they have some wine and chat ? Stella knows about Ruth?s cancer history. Pip reflects on the past, and how little she has asked Ruth about her breast cancer. She compares herself to her mum, with a young child. Stella encourages Pip not to worry, and they agree there?s nothing they can do until tomorrow, when Pip will make an urgent appointment.

Lynda and Robert tick off their first Easter Promise job ? the first of several, to Robert?s chagrin. Lynda?s keen to know if Robert has any requests for his birthday next week. As Lilian looks for Miranda, she gets chatting with Lynda about the cricket team. They?re clearly on different pages about the benefits of the Pub team.

Robert quizzes Oliver about the cricket ground, keen to sort out the red tape preventing the new team using it. Oliver had no idea of any issues - it?s fine to use. He agrees to tell Lynda - without mentioning Robert?s name. Oliver also says he?ll think about helping young people with reading as part of the Easter scheme.

Updated Lynda seethes to Robert, assuming the old cricket team has turned against her, making up rumours about her supposedly spreading ?misinformation?. Lynda?s convinced someone?s meddling, and she?ll find out who.

Lilian crows to Miranda about Justin finding another investor for his BL shares, but notices Miranda seems flat. Lilian?s surprised to learn that Brian won?t move into the farmhouse with Miranda, who mentions Ruairi. Lilian keeps Miranda company on a ride, speculating that Brian?s actions could be to do with Jennifer and Brian?s association with the house. Miranda becomes emotional, but they?re distracted by Oliver having an issue on his horse, and go to help. Over a steadying drink, Oliver admits he feels past it. Lilian encourages Miranda to back her up in persuading Oliver otherwise, but downbeat Miranda agrees with Oliver?s comment about knowing when to give up on things we love.

Pip calls at Carol Tregorran?s to do some gardening as part of the Easter Promises Tree scheme ? but Carol wants to keep the garden as it is, wild and beautiful. She does offer Pip a bundle of garden tools and talks about her history, including being a market gardener. Eventually Carol relents and asks Pip to prune a bit of the garden, and round the back. They chat about Carol?s daughter Anna, who?s trying to get ?help? in at Glebe Cottage, cleaning and caring. Carol?s full or praise for Pip the farmer as she asks about her future, taking on the farm and dealing with her brothers. She encourages Pip to make the most of her life, with Stella too, adding a comment that stays with Pip as Stella arrives.

Henry?s focused on the job and unemotional as he oversees for the first time a lorry load of goats going off for slaughter. Pat praises Henry, and Tom chats with Henry about cricket and teases Tony for being sentimental over livestock. Tom apologies to Tony and admits he?s been like a coiled spring lately, waiting for Helen and the boys to move out. Tony admits that it?s hard letting go of the Anguses. As Tony explains that he needs time before contacting the auctioneers, horrified Tom knows that Helen has already called them. But he stops himself from letting on. Tom explains his worry to Pat, who says it?s fine ? she?ll make sure Tony knows, insisting Tony understands that the Anguses have to go.

Brian feels awful about how they left things and Miranda believes there is more going on with Ruairi than Brian has told her. If they want to stay together, she wants the truth: what is it that Brian isn?t telling her? Miranda makes to phone Ruairi, and Brian angrily stops her. As Miranda continues to challenge Brian on what he?s hiding, he can?t reveal the truth and tries to cover, leaving Miranda wondering what their relationship is. She concludes that without trust they have nothing.

At Grey Gables, Tom and Natasha reflect on what it?ll be like when Helen and the boys move out. They?ve had help with childcare and earned a decent nest-egg from the rent. Lynda chats about Palm Sunday and a new Easter scheme at St Stephen?s ? the Easter Promises Tree, a sort of volunteering matchmaking service. As Tom challenges Lynda about Ambridge cricket, Natasha feels beholden to her with the Easter scheme and offers something at the Tearoom.

Checking their finances, Natasha realises that they aren?t doing as well as she thought. As they discuss Tony?s sale of the Anguses, Robert approaches and tries to clarify Tom?s earlier comments to Lynda, about the cricket, field access and Ed?s Texels. Tom admits he?s confused about it. Robert offers to help, asking Tom not to say anything to Lynda. Robert grills Lynda, encouraging her to support the new pub cricket team. Lynda feels that Oliver will need persuading to let them use the Country Park ? and no one will be able to persuade him.

Tracy asks Lilian if Justin?s decided about keeping the horsebox at the Dower House, before revealing the big part she played in him getting a much better offer for his BL shares. Lilian?s furious that Justin never mentioned this to her and has left Tracy hanging. Later at The Bull, Tracy listens as Helen tells Lilian she?s going to become Tracy?s neighbour. Tracy then tells Lilian she?s nervous at the prospect of living so close to her boss. Sympathetic Lilian tells Tracy she tore a strip off Justin, who?s now agreed to let the horsebox stay as long as they need it to.

Over drinks Tony brings up the Anguses. Having chatted to David Tony?s decided not to fight Helen and to let the Anguses go. He warns Helen not to forget that she and Tom need to farm with their hearts and for enjoyment, not just for profit.

Miranda tells Helen she?s exchanged contracts on Home Farm farmhouse. Helen then reveals she?s had her offer accepted for the house on the Green. Miranda buys wine to celebrate with Brian, but as they raise their glasses Brian tells Miranda he can?t move in with her. He isn?t trying to end their relationship, but Miranda threatens to if he doesn?t explain himself. Brian eventually tells her he doesn?t want to leave Ruairi, who?s very vulnerable right now. None of it makes sense to Miranda, who can?t not buy the house. She shouldn?t have trusted him. Brian wants to move in eventually - but in the meantime what will Miranda do with the house?

Ruth susses something?s up with Ben, who?s been asked by Lily about moving into Josh?s room at the Stables. He?s decided to say no, having seen how upset David and Ruth are about Josh leaving. They admit they are a bit sad, especially with the bad feelings involved. But they?ll try to put things right and hope Josh comes round. As for Ben though, he doesn?t want to abandon them after they?ve been so supportive through his darker moments. They saved his life. Ruth gets a funny message from Josh, then she and David tell Ben he should take the room if he wants to. Later, David and Ruth agree their kids are brilliant.

George asks Brian for the money he promised him and wants to tell Brian his business plan, which no longer involves drones. George persuades Brian to go for a walk, explaining he wants to invest in five rare breed ewes. A farmer has offered to put them to his ram for breeding. George will ask Esme to keep them at Meadow Farm, but one day George plans on having his own farm. Brian?s response is crushing: it?s not going to happen. They agreed the money would be for George?s drone business, not this. It?s far too risky. Brian can only see George coming back to him for more money and he?s not having it. Angry George accuses Brian of lying about the offer to pay him and threatens to expose Brian, who walks off.

George promises Esme he?ll be back after his dentist appointment to help with the Lady Day celebration of her tenancy ? unless she?s changed her mind about wanting him there. Esme insists they?re a team, before George tells her the truth about going to his tag fitting. He then wonders to Amber if he?s done the right thing. Ed and Eddie choose cider for the celebration at Meadow Farm. Ed?s worried some of his regular work clients haven?t been in touch.

Pat tells Esme it?s the forty-eighth anniversary of their tenancy at Bridge Farm, so they can celebrate that too. Walking back with Amber, George admits he?s dreading seeing Esme after rushing off before. Ed and Eddie arrive with the cider, helped by Amber, while George goes ahead. Ed then realises why his clients are ghosting him: because Eddie left them in the lurch, selling his regular supply of hay to the highest bidder instead.

When George offers Esme his notice she turns it down, telling him she couldn?t manage without him. She offers to write a support letter to Reg, his probation officer, countering Derek Fletcher?s complaint. George then introduces Esme before she makes a speech, thanking people including Pat and Tony for all their help and generosity. Esme finishes by thanking George, her righthand man. She declares he?s such a hard grafter, she?s really fallen on her feet. George turns down the offer of a cider from Eddie, then whispers to Amber that Esme?s offered him a year?s contract. He hopes he can finally put the last year behind him.

David and Tony exchange thoughts on Esme?s Lady Day gathering and Josh?s sudden departure. David then confides his and Ruth?s doubts over their handling of the Brookfield inheritance. Tony sympathises, telling David about the Anguses and how he thinks Tom and Helen might see the future of Bridge Farm. Having your children tell you what to do is so hard, they agree. It?ll be the same with Pip before long, David thinks, before hoping he and Tony get more time for more chats like this.

Brian confesses to Alice that he?s nervous about moving back into Home Farm, before Alice suggests he?s been acting out of character lately. Even Lynda thinks something?s up. Brian dismisses their concerns, assuring Alice he?s fine, before conceding he occasionally fears he?s failed his children. Alice disagrees, even if Ruairi has had a wobble recently. More cheerfully Brian then claims full credit for bringing Rex and Alice together. Later, Miranda joins Brian and Alice for supper. Alice tells Miranda she?s happy about them moving into Home Farm, reassuring Miranda that Brian is happy too. If he's been stressed recently it?s nothing to do with the move or her. After the meal Brian admits he hears Jennifer?s voice in his ear when he?s cooking, before Alice leaves. Miranda then pulls Brian up on an earlier comment that the Home Farm house will be hers, not his. She wants it to feel like his home too, but queries whether it?s what he wants. Brian promises her he does, with all his heart.

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

Miranda tells Lilian that Brian really doesn?t seem himself. She?s been worried about some of Brian?s strange behaviours for a while now. Lilian wonders if it?s the thought of moving back into Home Farm, but Miranda doesn?t think so. When Justin joins them, Miranda suspects he knows what?s wrong with Brian. Justin suggests Brian?s worried about his children, especially the ones who can?t stand on their own two feet. Miranda singles out Ruairi as particularly fragile, though Lilian reckons Brian?s always worried about Alice and Kate too. However, both Justin and Lilian feel Miranda shouldn?t worry too much about Brian. Miranda and Lilian then mock Justin for admitting his relief he's never had children to worry about.

Ruth and David are discussing a going-away present for Josh when Ben tells them Josh is leaving tomorrow. He?s decided to go early to explore Patagonia before starting work, but is worried how David and Ruth will react. Ben also reckons Josh wants as little fuss as possible, so no farewell dinner or gift ? though he might agree to a meal at The Bull. Ruth?s determined Josh won?t go without at least saying goodbye. Later, after the meal, David, Ruth and Ben reflect on getting through the evening without too much ill feeling or awkwardness. David and Ruth then agree that nevertheless, it feels like Josh is leaving to get away from them, after the inheritance decision. Ruth hates the though of Josh leaving under a cloud and just hopes he comes back in one piece.

Helen tells Alan about Carol?s fall, suggesting more people should call in on her. Alan offers to go round later, before Helen apologises for adding to Alan?s burden. When Alan visits, spiky Carol tells him he looks dreadful. Alan mentions her fall and Carol thinks Anna and Helen are as bad as each other, fussing over her. Alan then hands her a list of various services offering help and friendship, but Carol rebuffs his overtures. However, after he leaves, Alan reports to Helen that he could barely get away as Carol was so clearly desperate for company ? and notes how frail she looks. Helen suggests he could ask Carol to help with a church activity and Alan says he?ll have a think about something she could do over Easter.

Brian asks George for a word about Ruairi, then tells him to leave Ruairi alone. George defends himself, suggesting Ruairi needs more help than Brian can give him. Brian accuses George of winding Ruairi up, but George reckons Brian is manipulative and has made plenty of mistakes of his own. Later, at The Bull, Tracy expresses surprise that Brian even gives George the time of day, after what he did to Alice. Brian thinks it?s better for everyone to move on, but does wonder how George will cope financially, with a baby on the way. Brian then tells George to stay away from Ruairi, offering him a one-off payment to do so. George wants to know how much. Brian suggests helping help with his drone business, but insists George must cut off all contact with Ruairi.

When Neil pops to Meadow Farm with George?s lunch, nervous George admits he thought Neil could be bringing bad news. Neil sympathises, before getting a guided tour of the farm. Esme?s delighted when her landlord messages offering a reduced rental and better terms on their environmental commitment. She?ll take over the tenancy next Wednesday, Lady Day, and plans a gathering to celebrate. George excuses himself, but Esme insists he?s coming too. Neil?s annoyed when Ruairi texts to say he?s sick, but George has a feeling Ruairi isn?t right at the moment.

While Tracy?s working on Chelsea?s horsebox at the Dower House niggly Justin says he only agreed to it being there because Lilian forced him. Tracy stands her ground before a solicitor, Olivia, arrives for a meeting. Justin tells Olivia he?s disappointed with the offer for his BL shares by the consortium she represents. She calls his bluff, suggesting he can?t find another buyer, before Tracy interrupts, wanting to heat up her lunch. Justin tells her to wait outside, but Olivia?s happy for Tracy to stay. When asked, Tracy explains what the horsebox is for and Olivia pushes Justin into agreeing he?ll act as Chelsea?s business mentor. The two women bond over having daughters of the same age and laugh at the idea of Justin as Ambridge?s sweetheart. Later, Justin thanks Tracy for breaking the ice with Olivia, who ended up making a more acceptable offer. Tracy clarifies that Justin really will mentor Chelsea, then pushes her luck over keeping the horsebox at the Dower House longterm. Justin agrees to think about it.

Lynda?s heard Azra?s being interviewed on the radio about mental health and offers advice on interview techniques. Azra?s grateful, but worries about making false promises over how much support can realistically be offered. Ben suggested making it a call to action by the community, while Lynda thinks it?s enough to prompt the conversation and point people towards support groups. Lynda then offers to drive Azra to the radio station, allowing her to prepare without distraction. Afterwards, Lynda tells Azra she was brilliant. Azra admits she followed Lynda?s advice, pretending she was in a one-to-one conversation with a close friend: Lynda.

Ruairi tells Brian about his conversation with George and how stressed he?s feeling. He wants to tell the police that he attacked George. Brian thinks it?s a terrible idea, as Justin approaches. Keeping his voice raised Ruairi insists he wants Brian to go with him, before making an excuse and leaving. Awkward Brian makes a flimsy excuse for Ruairi?s behaviour, then admits how deeply vulnerable Ruairi is. At which point Justin owns up to knowing about Ruairi?s relationship with Julianne, which involved payment for his company, and how troubling that was. Brian listens intently, pretending he knew as well, before Justin switches subject to confirm he?s finally found a potential buyer for his BL shares, making Brian?s day even worse. Later, Brian pulls Ruairi into a hug. Ruairi can?t stop mulling over what George said about nearly dying, but Brian can?t bear the thought of Ruairi going to prison. He?s determined to protect Ruairi and won?t let him down this time.

Anna returns early from her trip to Venice, confessing to Helen her life?s all over the place, especially when it comes to making sure Carol?s okay, as she never admits to any problems. At Glebe Cottage Anna suggests Carol needs more support. She can?t just rely on neighbours helping out. Carol?s stubbornly resistant before Anna asks if she?ll come and live with her. Carol scoffs, they?d end up killing each other. She?s staying where she is, she values her autonomy too much. Anna then suggests someone checking in on Carol daily, but Carol hated having a cleaner even twice a week. It?s an impasse. When Helen turns up with soup, Carol denounces being seen as a charity case, but still accepts the offer. Anna and Carol continue sniping at each other, while Helen excuses herself to heat up the soup.

Seeing George waiting at the bus stop Ruairi offers him a lift to Felpersham. Grateful George is embarrassed to admit he?s going to a counselling appointment, but Ruairi is very encouraging. George then wonders if Ruairi has ever had counselling, before extolling the virtues of going and explaining how his counsellor is helping him see things differently. George is surprised Ruairi never talked to anyone about losing his mum, thinking he?s been lucky by comparison, still having both his parents. George then politely declines Ruairi?s offer to wait and drive him home again, and apologises for comparing his situation to Ruairi?s. Ruairi tells him he?s glad he did, before George thanks him for the lift. He won?t forget it.

Tom tries recruiting George to the Bull cricket team, but George points out he?s still barred from the pub. George probably wouldn?t want to play anyway, not after the way people like Tom treated him when he was looking for work. Later, George sympathises with Esme, who?s still waiting for her landlord to give her a figure for the rent, before she can make decisions like keeping George on. George asks for next Monday morning off, saying he has a dentist appointment. Esme?s landlord emails about the rent ? and it?s more than she can afford. Esme despairs over the biodiversity protection figure quoted as well, but George encourages her to negotiate with the landlord, after getting advice from the Tenant Farmers Association.

At Berrow, distracted Ruairi gets a tractor bogged down in mud. After Neil tows it out Ruairi nearly breaks down in tears, but covers the reason why he?s feeling so bad. Sympathetic Neil offers to take him for a coffee, as Ruairi struggles to cope with Neil being so nice. At the Tearoom Ruairi berates himself to Neil before George comes over and mentions Amber?s pregnancy, to Ruairi?s surprise. Neil leaves them together, with George commenting on how Ruairi seems a bit out of it. When Neil returns, they check out the latest baby scan pictures. George mentions how close his child was to growing up without a dad, after he was attacked, before apologising for being so insensitive, given Ruairi?s loss of Siobhan. Ruairi tells George he?s sorry for what happened to him and George appreciates the sentiment.

Tom?s feeling upbeat after the Bridge Farm audit, though Helen points out they need a conversation with Tony about getting rid of the Anguses. Helen then gets a call from Anna Tregorran, who?s abroad ? her mum?s had a fall. Helen offers to go and wait with Carol for the ambulance, asking Tom to go with her. When they get there however, they have to climb in through a window before helping Carol up off the floor and into a chair. Fiercely independent Carol tells them she cancelled the ambulance when she heard they were coming. She?s sure nothing?s broken, apart from one of her best bone-china cups. Feeling awkward Helen then tells Anna that everything?s okay.

Lynda and Jolene are frustrated so few people want to help with Speedwatch these days. Jolene suggests a push for new volunteers to revive Ambridge?s community spirit, before broaching the subject of a new cricket team based at The Bull. Lynda is dead against and wants to come to the meeting about it later to make her disapproval known. Jolene isn?t sure that?s a good idea. Neither is Tracy, but she, Jolene and Tom listen while Lynda makes an impassioned case for the sacred tradition of the Ambridge cricket team. Her audience is dubious until Lynda points out a Bull team can?t be registered in time for the new season ? plus she?s promised Ed grazing for his sheep on the outfield. The only way it?ll work is if they come back to Ambridge Cricket Club. But the problem is, no-one wants to.

Jakob challenges Brian?s assertion that Kate is unsettled and wants to move to Scotland, given Kate?s enthusiasm for her work at Spiritual Home. Brian then wonders if Kate is just not letting on how unhappy she is, which gets Jakob wondering if Kate wants to split up.

Amber arrives at Spiritual Home for a massage from Kate, who?s a bit cool with her. Amber apologises for being horrible last time and things thaw a bit as they discuss her pregnancy. Later, Amber surprises George at Meadow Farm with a picnic. Amber?s glad she went for her massage and, following her conversation with Kate, encourages George to be more proactive in reading up on pregnancy. She wishes Ambridge had a young mum community. Georges looks forward to a future shepherding, then he gets an email from Reg: his court date?s set for March 23rd. George assures Amber he?ll stick to the rules with the tag ? with a baby on the way they have to properly grow up now.

Having spoken to Alice Kate challenges Brian on the crazy rumour he?s started about her wanting to leave Ambridge. Brian insists he did the right thing, giving Jakob the heads-up, but angry Kate insists she?s not going anywhere. Brian then tells Kate to put Jakob?s mind at rest, as he?s in quite a state. Kate clears things up with mightily relieved Jakob, but does she need to worry about erratic Brian? Jakob thinks not. He has to go, but not before he and Kate declare their love for one another.

Rex tries talking to Chris about Alice, but Chris only agrees to a pint later in the week, claiming he?s busy tonight. Then Alice appears, wanting to share news of Martha?s star of the week award. Rex slinks off, while Alice checks with Chris that everything?s okay between him and Rex.

Lily persuades Kirsty to head to the Bull for a drink instead of Grey Gables, though Kirsty?s keen to avoid gate-crashing Rex and Alice?s date.

At the Bull, Chris confesses to Jakob that he feels awkward about meeting Rex now he?s dating Alice, but feigns indifference when Lilian greets Alice and Rex as ?lovebirds?. Lilian shares her idea of a new Bull cricket team, with Alice, Chris, Rex, Lily and Kirsty all up for playing. Lilian wonders who would be captain. Alice suggests Rex, who agrees ? but only if Chris shares the role.

Jakob admits to Chris he?s worried about Kate potentially leaving. Chris offers to ask Alice what she knows, reiterating that he and Alice are still a strong pair with a daughter to raise together ? no matter who Alice dates. Later, Chris catches Alice, insisting things aren?t awkward with Rex. Chris is keen to chat about Kate, for Jakob. Alice insists Brian has got it wrong about Kate wanting to move away. Chris then asks about Mother?s Day. Alice mentions planting the rose she and Kate bought for Jennifer. She and Martha will do something too. Alice reassures Chris that Rex won?t be joining them ? but assumes Chris will. Relieved Chris says he?d like that.

Azra?s grateful to Ben for coming into work at short notice and as he eats a late breakfast they discuss Azra?s fasting. He tells Azra about Josh?s upcoming working holiday in Patagonia and the possibility of moving back to the Stables. Ben feels ready, despite the slight memory of his breakdown. They then talk about this year?s big push on mental health awareness. Later Ben reports he?s contacted Radio Borsetshire; they?ve suggested doing a live interview with Azra next week, linking it with their own mental health campaign. Azra?s nervous about getting her message right, but thinks a call to action might be her best approach.

While Jakob attends to a horse with Alice, Brian pops by and notes Rex has a spring in his step. Jakob admits he knows Alice and Rex are an item.

Brian?s keen to check in with Ruairi, while Alice suggests Ruairi?s a bit down because of Paul being away. They discuss Miranda?s purchase of Home Farm and debate where to plant a Mother?s Day rose for Jennifer. Brian compliments Alice on looking so well, smugly taking credit for her and Rex. Brian?s worried about Kate and talks to Jakob. Limited to video calls with Phoebe, Brian?s convinced Kate wants to live in Scotland, nearer her daughter and granddaughter. He?s keen to check with Jakob how he?d feel if Kate admits she wants to move. Jakob isn?t averse in theory, but as Kate hasn?t mentioned anything to him Jakob admits a slight panic and wonders whether Kate even wants him to go with her.

George?s probation officer, Reg, has bad news ? someone?s made a complaint about George?s ?public urination? on Sunday. George protests to Amber; he was barely visible. Reg meets George and asks about his future plans, and mentions some worrying patterns of behaviour linked to drinking. There won?t be a prosecution, but Reg will recommend an alcohol tag for thirty days. George is incensed, but Amber tells him to suck it up. No-one will spot the tag under his jeans, so he can tell his family he?s staying sober to support her.

Ruth and David are busy lambing and there?s no rest for David, chair of the Borchester Show. Ben can?t help as he has to work at the surgery today. They miss Josh, whose being merely polite with them currently, and want to make him feel better before he goes away. David suggests throwing a big party. Ben agrees to ask Josh if he?s up for it.

Lily and Ben chat as she has a routine blood test. As Ben mentions the party idea, Lily sympathises with Josh?s antisocial mood, recalling her own inheritance issues at Lower Loxley. Ben?s happy to not be in the running at Brookfield. Lily asks him about moving back into the Stables when Josh goes.

Later, David and Ruth want to discuss their ideas for Josh?s party. Lily then reports Josh isn?t up for it. Ben suggests Josh would enjoy a meal out. Ruth starts booking a fancy sushi place, but David worries it won?t be enough to convince Josh he?s not the ?Spare?.

Kirsty?s happy for Rex, promising she won?t tell anyone about Alice. Rex teases Kirsty over her pact with Kate not to watch TV for a week, encouraging Kirsty to break it while Kate?s out for the evening. Rex then joins Kirsty watching the next episode of her favourite TV programme. Kate arrives home unexpectedly early though and busts them, before confessing she had the same idea ? she was planning to sneak off and catch up with it on her phone. Relieved Kirsty admits to having zero willpower, as they settle in with popcorn to watch together.

Kate admires Alice?s cake for Martha ? Jennifer would be proud. Brian and Jakob play with Martha, who?s become obsessed with trains. Brian notes to Kate how well Martha is doing ? Alice clearly doesn?t need to worry. Kate?s resigned to missing some of the little moments of Peg growing up. She doesn?t think Phoebe will return to settle in Ambridge.

Chris and Alice are pleased at how well Martha?s party went. Chris spots the gift from Rex and as they get talking Alice admits that they have been seeing each other. Chris didn?t imagine Rex was Alice?s type, but he?s cool about it.

Over a pint, Brian tells Chris he feels fortunate being able to enjoy these important moments, big and small, with Martha and Xander. Chris reflects on co-parenting with Alice. As the subject of Chris and Alice?s relationship comes up, Chris admits that they?re definitely not getting back together, now that she?s seeing Rex. Brian?s pleased for Alice, while Chris reflects that he?ll get used to the idea.

George helps Eddie set up the cider shed, as Eddie has invited family over to wet the baby?s head following a healthy scan. Eddie reminisces about wetting baby George?s head with Will and David. George is glad Eddie and Will have made up, and Eddie praises George ? he?ll be a great dad. Later, Eddie and George walk home, joking about Eddie?s baby name ideas. They bump into Rex who shares cricketing woes - and ideas for a new, different venture. George stops to relieve himself, reacting to a passing car horn.

After going for a ride with Alice, Rex offers to help make Martha?s birthday cake, but Alice worries about him being in the house. Rex wonders why they need to keep their relationship a secret. Alice agrees to tell Chris, but only after Martha?s birthday. Kate arrives and they wonder if she saw them kissing, before Kate grills Alice on her plans for Martha?s party tomorrow. Rex gives Alice a gift for Martha, while Alice tries to put Kate off thinking there?s anything between her and Rex. Later, Kate reveals she saw the kiss and they joke about Brian thinking he brought Alice and Rex together. Alice asks Kate not to tell anyone, but admits she?s thrilled. However, Kate soon drops Kirsty an obvious hint. Kirsty isn?t shocked, but realises she played gooseberry when her, Rex and Alice went out recently, before telling Kate about her next exciting trip with Erik. They binge-watch their favourite TV show, before challenging each other?s will-power over screen addiction and keeping secrets.

Having heavily persuaded Ruairi to come round for tea at The Nest, Alice says both her and Miranda are worried about him. Ruairi admits the thought of going back to Home Farm without Jenny there feels really weird. Alice agrees, but also looks forward to sitting by the French windows and conjuring up Jennifer?s presence. Ruairi starts crying, before rejecting Alice?s offer to move into the Nest with her and Martha instead. Alice pushes, she can easily move into Martha?s room and they?d both love his company. Ruairi though insists he?ll stay at Blossom Hill, at least while he can still afford it. Alice reiterates he?d be very welcome and makes him promise that there?s nothing else bothering him.

George and Amber ambush Eddie and Will into a meeting, producing the scan photo of Eddie?s first great grandchild. They explain, the next scan?s only eight weeks away and they don?t want to bring their baby home into a divided family. Left alone to talk, Eddie asks why Will can?t put their differences behind him, like him and George have done. Will argues that he couldn?t turn his back on George like Eddie did. He was taking care of someone who could have died. Will then admits what George did to the family was awful, but reckons he?s really turned a corner since. They hug and agree to draw a line, grateful to George and Amber for bringing them together. Elated, Eddie suggests a resurrection of the Cider Club on Sunday. This reunion deserves a celebration!

Celia Sparrow is disappointed to hear from Helen that she?s turning down the job of running Reuben?s dairy. She admires Helen?s loyalty to her family but questions whether that will be enough for Helen long term. With her talent and ambition, won?t she outgrow Bridge Farm? Helen doesn?t agree. Meanwhile, Tracy has got the dairy work under her belt, including a knack with the temperamental curd cutter machine. To thank her for her hard work and discretion, Helen takes Tracy for lunch in the Tea Room. Tracy has helped her make the job decision ? Bridge Farm is in her heart and part of who she is. Tracy reminds Helen that Reuben Sparrow?s organic dairy could be challenging competition, but will not have their key advantage ? Helen in charge! Helen confides further ? she?s put in an offer on a house being sold off by the Housing Association. Tracy?s astonished to realise it?s one of the houses on The Green ? they?d be neighbours.

Amber anxiously awaits the baby scan with George. As well as checking the baby?s development and measurements, the scan will help Sonya, the sonographer, estimate a due date. Sonya finds a strong heartbeat and delighted Amber and George decide to have photos printed. Amber had considered sharing it on her socials, but decides to keep it to family for now. Filled with emotion on their journey home, Amber feels excited about their growing baby, which according to her pregnancy app, is the size of a lime. They?re having a baby - and nothing else in the world matters.

The Bridge Farm Archers discuss the results of the broadly positive audit. The veg boxes are flying and the Tea Room?s doing okay after the sewage setback. The sausages are coasting, and both Dairy and Shop are doing really well. However, to Tony?s dismay, the Angus herd isn?t profitable and Helen suggests a possible alternative: they could buy in organic beef for the shop and café, switch the herd to more Montbeliardes and thereby up production in the dairy. Sensing implications about his age Tony slams out. Later, he reflects gloomily to Pat that although Tom and Helen are the future of the farm, they need to remember what?s best for the land - and the people who live and farm it. It?s not just about maximising profit. He thinks they?re in danger of taking the soul out of Bridge Farm.

As Amber and George work on Eddie?s 75th birthday slideshow, Will joins them but remains determined not to attend the party. He cannot forgive Eddie for how he treated George. Perhaps when George has his own child he will understand why Will can?t move on. Later, Amber reveals to George that she?s taken another pregnancy test. It?s positive, but she?s worried about tomorrow?s first scan, considering she?s had no recent pregnancy symptoms. She?s researched early pregnancy and knows there?s risk, so doesn?t want to get her hopes up. George tries to reassure Amber and Will boosts her by sharing memories of his children?s scans. He remembers Nic being worried but staying focused on being positive. That?s what Amber needs to do too.

Cheese rival Celia Sparrow calls at Bridge Farm, where Helen underplays the audit. As they tour the farm, Celia reveals the reason for her visit. Her musician brother Reuben is opening an organic farm in Little Croxley. Staggered, Helen hears that he?d like her to be Director of Operations in his dairy. It?s an exciting project and he?s offering an incredible salary, enough to move house if Helen wanted. Back at the dairy, Tracy is impressed by the job offer ? she?s a huge fan of Reuben?s band Spuggy, and was gutted to miss their reunion tour. But when Helen reveals she doesn?t think she could leave Bridge Farm, Tracy is unconvinced? is she thinking with her head or her heart? Brian tries to reassure Miranda that Ruairi is fine ? he?s just worried about Paul and his dying grandmother. This doesn?t ring true to Miranda, so Brian discloses Ruairi?s anguish over the Home Farm move, linked to his memories of Jenny and Siobhan. At Blossom Hill, Miranda gently coaxes Ruairi, who admits he?s struggling. She suggests planting trees at the house, in honour of his mother and step-mother. Ruairi?s about to open his heart when his phone rings and the moment is lost. Later, he tells Brian that he?d been at the point of telling Miranda about the attack on George. Appalled, Brian tells Ruairi he can never implicate Miranda in their mess. Brian agrees that the move isn?t right for Ruairi at the moment and he can stay at Blossom Hill, but warns him to stay away from Miranda.

Eddie surprises George, who?s sorting out old family photos at No 1 The Green. George awkwardly reveals he?s preparing a slideshow for Eddie?s 75th birthday. The memories make Eddie emotional, bringing home how close they?ve always been as a family, and how different things are now ? what would Joe say if he were alive today? George insists it?s all been his fault. He regrets what he did to Ed, and what he said about Nic. He?d do anything to turn back the clock and be close again. Touched, Eddie can see he?s trying. He reckons they should put it behind them ? after all, who knows how much time he?s got left?

Arriving to measure up at Home Farm, Miranda is surprised to find Ruairi, who?s been for a run and found himself there. Sensing he?s not himself, Miranda tries to cheer him with the news that the exchange should be in a couple of weeks. He can come in and have a look as the estate agent should be there. With work as an excuse, Ruairi leaves. Miranda later shares her concerns with Brian, who insists he?s looking forward to the move. Calling in at Berrow Farm, Brian demands that Ruairi tells him what?s going on. Distressed, Ruairi admits he can?t entertain living at Home Farm. For him it represents Jenny and his early life, and would only emphasise how disappointed she?d be in him now. Brian tells Ruairi to pull himself together because they?re definitely moving in, before embracing him and assuring Ruairi that they?ll be alright.

Tom complains that he was too tired to do paperwork last night, with the twins being at such a livewire stage. Helen reminds him that she needs his veg box figures for tomorrow?s audit and considers how Bridge Farm could become more efficient. Affronted Tom pushes back ? they are doing well and he has reservations about the need for an audit. As Pat and Helen enjoy a walk, Pat reminds her that Tom is in a different position in life to her, still having young children, and could be feeling threatened by Helen?s energy and enthusiasm for the business. Raising this with Tom, he at first blusters, but then admits to Helen that he does feel a little insecure and in fact it might do them good to have a thorough examination of the business.

Things get steamy on Rex?s narrowboat when Alice arrives and offers to refasten his crooked shirt buttons. Later, they are interrupted by Adam, who wants to chat to Rex about potentially playing cricket for Darrington. With Alice hiding in the bedroom, flustered Rex badly covers what he?s been doing. Later, Rex and Alice are hoping no one will realise they are in The Bull on a date. Adam, seeing them, lets Rex know that he hasn?t got it in him to play for a rival team. He asks them if they?d be interested in another team sport ? one the whole community could get behind. As they agree, Adam joins the dots ? he teases them that it?s sweet they?re together and promises them discretion.

At The Bull Chris tells Hannah he?s looking forward to making the plant supports for her step-father, but generally he feels a bit old and pointless. Hannah sympathises, her career feels stuck too ? what they both need is a good work challenge to get them going. David then outlines his idea for a farrier competition at the Borchester Show, which sounds great, but Chris doesn?t want to organise it. When David uses the word ?challenge? Hannah leaps on this, after what they?d just been saying. Then Hannah?s bluff is called when she tries to shirk the challenge of helping with the staging. David puts both their names down and Chris reckons he?s worse than Lynda Snell! Helen?s woken by a call from Kirsty about the Open House viewing later. Kirsty realises Helen?s in bed with Finlay and rings off, before Finlay and Helen agree they?d like to stay there forever. But being together will only happen if one of them gives up the life they have. And that seems impossible, despite the overwhelming strength of feeling between them. They each have too many commitments in their lives to start anew. They decide to make the most of what little time they have left together and leave it at that. Helen then goes to view the house on The Green, telling Kirsty she has no regrets about last night or being unfaithful to Dane. She finally feels ready to move on with her life, for the first time since Rob died. She thinks moving into the house is a definite possibility.

Helen tells Kirsty they?ll be taking Tracy on at the Dairy despite Susan not being keen on working with her sister. Helen admits she?s thinking of taking Dane to meet Finlay later, if she meets him at all. Then Finlay calls and Helen agrees straight off to meet him at the pub where he?s staying, before telling Kirsty her brain went to mush. This is so not her! Later at the pub, Helen waits with Kirsty for Finlay. When he arrives Kirsty quickly disappears, with Helen only belatedly realising she?s gone. By the end of the evening Helen and Finlay finally admit their feelings for each other, before heading to his room together.

Brian joins Rex at The Bull to discuss the rewilding walk, with Alice having told Rex she?s delayed. Brian then calls Alice, asking her to come and meet him. When Alice arrives Brian sends her to join Rex and Alice quickly susses that Brian is match-making. She asks him to never do it again as it?s embarrassing. Kirsty then turns up and sits with Rex, oblivious to Rex and Alice?s intended date. She tells them she?s just been a very reluctant gooseberry and needs some company. When Rex mentions the drive-in movie Kirsty is interested and Alice plays a trick on Rex, encouraging Kirsty to go with them, before admitting to Rex with glee that it?s payback for last week?s botched invitation to the Brewhouse. After the film Alice tells Rex about Brian?s match-making. Before an oblivious Kirsty joins them in Rex?s taxi, Rex and Alice admit that there is something between them.

Rex gives Brian a lift back to his car after it ran out of petrol, and stays with him to check Brian?s ok restarting it. Later, at the Rewilding, Brian?s impressed by the variety of wildflowers on one of the trails. He quizzes Rex about his life pre-Ambridge and why he went into farming, before suggesting they meet at The Bull tomorrow, when Rex can talk to Miranda about taking her walking group on a Rewilding trail.

At the Dairy Susan is demonstrating the cheesemaking process to Tracy when Chelsea taps at the window. Tracy tells her she hasn?t had time to talk to Lilian yet, then on their break Chelsea fills Susan in on her dilemma ? she?s got nowhere to put the horsebox if it can?t stay at the Stables! Chelsea implores Susan to let Tracy sort things out with Lilian, but Susan reckons Chelsea needs to do it herself if she?s a proper businesswoman. Tracy agrees, leaving Chelsea to it. Later, Tracy begs Susan to take her on at the Dairy for Chelsea?s sake, but also because she?s a good worker.

At the Dower House Chelsea does her best to sway Lilian, who appears unmoved. Chelsea then walks to The Bull with Lilian, outlining her business plan in detail. Lilian?s impressed but still says no to keeping the horsebox at the Stables. However, Chelsea could keep it at the Dower House instead ? there?s a spot in the corner behind the shrubbery. Stunned Chelsea tells Lilian she loves her, and Tracy exclaims to Lilian that she?s just made her the happiest mum in the world!

David approaches Lilian about the Stables participating in the Borchester Show, but then has to go and deal with a calving. Later though he bumps into Lilian again at the Shop and expounds on his idea for some kind of equestrian competition at the Show, to be run by the Stables. Susan suggests a farrier competition would be good too. David leaps on this, encouraging Lilian to get the Stables fully involved, before Lilian discerns Lynda?s influence at work. Lilian and Susan then outline the Snell modus operandi, before Lilian declines the offer. Susan then spills the beans about Chelsea working on the horsebox at the Stables and Lilian thinks she needs a word with Alice?

Susan recounts to Chelsea, Jazzer and Tracy what happened at the Dairy yesterday with Kirsty. She wonders if Brad or Chelsea might be interested in helping, but it?s a ?no? on both counts. Chelsea, Jazzer and Tracy then tell Susan about the mobile salon idea and how brilliant it?s going to be, before they go and start work on making the horsebox fit for purpose. Chelsea can?t help worrying how she?s going to pay for people like the electrician they?ll need, but Tracy has an idea and offers her services to Susan at the Dairy. Grateful Susan says she?ll suggest it to Helen. However, when Lilian catches Jazzer and Chelsea indulging in some childish horseplay she demands they remove the horsebox from the Stables immediately. Chelsea despairs, how did everything go this wrong this fast?

Chris and Hannah are on their way to a cricket team meeting Freddie?s called. There?s still bad feeling over last season?s controversial hidden payments to some players, even before Hannah and Chris discover Freddie?s forgotten this meeting and gone to another one instead. Assuming that?s the end for the cricket team Hannah then lays into Freddie?s poor judgement for suggesting George could rejoin the team. Hannah has no time for George and wants to tell Amber how misguided she is for sticking with him. Chris is more forgiving, but admits phoning Probation about George getting drunk on New Year?s Eve. Luckily George wasn?t recalled to prison and Hannah reckons Chris shouldn?t tell Emma what he did, rather than stir things up again.

Akram tells Susan he?s happier working outside than in the Dairy, which is disappointing for Susan as working on a big, new cheese order is getting too much for Pat. Then Helen tells Susan Kirsty?s volunteered to do some shifts, starting immediately. Susan?s doubts about Kirsty are quickly confirmed though when she keeps getting things wrong. Kirsty then phones Akram to check on the procedure and is told off for bringing a phone in. Kirsty admits she?s worse than useless, saying the same again to Helen later. Kirsty then asks if Helen?s pursued a house for sale in the village, but Helen?s distracted by a text from Finlay, the crofter she met in Scotland. He?s coming to Borchester and wants to meet up. Helen knows she should say no, but? It's a yes then, reckons Kirsty.

Jazzer tells Chelsea she?ll be getting more money to help pay for the horsebox she wants to convert into a hairdressing salon. But Chelsea worries whether the owner will accept weekly payments, before proposing the idea to Alice, who says she?ll check with the owner.

Rex drops in at the Stables and agrees to meet Alice at The Bull on Thursday for their date, but will look for somewhere to go onto. Rex returns later, helping Chelsea measure up the horsebox before Alice announces the owner has agreed to Chelsea?s payment plan. Delighted Chelsea goes to tell Tracy, while Rex suggests a drive-in movie on Thursday. Alice loves the idea, then potentially agrees to Chelsea leaving the horsebox at the Stables while it gets refurbished.

David catches Lynda at the end of a Speedwatch session and swerves committing himself to volunteering on the speedgun until Autumn at the earliest. When Jazzer joins them David asks if they will volunteer to help with the Borchester Show, for which he?s chair of the committee. They both turn him down flat, with Lynda suggesting David work on his recruitment technique or the show is doomed to failure. Lynda elaborates that David should develop his big idea first, target the right people to progress it, then reel them in by outlining the benefits that would result, particularly for them. David is hugely grateful for the advice, but still can?t persuade Lynda to volunteer. She tells him she?s far too busy now ? but might perhaps be available in the Autumn?

It?s early doors at the engagement party when Zach joins Stella, who makes him apologise to Josh for stirring things up over the pre-nup. Josh accepts he went too far having a go at Pip, but says he?s not staying for the party. Pip hopes Rex might meet a prospective girlfriend tonight, but Rex suggests that issue might already be settled, though it?s complicated and could still go badly wrong? Pip thinks Rex should go for it anyway. Pip and Josh then have an awkward exchange about Carol Tregorran?s tenancy at Glebe Cottage, before Josh apologises for taking out his feelings on Pip. He tells her he?s going to look for work on a farm overseas. Pip?s stunned and thinks David and Ruth will be devastated. Josh points out they?ve both worked abroad in the past, hoping they?ll understand. But it?s his life and he feels he?s got nothing to lose.

Zach teases unamused Lynda about her Speedwatch activities, before she puts him in his place. Ruth makes a speech welcoming Stella into the family, raising a toast to the happy couple. Later, Pip and Stella tell Zach that Josh is leaving. Stella feels Zach is partly to blame for stirring things up, but unrepentant Zach feels it could be good for Josh, even if he hasn?t completely made up with Pip.

Rex and Alice have an awkward dance together, Pip and Stella a better one, agreeing to set a date for their wedding. Inspired by this Rex and Alice clear up their misunderstanding and agree to go on a date.

Akram?s happy being allocated work in the big polytunnel while Tom and Tony are busy elsewhere. Later though, when Tom calls to check progress, he realises Akram has been digging up the wrong plants. Tony is more forgiving than Tom, suggesting Akram go and fix a leaky tap instead. Tony then has it out with Tom for not taking time to give Akram proper instructions. Despite Tom?s reservations Tony still believes Akram will be an asset to Bridge Farm.

Pip and Stella love the decorations they?ve sorted for the party, but the mood in the Events Barn dips when Josh comes to stock the bar and is immediately snippy with Pip. When Stella goes out Josh raises the issue of a pre-nup, accusing Pip of playing Russian roulette with Brookfield?s future. Josh then outlines Pip?s failures in life and love as reasons not to trust her over the issue. Pip accuses Josh of homophobia, but he reckons it?s about her being a complete flake and sewing things up with David and Ruth behind his back. Josh suggests the timing of her marriage plans could hardly be more convenient to coincide with claiming her inheritance, calling Pip a liar before warning Stella to be careful what she?s hooking herself up to. Once he?s gone Stella comforts tearful Pip, quickly realising the pre-nup idea came from Zach, who has previous for stirring things up. Nevertheless, they agree some sort of arrangement would be a good idea. As for doing something about Josh though, they?ll leave that until after the party.

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