It’s New Year (!) 29/12/11

Ambridge Extra 29th December 2011

• Shula makes Daniel see sense
• Clive’s in hospital
• Amy genetically wired to stab someone?
• Daniel ruins Erin’s New Year

Shula makes Daniel see sense

Daniel came in at 3am last night, and doesn’t want anything to do with Alistair. He won’t even sit down at the kitchen table to talk.

[Daniel] “No. Not while he’s here … didn’t you hear me, you shouldn’t even still be here”

He tries to go out riding, but Shula catches up with him before he can leave:

[Shula] “This isn’t going to get any better if we don’t talk about it … darling, I need you to see something. Last night dad showed me the texts Erin sent him”

[Daniel] “Don’t you get it, I’m not interested, he’s full of bull”

[Shula] “I didn’t want to look either but I had to. You're just going to have to be grown up about this. Here. It’s both side of the conversation. You can see the dates”

Daniel reading Erin’s texts to himself:
(from Erin) ‘When are you visiting next, I could do with some more of that smile’
(from Erin) ‘Hey Al, don’t worry about Mr Purvis, I’ll just flutter my eyelashes at him’
(November 21st from Alistair)’ tomorrow fine Erin, but I can only spend half an hour’
(November 22nd from Erin) – had a fab time with you today, can’t stop thinking about when I can come over again’
(from Erin) ‘My evenings are you boring when I’m not with you x x’

[Shula] “She was the one coming onto him, He really didn’t do anything”

[Daniel, the truth starting to dawn] “He still could have stopped her”

[Shula] “Your dad just didn’t want to see you get hurt, that’s all. Oh come on love, he knows he made a mistake. Your dad would never do what she’s accusing him of. I know that, and believe me I was furious when he first told me, and you know it too don’t you … look, I’m sorry, I wish I didn’t have to show you those, but you were so convinced”

[Daniel, upset] “I thought she really like me mum, and all the time … not as much as dad though”

[Shula] “Oh come here, this is my fault as well, I should have told you sooner, I only didn’t because I love you and your dad loves you as well”

Daniel goes back in to say sorry to Alistair for everything that he’d said. Alistair apologies to him as well.

[Alistair] “If I could go back and do things differently. I just hoped I could let Erin down gently without destroying your relationship”

[Daniel] “I should have known she’d never have been interested in me anyway”

Daniel now doesn’t want to go the ball as he thinks everyone will be laughing at him. And Erin will be there

[Alistair] “This isn’t about you. Honestly, the way Erin’s treated you, she doesn’t deserve you. She’s not worth it Daniel … she just uses men for attention, none of this reflects on you” … In fact, it would be good if she sees you there. Show her you’re above her silly games”

I still think Alistair did encourage Erin to an extent (and it was all middle-aged ego), but he did stop it before it went too far. Again – don’t play games with kids!


Clive’s in hospital

Earlier on, we hears Usha talking to Amy about meeting up to do the sales. It was obvious Amy hadn’t told Usha about the Clive and her car incident.

Amy is now visiting Clive:

[Clive] “Come to gloat?”

[Amy] “I just wanted to check how you are. You’re looking better than I expected”

Clive is alive, but with two broken ribs, a “battered” pelvis and a hairline fracture on his neck.

[Clive] “I suppose I really ought to thank you, it’s what these doctors keep telling me anyhow, you know, cause of me spine”

(goodness me – Clive sounds rather sheepish)

[Amy] “I could hardly leave you there could I?”

[Clive] “Well I would have done … well anyway, ta”

[Amy] “That’s alright”

Clive tells her than his “rambling” after she had knocked him over was “rubbish”

[Clive] “You’re not to pay any heed to it”

So – he doesn’t want her to think of what he was saying about his childhood. He also starts blustering that hospital is great – free meals and pretty nurses.

As Amy is leaving:

[Clive] “Oh and eh Amy, maybe I’ll see you in Ambridge sometime”

[Amy] “You’re not coming back, are you?”

[Clive] “Who knows? Never say never, eh?”

Hmmm.

Has Amy literally knocked some sense into Clive – meaning his return will be of a prodigal come good – or will he be back to his usual Horrible Horrobin self?

Does he think that he now has a friend in Amy?


Amy genetically wired to stab someone?

Amy meets up with Usha, and tells her everything about Clive.

Usha is upset that Amy didn’t tell her and Alan about Clive stalking her. Usha thinks he should have been reported first time round.

But Amy’s worries go beyond Clive.

[Amy] “I’m not even sure I didn’t mean to hit him Usha. Yes, he was drunk, and he stumbled out in front of the car, but I don’t know maybe, subconsciously …”

[Usha] “Oh come on, you know that’s nonsense”

[Amy] “I’m not sure anymore, the way that I felt when I saw him last week, it was like, just this anger, I couldn’t control it. What if it’s the same thing that made my mum stab that girl? … I’ve always had a temper and dad, he says how much I remind him of her. It used to make me feel connected to her, but know?”

[Usha] “Your mum made a mistake, you don’t believe it made a bad person do you, so you’re not a bad person either … we all have parts of us we’re ashamed of, thoughts that we wouldn’t want anyone else to hear, it’s how we act on them that’s important, and you helped Clive”

[Amy] “That was just my training kicking in”

[Usha] “Exactly, your instincts as a carer.”

[Amy] “If things had been different for me, if I’d have had his upbringing …”

[Usha, first saying lots of ‘no, no, no’] “Clive had his choices … you’re kind and compassionate and warm hearted, your mum would be very proud, and so am I. For what it’s worth”

Amy reckons Usha’s pride in her is worth a lot. Especially as she doesn’t feel she could talk to her dad or Mabel like this.

[Amy] “I’m so glad that you’re part of your family, And you’re right. It’s not about the past”

[Usha] “You’re a very special girl Amy. Makes me wish I’d known your mum. She must have been very special too”

That’s better.

It had been recently sounding like Usha was jealous of (the dearly departed) Catherine, and that Amy didn’t really accept Usha in their family. But, now sounds like that’s all sorted.

Just took a drunk Clive and assault with a car.


Daniel ruins Erin’s New Year

Daniel has gone to the ball. After making sure he’s out his cloakroom ticket somewhere safe (bless him and his pedantic ways), he spots Erin. And goes over to her.

Daniel – to himself - God she looks amazing

[Erin, surprised] “Dan, you came!”

Daniel – to himself - Who’s that she’s with?

Seems Erin is at the ball with some chap called Miles, who Daniel reckons to himself is at least twice her age.

But Amy saves him (that’s 2 blokes in as many days!). She’s at the ball, and when he tells her that he’s split up with is girlfriend, she drags him off to spend New Year with her and her mates.

Later on, as Daniel is getting a drink, he bumps into that Miles chap again.

And what’s this …. When Daniel mentions that he knows Erin as they goes to school together, Miles seems confused.

[miles] “But Erin’s a vet. She’s just graduated”

[Daniel, laughing] “Is that what she’s told you?!?”

Erin comes over:

[Miles] “Erin what’s all this about you two going to school together? How old are you?”

[Erin, laughing nervously] “Dan, what have you been telling him?”

[Miles, now angry] “How old?”

[Dan, loving the scene] “Well, go on”

There’s silence from Erin.

[Daniel] “She’s seventeen!”

[Mile, horrified] “Seventeen! Seriously?”

[Erin] “Does it matter?”

[Miles] Just a bit. I’m not a cradle snatcher. Keep your drink. Go find someone your own age!”

[a rather triumphant Daniel] “You lied to him. Seems like you’ve been doing that a lot … give it up. I’m not falling for it, alright,. Tell your story to somebody else. I’ve got a life to get on with!”

It’s just before the bells, so Amy returns to Daniel. Seems she had introduced him to a girl he’s been getting on with, but as the countdown has started, they seal their New year with a friendly peck.

Daniel – to himself, texting - Hey, thanks for always being there dad. Happy New Year

Indeed.

Corny and obvious?

Possibly – but I enjoyed that moment. Good for Daniel to see that Erin was just a little witch (or replace that ‘w; with a ‘b’) and good for Daniel to see in the New Year with mates, and a good feeling about Alistair.

My only slight confusion is that we eavesdropped into this on the 29th (though I am writing this up on the 31st). Was this a mock New Year ball?

(I know – Ambridge Extra time is a law unto itself)

Alistair loses a son & Clive’s dying? 27/12/11

Ambridge Extra Tuesday 27th December 2011

• Clive’s stalking Amy
• Daniel’s stalking Erin
• Erin crashes Daniel’s world
• Amy crashes into Clive
• Daniel opts out from Alistair

Clive’s stalking Amy

Clive sounds like he’s stood on a street, drinking. His bottle is nearly empty.

Clive – to himself - Need something to warm me up … where are you miss Franks. Every other nurse has walked by. You’ve got to come out of there eventually. Well I’m damned if I’m going to let some stuck up vicar’s daughter treat me that way … right then,. Let’s have some fun!

He sees Amy leaving the hospital, and smashes down his bottle as he sets off after her.

[Clive] “Amy. Amy, Amy. Young women like you should be careful in a place like this”

[Amy, trying to get into her car] “Just go away. Let me open the door”

She smells the booze on his breath.

[Clive] “I only want to know if you had a nice Christmas. How do you think I spent my then, eh?”

Amy - to herself – please somebody

[Amy] “Help. Over here!”

[Clive] “Well, you seem to think you know so much about me?”

Sounds like Amy kicks or punches him, managing to him away from her and her car.



Daniel’s stalking Erin

Daniel really is creepy. I know fist love can warp the best of us, but he clearly isn’t taking any notice of the fact that she’s been ignoring and avoiding him.

He’s at Erin’s house, ringing and banging her door. When he sees movement in the house, he starts shouting … when Erin finally comes to the door (hopefully while calling the Police!):

Daniel to himself - Okay. Just act natural. She’s seen me now

(he’s scary…)

[Daniel] “Happy belated Christmas!”

[Erin] “Daniel, what you doing here. You can’t just turn up, you should have called or something”

He says he wanted to surprise her. Then begs to be let in. He has brought her Christmas presents.

[Daniel] “What’s the problem? Look, just give me 5 minutes”

I would have slammed the door in his face (harsh, but might have made the point, finally). But Erin lets him in.


Erin crashes Daniel’s world

[Daniel] “At least open the presents .. I’ve gone to all this effort”

[Erin] “Well you shouldn’t have. Just stop pushing me. I said in my text I couldn’t see you”

[Daniel] “Have I done something wrong? Cause if I have then I can fix it”

[Erin] “It isn’t you … you’re a really sweet guy”

[Daniel] “Sweet? So I never meant that much to you? It was only a game? … is there someone else? … just tell me the truth, please”

[Erin] “Then you’d better go and ask your dad …”

[Daniel] “My dad? What do you mean?”

[Erin] “He made a pass at me Dan. Why do you think I’ve been staying away? How could I keep seeing you after he … “

[Daniel] “Erin, tell me, what did he do?”

[Erin] “When we went to the Clinical Club together, outside at the pub,. He tried to kiss me … and at the Christmas concert he got me in a room with him during the interval …”

[Daniel] “No, he wouldn’t”

[Erin] “I’m not lying to you, you can see his texts … at first I thought he was just being nice because of the vets stuff, but then …”

Daniel – reading a text from Alistair to Erin - Hi Erin, just wanted to say how *fantastic you were. Wish I could take you *everywhere with me. Al (Daniel’s emphasis)

[Erin] “I’m sorry Dan, but what could I do? Your dad, he just wouldn’t leave me alone”

Amy crashes into Clive

[Amy to Clive] “You probably spent it in the gutter that’s where you belong … just leave me alone, or next time, I’ll call the Police”

As Amy starts to drive away, Clive is hammering on her car. She has to turn the car round to get out, which means having to go by Clive again (who is still shouting at her).

Then there’s a big thump.

A – to herself - Oh no no no no no no no. I didn’t … he just stepped out

[Amy] “Clive. Clive! We’re gonna need some help!”

Flipping ‘eck.

Amy Franks has gone and run over Clive Horrobin!

As she’s trying to get him to lie still, Clive is saying his chest hurts. And that he needs to get back because of his curfew. Amy put her jacket over him to keep him warm as she swears about help not coming fast enough (as she says to herself - at a hospital for god’s sake!)

[Clive] “Are they going to take me away? Cause of the video Crawford took?”

[Amy] “Matt?”

[Clive] “It wasn’t my fault, honest. He told me to lift the scrap … I only wanted to see me mum”

[Amy, sounding increasingly worried] “Can you tell me where you are?”

[Clive] “No. He picked me up his car . Always the same. Matt, George, dad, I were always to blame, even when I weren’t …”

[Amy] “Clive, don’t go to sleep!”

And she asks him to keep talking.

[Clive] “My dad. He was a git. Took his belt to me for messing with his shed. And the teachers. Horrible Horrobin. That’s all I’ve ever always been. The playground. The other kids. I couldn’t help it. Dad said, just stand up to them. Hit them harder. They all stayed away from me after that … don’t let them lock me up again”

[Amy] “It’s okay. They’re here to look after you”

So help has arrived.

Phew.

Course, we’re left wondering if Clive will survive. Will Amy get into trouble for running him over (though it was an accident – but will her previous behaviour towards him make folks think it was deliberate?)?

BUT – anyone else actually feel sorry for Clive? Did anything he said explain (though not excuse)?



Daniel opts out from Alistair

Alistair is home alone. He’s been on the phone to Shula, and is now thinking about trying to book accommodation for their Olympics trip.

Daniel walks in, and Alistair asks him whether he wants to make a proper holiday out of their trip.

[Daniel] “As if I’d go anywhere with you … you BASTARD! How could you? You make me sick. Don’t pretend you don’t know. What was it, some kind of midlife crises? You just couldn’t keep your hands off her … she was my girlfriend, my first proper girlfriend, and you …”

[Alistair] “What? What’s Erin told you?”

[Daniel] “It’s disgusting”

[Alistair] “Because I can promise you, whatever it is, it’s not true”

[Daniel] “You kissed her … and you forced yourself on her in a classroom at school”

[Alistair] “That’s a lie!”

[Daniel] “You’re the liar!”

[Alistair] “She’s the one that kissed me. She had a crush and though I felt the same”

[Daniel] “So what about the texts. Did she make those up?”

Alistair tries to explain that his texts are not the way they sound. That the whole’ fantastic” bit was him talking about how she charmed Mr Purves. That it was Erin who had insisted on staying late (etc).

But Daniel throws back to Alistair that he had talked him out of seeing Erin.

[Daniel] “You just wanted her for yourself”

[Alistair] “Now that’s ridiculous … I was trying to protect you… I knew what she was like “

[Daniel] “You just didn’t want me to find out your dirty little secret … You make my skin crawl … you better start packing your bags”

[Alistair] “There’s no way in this world I’d do something like that to you or your mum. Maybe I could have been more astute. But you’re right. I didn’t think a young girl like that would be interested in an old fart like me … and then she asked to spend more and more time with me, and telling me stuff … personal stuff … look, I know I should have nipped it in the bud but honestly I didn’t want you to get hurt … As soon as she did I told her that it was wrong, that nothing could happen between us”

[Daniel] “So all the time she was seeing me, it was an excuse to be with you?”

[Alistair] “I don’t know. I can’t explain what was going on in her head, all I can tell you is that I did nothing wrong to encourage her”

[Daniel] “Except for the texts”

[Alistair] “Oh for god’s sake. Have you any idea how serious this is for me? To have a 17 year old girl accuse me of kissing her or molesting her or god knows what else, because that’s what she was doing at the concert. That’s why I told your mum, you have to believe me”

[Daniel] “Well I don’t. You did see how upset she was, I had to force it out of her”

[Alistair] “I’m only telling the truth. She’s a fantasist. She’s not the girl you think she is”

[Daniel] “No. Don’t you dare. I’ve never felt about anyone the way I felt about Erin. She really liked me, even though I’m not like all the other lads .. .and now you’ve ruined everything. You might have managed to fool mum bit it won’t work on me”

[Alistair] “I’m not trying to fool anyone. Daniel please, I’m your father.”

[Daniel] “No you’re not,. And you never will be”

Blimey.

Shula does already know – Daniel’s mention of Alistair having to pack his bags was him threatening to tell his mum and get Alistair kicked out – but who will she side with?

She believes Alistair, but is angry that he kept his secret.

And now she had a devastated son.

Tricky.

I reckon Alistair does have to take a lot of the blame. He shouldn’t have been playing with kids …

Shula believes Alistair: Ambridge Extra Tuesday 20th December 2011

• Shula’s mood lifts
• Amy reads her mum’s letters
• Amy doesn’t accept Usha?
• Daniel’s playing with Jamie again
• Shula is a girl

Shula’s mood lifts

Shula still seems to be in a grump with Alistair, after he told her about Erin making advances. Shula’s angry that he kept it secret from her for a while.

Alistair – to himself - Fore heaven’s sake Shula – how many times – what does she want from me – is she going to keep this up forever – A

[Alistair] “Wait. Please. We can’t go on like this … you were the one who kept pushing for Erin to shadow me …”

[Shula] “So this is my fault? I also forced Erin to kiss you?”

Alistair tries to reason that he couldn’t tell Erin never to “darken their door”. Apart from anything else, she was Daniel’s girlfriend (kind of). Shula agrees with that.

Alistair also claims that he couldn’t tell her what was happening as he was embarrassed.

[Alistair] “I’m not denying she’s attractive, but she’s still a child. I didn’t want to humiliate her … she’s messed up … I tried to deal with it in a way that would cause the least amount of pain for everyone, you have to see that”

But they have to leave it there, as Daniel comes in. Shula is very keen that Daniel has no inkling of what’s going on.

When Alistair and Shula are alone again later on:

[Alistair] “You can’t honestly think I’d mess around with Erin behind your back. Well do you?”

[Shula] “No”

[Alistair] “So you believe me then?”

[Shula] “It’s not as simple as that. Of course I believe you. It still doesn’t change what she did though … dreading the next time she comes over … should I pretend that she didn’t make a pass at you, that she hasn’t been lying to Daniel and what if she does say something to him?”

[Alistair. Slightly smugly) “So you can see now what I’ve been dealing with!?”

So, should they also tell Daniel that his girlfriend has been coming on to his dad? Be better to hear it from them?

But, on the other hand, it’d knock Daniel’s already fragile confidence. And Daniel reckons it’s cooled off between them anyway – or, at least Erin seems to have cooled.

[Alistair] “She hasn’t said anything so far. We’ll just have to keep our fingers crossed that it stays that way”

Hmmm.

I still think Erin is a bunny boiler. And bunny boilers don’t give up that easily.


Amy reads her mum’s letters

Taking Usha’s advice, Alan shows Amy her mum’s letter (from when she was in Falconwood, a secure detention centre). Mabel (and I) think that she should have been left in ignorance.

But, Alan reckons Amy needs to know now so that they can talk it through. He doesn’t want her going through the same pain and confusion he had to.

But Amy is still obviously confused. More so about why her mum never told anyone the reason why she’s stabbed that other girl.

[Alan] “Mum was probably ashamed. She’d have been appalled by what she’d done”

As Amy is later out in her car:

Amy – to herself - How could they? She was 14. She was only a girl. And all that time, it was because of some bigot. Some snivelling coward who’s probably still around, still spreading her hate. The poor innocent victim who got stabbed by the black girl. I hope the knife damn well hurt

Amy’s so wound up that she nearly chases after a “wagon” (a large tuck, I’d assume, rather than a coach and horses …)

Amy – to herself - What am I doing? Pull over, I don’t even know what I’d do if I caught him. Oh mum. What happened? Why couldn’t you tell anyone? I am so sorry.

Wonder if Amy is going to hunt down the girl that was stabbed to get a final kick in the ribs for her mum …



Amy doesn’t accept Usha?

Still?

When Alan showed Amy her mum’s letters, and that he and Usha has to do some digging to find out the full story behind them, Amy responded:

[Amy] “You let Usha read these?”

How odd.

Is Amy still protective of her mum over Usha? From recent mutterings, Usha certainly seems to feel that Catherine is an unwelcome presence.


Daniel’s playing with Jamie again

Well, I don’t suppose it is ‘playing’ at their age. More hanging out.

Either way, he’s at Jamie’s today doing computer games.

Looks like they’ve made up.


Shula is a girl

Daniel has called, texted and posted message on Erin’s Facebook wall. But nothing.

As Shula comes into his room to find any neglected crockery, she asks him about Erin.

(eh? Shouldn’t she be avoiding that subject completely?)

[Daniel] “Mum, I think Erin’s gone off me … you’re a girl, what do you think I should do?”

[Shula] “I think you need to decide whether you want to be involved with someone who treats you that way … she’s sending you come pretty clear signals … Honesty love, I really don’t think Erin’s worth all this heartache”

Shula – to herself - He wants to know why, bless him. He thinks it’s all his fault

This is going to be a major explosion when it comes out … especially as Daniel doesn’t seem to be listening to reason.

Daniel – to himself - I love her, and I’d do anything. Make it a Christmas she won’t forget

Shula doesn’t seem to believe Alistair: Ambridge Extra Thursday 15th December 2011

• Daniels’ School Concert
• Was Alistair “grooming”?
• Usha really is jealous of Catherine
• Alistair tells all to Shula

Daniels’ School Concert

Shula and Alistair are in attendance, especially for Daniel doing a reading of Matthew chapter 1 verses 18-25.

But, Erin is also there, playing in the orchestra.

Alistair – to himself during Erin’s playing - Why does she have to be playing tonight. Isn’t it complicated, even with Daniel? Did she see me looking? Well what if she did, everyone else is too.
Good that Daniel doesn’t want us to bump into her either. If we can just get through the evening without any awkwardness. Terms ending, let it all die down. Let her just disappear out of our lives

Was Alistair “grooming”?

At the interval, Alistair goes to the toilet.

Erin’s waiting for him in the corridor when he comes out. She’s turned nasty:

[Erin] “Can’t keep your eyes off me, can you? I saw you all the way through the Beethoven, letching at me”

[Alistair] “I wasn’t”

[Erin] “How can you say you don’t want me, perving away with your wife sitting next to you?”

[Alistair] “For god sake, keep your voice down”

[Erin] “It’s pathetic”

Alistair drags her from the corridor to a room.

[Alistair] “Erin, I told you last week this is all in your head. I only helped you out because you wanted to be a vet”

[Erin] “Oh yeah, right. I know the difference between a bit of work experience and what you were doing”

[Alistair] “I wasn’t doing anything!”

[Erin] “Finding excuses to be with me …”

[Alistair] “That was you”

[Erin] “All those personal conversations, affectionate texts …”

[Alistair] “It was nothing like that”

[Erin] “There’s a name for that you know … grooming”

[Alistair] “That’s absurd! You were the one sending affectionate texts, you instigated most of the trips, look how you went on at my about coming to Clinical Club”

[Erin] “Only after you dangled the carrot. You knew just what you were doing. Except when it worked and I fell for it. You chickened out then, didn’t you … enjoyed a bit of an ego message then you got cold feet”

[Alistair] “It was nothing like that”

[Erin] “If people knew how you treated me …”

[Alistair] “Do you have any idea of the damage you could cause going around saying things like this? It’s just not true”

So – Alistair reckons it’s all been in Erin’s head – Erin reckons he led her on.

As we’ve heard what Alistair had been thinking about Erin – who do we side with?

On the one hand, Alistair did fancy her. And did want to spend time with her. But it felt like a crush on his side – that he wanted the flirt and the thrill, but didn’t actually want anything more.

Erin picked up on that, and is (rightly) angry that he’s now denying it and treating her like’s she’s the kid with the crush.

BUT, main thing for me is that Erin is the kid, Alistair the adult. Alistair should have known better and behaved more appropriately towards her. She’s right that is was his ego, and also right that it’s his fault.
We could expect Erin to be a bit more reasonable about Alistair rejecting her when it came down to it.

But, how much can we expect of a teenage girl? That’s why adults shouldn’t meddle with teenagers – they don’t have the experience, maturity or life reference to cope with this sort of situation.

Alistair didn’t let it get too far, but he let it get far enough. He’s now going to have to deal with the fall-out.

Alistair – to himself - It’s not going to go away, is it. I don’t know what to do … She really thinks I’ve led her on. This is beginning to feel out of control

Take it like an adult man, matey.


Usha really is jealous of Catherine

I was surprised to hear Usha agreeing with Alan that Amy should be told about Catherine’s juvenile incarceration. She claims she’s worried about Amy being more upset that Alan knew but chose not to tell her.

[Usha] “You’ve seen how the past can rear up out of nowhere, and with modern technology even more so … I’m much concerned about damaging her relationship with you”

So – as Alan knows, Amy should know that, and what, he knows.

I don’t agree, but good advice none-the-less.

Until we heard:

Usha – to herself - Please. Let’s get it all out in the open. Then maybe we can pout Catherine to rest once and for all

Wow.

Usha really does feel Catherine’s shadow looms large.


Alistair tells all to Shula

In a very brave (but right) move, Alistair asks Shula to sit down (when they get home) and tells her about Erin.

[Alistair] “There’s been a bit of trouble … it’s actually with Erin. The fact is, she’s developed a bit of a crush on me. And it came right out of the blue when, she tried to kiss me. She kissed me. After Clinical Club”

[Shula] “That was last week. And you’re just telling me now?”

[Alistair] “I thought I’d dealt with it. She turned up at Arnold Hamilton’s … she practically threw herself at me”

[Shula, her emphasis] “She threw herself at you?”

[Alistair] “Honestly I didn’t want it. I made it clear to her that I wasn’t interested”

(when someone says “honestly”, you know the exact opposite of what they’re about to say is the truth)

[Shula] “But, wait, you were at Arnold’s on …”

[Alistair] “Friday. And I know I should have told you.”

[Shula] “Damn right you should have told me!”

[Alistair] “But I didn’t want there to be any embarrassment…”

[Shula] “For you, you mean …”

[Alistair] “Not for anybody. You, Daniel … I thought when I told her she’d got it all wrong she’d just go away and forget all about it”

[Shula] “Which would have been very convenient for you!”

[Alistair] “But this evening, I bumped into her at the interval …”

[Shula] “Really, just by chance?”

[Alistair] “Yes, well I don’t know, she might have been waiting for me”

[Shula] “Or because you made an arrangement …”

[Alistair] “No. I was desperate not to see her”

[Shula] “Oh, so that’s why you rushed us home”

[Alistair] “Because now, she’s coming out with all these wild allegations. I needed to explain to you before, well the state she’s in,. I don’t know what she’s going to do … that I led her on, spent more time with her than was necessary … tonight, it looks like she’s developed an obsession”

[Shula, in disgust] “With you?!?”

[Alistair] “I’m not that repulsive am I?”

[Shula, beginning to get shouty] “You’re old enough to be her father!”

[Alistair] “I told her that. I said that I loved you and that it was unfair on Daniel”

[Shula] “And has anything happened between you?”

[Alistair] “No, she kissed me”

[Shula] “She actually kissed you?”

[Alistair] “Tried to, I mean she caught me by surprise”

[Shula] “Alistair, you’re saying you’ve done nothing you’re ashamed of …”

[Alistair] “Nothing”

(Alistair – to himself - Almost nothing)

[Shula] “So, if you’re completely innocent …”

[Alistair] “I am”

[Shula] “Why did you keep it a secret?”

And darn it all – the secret microphones were turned off before we could hear Alistair’s reply.

Shula was furious from the word go – and also didn’t seem to believe Alistair that it was all Erin. She’s obviously livid that he’s kept it a secret, but is also quite right in thinking that he’d have told her the moment it all started, if he had nothing to hide.

Problem is, Alistair did want to keep flirting with Erin. It’s only because Erin took him seriously that he’s in this mess.

If he wasn’t remotely interested in her, he’d have nipped it there and then, and told Shula.

Alistair hasn’t quite been caught with his pants down. He’s going to be hung for stealing a lamb rather than the whole flock. He’d have got the flock, if he wasn’t a half decent bloke …

Erin (possibly) dumps Daniel: Ambridge Extra Tuesday 13th December 2011

• Erin shall not go to the ball
• Demons, Devils and God
• Alistair looking out for himself?
• Shula’s made enough deserts to last until after New Year

Erin shall not go to the ball

Erin seems to be avoiding Daniel, and rushing away from him when he does catch her. She also doesn’t sound too keen to spend time with him over the holidays.

When he shows her a photo of him in his new dinner jacket, she says without much enthusiasm:

[Erin] “Yeah, you look nice”

[Daniel] “Okay to wear to the ball then?”

[Erin, with even less enthusiasm] “Fine”

She then drops the bombshell that she won’t be going to the ball.

[Erin] “Look Dan, I think we’d better forget it. I’m sorry. I’ve got to go.”

Daniel – to himself - Forget it … she just means the ball, doesn’t she? Doesn’t she?

Indeed Daniel. Stood up (with notice), or completely dumped?


Demons, Devils and God

Mabel tells Alan that she’s been feeling worse, and quite low, since he told her that Catherine had been bullied for a long time before she snapped and stabbed that girl.

[Alan] “I’m so sorry … I’d hoped it would help you come to terms with it. Finding out what motivated her”

[Mabel] “But why could Catherine never tell me about it. Was I such an ogre … she couldn’t tell her own mother but she could tell a stranger?”

So Alan gets on his bike (to drive up to see Mabel).

Mabel is worried that she was too stern with Catherine – which led to Catherine never telling her about the bullying as it was happening, or the real reason why she ended up in a secure home.

[Mabel] “With no man in the house, I had to be father and mother to her … I looked around, I saw lax parenting, children going off the rails, it starts with answering back, and staying out late, and I didn’t want my Catherine going that way … and then she did something worse, much worse … to take that knife and hurt that girl so badly … the shame, it was almost more than I couldn't bear .. and Catherine know it, she could see the shame in me, no wonder she couldn’t bring herself to confide in me”

[Alan] “Perhaps she just needed to say it once. Whatever she did, it wasn’t because she didn’t love you … she want to extremes to protect you … in some way, she was still trying to protect you even when after she was released … I’m sure she talked about it to God, of course, her faith was so strong”

[Mabel] “But at the time the Church wasn’t much help at all … folk I thought were my friends, who I’d stood with and sung with and worshipped with, they didn’t want to know me no more. There was talk of the demons that had got into Catherine, how the devil had her doing his work, and all the time the finger pointing at me … it wasn’t just the church, I’d see people talking about me when I went to the shop, to work …”

So Mabel moved her and Catherine from London to Bradford. To make a fresh start.

[Alan] “Mabel, society in those days was very rigid, more judgemental … but through it all, God know the truth. He knew how complex the picture was. He loved you both. And he still does”

And they pray together.

Whether you have faith or not, it’s at moments like these when faith can heal and join folks together. Mabel feels better, and feels the whole saga has been “put to bed”.

BUT, Alan still wants to tell Amy.

Thankfully, Mabel disagrees. She’s glad Amy knows nothing about the letters, about the secure home, about Alan’s recent anguish.

[Mabel] “And that’s a blessing isn’t it? If the ear don’t hear, the heart done grieve”

Alistair looking out for himself?

Daniel gets in from school.

Alistair – to himself - He doesn’t look very happy … is it Erin, I wonder? Has she said anything?

Alistair later braves going into Daniel’s room to talk to him.

[Daniel] “I think it might be over between me and Erin”

Alistair – to himself - Oh lord

But not to worry Alistair – it’s not over you. As far as Daniel knows …

He tells Alistair that she’s been funny for a few days. And about how she said:

[Daniel] “…we should forget it … seems she was dumping me”

[Alistair] “Did she say anything else, any reason why?”

[Daniel] “No … And I was never quite sure if I was doing it right … I mean, being a boyfriend. Is it something I’ve done, or not done, or done too much too much or not enough?”

[Alistair] “Daniel I’m sure it’s not you. Relationships can be a minefield … sometimes you just have to accept that you’re not the right people for each other … just accept it’s over, think fondly of the good times, and move on”

Alistair was muttering in his head that he was sticking the knife in by agreeing with Daniel that he thinks it’s over between them.

Alistair – to himself - causing him this pain. So unnecessary

[Alistair] “Don’t worry. You will find someone more right for you”

So it’s a big sigh of relief for Alistair. And he agrees with Daniel that they won’t tell Shula as yet – Daniel wants a bit of time to deal with it himself before he has to deal with his mum being disappointed.

She later mentions that she’s looking forward to meeting Erin’s parents at tomorrow’s school concert.

So that’s two things he’s hiding from his wife.

Still think Erin is a bunny boiler … if she has dumped Daniel, it would suggest she only went out with him in the first place to get close to Alistair. Calculating and a bit cold …


Shula’s made enough deserts to last until after New Year

Well done Shula.

And she lets Daniel have a can of cider.

Rock n’ roll indeedy.

Alan is relieved, Alistair in terrors: Ambridge Extra Thursday 8th December 2011

• It wasn’t Catherine’s fault
• Shula has run out of cheese
• Alistair not interested now it’s on a plate …

It wasn’t Catherine’s fault

Alan’s round to see Mrs Janice Peblo. She worked in Falconwood, and Catherine always spoke of her as someone who had helped her.

Though Janice had agreed to see Alan, she’s unsure about how appropriate it would be to tell him all the detail. As Catherine didn’t tell him, Janice is unsure it’d be right for her to do so.

But, as Alan points out, he now knows something because of the letters. She leaving him with only half the story wouldn’t be fair (or what Catherine would have wanted?).

[Alan] “At the moment all I know is the very bare bones and I’m having great difficulty reconciling that with the woman I loved … something hellish happened to her … I just have to understand”

Janice decides that she should tell Alan, and starts with what Catherine was like when she arrived at the secure home.

[Janice] “Very withdrawn for most of the time … post-traumatic stress …”

[Alan] “Did you glean any indication of where this violence came from?”

[Janice] “Well, given what she’s been through, any one of us might … do you mean you don’t know? …This girl she’d attacked. She’d made Catherine’s life a misery for years … racist abuse, not just aimed at Catherine but at her mother too”

[Alistair] “I don’t think Mabel knew anything about this”

This other girl had been calling Catherine names, scribbling on her desk, making monkey noises … escalating up to more physical and threatening behaviour when they got older.

[Janice] “This girl was talking about bleaching Catherine and her mum … I’ve seen a few black kids trying to do it to themselves”

So, Catherine and this girl were in domestic science, and the girl came at Catherine with a bottle of bleach. Catherine “flipped” and grabbed the first thing to hand. A kitchen knife.

[Janice] “It’s a cliché, but I don’t think Catherine was doing until it was over”

So – Catherine was defining herself and her mum. But she never told the Police about why she attacked the girl, as she didn’t want to have to relive it all again. She preferred to go to a secure home, with everyone thinking she was violent for no apparent reason.

[Alan] “Now I know what she’s been through, I feel humbled by the strength she showed … to move on and make a normal life for herself.”

And Alan can also ease Mabel’s guilt – there wasn’t anything ‘wrong’ with her daughter.

BUT now Alan is again on about wanting to tell Amy.

Oh for pity sake, Alan.

For a man of such sound common sense, why can’t you leave it be? You had to be told because you find the letters – why can’t Amy be left in peace? Or, do you think Amy will see this as another example of how wonderful her dear (departed) mum was?

What’s the point?


Shula has run out of cheese

So she asks Alistair to pick some up.

She also starts trying to talk to him about her mum being worried about Christmas – because of Elizabeth and David’s continued fall-out.

But Alistair isn’t listening, and hangs up quite abruptly.

Erin has arrived …


Alistair not interested now it’s on a plate …

Erin turns up as Alistair has made his last call. She’s been to his office, found out where he was, and knows he hasn’t got an excuse of work to not go out with her.

[Erin] “We could have a good time together. You’re so fit and clever!”

[Alistair] “Erin, get off!”

(one assumes she was trying to get intimate with him there and then)

[Erin] “I just want you all the time!”

[Alistair] “You’ve a very nice person but I’ve only ever seen you as Daniel’s girlfriend or as someone who’s interested in becoming a vet …”

[Erin] “Don’t give me that, I’ve seen the signs!”

[Alistair] “There weren’t any signs. I’ve never shown any indication that I think of you that way”

But Erin (and Alistair) know that’s a porky. Erin has seen Alistair looking at her in ‘that way’.

[Alistair] “You’re a very pretty girl, any man would have …”

[Erin] “Oh come on. I know you want to!”

[Alistair] “I absolutely don’t feel that way about you”

Alistair reckons Erin caught him by surprise when she kissed him the other day, and that it was most definitely her kissing him. But we, of course, know different, as we can hear Alistair’s mind …

[Erin] “We can go somewhere now. Anywhere you like”

[Alistair] “I’m a married man!”

[Erin] “That doesn’t matter”

[Alistair] “Believe me it does, you’re young enough to be my …”

Which Erin doesn’t want to hear. She reckons age doesn’t matter.

[Alistair] “What you’re feeling. It’s not real. People your age, sometimes they get a crush, and there’s nothing wrong with that and it has to stay a fantasy thing”

Erin thinks she would make him happy. Alistair wants Erin to leave him alone, as she’s got it all wrong. So he drives off.

When at home, he’s hit the wine.

Alistair – to himself - How on earth could she have though … I didn’t encourage her, did I … you haven’t done anything wrong. Just hope she’d got the message now. Daniel! I can’t see them staying together now. And the ball … 

Shula comes in

Alistair – to himself - Should I tell her?

He’s forgotten the cheese.

Alistair – to himself - You could just tell her why you forgot …Could just get it all into the open …

As Shula witters on about how she wishes she was sipping exotic cocktails like Jennifer probably is, rather than drinking “bargain bin cabernet” …

Alistair – to himself - No. Least said soonest mended

Hmmm. Anyone else think Erin’s going to turn out to be a bunny boiler?

Ambridge Extra Tuesday 6th December 2011: Alistair! What on earth are you doing!!?

• Alan’s hard to buy for
• Red tape is God’s will?
• Alistair has ‘the talk’ with Daniel
• The Franks’ tree is too big
• Inappropriateness at the Clinical Club
• Alan’s won’t went it go

Alan’s hard to buy for 

[Usha] “If you ask him, he just says there’s nothing he needs”

Amy’s also stuck. She was thinking a bottle, but reckons it’s not very imaginative.

Usha suggests to Amy that she gets him a new version of his favourite shirt, which is frayed.

Which leaves her with no ideas for her own present.

Well, what can you give a man who has God?


Red tape is God’s will?

Usha hasn’t made any progress on finding out why Catherine had been in a secure institution. Too much red tape.

[Alan] “I wonder … is this god’s way of telling me I should leave it?”

Maybe.

Usha later tells him that there will be little chance of them being able to access the formal records.


Alistair has ‘the talk’ with Daniel

Alistair’s helping Daniel to buy his first dinner jacket.

To a background of Wonderful Christmas Time (I do like that Christmas ditty – for some reason, the very badly shot video in the pub with Paul, Lynda and co make me happy).

[Alistair] “My first DJ … braid on the lapels I looked like a dodgy Spanish gigolo”

Then Alistair picks his moment:

[Alistair] “On the subject of Erin ... she’s a very attractive girl … and you’re obviously getting on well ... I know you’re a sencible lad, but sometimes it can be easy to get carroed away … in the heat of the moment …”

[Daniel] “Like when you’re watching spot?”

[Alistair] “I was thinking of more when you’re together, the two of you …”

[Daniel] “Ah, you mean me going on about the environment; she quite likes that really ...”

Ah, but cheeky Daniel is just winding Alistair up.

[Daniel] “It’s alright dad, I know what you’re getting at. And I’ll be careful.”

[Alistair] “Well, thank god that’s over”

[Daniel] “Absolutely”

The Franks’ tree is too big

Actually, it’s a monster.

Alan might even have to cut the top off.

Amy gives Usha the first thing to hang on it. Which is nice.

And then she finds the star that her mum (Catherine) had made. Seems they always used to put it on the tree together.

Alistair – to himself - Catherine’s like a saint to Amy … how can I shatter her memory. It’s all she’s got

Just don’t tell her Alan. Mabel’s right. Leave it be.


Inappropriateness at the Clinical Club

Alistair’s at the Clinical Club with Erin.

Supper and veterinary cases. He certainly knows how to treat a girl (a girl going out with his son …).

Alistair – to himself – wonder what the barmaid thinks. Buying drinks for a pretty women … oh get real. She probably thinks she’s your daughter.

After the supper and veterinary cases.

[Erin] “That was brilliant, who’d have though that a cow could have a facelift … and cat TB!”

Her cup overfloweth!

[Erin] “You’ve been wonderful … you are wonderful”

And …. They kiss.

Alistair – to himself - Lovely … ah, so fresh … so, ……… no!

[Alistair] “No. No this is wrong. Erin, we mustn’t”

Goodness me Alistair! What are you doing?


Alan’s won’t went it go

He’s back on the phone to Mabel.

Mabel admits she was angry with Alan the other day. But that it also was not his fault once he’d found the letters.

Alan’s not begging for her help.

[Alan] “Catherine lives with me every day, and I have to understand what made her behave in such an alien way”

Mabel then remembers that Catherine trusted a Mrs Peblo who worked at the ‘home’. And Alan remembers a Janice Peblo that Catherine used to be fond of.

Watch about Janice Peblo.

Alan’s not leaving this one until he has answers.

Ambridge Extra Thursday 1st December: Alan married an ice axe murderer

(slight poetic licence there – actually, Alan married a knife wielding GBH)

• Erin excited by doing a Ewe caesarean
• “not my Catherine!”
• £75, standing too close and 6 lambs
• The Clinical Club

Erin excited by doing a Ewe caesarean

Each to their own.

Though Erin may also be excited about seeing Alistair, she also seems to be rubbing along well with Daniel.

Alistair – to himself - great to see them joking together. All that worry over nothing

Erin scrubs up, and goes to take her top off.

Alistair – to himself – what!

[Erin, obviously seeing Alistair, and probably Daniel’s, discomfort] “It’s okay, I’ve got a t-shirt underneath”

Alistair – to himself - clam down Alistair

Enter the Ewe.

[Erin] “Hello Madam!”

And Daniel leaves them to it to do his homework.

Alistair – to himself – we’ll be fine

“not my Catherine!”

Alan’s driven up to see Mabel in Bradford.

(I do love a bit of Mabel)

Mabel first gives him a row about his motorbike. She doesn’t think it’s safe.

Then Alan asks her about Falconwood and Catherine letters to Mabel’s sister.

[Mabel] “I wouldn’t know about that”

Which isn’t true, as Alan had also found a Falconwood letter from Catherine to Mabel. And also the release paperwork for Catherine. It said:

[Alan, quoting from the release paperwork] “Catherine would be released because she now posed no threat to herself or to others”

[Mabel] “This is all in the past. Can’t you let sleeping dogs lie? … why do you want to go raking this up”

[Alan] “She was my wife … you’ve got to be honest with me.”

[Mabel] “She was 14. There was a girl in her class at school, Catherine attacked her … stabbed … it was bad. Very. They called it grievous bodily harm. She spent two years in that place”

[Alan] “What on earth happened?”

[Mabel, while starting to cry] “I don’t know., She wouldn’t say … it just wasn’t her,. She would never. Not my Catherine,. She was never violent … she never did anything like that before or since, And when she came out she never spoke about it,. We tried to put it behind it, but it broke my heart. My sweet little Catherine”

Later on:

[Alan] “I must admit I still don’t know how to react .. .why didn’t you tell me about this?”

[Mabel] “It wasn’t my story to tell … What? I could have told you a secret she took to the grave? And how would that have helped”

[Alan] “I’d have known the truth”

[Mabel] “What truth? This one thing she did before she met you, or all the years she loved and cared for you”

[Alan] “They’re both the truth”

[Mabel] “You want me to betray her memory and change the way you feel about her forever?”

[Alan] “I’d still have loved her”

Mabel thinks her sister, Annie, should have burned the letters.

[Alan] “I feel like I’ve been kept in the dark by the whole family … it’s like I couldn’t be trusted to cope with the secret”

[Mabel] “We were protecting Catherine”

[Alan] “Don’t you think I wanted to protect her too?”

[Mabel] “And this is how you’re doing it? By dragging up the past, dirtying her memory? … she put that dreadful time behind her, and you should too”

Mabel offers Alan to stay, but he wants to head off.

They leave each other on good times, with Mabel saying she’ll be praying for Alan and Usha.

Alan starts motorbiking back:

Alistair – to himself - what a mess. How on earth could she? It’s inconceivable. My Catherine. To take a knife and harm another human being. I just can’t … I could have helped her. You can’t lock that sort of thing away and not affect you. The cancer … was is stress living with that dreadful memory. Catherine, why didn’t you trust me? Did you think I didn’t love you enough. That I couldn’t have coped with it. Amy, how will she feel. She idolises her mother. What would this to do her. Oh lord, what should I do?

I’d reckon that he shouldn’t tell Amy, for a start.

I quite agree with Mabel that there’s nothing to be gained from dragging this all back up – even though it’s different for a husband than for a daughter. And anyway – it’s academic in Alan’s case. He’d already seen the letters.


£75, standing too close and 6 lambs

Erin was asking Alistair how much he’ll charge the farmer for doing the caesarean on the Ewe.

Seems it’s £75, including drugs.

Erin reckons that isn’t much, but as Alistair explains:

[Alistair] “the farmer has to account for the age of the ewe and how much make on lambs”

So there’s always haggling with farmers. Though I reckon it is cheap for 7+ years of studying and professional expertise.

As Erin helps Alistair with the operation, seems she’s standing very close to him:

Alistair – to himself - god that’s close … is she? … not, she’s just interested in the op. Concentrate

Alistair does manage to pull himself together to deliver 6 (yes, a whopping 6!) lambs. All of who came out alive.


The Clinical Club

Which isn’t like the Clap Clinic as I first thought.

It’s a Club where vets meet up to talk shop. Have supper. Hear from a speaker, or talk about interesting cases.

Alistair mentioned that he’d bring up his 6 lamb caesarean, and Erin sound very interested in the club.

So Alistair invites her along.

What is that man thinking?

If he does truly suspect that Erin is trying to come onto him, why encourage her?

If he thinks it’s all in his head, why encourage himself?

Then again, maybe Alistair is enjoying the flirt. Without admitting it to himself.

Either which way - dangerous stuff indeed.

Ambridge Extra Tuesday 29th November 2011: A shock from the past for Alan

(which isn’t fair. Alan deserves only sunshine and happy faces)

• Daniel shall go to the ball
• When salmon isn’t fish
• Welcome to Ambridge Extra, Usha and Alan!
• Letters from the past
• Just middle aged ego?
• Usha reckons praying isn’t going to solve it
• Egypt isn’t well
• Daniel’s going to get the parental sex talk
• The truth about Catherine

Daniel shall go to the ball

Daniels’ mate Gav wants to go to the New Year’s Seniors ball. And he wants them to have dates. So he’s pushing Daniel to ask Erin. As Ellie Henderson blew Gav out. And Gav will have a better chance of finding another date if Daniel has a date. (or something like that)

[Gav] “I went out on a limb and she took a chainsaw to it!”

So Daniel asks Erin.

She at first reckons she might be away with her folks (skiing), but later tells him that they’re going in February, so she can with Daniel.

He’s over the moon.


When salmon isn’t fish

[Erin] “I didn’t think you ate fish due to the threat to the global fish stocks”

[Daniel] “Eh. This is salmon,. It’s farmed. Although there are some environmental downsides …”

Welcome to Ambridge Extra, Usha and Alan!

Excellent.

If Ambridge Extra achieves nothing else, it has at least given us back a bit more time with Usha and Alan (especially Alan).

Thank goodness someone did think to stop having so many of the hidden microphones pointed at just youngsters …


Letters from the past

Alan’s looking through letters from Amy’s great aunt (who recently died). They’re all from his first wife Catherine (who died a fair while back).

He at first thinks Catherine was writing to her aunt while she was on holiday. The letters had Falconwood at the top, which Alan reckoned was probably a holiday camp or a B&B.

[Usha] “You don’t feel it’s prying a bit?”

Usha – to herself - into you late wife’s business … I wonder if he’d be as keen to read my childhood letters?

(eh? Is Usha jealous of Alan’s dead wife?)

As Alan reads on, Catherine makes mention of some girls getting into a fight, and one of them ending up in hospital. Then how she was punished for not making her bed right. And then how one of the girls tried to run away.

[Alan] “This Falconwood place must have been some sort of institution .. Catherine must have been there for at least a year … I had no idea … what on earth could have happened to her?”

Oo-er. Very mysterious indeed.


Just middle aged ego?

[Alistair to Shula] “I’m a bit concerned about Erin”

Alistair – to himself - and what she’s up …

He claims that he’s worried about her taking time off school to go on his rounds.

[Shula] “She’s not been a nuisance, has she?”

Alistair – to himself - not that way …

[Alistair] “Would you say she’s a bit over attentive?”

Shula thinks Alistair means Daniel, which leaves Alistair wondering whether he has to spell it out to her …

(um, yes!)

Alistair – to himself - or is this just middle aged ego. Do I want her to fancy me? Should I show her  (Shula) that text. Or, would she just laugh at me? Get a grip on yourself. It’s your imagination. If she’s going to that with him …

In fact, Alistair is so (outwardly) delighted that Erin and Daniel are going to the ball, he even offers to pay. And to help Daniel choose his first dinner suit.

Alistair – to himself - thank goodness for that 

Hmmm. Does any one of us believe Erin has any intention of focusing on Daniel over Alistair? It’s all just a game …


Usha reckons praying isn’t going to solve it

Alan’s still pondering Catherine’s letters.

[Alan] “Whatever it was, it must have been a huge episode in her life”

[Usha] “What are you going to do?”

[Alan] “Pray, obviously”

[Usha] “And speak to Mabel …”

[Alan] “I’m not sure about that. It’s what I need guidance on”

Alan’s worried that Catherine’s spell in (what he assumes was) an institution might have been down to some sort of failing in Mabel as a parent.

Usha – to herself - this is going to eat away at him. I don’t think just praying is the answer

Egypt isn’t well

According to Shula, Egypt is “out of sorts”.

Lucky horse to have Alistair on call.

Daniel’s going to get the parental sex talk

Alistair and Shula think Erin must be serious about Daniel.

[Shula] “I’ve been wondering about sex …”

[Alistair] “Well, that’s a better offer than a cup of tea!”

[Shula] “I wonder if it might be an idea to have a little talk with Daniel about taking precautions”

Alistair tries to wriggle out of it by saying that Daniel will surely have done that at school.

[Shula] “I’m sure Daniel understands”

[Alistair] “The mechanics …”

[Shula] “So a gentle reminder about being sensible …”

[Alistair] “Not getting carried away in the heat of the moment …”

So Alistair is tasked with (talking about) doing the deed.

Poor Daniel. That’s going to be quite embarrassing, really.


The truth about Catherine

Alan comes back in from work to find Usha asking him to sit down.

She’s been doing a bit of research on Falconwood (in-between getting her client a ‘not-guilty’ )

[Usha] “This is going to come as a shock Alan. It was a children’s home. But it was a secure home … I’m sorry Alan … I don’t think Katherine was simply taken into care”

[Alan] “What are you saying? That she might have committed a crime?”

Usha reckons (in her solicitor type way) that Catherine must have been found guilty of something, but that doesn’t necessarily mean she did the crime. Mistakes happen.

She suggests they look into old newspaper articles to see if they can out what happened.

[Alan] “I don’t want to learn about Katherine through some ancient press cuttings. I need to see Mabel”

Blimey.

Any guesses?

Ambridge Extra Tuesday 22nd November 2011: Erin declares for Alistair

• What’s Erin playing at?
• Actually, what’s Alistair playing at?
• Clive. Signing ‘Bad to the Bone’. Badly
• A poisoned budgie
• A film or dogs eating curry?
• Clive on the rob

What’s Erin playing at?

Daniel reckons she’s been avoiding him since they snogged last week.

Which sounds true enough, as they haven’t seen each other. But:

[Erin] “Come on Dan, don’t start freaking out on me now”

But he calms down when Erin says that she “can’t wait” to come over his tomorrow.

Which is a same on Daniel. As it sounds like Erin is more excited about shadowing Alistair than spending time with his son …


Actually, what’s Alistair playing at?

… as we know is the case when Alistair gets a text from Erin.

[Erin text] “Are we still on for tomorrow? Can’t wait to see you”

Alistair – to himself - Don’t flatter yourself Alistair. She can’t like you like that

This is getting quite bizarre.

Alistair then asks Daniel if Erin has been asking about her visits to them.

How creepy.

Alistair then decides that he’ll text something formal.

[Alistair text] “That’ll be fine”

This really makes for uncomfortable eavesdropping.


Clive. Signing ‘Bad to the Bone’. Badly

That’s all I have to say on that.


A poisoned budgie

[Erin] “It was funny. It wasn’t her budgie who needed treatment!”

Seems Erin and Alistair went on a home visit to a woman who has poisoned her budgie with chocolate chip cookies.

That’s not funny.

They should have removed that budgie without any further questions.

Poor budgie.


A film or dogs eating curry?

Erin chose to stay and talk to Alistair about a dog eating curry, rather than take Daniel up on his offer to watch a film in his room.

Alistair spots there’s a bit of tension, so leaves them to it (grudgingly so, I’m sure).

But Erin then makes to leave. She reckons she has stuff to do.

[Daniel] “No. I get it. It doesn’t matter. So will you be coming over gain. I mean to shadow my dad”

(oh how close to the truth was Daniel! This is not going to be a good thing for anyone).

Before Erin does leave, she snogs Daniel.

But later texts Alistair:

[Erin text] “Had a fab time with you today. Can’t stop thinking about when I can come over again. I’m free next Thursday. Text me back xx “

Alistair – to himself – oh no

Hmmm.

I don’t think Alistair was too displeased about Erin’s text. He’d just finished talking to Daniel about how mature Erin was …

… course, this could all just be a mistake. Maybe Erin has just mistaken Alistair’s number for Daniel’s?

Probably not …


Clive on the rob

Clive has ‘stolen’ all of the metal from Matt’s house development.

He gets away without being spotted or chased, and once gets to the lock up calls Bernie.

All going to plan?

Ambridge Extra Thursday 17th November 2011: Alistair and Erin … odd

• Clive’s plans gang aft agley
• What did Matt get in the post?
• Hope Daphne the cat was okay
• It’s all inappropriate, Alistair
• Lilian ready to call the Police

Clive’s plans gang aft agley

Clive needs to be on site at Matt’s development if he’s going to be able to steal the metal. Matt knows about it, but has distanced himself to the point where Clive is very much on his own. Matt just wants the cash at the end.

So Clive is panicked when he’s laid off from the job. There isn’t enough work for him. How will he steal the metal if he doesn't work there?

Am I being thick? Couldn't Clive just break in? As per?


What did Matt get in the post?

He was very cagey about it.

He tried to get to the post first, but Lilian beat him to it. She thought it might be a present for her Christmas, but Matt claimed it was “kit” for the office. A webcam for video conferencing. Even though they never do video conferencing.

What’s he up to now?


Hope Daphne the cat was okay

Seems so. Alistair seemed to be quite happy with her progress.


It’s all inappropriate, Alistair

What on earth is Alistair thinking about? Though we can hear his thoughts (still don’t understand how that works), it really doesn’t make any sense.

He’s early awaiting Erin turning up at his surgery. She’s still shadowing him.

Alistair – to himself - Is that her? She is stunning

(hmmm …)

Erin then stroked Alistair by mistake. Ones hopes it was just his hand – she was aiming for the cat.

(hmmm …)

Erin also wants to make her shadowing it a regular thing.

(hmmm …)

Erin starts talking to Alistair about Daniel,

[Erin] “He’s very shy, isn’t he? Quiet. He’s not had many girlfriends, has ne? He’s just not like other lads I know … he’s just really different”

Which Erin reckons is a good thing. Kind of.

[Alistair] “Look I know I’m obviously biased, Daniel’s a special boy. He’s kind. Thoughtful. I’m really proud of him”

And then (there’s more!) Erin starts opening up to Alistair. Telling him about her home life, how her dad left when she was wee, and the like.

Alistair – to himself - Why is she telling me this. She’s lovely, but this feels like too much 

(eh? Does Alistair think she’s cracking onto him?)

[Erin] “It’s funny. I suppose I’ve always felt an adult, even when I was little”

(hmmm …)

Alistair – to himself - maybe she just wants to talk. This isn’t appropriate. I can’t be her confidant.

(why not? Does he just want to be physical? Or, is it because she’s kind-of Daniel’s girlfriend?)

[Erin] “You know, you’re a lot Dan. At least you’ve got similar eyes. They are the same gorgeous blue”

Alistair - to himself - okay that’s crossed the line

(what? The she though Alistair was Daniel’s biological dad, which he tells her he isn’t, or that she called his eyes “gorgeous?”)

After telling Erin that he adopted Daniel.

[Erin] “That makes a lot of sense … you’re so much more …”

Alistair – to himself – what?

But Erin does say what Alistair is “so much more”

I’m confused.

What’s Alistair thinking? Is he wrestling with the fact that Erin is a young lass, and going out with his son – so off limits. Or, is he attracted but worried that Erin feels the same, and is worried about something happening? Does he want something to happen?


Lilian ready to call the Police

After trying to call matt without success (doesn’t Clive ever take a hint?), he turns up at the Dower House.

Lilian is not amused.

[Lilian] “Matt … you get him out of here ...you know you shouldn’t be here … are you going to get rid of him. Matt, I’ve had enough of him.”

Matt takes Clive outside, and tells him where to sling it. Clive wants Matt to get him his job back at the site. But Matt isn’t interested.

[Matt] “I’ve got to sort Lilian out now, and it’s not just her who doesn’t want you around”

When Matt gets back in, Lilian is ready to call the Police. Clive is hanging around on is mobile to someone.

[Lilian] “He needs permission … what if he comes back, or goes on a rampage round the village?”

She won’t even let Matt leave the house. If he does, she will call the Police on Clive.

[Lilian] “You may think you’re honouring some ex convict’s code …”

[Matt] “You have to let me deal with this in my own way. I wouldn’t let anything happen to you. I promise, pussycat, I’ve got it under control”

Methinks Matt speaks too soon. Clive was already on the phone trying to work out how he can get all of the metal on his own. Dodgy. Trouble surely is ahead.

Ambridge Extra Tuesday 15th November 2011: Daniel nearly becomes a man

• The French Lieutenant's Woman
• Not a special birthday
• That Erin is a bit of a …
• Matt’s a one-man Clive cheerleader
• Daniel’s big moment!
• Matt doesn’t want to be seen with Clive
• Nope. No moment for Daniel
• Alistair texting Erin

The French Lieutenant's Woman

Is what Daniel’s studying for English.

[Daniel] “Notions of destiny, identity and freewill”

He may be a bit odd, but sounds like Daniel isn’t dim.

Unless he was writing straight from York’s Notes …


Not a special birthday

Seems Erin looked “hot” at Daniel’s birthday. She was wearing shorts (in this weather! … is what my gran would have said). But Daniel was left wishing he’d “done something”, especially as he thinks she might have wanted him to.

He reckons he’s blown it.

Later on, Erin tells him she wishes his birthday had gone a bit long.

So technically, Daniel did make a hash of it.

But not to worry. Erin takes charge.


That Erin is a bit of a …

… confident young lady who knows what she wants.

Good on her.

She invites Daniel round to hers, as her mum is out. So they can have the place to themselves.

Daniel thinks to himself that he might not have blown it at his birthday.

Ya think, Daniel?

Maybe he’s just academically not dim …


Matt’s a one-man Clive cheerleader

Lilian’s laying it on thick about how awful Clive has been since Ivy died.

[Lilian] “I’m not sure what’s worse, then he talked his poor father into giving them or he tried to pass them off to poor Kylie … if he’s prepared to do that to his own family.

“At least someone’s got the courage send Clive packing … and his sister of all people!

“Don’t you see? You’re the only one who wants anything to do with him!”

But Matt isn’t listening. He leaves rather than to suffer anymore of Lilian’s (quite right and reasonable) chat about Clive.

Matt isn’t exactly Clive’s best friend, but he does know he can turn Clive’s talent for being one step adrift of the law to his own advantage.


Daniel’s big moment!

At Erin’s, she tells Daniel where to sit, then squeezes in next to him.

Daniel – to himself - say something

[Daniel] “I like your wallpaper”

Daniel – to himself - wallpaper, what are you talking about!

Erin then tells him she wanted his birthday to go on longer. Then she tucks her feet under his legs.

They start play fighting,

Daniel – to himself - go on, do it … I can smell her skin

But Erin has to spell it out. She’s telling Daniel about her friends talking about him.

[Erin] “They want to know what you’re like. So do I. Well. Are you going to kiss me or not?”

[Daniel] “Yeah. Well. Sorry”

[Erin] “Come here!”

And then – and I kid you not – the background music rises into a crescendo.

Ugh.

As if it wasn’t uncomfortable enough listening to two teens getting ‘close’.


Matt doesn’t want to be seen with Clive

Clive’s been trying to get the metal out of the house Matt’s been doing up.

But there’s other workmen around.

And while he has a truck, he can’t get a lockup.

And, the job is also happening too fast for him to sort himself out.

[Clive] “We have to talk. You need to slow things down”

Matt tells him to shut his mouth.

[Matt] “Whatever you need to do, just do it. I don’t want to know. I don’t want us seen talking”

Then Matt tells Clive he knows about Ivy’s rings, and how he basically stole them.

[Matt] “if you can do that to your old dad, you can do this”

That’s him told.


Nope. No moment for Daniel

Daniel – to himself – is this right? … I’m not sure … perhaps I’m supposed to … s’aright, close your eyes … not sure if she’s expecting me to … woah, okay, maybe she does … great legs … come on, just go with it … move your hands a bit higher … okay, maybe a bit more

Erin stops him, but it’s only because Daniel is leaning on her. She asks him to put his hand back where it was and to stop apologising so much. – leaning on her, wants his hand back – stop apologising

Daniel – to himself - okay, so this could be it, it’ll be fine

But alas – they hear the door slam. It’s probably Erin’s mum.

[Erin] “Quick. Do your shirt back up”

Daniel then (rather ungallantly) suggests they drive somewhere to carry on.

That’ll be his trousers speaking.

[Daniel] “Just as long as. Was that okay?”

[Erin] “Yeah, yeah of course. That was lovely”

Never mind Daniel.

I’m sure Erin will lead you through it all again soon


Alistair texting Erin

That's just wrong.

Ambridge Extra Thursday 10th November 2011: Happy Birthday for Clive

(he is easily pleased …)

• Stealing scrap metal … how schemie
• Something inappropriate about to happen between Alistair and Erin?
• Flukes are not funny
• Clive only has to dangle to get Matt

Stealing scrap metal … how schemie

Clive really has no class.

He has a proposal for Matt.

It involves Matt taking him on to strip the metal out of a house he’s developing. Once it’s stripped, Clive breaks in to steal it. Matt claims on insurance, Clive sells the metal and splits the cash from that with Matt.

Clive - to himself – oh come on, give me a break, it’s my birthday

What a piece of work. No one to share a birthday with – no one cares – so all he’s got is a possible scam.


Something inappropriate about to happen between Alistair and Erin?

First it was Erin, going on about talking about driving tight lanes (!)

Then we hear Alistair talking to himself that it’s okay if she answers her phone – it doesn’t mean he’s boring her.

And then, Erin says she’s going to give Daniel a night he “won’t forget” for his birthday.

That nearly made Alistair miss his turn when driving.

And finally – when they part for the day (Erin was helping Alistair on his rounds after Shula suggested it – Erin wants to be a vet) – Alistair reflects to himself that Erin really is a charming young girl … as she’s leaving, he calls her back to ask her to come with him again.

Is it just me – or are there funny things afoot?


Flukes are not funny

Certainly not to sheep.

Mr Purves’ sheep has them.

Seems sheep ingest them, the flukes tunnel thought gut wall and get into the liver.

Nasty.

Alistair reckons it’s because Mr Purves grazed his sheep on wet marshy land. And now some of his sheep have died. He’ll have to treat all of the rest. Post mortem. Surveys. The lot.

Mr Purves is not happy. He reckons it’s all a rouse to make more money out of him.

(all of which was very similar to many a moment from All Creatures Great and Small).

But not to worry.

Seems Erin has charm when it comes to the male of the species, regardless of age or station in life.

She tells him that he’s respected and that they’ll work together on the most cost effective solution.

Which he agrees to, and they all go off for a cup of tea.

Blimey. Erin must have some eye-catching assets …


Clive only has to dangle to get Matt

Doing a deal with that bloke Bernie, Clive’s worked put that he could probably get £1,800 from all the metal in Matt’s house.

But he later tells Matt it’s only worth about £1,000. Which, after a bit of a stare out, Matt accepts.

[Bernie] “So you’ve really got old Crawford on the hook have you?”

[Clive] “I only have to dangle the bait. He’s thinks he’s so much better. He’s just a player like the rest of us”

Hmmm. My money is still on Matt.

Ambridge Extra Tuesday 8th November 2011: Neil tackles Clive, Daniel tackles Raife

• Neil starts to lose his temper
• Who is Gavin?
• Neil kicks Clive out
• Clive scares Daniel
• Don’t call me, I’ll call you
• Daniel was “epic”

Neil starts to lose his temper

[Neil] “Any idea where your mum kept her bin bags Clive?”

But Clive isn’t listening. He’s found a photo album, and is looking through it.

[Neil] “Clive, enough. We’re not here to take a wander down memory lane!”

[Clive] “Fine. I got you. Thanks for being so sensitive”

I think Clive had a point – he was enjoying looking at the old family photos, but Neil was there to clear out Ivy’s stuff as Susan couldn’t face it. Time and place, methinks.


Who is Gavin?

A bit of a stirrer, by the sounds of it.

He’s a mate of Daniel’s and is winding Daniel up about Erin.

[Gavin] “Get in there. The whole school thinks you’re together anyway”

Daniel is a gent and truthfully says there’s nothing going on, but Gavin wants to push it. He tells Daniel that Raife has been saying stuff like Erin was possessive, and:

[Gavin] “She’d thought she’d seduce a little boy instead that she can control”

Later on – Gavin then shows Daniel what Raife has been saying about Erin on Facebook. Stuff like -warning, bunny boiler alter – how’s your new boyfriend, does he like used goods – and such nonsense.

But, it’s enough to enrage Daniel, who storms off to go and find Raife …


Neil kicks Clive out

Hurrah!

Clive’s upstairs going through Ivy’s stuff. Amongst the old dentures (!), he finds £300 in notes.

Just as he is about to pocket them, Neil walks in and catches him.

Bit shouting match ensues.

[Clive] “You don’t want to cause you’ll know what she’ll say … Sue knows I’ve changed … she’s the only who has ever cared … you just wait til she hears how she’s been treating your brother”

[Neil] “Get out … I’m not letting you take advantage any longer … are you going to hit me, I wonder whose side Susan will be on then!”

And Clive doth exit.


Clive scares Daniel

As Neil is kicking Clive out, Daniel is passing the house on his bike.

Neil’s telling Clive to go away after the funeral – Daniel sounds scared.

[Clive to Daniel] “What you looking at?!?”

[Daniel] “Erm, nothing”

[Neil] “Don’t you talk to him!”

Course, Clive doesn’t realize who Daniel is, but Neil knows that Daniel will be quite rightly terrified at the sight (and sound) of Clive.

After Clive has left:

[Daniel] “Aren’t you scared? Talking to him like that? Aren’t you worried? He might come back to hurt you”

[Neil] “Nah, he won’t. Anyway, what’s the alternative, just to him get away with it … and let him carry on hurting people. No, it won’t do Daniel. Sometimes you’ve just got to stand up to people like that”

Quite right Neil. And good on you.

Heroes sometimes come in pig man sizes.


Don’t call me, I’ll call you

After having a rather bad time with Neil, Clive tries to cheer himself by getting more work from Matt.

Actually, he starts begging. Which wasn’t pretty to hear.

[Matt] “Don’t ring me again. I’ll call you if I need anything”

Aha! Couldn’t have happened to a nice bloke.


Daniel was “epic”

So it seems.

[Gavin] “Serious mate, that was epic. No-one talks to Raife like that!”

Amongst other things, Daniel went up to Raife and called him a loser.

Daniel – to himself - I could feel myself shaking, it was like someone else was talking

[Gavin] “You completely shamed him. Erin's going to be so impressed … when Erin finds out, I guarantee you you’re going to be get the best birthday present ever”

Not so sure about that. I don’t think today’s young ladies like having their “honor defended”.

Ambridge Extra Thursday 3rd November 2011: Clive thinks he is smarter than Matt

• Sloppy seconds
• Clive really is a w*nker
• Alistair approves of Erin’s wheels
• And now Clive goes for the money shot …
• Shula’s setting up Erin

Sloppy seconds

Clive’s doing some dodgy deal with Bernie.

Sounds like he’s buying a bathroom from Bernie. It’s a second hand one (how does that happen, by the way?) which Clive is going to sell onto Matt as new.

Clive fits the bathroom – but Matt does spot that there are marks on them.

But, Clive twists it round. He reckons that’s the way he got them from Bernie, and Bernie won’t be happy if they complain. If Bernie isn’t happy, they can’t do any more deals. Which means having to buy in more expensive stock. And anyway, it’s only a rental property.

Matt seems to fall for it.

Clive – to himself - like taking sweets from a baby – who is using who now Mr big shot. You’re not as smart as you think you are

Hmmm.

I think matt has underestimated Clive, but Clive would do well to also not underestimate Matt.


Clive really is a w*nker

Clive is being horrible to Bert. His dad. Recently widowed (husband of the recently departed Ivy).

He’s taken him out to the pub, but Clive really interested in looking after or helping Bert.

It’s all about Clive, Clive, Clive …

Bert’s getting the pints on (!), is a bit wobbly and upset, spills the beer on Clive’s phone, Clive shouts at him (!!) and tells him to go get a cloth (!!!).

Clive – to himself - dozy old fool, look at this mess, can’t he do anything right

Clive then says to Bert that he doesn’t know why Susan is bothering inviting Kylie – after insisting to Susan that she must invite Kylie.

As I said above.

What a w*nker.


Alistair approves of Erin’s wheels

And reckons her parents must have bags of money to be able to buy insurance for her.

At one point, he shouts “nice ride” over to Erin, which is a tad inappropriate.

But it’s all another point in Erin’s favor. Good looking. Intelligent. Talented. A plan for her life. And rich parents.

All it needs now is for Erin to actually fancy Daniel.


And now Clive goes for the money shot …

[Clive] “Listen dad, about mum, I don’t suppose you’ve had a chance to think about what she’s leaving us?”
Here we go.

Clive’s going onto Bert about how he has nothing to remember Ivy by. Not even a photo.

He spins Bert a story about how Ivy told him (Clive) that she wanted him (Clive) to make a better life for himself. Including wife and kids.

[Clive] “She said she wanted me to have her rings. Engagement and wedding ring. Didn’t she tell you … how she said it was I should have them, so that even when she weren’t around anymore I could look at them to remind me that she were watching and not to disappoint her …. Her last wish was that I should find someone to give them to …”

Bert starts crying.

[Bert] “Yes, well, I suppose if that’s what she wanted. Alright then. It’s not like I’ll be needing them anymore”

Clive – to himself - what does he care anyway? He’ll never know. At least I’ll be able to make some use of them.

Again. What a w*nker.


Shula’s setting up Erin

Daniel’s not around when Erin calls, so Shula steps in to make sure Erin still visits after their homework project is finished.

She does so by offering up Alistair.

Erin’s now going to go out on rounds with Alistair

Shula – to herself - I’m only trying to help. She deserves some support

Mum and dad involved in trying to get Daniel a girlfriend … this can’t end well, surely.

Ambridge Extra Tuesday 1st November 2011: Lilian takes Matt to task about Clive

• Clive had bacon this time
• Clive on his mum dying
• Daniel nearly gets an early Christmas
• An excruciating tea
• Clive on what happened to Clive when his mum died
• Lilian is furious!

Clive had bacon this time

But I don’t think Matt bought it for him.

Though Matt did him £175 for “the lot “ (sink, drainer, mixer tap, pipework), which one assumes Clive is to buy from that bloke Bernie on the hush.


Clive on his mum dying

Matt tells Clive that he’s sorry to hear about Ivy dying.

[Matt] “But even so, at least you managed to spend some time with her before she died”

After Matt later gives Clive some cash for a point and lets him off early:

[Clive] “Cheers for the cash. My mum really appreciated you giving me chance. It ain't like I’ve done much in my life what made her happy, but seeing there was someone, you know, who did think I were all bad”

[Matt] “Yeah, well, like I said at least her last memoires of you inside. Yeah, I’m sure it made her happy to have you home and trying to turn your life around”

Clive reckons the last time he saw, he was causing her grief. Which he was, as he was angry he wasn’t allowed to see George. Clive says he regrets not seeing her one last time after that.al’ mum died.

[Clive] “All my mum ever did was work for other people, cleaning their house, ironing their clothes, and what did it get her. She worked herself to the bone and all she ever wanted was to see her family happy”

You know – Clive sounded quite genuine. Like he really wanted to open up and talk about it.

But, Matt didn’t sound too comfortable. He’s not that sort of bloke. And, he hardly made much of a fuss when his'real' mum died ...


Daniel nearly gets an early Christmas

Erin’s round at Daniel’s for tea.

[Erin] “Wow Daniel, so this is where you live!”

Daniel’s wishes nearly all come at once - Erin then says she wants to change out of her school gear.

But, Shula turns up at the same time.

Not that Daniel really stands a chance. It’d be more like him to watch through the keyhole, or setup a webcam.


An excruciatingly tea

So Daniel gets to sit down with his (not) girlfriend, mum and dad.

Shula – to herself - didn’t expect so pretty… she could be 20 … hope she’s in Daniels’ league … so talented

Alistair – to himself (about Daniel) - someone’s anxious about looking cool

Shula – to herself - girls will be girls. I just don’t want Daniel getting a broken heart

Alistair to himself – Daniel, poor lad, it looks like he’s being tortured

Shula – to herself - perhaps I was wrong about her. Maybe she’s just what Daniel needs …

Once Daniel gets Erin to himself:

[Daniel] “Sorry about my parents. I didn’t know they were going to give you the full Guantanamo treatment!”

But Erin reckons they were nice and that she likes them.

Not that Erin has seen his home life, extra points for Daniel?


Clive on what happened to Clive when his mum died

Matt and Clive are having a rather long chin-wag. They’re still talking though Clive has money in his pocket for a pint.

[Clive] “Chris’ Alice, she couldn’t just stop staring. Like I was a creature from another planet”

Clive reckons Susan was organising everyone, so wasn’t letting anyone do anything.

Aye right then! It’s all about poor Clive being left out.

[Clive] “It made me sick … knowing that half of them didn’t want me there”

[Matt] “Just cause you’re related by blood don’t mean you’ve got anything in common … and then you’re expect to owe ‘em something … at the end of the day, the only person you can rely on is yourself”

Lilian is furious!

Lilian catches Matt having his chinwag with Clive.

She is not amused. Once she gets Matt outside:

[Lilian] “You promised … you said you’d get rid of him”

[Matt] “That was the last job”

[Lilian] “You’re not going to wriggle out of it Matt”

[Matt] “What does it matter anyway. As long as he’s useful …”

[Lilian] “This still has nothing to do with hiring a psychopath”

[Matt] “He’s cheap, he does what he’s told and when he stops being useful, I’ll get shot of him, for goodness sake Lilian, I’m not doing this out of the goodness of my heart!”

[Lilian] “I asked you not to do it at all. I mean for pity sake what if Christine found out we were employing him. Or Shula or Jill of half of my family who that man terrorized, you know how they feel about him … I want you to get rid of him”

Matt’s reasoning us that by giving Clive a job, he’s at least keeping him out of Ambridge.

[Matt] “I know you don’t like him, I don’t like him much either but you have to trust me. He’s keen, he’s cheap and he’s desperate for the work”

[Lilian] “Fine, but on your head be it Matt. I just hope you don’t live to regret it”

Lilian was viciously angry – but the worst of it?

Clive heard every word …