Life in Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
So Lily is off to Australia, she might see this.
BasiaJune 1, 2026 at 3:51 PM
ReplyDeleteI wonder what went wrong with Martyn Gibson's lunch at GG yesterday, his partner walked out and he ended up at the Bull. Perhaps we'll find out more.
REPLY
MiriamJune 1, 2026 at 4:31 PM
Perhaps his "companion" decided that brunch with Martyn wasn't as expected, so wanted a quick + easy exit! 😉🤣
BasiaJune 1, 2026 at 7:22 PM
So now we know - Martyn wasn't sure and eager to escape, so he gave Ian the benefit of his management experience.
Tom stood up to Natasha - we carry on with the tried and tested vegetable business.
maryellenJune 2, 2026 at 7:23 AM
I don’t think making Ian seem stupid and inexperienced in order to provide a comic interlude with Martyn G. is one of your best ideas, TA team! Nearly.as bad as that Christmas Carol spoof.
Ian is so not cut out to be the GG Acting General Manager.
ReplyDeleteI hope Head Office sends Dane's replacement soon, and Ian can then return to his love of food + local produce. He also needs to get his quality time with Xander and Adam back again.
Is this too much to hope for??
I enjoyed the lighthearted Grundy banter this evening, along with Alice at her best, formulating ideas on how to help her father and being proactive in approaching Ed.
DeleteThe flow of the programme was also much improved IMO.
In this respect I would cite the interaction between the conversation twixt Alice and Ed being interrupted by Rex arriving, and immediately leaving along with Brian’s entrance too.
Very slick !
I don’t usually pay so much attention to such technical context, but for me tonights episode really shone in this respect.
An altogether better episode than those on offer recently from Katie Himms (sp?) which in one way or another I have found it difficult to listen to.
I’m unaware of this weeks writer, it may still be her. Others will know.
Just checked: Shaun McKenna, yes, I liked all the Grundy men together, the three generations, a bit of a respite from the constant Home Farm drama, never too far away though.
DeleteMiriam, I agree, if Ian was in charge of food that contrived scenario at GG and later with Martyn Gibson would not have taken place, as Maryellen said too.
ReplyDeleteA laugh out loud episode in places tonight what a joy!
ReplyDeleteThat’s the kind of humour I like - verbal banter, not ridiculous situations! 😀
DeleteClearly we all enjoyed last nights banter - let’s hope TA does read our posts.
DeleteI agree that yesterday’s episode was much better and I enjoyed it. Lately have not been enjoying the episodes to the point that I thought I might give up altogether. So this well written episode has helpful to regenerate my interest.
DeleteWhat struck me about last night's episode, was the comparison between families.
ReplyDeleteThe Aldridges are in turmoil and it shows.
The Grundy males having quality time together + enjoying it, along with camaraderie and understanding.
Almost always the same over the decades, the posh Aldridge family = Angst
DeleteThe humble Grundys = Humour
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DeleteNatasha and Helen conspiring - me thinks as the song goes “There may be trouble ahead”🫢
ReplyDeleteFelt a little uncomfortable- Tom preventing Helen from grasping her opportunity followed by Helen feeling she has to agree with Natasha grasping hers.
DeleteTom telling Helen that she can’t spend money they have not got, followed by Natasha explaining her ambitions to spend …… money they have not got !
Natasha said money they had not got “yet”. Isn’t she aiming to make money with the new product she was telling Helen about? I admire her industriousness.
DeleteI don’t remember Pat or anybody else criticising Elizabeth on principle for sending L8y and Freddie to the Cathedral School, which I assume is private. I wonder why it hasn’t been mentioned, maybe it’s only secondary age?
DeleteI should have remembered! The state v private debate came up in 2010. (Isn’t Google wonderful?) What is wrong with Borchester Green?, said Jill. The twins went to Loxley Barret Primary (state) before the Cathedral School (private). Shula also sent Daniel to the Cathedral. No one was in favour of boarding school so that ruled out Nigel’s fictional one though it was what he wanted.
DeleteActually...”There’s nothing wrong with Borchester Green”, said Jill!
DeleteApparently, Alastair wasn’t happy about the Cathedral School for Daniel but succumbed when the boy’s other grandparents stumped up the fees.
Remember Freddie was struggling academically, even at an early age. Didn't Lizzie + Nigel want them to go to the same school so they both got the same opportunities and would be together?
DeletePat is concerned about her own grand-daughters.
ReplyDeleteAs for business plans - stay with what you know ie FOOD - Helen's dairy and Tom's vegetables.
People need to eat, skin care is a luxury, who will manufacture those products, make your own.
Botanicals, I immediately thought of Toby (didn't you Maryellen?) though has he moved onto wine now? We'll find out more when Robin F pays a visit.
Yes, Basia, I quite often think wistfully of Toby! I’m looking forward to his father’s visit because I think Anthony Head looks and sounds super-dishy.
DeleteAs have said, I'm listening to older TA omnibuses.
ReplyDeleteI'm now at Dec. 2010 with Nigel being the Pantomime Dame in the panto, full of LL with Deck The Hall, and saying about Lewis that he hopes he'll be as active when he reaches his age.
Then there's the constant mention of the big family LL open day and party, on Jan 2nd, 2011.
Such a subtle build up to what happens!
I mention this as to how cleverly things were written into previous episodes.
I wonder if the TA scripties are now doing similar with Brian.
Akram should go back to plumbing where he is his own boss and earns properly.
ReplyDeleteAdil had an allotment, where is it?
Akram can potter around there in his free time.
Ian should go back to cooking which is what he is passionate about.
I found the conversation between father and daughter unrealistic.
I wonder if the looming workforce crisis at Bridge Farm caused by Akram’s departure, extra demands made by Helen’s new cows, etc, etc, will compel them to offer a job to George? Will he be in a position to say no, as Tracy did to their offer of extra hours? It would be poetic justice! As for Akram, as Basia says, time to screw his head back on, return to plumbing, apply for an allotment and/or give his Beechwood garden with its wonderful soil, a makeover. He was basically a dilettante at Bridge Farm - that’s not something that could be said of George.
ReplyDeleteThey definitely have a management crisis at Bridge Farm, they sacked Clarrie and now need more workforce which is not forthcoming. Don't Pat and Tony have any more say in all this? The land belongs to them after all, though they don't behave like Brian.
DeletePerhaps Pat needs to go back into the cheeses making area to relieve pressure there for a while, and for Tony to step up and help more with the veg.
DeleteBut then with the addition of ten more Beliards to care for they will still need extra hands to the pump.
And yes, George comes to mind yet again.
I personally think George is better of at Meadow Farm at the moment. He has the trust of Esme and seem to be happy there.
DeleteNever say never though.
Didn’t Pat find the work a bit too demanding when she was roped in to help in the dairy a couple of months or so ago?
DeleteMiriam, I was thinking that Meadow Farm + developing the drone business might take all George’s available hours, and Meadow Farm where he and Esme have similar farming/IT interests and respect each other’s skills, is a more congenial proposition. Unless Bridge Farm is prepared to pay more than Esme and it’s a question of economics. Perhaps he could squeeze in a few hours early school week for Bridge Farm, should the occasion arise.
DeleteYes i believe Pat did find it too tiring, but needs must !
DeleteMaryellen - I’m sorry to hear that your super dishy Anthony Head will not be returning after all as it has been announced that he has died.
ReplyDelete72 is very young.
Indeed it is Mrs P!
DeleteI've just seen that Anthony Head has died. I guess that his upcoming appearance as Robin Fairbrother has already been recorded.
ReplyDeleteI thought the name rang a bell CC oh dear!
DeleteAfter the Archers tonight Add to Playlist will be exploring familiar radio 4 theme tunes.
ReplyDelete👍👏🏻👍
DeleteDid I listen to only half the programme then ?
DeleteWill check again later.
MrsP Barwick Green was in the second half, you can see the list including the Minute Waltz for the Clue which I really like.
DeleteGosh, thanks for the sad news, after reading your posts I’ve now found the details online. It doesn’t say how long he’d been ill, but as CC says, he may have recorded for TA before he caught pneumonia. I hope so.
ReplyDelete(Nice photo at top of article on BBC News page - too nice for Robin Fairbrother?)
,
Can Martyn talk sense to Brian?
ReplyDeleteWell someone has to try, someone who knows nothing about Ruairi, the GBH attack + the ensuing cover up.
it has to be either Martyn or Justin, who Brian hopefully will at least listen to, with an modicum of respect.
Is Zainab the new Mia in Brad’s life? I hope not. In my own alternative Ambridge, the original comes back and reclaims him
ReplyDeleteIt sounded to me as good friendship rather than romance.
DeleteNo and Zainab doesn't date, she told Ben that.
DeleteThat’s something that can easily change!
DeleteI thought it was to do with her faith.
DeleteOh yes, you’re right, Basia. Only dating with marriage firmly in mind is allowed (says Google).
DeleteAt least Brad has found someone in Zainab, he can talk to, feel comfortable with, and with whom he can share his thoughts, and is not family.
DeleteThis has to be good for Brad, a favourite of mine along with his sister Chelsea.
This age group will soon become more prominent, as the more seniors sadly depart, be they characters or actors.
Then there's the much younger group, which includes Henry, Khalil + Keira, all about the same of about 15yrs of age.
DeleteThe two actors who surprise me the most are:-
DeleteCarole Boyd, Lynda, who is now 85yrs
Brian Hewlett, Neil, still sounding great at 87yrs.
The other more senior characters and or actors to think about are:-
Justin, Oliver, Jim, Jill, Bert H. and of course Aunty Chris + Carol T.
Ok, my take on this week's events.
ReplyDeleteIan and Brian acting out of character and Martyn Gibson conveniently turning up on each occasion offering advice.
Zainab counselling Akram and Brad - to me all unconvincing.
Fletcher had been spotted by Carol in her garden, so he may return.
Finally, at the mention of the re-appearance of Robin Fairbrother, Anthony Head exits, weird or what?
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ReplyDeleteI think the evidence for Brian losing the plot (query dementia), irrespective of his ill-judged and dodgy behaviour re Ruairi, is steadily mounting. But he has made remarkable recoveries from various physical mishaps throughout his career, so maybe this health issue will melt away too?
ReplyDeleteI'm pondering on two thoughts.
ReplyDelete1) Brian. Might he be having vision problems? He couldn't make out the schedule on Ed's phone + said he didn't need to make a note on his own. This could be simply that he hadn't got his reading glasses with him, but might it be something else eg cataracts. This could explain him being short-tempted, as frustrated at not seeing things sharply...
2) Jim. Stopping his papers, no longer on the village shop rota after 16yrs (?) but is very "chipper" according to Jazzer, so what's he up to?
My idea is a World Cruise, sailing off onto the High seas and then doing a Johnny, lost at sea somewhere. 😂 ⛴️
I am just speculating, again! 🫣
DeleteIt sounds like Stella is not keen on children, let alone using her womb and ovaries - all very clinically discussed by Pip, as if they were reproductive machines with viable working parts.
ReplyDeleteMmmmm I picked up the same vibe BASIA
DeleteI did too. I checked on google Stella is mid to late 40’s and Pip knocking on as well what’s with all the late babies now! I also saw “Natasha” in a tv drama recognised her voice and the actress who plays her will be 50yrs in July and as her character also in her mid forties so another late mum. Kirsty quite the norm and Amber will be very much the youngster when she delivers her little one
DeleteI also picked up on Stella's response. Trouble ahead, methinks ...
DeleteWe had an inkling some months ago when a holiday was proposed and Stella realised it hadn’t occurred to Pip that Rosie wouldn’t go with them, any more than It had occurred to her that Rosie would. It led to momentary tension between them. Stella seems fonder of her dog.
DeleteThey'd better sort out the children question before they get married.
DeleteI don't want the Harrison and Fallon repeat.
They have the test to go through first.
As I've just said elsewhere, WHEN Pip tests -ve, she'll be more determined than ever to give Rosie a sibling.
DeleteThis will certainly the Pip/Stella relationship.
Not as typed but the gist is there.
DeleteJust realised I've not been checking in for a few days and have missed lots of chat. My thoughts are: 1) very sorry about death of Anthony Head, I remember him from the famous Nescafé advert years ago but never saw the films he was in. Very handsome man.i
ReplyDelete2) Brian is acting ridiculously. Fancy calling the police because Adam had driven off in the Landrover - on farm business. Why is Brian being so spiteful to Adam? He is speaking to him and acting like a school bully. I hope Adam stands his ground. Brian needs medical intervention I think.
3) Pip assumes Stella wants another baby in the house as much as she does. I don't think Stella even likes Rosie much. Totally unreasonable to assume Stella will want to go through à pregnancy just to please Pip and Rosie. As for artificial insemination, surely Helen is the one to consult for advice.
4) George doing well and gaining respect from all he works with. Good for him.
So now must stop playing going up & down on my stairlift and concentrate on important things...like TA!
So glad to hear you are up and running Archerphile 👏🏻😀 I use my neighbours lift all the time, I don’t have any stairs myself. I will now take this opportunity to update you on my hip the one that was recommended to be replaced 12yrs ago 🫢 at the end of April I saw the Dr and he referred me to MSK my appointment was a local one last Thursday. Have agreed to now go ahead and join the queue for first appointment. I have been doing exercises for a while and she said for all that I’d been through as a carer I was doing amazingly well. Even taking into account walking like Quasimodo when I first get up and hobble with my stick! I am ok regarding weight and a plus never to have smoked and drink infrequently. Post op I may have to join George for a week or so as living alone. I have just heard Alton has gone back to one ward only again so that’s 24 beds only now for recovery etc.
DeleteI have bought an Apple Watch with fall and crash detection fingers crossed will not need it but better safe than sorry. Gone on a bit so will stop now!
Oh dear wrong blog that’s AP talking about her new magic chair!!
DeleteHow disappointed I am that the only reason Jim has cancelled his papers, is that he's now got an E-reader.
ReplyDeleteHow I wanted something more exciting for him..😵
That had me scratching my head Miriam. Swapping the paper for an e reader I can understand but not giving up the shop as well which will make him more isolated.
DeleteLoss of confidence and/or lack of energy on Jim’s part, maybe?
Delete(The actor giving up?)
ME. Thinking about the actor retiring, was why I thought of him going off a long cruise, and to silently sail off into the sunset.
DeleteIt was a good idea at the time! 🙀
Miriam, it would be a splendid way for Jim to leave Ambridge, rather like Kathy Perks who also followed her dream.
DeleteSPOILER ALERT!
ReplyDeleteThis is the month that Keira Grundy finds her voice! Will we discover why she went off George (though Amber still helps her with her homework)?
I hope so! Plus the same PC shows up again...🤔
DeleteI hope that doesn’t mean Brian is going to bring in the police over that incident when Adam ‘borrowed’ funds from the farm without prior consultation. What other crimes could Brian dream up for Adam?
DeleteIt might be the other way round...🤣
DeleteAdam did say he had something up his sleeve, maybe he is going to dob Brian in over the George situation.
DeleteMuch as I would like to see justice done over Ruairi’s murderous attack on George and Brian’s complicity, I’m not sure how this would help George now he has put it all behind him, - successfully it seems - and has struck up a friendship with Ruairi that has its roots in their early childhood.
DeleteIt sounds that looking after elderly parents is done now. Bert's moved in with Clive who will find him a lady friend, not Carol then.
ReplyDeleteAdam contacted a lawyer and said he could have a claim against Brian on the grounds of his unsound mind.
ReplyDeleteAs for complicity, all those who know are perverting the course of justice, including George himself.
That's in the face of the law, as for the law of human nature, totally irrational, we shall have to wait and see the outcome. I don't believe that this affair will be buried as it was done with Nic's transgression.
Miriam, you got your wish, Jim's off on his travels.
ReplyDeleteThe Orient Express would have been more fitting than Eurostar! 🤣
DeleteEurostar will take him to Paris where he can board the iconic train.
DeleteOh well done Miriam, for predicting Jim’s unheralded departure from Ambridge en route for the unknown! That’s the third character to do that way.
ReplyDeleteAt least it's not the other way round, Betty Tucker character apparently wanted to move to the antipodes in real life, so they killed her off.
DeleteWho lives in Kathy's cottage now I wonder.
I bet Jim will have a wonderful time exploring all the classical Greek and Roman sites.
DeleteOoh er Mrs now what! Brian sounded like Trump when declaring his mental health 100% 🤭 🤣
ReplyDeleteWhat happened to Jim’s friendship with Christine? They used to do the crossword together before she went to The Laurels. I don’t remember him mentioning her subsequently and she wasn’t referred to in connection with his odd little leaving do. I’ve wondered this several times!
ReplyDeleteIndeed maryellen, there are many loose connections on The Archers circuit board.
DeleteNot only loose connections, but a lot of broken ones as well.
DeleteIndeed Miriam, a soldering iron is needed to get it working as a whole again.
DeleteFor “soldering iron” read “a good editor” to replace the mediocre one we’ve go now.
DeleteWhat I don't like is that each weeks episodes are nearly always done by different sw's. Some sw's do a two week stint and some are responsible for a particular story line but have to give this to other writers to write various episodes
DeleteI just feel that a writer should do a 4 week block of scripts - be they good or bad.
ARCHERPHILE have you seen my June 10th at 4.14pm? 🫢
ReplyDeleteI certainly did Lady R - and read your longer post on the other blog. Thank you!
DeleteKate certainly said the best line in TA for a long time to Brian, something like:-
ReplyDeleteYou think you've won but is it worth it?
So true.
I hope it wasn't Stella's dog.
ReplyDeleteOoh now that is likely Janice 🤔
DeleteWhat a harrowing episode 😢
ReplyDeleteHarrowing but so well written and acted. Let's hope any listener with a dog will take notice next time they are out in the country. I wondered if it could be Markie's dog that menaced Kenton in the pub carpark, hopefully not the dog of someone we know in the village though.
ReplyDeleteAnd what a great put down of Brian from David. Hope the PC heard that too.
We’ve had this message before but this time clearly intended to in with the escalating anti-Brian sentiment. I can’t say I’m sorry for him. Maybe I could add some more couplets to my Horrible Brian poem to cover his latest awfulnesses.
DeleteShould be to TIE in etc.
DeleteI too wondered whether it could have been one of Markie’s attack dogs.
DeleteI've been trying to think of why Markie's dog/s would be sent to attack David's sheep. Then I remembered George helped with the shearing of the herd, is thus a connection?
DeleteThe other thing is wouldn't Markie's dogs have attacked at night under the cover of darkness...
DeleteThat was a load of old cobblers. It is the responsibility of the leaseholder to put up any signs, so it was David who was at fault and he was totally out of order rounding on Brian when it was his own negligence.
ReplyDeleteDavid accusing Brian of being a bad farmer was a complete non sequitur, obviously there to further the plot line about Brian’s declining capacity. I think the potentially irrecoverable breakdown of the Brookfield/Home Farm work and family relationship will overshadow the canine whodunnit.
DeleteThe canine attack on the sheep has to be resolved, even if it is just to show the consequences of the new law relating to this..
DeleteMy thought only!
Fair enough! So I think it could all be summed up in a couple of sentences from PC Nicola Trueman: The dog has been DNA-identified from outside the area and is now detained in police kennels at the offender’s cost. The offender faces a fine of an unlimited amount.
DeleteSorted!
To me it was only about the fact that the police now have new powers to be able to collect forensic + DNA samples for the first time., to help prove a case if a suspected dog or similar is found. This only came into place when the new law about attacks on livestock, came into force on March 18th this year.
DeleteTA have done well to include this so soon..
The new changes can easily found on Google and other search engines.
Just thought this might be of interest to some, as to this episode was as it was, and why.
I was only giving my opinion...🤷♀️
I'm like Ed - Can't do right for doing wrong. 😃
DeleteI didn't know a new law had been put in place, but am glad it has. My brother has experienced similar, but not as bad, in the past. That episode brought back quite a few memories. My dad had a cow chased over the cliff once, and because a footpath ran through the cliff fields it became impossible to keep animals in them. It was made worse by the fact that we are in a tourist area and visitors from town had no idea how their dogs would behave when left to run free.
DeleteAs I said before, in France dogs must be kept on a lead during the breeding season, perhaps it's not enough, but at least the young animals are protected and the dogs and their owners are not attacked by the protective mothers.
DeleteI enjoyed hearing George’s happy laughter this evening after quoting the famous catchphrase from Only Fools and Horses. He’s come quite a way!
ReplyDeleteGet over it, Brad - like Mia had to, when you abruptly terminated your relationship with her.
ReplyDeleteI was impressed by Kate's chat with Brad, sympathetic but helpful. And generally, with her renewed work ethic. She is certainly impressing Oliver. What has happened? Is it the effect of becoming a grandmother that has made the difference? I quite liked her last night, something I never thought to say! It's a welcome change
ReplyDeleteHello, I'm Perdita and I'm sorry but I play Kate - was how she introduced herself on tour, aware of people's attitude towards her. Perhaps that's why they've given her a new dimension. She was also good with Brian.
DeleteTalking of whom he 'disowned' Adam as not his son, but then barged in to see Xander whom he still calls his grandson. Also, chasing Oliver away from Miranda's garden! We found out that she still has a lot of affection for him, but he'll have to change his approach.
Kate’s ‘good side’ has always been there, and the scriptwriters have gradually begun to show it, despite those listeners (not here!) who enjoyed seeing and misinterpreted the worst in her.
ReplyDeleteMissing you, MrsP and Lady R - hope you’re both okay and not devastated by the heat.
ReplyDeleteThanks ME.
ReplyDeleteNo problems with the heat, managing well enough, but have had visitors who return to London this morning. Have managed to listen in but no time to comment as I’ve been out and about with friends.
Back to normal later today.
I enjoyed the reappearance of Amber's parents.
ReplyDeleteThis visit to my mind, is sowing the seeds for future story-lines.
Amber's mother seems to have planted some seeds in Amber's mind, giving her food for thought about the reality of life with a child.
DeleteKeira is certainly making up for all those years of total silence|
ReplyDelete🫢🤣🫢🤣
DeleteAccording to Neil, Keira could talk for England and even Susan can’t get a word in! I’m delighted she’s joining the succession of characters in the feisty young male slot: like Pip, Emma, Mia and Zainab. They don’t always get it right but they are basically well-meanings and always invigorating to listen to. Welcome to Keira, the new Mia!
DeleteOh dear, should read FEmale slot of course!
DeleteReading backwards have just seen your kind comment in asking after me! I am finding the heat hard to take (as always) and it is about to get worse 😱 however onwards and upwards. Been busy with much entertainment etc at Mr R’s Care Home and coping with myself this end too - poor old dear that I will be for a while until the black and decker job gets done 🪚🔨 🪚🔨 - eventually!
ReplyDeleteRe. the heat my daughter said she read that if you fill a hot water bottle a third full of water and then put it in the freezer you have a nice icy cold water bottle to keep your bed cool. Don't fill it full though or it will split! Alternatively you can half fill a plastic milk bottle.
Delete😆 It's only just hit me what the black and decker job is. I was imagining you putting up shelves or something!
DeleteThe black and decker job has mystified me.
DeleteAh ha !
DeleteAll has been revealed…. Very clever ….. thank you Lady R.
Oh Janice me doing DIY now that would be a sight to behold 🤭😂🤭😱
DeleteAn idle thought- with his grandfathers called Will and Bill, what are the chances that George and Amber’s baby will be named William if a boy? (I think we can forget ‘Brad’.)
ReplyDeleteI'd like Joseph, a new but very different Joe Grundy.
DeleteWe've got tickets for the Badminton RHS Flower Show on the Wednesday, maybe we'll see Tony and Pat there!
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to seeing the Archers 75th anniversary garden.
Oh, yes CC! Please can we have a report on the garden?
DeleteSo, Badminton spreads the RHS Garden Show even further.
DeleteIf I was still living in Stroud I would have gone, but even not that far away I won’t on this occasion.
I do hope you have a lovely day CC.
Thank you MrsP.
DeleteHelen's done it again and I'm reaching a Keira saturation point.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely on both counts.
DeleteIt seems to be.okay with Tony for Tom to investigate developing production on his side of the business without mentioning it, so why not Helen? Are the scriptwriters pandering to listeners for whom she can do nothing right!? Or is David bitter about the loss of his Anguses and blames her though she was only the messenger?. He seemed reconciled when showing David his train layout with the.little model Angus Pat gave him - a neat idea, I thought, it married up both his hobbies past and present.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteSorry, first David should read Tony.
DeleteThe way I see it. Helen and Tom now run the farm business.
ReplyDeleteAfter the audit Helen informed Tony that his Anguses were no longer viable and he accepted, however, he only found out about the auction from the press, a technicality, but they are a family and Pat "forgot" to tell him either, he moved on.
On the way to buy more Montbeliards Helen and Tom agreed on the purchase number, but Helen went ahead and bought the lot because it was a good deal, Tom accepted.
She is aware of Tom's plans for a new polytunnel, Tony may be not, but does it matter?
With the arrival of new cows Helen wants to expand the cheese business, so asked a rep for a quote for a new milking parlour. No one was aware of his visit and she was annoyed that Tom asked him questions. Why?
I just don't want them to fall out like the Aldriges.
What "annoyed" me was Helen saying to Susan that she wanted it (the new parlour) up and running by autumn.
DeleteIt was so presumptive.
Typical of most business plans in the early stages when a prospective timescale is needed
DeleteShe could have got the info. she needed to put to the others re types + finance etc. from the internet, to the be discussed before bringing in a rep.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteAll it'll need is Reuben Sparrow's new and upcoming organic dairy to poach some of Helen's orders and customers.
DeleteThings might then be very different as to the dairy's income and profitability.
I think that's why Helen needs the extra oomph - to survive the competition, as well as the business owner's natural inclination to expand.
DeleteYet one of the business owners ie Tony said something about being "railroaded".
DeleteDon't forget they're probably still monthly mortgage payments to be met, as it was only in 2009 that Pat + Tony bought Bridge Farm.
That's,me finished on the subject and what will be, will be!
OK, so that's one pair of siblings sorted out, vying for their parents' attention.
ReplyDeleteNow the other one are still competing against each other and set to see which one will win, forgetting the common cause of their farm.
Yes, Helen’s business proposal complete with quote and timescale has inspired Tom to produce his own proposal, both for consideration by the Bridge Farm directors. I don’t see why it necessarily has to be an either/or decision except for the scriptwriters’ penchant for confrontational diorama, so I’m hoping for a compromise! Either way, I think Helen is blameless.
ReplyDeleteDrama
DeleteI think that Helen and Tom deserve each other, neither of them have got very good teamwork and diplomacy skills.
DeleteHelen is an Aries, neither teamwork or diplomacy are part of an Aries DNA.
DeleteAt getting close to fifty, with development of some insight she might have learned some lessons about her personality and tried to modify her natural traits of leadership and boldness in fearless decision making.
But she hasn’t !
I often wonder if the TA team do take into consideration the personality traits of the astrological signs that are appointed by the birth date of individual characters.
As an Aries with a serious interest in astrology I am constantly aware of the characteristics of Helen in particular, and dislike her much of the time for her apparent blindness to, and lack of understanding of her own personality traits.
But then again, that too is an Aries trait.
Henry, born 2 January, is a Capricorn, grounded, ambitious.and highly disciplined. That sounds as if it could.turn out to be right. I’m cusp born which is most complex.
DeleteWhat about Jack, as he's already sounding that he might become a tearaway and troublesome.
DeleteI think that we will have to agree to differ when it comes to astrology MrsP.
DeleteJack, born 21 May, on the cusp between Taurus and Gemini, but considered a Gemini, bright, changeable and enquiring. Need to talk to someone knowledgeable like Mrs P with time of birth to determine whether he is a true Gemini (Google. says).
DeleteThat’s accepted Cheshire Cheese.
DeleteWe all have our individual points of view.
Maryellen - I am seriously interested in astrology but I am not able to read or determine charts.
Besides there is far more to an accurate chart than the time- and indeed place - of birth, such as what other signs might be in ascendancy or opposition, amongst many other things.
As well of course the experiences of family dynamics and upbringing.
I should add that I am particularly interested in Helen since being an Aries myself I recognise the difficult aspects of her personality because I share them.
DeleteI have learnt, through my interest and study of astrology- which in turn led me to psychology- to understand the impact in interactions with others how to, and when to, modify such strong instincts when required and to use them effectively on other occasions.
My strong leadership instincts and skills have put me in positions of power on many occasions, but I’ve also schooled myself in diplomacy and team building to be effective in communicating within committees when required. Had I not, I would have overruled others unfairly and not been the effective chair on many a committee, or in situations similar to that current at Bridge Farm.
I perhaps shouldn't say this as you are an Aries Mrs P but when younger I was surrounded by Aries people, including mother, gran, and churchwarden (who ran the children's group) and despite being a Leo who shouldn't by nature have been squashable I was indeed on many an occasion squashed!
DeleteThis conversation has made me wonder if that is why I instinctively don't like Helen, although I didn't know her star sign.
I feel sorry for Tom.
DeleteFair point Janice, and I sympathise.
DeleteBoth my parents were Scorpios and my younger sister another Aries.
She lied, manipulated and bullied me and our parents let her get away with it. By the time she was five and I eight she was bigger than me and constantly beat me up.
I really suffered at her hands.
I’ve spent a lot of my life avoiding Scorpios but eventually encountered a woman who decided to teach me how to like and cope with the sign.
She like me was interested in astrology and more experienced than me.
I must check out Tom !
Tom
Delete25 th February
PISCES
Hmmm !
No wonder he and Helen clash so much.
To add to this astrological discussion; I looked some characters up at random.
DeleteI'm an archer, Brian a scorpio, Tom as said pisces - which are unfavorable.
Favorable for me are libra, which is true in real life.
Jill and Kate are both Libra.
Hmmm so Brian’s a Scorpio is he.
DeleteHmmm again.
Brian's 20 Nov, so on the cusp, David - Virgo, Ruth - Gemini and George - Aries.
DeleteThat's interesting. So George could have the drive to achieve things, and with Amber to teach him teamwork , and she has already begun that with their social media for the show, he could do well. Do we know what Amber is? David I could believe as a Virgo, but I can't visualise Ruth as a Gemini, although they are supposed to be good at communication and maybe that comes through in her originally looking after Rhuari's interests and now acting as intermediary between Adam and Brian.. Tim Bentinck in real life is apparently Gemini and Felicity Finch is Pisces. I wonder if Mrs P is right and the TA team deliberately make use of their astrological traits. Myself I think we are mainly formed by genes and upbringing. There was a study done showing that famous people tended to be Aquarians but it could apparently be connected with climate and amount of sunlight or darkness in January/February. Don't know why.
DeleteOK, some more: Lilian - cancer, Lynda - gemini, Susan - libra, Tracy - leo/cancer, Pat - capricorn. Doesn't mean much, just know that taurus/pisces are unfavourable to me.
DeleteI did say that ‘ I wondered if ‘ the TA team considered, not that they actually did so.
DeleteA slight correction Janice.
( not picking a fight )
No wonder I liked Mia - we share a birthday on the Capricorn/Aquarius cusp.
DeleteWhy was Kirsty helping Helen decorate, she shouldn't be doing anything strenuous.
ReplyDeleteKirsty probably volunteered but Helen should have said No.
DeleteShe wants the Henry + Jack sharing a bedroom sorted ASAP so what Helen wants, Helen gets.
Surely Tony could spare some time away from his model railway and his new anguses, to help instead.
,More a case of what Henry and Jack want, Henry and Jack get!
DeleteI felt very sad for Tony, having to take comfort from his model railway and a few plastic cows while Helen lords it over Bridge Farm. It is such a shame that he has been reduced to almost à non-entity at the farm and had his beloved cows taken away from him. I wonder what Peggy would have thought?
ReplyDeleteShe left him out of her will and then changed her mind once he was attacked by the bull.
DeleteThere's the opinionated Keira everywhere and now Ed is prepared delegate to her the presentation at the show. His prize texels are his pride and joy and I'm astounded that he didn't stand his ground with Brian. Or will it be an opportunity for Keira to score top marks.
No need to feel sorry for Tony. The auditor’s verdict was a blessing in disguise for him. It was inevitable the Anguses, his hobby herd, would go - Johnny is not coming back (when did anyone there last mention him?) and Tony is ageing, but making the painful decision now gives him more time to enjoy his beloved.railway layout, in which Pat’s model cows make a proud appearance. His pleasure in them was evident when he showed one to David. I’m wondering if TA’s current exploration of tensions between elderly parents and their offspring extends to Tony trying to retain his grip.
ReplyDeleteIt wasn't a hobby herd, but a part of the farm, supplying organic beef. It was just that this beef wasn't showing much profit, that Helen said it had to go as it was cheaper to buy in inferior meat to sell in the shop.
DeleteThe price of Angus beef is always at a premium, due to it's quality and taste and
DeleteThe goats were originally Pat’s hobby herd and the beef cattle were Tony’s. They contributed to the farm’s income.
DeleteWhat is going on with Brian? Not dementia so is it going to be a breakdown? It’s odd that Kiera sounds like the young teenager she is but the actor is 25yrs and using her own voice (she was on the BBC podcast last Saturday along with “ Ed”) as always a good show ⭐️
ReplyDeleteI’ve been thinking that Brian is in the throes of a breakdown for weeks, and so far nothing that has happened has changed my mind.
ReplyDeleteFor some, keeping a secret has devastating consequences.
Ruari has salved his conscience by confessing to George, regardless of George taking that seriously, but Brian is carrying his load alone.
Brian mentioned his eyesight having got worse to Ed, so that would be an additional stress. It could be something easily fixable like cataracts, and if he had told Alice or Kate I expect they would have encouraged him to have an optician's appointment.
ReplyDeleteI took it that he was using his eyesight purely as an excuse for his mental failings in dealing with paperwork etc.
DeleteLosing his grip like this would add to his stress as you say, Janice.
Also Brian is out of touch with the admin side of things, Stella did it very effectively when she was working for him then Adam took over. Things change so quickly that it takes a lot of keeping up with.
DeleteI have a friend who's daughter lives in Canada and makes her living from advising farmers on the admin side of the job. There are some very big farms out there and she knows about all things like rules and regulations and what subsidies are available etc.
One farm she advises is run by two brothers who are somewhat rough and ready and, up until recently, she had only ever had dealings with one of them. On one visit the other brother was there but didn't say a word to her so, when they were alone, she asked the usual one why he was there. Back came the reply that he just wanted to see the woman who got shit done.
I bet Adam has done the orders, but Brian hasn't found them on the system as he doesn't seem up-to-date with it. Remember he paid an invoice which Adam had already done, not that long ago.
DeleteI still think that there is something causing pressure on part of his brain and an optic nerve, (the eyesight).
DeleteNot sure what but an aneurism or a blood clot both which would be curable if found!!
I know, a weird thought..😵💫
I wonder if Charles Collingwood is enjoying playing the part of Brian as he disintegrates? It must be quite fun being so rude to everyone!
DeleteAnd I wonder if even he knows that fate that will befall him? I once read that he wanted to go on playing Brian 'forever' but maybe he will shortly be joining 'Shula' at home in Hampshire.
I think Brian will be around for quite awhile yet, in some form or another.
DeleteA bit of trivia in case some like me, enjoy such unimportant things, as opposed to current S/L's
ReplyDeleteI've just found out that Bill Gordon + Natasha Archer, are husband + wife in real life. Hubbie is also welsh though sounds more Brum.
Yes, I knew that, like Brian and Shula, Justin and Miranda, Ruth and Matt.
DeleteHis name is Matthew Gravelle and I do like his gravelly voice, he's even more of a rough diamond than Vince.
A clear class difference between Amber's parents, so why is her mother so against George, or is it because of it. As Amber says they may not even be aware that they are slighting him, but she can see through them, while he's all out to please.
Reply to CC on the Canadian Farmers.......Brilliant! 😄
DeleteOh - so nice to see you are still with us Burnham Beeches.
DeleteEd won't show his texels because Brian says no and Keira won't step in - they'll have to think of some other solution.
ReplyDeleteLet’s hope Keira can be persuaded to change her mind and boost her self belief.
DeleteHow sad Brian has quashed Ed's chance at the show with his texels.
DeleteEd must also have had someone else to step in to drive the trailer and help Keira- Eddie?
Did think of George, but he'd be too busy with the media side of things and also still can't drive.
Typical of Brian to say he'll be flexible and then refuse to be flexible.
DeleteCan’t remember who said it, but correct IMO, Ambers father is a replacement for Matt Crawford.
ReplyDeleteOut to have his way with every trick in the book.
Blatantly squashing George with his own agenda and eventually manoeuvring George around to his argument.
I have accepted that as the older generation of actors fades away new blood is required in Ambridge, and so far I have accepted those new characters, but for a reason I cannot myself understand, I have not taken to Ambers parents at all, right from the beginning, and I really resent them becoming part of TA.
And now to cap it all, we are told they are from Lewisham.
The Borough of Lewisham, where I grew up ( as did the awful Rachel Reeves ) and a place that i will forever disdain.
Apologies for my rant.
Bill reminds me more of Vince, not Matt.
DeleteMatt was extremely scheming + devious at the expense of others, remember Christine losing her life savings,which doesn't sound like Bill at all.
I did love Tiger though!
I meant in the way of scheming and manipulating Miriam.
DeleteNot that he is dishonest.