Pavel leaves, Adam tells Jennifer everything: Wed 19.09.12

The Archers Wednesday 19th September 2012

• A last minute trip to Thailand
• Folks are avoiding Mike
• Vicky and Mike  = baby = no wedding for Tom
• Pavel was a just a lost young ‘un?
• Didn’t Adam realise Pavel was gay?!?

A last minute trip to Thailand

Oh aye, we can all just nip off and do that.

Seems Kenton and Jolene can certainly do so.

Funny thing that. Considering Jill paid for most of their trip …


Folks are avoiding Mike

Mike thinks his mates are avoiding him. Especially when he goes into The Bull.

[Tom] “Maybe they just don’t know what to say.”

[Brenda] “They knew what to say when he first told them … they were really nice then … if they’re saying what he thinks he might have said, and that’s what’s upsetting him.”

Seems Roy is taking Mike fishing on Saturday, so he’ll hopefully be able to talk properly then.

Thank goodness Roy’s not a ‘proper’ macho type bloke. Who would Mike (eventually) talk to if he was?


Vicky and Mike  = baby = no wedding for Tom

Are Tom and Brenda going to get married?

I had been saying, for a fair while, that Tom and Brenda have made little mention of their engagement or wedding. They seemed to make a fuss getting engaged, then that was that.

Recently, Tom’s been bringing it up.

Unfortunately for Brenda, mention of their wedding is in the same sentence as Tom’s bloomin’ ready meals …

Tom’s told Brenda he’s got them a nice supper ready.

Guess what?

Yup.

Ready meals.

Brenda put a brave face on it though.

[Brenda] “ …that’s all a woman wants, a partner who knows how to use a microwave.”

[Tom] “You ain't seen nothing yet, wait til you hear about my plans for our wedding breakfast!”

[Brenda] “As long as they don’t involve ready meals, I don’t mind.”

Actually, I think Brenda does mind very much indeed. I thought she’d rather there was no wedding breakfast at all …

And right enough, Brenda finds her excuse.

Brenda was over at Vicky’s, showing her a website she’d found with a huge selection of wall freezes.

Vicky’s talking about how good it is that Mike seems to be on side again:

[Vicky] “He’s starting to want the baby now, that’s the difference …I was lucky to be pregnant at all, I’d given up hope … It makes it all the most previous. My daughter will always need me, and I’ll always be there to love and support her. Does that sound selfish?   I’ve got so much love to give a child, I’ve been saving it all these years, and now I know why, because my little girl is going to need all of it, every bit of it.”

(my word – that baby really couldn’t be hoping for a better mother)

When Brenda got back to Tom:

[Brenda] “I can’t believe how I’ve underestimated that women.”

Both she and Tom agree that they’re both committed to supporting Mike, Vicky and their baby.

Which Brenda reckons means putting the wedding on hold.

Tom had been thinking about dates, but:

[Brenda] “Not at the moment, not with this other stuff going on.”

Now, I’m not saying Brenda is callously using excuses, but it does seem a bit neat.

Hmmm …


Pavel was a just a lost young ‘un?

As Adam was trying to herd all of the fruit pickers to the airport, and onto their plane (were they all Polish?), Pavel had been desperately trying to get a word with Adam alone. When he finally does corner him:

[Pavel] “You know it was special for me … I’m not going to make a scene, but I couldn’t leave without telling you how great it was to be part of the wonderful life you and Ian have … you're very lucky, Adam, to have all this, and to share it with Ian. Look after him, he’s a lovely man. And I’ve had the time of my life.”

Oh.

It would seem Pavel wasn’t a villain after all.

Just a young chap experiencing the world – and one where he could be himself without fear.

Still, I don’t quite believe Adam was the only other gay man in Borchester (apart from Ian). Surely Pavel could have spread his oats just a wee bit further?


Didn’t Adam realise Pavel was gay?!?

Adam’s back from the airport, feeling rather sheepish about the way he’s treated Pavel.

He was trying to pass it off as not having liked Pavel, but Jennifer knows better …

[Jennifer] “I’d have thought you’d have got on rather well … I wondered if perhaps he might be gay, having   a   hard time being accepted … call it a mother’s instinct, and you didn’t realise?”

[Adam] “No. I wish I had. I didn’t know he was gay until …”

[Jennifer] “You're not saying that something happened between you and Pavel?”

[Adam] “Yes something happened. I slept with him.”

Adam tells Jennifer that after the massive argument he’d had with Ian, he’d gone to a gay bar in Felpersham. Pavel was there. They had a few drinks. And, well … Adam realised Pavel was in fact gay.

Poor Jennifer has been there, heard it, dealt with it so many times. Having affairs really in the Aldridge (and Macy) family hobby.

[Jennifer] “But however bad the row was, he loves you so much … and with Pavel of all people! You were his boss!”

[Adam] “And the way I’ve behaved ever since has been worse, today I just couldn’t wait to see the back of him, and then, he was so generous to me. So kind, really.”

[Jennifer] “And you found you still had feelings for him?”

[Adam] “I did it with a vulnerable young man, finding his way in the world, what was I thinking …. I don’t know if I can live with the guilt.”

[Jennifer] “We’ll you’ll have to.”

[Adam] “Should I tell Ian?”

[Jennifer] “No. Absolutely not.”

[Adam] “But how am I going to make it right?”

[Jennifer] “Love Ian like he should be loved. Cherish every moment of your life together, and take care of what you’ve got. It’s so previous. And you know that now.”

I can see Jennifer’s point. Adam telling Ian wouldn’t make a difference for the better – just would ease Adam’s guilt.

But shouldn’t Ian be given the choice?

Wouldn’t Jennifer want to know if Brian wandered … again?

Joe and David’s birthday: Tues 18.09.12

The Archers Tuesday 18th September 2012

• David got bacon and two nights out
• Pavel just wants to say goodbye
• Joe got to sit in The Bull all day
• “Your ever loving sister”
• Joe’s not very PC

David got bacon and two nights out

He was very chuffed indeed.

Ruth’s taking him away for a night stay over in a hotel, and to the theatre. And this time, they’ll be alone:

[Ruth] “And this time without Ben so I have you all to meself.”

Josh gave David a ticket for the comedy night at The Bull. Though it seems he bought it for himself without realising that it’s for over 18s only. (who sold him it, eh?). But David’s’ not perturbed about his ‘recycled’ present:

[David] “So in this case, it’s not the thought that counts, it’s the money.”

Josh has also done Rhys a favour. Seems tickets for the comedy show haven’t been selling fast. Rhys has had to resort to trying to sell tickets to anyone. Including Eddie and Joe …


Pavel just wants to say goodbye

Pavel’s leaving tomorrow. He’s trying to find Adam, so calls round at Jennifer’s.

Pavel tells Jennifer that he’s very sad to be going back to Poland. He lives with his parents, and doesn't feel he has any freedom.


Joe got to sit in The Bull all day

And have his breakfast. And lunch. And numerous pints. Even David buys him one:

[Ruth] “How come it never works the other way round?”

Indeed. Considering it’s David’s birthday in the same day. Every year. And Joe never buys him a drunk.

Despite Joe’s boozy day, bizarrely, didn’t seem to get drunk.

Must be from all those 90 plus years of drinking experience.


“Your ever loving sister”

Elizabeth left a present and card for David, with Emma.

Why did she leave it with Emma?

I’ve no idea …

Anyhoo – as well as a nice card – Elizabeth gave David a book of Borchester photographs.

It had a photograph of Brookfield, 1912, with ‘Tenant farmer John Archers’ in front of it.

Elizabeth’s message to David:

“To my dearest brother David, a present to celebrate the past and look forward to the future. Your ever loving sister.”

[Ruth] “Oh that’s lovely.”

[David] “Yes, no need to cry then, is there?”

(he is crying)

That’ll be that then.

David and Elizabeth. Back together again.

Until Elizabeth finds something else to blame him for …


Joe’s not very PC

Joe and Eddie are discussing Mike and Vicky’s baby.

[Joe] “Sometimes I do think that them doctors can do too much … I think he’s very brave taking it on, at his age.”

Eddie tells him to shut up.

Imagine what Mike would have said …

Jim can’t get peace in his shed: Wed 12.09.12

The Archers Wednesday 12th September 2012

• Pavel wants to say goodbye
• Darrell takes up the floorboards
• Is that Paul as in THE Paul?
• What’s going on in Jim’s shed?
• Jim appreciates Fallon’s talents
• Darrell has to buy a washing machine

Pavel wants to say goodbye

He asks Adam to his caravan. He’s about to leave to go back home.

(and makes tea, which he reckons he’s now got the hand of. He reckons he was using too many bags at first)

Pavel reckons he wants to say goodbye properly to Adam. Adam wants to walk away and forget him and what happened.

[Pavel] “Why feel so guilty, why not see it for what it is?”

Adam reckons he might have been a bit more relaxed about it when he was younger, but not now. Not married to Ian.

Pavel tries to wind Adam up again by suggesting Ian was up for it when he came onto him, but Adam doesn’t believe him.

[Pavel] “Though he was tempted anyway. What’s so wrong with being tempted, if it doesn’t hurt anyone?”

[Adam] “Well it does.”

[Pavel] “I just want to say goodbye properly, that’s all.”

[Adam] “I can’t take the risk.”

Pavel resorts to begging.

But to no avail.

Adam stand him up.

[Pavel] “Just a bit disappointed. I was hoping to have a date with someone before I go, but it’s not happening.”

I can’t quite make up my mind whether Pavel is incredibly naive, purely driven by his groin or if Adam has been whispering sweet nothings off microphone.

Either which way, you’d have thought he’d got the message well before now.


Darrell takes up the floorboards

At Joyce and Arthurs.

After all the fuss about Matt forcing him to do it, it seemed to take him half a day.

What was all the fuss about?

Anyhoo, as Darrell gets an electric shock from Arthur’s drill (he won’t get his insurance to cover him for using a client’s equipment, you know …), Matt turns up.


Is that Paul as in THE Paul?

Darrell tells Matt that he has other work coming up. He’s off to work with a chap called Paul Morgan, who says that he also knows Matt.

Is that THE Paul? As in Matt’s half-brother Paul? Didn’t he have something to do with building?

Perfect timing if he wants to take things further with Lilian (than he did last time). She’s ever so angry with Matt at the moment.

This could be very interesting indeed.


What’s going on in Jim’s shed?

Jazzer is even wondering.

[Jazzer] “The whole shed was shaking, I thought there was a fight going on!”

[Jim] “Just had a little local difficulty.”

[Jazzer] “Sweating like a pig, whatever it is.”

[Jim] “Can’t a man occupy himself in his shed without attracting the interests of the whole village?”

Jazzer’s so intrigued that he even buys Jim half a pint later on.

But Jim’s not for telling.

He asks Pavel is he concurs that they have all “exhausted” the topic.

[Pavel, not a clue what they’re on about] “Erm, I think so?”

Jim appreciates Fallon’s talents

He’s very appreciative of Fallon’s efforts to get folks into The Bull.

Especially the forthcoming comedy night.

Nothing else attracting you, Jim???


Darrell has to buy a washing machine

On credit.

He and Elona’s has died, beyond repair.

Poor Darrell.

Hope that new job does work out and he doesn’t have to go back to Matt.

Matt can be ever so nasty when someone has to beg to him.

Mike talks to Neil: Fri 07.09.12

The Archers Friday 7th September 2012

• Matt gets cheeky
• Who does Adam think he is?
• Neil likes rubbing pigs’ ears
• Susan’s desire to eat pig feed
• “Until she found out she were one number short”
• Tom hasn’t got a kitchen

Matt gets cheeky

[Matt] “I nearly sent a carrier pigeon but I was afraid you’d gone feral and might eat it!”

Poor Darrell. He can’t avoid Matt forever, so goes into the office to see him. Matt keeps him waiting. Not a great start …

[Darrell] “Matt, Danny’s waiting in the van!”

[Matt] “Well I hope you left a window open and a bowl of water … he’ll cope, he’s good at sitting on his backside doing nothing.”

Matt wants to know what Darrell’s been up to at Arthur and Joyce’s. He’s none too happy that Darrell hasn’t ripped up all of the floorboards yet. Darrell almost (almost) says an outright ‘no’ to Matt.

[Darrell] “You’re not that kind of landlord are you matt. You wouldn’t want to hurt them, would you?”

Aha!

Good on you Darrell, turning Matt’s claims to Lilian round on him.


Who does Adam think he is?

Adam demands Pavel into the office.

He sounded like Lord of the Manor.

A Lord that’s been caught with the footman …

… or actually, the Lord who has to deal with a footman who he’s been dallying with, and who has now tried to dally with his … erm … wedded Lord. (well, Ian ain't no lady!)

[Adam] “You tried to get off with him!”

[Pavel] “You need to do what little Ruairi says. Chill.”

Pavel is entirely unrepentant at coming on to Ian. He reckons they have chemistry, so why not.

[Pavel] “Well, now you don’t like me, maybe he wants to make a mistake too …”

Pavel tells Adam that Ian was actually interested in him. That he enjoyed their kiss. That Ian has said it was “nice”.

What a liar! He didn’t even manage to engage with Ian lips, let alone have Ian tell him anything other than ‘get out’!

[Pavel] “You don’t like me anymore. Why mustn’t I try elsewhere?”

Neil likes rubbing pigs’ ears

And I’m sure the pigs like it too.


Susan’s desire to eat pig feed

 [Neil] “You know what I was just thinking?”

[Mike] “Pigs are awkward animals?”

[Neil] “The way she was hovering up the feed …”

Neil’s remembering a time when Susan was pregnant, and she was helping to feed the pigs.

[Neil] “I caught her staring at the pig nuts like she wanted to eat one.”

Seems it was Susan’s cravings time. Which sets Neil wondering about Vicky:

[Neil] “No funny little cravings?”

[Mike] “No, we ain’t been laughing that much actually.”

And at last, Mike talks about how he feels …


“Until she found out she were one number short”

(Mike’s blunt way of outing it, but I suppose he’s got every right)

[Mike] “everything’s got worse, like a big black cloud has come down on us, and I can’t see a way through … she thought she’d never have the chance to be a mother, this was like winning the lottery. Until we found she were one number short.”

Mike wonders aloud to Neil if it’d be better than they didn’t have the baby.

[Neil] “Is that what you want?”

[Mike] “I don’t know. But I feel so bad about it.”

[Neil] “If you feel so bad about it, maybe it’s not the right thing to do.”

Fair point Neil. But with Vicky determined to not consider any option other than having their baby, what choice does that leave Mike?

Well, none. None at all. Apart from leaving Vicky …

[Mike] “What’s worse Neil. Hoping through all that pain now, or saving it up, maybe a lost worse, for the future?”

Neil reckons no-one else than Mike and Vicky can decide on that.

But they need to know:

[Neil] “You’ve got your children. All of your friends. You do know you’re not facing this alone, don’t you?”

Mike gave  big sigh.

He did know that, but so desperately needed to hear it.

Thank goodness he’s finally talked to someone out of the family, who can look it at it from his point of view.

What he’ll do next, only Mike knows.


Tom hasn’t got a kitchen

Tom’s back on about his ready meals.

He reckons he needs 80 to 100 meals for a sampling, but he hasn’t got a kitchen large enough to cook them.

[Tom] “Yet another disadvantage of renting.”

Seems he and Brenda’s plan has always been to build their own house. In which, Tom plans to have a huge kitchen.

Actually, Brenda didn’t sound so keen …

… that’s another clue, I reckon.

What is going to happen about Tom and Brenda?

Their engagement is never to be?

Pavel tries it on with Ian: Thurs 06.09.12

The Archers Thursday 6th September 2012

• You can lead a cow to milk …
• With age comes a better attitude to livestock
• Lynda’s on about TPOs
• Lynda puts her mouth in it
• Pavel tries to seduce Ian
• Adam’s found to something to like about the Super Dairy

You can lead a cow to milk …

… but it takes two farmers to make it drink.

David’s got a new cow, only born two days ago, who isn’t able to help itself to the milk bar. She doesn’t seem to understand what to do, and the other cows keep barging her out of the way.

[Adam] “She doesn’t look very assertive … do you want me to act as bouncer? … You may need to draw a diagram.”

But all’s well.

She takes to it fine in the end.


With age comes a better attitude to livestock

So reckons Lynda.

(she’s talking about Scruff)


Lynda’s on about TPOs

She’s worried about an Oak at end of Manorfield Close. Something about it being crowned and whether it has a Tree Preservation Order.

So, she goes to ask Mike.

He’s the Tree Warden.

He tells her that’s all’s well, as that tree doesn’t have a TPO.

Then Lynda puts her mouth in it …


Lynda puts her mouth in it

[Lynda] “I know the pair of you are facing some extra challenges now, but together, you and Vicky will be more than a match for them.”

Oops.

Lynda isn’t supposed to know. Vicky isn’t supposed to have told anyone out of the family.

Mike holds his tongue with Lynda, but gives Vicky both barrels later on.

[Mike] “A juicy piece of gossip like that. She’ll love spreading it round!”

Vicky reckons Lynda is a true friend, so wouldn’t dare gossip.

I concur with Vicky. Lynda may have her faults, but a lack of loyalty isn’t one of them.

But, of course, it isn’t really Lynda that Mike is furious about. It’s the whole situation they (and their baby) find themselves in.

[Vicky] “I don’t know what you’re saying Mike because you’re not talking.”

[Mike] “I’m not talking because you're not listening. You won’t listen to me. You’ve already made your mind up.”

[Vicky] “I have no choice.”

Mike storms off …

Tricky.

Mike’s right that he really doesn’t have a say. Vicky’s the only one who can make their mind up.

But how is Vicky supposed to cope, let alone explain her feelings, when Mike just shouts and leaves?


Pavel tries to seduce Ian

Pavel calls round at Ian and Adam’s. He wants to see Adam, but he’s out. He tells Ian that he’s bored, bored, bored.

[Pavel] “I’m going  out of my mind, with boredom, there’s nothing to do. I need to get away from the caravans.”

So Ian invites him in for dinner and wine while they wait for Adam to get back from work.

Ian’s also rudely interrupted by phone calls from Neville Booth, Oliver Sterling (and the like) wanting to know more about hot to make the perfect bread (for the Flower and Produce Show).

Pavel asks Ian to sit right next to him, so that he can hear him better. Ian, oblivious, does so:

[Pavel] “Maybe they aren’t interested in the bread. Maybe it’s you … I like guys who make things. It’s sexy …”

(Pavel tries to kiss Ian)

[Ian] “That’s out of line!”

[Pavel] “For fun!”

Ian does not agree, and sends Pavel packing (after he’s allowed to finish his wine. Ian still has his manners).

And Ian being Ian, he tells Adam what happened when Adam gets back in. By that time, Ian can see the funny side of it.

[Ian] “He’s got all the patter … before you know it, bang, hand on the thigh and in for the big kiss!”

[Adam] “You’re not serious … it wasn’t a joke?”

Ian plays it down. And takes the Michael out of Adam for suggesting that Pavel couldn’t find him (Ian) attractive).

[Adam] “All the same. It shouldn’t have happened.”

[Ian] “Hey, you don’t think for one second I was tempted? … of course I wasn’t. Why would I want a quick fumble with a silly kid like Pavel, not when I’ve got you Adam?”

Ah, that must have been a sting to Adam’s guilty conscience.

If only he was half the man that Ian was … he’d have told Ian about the one night stand with Pavel, and dealt with the consequences head on.

Instead, he’s got to continue lying, and now has the worry that Pavel will keep using his special charms to get Ian into bed.

But Adam doesn’t need to worry.

As I said, Ian’s twice the man Adam is.


Adam’s found to something to like about the Super Dairy
Well, I don’t suppose we can blame him. He’d need to have at least one thing to stay positive and sane about.

David was mentioning he’d seen lorries arriving at Valley Farm (the one with the swifts, whom one assumes will not be as welcome back next year). Adam tells him their getting the start of the foundations down, and also the anaerobic digester.

Adam’s a fan of the ‘AD Unit’. Seems it’ll produce enough power foe the whole dairy, the workers’ accommodation and also to sell back to the grid.

He also thinks Brian should have covered the Super Dairy in solar panels to generate even more power.

[Adam] “The more you control your energy. The less you get mucked about.”

Hmmm … is that more about Adam Vs Brian than Adam saving the planet or their business money?

Pavel wants more: Fri 17.08.12

The Archers Friday 17th August 2012

• Jennifer’s American magnolia is dying
• Mike’s not sure he wants to be a dad?
• Pavel just wants to have fun

Jennifer’s American magnolia is dying

Just as she needs it to cover up Ruairi’s concrete ‘ dog’ statue.

It’s the day of the picker’s party, so she wants that dog hidden as much as possible.

[Jennifer] “It was helping to screen that wretched dog.”

[Adam] “Everyone’s seen it anyway, and know it’s not your bad taste, it’s Ruairi’s.”

But seemingly Charlotte’s mum is coming. Charlotte is a mate of Alice. Who I’ve never heard of before, but seemingly Alice must must must have there to comfort her over not getting a job she’d been going for. Can Charlotte can’t come if her mum doesn’t come, as she can’t get there otherwise.

(still with me? Very dull, I know).

Jennifer really doesn’t like Charlotte’s mother.

[Jennifer] “She’s such a  terrible social climber, she’d love the chance to sneer at my hideous garden statue.”

So Pavel and Adam move it. Jennifer thought they’d managed to smash it (huzzah!), but alas, it was just fine.


Mike’s not sure he wants to be a dad?

Well, he started out still wanting to be a dad this evening.

Proper full of the joys.

He even asked Vicky if it was okay if he had a beer, as she wouldn’t be able to have booze. They need to keep:

[Mike] “junior nice and fit and healthy.”

But after Vicky tells him of the risk and the tests, and the risks of the test. That they might (just might) have a baby with down’s syndrome.

[Mike] “I don’t know what to say.”

[Vicky] “We don’t know yet.”

[Mike] “How could you not ay. How could you keep it to yourself?”

Vicky tells him she was scared to say anything, but now he needs to know. And she can’t do it alone.

[Mike] “It was hard enough going to be a dad at my age, but now …”

This might get very difficult and tricky indeed.


Pavel just wants to have fun

Adam’s happy, so Ian is happy and Pavel is also happy.

If only Ian knew …

Ian and Pavel were having great japes trying to be Dog Guards (hiding the statue from Charlotte’s mum).

When Pavel managed to get Adam to himself:

[Pavel] “I think being around me is still hard for you …You and Ian have such a  great relationship, I don’t want to make any trouble for you.”

Adam apologies for dragging Pavel into this situation.

But Pavel didn’t sound like he was dragged, He says again he had a great time with Adam. That it was fun. That no one had got hurt.

[Pavel] “And if you want to … we all need to have a bit of fun sometimes, don’t we?”

Bunny boiler …

There’s two “decent” gay bars in Felpersham: Mon 13.08.12

The Archers Monday 13th August 2012

• Stuck between Matt and a Scooter
• Three go Mad in Dorset!
• Rave? Is it the Nineties?
• Ian’s gaydar is broken
• Ian wants to party with Pavel

Stuck between Matt and a Scooter

Darrell’s going to see Walters’ house again.

[Matt] “Good man, good man, pleased to hear it, knew you’d come to see it my way .. .we’d be doing them a favour Darrell.”

[Darrell] “Yeah but mate, it’s really not that bad …”

[Matt] “Never mind, the sooner we can persuade them to move out, the better.”

[Darrell] “I’ll be  honest with ya, I’m still not too happy about this business.”

I’m surprised Darrell got away with calling Matt “mate”.

Darrell insists he’s going to talk to Joyce and Arthur (aka the Walters) before he makes a decision about what to do.

[Matt] “If that’s the want you want to play it.”

[Darrell] “It’s the only way I know how.”

Later on, Matt meets Darrell coming out of the Walters’:

[Matt] “Keeping well, are they?”

Darrell starts going on about Joyce’s dodgy hip which, of course, Matt really couldn’t give a hoot about. He just wants them out. The hip is only another excuse to get them into an easy. Modern (tiny) flat (beneath Jazzer – who’s likely to be even more noisy now that harry isn’t there).

[Darrell] “It’s not on Matt, I can’t really do it.”

[Matt] “Just tell me it’s much more serious … the place won’t be fit to live in while you work.”

[Darrell] “I don’t know if I can Matt. They’re not stupid you know.”

[Matt] “You’re not trying Darrell.”

[Darrell] “They’re happy. This is their home … it feels a bit like harassment to me.”

[Matt] “Oh does it now … may it’s time to show me just how grateful you are … you’ve got a big heart and it’s in the right place … (but) … go home, have a think about it, and see if you can’t find a way to change your mind.”

When Darrell gets home, it’s Rosa’s bloomin’ scooter than changes Darrell’s mind.

She and Elona went off and bought it, for £50 deposit and no interest for a year.

Rosa goes on and on about how brilliant it is that Darrell can’t seem to tell her no.

[Darrell] “No, no of course you won’t have to take it back."

I can see why Darrell ended up in prison the last time. He has string principles, and is fundamentally a decent chap but he’s also a bit weak.


Three go Mad in Dorset!

Pip’s getting the milking lady cows in on her own.

David and Ruth (and Ben) are off on their holiday to Dorset.

For one while night!

Even though it’s such a short break (which hardly seems worth doing), Ruth still has to check-in

[Pip] “The cows, are fine, Josh is fine, the sheep are fine, and guess what, the house isn’t falling down either.”

Chill pill Ruth and David. Take longer, go further and don’t waste your time checking back.


Rave? Is it the Nineties?

[Rosa] “There’s a rumour that there’s going to be a big rave on Thursday night.”

[Pip] “Rave?”

[Rosa] “Like a massive party to celebrate the exam results.”

Goodness me – I haven’t heard anyone say ‘rave’ for many a moon!

Surely something folks of my age used to say when Rosa’s age – not Rosa’s age still saying it.

She’s an odd ‘un, that Rosa.

She was trying to find out if Pip or Josh know where the “rave” was – the seemed to be sad she wouldn’t be invited (she’s still a new ‘un) – then determined to crash it.

[Rosa] “who needs an invite!”

Ian’s gaydar is broken

Pavel’s round for tea at Ian and Adam’s.

Pavel was invited by Ian (Adam has no say in the matter – Ian was insistent) to help make Polish food. Pierogi, to be exact.

But Pavel has a confession to make …

[Pavel] “So I lied about my grandmother, she was a lousy cook, and she died before I was born.”

[Ian] “I fell straight for that one, didn’t I”

When Adam comes home, and Pavel goes to hunt the beer:

[Ian] “Have you heard the news about harry the milkman … I think it’s great .. .though he’s left a lot of disappointed women around Ambridge.”

[Adam] “Was that what you were talking about with when I came in?”

[Ian] “What, with Pavel? No. Does he even know Harry?”

[Adam] “Maybe not, but he’d be interested. Surely.”

[Ian] “Why? What? Really, are you telling me, he’s …”

[Adam] “Oh come, surely you must have …”

[Ian] “How do you know? Come on, what makes you so sure, have you actually asked him?”

[Adam] “No. What about that famous gaydar of yours?”

[Ian] “Alright, so maybe he is, but he’s said nothing to me about it.”

[Adam] “So why don’t you ask?”

Is it just me, or is Adam asking for Ian to find out that he slept with Pavel? And not by having to tell him himself?!?

As Adam leaves them in the kitchen:

[Ian] “He’s tired, he’ll soon perk up.”

[Pavel] “I hope so.”

(I wasn’t going to fall for mentioning any of the 'oh Matrons' being made in tonight’s eavesdropping, but am just about to)

I bet he does!

*snort*


Ian wants to party with Pavel

Oh dear.

Later on in the evening, it sounded like Pavel, Ian and Adam were in the hot tub. Ian sounded quite merry indeed:

[Ian] “Toast, to the home farm arable manager, and to me not having to find a new job in Botswana … you only did it because you couldn’t bear to leave the hot tub behind!”

[Pavel] “To the hot tub, Na zdrowie”

The Pavel gets serious.

[Pavel] “I can say this now that there’s no secrets between us … I’m happy that you know.”

(well, Ian doesn’t know the half of it!)

[Ian] I’m so slow on the uptake. Adam got there way before I did I!”

(did he ever!)

Pavel starts talking about the sheer freedom Adam and Ian have. They can be together. Do what they like. Without fear.

(well, in some parts of Britain. There’s still plenty where they’d have their windows broken, or chased out with pitchforks)

[Pavel] “It’s like having to learn a whole new language, and sometimes I get it wrong, I can’t read the signs, you understand … but it’s still so much better.”

Ian tells Pavel he must make the most of him time over here. So Pavel asks where the “fun places” are. Ian tells him there are a  “couple decent gay bars in Felpersham”.

(who’d have thunk it!)

They also arrange to have a meet up before, and do something after, the Home Farm pickers party this Friday.

Adam agrees.

Oh this really isn’t going to end well …

Adam’s staying: Fri 10.08.12

The Archers Friday 10th August 2012

• Adam and Ian are leaving
• Blast Rosa and her scooter!
• Adam tries to blame Pavel
• Adam and Ian are staying …
• … or maybe not!

Adam and Ian are leaving

[Adam] “The last harvest at home farm.”

[Ian] “Things aren’t working here, I can see what it’s doing to you.”

[Adam] “I need to know you’re happy for us to move away.”

[Ian] “I’ll find something else. Everyone needs to eat.”

They’re interrupted by a text from Pavel … which doesn’t say much (just asking what Adam is doing later), but Adam’s spluttering reaction was a bit much. Ian didn’t notice though. He thought the invite was for them both.


Blast Rosa and her scooter!

Matt sends Darrell round to the Walters’ house to see how much work it needs done on it.

[Matt] “And we don’t want a  sweet old couple like Joyce and Arthur living in a dump.”

Rosa wants a scooter.

Darrell’s trapped between Matt and the scooter …

After spending most of the day writing down what needs to be fixed in the house that Joyce and Arthur have been living in for 40 years, Darrell hasn’t found anything serious to report.

Matt soon sees to that.

A bit of damp becomes a major problem, which Matt thinks Darrell will need to tear apart the house to fix.

[Matt] “If Arthur and Joyce don’t like it, they could move somewhere else. I’ve already offered them a flat.”

[Darrell] “I’m not sure I want to … what are you actually asking me to do Matt?”

Noting illegal, but certainly not very humane.

[Matt] “I wouldn’t bother mentioning it to Lilian though. She doesn't like to get her hands dirty with the day to day maintenance.”

Again, Darrell either does Matt’s bidding, and gets the money to buy stuff for his very demanding family, or he says no and has no work.

Just tell Lilian.

She’ll soon put a stop to Matt.


Adam tries to blame Pavel

Adam goes round to see Pavel.

[Adam] “I got your text.”

[Pavel] “You could not wait, yes … I am thinking about you also.”

[Adam] “That’s not why I’m here Pavel. This has to stop … This isn’t some free and easy open relationship you’re messing with, this is my marriage.”

[Pavel] “Then you should have said no. It was just a bit of fun …”

[Adam] “Well not for me, don’t you get that Pavel. It was a mistake, I just wanted to let rip, to let go, and feel like you, I suppose … how I used to, when you think you can take on the world … you fall in love and then you realise you can’t put yourself first all the time … Do you have any idea how guilty I feel.”

[Pavel] “I understand, but why do you say this to me?”

[Adam] “Because I don't want you to ruin my relationship.”

[Pavel] “And I have not told anybody … so what are you doing here. Maybe it’s not me you should be talking to.”

Spot on Pavel!


Adam and Ian are staying

Adam tells Ian Pavel has gone clubbing, so they’ll just have a quiet night in.

Ian decides to do Adam’s socks.

(seriously, does anyone deserve a fabulous chap like Ian?)

[Adam] “I don’t want us to move away, I mean, we don’t have to … you were right. I’ve been completely self-obsessed … maybe mum’s right,. Maybe I am still recovering,. It’s like drowning.”

(ah – I think Adam is indeed still suffering from that heavy tap on his head)

[Adam] “It’s fantasy Ian, where would we go?”

Adam’s now promising to change (where have we heard that before? More and more like Brian every day)

[Adam] “It means the world to me that you would give everything up.”

So – Adam’s going to make a similar gesture.

He’s going to tell Brian he will grow the arable.

[Adam] “I lost the argument, I just need to accept it and move on.”

… or maybe not!

Adam and Ian ease themselves into their hot tub.

Adam has a G&T in one hand.

And a farming magazine in the other.

Bliss (for Adam).

[Adam] “It’s important to keep up to date.”

How true.

Adam spots the recruitment advert Brian had placed the other day. The one to replace Adam.

Oops.

[Adam] “He’s got to be joking. How’s that for family, eh!”

[Ian] “Adam. Don’t go doing anything stupid.”

*sigh*

Back to the beginning then, I suppose.

Mike and Vicky see their baby: Mon 06.08.12

The Archers Monday 6th August 2012

• Matt wants to maximise assets
• Doesn’t Vicky know about Susan?
• Mike’s amazed
• Pavel’s going to be a problem?
• Listen to Aunty Lilian

Matt wants to maximise assets

Seems that what their accountant has told him to do. Matt and Lilian’s cashflow isn’t holding up to well

Matt reckons it’s because they have one flat empty, No.3 The Green is a charity case (though Lilian reminded him it’s Peggy’s charity that’s helping Elona and Darrell, not theirs), and a couple called the Walters have a (low) long term lease.

So, without Lilian’s agreeing to such action, Matt goes round to the Walters to make them an offer. To no avail.

[Matt] “Those two, they’re like a pair of limpets. The hard you kick, the more they cling on!”

Matt tried to offer them their other empty flat. Which, as Lilian pointed out, is too small. And beneath Jazzer and Harry. Hardly appropriate for an elderly couple.

[Lilian] “Not everything is an opportunity to make a quick buck.”

[Matt] “Well a quick buck wouldn’t go amiss at the moment.”

Everyone needs to be on guard when Matt’s wanting to make a few more pennies …


Doesn’t Vicky know about Susan?

[Vicky] “What with Keith getting arrested … I’ve heard all the stories about Clive, but now Keith as well, it’s like having the Krays as brothers!”

Well, for starter, I wouldn’t put the Horrobins in the league of the Krays. Clive might be as nasty, but hasn’t got the class to match.

But sounds like Vicky is unaware of Susan’s own jailbird past.

Surely not?

But then again, the route of all gossip is Susan. And I suppose she’s not likely to gossip about her own dark secrets.


Mike’s amazed

Mike and Vicky are at their first scan.

[Mike] “I must be twice as age as the next oldest father here, probably wondering what on earth I’m doing here!”

Vicky reminds him that all the other expectant dads are too busy being expectant on their own part to notice him.

Poor Mike. He’s so badly out of his depth, and of another era.

He wasn’t even sure if he’d be allowed into the scan.

[Vicky] “Course you’re allowed. It’s your baby too!”

When they come out of the scan, Vicky’s incredibly giddy. She’s even started talking to her tummy.

[Vicky] “It’s really real, isn’t it … you must have felt it to. It’s like there’s actually a little person in there now!”

[Mike] “You’re right, it’s um, quite something …”

Vicky’s even thinking about names. She likes Dorothy, as her grandmother was called Dot.

[Vicky] “I think it means gift, and this baby’s a gift isn’t it Mike … well, I think so anyway.”

Later on:

[Vicky] “I know this isn’t necessarily what you wanted, but if you can just feel a little bit of what I do, you’d change your mind, you’d be just as thrilled as I am.”

[Mike] “I am! … it’s taken a while to sink in, but look, that’s my son. Or my daughter. It’s amazing. I can’t help it …”

[Vicky] “You were scaring me. I thought you were going to say you didn’t want it”

[Mike] “Don’t fret. I can see what it means to you. I love you. I only want to make you happy.”

So with Mike a happy dad, Vicky wants to tell everyone. But Mike’s not ready.

[Mike] “Give me a chance. One step at a time. I’ve only just got my head round it, I don’t know how they’re going to react … let me choose my moment, alright.”

Hmmm.

Does anyone else detect that Mike’s pondering has been more about what Vicky wants than what he wants?


Pavel’s going to be a problem?

[Pavel] “Adam, you should not look so worried, nobody knows what we talk about … and it’s kind of exciting, yes?”

[Adam] “No … I feel bad enough already. Look, I’m not blaming you, you’re a very sweet guy, but you’re right, I am your boss, it’s just not appropriate.”

But Pavel doesn’t understand the word “appropriate”. Quite literally.

Pavel seemed to be okay with Adam not exactly wanting to cuddle after their adult intimacy, but has he understood that Adam doesn’t want it to happen again?

Will he become bunny boiling material?

Or, does Adam protest too much? Pavel over Ian?!?


Listen to Aunty Lilian

Lilian interrupts Adam talking to Pavel. Adam sends Pavel off to work.

[Adam] “Sorry about that Lilian, staffing problems.”

(ahem!)

[Lilian] “It must be a nice problem to have. I don’t know how you keep your hands to yourself!”

(double ahem!)

Lilian’s worried about Adam, and has just been to see Jennifer, who’s even more worried about Adam. She’s also spoken to Ian:

[Lilian] “He told me you disappeared. Don’t tell me there’s nothing more to it …. Come on, it’s time for a chat with your aunty Lil.”

Adam has no choice. Time for Lilian to make sense of his life for him.

[Lilian] “I’d go stark raving mad if you and Ian leave Ambridge.”

[Adam] “I have to do what’s right for me.”

(note it’s “me” and not ‘we’ …)

Lilian tells him that family and home get ever more important as one gets older. Something to value and stick around for:

[Adam] “Well I don’t feel very valued at the moment.”

Adam tells Lilian that Ian has said he’ll move.

[Lilian] “I just find it hard to believe it’s what he really wants … There’s no point in running off to pastures news if it just makes Ian miserable instead.”

Fair point.

But will Adam listen?

Does Adam even care what does or doesn’t make Ian miserable anymore?

After all they’ve been through, even thinking of Adam’s recent 3 day coma, you’d think Ian would figure a bit more in Adam’s mind.

But seems not.

One can only hope that knock on the head affected Adam’s common sense. He’ll hopefully come back too before it’s too late.

Vicky’s being told her age: Thurs 26.07.12

The Archers Thursday 26th July 2012

• Mike’s looking forward to a woodland management course
• Brenda’s a b*tch to Vicky
• Pavel admires Adam
• Lynda’s actors irritating the locals
• Mike’s an amateur husband
• Adam has 1054 hectares
• Poor Vicky

Mike’s looking forward to a woodland management course

Bless him.

He’ll get glad to get away from Jazzer, who is seemingly constantly whining about not being able to go to Edinburgh. Not that he’s been invited by Harry or Fallon.

[Mike] “You know Jazzer, when he gets something in his head, it’s hard to shift it … Two whole days on woodland management, bring it on!”

Brenda’s a b*tch to Vicky

Mike and Brenda are having a wee chinwag, when Vicky bursts in to reveal her new dress.

Mike slightly grunts at it.

[Vicky] “Oh, what would you do with him Brenda, talk about damning with faint phrase.”

[Brenda] “Well, to be honest, it is a tiny bit short isn’t it, a bit young …”

[Vicky] “I’m 46 in case you’d forgotten!”

[Brenda, being rather catty] “Yeah of course. If you like it, fine.”

[Vicky] “Well come on Mike,. You like it don’t you?”

[Mike] “If I’m honest, I have to say I don’t like it as much as the gold one …”

[Vicky] “What gold one? I’ve never had a gold dress in my entire life!”

[Brenda] “No dad. You’re thinking of mum’s.”

[Mike] “Oh, um, yeah perhaps I am. Sorry.”

(Brenda leaves)

[Vicky] “Oh great. Thanks Mike!”

[Brenda] “Well thank you very much. Just once, it would be nice if you could take my side when Brenda makes one of her bitchy comments.”

[Mike] “I don’t think she meant it to be bitchy.”

[Vicky] “Well what would you call it when she said I was too old?”

[Mike] “She was only thinking of you.”

[Vicky] “So, you don’t agree with her?”

[Mike] “Well not really, no.”

[Vicky, fuming] “Thanks Mike, I really appreciate that”

So Mike goes out for a pint.

How to make a bad situation worse!


Pavel admires Adam

That Pavel (one of the fruit pickers) is a bit odd.

Ian sounds like he really ‘likes’ him.

Now it would seem Pavel really ‘likes’ Adam.

Or, Pavel could just be that interested in farming.

Pavel had called Adam as one of the other pickers had backed the tractor into one of the poly tunnels, and pulled one of the loops out.

Pavel volunteers to help fix it, instead of going to the pictures. He’s even got the replacement hoops, sheets and tolls all ready for Adam.

[Pavel] “You work too hard, you know that, I only hope you are appreciated.”

As it gets later, though Adam wants to crack on, Pavel wants to relax and have a couple of beers.

[Pavel] “So come on, chill, it’ll all get done in the end.”

What is this Pavel all about?

Is he angling for a better job, or something else?


Lynda’s actors irritating the locals

And they haven’t even shown them their performance art as yet …

As Mike gets back in from the pub:

[Mike] “Alright love … it was okay, not very relaxing though … Lynda was in with that mad theatre lot. Had the place in uproar. Will Grundy was in, and when they heard he was a keeper, they thought they’d stage an impromptu shoot!”

This can only get increasing worse. For all.


Mike’s an amateur husband

Which is odd, as he’s had plenty of years to practice.

He’s left his wife fizzing, for a pint at the pub.

Gets back home:

[Mike] “What’s the matter love?”

(doh!)

Then he says that her dress has been really pretty, after all.

(doh!)

[Vicky] “Don’t patronise me Mike. It’s too young for me. Brenda thought so and you agreed.”

[Mike] “Come on, this isn’t like you.”

[Vicky] “It is now. It’s time I was acting me age. I wouldn’t want to embarrass you, looking ridiculous, trying to cling on to my youth with everyone sniggering behind me back, saying ‘poor old mike, who does she think she is?’ ”

[Mike] “You are down in the dumps.”

(no sh*t Sherlock!)

[Vicky] “Just facing some uncomfortable truths, that’s all.”

Mike then mentions that he noticed she has an appointment at the clinic (from their wall calendar). Vicky tells him it’s for a routine smear:

[Vicky] “While I’m there I’m going to face up to it, ask some advice about to change.”

[Mike] “You mean, what to wear?”

[Vicky] “Mike!”

[Mike] “Oh, um, right, eh …”

Later on, Mike doesn’t want to go on his (ever so super) woodland course. And leave Vicky like this.

[Vicky] “I think I better sit here quietly and drink my coco. That seems to be all I’m fit for … Suddenly you realise you don’t quite feel like the woman you see in the mirror.”

[Mike] “You don’t look any different to me.”

[Vicky, genuinely] “That’s nice of you.”

Adam has 1054 hectares

Blimey.

That’s a big ‘un!

Pavel reckons his problem is that Adam is a manager who doesn’t get to manage. The small detail gets in the way, making him inefficient.

Adam was not amused to hear a fruit picker calling him inefficient.

Not at all!

But, Pavel gets to keep his job. Adam just had another beer.

Pavel reckons Adam should get more people involved in the farm. Do shared farming. Even tenancy farming.

[Pavel] “You could do well in Poland. You've got a free mind, and I know people who would value that.”

Adam reckons he could be right.

So. Adam moves to Poland, or Africa?


Poor Vicky

As we left Ambridge tonight, we heard Vicky calling Lynda. It was quite late (Lynda was likely in bed). But Vicky needed to talk.

Poor Vicky. She may be a loud ‘un, but she’s not a bad ‘un.

At least Ed believes: Wed 25.07.12

The Archers Wednesday 25th July 2012

• The difference between a chef and a farmer …
• Adam’s still undecided
• Ian ‘likes’ Pavel?
• Pavel disagrees with the Super Dairy
• England: a safe haven for gay men
• Keira left her fluffy pig
• Emma’s only got Ed
• Adam to leave Ambridge?

The difference between a chef and a farmer …

Adam spotted a deer with a dodgy leg.

[Ian] “All I see is a dozen acres of venison on legs. Guess that’s why I'm a chef and not a farmer.”

Adam’s still undecided

Adam’s refusing to be rushed,  or harassed, about making his decision whether to support Home Farm growing arable for the Super Dairy.

He reckons that if he gives way to Brian and Debbie this time, he’ll be pushed around forever.

Ian seems to be on Brian and Debbie’s side, to an extent. He doesn’t see what difference it makes to Adam where the crop goes once it’s been grown. Growing a crop is growing a crop.

[Adam] “It would be like me saying to you cooking’s just cooking. I may still be growing crops, but what they’re grown for makes a difference.”

Ian ‘likes’ Pavel?

Ian suggest to Adam they meet up for pint later on.

What a surprise … that fruit picker Pavel was there again. Ian did seem to really enjoy his company the other week …

Pavel’s also passionate about food.

Proper food.

Food grown on proper farms. Not industrial units.

When Adam comes back from getting another round in:

[Pavel ] “Perhaps you’d like me to go away?”

No! Not Ian.


Pavel disagrees with the Super Dairy

[Pavel] “You produce it, he prepares it. You make a pretty good team.”

Well, sometimes. Cracks seem to be appearing over the Super Dairy. Though Pavel seems to agree with Adam’s side of the ‘discussion’.

[Pavel] “Agri business always wins in the end … proper food. If everyone demanded good food, they’d be no agri business.”

Tad simplistic, but I take Pavel’s point.


England: a safe haven for gay men

Who’d have thunk it.

[Pavel] “That would be very unusual in my county. You and Ian. Living like you do.”

Keira left her fluffy pig

At Brookfield.

Lucky Ed was over there fixing their quad bike.

She wouldn’t have got to sleep otherwise.

Keira not sleeping might have sent Emma over the edge.


Emma’s only got Ed

Ruth and David seem to be uncomfortable about Emma being definite that Keith was the arsonist.

They’re worried that the Police only seem to now be hunting down “one line of enquiry.”

[Emma] “Not even mu own mum, believes me. David, Ruth, everyone’s saying, are you sure, are you sure … Emma must have got it wrong, that’s what they all think … what if I have Ed, what if I’ve done that to uncle Keith and it was nothing to do with him. He’s always been so lovely to me. I can hardly believe it myself. But I did see him Ed, I did. I did. But I keep thinking … should I just ring again, tell them I wasn’t right, I’d got it wrong?”

After nearly convincing herself she could have been wrong, Ed convinces her that she was right.

[Ed] “I believe you Emma … and if Keith did that, if he pit all our lives at risk, then he’s got to face up to what he did … he needs banging up Em, and that’s all there’s to it.”

Adam to leave Ambridge?

Seems increasingly likely to me.

He’s between Brian and a hard place.

[Adam] “When did Brian ever compromise for me?”

Ian’s not sure Adam is being fair to Brian. Adam’s definite Brian’s not being fair to him. His chat with Pavel gave him more than food for thought:

[Adam] “I like his vision. It’s like the way I used to feel in Africa … I sometimes wish I was back in that world.”

What’s Adam’s options?

He stays, and has a tiny bit of Home Farm to work the way he wants to. While the Super Dairy usurps the rest.

Or go, and have the working life he craves.

Question is, would Ian go with him?

The kids aren’t even safe at Heather’s: Wed 04.07.12

(who’d have thought it … !)

The Archers Wednesday 4th July 2012

• Yet more chat about cigarettes
• The Ambridge games will be international
• Going to the pub doesn’t come naturally for Adam
• Ruth does some mopping
• “YOU BASTARD!”
• Jill Vs. the Gang
• Seems Pavel is a bit of a dish
• What interview?
• Ambridge Mixed Vs. St Mags
• “Gość w dom, woda w zupie”
• Was Ian enjoyng Pavel’s humour too much?

Yet more chat about cigarettes

If I didn’t know about just being one amongst millions, I’d swear the residents of Ambridge were trying to wind me up.

It was one of Adam’s fruit pickers again. Pavel. Adam caught him, again, skiving off to have a cigarette.

The later, Ian and Pavel were talking cigarettes again. Ian’s a smoker, so is on Pavel’s rather than Adam’s side.

[Ian] “He doesn’t understand the weakness.”

Seems every eavesdropping episode of the last 12 days has had a mention of smoking.

Though the last 12 days have also been completely smoke free for me …


The Ambridge games will be international

Pavel’s getting a team together. After he’d seen a poster asking for teams to sign up. And after some bloke in Jaxx had encouraged him … Pavel was surprised to hear Adam say that was his cousin, Kenton.

You can always spot a newcomer to Ambridge. They don’t know that nearly everyone has sprung from the same Archer well!


Going to the pub doesn’t come naturally for Adam

Bless.

Adam still hadn’t thought of a replacement for the cancelled Tree Top Adventure fruit picker trip.

Pavel suggested the pub.

Adam was astonished! He’d never have thought a herd of young people, far away from home, would enjoy spending time in a public house.

And the wee toots has to beg Ian to accompany them, for moral support.


Ruth does some mopping

As Emma’s called in to say she can’t make it.

Darn that Emma. Ruth probably had to spend a few hours trying to work out which end to use.


“YOU BASTARD!”

The phone goes at Brookfield. David answers:

[Bad man] “Quiet without the kids, isn’t it … we know where they are …”

[David] “YOU BASTARD. You touch my kids … “

Oh my.

David’s quite right to wonder how the gang know where the kids are.

I suppose they could have followed Ruth when she dropped them off.

Or tapped the phones.

Or are checking Josh’s Facebook (and the like).

But.

More likely the gang can only see that the kids have gone. They’re just playing on David and Ruth’s already frayed nerves.


Jill Vs. the Gang

My money would always be on Jill, no question.

David and Ruth phone Jill right after they’d phoned Heather.

Jill brings her patented calm and jolly good sense. She stops Ruth trying to drive to get Ben and Josh there and then.

[Jill] “It wouldn’t be safe. Not when you’re very upset. It’s a very long way.”

Ruth starts flapping and getting angry.

[Jill] “Look, you out the kettle on David, I want to make a quick call … Right, it’s all sorted … just spoken to Kenton, he’s going to drive you up there in the morning … I knew he’d want to help.”

Good old Jill. She then pops off to make scrambled eggs (easy to get down no matter what, apparently).

And good old Kenton. Nice to see Jill remembering that he can be of use, sometimes.

[Ruth] “I thought they were safe. Maybe they’re not safe anywhere.”

When Jill left the room, Jill then sounded wobbly herself. Seems she was being strong for Ruth.

[David] “I’ve done nothing have I? Do why do I feel that all this is my fault?”

Seems Pavel is a bit of a dish

There seems to be a flood of handsome new men arriving in Ambridge.

Alice is in the pub with Adam, Ian and the pickers – she reckons Pavel is quite tasty indeed.

[Adam] “Ah, if you like the wild, unkept look.”

What interview?

Seems Alice had her interview today. It was a call back. She seemed very nervous about whether she had done well or not.

Did I miss a previous mention of an important interview?


Ambridge Mixed Vs. St Mags

Alice reckons the game against her old school St Mags will be a tough one for Ambridge’s Mixed youngsters cricket teams. Seems St Mags is a “team to be reckoned with.”

[Adam] “That might ruffle a few feathers ...Playing girls against girls … does she have any idea how determined Jamie and Dan are going to be.”

[Alice] “Out for a duck to a female bowler!”

“Gość w dom, woda w zupie”

Is what I think Pavel was teaching Ian to say?

“Guest in the house, water in the soup”

(and please excuse me if I have that completely wrong – had to use Google Translate rather than Babel Fish, which seems to be down)


Was Ian enjoyng Pavel’s humour too much?

Hard to tell, what with Pavel being sooo handsome, but Ian always being sooo nice to everyone.

I wouldn’t have thought so though.

That’s just not Ian’s style.