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Life in Ambridge: Comments week of 31/March/2019
Life in Ambridge: Comments week of 31/March/2019
What will FREDDIE do?
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THIS POST IS CLOSED "longer off topic comments' - Episode 8 Life Outside Ambridge Beach Chairs
I so agree with OWIAS’ last comment on the previous blog. I feel very uncomfortable whenever I hear Russ. Although on the surface he appears to be polite, friendly and helpful, to me he seems ingenuine and insincere. I find him creepy.
ReplyDeleteAlso re the previous blog: Hello and thank you to Mrs P! Yes, I am still here, though very irregularly over the past year. Hope to be able to look in more often again. Since I often look in only some time later, there is little I can contribute because most things have already been said and I can only agree with what others have written. But it is always nice for me to see all the familiar names and to read your views which are similar to mine.
A nice Sunday to all of you (Mother’s Day in Britain I think). 🌺☀️💐
Lovely to see you here too Nigella A. I only listen the day after each broadcast or late at night, so I often feel that most has already been said as well. But it’s goid to keep up with everyone’s opinions.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThe answer to what will Freddie do is......probably not a lot.
ReplyDeletePtbY. Keep the chuckles coming.
ReplyDeleteI believe I found the perfect solution to the Ambridge housing crisis precipitated by Emma and Ed leaving Grange Farm, which is for Bridge Farm to buy a caravan for Johnny.This would fit his image, be his own place where he could invite mates of both genders for parties and sleepovers, plus the adavantage of supplementary catering, laundry and cleaning services provided from home. Working back from that, Tom Natasha can squash into the room Johnny vacated at Bridge Farm, and Hannah can rent the flat above the shop.
ReplyDeleteOliver may reduce the Grange Farm rent (though I don’t see why he should) so Tom and Nat can stay at No 1 - but I think the caravan for Johnny is still a contender.
Warming to this theme, I’ve remembered that the decline of Home Fram’s strawberry trade may mean they have spare caravans, so one for Johnny would be a possibility. Maybe Adam and Jenny could start a small caravan park for long-term or holiday lets....
DeletePlanning permission would be required by Bridge farm for a caravan for permanent residence, though they would probably get away with it.
Deletemaryellen, I misread your first sentence and thought you were proposing the caravan for Tom. Actually, the more I think of it, the more I like that alternative. They could have their own place, very low rent and no trouble with awful landlady, nosy Postmistress or noisy lorry.
DeleteNot sure what Hannah would make of the idea - Tom would have to sell it to her as an 'image' exercise - living close to the land, embracing organic simplicity, that sort of thing. Oh, and holding her credit cards to ransom. Or perhaps a yurt would be more acceptable.
But give Johnny a nice warm room with a proper bed in a nice warm house. He seems to be doing most of the work at Bridge Farm at present and deserves somewhere nice to rest.
Listening again to part of Omnibus today I have now got a feeling of doom regarding Tim 😕Wondering if somehow he is setting Ed up for all fall and the house purchase will be no more, chicken factory ongoing and the Grundys will not therefore move to no 1 (but will at least remain at Grange Farm 🙏🏼 due to Oliver’s pre stated promise)
ReplyDeleteNigella, hello again. I think from the comments made about Russ most would agree that he is a freeloading slime ball. Elizabeth and Lily have become dependant on his soothing comforting voice and words, and the occasional cooked dinner, that they are unable to sense his manipulation. Unfortunately Freddie doesn't have the wit to make an assessment on the situation and should he question Russ's role in LL both his mother and sister will extol his (Russ's)wonderful virtues.
ReplyDeleteWe know wonder boy Freddie is not very bright, only a dim witted individual would sell illegal drugs in the presence of police officers, hence if given the question 2+2=? He might respond is that five tablets or seven, mate?
🙋🏻👍🏻
DeleteIn fact, Russ does more than the “occasional cooked dinner” - only recently we heard him preparing breakfast (French toast to tempt Elizabeth’s recovering appetite) and the lunch basket for the prison trip (with carefully chosen foods that Freddie wouldn’t have had inside). It’s my impression he is now doing all the family catering for Lower Loxley. I’m not sure what Lily contributes now she has her job?
Deletemaryellen. He is living rent free, and the food bill is being paid by Elizabeth? Has he been given Carte Blanche to have food deliver from Underwoods. We know he has expensive tastes in everything.
DeleteOh, even I can cook French toast - although in our shoe it's plain old 'eggy bread' - and I got married so I wouldn't need to cook ...
DeleteI'm sure we are meant to see through Russ, that's the dramatic hook. It's quite pantomimic : 'Behind you !' Lily can't see ( besotted) E. neither ( sick & needy, + no more bright than her son)
ReplyDelete😄
DeleteThere's some kind of SL coming up with Tim, for sure, but not necessarily one that spells trouble gor Ed & Emma.
ReplyDeleteNot the slightest bit interested in living arrangements with the Bridge farm gang, but like the idea of Johnny in a static home - he'd love it !
Tim - I thought he was just a nice guy, recommended by Oliver. He + Ed seem to get on well but his long absence from the fence- building was slightly suspect.
ReplyDeleteI am still thinking the same - as think he is "moonlighting" doing two jobs at once. The first is paid + invoiced for, where Ed does all the work receiving a wage for. The second is at the same time and is cash in hand.
He is using Ed but it is nothing sinister - just spots an opportunity.
Reminds me of Natasha, somehow - another opportunist on a much larger scale.
Perhaps he was a nice guy.
DeleteThen the editor remembered the First Rule of Ambridge:
At least one disaster must beset the Grundy Clan each year.
Well, of course, The House could fall through. Or Joe could pop his clogs. Or Bartleby even (black armbands for all). But why not give an extra option: Ed could up in the fall-out from dodgy odd-job man. Keep us all on tenterhooks.
*Or* he's blackmailing Oliver.
*Or* he's the son/grandson of the builders who put their lovely stuff on Brian's land and a) is trying to amke amends - constantantly thwarted by his wicked father/grandfather
or b) trying to palm off some extra nasties his family still has lying around and creating a bad smell.
Let's hope Lee and Leonard turn out OK.
I think Hannah will rent the shop flat, its just what she wants + needs.
ReplyDeleteAs for Tom + Natasha, I like others, don't really care as long as Pat + Tony don't take them in.
As for Natasha, I think she is like Alice.
ReplyDeleteBy that I mean, they are both employees, paid a normal salary, but have innovative ideas and are being used, and work pressure is being put upon them. Their reaction is very different between them though:- in that Alice knows this, but Natasha thinks she is in control and can spend, spend, spend. They are just just faces for their employees.
As such - Natasha got her Nuffield grant + support, for the work she was doing for others. It was her project, but not her business, neither then nor now.
PS Her car is a leased, company car, which affects her tax code (the HRMC letter??).
Bet I am very wrong!!!
DeleteMiriam. I suspect she is self employed and hasn't paid her tax bill.
ReplyDeleteYes agree, except Natasha was happy for Tom to read it, and he didn't list it in her continuing list of debts - but then it could be yet another TA red herring, to get us all thinking OTT.
DeleteJust a 'heads up'. My email has just received this week's Ambridge Observer. Excellently funny and obviously very recently compiled viz. the cartoon of Freddie as Mr. Toad!
ReplyDeleteBrilliant.
DeleteFreddie, is now back in Ambridge but still on licence - will PC or perhaps now the new PS, Harrison Burns, reappear, to help him?
ReplyDeleteWell, good for you, Ben, could have been less aggressive, but you're right not to be a party to something you don't believe in. No, they don't 'get it', it's all about show.
ReplyDeleteActually, strangely, felt for Freddie. Why should he pretend to tolerate Russ ? I don't suppose he'll be able to stand it at LL for long, with the two women simpering around the creep. Stay with Shula, help out at the stables, get a job. The making of the feckless boy ( maybe).
Yes, and he can go on about how supportive Alistair was when he was locked up and how much he looked forward to his letters. Make Shula start to realise what she's thrown away.
DeleteI agree with what you say about Ben,Carolyn.
ReplyDeletePip seems to think that a child being Christened is like the baby being the star performer of a one act play where she gets to wear a pretty dress and an Alice band and it doesn’t matter who the supporting characters are.
Toby has a friend who might be interested,he’ll do.
I hope they don’t go ahead with it.
In my opinion it would be wrong.
To be fair to Pip, Alan seems to think belief in Christ is pretty optional when it comes to a *Christ*ening:
Delete'Oh good, you want her baptised. Have you thought about Godparents?'
It was Pip who brought up the question of actually believing it all - then Alan seemed to brush it off as unimportant.
For goodness sake man, don't you make a point about talking through what baptism actually means before booking a date in the diary?
And, by the way Pip, you don't actually need four Godparents. If you must go ahead, stick with the three you've chosen rather than scraping the bottom of the barrel to find a fourth. Better still, have a thanksgiving, with sponsors instead of Godparents, and save a baptism until you're actually prepared to believe the promises you're making.
Here! Here! Totally agree! Just as bad as non believers wanting a church wedding as it is a good background for the photos. Nowadays I am not a churchgoer but the church should not be used in this way. Good for Ben not wanting to make empty promises.
DeleteAgree with all the dissent regarding Pip, Rosie and Christening, as well as Church weddings.
DeleteWas ashamed of my daughter having Church wedding having never attended church in her life.
However, ordained individuals have explained to me that allowing non believers access to Church weddings/ christening gives hope to embracing of faith.
MrsP, true. But if you don't tell them what that faith actually is then you've a slim chance of them embracing it!
DeleteHere, prospective baptism families have a meeting with the vicar to explore what baptism means and what promises they will be making. Then he asks them to go away and think about it for a week before deciding whether they want to go ahead. There is also the option of having a thanksgiving instead - which avoids the need to make declarations of faith you may not believe.
We also remind families that it's good to get involved in the regular life of the Church, not just turn up once for the baptism and never come again.
I wonder how often Rosie will be seen at St Stephens?
Wouldn’titHave been nice if Elizabeth could have told Freddie that it was lovely having him back and how helpful his sister had been since he’d been away.
ReplyDeleteShe could have been more gracious about Lily’s Mothering Sunday present too.
Absolutely ! On both counts. Lily has unappealing aspects, but is a shining star compared to her twin & has done all she could to support her mum. I'd like to see the therapist's notes !
DeleteHas Elizabeth even noticed how helpful Lily has been recently. She seems to take it for granted that Lily will want to spend all her time preparing for the prodigal's return. Besides, Elizabeth has got Russ to lean on when she needs a 'rock'.
DeleteI think Freddie is just as bumptious as he always was - prison doesn’t seem to have changed his attitude much. I still find his voice and manner of speaking very grating and annoying.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth is behaving atrociously as a mother of twins. I don’t know how Lily can bear to hear all this fawning over her brother whilst she is taken for granted and almost ignored.
Perhaps she will get so fed up with it that she’ll suggest she and Lover Boy go back to Manchester early - I wouldn’t blame her!
As for Ben, I greatly admire him for sticking to his guns and not agreeing to be a godfather, just for convenience sake, when he doesn’t believe in God. I was very surprised at Alan’s attitude the other evening, he seemed very
lax in his attitude to Baptism and godparents.
But then, what do I know about Christian principles and procedures?!
I've just caught up with Sunday's episode. I do agree with all the comments supporting Ben. I really didn't like the way Ruth and Pip weren't prepared to take his well argued points at all seriously. He's at an age where one is trying to work out one's religious beliefs and family really should engage in proper discussion with him and show him some respect.
ReplyDeleteI know of adolescents/adults who wanted to be baptised because they believed in it. Before, the newborns were baptised straight away in case they died with the mortal sin. Godparents were to stand in for parents if/when they died. Everyone I know has only two. Kate is a non-believer and she did it her own way on Lakey Hill - welcome to the world Phoebe.
ReplyDeleteI thought it usual to have three. Two of the same gender of the baby and one of the opposite gender. Might be just our family tradion.
DeleteThat is what happened with our family,Pierre..
DeleteMy sons were Chistened at a Church of England Church.
Good on you Ben. The christening is just an excuse for a show off party. How can that bunch of Archers, living under the same roof, not respect each other's views. I know Ben is 17yrs, but that doesn't make his beliefs any less valid than a 27yr old, which is how he sounds. Never mind Toby has a mate, that'll do nicely.
ReplyDeleteFreddie, the oracle has spoken, and confirmed Russ's status, he is definitely a 'sleaze bag'.
So Russ has an ancient mother? if he went with a present who paid for it, or did he go cap in hand with some plausible story about his reduced financial circumstances?
I suspect Freddie will eventually feel sidelined when he realises how much influence Russ has over his sister and mother.
Ev. I think you are right, Elizabeth has fallen for Russ's smooth oily voice and of course his endless cooking. However, They are closer to each other in age. Poor Lily.
Good to see The Ambridge Observer back on track - including a chuckleworthy comment from Jill about “my Leonard who I love dearly even though he has the personality of a lamp post”!
ReplyDeleteI quite like Leonard.
DeleteHe sounds as though you could have an interesting conversation with him. The problem is, he is very knowledgeable about architecture and the Archers are only interested in farming...
👍🤣
ReplyDeleteI like Leonard too.
DeleteHaving never spoken to or listened to a lamppost I cannot compare the two.
It can be very enlightening ; )
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
Delete✔️✔️✔️Old Woman.
DeleteLanJan and OldWomanInaShoe - The Ambridge Observer invites comments from readers, so you could make these points there as well if you wanted to. The website is:
Deletehttp://ambridgeobserver.blogspot.com/
I admired Ben for being honest, and saying what he felt. I wonder if Pip will now reconsider, as she also was having personal doubts.
ReplyDeleteI am thinking that Lizzie is still firmly wearing her pair of rose coloured specs.
ReplyDeleteFreddie-can do no wrong.
Lily-is being a dutiful daughter.
Russ-an added extra to help her out.
We are having a christening in Ambridge for a baby whose parents are not interested in espousing any religious beliefs, only because Pater FoulBrethen manipulated the dozy vicar to do the cajoling on his behalf. It's all about tradition, and I expect money. Toby FB will certainly be seeking out a handout of dosh from Daddy, who as I recall provided an allowance for both FB's and they weren't children,but in their late twenties. Evidently unable to stand on their two little feet.
ReplyDeleteWhat a Lark or malarkey.
I am still not sure if the christening will actually happen.
DeleteI compare this to Tom + Kirstys wedding - a last minute change of mind.
Foulbrethren - I like it ! ( biblical ring, as well)
DeleteI suppose the clergy don't fuss about actual belief because it's all money for the church, isn't it. Maybe they have a target system, like other organizations : how many weddings, funerals, christenings did you clock up this year, Reverend ?
No charge for baptisms!
DeleteAnd no target system either : )
I just love Leonard.
ReplyDeleteHe is such a calm + sensible person.
He + Jill seem to have a lovely camoraderie, and he seems to fit in well at Brookfield, alongside Ruth + David.
I hope that he is here to stay.
Agree, he's a delightful man - at last, a thoroughly likeable incomer, who's had a very different professional life from the other TA characters.
DeleteOh dear! Another soundalike and miserable to boot, poor Alistair.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth really needs to be a bit nicer to Lily.
Good to have Jazzer back.
Exactly, just when I thought we wouldn't get another soundalike. Freddie as irresponsible as ever. Yes, thank goodness for Jazzer!
DeletePerhaps Jakob suffers from the coeliac disease or is allergic to gluten.
DeleteAnd such a graceless soundalike to boot ! Abrupt to the point of rudeness. NOW, what's he hiding ?
DeleteAlistair, forget being matey, just watch that he does a decent job, & doesn't alienate the clients with his repulsive manner.
What was that about Leonard having no character?
DeletePoor Alistair.
I vote he sends Jakob out to see to Bartleby. Now that could get interesting : )
I know Elizabeth should have gone to see the therapist but I actually wonder if perhaps her day out with the revolting Freddie might well have done her more good..
ReplyDeleteJacob/Yacob is a right little charmer isn’t he?
Just what Ambridge needs.
Jazzer- what a wonderful guy + pig-man.
ReplyDeleteTom needs to be careful, as he couldn't cope without this kilted Scot. who just loves "his Gals".
Jakob is really the life and soul of the party.
ReplyDeleteHowever, Neville Lovatt want Alistair to retire and hand over full control of the Ambridge practice. So Jakob has been given instructions to be as charmless as possible until Alistair resigns out of terminal boredom.
There again, perhaps he's a flat-pack.
I think you might have a point there Old Woman.
ReplyDeleteRe flat pack - perhaps he has been assembled incorrectly!
I found Freddie more likeable tonight than I've ever heard him before. He said sorry as if he really meant it, & is simply relishing his freedom - it's only his second day. Not his fault that E. Missed the therapy session, he didn't know she cancelled that to go out with him, it was entirely Elizabeth's responsibility, most other concerns are being taken care of, but she couldn't even stick with that. Every sympathy for Lily, who's having such a raw deal, bet she's happiest at the kitchen call centre. ( or is it bathroom). Only slight hope is that Freddie's drip, drip unrelenting sniping at the ghastly Russ will eventually bear fruit with her...
ReplyDeleteYou obviously were not “in bits” in prison as we were told Freddie or you would surely not be revelling in being mmediately odious to everyone - including me. If I were Lily I should want to biff you one! Elizabeth you are not helping, your boy is not Henry’s age he is a man and needs to start acting like one 😡😡😡
ReplyDeleteYikes let’s hope the new vet is not around long, plenty of established characters I’d like to see back first but guess they would cost more and that is why they were given the chop.
I’m proper niggled with TA today aren’t I! 🤭
I hope Jacob has a better bedside manner with his patients than his surly manner with alistair.
ReplyDeleteThank goodness for jazzer, we don’t hear enough of him.
Well, that Jakob is a barrel of laughs, isn’t he?
ReplyDeleteCan’t see him enticing any Ambridge females with his sparkling repartee!
And as for Freddie - he constantly sounds as if he is high on drugs and Elizabeth is lapping it up. My heart bleeds for poor Lily.
Ditto 👏🏻
DeletePerhaps Jakob is shy? Shy people are often okay in a professional or other role where the relationship is well-defined, but less so in looser social or semi-social relationships, especially new ones. He seemed very conscientious, or a stickler for the rules, however one wants to put it, and possibly averse to change.
ReplyDeleteI wonder how Freddie is going to contribute to the domestic and business running of the establishment he referred to as ‘his’. Perhaps he could take over the family catering.
PS. Who Jakob reminds me of, is Charlie Thomas.
DeleteMaybe Jakob was promised better things when it was planned that Alastair would be desk bound and he resents Alastair’s presence.
DeletePerhaps on the quiet he is a horse whisperer.
Other Archer sites are already analysing Jakob and suggesting he is a ‘high level autisic’ who has difficulty in social situations or some such characteristics. It always amazes me that some folk seem to want to attach medical conditions to characters who behave slightly differently to the norm.
DeleteAt least he will be easy to recognise from his way of communicating, I didn’t find him a ‘sound-alike’ at all.
Could Jakob be on the autistic spectrum?
ReplyDeleteWell, there you go! Just what I said above!
DeleteThat’s interesting - it occurs to me that ‘shy’ has perhaps been used in the past to describe adult behaviour that would now be considered to be ‘on the spectrum’. On the other hand, some people are simply shy just as others are naturally hail fellow, well met. The Archers has a reputation for ducking out of the portrayal of disability in general - but publicly funded arts bodies are currently under heavy pressure to reflect the diversity within society in their productions, so the new editor may be taking this on board.
DeleteJacob. Mr. No Personality. Virtually monosyllabic, and I agree with OWiAS he is the flat pack box without contents. He won't be treating Bartelby, poor old nag, he probably doesn't practice the Corporal works of mercy, unless you have signed up to the scheme. Can't see the Grundys doing that, no money.
ReplyDeleteFreddie sounds like a six year old who genuinely says sorry, but continues to behave immaturely and has learnt nothing. Although the comment about "my house" is hopefully the opening for getting Rid of Russ. Why was Russ a grown man of 40+ still in bed, I didn't think cooking for four was that arduous?
Russ was keeping out of Freddie’s way, not wanting to spoil the rapture of his first full day back with Freddie-generated unpleasantness.
DeleteIs Bartelby still with us? I have a memory of him being superseded by Jem.
ReplyDeleteBartelby and Jem were both looking pretty ropey and misarable. Someone, it might have been Johnnie, suggested introducing them. After a shaky start they became firm friends and have been inseparable ever since.
DeleteIt was Shula who suggested curing elderly Bartleby’s depression by introducing him to young Gem. They fell in love and galloped away into the sunset together, and Bartleby hasn’t been heard of since - only Gem.
DeleteAh, thank you maryellen. Shula was my second choice of possibles.
DeleteBartleby gallopping? I thought he only ambled slowly these days.
Metaphorically.
DeleteI really disliked the way Tom spoke to Jazzer last night - like a big important boss bawling out a recalcitrant junior employee.
ReplyDeleteThey have been mates for years, for heaven’s sake and now Tom gets all heavy handed and blames Jazzer for something that was, most likely, his own fault.
I believed Jazzer when he said Tom hadn’t told him about the new field for the pigs. Tom has been so preoccupied dealing with Natasha’s little bombshells he probably did forget to inform Jazzer properly. I hope he has the grace to admit he may have been in the wrong and apologise for his outburst. I’m definitely Team Jazzer and not Team Tom. Tom needs to come down off his high horse!
Hi Archerphile. I am totally on Team Jazzer with you. Tom knows all the management Yuckspeak but his man management is non existent. Self imortance is no substitute.
ReplyDeleteOr even importance!
ReplyDeleteHey, cut Freddie some slack; would have been worse if he'd returned as a traumatised zombie, or surly like Jakob, snarly & bitter at his 'unfair' treatment.
ReplyDeleteI wondered about autistic spectrum, too, possible I guess, being totally unresponsive to Alistair's warm welcome, & focusing on getting his notes done - no interest in chit chat, mimimal response to questions. I don't think he's shy because mostly people who are do thaw out & relax a little when others are friendly & unthreatening as Alistair was. As I wrote last night, there's summat up yet to be revealed....
We were led to believe Freddie was traumatised in prison so much so that he was not really keen on visitors - yet came out of the prison gates a seemingly happy and relaxed man with no after effects...so far 🤔
ReplyDeleteRuss - lecturer fallen from grace living off his girlfriend's mother.
ReplyDeleteTim - man with hidden agenda.
Natasha - spendthrift entrepreneur.
Lee - straightforward physio/karate but paired off with troubled Helen.
Jakob - monosyllabic equine vet.
Leonard - seemingly all right as long as he draws a horse.
Spot on.
DeleteI still think that Lee + Helen will get back together. Why one may ask:-
They seem happy together and I still believe Lee has a Tale to Tell, which could be similar. In other words, they both need to talk about their pasts together.
If Helen gets herself sorted out and stops moping - she will then see through Natasha, with her payment for her scheme/scam and will help squash it.
I will now change my reading glasses, from the rose tinted ones, to my clear ones. 😎🤓
DeleteI predicted a while back, that Lee would disappear for 3 weeks, when Freddie returned. Seems might be correct for once - which doesn't happen often.
DeleteTeam Jazzer for me too, as I am a great fan.
ReplyDeleteToms' pig business would not have been so successful without him.
An extra relating to Natasha's credit/store card bills - do any of the younger Ambridge residents, such as Tom, Pip, Toby, Rex, Will, Kirsty, Chris, Alice, Kate, pay into a pension plan, apart from a workplace one, and a SSP when nearly 70? Or are they relying on inheritances, for both properties and monies, when things cannot be assumed or guaranteed?
Another of my idle thoughts.
Team Jazzer. 👍👍
ReplyDeleteVacuous Tom, 👎👎
Perfectly put, stasia.
DeleteTeam Jazzer - 🌟🌟🥇
DeleteTeam jazzer here too👍👍
DeletePracticalities: a 40 year old man living with his girlfriend and her brother in their mother's house at her expense - Russ doesn't find it a particularly unconventional arrangement, I do and so does Freddie who may not adjust and it causes Elizabeth anxiety.
ReplyDeleteThe business in the shop was stupid.
ReplyDeleteThere was no way that Susan would have left customers waiting like that.
I didn’t realise that the “mathematics tutor “ was Ruarie.
Will is another one who doesn’t allow the person at the other end of the telephone to answer the question before he replies.
Surely the idea is to know what the answer is likely to be and wait the required time so that the person could answer.
It doesn’t matter if there is silence for a few extra seconds
Agree - the shop scene was stupid.
DeleteMerely a plot device to allow Will to have a conversation with Russ, overheard by Ruaridh, about maths coaching for Mia. I agree that Susan's customer service was lacking.
DeleteHH - yes that is a good comment!
DeleteWhy is E apologizing to Russ? If Freddie knew, he would be sooooo pissed. And why is she expecting her illness to suddenly just disappear with Freddie back. Maybe now she will be convinced to continue with therapy.
ReplyDeleteNice that Ruarie is doing some good!
Yes, I liked that scene - he taught her something & made her laugh.
DeleteCommon sense advice from Russ to Elizabeth, who seemingly hasn't any of that commodity, but the man completely whitewashes the anomalous position he's in. Living off a sick woman who's son has just been released from prison & whose criminal activity he covered up because he was having an affair with his sister while she was still at the college ? Come on...
Whose, of course...
DeleteThe Stations of the Cross, around the village? "Isn't that a catholic thing" asks Elizabeth. Maybe Shula should should go to South America and do an Easter pilgrimage on her hands and knees, wearing horsehair clothes, with a crown of thorns. Mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa.
ReplyDeleteCan't see a low church vicar agreeing to that taking place, is someone going to pay Russ for his work, he certainly needs the money?
I think you're absolutely right stasia. Why on earth would a low church vicar like Alan think that the Stations of the Cross was a good idea? Has Shula lost the plot completely? Or has she been talked into the idea by smooth talking and manipulative Russ. He was suspiciously excited by the new project ie: HIS new project with Shula. presumably, coughing up the cash for it!
DeleteMore a case of the S W team not knowing their apples from their pears I would think.
Delete👍👍
DeleteI know Russ is Lily's man-friend, but I still question why he is such a valuable resident of LL.
ReplyDeleteOK. He cooks nutricious meals, but when has he paid for any of the ingredients? He is not paying his way, so why is he being so supported, also what else is he adding to LL, except as someone Lizzie feels happy talking to - but is that enough?
Don't forget - Russ refused to help out in The Orangey.
I think that now I made a decision:-
Russ needs to be sent packing
🆗🏃🏼
DeleteIt’s interesting that as far as I’m aware the only one of the 4 current residents of Lower Loxley to be contributing to the Easter holiday festivities there is Russ, who is saving the business the cost of hiring a professional by agreeing to don the dreaded bunny suit himself.
DeleteIt’s the least he can do in return for being a kept man
DeleteI don’t think Freddie is aware of this yet - and as Nigel was Mr Gorilla man etc I think he will not like Russ contributing in this way one little bit! Nor him being so in with E he may mock the age gap between L & R but I don’t think he would have liked the thought of his mum and Russ any better had that been the case....
DeleteShouldn’t Lily and Freddie be doing something in return for being kept twins?
DeleteI am confused re Shula.
ReplyDeleteShe runs her own business, known as The Stables, as a livery and also giving riding lessons etc. at the same time being a joint Master of The Hunt, which includes the health + well fare, as to the hounds.
It is obvious she is missing human contact in her life, since her divorce from Alistair and Dorothy + Dan being so absent.
Will she find another special person in her life?
Perhaps Shula and Alistair might both go online dating, bend a little of the truth and turn up on a date together, having been enticed by the exciting person they have been emailing.
DeleteAnd thus find that 'special person '
🤔 or 😂 can’t decide Mrs P but food for thought certainly....
DeleteShe doesn't need to bother there is Jacob next door. !!!!
ReplyDeleteHow many parents would say they were "babysitting" their own child? Surely the word is care, caring, to care!! Toby is blaming Rosie for his "brains" having gone to mush, sorry Tobes your brains are already mushy. Many of you actions have indicated a lack of intelligent thinking. I won't go into recalling all the mindless deeds.
ReplyDeleteWas Tom wise to share Natasha's debts with Roy, who gave the impression it was ok to owe £15000 but not £50000? Tom might still be in for another shock when discovers more debt, and his preoccupations are being directed at Jazzer, and they are not very nice.
No Tom not sensible to share his 'shocking ' news, but it is understandable, particularly since Tom is a sharer, not a keep it to myself type.
DeleteHe is of course also 'sharing' in a different way, his shock horror and frustration leading to confusion, by being mean and nasty to Jazzer. Twice this week.
I predict that within a few days, Jazzer will ' walk'.
Temporarily of course.
Yes Mrs P , I also think Jazzer will tell Tom where to stick his job, if Tom carry’s on The was he is. Not quite sure what else Jazzer could do, he’d surely not want to work at the pig factory, but could go back to being a full time milkman I suppose.
DeleteTom is not the only Bridge Farm family member with a foul temper these days. The way Helen shouted at Toby was pretty full on. Though he should really have got his facts assembled before discussing his possible scheme to buy whey from her.
Archerphile. I'm not sure Toby was intending to pay, and hadn't considered how to transport the whey. I think he thought it was a by product from making cheese and Helen would have no use for it. I got the impression from his short conversation with Kenton the Gin production was not doing very well. He then blamed having to "babysit" Rosie.
DeleteI find him nearly as feckless as Kate and they have bouncy castles in common.
In support of Lily, unlike Russ and Freddie she has a job. She is not therefore, a useless occupant of LL.
Instead of moping around being cajoled by the incumbent Russ, Elizabeth needs to develop a gradual back to work plan.
I haven’t heard that Lily is using some of her wages to pay rent or contribute to household expenses. From what she said,it sounded as if they were going towards hers and Russ’s future. The time she is spending working she is not spending helping out at Lower Loxley on either the domestic or business front. Luckily, Russ is doing that, which frees her to enjoy enjoy the office camaraderie.
DeleteMaryellen. I exoect that Lily does contribute towards food, shopping etc. She is supporting both her Mum + Freddie and working so to help out.
DeleteI would so like Freddie to don the Easter Bunny outfit.
ReplyDeleteIt is far more fitting for him to do so, than Russ who is only doing it to gain more brownie points, in the eyes of Lizzie + Lily.
Freddie needs to step up and remember that in 6 years time (or more depending on The Trustees - whoever these silent people are) he could inherit LL as per Nigels will. Lizzie will still live there, but no longer in control.
Freddie as Easter Bunny - I second that, following in Nigel's footsteps.
DeleteAs for Tom sharing, well Roy is his closest friend I think.
An extra thought. Does Tom have the right to discuss Natashas finances with anyone else as surely this should be between them, at this stage.
ReplyDeleteI accept he would like some advice, but it should be kept in the family.
Yes, Lily is working so that she and Russ can go back to Manchester, Russ has not been in paid employment since the beginning of the university year, relying on Lily's allowance. He told Lily that he gave up so much for her: resigned from his job and left his wife. He's now become a mentor to Elizabeth, echoing her therapist's words and cooking, there are catering facilities at LL and the residents would not go hungry without him. He's become involved in a community project for the church which as Elizabeth pointed out belongs to the catholic religion. Freddie has come out of prison and his options of employment are limited, he doesn't realise the financial situation of LL and as Kenton said if he did perhaps he'd move out, so that the alcohol licence can be restored.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth has not asked Lily or Freddie to contribute presumably because they are her children and she's prepared to support them, neither has she asked Russ who is living there as Lily's boyfriend and closer in age to her mother.
I realise I’m being simple-minded, but it seems clear to me that whether or not Russ is contributing any actual cash (we don’t know for sure), he is definitely contributing his labour to Lower Loxley and the family which he couldn’t do to the same extent if he had a job like Lily. Where he and Lily are concerned, I see it as a role-flipped situation with Russ as ‘house husband’ and Lily ‘going out to work’. I think that’s not unusual these days.
DeleteMaryellen, please take off your rose tinted glasses, Russ is nothing like a house husband, he is a sponger pure and simple, trying to ingratiate himself, yes he may do a little cooking, but that is to satisfy his needs. As to Lilly being the bread winner that is farcical, what right minded man of his age would give up a responsible well paid job to be kept by a 19 year old university student on a grant and doing a poorly paid job to ensure she has some money when/if she returns to university.
DeleteCowGirl, not arguing about this, but I prefer to see it my way, not rose-tinted but grey-tinted, with people neither all black or all white characters but 50 shades of grey! There are things I like about Russ which redeem, at least partially, his less attractive qualities.
DeleteContrary to what has been said, the religious practice, Stations of the Cross, is not exclusively Catholic. A meditation on the Way of the Cross, Via Dolorosa is used in many Christian churches. Number of Stations may differ. I attended a Good Friday service based on the Stations at a Free Church of Scotland one year. Nobody walked out in protest. The roof didn't fall in. There were appreciative comments at the end.
DeleteI expect St. Stephen's has a Christmas crib; St. Francis of Assisi began that tradition, so you could say it's Catholic. His friend, St. Clare is patron saint of television. They lived around 800 years ago. She started Christmas tv - so that's Catholic too. 🙂
As soon as Shula said that a christening was more than a naming ceremony and mentioned christian values I thought about her divorce and Jim and Alistair said the same. She managed to get Jakob interested in playing the organ though, that's the first thing he volunteered about himself.
ReplyDeleteAs for Freddie and his conditions, sleeping at home and asking permission for travel, what's the big deal, that means he won't be leaving LL and staying at the Stables as Shula was about to suggest.
Definitely sharper script writing these days. Shila appears lost for words when her bland & unthinking response to everything isn't matched with something equally bland & meaningless. Good for Jim. Alistair was commendably restrained, but didn't attempt to smooth her ruffled mane. Also, how crass she was with Freddie, trying to foist this Francesca on to him! She knows the full story, how blind she is to how others might feel.
ReplyDeleteThe autistic angle on Jakob gathered more evidence tonight. Shula & he might well get on very well; it's not the same but they are similarly insensitive to social appropriateness & people's feelings. Difference is that he isn't a hypocrite.
I take it that you are not suggesting Shula is also on the autistic spectrum Carolyn. I’m not very knowledgable about Autism but it seems anyone (in fiction, theatre, tv etc) who does not behave absolutely ‘normally’ is suspected of being on the autistic spectrum.
DeleteCould it not simply be that they are naturally reserved, reticent to talk about themselves, shy or even anti-social and not have a particular ‘syndrome’?
I don't think Carolyn was suggesting that Shula was Autistic Archerphile,
DeleteBut rather the similarities between these two.
However I do agree with your assement of how society today whilst aspiring to diversity in all its many forms, nevertheless seems to have difficulty in recognising what many of us would have considered slightly different to others in the past.
I suppose it's all about being on a ' spectrum '.
Wasn't suggesting that Shula is autistic, in fact, she is the opposite from the new vet, in that she is overly keen on everything being superficially pleasant, whilst he is not interested in social norms : 'Never mind tea & chit chat, I have notes to write'. His truth is in the moment, hers is in maintaining appearances, never mind what is really going on.
ReplyDeleteNoted that he opened up about organ playing because it was something he had done, it caught his interest, but answering questions about where he lives, single or not, is of no interest to him.
I thought they might get on because, for different reasons, they are linked by the organ. Shula might court him as he can play it, he might oblige as it gives him an opportunity.
As for autism, it seems likely to me that he is somewhere on that spectrum, from what we know nowadays. Hey, perhaps many of us are ! Shyness can be read, in adults particularly, as coldness ( unresponsive) or arrogance ( 'you're not worth speaking to') mistakenly, but Jakob is not hesitant about coming forward when he wants to, he just sticks to his agenda & doesn't understood why others bother with what, to him, are irrelevances.
Carolyn, my asking if you were suggesting that Shula might also be on the spectrum was made ‘very tongue in cheek’ - I should have put a suitable emoji afterwards!
DeleteOf course I didn’t think that!
My point was really, as Mrs P guessed, that anyone behaving a little differently these days is suspected of being ‘on the spectrum’ as evidenced by several posts in Archers sites over the past few days concerning Jakob.
It no longer seems possible to be just a quiet, introspective, keep-oneself-to-oneself, non-chatty, type of person any more, without people interpreting that as being an abnormality.
Perhaps some people are so used to TV soaps, plays, newspapers etc featuring larger than life characters who are willing to share their lives with everyone and want to ‘tell it like it is’ that they forget the quieter type of person who is more reserved and private. When they come across that type, they think it must be abnormal and due to a medical or personality problem.
Oh gosh! I’m getting myself into a right muddle here, but hopefully you’ll understand what I am getting at and that my comment at 10.5 last night was not meant to be taken as a serious response to your thoughts about Shula and Jakob. Phew! I‘ll shut up now! 🤭
Not muddled Archerphile. Very clear.
DeleteAgreed, & do get your point,AP, why label everything ? It becomes a game. Came across a view the other day that everyone of a certain. age or above is somewhere on the 'dementia spectrum' ( that was the gist, anyway). In a way, so what ? We lose brain cells, forget things & names etc. but it doesn't follow that it becomes pathological. Oh, gosh, interesting as this discussion is, it belongs to the other blog...thanks, Basia for getting us back on track by reminding us of the origins. Yes, it could well be that TA is into tackling yet another issue. On the other hand, Jakob could be a man with a secret. That's what I like about the current SLs, they're not so predictable - intriguing ! They're doing this with Russ but clumsily, because however sweetly reasonable & helpful he is presenting at times, we know he is a self seeking, up himself rat.
DeleteVery relevant points by both Archerphile and Carolyn that I can relate to and agree with. I also think that all of the new characters introduced over the past six months and the related SLs are very intriguing. Whether I like them or not, I am interested to find out more about them and how their stories will develop. It definitely keeps my interest in the program and my expectations on a very high level, so well done scriptwriters, keep up the good work!
DeleteAs said way up above, Russ, Tim, Natasha, Jakob: we know next to nothing about them.
DeleteLeonard is uncomplicated because of a certain age and Lee would be if not paired off with troubled Helen. Yes, makes us listening to find out more.
Any one of us on this blog and in TA could fit on the so called 'autistic spectrum', it is such a wide classification of behaviours that it presents clinicians with difficulties when making a diagnosis.
ReplyDeleteApparently it is Autistic awareness week so, I would suggest we examine our thoughts and behaviours and find a slot into which we place ourselves on the spectrum. Or, we look for an Archer character who doesn't fit on to the spectrum. A so called 'normal' person!
Can we be on the spectrum some days and not others, depending on how we got out of bed in the morning ( as my granny would have said)?
DeleteI mentioned 'autism' here because I thought the team wanted another 'issue'. I agree, these days every emotion has to be classified and catalogued, people are not allowed to be different, in the old days a child would throw a tantrum, now there's a medical term for it or several.
ReplyDeleteYears ago a child who misbehaved in class was said to be “naughty”
ReplyDeleteNowadays that child has to have a syndrome
A something something D .
He or she in my opinion has not got a disorder .
That child is naughty.
✅✅
DeleteParents like their children labelled LanJAn, it exonerates them from the fact that they have not been disciplined. Modern children are expected to sit quietly and amuse themselves, when do they go out and engage in physical activity, it is no wonder they are so active.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree it is fascinating having all these new characters in TA, with their unknown backgrounds and perhaps unpredictable futures but....
ReplyDeleteWhen are we going to hear from Lynda again, or Fallon, Harrison, Oliver and quite a few others?
Are they all off acting in other series or the theatre perhaps?
I hope they are not being quietly dropped from the programme and that we shall hear their voices, or, at least, mention of them again soon.
Perhaps it is just down to Lanjan’s 5 (6?) week theory of who is in the recording studio!
I think a new 5 week stint may have just started
ReplyDeleteWe hadn’t heard from Jim or Jazzer for a while and they are now back and Jakob is a newcomer
Perhaps it is time for the Js to shine!
If we hear Jill and Josh this evening that will make me more convinced.
....and Joe.
DeleteAll I can comment about Jakob - is that he must be a very competent Equine Vet. Why else is he working for Lovell James, whose reputation depends on such a person, unlike Alistair who seems will be constantly scrutinised.
ReplyDeleteSome people just do not have person skills, but doesn't detract from their expertise in a chosen field.
I am anti- persons being given a label, when not much is known about them.
I think I would also be very nervous visiting Ambridge for the first time.
Ps. If one gets out of bed in a grumpy mood frequently enough, and the person observing thinks your behaviour and unwillingness to interact other than by grumping is socially unacceptable, then you could find yourself on a spectrum. 🐸🤓
ReplyDeleteJim's forthright blatantly rude comments to Shula about her vows and religious beliefs might be considered as criteria for placing on a spectrum. He could also be observed to function on the high end of Asberghers syndrome, clever but lacking the necessary communication skills to be empathetic.Jim doesn't mince his words Says it how it is, even if the message is delivered in an unpleasant tone of voice and is received as hurtful by the receiver.
Jim can be diplomatic when he wants to be, I think, & empathic to an extent, for a man who's quite full of himself, but he & Shula never particularly got on, & he was simply angry. He wasn't out to please or appease her at that point !
DeleteJim is angry because Shula hurt Alistair so much and Jim was left picking up the pieces. He is right that she is a hypocrite embracing her faith yet breaking her marriage vows without just cause. She really is holier than thou and earlier looked down on those who saw a Christening as just an excuse for a party. You can’t take her kind of stance on these things and then bend the rules you should follow as a result of your beliefs to suit yourself.
DeleteAbsolutely Ev! And it seems to me that a heck of a lot of religious people like Shula seem to have no problem telling others how they should live their life yet get very touchy if you try the same thing back. I'm very, very glad I live in a secular country!
DeleteJill said much the same to Shula when S told her she was divorcing Alistair.
DeleteEvery-one has their own faith - or not - which I so respect.
ReplyDeleteI am not liking this religious aspect in TA at the moment.
Ominous last words, Pip...
ReplyDeleteThere was a lot there, I liked Tony and Johnny at his first calving.
ReplyDeleteSo both Emma and Ed lost some of their income. We were right about Tim and Ed is better off without him but Peggy will come running back no doubt.
I am not convinced, it seems to me that Jill will find out Rosie's middle name as read out in church.
I was about to write that I could hear the iintake of breath when Jill hears in Church Rosie’s middle name.
ReplyDeleteThen I thought that I ought to check the Church of England Christening Service.
Having read what is said ,there is no way that Josh should be a Godfather .
I am not sure about the other two .
There is no way that Pip and Toby should try to persuade a non believer to be a Godparent.
Alan should have told Pip and Toby more about what is expected of a Christian Godparent.
I am almost sure that my children’s godparents had not only to be baptised but also to be confirmed but my younger son who is his nephew’s Godfather hasn’t been confirmed.
I think this story line is only being done to see what Jill’s reaction will be.
Where is the Lady Vicar when we need her?
I am at a loss as to why Peggy has suddenly sacked Emma in favour of Kate.
ReplyDeleteEmma has always been on time, her work has suited Peggy (and Chris) and at no time have there been complaints. In fact, Peggy has looked forward to Ems next visit.
Why the turn around - Kate?
I guess crafty Peggy is getting Kate to do the housework in lieu of paying rent. I didn’t think it would stop at emptying the cat’s litter tray!
DeleteBecause Kate has, no doubt, whined her way into hoodwinking Peggy into believing she is capable.
ReplyDeleteAnd she may be !
But an unpleasant way to treat V.V. Loyal Emma.
The Christening seems a rushed affair all round to me! Is Grace being a middle name to do with Phil’s first wife or just because it is a very current / pretty name much liked by Pip and Toby.
ReplyDeleteSurely the full name would have been discussed by now, but of course where would be the drama in that 🙄
Will Ed keep on the right side of the law or cave in to Tim’s demand for the cash, if not as I previously stated we could be on track for trouble re the house move, especially with Emma getting the boot from Peggy as well - although I doubt that will be for long 🤭 when no doubt extra will need to be paid to clear up Kate’s humongous mess!
Agree Johnny & Tony’s scenes together quite heartwarming 👏🏻 🤗
I find it difficult to believe that Peggy would just sack Emma without some sort of remuneration or even a small gift of thanks for all the work she has done these past few years.
ReplyDeletePeggy is a wealthy woman and must know how much Emma needs her jobs to pay for the new house. I very much doubt she would not tip the staff at Fabrice’s after a hairdo. So a gift if cash in lieu of notice for Emma was the least she could do!
I found it very strange, too. Why would Peggy do that ? She & Emma always got on really well. I know the thing is to show Ed & Emma are struggling again ( yes, have to concede now that Tim is up to something very dodgy !) but Peggy wouldn't be that mean. Generous compensation at the very least, quite aside from the messy circumstances she'll now live in under a Kate regime.
DeleteTony & Johnny have such a good relationship - mutually enhancing.
Yes I think you are right Carolyn, this whole event smacks of a plot device to me -
DeleteEmma and Ed desperate for money for their deposit
Both loose one of their jobs
Ed tempted to do the dodgy job for Tim, possibly after Emma’s nagging
Ed caught doing something illegal and getting caught
Goodbye new house.
The problem is, I’m sure Peggy wouldn’t do this so it’s character personality change once again, and a rather clumsy one, in my view.
I too can’t see Peggy letting Emma go without a generous pay off.
DeleteI don’t think this is a deliberate reflection on w house Peggy’s character but thedramatineed to ramp up the junior Grundies financial plight and increase the pressure on Ed reTim’s dodgy work offer. Will he or won’t he succumb? He knows how much the new house means to Emma. Hopefully he will discuss it with her first and she will surely say no.
DeleteIt's not a very positive message (even if life can be like that). The Grundys yet again have to be seen as the bottom of the social pile however hard they try to pull themselves up by their boot strings. It would be so rewarding to see E & E make a real go of their life instead of always being portrayed as stereotypical 'losers' in the village. Lazy plotting.😕
DeleteExactly ,Burnham Beeches.
DeleteWe know Peggy would not have dismissed Emma just like that.
I suspect that she will soon realise that Kate is a useless Cleaner and Emma will get her job back.
Sadly,I don’t think we have heard the last of Tim.
Agree with all statements above.
DeleteA plot device and lazy script writing to boot.
Shame on you TA team !
Even more disappointing as it was Keri Davies this week. What bothers me is that Ed was alert to pick up on the dodgy deal but didn't realise that Tim had been grooming him for it and when he returned the piece of equipment that was to say goodbye mate and what's more he didn't mention the offer to Emma.
ReplyDeleteThe person responsible for engineering this so called Christ..ening was Redfaced Foul-Brother, and his son Toby has carried on the pretence of belief. It is nothing but the practice of upper middle class traditions. There has got to be some reason for doing so, MONEY? Does he think Dad is going to set up a sort of fund for Rosie's up keep?
ReplyDeleteI like Josh and feel saddened that he fell into the trap of joining in what is basically a farce. At least Ben held to his convictions.
I am not a religious believer but unlike Jim would respect the other persons point of view, unless those beliefs impinged on my own rights and freedoms.
They are all so two faced, just like Shula, they will make vows extolling Christianity, in a Christian church and it is all meaningless. But hey, we will await to hear the word Grace. So fitting a word in a church.
Agree wholeheartedly Stasia.
DeleteAbsolutely.
DeletePoor Peggy.
ReplyDeleteThe Lodge will Not be clean + tidy, but just revamped + organised, as per Kate's idealistic + strange ideas.
I realistically can't see Kate dusting Peggy's ornaments without re-arranging them.
Is Kate cleaning out Hilda's litter tray, as promised?
Delete