Life in Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
Starter kit for Ed & Emma
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Nothing to do with the current story-line but rather cute
ArcherphileAugust 21, 2023 at 9:24 AM
ReplyDeleteAnyone still think George is not to blame?
His outburst in the cafe last night was totally unforgivable. The things he said in public were dreadful, wounding, uncalled for, whatever descriptions you want to use.
The thing that most affected me was the fact that nobody came to Helen’s defence. They all just sat there, presumably with their mouths hanging open in amazement.
Even Pip and Stella, who know the background with Rob didn’t try to help. Shame on them
Shame on Emma and most emphatically shame on despicable George. 😡
REPLYDELETE
Lady RAugust 21, 2023 at 9:39 AM
I don’t think Stella was around then AP as she asked Pip what it was all about but certainly shame on Pip… Emma is backing George all the way in his “Rob” like sneaky manipulations and needs to wake up and smell the coffee where he is concerned 😡
George will now as Rob predicted lose his job at Bridge Farm and rightly so, what a pair!
ArcherphileAugust 21, 2023 at 12:58 PM
ReplyDeleteAnd probably threaten to publish his film of Helen ‘losing it’ online if they do sack him!
As for Stella, I know she wasn’t in Ambridge when the Rob business was at his height, but I thought she knew about it from various conversations.
DELETE
maryellenAugust 21, 2023 at 1:26 PM
I don't think I could have continued listening if Pip had joined in the vocal melee in the tea room. Three disputing voices was as much as my ears could take! A foutrh might have been more than the recording.studio could handle. Daisy Badger might not have been physically there at the time.
And to answer your question, Archerphile, yes, I do think George is being unjustly blamed for the part he played in Henry contacting Rob in the first place, and b) Henry fixing a meeting with Rob. Both were Henry's solo initiatives , along with the decision not to tell his mother, so if anyone is to blame then logically it's Henry.
There's no excuse for his venomous attack on Helen which reminded me so much of |Tracy's vitriolic attack on Russ (entirely without evidence. Listeners seem to have forgiven and forgotten where Tracy is concerned.her - will George be so lucky? (Rhetorical question!)
PortiaAugust 21, 2023 at 1:51 PM
ReplyDeleteBecause of Helen’s desire to keep the current Rob situation closely , under wraps,I think only the Bridge Farm family (and Harrison)know that he is back in the Uk and determined to see Jack,so Pip must have been taken aback as much as the rest of the tearoom occupants when Helen burst in to challenge George,whose subsequent behaviour was disgraceful.I don’t think he will be working on the veg boxes anymore as Rob predicted.I don’t think Emma does have such a Rose tinted view of her son anymore,having been recently treated to the wrong end of his tongue herself and there was anger in her voice when she ordered George through to the back of the shop.
REPLYDELETE
MiriamAugust 21, 2023 at 3:01 PM
I was surprised that Ian also knew about Robs return, which became obvious last week in a chat with Kirsty. I too thought it was just the Bridge Farm clan, Kirsty and Harrison who knew.
DELETE
MiriamAugust 21, 2023 at 5:20 PM
What struck me, was that Henry told all to Granny Pat and not Mum Helen...How said this 12yr old lad, feels he can't talk to his mum and vice-versa.
Well done SUSAN !
ReplyDeletePutting your daughter right …….. hope it sinks in.
Ah, Larkrise to Candleford. One of my all time favourite books. Susan goes up in my estimation for liking it too. But I could never get rid of my copy or it’s two sequels.
ReplyDeleteSusan made it clear to Emma that she was not going to part with her copy either.
DeleteAt last Susan 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
ReplyDeleteMaryellen you muse be over the moon - your Toby on a visit and wanting to be introduced to Stella “oops”
I really enjoyed last night’s episode: TA well on trend with a (third) reference to football and Rosie as a little Lioness (maybe she will become a professional footballer!). Then the genuinely amusing and good-natured brotherly banter without the little digs from Rex that T❤️O❤️B❤️Y used to take in his stride - in fact, living on a boat seems to suit Rex, to my ears he sounded more confident and good-humoured than before. I liked him more.
DeleteAnd finally, Susan showing her true worth, and what’s more, recommending a Lark Rise to Candleford - a book I first read as a teenager and have loved ever since. It’s on my personal list of 50 best books in case I ever have to reduce to one bookcase! (I only watched half Ann episode of the tv adaptation, it was so disappointing.);
I agrée completely about the TV version of Larkrise Maryellen. I too only watched part of the first episode and switched off in disappointment!
DeleteWhen I first read the books, we lived very close to the actual locations of ‘Larkrise’ and ‘Candleford’ and it was easy to imagine myself living there some decades earlier. It was almost like having a local guidebook to the area and the writing was wonderful.
Me too, Archerphile! Candleford is Buckingham so growing up in North Bucks with family in Mid-Bucks and first job in South Bucks, made the book’s terrain very easy to relate to.
DeleteReverting to last night’s TA, I thought the Stella thing was the only duff note. If it turns out to be the banal storyline we’re expecting, I just hope it’s very short-lived!
I was a Buckinghamshire girl too Me. Brought up in Iver, South Bucks, schooled at Stoke Poges, worked in North Bucks then just over the border to Oxfordshire.
DeleteSmall world!
Re Thé Stella/Pip/ Toby relationship, I think Toby will will hands down if there ever is a choice to be made.
There's an article in this week's Radio Times about 'The summer of love' in TA. I haven't read it yet but think there might be a spoiler in it about the Stella/Pip/ Toby relationship.
DeleteI’m completely lost by these posts above.
DeleteWhat exactly is the contest under discussion ?
I don't have the RT. but in my mind a lot of the suggestions/spoilers are often just teasers and Red Herrings.
DeleteTA just loves to tease.
I know in my weekly TV guide this is often the case - hints as to the S/L's but not much too spoiling.
I would imagine that the BBC TA release for such weekly guides, will be very similar.
Mrs P - the ‘contest’ was in my imagination. Now that Toby has returned and met Stella and Pip has been quite wary about Stella - I am just imagining Pip might have to make a decision between the two of them. Return to a relationship with Toby or opt for Stella?
DeleteIt’s a 4 page article in the Radio Times, 3 interviews, with Pip & Stella, Mia & Brad and Tracey & Jazzer. There is quite a lot of info which would classify as spoilers if you worry about them, me I love them, I’m the sort of person that reads the last few pages of a novel or the plot of a play I am watching. I still enjoy the journey through the piece.
ReplyDeleteBrilliant episode this evening, the sound of scales crashing to the floor was very loud!
I don’t mind knowing the programme strap lines KP but reading the end of a book 😱
DeletePoor, poor Emma! Disillusionment at its cruellest. At least Natasha was kind to her. (Not the first time Natasha has gone to the aid of a woman in distress.) At one point, I wondered if Natasha was weighing Emma up for a job offer. And as Ema rightly sadi, it isn't how she, Ed and Will have brought George up. This is surely not what any of them deserve.
ReplyDeleteAgree so completely ME.
DeletePoor Emma, at last as she has questioned her faith in her son for some weeks, now the scales across her eyes were finally brought down by that very son himself.
And did we hear a hint of questioning from the lad himself, now that his mother herself bares him ?
It seems the blame for George’s misogyny and behaviour can be laid at the door of the ‘influencer’ who has been twisting the minds of many young men - and now is under house arrest in Romania. I am glad this has been brought to the fore in the Archers as I know many parents are worried about their sons and the time they spend online soaking up this dreadful Content.
DeleteHopefully George can be weaned off these sites and taught that they are very damaging.
Agree with all above comments 100% so scary that George thought his online post was funny!
ReplyDeleteAnd, coincidentally this Andrew Tate is in the news again today for sending out dreadful messages about how women should be treated. I won’t go into details, you can look up in BBC news if you want. It seems very likely to me that this is where George has been getting his ideas from. I just hope Emma can ensure he doesn’t log into such sites again.
ReplyDeleteSaw it but didn't even attempt to read it. George seems to be following such an influencer, which is very disturbing, but it is being highlighted and for a reason.
DeleteNot sure that I am liking it being part of TA and Ambridge though...it's a step too far in my (simple) mind.
I thought that when it was broadcast !
DeleteIt has been in my paper for many months now , about the twisting and turning to do with his arrest etc.
When Emma said that he was angry with Hannah, Helen and Emma herself she said that it was all down to the internet chat online. The BBC should warn listeners about Tate's hateful expressions !
Natasha has reminded me of Black Adder and Baldrick -
ReplyDelete"I Have a Cunning Plan".
Can Natasha spare the time to get involved with the Tea Room, or will she just pave the way for changes, which could so affect both Emma and Fallon, or could it?
I thought Fallon just leased the premises, and what happened there, eas up to her only..💁♀️
I so want to hear Emma talking to her Dad Neil again...
ReplyDeleteI liked very much how Natasha behaved with Emma this evening.
ReplyDeleteI could hear her brain ticking.
I shall look forward to hearing more with Natasha championing Emma into becoming more ambitious and helping her achieve some new goals.
I feel that with what we have heard so far, that the TA team are handling this SL (influencer AT) very well and quite subtly.
And I hope I’m not speaking too soon.
I have learnt a lot, as to how these social media influencers can have such an impact. I knew these existed but not to that extent.
DeleteTA has certainly educated me..
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DeleteThe removed comment was just that my post appeared twice. Once was enough 🤣
DeleteSo it *is* going to be a contest between Toby and Stella then.
ReplyDeleteOr is Pip just experimenting to see which sex she prefers?
And will Rosie end up having a little brother or sister in 9 months time!
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ReplyDeleteI did a post exactly in your vein Archerphile before reading any other comments but it is not here never mind you have said it all for me anyway 👏🏻
ReplyDeletePoor Toby!
ReplyDeletePip is one crazy mixed up kid just now. Poor Toby indeed,but the civilised chat between Susan and Helen tonight was very well done,I thought.
ReplyDeleteKPnuts - have you read the headline for the episode on 7 September?. I do hope nothing happens to Toby. I remember with horror Sean O’Connor’s response when asked about Toby”s possible future and he said something about a fatal accident with farm machinery!
ReplyDelete😳 oh no not another “John”
DeleteOn second thoughts, I’m more worried about his business trip to France next week. Why did the scriptwriters set it up? Was it simply to flesh out his current role? Or is his plane going to crash? (Perhaps I should get out more!)
DeleteRecommend a trip via flightradar24 to somewhere warm and sunny, Maryellen.
DeleteWarm (but not hot) and sunny (but not chilly in the shade).would be wonderful, Sarnia, in my own back garden would do!,
DeleteMy only comment is how infuritating, irritating and infantile, Pip is to me...She's always been "Me, Me, Me".
ReplyDeleteCan't think of any-time when have actually heard her have a real loud, bellow laugh nor join in, whilst also having true and light-hearted fun.
Perhaps others can enlighten me as to when once an event happened.
Come to think of it, I can’t recall the last time I heard anyone in Ambridge give a really hearty laugh, even at social gatherings. They tend to go in for shouting rather than laughing, is my impression.
ReplyDeleteDavid laughed in the recent past, perhaps last week.
DeleteIt was in some conversation with Ben.
ME will be pleased as to this comment, as my favourite moments this week (after my omnibus listen), included Toby. These were:-
ReplyDelete1) Toby getting into the Brookfield Bees with Ruth
2) Toby supervising Rosie in her tree climbing escapade.
3) Toby inviting Stella to the BBQ, and making her welcome as Pips friend.
LL should have hives + bees, which Nigel possibly might have done.
DeleteThe possibilities are endless - LL honey to buy, used in recipes in The Orangery, producing Mead and also beeswax products such as soap etc, to be sold in the Gift Shop.
Another opening for Rex, as Freddie is sadly no more.
Absolutely, Miriam! I think the episode with the bees will be my this year’s favourite. I really felt I was there. It was interesting that stewardship of the bees had passed to Ruth. I imagine it was traditionally a job for the farmer’s wife, though I could be wrong there!
DeleteThe bees were very much Jill’s preserve, as were the hens. But I suppose she is too old, and if like me, too wobbly to be safe around beehives these days.
DeleteAnd I think Toby did say he would be interested in making Mead and adding it to his wine list.
Does Brookfield still have its Orchard, and is this where the hives are?
DeleteOnly a guess but perhaps the sadness at Brookfield relates to Jill.
ReplyDeleteMy guess it is to do with Syksey and Ben is somehow involved. Things, such as letters, are found in Syksey's room at The Laurels, relating to goodness knows what...
DeleteIF Jill is the sadness at Brookfield, just feel it would not be so obviously highlighted so far in advance. TA likes to keep us guessing and giving massive Red Herrings...
To add, this is a strap-line for nearly 2 weeks in advance, about 7th Sept!
DeleteIt could mean anything, such as TB is in the cow herd again, the grass is not suitable for the cows or sheep grazing, Ben gives up his nursing course, Josh's hens get Avian 'flu or similar, the Cruck Barn burns down, Rickyard Cottage starts to subside..the possibilties are endless..and pointless at the moment.
Not forgetting the Brookfield Bees might succumb to an infection!
DeleteJill was my first thought too, Portia - especially as Ruth seems to have taken on Jill's role, cooking a dinner equal to Jill's and demonstrating her expertise with the bees. (Though it didn't stop some FB contributors re-hashing the tired old gag about Ruth's cooking.) Also, Jill has been 'off stage' on several family occasions recently, having her coffee taken to her , etc.
DeleteThen it occurred to me the headline might be hinting at Toby (hence my earlier, panicky post). If Pip and Stella are going to settle down together in the bungalow (please not!) , his urge to see more of Rosie will clearly get in the way. What if he's been brought back only to be got rid of - like Kathy Perks?!
Ruth's pizza doesn't burn properly? Oooh noooo!
DeletePS. My third thought was Bess and my fourth thought was Sykesy. It’s probably best if I don’t put them in order of non-preference in case I’m accused of cold-bloodedness! 🙂
DeleteSo wish Emma will finally take off her "rose tinted" glasses. They certainly slipped off for George, but now seem perfectly back in place as to the GG Head of House-keeping job.
ReplyDeleteWhat is annoying me is that GG, is not yet finished, staff not yet employed, training needs to be given to the required standard (4/5☆), contracts signed, uniforms ordered and altered to fit perfectly, YET are opening in October.
It seems so unrealistic, well to me.
...plus to get well trained, quality staff - the succesful applicants need to apply, be interviewed, give in notice in existing employment, and be ready to start in what 6-8weeks, and will there be staff quarters available for those who re-locate? There's obviously no room in Ambridge, as Hannah is finding out.
DeleteThis whole set-up intrigues me - along with WHO is/are the 60% major owner/s?
Justin Elliot
DeleteStill think it's Adils own family, under a corporate name...with him as the front man. As have said very many times before - why is it that only Adil talks to "the owners" and does not include Oliver in a confereance call. He still owns 40% so deserves to be included.
DeleteA round of applause for Emma Grundy! I predict she’ll end up better qualified than Oliver who had no qualifications or experience in the hospitality and leisure trade when he began running Grey Gables. Fortunately for him, he had no competition
ReplyDeleteOliver also had social status as a wealthy retired farmer.
DeleteEmma will have no such status, but I have always predicted that she will go far.
Remembering the Grey Gables gas explosion, it was Emma not Oliver who kept her head and phoned for help. He was missing from the scene. As he said himself afterwards, he was useless in a crisis. You couldn’t say that of Emma!
DeleteAm pleased that Emma wants to go forwards and is prepared to do what is needed, to able her to do so.
DeleteNatasha has helped her understand this, with their recent chats.
Sorry, I don't believe a registrar can simply cancel a wedding like that. There must be some back-up in place. I know Borsetshire is a different legal entity from the rest of the UK, but just imagine the rumpus elsewhere if a bride turned up in all her finery just to be told, 'Sorry, wedding's off, registrar's gone AWOL.'
ReplyDeleteCouldn't the writers have found a better impediment than that?
Just checked with OMiaS - it is the responsibility of the registrar's office to find a replacement. If OMiaS were suddenly unavailable to conduct a wedding, he would call in another vicar to do so.
But at least they finally managed to tie the knot : )
Must say I thought as you say OwiaS, that it was all a bit lame, but I suppose it was meant to be light entertainment as opposed to the grim Helen SL.
DeleteMy thoughts also OWIAS
DeleteAnd there was a long awaited hearty family laugh to finish off.
ReplyDeleteIt was just a light-hearted interlude episode ending up with the right result - Tracy + Jazzer are now married legally.
ReplyDeleteNot bothered about the missing registrar, as it ended "Happy Ever After", well for now, that is.
I am probably very old fashioned - well I know I am - but I am finding this story and the scenes between Pip and Stella very uncomfortable. For some reason I have no problem with Adam and Ian so it’s not homophobia on my part, but Pip and Stella I cannot deal with.
ReplyDeleteAgree. Last night's episode gave too much air time to them.
DeleteI too have no problem with same-sex couples, but Pip seems so wrong in my mind.
Stella should have bumped into Anna T. in the shop, the Tea Room, The Bull or elsewhere.She then who moves to Ambridge.
A new couple and Anna is on hand to keep an eye on Mum, Carole T.
Just my simple idea.
If this seems disjointed, somehow some thoughts just didn't post.
DeleteProbaly my fault.
ARCHERPHILE
DeleteMight I suggest that as a woman your feelings of discomfort with the interactions between Pip and Stella are similar to men who would find the same discomfort with Adam and Ian, and therefore is homophobia regarding your own gender.
You have posted more than once about Pip being confused and or experimenting.
If one is unsure about something then one is often confused.
It is often the case that a man or a woman will feel confused and possibly fearful of becoming close to a person of their own gender because some part of themselves senses some danger in doing so. They may vocalise a dislike of such closeness in others in order to keep themselves’ safe’
This is known as internalised homophobia.
I do not know, but do wonder if this storyline has been a long term plan within the TA team. It has been speculated that TA needed a lesbian couple for a long time especially within parts of the lesbian community, and if the boys can have Adam and Ian then why can’t the women have something similar.
Homosexual men and women have been required to be invisible for so long. Now that much of society have accepted change - I don’t deny that a desire for the former invisibility still remains with much of society - then we must accept that for many, same sex relationships within a wider extended family circle are the norm.
In respect of Pip being confused, she is only thirty.
It took my confusion, and apparent denial until the age of forty five before I felt able to actually explore my reality, although it quickly became apparent that almost every one who knew me had been waiting for this to happen for years.
It may well be that Pip finds that she is mistaken, but surely she has the right to explore her reality, just as Emma is exploring her ambition, part of her reality.
Regardless of who is involved, I just wish they wouldn't jump into bed on a first date.
DeleteFor a reason which I can't say, I will no longer be giving my Archers thoughts and ideas here again.
ReplyDeleteI can't say why, but it has been necissated, through no fault of my own
However, I will still join in on the other page, with my lovely Archers friends..
...I won't say more, nor will try to even explain. Just accept my decision. It's sad, but feel have no choice. 😪
DeleteAdil was sounding distinctly shifty tonight. What’s going on??
ReplyDeleteJustin has run short of cash
DeleteHad the same thoughts as ME and OwiaS - something is going on.
DeleteAnd Oliver thought so too.
It’s odd that Oliver has never referred to his co-owner(s) as he must know who they are and if it’s Justin, he’s played golf with him! Sometimes I wonder if the scriptwriters themselves know who it is yet! In today’s Guardian, A Month in Ambridge suggests Hazel Woolley and I know some listeners have suggested her too - but I thought there was a strong hint of money troubles when she was last in Ambridge.
DeleteI’d like it to be A.N.Other, but if it has to be one of the existing cast, I agree Justin seems the most likely.
My problem with Pip and Stella is just that I find them both to be unpleasant, abrasive characters. i think they are well-suited.
ReplyDeletePip 30yrs - yikes I felt more settled and mature at 20 than she appears to be these days and I’m not referring to the fact that she is / was embarking on a same sex relationship. Her talking is always so anxious, jerky and irritating for me. Also I’m with Mistral why can’t relationships grow a little and be portrayed as a full and rewarding package and not just predominantly sex and that goes for all relationships heterosexual or gay. ( I was not surprised that Stella was miffed at being shoved out of the door as it showed Pip was embarrassed)
ReplyDeleteI reckon this SL has been in the pipeline for sometime!
I don’t mind Pip, who I’ve got used to over the years, but I’m unsure about Stella. She reminds me of a Cadbury’s Milk Tray chocolate.- hard on the outside and a semi-liquid inside which runs all over your fingers! Under her professional exterior, I suspect she is quite needy. But perhaps I’m being unfair.
ReplyDeleteI apologise if my comments re Pip and Stella have offended anyone, especially you, Mrs P.
ReplyDeleteI do not like this storyline, probably more because it involves Pip, whom I thoroughly dislike, than anything else.
I shall therefore refrain from commenting on this particular story again and stick to other happenings in Ambridge
I’m too old in the tooth to be offended ARCHERPHILE, but must admit to having been somewhat irritated over the comments re confusion.
DeleteAs Lady R says, at twenty she was far more settled and mature than Pip at 30, but like me she- Lady R suspects this has been a long time a’coming in TA plots, and perhaps that is why Pip has been portrayed in the way that she has.
I agree that she has been confused in her dealings with both Toby and Stella, but it is confusing when one fails to FULLY understand what is going on with one’s feelings about relationships.
And I do think this latest rude behaviour of hiding Stella from Ruth is a further manifestation of her confusion, particularly since she had told her dad of her feelings.
Please don’t feel you need to stop commenting on this SL - we are all entitled to our opinions, and I hope your not offended by me commenting to you about confusion. And that apology is extended to Miriam too if she feels offended regarding this matter.
As I’ve said on other occasions I don’t find Pip as excruciating as some others do, but I do recognise in her quite a lot of behaviour that I’ve seen in others struggling with her emotions in such matters as we are now privy to.
And to clarify, I volunteered for years on women’s help lines and believe you me, there were many women such as Pip needing help to sort out there confusions regarding sexuality.
I’m not keen on the Pip/Stella storyline.because sentimentally, I had my fingers crossed for T❤️O❤️B❤️Y and Pip to settle down happily together at Brookfield, provide Rosie with a much needed sib or two, and eventually inherit. In real life I would accept the situation, but as it’s fiction, I’ll continue to hope!
ReplyDeleteI am pleased for you that you’ve worked that out ARCHERPHILE, and I understand your feelings about Pip even though I don’t share them.
ReplyDeleteAs it happens, I’m not at all keen on Stella ( or Hannah) and find them both harsh and abrasive.
And like you I would have found it very welcoming if this SL had been about Kirsty, who I do like a lot, even tho’ I also find her irritating…….sometimes !
I think Pat has a good reason to be worried.
ReplyDeleteHelen running twice in one day and she, Pat, obviously suspects that Helen is not eating well, and we know she isn’t.
Signs that Helen is developing her anorexia again ?
As for Brad and Mia ?
Well it’s out in the open, not hidden as in the case of Pip.
I do hope that reality is acknowledged amongst the families and the couples actions not vilified.
Let's hope Pat's beef stew puts an end to the overworked blog joke about soup!!
ReplyDeleteSorry, that was mean of me. Of course people have every right to make soup jokes and all TA’s other food-related blog jokes for as long as they like. fThere’s little enough to smile at these days!
DeleteI think the Pip / Stella storyline is quite realistic. Pip has lived close to her family and conformed with what her family wants for her, most of her life. The female same-sex relationship will take a bit of getting used to in a small farming community. It’s all still new to her so I think she will need some time to adjust to the new situation.
ReplyDeleteIan and Adam were a couple for a long time before they had a child.
I’m with you Mrs P on both counts! For once I found myself smiling at a bedroom scene two decent and caring people in a relationship - hopefully no baby though. Contraception was mentioned but did it mean the here and now or just for the future and did I hear a we have been sensible? That might mean we crossed our fingers for this one time 😳
ReplyDeleteI definitely think Helens anorexia may be returning. I think in her case it isn’t a body image issue more anxiety/control.
ReplyDeleteI also enjoyed Mia & Brad fumbling their way through consent much better than my own early experiences.
And I remember being delighted when Adam was ‘courting’, though I really wished he had chosen Charlie who I liked better than Ian at the time. The fact that Adam was gay had been signalled for a long time and didn’t come as a shock. We all knew and hoped he would find the right partner and Jenny was very supportive, though Brian much less so.
ReplyDeleteSo I still think my reserve about Pip and Stella is a personality thing and will take more getting used to - for me.
Isn't Henry amazing? So well-balanced and so articulate. I think he's possibly the sanest person in Ambridge!
ReplyDeleteI do hope a gift of three K offered from Sikesy to Ben is not the prelude to aSL about vulnerable elders leading a trail to innocent Ben.
ReplyDeleteOh Ben, Sykesy has dropped you in it now especially if he dies. Either way a cheque for 3K made out to you will look really bad and an enquiry looms. If Jill is questioned she will have to say S was slagging Ben off therefore any enquiry would think it strange he would willingly be offering money of his own accord. You get my drift?
ReplyDeleteHenry you are by far the most sensible inhabitant of Ambridge ⭐️
I wrote my comments before reading any others but it appears I am on the same page as ME and Mrs P….
ReplyDeleteMrs, P and Lady R.,my heart too sank at the end of last night’s programme as Syksie appeared to be suffering a stroke.SadlyI fear that there will,unfairly be trouble ahead for poor Ben .
ReplyDeleteIf the Sykesy storyline brings yet more misery to the programme it might be the nail in the coffin for me and TA.
ReplyDeleteFingers crossed it’s another of the scriptwriters’ red herrings, in the run up to tomorrow’s ominous episode. Not that I’m overfond of Sykesy, who I think is a waste of air space, but as others have said, I’d rather not have another angst-ridden situation involving Ben, just when he’s starting to get his life back on track.
ReplyDeletePrecisely maryellen
DeleteIt hadn't occured to me that the cheque could look bad for Ben.
ReplyDeleteWith hindsight, he should have immediately reported the offer to management so it could be documented and leave no room for suspicion. Ben is too trusting to think of such things, but there should be a company policy about such approaches and Ben should have been told if this policy when he started. I don't imagine this is the first time such an offer has been made by an elderly resident to a carer.
It occurred to me the moment Sykesy said that he wanted to give Ben a present.
ReplyDeleteMy mother cared to their end for at least three of her older friends, and was always aware of this problem.
As a part time carer for several different ladies in recent years, I’ve been very careful with each one’s daughters about offers made to me by my client.
It’s a minefield of boundaries !
Re the “sad news” we are expecting this evening, my fifth and final thought is Robin F who has had a health problem within recent memory. What inspired the thought however was remembering T❤️O❤️B❤️Y telling Ruth in the scene with bees that he felt he had gained enough confidence to take over the running of his father’s business, clearly with Robin’s retirement in mind. If my hunch is right, what would be the implications for Rosie and her parents (if any)?
ReplyDeleteTwo lots of sad news ME, but not what you speculated upon.
DeleteSikesy may go to a nursing home at some distance, but of far greater significance, Helen admitting ( positive ! ) that not only is she struggling, but is fearful that she has become ill again.
We said Pat had good reason to be worried, and we were correct.
I had a lovely encounter this evening.
ReplyDeleteUp on North Hill - took Lady to one of her favourite rabbiting haunts and while she snuffled around after rabbit smells I feasted on the late blackberries.
There were two camper vans parked near to each other and inside one I found an older lady reading. She gave Lady a drink and we then sat together chatting.
She is 89.
Still driving her camper van which she has had for many years.
A widow for forty years.
The van had broken down and the rescue service, unable to find a suitable pickup had advised her that nothing could be done until tomorrow other than sending her back to Surrey but without her van. She had opted to stay overnight in her van.
I offered to get her anything she might need and also offered to take her a mug of cocoa late evening.
With good humour she declined both.
What an inspiration !
Very interesting though Mrs P. I could picture the scene so well from your description
Deleteand good on acquaintance I take my hat off to her!
Oops
ReplyDeleteSorry, wrong blog !
I’ve taken the liberty of duplicating that post on the other blog MrsP, hope you don’t mind.
DeleteThank you KP - I did think later that I should have done that myself or asked you to do it for me.
DeleteNow you have, without me asking
Lovey dovey all round in Ambridge tonight then !
ReplyDeleteAnd George showing yet again what a prat he is.
I thought George might try to spoil things between Brad and Mia and am glad that it didn’t work..Although I don ‘t like George I can’t help feeling sorry for him as in spite of bragging to the contrary he doesn’t Seem to have loads of mates and relies on Brad for company..
ReplyDeleteCovering low self esteem with the big guy act 🤔
DeleteGeorge has certainly inherited the Grundy way with words. Never at a loss - unlike poor Brad. No wonder George was so good at producing marketing copy for the Bridge Farm website. I think that's the direction he should go in.
ReplyDeleteWell I was really happy that Brad put George in his place and that he and Mia planned to spend the night together at his. So good to hear of an actual caring relationship in Ambridge based on real feeling even though early days (and not just raw sex)
ReplyDeleteI thought tonight’s episode was going to be Pip and Stella telling Ruth that they are a couple -
I can’t see why Pip is embarrassed to do this Ruth knows she is in love with a woman now and as she really doesn’t go anywhere it has to be someone they know and as Ruth apparently sees Stella as one of her best friends surely that should make it all the easier. The village in general may well be a different kettle of fish for her Pip even though her love life is no one else’s business!
Going out with your mother's best friend, now that's an interesting dynamic ...
ReplyDeleteTesting
ReplyDeleteMy message about the possibility of an Ambridge eternal triangle with a difference (or two) won’t publish. I guess Blogger can’t handle it either!
ReplyDeleteDo we know how old Stella is? Nearer in age to Ruth or Pip?
ReplyDeleteThe actors themselves are (Pip) 33yrs and (Stella) 47yrs but are their characters the same age? Seems about right for PIp though. Could not even find Stella mentioned on the pages of Archers characters. Apparently an article in The Guardian is querying a possible relationship between Ruth and Stella - what!!!
DeletePip is 30, Ruth is 55,, Stella sounds early 40s to me. Hope that’s helpful, Archerphile.
Delete.
Thank you Maryellen. I wondered which age Stella was nearer to because a while ago it seemed that she and Ruth were set to become best friends, possibly more. (According to FB rumours). Now she is attracted to Ruth’s daughter. And becoming an auntie/playmate for Ruth’s granddaughter.
DeleteI still find it inconceivable that Ruth hasn’t realised what’s going on, especially when Pip uttered the L word in the pub the other night.
It seems to me that Pip is still suffering from a little bit of internalised homophobia.
ReplyDeleteShe is not ready Stella.
Be warned !
I think it’s Pip who needs the warning . She could get badly hurt, if as I suspect Stella is stringing her along.
DeleteStella seems all for telling Ruth & Rosie though, in soap style Ruth will find out before being told and then there will be fallout from David knowing and not telling her.
DeleteAgree there is likely to be pain in various ways for all concerned, but pain is part of life’s journey and cannot be avoided.
DeletePips current or recent confusion is part of her pain and if ME is correct and Stella is stringing her along ( and I would be interested to know what has given you that impression ME ? ) then that too is part of her journey.
If ME is right,then it’s likely that Stella has experienced this kind of situation before, - a newbie, trying it out - and is aware of the pain it can cause her if she does become emotionally involved.
Emotional boundaries, when allowed to dissolve, can create huge pain when comes the fallout.
I thought it was Stella in the shop tonight (so another bland voice) and who is her brother her name according to the cast list is Lottie 🤔 a thought Paul! Well informed on moles so probably a nurse,
ReplyDeleteIn that case does she know Ben or about to….
I admit to losing the plot but which one of Pip’s brothers “likes” Paul - Ben or Josh I feel sure one was not sure if he is gay or bi-sexual no hang on am I thinking of Ruairi? My goodness bring back Dan & Doris / Phil & Jill I knew where I was then 🫢
💬
ReplyDeleteI thought the unknown woman might have been Ardil's sister, he is a closed book. Poss doctor? I'm not sure if health workers would randomly go around commenting on people's skin conditions though.
ReplyDeleteViewers of tv do Mistral usually nurses. Some years back a Corrie actress was contacted about a visible mole and advised to get it checked out which she did after which she was extremely grateful to the viewer for her observation.
DeleteShirley Ballas - Strictly head judge was similarly contacted regarding a small lump under her arm on show due to the particular dress she was wearing on that evenings show got checked out and was also so grateful for the observation and the call made.
It wasn't the woman from the charging station public meeting was it? P.R. consultant? Or Helen's cheese rival? I've obviously got nothing better to do today than speculate on unknown fictional women.
ReplyDeleteI don’t know more than anyone else who she might be, but I can’t agree that her voice was bland.
DeleteI thought she was buoyant and expressive.
Someone on FB said Jim’s mole was inspired by a current campaign to promote awareness of skin cancer in the elderly.
ReplyDeleteJust what I needed to brighten my day!
ReplyDeletePrecisely Sarnia combined with adverts for Cancer and funerals all part of life it’s true but so targeted and frequently shown.
DeleteI'm rapidly coming to the conclusion that a toy boy with a sports car is the only conceivable solution!😆
DeleteNot to mention the stairlifts. I'm particularly irritated by the man who has got his life back by installing one. Then when he reaches the tip of the stairs he leaps out of it like a gazelle and goes strolling off!
ReplyDeleteI must admit I thought it was the woman from the charging station meeting, but then Jim would have recognised her because he spoke to her after the meeting.
ReplyDeleteProbably more likely to be either Ardil or Paul’s sister I think.
And yes, yet another public health warning campaign being taken up in TA. Do the Powers That Be think we are all idiots who never watch the news, read magazines or papers so have to be warned about everything? What’s next? The dangers of children vaping or charging electric scooters under the stairs?
The mystery woman's name is Azra Malik (played by Yasmin Wilde) - if that helps!
DeleteThen likely to be .someone connected to Ardil ?
DeleteIt might explain why Ardil has been distracted recently.
DeleteArdil ‘s surname is Shah but then if his sister is married she would of course have a different surname so we wait and see….
ReplyDeleteSeen on a FB public page somewhere, something which just peaked my thoughts.
ReplyDeleteThis is that the unknown female is the new GP, which Helen will hopefullyee.
Perhaps the brother was just a usual TA "red herring" and so someone not known...
Think it likely that Helen’s relief at the call from Robs brother ( or was it the solicitor ?) might be short lived.
ReplyDeleteI can’t see Rob giving up wanting to see his son simply because his application to the Court has been quelled.
He will find another way.
Precisely Mrs P! It was obvious what Ruth was assuming regarding Lottie - both single mums and you are beautiful etc. Why should it make any difference to Ruth that Stella is Pip’s partner just because Stella is a friend of hers.I gather Stella is in the middle age wise.
DeletePip 30, Stella 45 and Ruth in her mid 50’s (?) it’s not as though Ruth wants Stella as her own partner. She will of course be cross that when she mentioned tomDavid it could be Stella he poo poohed it whilst knowing the truth. Oh what a tangled web etc etc
Does anyone know when the 20,000th episode is - or perhaps was? The BBC News site has a feature on it (“Queen raises glass”) but gives no date.
ReplyDeleteAccording to a copy of Radio Times the 20,000th edition was on Friday 9th June . However the cast and various people were at a reception in Birmingham on Thursday evening.
DeleteYes, it has been confusing that the BBC reported the Queen’s opinion of Rob at yesterdays reception, along with a photo of her cutting a cake with June Penser to celebrate 70 years of The Archers some time ago. I believe the RT is correct, the 20,000th episode was back in June.
DeleteI hadn't twigged that a reception was being held in September for an event that had occurred in June (which I'd either missed or forgotten about ). Thanks for putting me straight!
DeleteI found the whole business of Ruth thinking Pip’s new partner is Lottie was a complete farce.
ReplyDeleteVery contrived and predictable. And Pip’s refusal to tell Ruth the truth is stringing out a ridiculous tale of Ruth still being in the dark! She has eyes and ears and should be able to put two and two together.
I agree with it being contrived. I think that the whole storyline becoming very tedious.
DeleteThe mystery woman turning out to be the new GP doesn’t rule out the possibility that she is Adil’s sister too - and if that turns out to be the case, virtually everyone who guessed at her identity will be happy!
ReplyDeleteAt least she had a raft of free appointments 🤭
DeleteWish she'd come here. Last week the phone message was, 'Sorry, owing to a nationwide IT failure we are unable to access any of our medical records'.
ReplyDeleteThis week it's been, 'We are experiencing an unusually high volume of calls. Go online or come back tomorrow'. I pressed 5 to hear the options again and instead found myself no 14 in the queue.
I'm seriously considering moving to Ambridge, where getting a repeat prescription would obviously be much easier!
Time must be running out for Rob if the brain tumour diagnosis was correct,so,I agree that he will stop at nothing,while he still able,to meet his son.While I detest the man, as a final act,it might be a kindness if,by mutual agreement between the families ,an arrangement for a secure venue can be chosen where he could see the boy without having the contact he craves.
ReplyDeleteThat is a very generous thought Portia. While Helen is in the state she is in I can’t see that happening though.
DeleteBut I doubt her apparent assumption that ‘it’s all over’. And I really hope that, when Rob does eventually leave this mortal coil, she will not be harassed by his family with accusations of blame and cold-heartedness
Of course there will be Rob’s will in which he may have left everything to his son Jack (maybe even Henry will get a small mention) and if so will strings be attached in some way.
DeleteYet again Helen will be torn not wanting to touch anything connected with Rob yet Jack could have say a good education via his “gift”. Or maybe left in a trust until 18yrs old therefore nothing she can do about it as Jack would have to be informed. Another Ruaire
type SL for those still listening on Jack’s 18th 🫢 if indeed TA is still around!
Portia -
DeleteI agree with your sentiments.
I’ve had much the same in my thoughts, but further thought leads me to feel that not seeing his son is part of the punishment for Rob that he deserves for his actions.
And should the consequences of actions be mitigated because the perpetrator is close to death.
I believe I saw a short piece somewhere last week about a ninety plus year old ex nazi being punished for his actions in a concentration camp during WW11 ( this may not have been current news, rather historical )
Harsh ?
Perhaps yes, but punishment should be punishment I feel.
And indeed, would an act of kindness be accepted and appreciated by Rob.
Would it be enough ?
I rather suspect the SW s would set him up for yet more, rather than enough .
There is nothing legally binding as to why Miles can't see Jack, although Helen + Lee would be so against this.
ReplyDeleteIn my thoughts, Miles could arrange with Helen to see Jack from a distance, take photos of Jack to show Rob, who will then see his son as he is now...
Anyone thinking of submitting a paper for next years Archers Academic conference - there are only 2 weeks left if you have a bright idea.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if our previous organiser Gary Gilday will be doing so - or even if he still listens to TA?
I suspect he will not and does not AP !
DeleteMiriam, good to see you back.I think your suggestion re the Rob saga would be a good compromise,involving both families..
ReplyDeleteI think Miriam’s compromise is a good suggestion too, but I doubt it would be considered enough by Rob. He will want the full works with no compromises.
DeleteI'm not impressed by Ruth accepting Stella's help then talking to her like that.
ReplyDeleteOh dear Ruth !
ReplyDeleteThat was nasty and beneath you.
And why did David lie ? He knew it was Stella Pip was ‘ having feelings for’.
I sympathise with Ruth. I think Stella is using Pip as a stopgap. There have been glimpses of her character that I find disenchanting.. Her little-kitten-lost-in-snow voice (well that’s what it’s called in this house!) when she turned up on Pip’s doorstep was one of them.
ReplyDeleteThe perils of living so near to and working with your parents Pip, even at 30yrs you have to keep mummy informed in all aspects of your personal life no waiting until you are ready. I am not particularly a PIp fan but tonight Ruth really annoyed me 😡
ReplyDeleteAs for Freddie I’d totally forgotten he had gone roaming the world now another mum tasked with trying to find a grown up son some work. ( Vince sounded like Sykesy to me tonight)
I'm glad Lark Rise is continuing to get the praise it deserves. (I'm prepared to bet the bloggers who complain it's being over-exposed have never read it!) I think it would be an excellent choice for Lynda to adapt for the Ambridge Christmas show, staged in the Brookfield barn of course - or perhaps have a Lark Rise-themed Christmas event there with Fallon and Emma involved. It would be a heartwarming way to end the year, and sure to appeal to all those Ambridge second homers who've bought into the rural idyll.
ReplyDeleteI’m getting carried away with this idea! Even better would be an. evening, of immersive theatre (maybe several) with the audience physically immersed in the world of Lark Rise,, possibly in the role of villagers, interacting with the cast as they go about their business, usually withfood and drink involved. (You get a three course meal in the immersive version of Mamma Mia in London.). A cross between a play and an event.
DeleteI saw on one of the FB groups that the radio 4 are putting on Lark Rise to Ambridge in a couple of weeks time, ( Sunday 1st October) hence the book plugging.
DeleteFallon could also sell all her equipment, ovens and such, or put it in storage for different premises.
ReplyDeleteWe can be sure Natasha will have factored in a researched second hand price - minus 10% - to offer Fallon, which would ensure that her figures won’t add up when she would have to buy new equipment for the cafe instead of ‘ inheriting’ Fallons.
Business is business, sure, but it’s cutthroat big city business being applied to a small rural enterprise not too dissimilar to their own Bridge Farm.
Do Pat and Tony know about this stitch up ?
And well done Emma, supportive even when excited by her own good news of acceptance on her English course.
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ReplyDeleteI think Fallon should bid for the cafe at the charging station and make it such a success that it takes all the custom and leaves Natasha's up-market Bridge Farm Impressive Eaterie totally empty.
ReplyDelete✔️✔️✔️✔️✔️
DeleteOh Ruth you’ve got me all wound up again, as already said Pip is not a favourite character of mine but I was very much on her side tonight and so pleased when she said to Ruth I’m a grown woman now. Ok so she may get hurt but you simply cannot tell a grown up daughter or son what to do in such circumstances. Did Ruth honestly think Pip would say if you think I shouldn’t be having this relationship then of course I’ll tell Stella straight away that it’s over and by the way mum thanks I know you are so wise 😡
ReplyDeleteI also felt for Fallon my god Natasha certainly tells it like it is, Tom bumbles on after she has spoken trying to pour oil on troubled waters whilst approving the new cafe idea but all without any aggro on the way 😳
(That’s me done! 😂)
Are you saying Ruth shouldn’t care whether her daughter gets hurt or not? All I heard was Ruth explaining her position and expressing her doubts about the situation. It was either that’s or lie through her teeth or stay silent which would have spoken for itself.
ReplyDeleteIt’s because I prefer the activity-based storylines to the personal relationship-based storylines that I’ve started inventing my own, I think.
I really hope Fallon doesn’t simply roll over and accept what Tom/Tasha are offering! I think she should go and talk to Pat and Tony and tell them exactly what was said last night. I think they will be horrified that she is being treated so shabbily and didn’t realise what T/T we’re going to say.
ReplyDeleteFallon has poured her heart and souls into that business, drawn people to visit Bridge Farm, probably provided the farm with new and returning customers. And now they just want to take the whole thing over and give her a job as manager?!
Not on!
Any lease holder knows their lease may not be renewed for whatever reason. As Natasha rightly said, it’s a business decision which Bridge Farm are perfectly entitled to make. If Fallon has poured her heart into the tea room, it’s been mainly forher own benefit, as you’d expect from a business owner. Don’t forget she’s been using Bridge Farm premises to advertise her other businesses. And unlike all the real life Wilko staff, Bridge Farm’s decision offers Fallon and Emma further employment. - I agree with Natasha in not making it personal.
DeleteI like many others think Fallon will take on the cafe at the charging station. She should take all her kitchen equipment with her and make sure that all her existing clients know where she is going & why. She should take her furniture business online & maybe ask the Ambridge Fairy to help her find a suitable barn or out-building locally, thinking Broookfiels or Lower Locksley here.
ReplyDeleteNatasha would then be committed to higher set-up costs (labour refitting the kitchen in addition to cost of ovens etc) she would need to find more staff as even if Emma stays she couldn’t cope long term single handed and I am not sure her aspirational scandi image is what people really want either. She might make this fly but I am not sure, there again this is Ambridge
Others have pointed out the disadvantages to Fallon of the charging station idea. What seems far more appropriate is for Fallon to find another suitably located, rentable space for a tearoom/furniture workshop and set up there. That’s if she wants to pursue the tearoom option. She has other options as Emma pointed out. Look at Ian’s example of successful diversification!
DeleteIf Fallon has been there for more than 5 years I think that she would have to be paid compensation if it continues to be run as a cafe. Go and see Usha Fallon.
ReplyDelete“I will do any job at all I just want to work” says Freddie - just not at the The Hall which I am going to inherit someday and with Elizabeth’s health who can tell when that might be! Come the day Lily will run it for him I guess whilst he remains at the Abattoir.
ReplyDeleteWhat’s with George now - there must be a reason he is encouraging Emma to apply for tearoom manager….what an old cynic I am 🤭
Free grub??
DeleteTo get one back on Fallon?
DeleteBoth correct comments “me thinks” 😂🤣
DeleteCouldn’t believe how enthusiastic Freddie sounded about training at the abattoir, though I did predict Vince would make him the offer again. Sounded as though he’d do anything rather than work at LL, even at such an unpleasant place of work.
ReplyDeleteExactly maybe cutting off his nose to spite his face! Will he refuse to inherit LL come the day and bequeath it to Lily…..
DeleteWill there still be a board of Trustees after Freddie inheirits, to protect the estate?
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts too Mistral, or alternatively when / if would Freddie be in a position to expel the trustees.
DeleteI do know something about trustees ( I’ve managed over the last eighteen months to dodge becoming a trustee ) but I don’t know everything - others might ?
Too late I reckon Fallon the job is now bound to go to Emma and if anything you will be offered a job as her staff member! Freddie somewhat hyper I hope he can manage to keep focused on his objectives and make progress.
ReplyDeleteHow’s this for an idea? Building on Lynda’s previous offer of a loan, Fallon goes into partnership with her, merging their interests in the hospitality trade. Emma gets the Bridge Farm job and Ambridge is full of happy bunnies!
ReplyDeleteI’d forgotten about Linda’s offer maryellen ummm!
DeleteI don't think that Ambridge full of happy bunnies is going to happen any time soon, what would we do without all the misery and angst?
DeleteKnowing the scriptwriters’ love of confrontational drama, I was expecting some kind of confrontation between Fallon and Emma over the Bridge Farm job, so was pleasantly surprised it didn’t happen like that - though sorry Emma had her career hopes dashed yet again. Somehow I don’t think that’s the end of the tea room manager story!
DeleteExactly maryellen! Natasha has yet to read Emma’s e.mail so if /when things go belly up with Fallon she may yet get her chance. Natasha still has to speak with family regarding Fallons bonus request once she sees Emma’s application and no doubt willing to go with TA bonus idea she may yet get the offer…….
DeleteNew thread opened
ReplyDelete