19/07/2021

Helen’s shaken by unwelcome shopper and neighbour Kyle, as he makes sarcastic comments about the produce and prices. As she discloses the encounter to Lee, she feels disappointed in herself that she let Kyle walk all over her; he’s determined to keep badmouthing her on the group chat. Lee declares he’ll have it out with him but Helen stops him; she should do it. Later in the Bull Helen’s struggling with tricky Kyle, and Lee tries to step in. His efforts are fruitless as Kyle twists his comments to make Lee look like the bad guy and himself the victim of intimidation and threats. Helen feels defeated by Kyle.

The atmosphere is cordial between Adam and Brian. Adam shares he has a job prospect he has a good feeling about. They both agree they won’t tell Ian or Jennifer anything yet until things are more settled.

Alice makes a shock return. Brian demands to know what’s going on – she should be in re-hab. Alice declares she’s quit. She can’t believe Brian dumped her there, and she’s not going back. Brian snaps, but more measured Adam attempts gently to reason with Alice. He tries to tease out her issues but she’s adamant; there was no trust and everyone expected the worst of her. She’ll manage on her own. People will always see her as a drunk, even if she kicks the habit. She’s come for her stuff – she needs to leave Ambridge for good.