09/05/2022

Stella puts her foot in it with Jim when he asks her about the slurry agreement with Brookfield. She casually brushes aside his curiosity, confirming a deal’s been done and that there’s been some sniping and moaning from ill-informed villagers. Jim tells her he’s one of the moaners. And he’s not ill-informed. As Stella tries to explain, Jim suggests she might convene a meeting in the village hall if she wants to defend her position. Later Stella apologises for being disparaging, but doesn’t want to be bullied into calling a meeting about the slurry. She’d found Jim rude and dismissive. Alistair acknowledges his father can be a little like that. As the disagreement escalates Alistair has to forge a peace. As Stella finally manages a reasoned explanation regarding the slurry movement, Jim has to admit it seems the scheme will be well managed. He’s happy to take it to parish council.
Stella hears the persistent barking of a greyhound as they talk. Alistair explains it’s been abandoned. Stella’s keen to make its acquaintance.
Chelsea wants to know the truth about her mum’s financial situation as Tracy rehearses an interview for a table clearing role at Lower Loxley. Reluctantly Tracy reveals more than she’d like about their troubles. Chelsea pledges her support. She’ll sell some stuff to help out. Tracy’s touched, but says it shouldn’t be Chelsea’s worry. Chelsea assures her she’s there all the way. Later Tracy has more bad news. Gary’s got a job and is moving out, so they’ll lose his share of the rent.