02/07/2024

Justin is up early, telling Lilian he’s off to back-to-back meetings but then turns up at Alice’s door. He tells her they’ve found someone to fill in for her at the Stables in her absence. He says she must be aware that a return to work might not be possible if she’s jailed. He wonders whether it might be better for her to consider resigning, as they have a new manager – Carlotta – and all he wants is for the Stables to get back on track. But Alice says she’s not going to resign. She’s ashamed and embarrassed but she needs to hold on to things that can bring her back to normal life. He states she has used up her annual leave for the year and she’ll be on statutory sick pay from now on. Later at the Stables he tells Lilian he has spoken to Alice. She is furious and wanted to visit Alice as well. But Justin says there’s very little anyone can do for her at the moment.

Ed and Emma bring George along on their latest tree surgery job – it’s near Bartleby’s new home. Emma insists it’s her turn to do the aerial work, in the biggest tree they’ve worked on to date – 10 metres. Emma makes a start on cutting the smaller branches and she’s so high up she can see Bartleby’s paddock and George giving him a hug. She has a great time up in the tree – delighted that she and Ed are working for themselves. George is happy with Bartleby’s new home but gets upset when Emma enthuses about the future. He covers by saying he’s thinking about Granddad Joe.