Writers: Sarah Hehir, Katie Hims & Sarah McDonald Hughes Director: Peter Leslie Wild Editor: Jeremy Howe

Brian Aldridge? Charles Collingwood Ben Archer ? Ben Norris David Archer ? Timothy Bentinck Ruth Archer ? Felicity Finch Helen Archer ? Louiza Patikas Pat Archer ? Patricia Gallimore Tony Archer ? David Troughton Lilian Bellamy ? Sunny Ormonde Alice Carter ? Hollie Chapman Justin Elliott ? Simon Williams Miranda Elliott ? Lucy Fleming Amber Gordon ? Olivia Bernstone Eddie Grundy ? Trevor Harrison Ed Grundy ? Barry Farrimond Emma Grundy ? Emerald O?Hanrahan George Grundy ? Angus Stobie Tracy Horrobin ? Susie Riddell Esme Mulligan ? Ellie Pawsey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At Berrow, Hannah concedes Ruairi?s doing better than she expected. She?s still not convinced he?ll stay the course though, but Ruairi?s enthusiasm is very persuasive. Ruairi goes with Neil to the outdoor unit, where Neil invites him to a meeting with a feed representative before suggesting a more challenging task for Ruairi to get involved with. Later, Neil tells Ruairi they?ve been sufficiently impressed to want to continue his training. He?ll have to take an online welfare handling course, but can then start looking at stockperson training to further his career.

In their search for the missing watch Rex and Alice split the list of pubs in Felpersham where it could have been handed in. Alice reassures Rex she?ll be fine going into bars on her own, but when they meet up later they?ve both drawn a blank. They go into the last pub together, the Brewhouse, where the manager tells them she?s kept the watch in her safe. Alice can?t believe the owner was so negligent, leaving it in a toilet, but at least Rex?s problems should be over. Rex offers to share any reward, before they discover they?re both going to the Bull?s Pancake Day celebration.

At The Bull later Ruairi tells Neil not to book him on stockperson training as he?s not sure how long he?ll be staying at Berrow. Rex arrives, followed by Alice, who suggests going for a drink at the Brewhouse one night. Misunderstanding Alice?s intention Rex suggests Ruairi could come along too, with Paul and some others. Covering, Alice agrees that sounds wonderful.

Akram is delighted to be gifted a packet of seeds by birthday boy Tony, who explains he?s giving the same to everyone in the village, rather than receiving presents he doesn?t need. Tom hopes it will encourage some guerilla gardening, before sending Akram off to work in the packing shed. Later, Tom finds Akram trialling a new system for packing the veg boxes, but it ends up taking far longer than the usual system. Akram apologises, then admits he?d much prefer doing outdoor work, including all the muckiest jobs.

Stella suggests Pip is distracting herself with work to stop thinking about the rift with Josh over the inheritance. Pip admits it?s preying on her mind, before Stella changes subject to Ruairi starting at Berrow, comparing Brian?s rash decision-making to her current boss?s calmer approach. Stella?s looking forward to her brother Zach arriving in the run-up to Friday?s engagement party. Later, Pip is impressed when she finds Zach already installed at the Bungalow, having brought champagne, crisps and other treats, claiming they?re to ease Stella?s burden and celebrate Pip?s birthday. Zach teases Stella with an embarrassing memory, before Tony arrives with his gift of seeds, accepting a glass of champagne in return. When Pip and Rosie go home later, Zach punctures the sense of bonhomie by suggesting Stella might be settling for less than she should in backwater Ambridge, where everyone?s related to each other. Stella gets defensive and Zach backs down, saying he's happy for her, so long as she?s thought through the consequences.

At the Rewilding, Alice is impressed by how the beavers have already reduced the risk of flooding downstream on the Am. Alice takes photographs for Phoebe before circuitously asking Rex if he did anything for Valentine?s Day. Rex, though, is worried about his taxi licence renewal after a drunken fare made a complaint about Rex ?stealing? an expensive watch he left in Rex?s cab. Unless Rex can prove the man?s suspicions are groundless, that could be it for him as a cabbie. Alice suggests checking if the watch was handed in at any of the pubs and bars the man drank at before getting in Rex?s cab, offering to split the task if they go on Tuesday. Rex agrees.

Alice confides in Ruairi that she?s debating whether or not to ask out someone she fancies, before noting Ruairi is more subdued than usual. Ruairi denies this and heads off to Berrow Farm, where Neil lets Hannah know that Ruairi is starting as a trainee. It?s all very last minute, Martyn having told Neil that Brian wants Ruairi to get more hands-on farming experience. Hannah is unimpressed, what they need is a skilled worker, not a complete novice. Neil agrees, but they?ve got no choice in the matter. Ruairi then listens carefully while Neil and Hannah outline the seriousness of the responsibilities Ruairi will be taking on and the necessity of avoiding contamination. Later, while Neil starts showing Ruairi what to do, Ruairi gets distracted, then slips and falls in the muck. Hannah can?t see him lasting a week.

As oblivious David collects glasses at The Bull, Ruth turns up dressed for a romantic dinner. Her plan has worked, and they settle down for a Valentine?s date. David admits this is better than squeezing in at the bar, but now they?ve got a free evening tomorrow. Ruth jokes they could use that time to work on their wills, as they?ve already told the children the succession plans. David hopes his dad would think they?re passing on Brookfield in good shape. Reminiscing, the couple recall their first Valentine?s Day together almost forty years ago.

Alice arrives at The Bull to take Fallon for a night out at a comedy gig as a surprise. In between acts, Fallon asks if Alice is looking for a Valentine, and flustered Alice confesses there is someone who has crossed her mind. Fallon agrees Rex is lovely. She points out if Alice is interested, she?s just going to have to ask him out.

Ruairi arrives back from the Suffolk farm visit to Brian, who tells him about George?s visit and his own subsequent confession. Ruairi is stunned ? surely Brian didn?t confess without solid evidence? Brian asks if he?d rather he told George that it was Ruairi who attacked him. Ruairi says he?ll tell the truth, but Brian insists he?ll do no such thing. He made a promise to Siobhan to keep him safe. If Ruairi wants to get back into Brian?s good books, then he?s got to work for it.

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

Chelsea persuades Jazzer to test drive the horse box to work out what repairs would be needed. As it judders through Ambridge, Chelsea explains her wedding plan ? the horse box would get the wedding party out of the house for their beauty in the ?Glam Van?, and she?d park up at the venue for the day for people to get refreshed. She?ll also drive to clients? homes and the painted van will act as her billboard! Jazzer outlines the van?s problems ? most likely the clutch, and part of the suspension is shot ? enough to haggle the price down to her budget. Tracy catches them on the test drive and can?t believe Jazzer is helping with this mad scheme. He defends Chelsea?s idea and says he?ll help with the repairs and renovations. She?s worked so hard and he wants to help make her dreams true. Tracy is still sceptical ? even if Chelsea can haggle the price down, how will she pay for the conversion and repairs?

George is retracing his steps on the bridle path where he was attacked, when Amber finds him to remind him about his counselling session. He is distracted as his memory has been jolted and more details about the attack have started to come back to him. Amber thinks he?s avoiding counselling and accuses him of spiralling in his intentions, but he promises he?ll be back from his walk in time ? he just needs to get his head in order. Later, George knocks at a door, where Lilian answers his urgent request to open up.

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

Brian hears Josh?s Brookfield inheritance woes. He encourages Josh to be relieved to not be saddled with debt, and to build on his egg enterprise. Josh is put out that Pip will receive a farm worth millions ? maybe he should look beyond Brookfield for his future?

Ruairi is planning to visit a large farm to learn about their diversity strategy. With extremes of weather, farming is volatile and grain prices are trending down. Disparaging Brian reminds him of his five decades of farming experience, which counts for a lot in planning. Later, the two discuss Josh?s situation ? Brian thinks a mid-size operation such as Brookfield is a poisoned chalice. Ruairi is not afraid of taking on a farm and presses Brian on his succession plan. Brian retorts that Ruairi?s a long way, if at all, from filling his shoes.

Although Amber compliments Fallon on her coat in the shop, she is not sweetened and gives a barbed suggestion that Amber could help with Speedwatch, to make a stand for the victims of reckless drivers.

Fallon has a plan for Ruth?s Valentine surprise. David is to come to The Bull on Friday to help behind the bar, saying they are short staffed. The secret booking is back on! George has heard that his accused attacker has pleaded not guilty, so the case will go to court. It raises doubt in his mind about their identity. Amber reassures him that he should not have to worry about it, the court will deal with it.

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

Susan comes to see Clarrie with some early birthday treats and a proposition. Accompanying her on the school pick-up run, Susan asks whether she might be interested in taking back her old job at the dairy. They?re rushed off their feet at Bridge Farm and they need help. Clarrie admits she misses the place and working with Susan, but she enjoys her work at Underwoods Local and in the school. The people are lovely, both jobs are easier on her body, and she gets to pick up Poppy. Susan?s disappointed but glad to see Clarrie so content.

There?s a crisis at Meadow Farm. The cows are out and Esme?s struggling. George lends a capable hand and the animals are soon under control. Later George reassures Esme. He?s located the cause of the escape ? there?s a broken gate on the winter housing. Esme?s grateful. When Josh finds George fixing the gate, he admits he must have knocked it yesterday when he was scraping the yard. He feels awful but George tells him to stop worrying, it?s all fine. Josh apologises to Esme, who thinks the work at Meadow Farm might be too much for him. He has his own business to keep running. She needs to stand on her own feet, and besides she has George helping now. When Josh declares he doesn?t trust George, Esme doesn?t share his scepticism. She believes George is genuine and that the job means a lot to him. She offers George the afternoon milking, and Josh has to reluctantly let go of the reins.

At the Bull Ruth takes Kenton aside to ask if there are any tables left for Valentine?s. Knowing that David?s already booked one, Kenton tells her they?re all fully booked. Later he relents and offers her a table for the Friday, explaining David?s secretly booked for the Saturday. Ruth?s table would be a proper one rather than cramped at the bar, so she instructs Kenton to cancel David?s reservation and confirms hers. Later she asks casually if David would like to do something on Friday night. David responds that bearing in mind how busy they are on Saturday, it might be best just to stay in.

Amber and George agree that whatever happens at the dinner with Amber?s parents, they have each other?s backs. Anne Marie and Bill politely cover their mild surprise at seeing George before settling in to chat about the ?situation?, and the plan. When it becomes clear this means questioning whether or not Amber?s pregnancy will go ahead, Amber?s firm that this is not an accident; she?s having her baby and will live with George. Anne Marie persists with her view that they have options. Appalled Amber tries to close the conversation down, but her mother insists she doesn?t want Amber to be trapped. Gutted not to have her parents support, Amber chooses George, and the family who?ll love her just as she is. Amber worries to George she might turn out like her mum, but George reassures her. They have everything they need, together.

Pip and Stella visit Ruth and David. When they?re cagey Ruth wants to know what they have to say. Pip blurts out that they?re getting married, and they recount the story of the engagement ring to her astounded parents. They make a toast, and Ruth offers the events barn as a venue for their party. Ruth reports later that Jill has insisted they all go to the Bull tomorrow night to celebrate. Ruth and David agree it?s lovely news but it gives you a bit of a jolt when your children move on to their next life stage. David observes they?ll need to consider the future of the farm at some point.

Amber picks up George from Meadow Farm after work. George reckons the work?s going fine. He admits Josh is posing a problem but it?s no big deal. Amber?s disappointed George didn?t confide in her sooner. George is touched when Amber takes them to his favourite chippy, something he?d been looking forward to since his release from prison. They enjoy a moment eating fish and chips from the paper, before Amber admits she?s going to see her parents tomorrow night, and not going out for a friend?s birthday as she?d originally told George. George is shocked to hear Anne Marie knows about the baby. Amber feels her mum might genuinely want to help, and could even be ready to accept them as a couple. George offers to go with Amber tomorrow. He hopes she?s right about her parents, but whatever happens, he?ll be there for her.

Susan?s working over her hours in order to cope with a large new order. She and Pat agree the order?s good news, they just weren?t ready for it. Pat explains that instead of receiving presents for his 75th birthday, Tony wants to give everyone in the village a packet of organic seeds. Susan thinks it?s a lovely idea. By the end of her shift she?s looking forward to home and a hot bath. She and Pat agree there?s enough work for another person to be in the dairy at least part time. Pat says Helen has someone in mind. Susan says she?ll keep her eyes peeled too.

Over a delicious meal cooked by Stella, Pip tries again to raise her worries over her birthday treat, but they?re interrupted by a noise from the kitchen. Cleo the dog?s stolen some of the cheesecake Stella?s prepared as dessert. Stella worries Cleo may have swallowed something dangerous. Slightly bewildered Pip agrees they should get her checked over. Paul shows Stella the scan he?s done of Cleo ? she?s swallowed a small object. It won?t do her any damage but Paul reckons Stella should show Pip the scan. As Pip peers at the picture she?s confused to see a ring. Stella explains she?d put it on top of Pip?s portion of cheesecake, as a proposal. Pip?s bowled over and encourages Stella to propose properly, which she does. Delighted Paul appears and suggests an engagement party. They all agree that this ridiculous chaotic proposal suits the couple down to the ground.

Will prepares George an early hot breakfast for his first shift at Meadow Farm. Amber wakes up too and both of them wish George luck as he sets off, before admitting to one another they?re both anxious for him to do well. Esme?s grateful as enthusiastic George offers to fix a blocked gutter once he?s done the milking. Josh arrives and is thrown to find George up a ladder ? he was intending to do the repair himself. Esme declares that George has been great, adding that she can manage at the farm now if Josh wants to take a step back and focus on his own business. Josh warns her to be careful that George doesn?t take advantage and expect to be paid extra. Esme counters there?s been no hint of this so far, but Josh isn?t convinced. He?s happy to carry on helping, so why pay George to do the jobs? Later George realises Josh has told Esme his suspicions. George insists he?s just doing his job, before telling Josh he?s off his head.

Amber?s shocked when her mum Anne Marie turns up unexpectedly. Anne Marie?s found out about Amber?s pregnancy, and expresses her concern for her welfare. Amber assures her she?s fine and all?s well, but Anne Marie wants to talk further and invites Amber to dinner on Thursday. She misses Amber and just wants to be there for her. Later as Amber, George and Will celebrate George?s successful first day, Amber doesn?t want to break the mood and says nothing about her encounter, insisting all is good.

David and Ruth realise they?ve committed to an event in the barn on Valentine?s Day. Ruth was hoping to offer to babysit for Pip and Stella. David?s affronted ? maybe they might want to go out themselves. Ruth comments it looks like they?ll be behind the bar in the barn now anyhow. They can always go out another night. Later David?s disappointed when Kenton tells him the Bull?s Valentine?s event is all booked up. Kenton eventually finds a small space to squeeze them in, if David doesn?t mind sitting at the bar. David?s happy with this. Ruth arrives and suggests Pip and Stella could come to the Bull for Valentine?s if she and David babysit. David hurriedly covers, saying they should probably stick with doing the bar in the barn, to save money.

Pip and Hannah admire the art installation at the rewilding site: stained glass set in wood from a fallen oak. Pip admits ruefully that she and Stella don?t get much time together at the moment, though it?s good she?s enjoying her job. Pip wonders whether Stella?s mentioned a cruise for her birthday ? she?s being secretive and Pip can?t work it out. She doesn?t fancy being cooped up at sea so she hopes not. Hannah confirms she?s heard nothing, but suggests Pip just asks Stella. Pip duly tackles the topic later but realises Stella had fallen asleep and hadn?t heard a word she?d said. Recounting this to Hannah, Pip asserts there?s definitely something on Stella?s mind. One way or another she intends to find out what it is.

After working a night shift Ben?s late getting up for his graduation ceremony and has to be chivvied along by David and Ruth. Before the ceremony starts David spots that Ben has fallen asleep. For alphabetical reasons Ben will be first up to collect his degree, so Ruth calls his phone, assuming the vibration will wake Ben. It rings loudly instead, immediately waking Ben, who apologises before going on stage to be greeted by the amused Chancellor. Afterwards Ben and David tease Ruth about the phone call and having a cry, but they are all very proud of what Ben?s achieved.

Amber encourages George to stay positive about getting a job, before Esme calls, asking him over to Meadow Farm at lunchtime. George assumes it?s a ?maybe?, which Amber tells him he needs to turn into a ?yes?. He?d be perfect for the job and Esme would be lucky to have him. When George gets there, he advises Esme on replacing some rotting fence posts. Esme knows about his criminal past, spelling out that she?s looking for someone trustworthy and reliable. George assures her he won?t let her down, emphasising how much he cares for livestock and how he needs to step up for Amber, now she?s pregnant. Esme reveals she has worked previously with ex-offenders, before offering George a two months? trial of part-time work milking, looking after cows and doing general farm work, starting on Monday. George is dead chuffed, going to meet Amber after work. She?s thrilled and they both vow to work hard for their future as a family.

Rex asks Joy about New Year?s Eve and Mick?s story about taking Joy to a real-ale pub after midnight. Joy tells him she met Rochelle instead, and they talked about her new partner. It?s bittersweet for Rex, who says it?s great that she?s met someone.

Lilian tells Joy that Justin was bordering on triumphant when he came home last night. This is news to Rex, but he really hopes it means Justin has sorted everything for Peggy?s artwork unveiling at Rewilding Ambridge. When David tells Kirsty about the family members who are coming, he picks up that the artwork hasn?t been sorted yet. But when Justin arrives he tells Kirsty he thinks he?s solved their problem, but they need all the muscle power they can muster to make it happen before two-thirty. Rex, Kirsty, David and Justin, plus mini-digger, then work like crazy digging holes to anchor the new, improved artwork. Joy arrives with news that a truck?s waiting down the lane, before Justin co-opts Joy into helping unwrap several packages. Each piece will go into holes on either side of the path, Justin explains. They?ve all been sourced from Julie the artist?s upcoming exhibition. Justin had to expend a lot of persuasive energy as well as hard cash to get her to agree, but so long as Lilian?s happy with Peggy?s Art Installation it?s all been worthwhile.

Later, Lilian gives a speech before the stained-glass installation is unveiled to appreciative gasps and applause. Lilian then tells Justin the artwork is awesome and Peggy would have loved it. She can hardly thank Justin enough.