The Archers

Tom gives Tony copious instructions about what needs doing while he and Natasha are away in Scotland on Peggy’s family holiday. At the Dower House Jakob is packing the people carriers with luggage, before Lilian heads to Bridge Farm, where she finds Tony complaining about Tom’s excessive notes. If Tom’s so worried about letting go, Lilian suggests, then he should stay and let Tony go to Scotland instead. As Peggy’s only son Tony should be going anyway, as specified in Peggy’s will. Tony isn’t sure, but Lilian insists she wants to spend some quality time with Tony while they still have the chance. To Tom’s horror Tony agrees to go, explaining it’s not just for Lilian, it’s what Peggy wanted. Tom and Natasha quickly realise this means one of them will have to stay. Tom thinks it should be Natasha, but she points out she’s organised everything to cover her absence, whereas Tom hasn’t really sorted his side out – and she is not missing out on this holiday! Later, Tony apologises to Tom, before explaining what Tom needs to do for him with the Anguses tomorrow. When Tom complains he won’t have time Tony says then they’ll have to sort things out today. Back at the Dower House Jakob’s frustrated by the delay - and Justin’s sulking. Lilian phones Tony, who tells them he’ll be another hour. If she wants him to come then they’ll just have to wait. Jakob is all for going without Tony, but Lilian takes an executive decision to delay their departure until tomorrow.

Phoebe Aldridge, an expectant mother, shares her journey navigating pregnancy and family dynamics while planning a beaver release. Amber Gordon, her partner's fiancée, talks about family acceptance amid scrutiny and the pressures of being tech-savvy. Local contractor Rex Fairbrother discusses logistics for the beaver release, but delays arise due to unforeseen reinforcement needs. Family tensions flare during a dinner as Phoebe confronts Bill about their mother's refusal to accept Amber, highlighting intergenerational conflicts over life choices and expectations.

In this engaging conversation, Kate, Amber's caring mother, expresses her concern over family arrangements and Amber's wellbeing while bubbling with enthusiasm about a beaver release project. The duo discusses holiday plans, and Rex shares fascinating details about the beaver enclosure's design and security measures. Tension rises when Amber confronts Rex about a surprise meeting with her father, leading to an emotional exploration of family dynamics and reconciliation attempts. Expect heartfelt moments mixed with light-hearted café chatter!

Tensions rise as George seeks approval for his relationship with Amber from her parents, hoping to mend family ties. Joy and Pip chat about the village shop's challenges and delivery dynamics, while rumors swirl about a locksmith's secret Christmas plan. Meanwhile, the vicar's decision to end the church shop tenancy leaves Joy and her team scrambling for alternatives. Light-hearted teasing about bread choices adds a pinch of humor to the mix, making for a blend of drama and community spirit.

Joy tries her best to talk Susan out of resigning from the Shop, eventually persuading Susan to talk to George before making a final decision. Susan then finds George with Amber on the Green and tells him about her decision to resign. George insists she mustn’t resign. He really appreciates her willingness to sacrifice something she loves for his sake, though. He then brings up her and Neil shopping him to the police, plus the engagement ring Susan gave Amber before Neil insisted on taking it back. George says he’s okay with Susan, but he still sees Neil as the enemy. Lilian tells Joy that Phoebe’s arriving from Scotland today and Kate is beyond excited, though Lilian hates the idea of being called a great-great-aunt. Joy then receives a text from Susan, wanting to meet later. When Susan turns up at The Bull Joy is delighted to hear she won’t be resigning after all and has at least partially reconnected with George. George takes Amber to a cocktail bar, insists on paying, but won’t tell her how he got the money. He then proposes to her again, this time with a ring of his own. Amber is awkward and George suspects something’s not right, supposing it’s to do with her parents’ disapproval. Amber agrees that’s the reason she’s been upset, but also thinks they shouldn’t rush into organising the wedding straight away. George suggests meeting her parents to try and get them to change their minds about him. Amber wants more time to think about it, though.

George and Will navigate the intricacies of pregnancy preparations, discussing special needs for Phoebe. They tackle domestic life challenges, from chores to the impact of unemployment on family dynamics. As plans for a family holiday unfold, tensions rise over driving logistics. Meanwhile, Will considers a new job opportunity outside their village. Personal dramas unfold during family dinners, including financial support offers and worries over relationships. It’s a compelling mix of hope, stress, and family bonds.

Ruth's suspicions rise as she overhears Leonard on the phone, leading her to question what he might be hiding. Meanwhile, Alan delivers troubling news about the Village Shop's future, fueled by confusion over opening times and online posts. Tensions escalate when Susan resigns from the shop committee, upset over her grandson's treatment. The town reflects on Remembrance Sunday while grappling with changes that could reshape their community. Secrets, principles, and community decisions collide in this compelling discussion.

In this engaging discussion, longtime shopkeeper Susan Carter expresses her frustrations over volunteer conflicts while supporting her neighbor, local farmer Esme Mulligan, who is struggling after a recent loss. Esme candidly shares her grief and the daunting task of running Meadow Farm. Meanwhile, Susan sorts through committee politics, offering an ultimatum for George's future. With husband Neil by her side, the couple vows to help Esme navigate her challenges, illustrating the power of community and resilience.

In this heartwarming segment, Esme Mulligan, a longtime Ambridge resident, opens up about her emotional journey following her father's death. She shares a touching eulogy that highlights their life on Meadow Farm, symbolizing love and safety. The day is full of unexpected twists, including an amusing bakery delivery that interrupts her tribute. David steps in to support Esme as she navigates her grief and the challenges of the funeral, reflecting on her fears of not honoring her father's memory properly.

Tom and Helen wonder if Mick will help out with cover at Bridge Farm. After some initial hesitation, and having established he doesn’t need farming expertise, Mick says he’ll give it a try. What are neighbours for? Once in the packhouse Mick finds it all a bit daunting. It’s draughty, and there’s a lot of veg boxes to shift. However, he does a good job and Tom gives Helen a glowing report. When Tom offers Mick the cash for today, Mick refuses. He’s sorry but this work isn’t for him. Having assured him there are no hard feelings Tom gives Helen the bad news. They’re back to square one.Carly finishes work early, and Chris invites her over to watch fireworks in the garden with Martha. Carly arrives with a gift for Martha. They’re both happy their friendship isn’t proving awkward – they agree what they had was a long time ago. There’s a moment, and Chris apologises for flirting. Carly’s cool with it. They’re enjoying the fireworks with Martha when the wind catches the homemade firework stand and it topples, sending firework sparks shooting in their direction. Carly jumps in front of Martha and no-one is harmed. Afterwards they have a debrief, Chris having taken Martha back to Alice. Chris feels a fool and like a rotten dad, but Carly assures him he’s the opposite. There’s enough to fret about in life without worrying about something that didn’t happen. They share some wine and Chris thanks her for her quick thinking. The time is right for a kiss.