04/11/2025

Tom and Helen worry over whether to employ George. Alice interrupts them with a question about the Scotland trip. Chris has agreed to have Martha, so Alice is now looking forward to joining the party. She confirms with Tom his offer to drive one of the vehicles. Alice detects their quiet mood and knows something’s up. Helen tells her they’re struggling to find cover on the farm, and Tom admits they’re considering George. Alice reassures them – she honestly doesn’t mind, if they think George is the best person for the job. Helen’s relieved; they don’t want Alice upset. Alice assures them she’s fine, though others might not be quite so sanguine about it. Helen’s not convinced, telling Tom they’ll have to think again. Tom spots Mick and has an idea.

Apprehensive George turns up for his first day at the shop, admitting how nervous he is. Susan tells Alan she’s shaking like a leaf, though he reassures her it doesn’t show. George prepares to serve his first customer, Mick. However, Mick refuses to buy from him. Susan urges him to treat George with the same respect as the other volunteers, but Mick declares he doesn’t respect George, and he leaves. George doesn’t want the shop to lose customers on his account. Susan asserts he’ll be a valuable addition to the team, offering him some shifts. George is grateful to Susan for sticking up for him. Susan assures him it wasn’t special treatment. Alan praises Susan’s handling of the situation. Susan just hopes George will forgive them.