00:00
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00:26
You're listening to The Archers Omnibus from BBC Radio 4.
00:48
That should do it, little and often. I hope you're not getting obsessed with this lawn, Akram. Not at all. You do spend a lot of time on it. Don't you think, Khalil?
00:58
What?
00:58
Dad. He's always thinking about the lawn, isn't he?
01:01
Is he?
01:02
Yeah, going on and on about dimples.
01:05
Have you seen the dimples?
01:06
No. It's perfectly smooth. Don't worry.
01:10
Have you finished the weeding, Khalil? You've missed a whole section there.
01:13
Oh, right. I'll do it later.
01:16
Well, I'm heading up to the allotment now, so why don't you come with me? Help me decide what we're entering for the flower and produce, Sam.
01:23
You are, Dave.
01:25
Yes, because he'll enter the lot if you don't stop him.
01:28
The garlic is looking wonderful.
01:30
We're definitely entering that. You've done brilliantly with it. You might actually win a rosette this time, if we're lucky.
01:37
What about the gooseberries?
01:38
Certainly the gooseberries. You enjoyed the gooseberries last night, didn't you, Khalil? Me? Yeah, it was all right.
01:46
You seemed a bit tired this morning, love. Didn't you sleep well?
01:48
I don't know.
01:50
Still worrying about Monty? A bit.
01:53
I'm afraid there's nothing any of us can do. It's up to the police now.
01:56
I know that, Mum.
01:58
We just have to support Linda and Robert.
02:00
And David and Ruth, of course.
02:03
They're poor sheep. Dreadful situation. But if you want to talk about it, clear?
02:07
Hey!
02:08
Kira! Hey! Good timing. Hey!
02:10
Ram, Azra. Morning.
02:12
You can come to the allotment with us too, if you like here.
02:14
Hey.
02:15
No, we're going to be gaming, aren't we?
02:17
Sure. Come on.
02:18
So you're not coming with us? Oh, I'll come later.
02:22
I bought that new game we were talking about.
02:23
Are you serious? That's amazing. Have fun at the allotment. We will.
02:28
Looks like we're on our own.
02:30
Apparently.
02:32
He's not himself, is he?
02:33
No.
02:35
Why won't he talk about it? Properly, I mean...
02:38
He just wants to forget it and move on, but Monty was a big part of his routine.
02:42
Especially on weekends.
02:45
I dread to think what he said at Brookfield on Friday, Azra.
02:49
He had quite a go at David and Ruth, from what I can gather.
02:52
Perhaps he's feeling guilty now?
02:55
He's embarrassed. He's said a few angry words.
02:58
In the heat of the moment?
02:59
Yeah.
02:59
And now he's worried they think he's rude?
03:02
That could easily be it.
03:04
Do you know, I might pop over to Brookfield now. Apologise on Khalil's behalf, you know.
03:08
That might make him feel better. But should I come?
03:11
No, let's keep it casual. I was just passing, popped in to see them, that sort of thing.
03:16
Fair enough. He might relax more if he knows Dave. He's not worried about it.
03:19
Yeah, exactly.
03:21
Right.
03:22
I'll finish the lawn, then head over to the allotment. I thought you'd finish the lawn. Just need to trim that edge.
03:28
You are obsessed.
03:29
Rubbish. It just needs a little touch-up.
03:37
Hello, Ezra. What a nice surprise. Ruth, hi.
03:42
Hope I'm not disturbing you. Of course not. Just let me... It's just been delivered.
03:48
Oh, what is it?
03:49
More signs saying keep your dog on a lead. Ah, yes, that should help. David's already had Ray and put some up at Horn Farm, but he thinks we need more along the paths.
03:58
Right, right.
04:01
How are you, by the way, Ruth? We haven't caught up since your appointment a while back.
04:05
Yeah, thanks again for referring me. Not at all. I'm still not 100% sure whether I'll go through with the genetic testing. Right. But as it's going to be a while before I get an appointment, I've got time to think.
04:18
Yeah.
04:19
Of course, I can't see me getting to the top of the waiting list before Pip's wedding, can you? Unlikely, I'm afraid. But that's fine by me and hopefully Josh should be home for the wedding so I can talk to him properly then. Yeah. It'll be easier face to face. So much easier. Oh, you heard Pip and Rosie have moved into the bungalow with Stella.
04:40
Yeah, yeah, I think Ben mentioned it.
04:42
So they're in wedded bliss before the blissful wedding. Oh, good for them. You got time for a cover? Thought you'd never ask.
04:53
Why is it taking so long?
04:55
I don't know. Is it on Wi-Fi?
04:57
Khalil, I've just had a call from an old customer. His tab's leaking everywhere, so I need to go and sort it.
05:02
Okay.
05:03
I shouldn't be long, but are you two okay here?
05:06
Why wouldn't we be?
05:07
No reason. Just wondered if you'd change your mind about the allotment.
05:11
Sorry, Baba. We're playing this now. It would be if the Wi-Fi wasn't so rubbish.
05:15
Well, good luck. I won't be long.
05:21
It's not on Wi-Fi, look.
05:22
I thought I already changed that.
05:24
You never even checked. Are you OK?
05:27
Not really. I didn't get much sleep.
05:28
None at all. Hey, you weren't on this, were you?
05:31
No. You reckon my mum lets me play on this all night?
05:34
No, I suppose not.
05:35
Oh, and half the Friday, they won't leave me alone.
05:38
They've left you now.
05:39
Yeah, you wait. It'll be Zinn up next. They're driving me mad.
05:42
They probably want to check you're OK. You know you're upset about Monty.
05:47
Except it's not that so much, anyway.
05:50
No? No.
05:51
No.
05:53
I keep having flashbacks.
05:55
Of Monty?
05:56
No.
05:57
Of the mutilated sheep.
06:02
There you go. Help yourself to melt.
06:07
Actually, it's a shame David's not here because I wanted to apologise for Khalil's behaviour on Friday evening. What? What?
06:16
No, really, Azra, there's no need.
06:19
I'm not sure what he said, but I know he can be very passionate about things and forget about other people's feelings.
06:27
Well, yeah, it wasn't very nice being accused of lying. Lying? But Khalil was devastated, wasn't he? He was really upset about money. Well, yeah, it was a shock for all of us. Us too. But he's sort of getting barging in here, which we weren't expecting. He barged in. And he's a big lad now, isn't he?
06:47
Oh, Ruth, I am really sorry he did that.
06:49
No, please don't apologise.
06:52
As I say, we understand he was feeling emotional.
06:56
Yeah, I'm afraid he was.
06:58
Honestly, he thinks he's so grown up. I mean, all 15-year-olds do, don't they? But underneath? Yeah. He's still so young. Anyway, don't worry about it.
07:10
And tell him not to worry.
07:12
OK, OK, well, thank you. And it's fine.
07:16
We're fine.
07:19
Are you, though?
07:21
I realise it's a few weeks since the attack, but those were your sheep.
07:26
It must have been so traumatic finding them like that.
07:29
On my birthday as well.
07:30
Oh, Ruth.
07:31
David and Pip dealt with most of it, but...
07:34
Yeah, losing those sheep had a big impact on us emotionally.
07:40
It was a shock, you know. Yeah, I'm sure. And they were important for the farm too, of course.
07:46
And what happens to Monty now? Do you know? Not really.
07:52
We've said we can't support a community resolution, so now it's down to the police to decide.
07:58
What a horrendous situation for everyone.
08:00
Yeah, it really is.
08:06
I can't get the pictures out of my head.
08:09
This one lamp was practically ripped to pieces.
08:12
No wonder you're having nightmares.
08:15
And the photos, they were on Ruth's phone.
08:17
Yeah, she showed me.
08:19
Really?
08:19
I mean, how could Monty do that?
08:23
I don't know.
08:24
I loved him, Kira. I mean, really loved him.
08:28
He was like my friend, you know?
08:31
It probably sounds pathetic, but... No.
08:33
Well, I feel the same about Holly. She's been my best mate forever.
08:37
Those sheep weren't any kind of threat to him, were they?
08:39
No.
08:40
It's nature, though. Prey drive, they call it, don't they?
08:44
Maybe.
08:45
Happens all the time in the wild.
08:46
Yeah, but Monty was a pet.
08:48
Well, he's still a dog, with dog instincts.
08:51
I won't ever get my head around it.
08:53
Nor me.
08:54
The wounds and all the rest, they're like stuck in my brain. I shut my eyes. That's what I see.
09:01
Your mum would know what to do, Khalil. Doctors must know how to sort out stuff like this.
09:05
No.
09:07
No, I do not want her knowing about it, OK? Neither of them, or Zainab.
09:11
But it might help.
09:12
You've seen them. They already spend way too much time worrying about me.
09:15
Yeah, but they want to know you're all right. Mine are the same.
09:18
Yours aren't anything like mine.
09:21
No. OK, maybe not.
09:23
Henry's lucky too, he can do whatever he likes.
09:25
No, he can't.
09:25
And my lot would freak out if they knew about these photos.
09:28
Okay, okay.
09:28
I mean it, Kira. You can't tell them anything.
09:31
I won't.
09:32
I'll get over it soon anyway, I'm bouncy.
09:34
Yeah?
09:34
Of course I will. A few days, a week.
09:37
Okay, but terms start September and year 11's pure stress from what everyone says.
09:42
I know.
09:43
And if you're not sleeping...
09:44
I'll be fine by then. I'll have to be, won't I? Come on, we need to get on with this game, seeing as it's finally downloaded.
09:52
He must be 80-odd, and he was worried sick about his water bill mounting up.
09:56
Oh, I'm glad you've sorted him out.
09:58
Me too.
09:59
He shook my hand for at least 30 seconds.
10:03
Anyway, I hope you're hungry, my love. I'm trying a new dish with our garlic.
10:08
Oh, no, sorry, I'm full to bursting.
10:11
You should have brought some cake home for us all. Zeynep loves red velvet cake.
10:15
Well, I couldn't be that cheeky.
10:17
But she was okay then, was she, Ruth?
10:19
She was, thank goodness. She said she'd pass our apology on to David too.
10:25
I'm glad they're so understanding.
10:26
Yeah, so am I. I'll try talking to Khalil in a minute when Kira's gone home.
10:31
Good idea.
10:33
Is that Kira now?
10:35
Kira?
10:37
Kira, have you got a minute?
10:38
I'm just off home. It won't take a second. Grandma's doing a roast and she needs me peeling potatoes.
10:44
Ah, that's nice. Listen, how do you think Khalil's doing?
10:50
Uh, well, since the whole, you know, with the Monty thing.
10:53
Um... We're quite worried about him.
10:56
Right.
10:57
He's not one to make a fuss, as you know, but he seems quite unsettled, don't you think?
11:03
It is bothering him, isn't it? Well, I'm not sure.
11:06
You didn't talk about it?
11:08
We were downloading his new game. Oh. Which took ages, so... Well, you didn't mention it at all? Not much. Oh. Well, that's not good.
11:18
Not good at all.
11:19
But he did say a bit.
11:21
OK. And?
11:24
And, yeah, I think...
11:27
I think he's all right.
11:30
Do you?
11:31
I think he's fine.
11:33
Really? Well, that's good to hear.
11:36
Very good.
11:37
I've got to help my grandma now. Yeah, of course. You go.
11:40
Shall I run you home?
11:41
No, no. I like to walk. Thanks, anyway. You've been really helpful. See you later.
11:45
Thank you.
11:46
Yeah.
11:50
Well... She didn't seem too worried, did she?
11:53
No. No, she didn't. So, hopefully... Inshallah. Yeah.
11:59
Hopefully, we're worrying about nothing.
12:08
There you are, Father. I thought you must have gone into work early.
12:11
No, no, I'm checking on my aubergines. They mustn't get too dry.
12:15
Oh, they're looking good.
12:16
Yeah, I'm pleased. I need a dish of two for the flour and produce.
12:20
Oh, that was some goodings there.
12:21
Yeah, I'll be sport for choice.
12:24
This came.
12:25
I saw that from your nan by the looks of it.
12:28
Anniversary card.
12:30
No one's told her then?
12:31
Nope. My dad knows how upset she'll be.
12:33
Well, he probably wants you to tell her yourself.
12:36
Yeah, I know. I'll go and see you.
12:38
Sooner rather than later, yeah. I'm sure she'll understand when you explain.
12:43
Yeah, maybe.
12:45
This is your final week at the Bull, innit?
12:47
Yeah, Friday night's my last shift. I've booked some temps to cover, but I still feel really bad leaving.
12:53
Oh, sorry, I would pop in Friday to support you, only I'm going to do some taekwondo.
12:57
Taekwondo?
12:58
Yeah, yeah, there's a class at the community centre. I did it a few times with Aaron up in Yorkshire.
13:03
Ooh, I never knew that.
13:05
No?
13:06
Oh.
13:07
Oh, yeah. Any road, we had a right laugh and it's a great exercise and it's fantastic for stress.
13:13
Which is what you need after last week.
13:14
Yeah, I've got another tricky day today.
13:17
Oh, no. Linda and Robert again.
13:18
I'm afraid so.
13:20
They're really going through it, aren't they?
13:22
Yeah.
13:22
Oh, Linda.
13:26
Oh, it's Mum. Oh, all right, well, I'd better get to work any road. I'll see you later.
13:30
I hope it goes as well as it can. Yeah, cheers, top, top.
13:34
Mum, hi.
13:35
Hey, Fallon, how you doing?
13:36
Yeah, I'm all right, thanks.
13:37
Thought I'd give you a call, see if you've got time for a quick catch-up, being as it's, well... My wedding anniversary.
13:43
Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine, Mum.
13:45
Are you?
13:46
Really.
13:47
So, what are your plans for this morning?
13:51
I've got a couple of things to do. Then I'm popping into the crook bar to measure up the display spaces.
13:56
Oh, I'm dying to see inside there. Elizabeth said the builders have done a wonderful job.
14:01
Oh, they so have. Why not come with me?
14:05
Oh, I'd love to.
14:06
Oh, great. Well, I'll pick you up on my way. Ah.
14:13
I think that's everything signed. Well done, Lindy.
14:16
Thanks. Right, let's see. Admission of the offence, yeah, and the rest. Yeah, that's the lot. Thank you, Linda. So that's all done.
14:28
And our dear Monty is formally in your hands. I never dreamed we'd be relinquishing him like this without even seeing him.
14:35
The process can be very painful, Robert, I know.
14:39
As I said on the phone, it's a shame the community resolution didn't work out, but in a serious incident, my boss said it was always a long shot.
14:47
And without Brookfield's support?
14:50
She'll have taken everything into consideration.
14:52
It was a very serious incident. Yes, you're right. Yes, it was.
14:57
So, today you've accepted a conditional caution, Linda, and that will stay on your record for up to five years before it expires. I understand.
15:06
And Harrison, thank you. It was kind of you to come to us today. Oh, no, no, it's fine.
15:15
We'll also need your fingerprints and DNA at the station. Oh, of course.
15:22
Might we be able to do that today, Harrison?
15:24
Yeah, that's OK. I can meet you at the police station after this.
15:28
Oh, thank you. Thank you, that's very much appreciated.
15:35
Oh, it's exciting. I haven't really seen the crook barn before.
15:39
Wait till you see inside, Mum. The new lighting's fantastic. I can't get this key to work. And that door. Is it oak? Yeah, yeah, but the style gives it a modern touch, don't you think? Oh, for sure.
15:52
Oh, thanks for bringing me love. We haven't got in yet. I'll have to ring Lily, see if I've got the wrong key somehow. Is Elizabeth away? They're all at a conference. She said Lily would answer any queries. Oh, I love those windows.
16:05
Hi, Fallon. Everything OK?
16:08
Sorry to disturb you at work, Lily, but I'm having trouble with the crook barn key.
16:13
So, Mum hasn't shown you the knack then.
16:15
Oh, how do you mean?
16:17
I knew she'd forget. Right, put the key fully in, bring it back ever so slightly, and then turn it.
16:23
Okay, let's try that.
16:25
We need the locksmith in to adjust it. Aha, that's got it! Oh, great.
16:29
Oh, the door is open, hooray!
16:32
Oh, no. I'm going over the staffing schedule for Ian, but it's frazzling my brain. I needed a nice chat with someone.
16:39
Oh, we should have a proper catch-up, yeah?
16:41
Oh, yes, please. And soon. Mum's over the moon, you're joining the Lower Loxley team. But I do hope Freddie stopped annoying you now. Oh, I'm so sorry. I've got some guests arriving. No worries. Thanks, Lily. OK, bye now.
16:55
Good morning. Welcome to Grey Gables.
16:59
Yeah, that's it. That's it. One finger at a time on the glass and then it'll be your two thumbs together.
17:05
And the next one?
17:07
Yeah. Oh, that's perfect. Yeah.
17:10
Captures your fingerprints without any mess, you see, which is the opposite of when we used to use ink and paper. I mean, as you can imagine, what a kerfuffle.
17:17
Do I keep going?
17:18
Yeah. Yeah, that's it. There you go.
17:22
Army Sergeant, when I first started, he always said fingerprinting should be its own art form. I mean, tricky to get right. You're doing brilliantly, Linda.
17:31
And when we've finished here, we'll do your DNA.
17:35
As I say, that and your prints down our system, but the conditional caution expires.
17:40
My two thumbs now.
17:42
Oh, yeah, that's right. Yeah, both at the same time. There you go.
17:49
I'm very grateful for your kindness today, Harrison. And for you not being judgmental.
17:56
I know the situation hasn't been easy.
17:59
For what it's worth, Linda, I think you're handling it with tremendous dignity.
18:03
Thank you.
18:05
I'm doing my best.
18:08
So, rural craft, yeah? What else? Creative writing, jewellery making, music.
18:15
Now, the acoustics are interesting.
18:16
Yeah.
18:17
Are you doing singing? Probably. Oh, I'd love that.
18:19
Well, I need a teacher first.
18:21
No, I mean, I could teach it. You. Why not?
18:24
Because you couldn't.
18:26
I've sung all around the country.
18:29
Oh, don't tell me. I'm not up market enough for Lower Locksley.
18:33
Our session leaders have to be experienced teachers with credentials.
18:38
So I should stick to pub work.
18:40
Don't be like that, Mum. I won't be teaching anything myself either.
18:45
Booking onto one of our courses is going to be pricey.
18:49
Oh, so I won't be learning nothing here neither.
18:52
Probably do some discounts. Right. But we need to target people who can afford quality leisure and well-being activities. Not rich hobbyists, you mean. Not just them, but we need to make a profit, Mum. And I reckon I can run this place really well.
19:08
Does that make me a bad person?
19:10
No, of course not.
19:13
I just thought authentic was what everyone was looking for nowadays. Well, except authentic means different things to different people. Yeah. Anyway, I'm lucky because Elizabeth is such a supportive boss. I thought they were quite supportive.
19:25
Ah, Mum, stop it.
19:27
You said you wanted to cheer me up on my wedding anniversary. I do. Well, you're right, Fallon. This isn't about me. Oh.
19:34
And don't worry about the pub, because it turns out one of mixed contacts is interested in your job.
19:42
We're short on the bar, mind, because Tracy's pretty busy now, but... You'll work it out, won't you? Yeah, of course.
19:49
But it don't mean we won't miss you, my darling.
19:52
Same here.
19:54
But I really think...
19:56
I really think this is where I need to be.
20:01
Yeah, Mick checks your wanted lists every week.
20:04
I'm sorry?
20:06
When the police post these mugshots with, have you seen this man?
20:09
Oh, I'm with you now, yeah. Mixed message, we're a bit garbled.
20:14
Here, let me rewind the CCTV, hang on.
20:18
Okay, here.
20:20
Green baseball cap coming into reception.
20:23
Oh, that's our suspect.
20:24
Mick said he recognised him straight away.
20:26
He's got better eyes than me.
20:28
Exactly what Oliver said. But, wait a second.
20:33
With his head down in that cab.
20:35
I checked our car park footage and watch this.
20:39
The wind blows his cap off. See? Look at that.
20:44
You know, Mick's right. Yeah, that's him. That is him, clear as day.
20:50
Right, and then we go forward to see him getting into a car.
20:57
And you've got the number plate.
20:59
Voila.
21:01
He's brilliant. We'll pick him up soon as well. Thanks to you, there's one less villain on the streets.
21:07
It's down to Mick, really. He's starting to be going on this. Sorry he's not here, by the way. He's on Nights this week.
21:14
Oh, yeah. I'll need a copy of that CCTV if you can do that for me. Yeah.
21:17
No problem. Here's one I made earlier.
21:20
Oh, wow. You've done a great job here, Lily. He's a right piece of work, that board.
21:25
Then I'm delighted to help.
21:28
Oh, I'll also need a statement as well.
21:31
I could be more impressed. You've got the golden touch.
21:35
I wish. No, you have. Well, let's hope it stretches to the flour and produce show then, Harrison, because I've been dragged onto the committee and everyone seems to be depending on me for it to go well this year. After last year's chaos.
21:48
It was terrible, wasn't it? And the year before it, with the mystery of the collapsing table.
21:52
Ah, now, if we'd had CCTV on that occasion... Ah, now, you'd have solved table gate. I would, wouldn't I?
21:59
Oh, but no, listen, it'll be fine this year, so long as there's loads of entries, which there always is. I know Fallon's bringing some vegetables.
22:06
Oh, listen, I'm so sorry to hear about you and Fallon. Mum told me last week.
22:12
Oh, well, it is what it is.
22:14
Still, though...
22:15
It hasn't been working for a while, truth be told.
22:17
Well, I hope you're all OK. You've cheered me up no end with this footage. Good. You are very welcome.
22:26
Well, they do a decent cup of tea, I'll give them that.
22:30
I thought you were going to faint when we came out of the police station. I suddenly felt exhausted. I'm so very, very sorry this landed on you, Lindy. Robert. We didn't give it a thought when we adopted him, did we? I sorted out the donation while you... I signed all the forms as Monty's new owner. It's making you responsible, your neck on the block. When it was me who should have mended that wretched gate, lad. Please don't let's go over this again. No, no, all right. But I'm sorry you had to go through all that on your own. Oh, Harrison was very sweet.
23:02
He didn't feel too alone. He's a kind chap and a good friend.
23:07
Does he know when Monty will be assessed as being suitable for rehoming?
23:11
Soon, apparently. He said he'd passed on Monty's history, that he'd never done such a thing before and is friendly with people, etc. He thought there was a good chance of rehoming. Right. But it's in their hands now.
23:25
And if he's deemed not suitable to rehome, he could be put to sleep.
23:30
Harrison did assure me their specialist dog officers will do their best. Yes, well, there's hope.
23:38
Now, humbling though today has been, we have work to do at Ambridge Hall. Yes, preparing for Wednesday's guests. Do we know what time they're arriving? Evening sometime. Right. We'll have a full house by the weekend, won't we? We will. So we must try hard to stop worrying about Monty and about how we're feeling and concentrate on our guests. Giving them the very best experience we can. Absolutely. And working hard is how we'll get through this ordeal.
24:04
We'll get through it together, Lindy. Yes.
24:08
We'll get through it together.
24:16
George, I thought you'd gone home. Not yet. You've scraped the yard pretty well, Grandpa. I should hope so.
24:22
Except that bit in the corner. Well, where? There. Shall I get you the brush? No need, cos you can do it with your good arm. Seeing as you're still here, checking up on me. I'm not checking up on you. I just want to know the job's done. Proper, like...
24:36
I've been seen to livestock for most of me adult life, George. So I reckon I know practically everything there is to know about dairy. Don't you? I guess. You're lucky I can cover you at all, son. Cos I had my eye on a landscaping job at Edgley, which would have been a nice little earner. I'm glad you could help, Grandpa. And so's Esme.
24:58
My wrist, though, don't half ache. It will do. Fractures need resting. The hospital said that, didn't they? So you may as well stop home rather than trooping up here every afternoon just to criticise. I'm not doing that. I don't mean to, any road.
25:15
No. But I can't stay in. It's doing my nut. Everything takes forever with one arm.
25:20
Even making a blooming sandwich. OK, but you could catch up with the telly or rig the paper.
25:28
Do you still buy that car magazine? Nah, you can read that stuff online now.
25:32
Then read it.
25:34
You were always yabbering on about flash cars. Why not get back into it now you've got time, eh?
25:40
Well, Amber sorts everything for the baby as well as working. She's tired enough as it is.
25:48
When's Amber stopping work? Can't be long because that baby's on its way soon. Mark my words. She's working right up to the birth, if she can.
25:56
Is she?
25:57
She'll be knackered. Well, no choice now I'm on sick pay. Because that's a right kick in the teeth, money-wise. But yeah, she will be knackered.
26:04
She'll need her energy for a newborn. You both do. And I'd be fine if it weren't for this stupid wrist.
26:11
Amber's done well with all these social media brand deals, hasn't she? Loads of freebies.
26:17
Which is amazing. But now we've got three baby slings, two bouncing chairs, and yesterday's delivery was a walker we can't use till the baby's six months. Your grandma couldn't find room for some of that at Grangeville.
26:31
Hey, but why not sell it?
26:33
I wish we could, but they want Amber using it in her content, don't they?
26:39
Oh, yeah, of course. Oh. This injury can be worse timing. I'm going to struggle to help with the baby, you know.
26:45
Sorry, George, but that's life. Bad things happen, and you just have to get on with it till the next bad thing happens. Right. Well, cheers, Grandpa.
26:59
Yeah, the horse box salon's going great, cons now. Because, of course, Chelsea earned enough at the fete to buy a second-hand hairdressing kit. You knew she would.
27:11
I did think I'd have my house back by now, though.
27:15
With great-grandad moving back to Auntie Tracy's. Brad ain't finished redecorating the room yet, nana.
27:20
Well, between you and me, I'm not sure Brad's a natural with a paint roller.
27:26
Last time I dropped by, I swear there was more emulsion in his hair than on the ceiling.
27:32
Right, all the shelves down there are clean. Oh, thanks ever so much, love. It's back-breaking getting down there at my age. Shall I restack them now? No, no, no, you've done enough. Jory can do the rest tomorrow.
27:45
Oh, by the way, have you seen the snails recently?
27:49
No.
27:50
Such a shock about Monty. Stella was in earlier. She said Brookfield were flabbergasted it was him who attacked their flock.
28:00
But he's been taken away now, so that's a relief.
28:04
Wasn't to be trusted any more.
28:06
Yeah.
28:08
I don't get it, Nana. Monty's always been that gentle... Oh, you should see Khalil. He's in bits.
28:15
Well, I hope he's not sticking up for him, cos the DNA proved it from what I hear.
28:21
No, he's sad, Nana.
28:23
More than sad.
28:25
I don't know what to say to him.
28:30
That fence post needs fixing, George. Can you do it tomorrow, then? You don't have cracked the whip, son. What is me like to me to stay on top of things?
28:39
Oh, speak of the devil. Afternoon. Hey, Esme.
28:42
Glad I caught you, Eddie. Any chance you can do the morning milking as well on Thursday? I've got a meeting with the accountant.
28:48
Er, let me think. You can do that, can't you, Grandpa? Possibly. Now, did you have my money for last week, Esme?
28:55
Yes, sorry. I've been bidding for website contracts and I'm trying to book my car into the garage.
29:00
Clutch playing up again?
29:01
Yeah. Luckily it's still under warranty, so... Sorry, I haven't had a minute to think.
29:07
No problem. Cash is best, if that's OK.
29:10
Isn't a transfer easier?
29:12
Not for me.
29:12
Oh.
29:13
Only I did turn down a lucrative little landscaping job to help out here, didn't I, George? Did you?
29:20
Well, I'm really thankful you've stepped in like this, Eddie. I don't know what we'd have done without you. Do you, George?
29:26
He's been a lifesaver. Nice of you to say so.
29:29
Luckily it won't be for much longer. That cast comes off soon, doesn't it?
29:33
Not for a few weeks. Then I need physio.
29:36
Really?
29:38
I don't know why I thought it was quicker than that.
29:40
Well, it's not like major damage, but... It needs proper time to heal. There'll be a date on your sick note, but Grandpa can cover me, so it's fine.
29:48
Not for me, not with sick pay on top.
29:51
But that's my problem, not yours. Don't worry.
29:54
Give me a minute and I'll see if I've got enough cash. Otherwise I'll pop to the bank tomorrow.
29:58
Right you are. You never even got offered that landscaping, let alone turned it down. She don't know that, George. I know, but... You've got to play to your advantage. Surely you know that by now.
30:13
Ooh, I needed this coffee. Mmm.
30:17
Sorry, love. I'm not sure I understand about Khalil. He's not worried about Monty, then.
30:24
Yeah, obviously he is, but that's not the thing.
30:28
So what's the thing? What's stopping him sleeping?
30:31
It's the attack. What happened, you know? The injured lambs, all that.
30:36
But how did he see the dead sheep? I'm confused.
30:39
Oh, don't worry. It's a bit complicated.
30:42
No, no, it's me being dim, I expect. Oh.
30:47
Oh, hello, Asra.
30:48
Hi, Susan. Oh, Kira. Hey. I won't interrupt. I've just come back for some online meetings.
30:54
I thought I'd pop in for some ice lollies first. Oh, we had a delivery this morning, so you're in luck.
30:59
But I was just asking about Khalil, wasn't I, Kira?
31:04
Nana.
31:05
Yeah, he's very down in the dumps. Kira says he's not sleeping.
31:09
Really?
31:10
Well, he hasn't mentioned that.
31:11
Well, it's probably nothing. Well, no, you said it's about seeing the attack or something, which I didn't understand. You tell Dr Malick, Keira. Go on.
31:21
Keira?
31:25
There we go, Eddie. Sorry it's late.
31:28
Oh, ta very much.
31:30
I've given you a bit extra, cos I know you turned down that job to help us out.
31:33
Much appreciated, Esme.
31:35
We're grateful, aren't we, George?
31:37
Yeah. Yeah.
31:38
Right, I'll leave you to it then. I'm catching up with emails this afternoon.
31:42
No rest for the wicked, eh?
31:44
You're doing a grand job, love. Your old dad would be proud.
31:48
Thanks, Eddie, I hope so. I'll see you both.
31:51
Bye now.
31:53
She's always working, you know. Evenings and all. Yeah, can be a right slog farming.
32:00
You have to love it. Especially being a tenant farmer. I thought with me helping she'd get less stressed. It's not been long since she took over, really, but the farm's ticking along, ain't it? It is, but when's it going to get easier? Who knows? Sometimes hard work don't pay off for a while.
32:18
Right, here you go. She's given me an extra 20, and you said you were short.
32:25
Okay, ta. Might take the pressure off a bit.
32:29
Not really, but ta anyway.
32:34
But how did he see what happened? That's what I don't understand. Well, he was at school that day with you, wasn't he?
32:40
Yeah, no.
32:43
I mean, we weren't there, there. Not in the field, like. Well, if he was at school... There were photos. Photos?
32:52
How do you mean, love? I don't know. Just some photos.
32:57
Of the sheep?
32:59
The dead sheep? And dying ones, yeah. Oh, what? You mean the blood and the bits of bodies.
33:08
But who would have taken such gruesome photos? Lots of people, Azra. Brookfield, the vets, the police. They'd need photographic evidence, wouldn't they? That's true.
33:19
Absolutely. But Khalil don't want to fuss. So how did he see them? I don't know.
33:24
Did he see them online?
33:26
No, no.
33:27
And he don't want you worrying. Well, we'll have to report it. You can't share that kind of thing online. No, absolutely not.
33:34
But it weren't online. It were more on... More on what? On someone's...
33:40
Sorry?
33:41
Someone's phone.
33:43
Oh, right, right. But whose phone? I don't know. But Linda came to bring her home, so then it were OK. OK. Well, no, they were really distressed, both of them.
33:54
But if he's seen pictures like that, pictures of the attack, well, that could explain why he's so...
34:00
He's just not communicating with us at the moment.
34:02
Well, you can't say I told you.
34:03
Oh, sorry, look at the time, I'm late. Shall I get you those eyes, lollies, Azra? I haven't got time now, but thanks, Ciara, that was really helpful. Please don't tell him I said anything. Thanks, both. Azra!
34:16
Well, it's a good job she came in. Sounds like she didn't know any of this.
34:20
No, she didn't. Cos Kaleel don't want her knowing.
34:23
Well, I'm sorry, love, but she needed to know. She was very concerned about him.
34:28
Yeah, but he'll be annoyed with me now. What for? For snitching.
34:33
Oh, that's not snitching, Kira.
34:35
But he told me not to say, and now she knows.
34:38
That's being helpful and caring, not snitching.
34:41
He won't think that, will he?
34:43
When you're doing something like that... Like being a traitor. When you're going against someone's wishes for their own good, well, that's completely different. It's not, though. I'm telling you, Keira, it is.
34:55
You were worried about him, and you had the best intentions. So in the end, he'll see that.
35:08
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35:31
Oh, this steak keeps moving.
35:33
I'm sorry, George. Didn't I cut it up small enough? Give it here.
35:37
I overcooked it a bit, didn't I?
35:38
A bit?
35:39
Yeah, sorry, Amber. It were a nice steak and all.
35:42
You were just trying to help. It's fine.
35:45
We're always rushing to get to this class, but it's worth it.
35:48
Yeah, well, I never thought a posh antenatal course would be such a laugh.
35:52
There you go.
35:53
Ta-ta.
35:53
It's because they like birthing partners to come too, which doesn't always happen apparently. I think that's why they wanted me to feature it in my content.
36:00
The other guys crapped me up, but I'm glad we ain't paying for it.
36:04
No, it's not cheap. But it's such a nice atmosphere. And Chloe and Joel had their baby last night. Did you see the message?
36:12
Cute picture, but Chloe looked proper knackered.
36:14
And Joel did.
36:15
Class is getting smaller every week.
36:17
Might be us next.
36:22
Sorry to call at this time.
36:23
Oh, not at all, Azra. I was just doing some last-minute dusting. Do sit down.
36:28
Thanks.
36:29
Do you have guests arriving tonight? Well, we've got several already. But another couple are due in an hour. They have particularly high expectations, I gather. Well, then they won't be disappointed, Linda. Kind of you to say.
36:44
Now, how is Khalil? I'm so sorry we haven't managed to see him since, well, since last week's upset.
36:52
Well, you've had a horrible couple of weeks. You could say that.
36:56
I had to accept a conditional caution on Monday.
36:59
Oh, Linda, no.
37:00
I took my fingerprints and DNA.
37:01
How awful.
37:02
Yes, but that wasn't the worst of it. No? No.
37:07
No, the worst thing was signing Monty over to them.
37:09
Oh, dear.
37:10
For rehoming. We hope it's for rehoming, you know, because otherwise it... Oh, I'm so sorry.
37:17
It's... Well, you've really been going through the mailbox.
37:20
It does rather feel like that, yes. But I am concerned about Khalil Azra because he was terribly upset last week.
37:27
And being so young... Linda, do you mind if I ask you what happened on Friday night? I mean, in detail.
37:35
Only Kira said something yesterday that shocked me. But I don't want to bring it up with Khalil if she's got it wrong. Of course. What did Kira say? She said he saw some photos of... Well, you know, after the attack, the injured sheep, the bodies.
37:54
Ah, right. Well, I wasn't at Brookfield Long as were only minutes, really, but... Now you say that, I think he might have.
38:04
He might have seen some photos. Yes. You didn't see them.
38:07
No, I didn't. When I got there, he was sipping a glass of water with David and Ruth and then he sort of fell into my arms.
38:14
He was really upset.
38:15
He was. And he'd been quite angry about it earlier, but...
38:19
I'm afraid I have no idea what was said before I arrived. Although, yes, David did mention something about photos.
38:28
But Khalil had seen them.
38:29
I think so, but I can't remember exactly.
38:32
Sorry, Ezra, it was all so fraught.
38:35
I just wanted to get him home. Yeah.
38:39
Robert and I weren't allowed to be at Brookfield, you see. Harrison had been very clear about that. So I rushed Khalil away.
38:45
Well, I'm very grateful that you followed him there.
38:48
It was the quickest way. We could have rung you and Akram, but by the time you'd got there... No, no, you had to act fast.
38:55
Look, I'm sorry to have disturbed you when you're so busy, but it sounds like Keira was right, so I need to talk to Khalil.
39:03
Right, well, please send our love and say we'll see him very soon.
39:11
And we must check on the ewes this week.
39:14
Yeah, they need to be at peak fitness.
39:16
Brookfield needs as many lambs this year as possible.
39:19
We certainly do.
39:21
Oh, we have visitors.
39:24
Yeah, it's Akram and Azra.
39:26
Unusual at this time.
39:27
They haven't rung us, have they?
39:29
Don't think so.
39:31
Evening. Ruth.
39:32
David. Hi. To what do we owe this pleasure? Have you got a few minutes? Sure.
39:38
I'll put the kettle on.
39:40
No, thanks. We won't stop. Is everything okay?
39:43
Not really. You see, we've been... We've been talking to Khalil.
39:47
He's in quite a bad way.
39:50
Right.
39:50
We thought he was worrying about Monty. Oh, sure.
39:53
But it seems to be more than that.
39:56
In what way? I mean, can we help? I hope so, because that's why we are here.
40:04
George! Sorry, were you expecting someone else?
40:07
I thought it might be our new guest, but not to worry.
40:10
Grandma sent these.
40:12
For me?
40:13
A few blooms from Grange Farm to say she's thinking of you. And Robert.
40:18
Oh, heavens. They're beautiful.
40:21
Peruvian lilies, I think she called them.
40:24
Sorry, I'm rubbish at flowers.
40:25
No, no, that's quite right. Peruvian lilies. Thank you for bringing them.
40:29
You're welcome. We're off to an antenatal class, so this is on our way. I see.
40:35
You OK, Linda?
40:36
Oh, yes.
40:38
It's just I wasn't sure how people would feel towards us.
40:43
How do you mean? Well, the farming community, our neighbours, after what happened.
40:49
Oh.
40:50
Well, obviously that were bad, but everyone knows how much you love Monty.
40:54
Yes, we did.
40:56
And Grandma's never been the judgy type. In fact, she's always telling us not to be like that. Is she? Yeah, all the time.
41:03
Which is lucky for me, I reckon, because there's folk been complaining about me for years.
41:09
Anyway, best go, because Amber's waiting in the car. Yes. She says hello, by the way.
41:13
Oh, yes, hello back from me.
41:15
And George.
41:16
Yeah?
41:18
Please say thank you to Clary.
41:20
I will.
41:21
Bye now.
41:22
Bye.
41:25
What he's told us now...
41:27
Which he didn't before.
41:28
..is that when he was here on Friday night, he saw photos.
41:34
So he did see some photos? I'm afraid he did. Of the dying animals and mutilated lambs?
41:42
Yes.
41:44
Yes, it was an upsetting scene.
41:46
Appalling, but how did he see photos?
41:51
Well, actually, they were on one of our phones.
41:54
My phone. It was my phone.
41:57
And you saw them how? Well, he sort of came in shouting and telling us we were lying and that Monty was an innocent victim, wrongly accused.
42:07
We tried saying our sheep were the victims here.
42:10
Our lambs. But we couldn't seem to calm him down, could we, love?
42:13
He wouldn't listen. You said that on Sunday, and it was very rude of him, obviously, but...
42:20
But what happened then?
42:22
What happened?
42:23
We'd like to know, please.
42:25
Okay.
42:26
Well, what happened then was I showed him the four doors. You showed them to him? Yeah.
42:37
What, to shut him up? No, it wasn't like that. Not at all. No? Honestly? Khalil hasn't slept properly since Friday because...
42:45
He's having nightmares and flashbacks.
42:47
And he cannot get those images out of his mind, however hard he tries.
42:51
Oh, poor kid. Yes, he's a kid from Solihull who's only recently been in the countryside. And so this has been very difficult for him.
43:02
Made so much worse by you showing him what must have been some very gruesome photos. I'm really sorry.
43:11
It was kind of spur of the moment.
43:14
thing to sort of shock him into realizing what had happened you shocked him all right he's 15 years old he's he's a child he's he's been through a lot in his life but this he's not coping didn't you realize it would affect him i mean you've raised three children yourselves we have and you're right
43:37
I shouldn't have done it.
43:38
It was just the heat of the moment.
43:40
No, David. It was a stupid, impulsive mistake, which I deeply regret.
43:44
But not enough to tell me about it on Sunday.
43:48
Or any time since.
43:50
I'm sorry, Ruth.
43:51
I just can't understand how you let me apologise for Khalil's rudeness without even mentioning the photos.
43:57
I'm really sorry. I don't know why I didn't see anything. I just assumed he'd have told you.
44:02
He's a teenager. He tells us nothing, which is part of the course, surely. It's not just our family. No, of course not.
44:09
Look, Ruth, it must have been obvious I didn't know. I know this sounds ridiculous, but it never occurred to me.
44:16
I suppose I wasn't thinking about Khalil on Sunday. But that's who we were talking about. No, I know. But I was thinking about, well, the farm.
44:27
Us.
44:29
Oh, I couldn't be more sorry. It...
44:33
It's no excuse, Azra, but this whole thing has been stressful for us too.
44:38
We understand that.
44:40
And thank you for your honesty.
44:43
I am so sorry, Azra. I know you are.
44:49
Shall we go?
44:51
We'll have to get back to him.
44:54
Goodbye. Bye.
44:56
Sorry again.
45:03
How on earth did it come to that?
45:05
I have no idea.
45:06
I feel absolutely dreadful.
45:09
Oh.
45:11
It was one of those things, Ruth.
45:13
We'd have been just as angry if that had happened to our kids.
45:16
Well, we would, although, to be fair, they were probably a bit hardier and less naive.
45:20
Well, that's not Khalil's fault.
45:22
No.
45:24
Oh, Ruth, that did not go well.
45:27
Our flock gets attacked and then we mess things up.
45:30
So badly.
45:31
Ends up with us in the wrong.
45:33
Me?
45:34
I was in the wrong. I've just been so supportive. A really good friend.
45:41
I don't think she's ever going to forgive me.
45:46
The point was for the partners to make the loudest noise you could. I know. Because that's what we might have to do as a way of coping with the pain.
45:53
I get that.
45:54
But it was just silence from you lot, not a peak.
45:57
No one wanted to crack first, did they?
45:59
Talk about male pride.
46:00
It were embarrassing.
46:02
How are we supposed to feel giving birth?
46:04
You'll be past embarrassment, won't you?
46:07
Thank you very much.
46:11
I need to stop laughing, my belly hurts.
46:12
Well, I'm glad you had a good time.
46:14
Didn't you?
46:17
Nah, I weren't really feeling it for some reason.
46:19
Really? You usually have quite a laugh with those guys.
46:23
Tonight I kept thinking, and I know you won't like this, so don't shoot me down.
46:26
Yeah, go on.
46:27
I looked at the other blokes and I thought, they're out at work all day, pulling their weight, like, providing for their families. And here's me, stuck on the sick, not able to do nothing, not even cut my own food. What use am I?
46:42
We've talked about this, George. It's not about providing, is it? We're both doing that.
46:48
Yeah, but you're the one carrying the baby. So I should be out there, getting things ready, financially.
46:54
You've got an injury. It's not your fault.
46:57
And at the moment, it's nice knowing you're close. Not out providing, OK?
47:04
It's hard being this big and this tired and...
47:07
this scared I'm scared too so we have to have faith in each other okay we're both scared but we have a roof over our head and a loving family around us sure look I know you feel rubbish about not working at the moment but it's temporary till you recover then everything will be back to normal okay yeah okay okay so can you please stop talking about providing for me
47:36
Well, I could, but that'd be boring, so I'm just going to keep saying it now just to wind you up.
47:41
George.
47:41
Because let's face it, I am the big provider.
47:52
Sally and her mother are looking forward to walking up Lakey Hill later. You seem very glad of your suggestion. That would be a wonderful view today. Yes.
48:01
I'm afraid Diane's breakfast is a little too hot for her, Robert.
48:07
I'll take it back out after room three have had their tea.
48:10
Sorry, it's too hot for her.
48:13
There's something wrong with the coffee machine.
48:15
Well, her husband thinks the coffee tastes a little funny.
48:18
Really? Well, we clean it regularly. Well, he thought you could taste the oils. Oh, heavens, no-one's ever said that.
48:25
No-one's ever said their breakfast is too hot.
48:28
Can't you leave it on the table until it cools down?
48:31
Well, she's concerned a lingering smell might put her off.
48:35
Oh, dear.
48:36
I really must eat the oil in front of the guests. get any sleep last night, Lindy?
48:41
A little. I expect I'll be better tonight.
48:44
Once breakfast is over, why don't you have a nap? I can hold the fort.
48:48
Oh, yes. I might do that. Thank you, Robert.
48:52
But we have breakfast to get through first and guests to please.
48:55
Absolutely. Their wish is our command.
48:58
Indeed it is.
49:06
Oh, and he's back again. Just can't stay away from Meadow Farm, can you? Dad dropped me on the way to Bridge Farm. You should have helped him with his deliveries. Huh? Why not? How can I help him, Grandpa? Can't drive, can't lift the veg boxes. You can knock on doors, can't you? With your good arm. Oh, that'll really help him out. Better than breathing down my neck all the time. Not all the time. Hey, how come you missed out on telling me what's what at morning milking, George? Yeah. Oversleep, did you?
49:36
No, I was doing a shopping list for Amber. I got distracted yesterday.
49:40
Yeah, too busy criticising my work. Actually, I was reading about this new supercar online.
49:45
Were you? Yeah, it's got amazing reviews. I'll show you. Hang on.
49:51
Yeah, top speed over 200. Yeah, but where can you do that? What do you reckon?
49:58
Very sleek. The air suspension is that smooth, they reckon it's like flying.
50:03
That'll be handy for the potholes round here.
50:06
Well, I'm chuffed you took my advice for once, George. See, I do listen to you. First time for everything. Not that I'm ever going to own a motor like that. Yeah, but you can still take an interest, can't you? Yeah, I guess. And it'll stop you stressing about stuff you can't do nothing about. Yeah. Yeah.
50:25
You need to relax a bit, son. Roll with the punches. At the end of the day, that's all us farmers can do. True that. Work our guts out. Take our chances, then hope for the best.
50:35
Yeah, yeah. Grandpa, is that exactly vertical? Eh?
50:39
The fence post looks a bit... Oh, no, it's fine. Now, hold it steady, will you? So I can finish it off.
50:46
Yeah, but I'm not sure it's quite... Not one more word, George Grundy?
50:54
Here we are, Diane, your husband's fresh coffee.
50:57
Ah.
50:57
I'll leave it there for him, shall I?
50:59
I'm afraid he's given up and gone back to our room.
51:02
Oh, really? I didn't think I was that long. Perhaps you can take it up to him. Or you could message him to come down.
51:09
He'd prefer it upstairs.
51:11
Well, unfortunately, we don't do room service as such, and I have other guests to see to.
51:16
Your wife could take it up. He does love his morning coffee.
51:22
Why not take it up with you when you go? You've nearly finished by the looks of it, so it'll still be piping hot. Is everything all right?
51:28
Yes, it was perfectly adequate once it was down to the right temperature.
51:32
Excellent.
51:33
Although...
51:35
Although...
51:36
I probably shouldn't mention it, but the sausages were on the grainy side. Pardon?
51:43
Pardon?
51:43
Just a little too grainy to be premium.
51:47
Goodness. I'm sorry you thought that. They usually go down very well.
51:53
You did say they were locally produced.
51:55
Yes, we always aim to use local suppliers. Those sausages are from Bridge Farm just along the road. Minimum 90% pork.
52:03
I find that hard to believe.
52:05
They're trusted suppliers. And they have a wonderful tea room if you fancy a delicious cake while you're in the vicinity.
52:11
I suppose we could pop in to mention the poor sausage quality.
52:15
We generally find their produce hard to beat, as do our neighbours.
52:21
Ah, yes, I meant to ask about that. It says in your literature that you're well keyed into the farming community.
52:27
We certainly pride ourselves on that.
52:29
Even now?
52:31
Sorry?
52:31
I mean, recently.
52:34
Because they must be terribly forgiving.
52:37
I'm not following.
52:38
It's just that the bull was mentioned on the village website, and, of course, you recommended it yourselves.
52:44
Absolutely.
52:45
So we popped in last evening, and you're right. It's a very friendly atmosphere.
52:50
Good.
52:51
But while we were there, we overheard...
52:55
I'm afraid several people were talking about you and your wife.
52:59
Oh.
53:00
And about your Doberman. Monty, was he called?
53:04
Wasn't it your dog, this Monty, that viciously attacked a neighbour's sheep?
53:12
That is completely straight. If you say so. Hi.
53:16
You forgot your house keys, George. What?
53:18
Did I?
53:18
You did. Morning, Eddie.
53:20
Morning, love.
53:21
They were on the table.
53:22
Oh, ta. You on your way to work, Amber?
53:24
Yep. My boss wants me to sort out the stock requirements for Christmas.
53:28
Bit soon, ain't it? Well, he's getting his money's worth out of her before she goes on maternity leave. Oh. Oh, I hear George is dreaming about luxury motors.
53:37
Oh, he's not still going on about suspension systems. All this morning he's been rabbiting on.
53:42
You've got to have good suspension.
53:44
He'll be fitting one on the baby's pram if we're not careful.
53:48
I'd love to see that. All right, you two. I'll stick to the tractor and my rusty old bike. I bet you know more than him about performance motors, Amber.
53:56
I'm probably out of date now, to be fair, because it all moves so fast. The cars and the technology.
54:01
Oh, very funny. No, don't encourage her.
54:03
Sorry, but I did spend my entire childhood listening to Dad raving on about 0-60 in ever-decreasing seconds.
54:10
Under two for that supercar I was looking at. Ugh. Hang on. I just had a thought. You should see if your dad needs help in his showroom for a few weeks, Amber. Sorry? Well, George here's got his cast on. Are you trying to get rid of me? Of course I am.
54:23
Wouldn't you find it more interesting there?
54:26
I don't know.
54:30
Sorry, is it my eyes or is that post a bit skewed with?
54:32
Oh, don't you start. Told you. I'm off to check the water troughs. Do not follow me, George. You all right? Keep your hair on.
54:39
Oh, he sounds a bit fed up with you.
54:42
Tell you what, the minute I get this cast off, I'm straightening this post up.
54:46
Leave it!
54:50
No, I'm sorry. Was that information not correct? People can rather exaggerate.
54:56
Believe me, it's completely out of context. Now, can I jot down some local viewing points?
55:01
I take an interest because I feel dangerous dogs can be the scourge of a community.
55:05
Well, that wasn't the situation here.
55:07
I gather he was a rescue dog, your Monty. How about cycling routes along the Am? Because with rescues, the truth is you never know what happened in their early life, do you? There are aspects which never leave them, however hard you try.
55:21
Actually, I will take your husband's coffee up.
55:24
No, no, please don't worry. It won't be hot enough now. I've only just made it.
55:28
No offence, but I'm astonished the dog sanctuary even let you take a Doberman home at your age.
55:38
Yeah, not one of Grandpa's better ideas, were it? Because you wouldn't want me anywhere near your dad's showroom, not after the county show.
55:44
No, and anyway, you'd hate it.
55:47
I wouldn't.
55:48
Sorry?
55:49
I'd actually really love it.
55:51
What?
55:52
Because if you think about it, even with one arm, I could help with marketing or their socials, couldn't I?
55:58
I don't know.
55:58
And I'd be out the house, at least. Because Grandpa don't want me hanging round here all the time, does he?
56:03
Clearly not.
56:04
Plus, I'd get to see the latest motors up close.
56:07
Dad doesn't sell supercars, George. I know that, don't I?
56:10
But I could hear about the new features coming down the line. All the amazing stuff I've been reading about.
56:17
But, I mean, only if you don't mind.
56:20
I'm not sure.
56:21
Look, if you think it'll be awkward, it's fine to forget it. It was just a silly idea from Grandpa.
56:27
Well, I suppose it would only be temporary.
56:32
Well, yeah, only till my wrist gets better. Because I'm going to need physio too, aren't I?
56:37
Before you can work back on the farm, yeah.
56:41
Actually, Dad's often short-staffed over the summer because everyone takes holiday.
56:46
So you never know. I might be doing him a favour.
56:50
OK. Look, I'll give him a call later. We'll see what he says.
56:53
He may hate the idea.
56:55
We won't know till we ask.
56:57
So you're not coming back for the afternoon milking, then?
56:59
You reckon Grandpa will batter me if I do?
57:02
Sorry, George, but yeah, definitely.
57:08
Didn't anyone point out the physical requirements of that kind of dog? Because if he broke free from you because you couldn't hold him... No, that's not what happened, not at all.
57:17
Would you mind lowering your voice?
57:19
If you tell me which sanctuary it was, I could help you make a complaint.
57:23
That's not necessary, Diane. No.
57:25
If they're not assessing potential owners properly and not taking the adopter's age into account, they shouldn't be allowed to rehome such aggressive dogs. But he wasn't aggressive. He killed 15 sheep. It sounded horrendous. I assume he's been put down because no one seemed to know in the pub.
57:42
Please, could you keep your voice down? My wife will hear and she's upset enough as it is.
57:46
Sorry, but that's hardly surprising. I expect you're both feeling horribly responsible because it's hard to say who looks more exhausted, you or your wife.
57:55
I need to go back to the kitchen.
57:57
Knowing your dog killed so many sheep, that would stop anyone sleeping. Have you finished with the sauces? Not yet, no. Oh.
58:06
My point is that if you got lumbered with a dog you couldn't control, then is it really your fault?
58:13
I'm afraid I've never felt the need to say this to anyone before, Diane, least of all a paying guest, but I'm asking you very politely if you would please mind your own business.
58:23
I'm sorry.
58:23
No offence intended.
58:25
Ah, here's your wife. You both seem to be having quite a discussion.
58:28
Yes, no, don't worry, Lindy. It's a tiny problem with the breakfast.
58:32
There's nothing wrong with that. Well, apart from the sausages and the coffee. But I was just telling your husband that I think it's a shame you're in such denial.
58:41
Really? This is a very misguided conversation.
58:43
But if you won't listen to sense... I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Who's not listening to sense? You two were obviously not capable of controlling a fully grown Doberman. So in a community like this, with vulnerable livestock at every turn, the end result was entirely predictable. What? You... I'm only trying to advise you about the facts as I see them. But they're not facts, because that's not what happened. I think you'll find the people in the pub knew exactly what happened. Everyone was talking about it.
59:15
Yeah, that's enough.
59:16
They don't know. They don't know anything. In fact, it's more than enough. Robert, dear, more tea for room two, please.
59:22
No, Lindy, I... No, no, we mustn't keep them waiting.
59:25
Yes.
59:27
Yes, of course.
59:31
Now, Diane, I suggest you go upstairs, then pack your bags, and please vacate our property, you and your husband. What? You can't meet.
59:43
We've booked for a week. I don't care how long you've booked for. Your conduct is unacceptable, and you're no longer welcome in our home. Please be so kind as to leave. Immediately.
60:01
Because we could do something tomorrow, yeah? And I reckon Henry's around and all, so maybe the escape room? I can get my dad to drop us in Borchester or wherever we... No thanks, Kira.
60:11
Delete.
60:12
Khalil!
60:13
Oh, no. Sorry, were you on the phone with someone?
60:17
Hey, Ruth. No, no, I was just listening to her message. It's fine.
60:21
OK.
60:23
So, anyway, how are you doing? Yeah, all right, yeah.
60:27
Mum and Dad are in Solihull visiting some friends.
60:28
Are they?
60:29
And Zinab's working late, so I'm going to Henry's for tea.
60:32
That's nice.
60:33
Actually, I was hoping to bump into you, if you've got a moment.
60:39
Sorry, Ruth, but Henry's cooking pasta for his family, so I don't want to be late.
60:44
Look, I promise not to keep you long, but could we sit on the bench for just a minute?
60:49
Really?
60:50
If Axel here with you, I'd appreciate it.
60:54
Sure. Just for a minute, then.
60:56
Thanks, Kalia.
61:00
Harrison, what are you doing here?
61:02
Heyo, Lily. I'm not supposed you know where the Taekwondo class is. I thought it was up here.
61:07
Ah, you're not the first person who's come looking for Taekwondo recently.
61:11
Oh, have I got the time wrong?
61:12
No, I think the schedule on the community centre website needs updating. How do you mean? Well, taekwondo finished a couple of weeks ago. It's tango in here now.
61:21
Tango?
61:22
Argentine tango, to be precise.
61:24
Oh, you're joking. You know, I was looking forward to some martial arts. Oh,
61:28
You should try this. It's brilliant for coordination.
61:30
Oh, it's not really my thing. Sorry. Do you know what? A rush to finish work. I've got to change and find the right room.
61:36
Oh, I know. I had a mad dash too. But then Paul chickened out last minute, so I'm stuck on my own this week, which is horribly awkward because I barely know anyone.
61:47
And you can tell they're all super keen, so they're bound to be brilliant, unlike me.
61:53
Hang on. Didn't you and Fallon do some ballroom dancing lessons a few years back?
61:59
We did, actually. Yeah, how do you know that?
62:01
I remember her talking about it in the tea room once.
62:03
It sounded fun. That's right. We were going to my cousin's wedding in Wilms, though. Yeah, it was a posh day. Do you know what? We did all right on the dance floor. We even got a clap. Really? Yeah. A long time ago now, though, yeah.
62:16
I can't believe I made all this effort to get here and... OK, well, seeing as you have made the effort, Harrison, why not make the most of it and try a bit of Argentine tango?
62:27
What, me?
62:28
Why not?
62:29
Well, there's not many blogs, is there?
62:32
No, and that's the problem. So if any guy shows up here, the pressure's immediately on to join in.
62:38
Oh, hang on. That's why they've left the taekwondo on the schedule.
62:41
Yeah, probably, yeah. I wouldn't be surprised.
62:44
Oh, go on, Harrison. Please stay. I can't face doing this class on my own tonight.
62:50
I'm not exactly dressed for it.
62:52
It's very casual. I mean, I did help you out on Monday with that CCTV thing, didn't I?
62:58
Oh, right, calling in a favour at you.
63:00
I might be.
63:01
Well, that was work.
63:02
I still went above and beyond, didn't I?
63:04
Yeah, OK, but come on. Really?
63:08
You want me to try tangle?
63:10
Oh, I'm desperate to learn a few steps and I need a partner for tonight and you're standing right in front of me.
63:18
I'll be rubbish.
63:19
Oh, we'll both be rubbish, but we'll have a laugh, won't we? Oh, I don't know. Oh, go on, please.
63:24
Oh, all right. It doesn't look like I have any choice, does it? Thank you.
63:29
Right, hurry up then, they're starting. I've got myself into it. Come on. Come on.
63:37
I mean, everyone keeps talking about it, about what happened last week, and, well, there's nothing really left to say.
63:45
Right.
63:46
Except, I'm sorry, I said all that stuff to you and David.
63:50
Mum said she'd apologise for me, but I know I should have done it myself.
63:53
No, look, you were upset. We all were.
63:57
Mum says there's no excuse.
63:58
It was understandable, Khalil, so please don't worry about it.
64:02
OK, then, if you're sure.
64:04
Yeah.
64:05
Because I wanted to apologise to you for showing you those photos of the sheep.
64:12
Oh.
64:12
I feel absolutely awful about it. I don't know what got into me.
64:18
It must have been very shocking for you.
64:21
It was a bit.
64:22
Your mum and dad said you're having nightmares.
64:26
I was for a few days, but it's getting easier now.
64:30
I'm glad. I'm glad.
64:32
I mean, it's one of the harsh realities of sheep farming this kind of thing.
64:38
But you didn't need to see any of that at your age. It wasn't appropriate, and I shouldn't have let my emotions run away with me.
64:45
I hope you'll forgive me.
64:47
Sure.
64:49
Do you mean that?
64:52
I hope you do.
64:54
But I'd like to be sure.
64:56
Yeah. I forgive you.
64:59
Thanks, Colleen.
65:01
Appreciate it.
65:05
How are you feeling now?
65:06
Yeah, all right.
65:08
I expect you're still really sad.
65:11
Yeah, I am a bit.
65:13
I know he loved money.
65:15
I just don't understand what happened with him. Why he did all that. I don't suppose I ever will.
65:20
No one really knows why dogs like that suddenly turn. I was trying to think how we could make it up to you.
65:28
Sorry? Sorry.
65:30
I know you love animals, so how about some work experience on the farm sometime? Help out with the Herefords, maybe? They're carving in a few weeks. Would you like to get involved in that somehow? I don't know. No pressure. David and I just thought you might be interested.
65:48
They're very sweet, the Hereford calves.
65:50
Yeah, but I'll be back at school by then, drowning in homework.
65:54
Of course you will.
65:55
It's a big year for us, so I probably need to stick with my homework.
65:59
That's fine.
66:00
But if you change your mind, the offer's always open.
66:04
I don't think I will.
66:05
No?
66:06
I suppose. I always thought of farming as quite an honourable profession, in a way.
66:10
Yeah?
66:11
That's family in Pakistan. That's their life as well.
66:13
I know.
66:14
Yeah.
66:16
Raising animals to make money, it just feels wrong somehow. It does now, anyway.
66:23
Right.
66:24
Oh, wait, there's Kira.
66:26
Sorry, I need to get to Henry's now.
66:28
No problem. I... I'm glad we had a chat.
66:32
Um, we don't need to talk about it again, do we?
66:35
Not if you don't want to.
66:36
No, I don't, if that's okay.
66:38
Of course.
66:40
Have fun at Henry's.
66:41
I will. Bye then.
66:43
Bye, Khalil.
66:48
Okay, no, and round again. Oh, I'm so sorry.
66:51
No, I'm sorry. This didn't work with you that time. Do you know what? I can't... I can't get those legs flicks.
66:58
No, nor me, but we haven't tripped each other over yet, so... I'm just copying the other couple. You're picking up faster than I did, Harrison. Oh.
67:07
We haven't fully crushed each other's feet, so... Not fully, no. I thought we managed okay.
67:13
It's a bit intimate, isn't it?
67:15
I'm sorry. I should have mentioned Argentine Tango is pretty steamy, but you'd have run a mile.
67:20
I don't know about that, but I would have covered myself in deodorant first.
67:23
I'm worse. I have no time for a shower.
67:25
Oh, give over. You smell great, don't you?
67:27
Oh, good, because it's all about your breathing, apparently.
67:30
Yeah?
67:31
Yeah, that signals your intention, and then I can follow you. So breathing and connecting, that's what they keep saying.
67:37
Oh, well, no one's laughed at us yet, anyway.
67:40
Oh, OK, right, concentrate now, because they're going to show us an ocho, which is bound to be impossible.
67:46
Right, well, it's all impossible, Lily. What am I doing here?
67:49
Well, there's got to be more challenging than taekwondo. Too right. Plus, it's hurting me brain. I mean, what more could you want on a Friday night?
67:59
I have apologised, Khalil. I left you loads of messages and you blanked me.
68:04
I'm still annoyed at you for blabbing to my mum.
68:06
That was my nana's fault. She made me. And then your mum wouldn't let it go, so... How did your nana know, Cara? I was worried about you. You've seen all the blood and gut.
68:14
So you told her?
68:16
It were upsetting you. And Ruth shouldn't have done that, should she? I didn't know what to do.
68:21
Oh, you didn't have to do anything, Kira.
68:23
I've said I'm sorry. Nana reckoned you'd understand why I had to tell.
68:27
Well, she's wrong. Mum and Dad practically have me under surveillance 24-7 now. And if it's not them, it's Zainab.
68:33
Oh.
68:33
Popping into my room every five minutes, wanting me to sit with them all evening.
68:36
So, where are they now?
68:37
Well, they've gone out now.
68:39
What about Zainab?
68:40
She's working late.
68:41
So no one's watching you now?
68:42
No, but I'm having to go to Henry's for tea because they don't trust me on my own.
68:46
You're going to Henry's now?
68:47
Yeah.
68:48
Do you reckon I could come?
68:49
No, because he hasn't asked you, has he?
68:51
Well, you won't mind.
68:52
I mind.
68:53
So, how about tomorrow then? We need Summit to take our minds off Year 11, because we've only got ten days left of the holidays.
69:00
I've got to go. I'd only be late for Henry's chicken pasta.
69:03
I love chicken pasta.
69:05
Bye, Ciara.
69:06
Khalil, come on. Hey!
69:11
Oh, I tell you, these croquettes.
69:13
They are so good. And the patatas brabus. Try some. Go on.
69:17
Oh, yes.
69:19
Oh, cheers. Do you know, I've not had tapas for ages. It's such a treat.
69:24
We're lucky they had a table.
69:25
Have you got enough room there, Lily? Sorry, it's just a squeeze.
69:28
Yeah. I'm loving this place. You can literally feel the energy. And we're keeping the whole Latino theme going.
69:35
Oh, yeah, for sure. But isn't tapas more Spanish? Do they have that in Argentina?
69:40
Mm-mm. No idea, but I'd love to find out. Buenos Aires is supposed to be full of passion.
69:46
Like the tango.
69:47
Precisely. And there's their Iwazu Falls.
69:50
And there's loads of glaciers in there. Do you not mind seeing them?
69:53
Me too. There are so many places I want to see. Oh, don't worry.
69:58
You've got plenty of time.
69:59
with you no no not me what you're not old oh well thanks what you're not and you're in great shape well thanks again you are I felt really excited about having you as my partner tonight.
70:14
Yeah?
70:15
Yeah.
70:17
I don't suppose you'd consider... No, no.
70:20
Nice try, Lily, but I'm sticking with me taekwondo, thank you. I tell you what, maybe you should have a go at that.
70:26
Well, if you find a good class, maybe I will.
70:29
All right, deal.
70:30
OK. Listen, Harrison, thanks again for stepping in tonight. I don't know what I'd have done without you.
70:37
You'd have been fine.
70:38
Oh, I don't know about that.
70:41
We had a laugh, didn't we?
70:42
Yeah.
70:43
That couple behind thought they were so brilliant.
70:46
Till she knew it went flying.
70:47
Did you see him demonstrating the breathing?
70:53
Your breathing was perfect.
70:54
I'm not sure my breathing is anything to write home about.
70:57
You were better than me at some of the moves.
70:59
Well, do you know, a few of the old boring steps came back to me.
71:04
I really want to be good at tango, but it's a lot harder than I expected.
71:09
I think it's just fantastic that you want to try new stuff all the time.
71:13
You've got to get out of your comfort zone, haven't you?
71:15
I don't know, have you?
71:16
Yeah.
71:18
Challenge yourself and try new experiences. That's what it's all about.
71:23
You know I could listen to you all night.
71:26
Paul and Ben keep telling me I'm stuck at Grey Gables till I die and to stop my pathetic daydreaming.
71:33
Don't do that.
71:34
I might have to.
71:34
No, no, no. I mean it. You've got an amazing life ahead of you, Lily.
71:39
Have I?
71:39
You're such a breath of fresh air.
71:42
You're funny and you're clever and beautiful.
71:48
So are you.
71:52
Funny and clever and beautiful.
72:01
I'm sorry, that makes me want to kiss you.
72:04
Well, then stop talking and kiss me.
72:37
Thank you.
73:05
this cultural life from BBC Radio 4.
73:08
I will never go into anything so deep like that again.
73:10
The world's leading artistic figures reveal their creative influences. Disobey, disagree, disavow. I'm John Wilson, and my recent guests have included the sculptor Anish Kapoor, photographer Annie Leibovitz, the actor Kristen Scott Thomas,
73:24
It has made me good at telling stories about people who have a secret suffering.
73:29
And former Children's Laureate Frank Cottrell Boyce. If art's got one function, it's to point to what's wonderful and say, look, this is your world, it's insane.
73:38
Listen to This Cultural Life on BBC Sounds.
73:46
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