25/12/2017

It's Christmas day and Oliver's lonely morning at Grey Gables is interrupted by Nic and Joe. Oliver complains bitterly that he would have accepted their invitation to Christmas at Grange Farm if that was where he wanted to be. But as Joe points out, this isn't about him - how could Joe enjoy Christmas, possibly Joe's last, knowing that Oliver was alone.

It's not long before Oliver ends up having a terrific time drinking tumble tussock cider and playing twister. He wonders what Caroline would make of it. The Grundys agree she'd be glad to see him having fun.

At Bridge Farm Helen and Pat leave detailed instructions on how to cook Christmas dinner. Tony and Johnny manage very well, although they use every pan and both ovens. Tony is in no mood to tolerate Peggy's helpful advice that they should've washed up as they went along. Just before Pat and Helen return disaster strikes. They've forgotten the stuffing! Tony refuses to ask Jennifer if she has over catered. He doesn't want to hear anything more about Brian's businessman of the year award. In the end Clarrie saves Bridge Farm Christmas when Johnny asks for her leftovers. Tony's proud of what they achieved. Brian certainly couldn't have cooked Christmas dinner for nine people.