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Life in Ambridge
THIS POST IS CLOSED "longer off topic comments" - Episode 14 Life Outside Ambridge Have a seat and let's chat.
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ReplyDeletePierre les Corbeaux April 21, 2020 at 7:37 AM
Philip, you lie like a N.A.A.F.I. menu. The other 3, "Thumb up bum, mind spring loaded to neutral."
maryellen April 21, 2020 at 7:50 AM
The outstanding exception was Sean O’Connor’s real time/real life treatment of the Rob and Helen storyline which (some) listeners complained took too long and was too realistic, just as (some) listeners deplore the fact that other storyline timescales are too short and not realistic enough.
Speaking of which, what was last night’s Alastair/Kenton swap all about? I think Shula was entitled to a bit more of an explanation than Kenton’s breezy “change of plan”. Was ‘Alistair’ stuck in the lift and some furious ad libbing going on? I did think Alastair sounded strangely animated when he made the offer, but didn’t think it worth commenting on at the time.
Archerphile April 21, 2020 at 9:49 AM
I think I’m going to refrain from commenting on the Philip/Gavin/Slavery story.
Every time I put post an opinion it seems I have misunderstood the plot and/or misinterpreted comments others have made here.
So I’ll just shut up about this particular story and keep my thoughts to myself.
However, on another thread, I too couldn’t understand the sudden change of ‘interviewer’ for Shula and agreed with Kenton when he said she was too sensitive. Her strop at the end of the evening just proved him right.
She is going to have to grow a thicker skin if she is going to be a successful minister - they get an awful lot of flack these days, even physical attacks I have heard. Man up Shula!
There are gaps in this slavery storyline than exist on the London Underground 🚊. Please Mind the Gap. S.
ReplyDeleteUrrr. More.
DeleteOn realistic stories, Jack’s dementia stands out for me as realistically and sensitively handled.
ReplyDeleteArcherphile, I wouldn’t worry too much about folk disagreeing with you as we are all speculating. You were right the other day that Roy’s suspicions were aroused. I think I was one who said he would go to Philip first but I don’t think he’s going to let it rest, despite his polite attempts to reconcile. They were all being polite as invited guests of a dinner party but I think they will reflect on the inconsistencies. Also the police didn’t sound entirely convinced so if they go looking for Blake to speak to him again probably they will find him living in appalling conditions. Didn’t Philip tell the police Blake doesn’t have family? So that lie won’t hold up.
Philip told Harrison that in spite of having nice parents Blake was troubled.
DeleteThe police/hospital must have Blake's address, even if Philip placed him somewhere else.
On Jack, it helped no doubt that June Spencer had first hand experience of caring for her own husband.
DeleteDid Shula remember not standing up to Rob when he attacked a hunt saboteur? Helen jumped to Rob's defence in ignorance of full facts just what Kirsty is doing now. At least Roy brought up the subject of Blake but retreated for now. He is best man after all and now that Philip's chosen to have a stag night it's looking very uncomfortable. Harrison arrested Freddie at his own, wouldn't it be a treat if he did the same to Philip at his, but now I've said it, it'll remain wishful thinking.
ReplyDeleteI am hoping that Philip is arrested just as Kirsty walks down the aisle! What an episode that would be.
ReplyDeleteNoooo!
DeleteTo lose one bridegroom at the altar may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.
It's like Emma - to marry one Grundy son may be regarded as a misfortune; to marry both looks like carelessness....
DeleteOh wow, looking forward to that one!!
DeleteYes, oh wow, whatever they do it must be at a crucial point in the true soap style or I'll go on strike!
DeleteExactly what would Philip be arrested for? Is his relationship to Blake technically slavery under the 2015 Act? My impression was that he was sailing close to the wind, and possibly in breach of employment law, but not actually guilty of slavery.
DeleteA fine distinction, but Blake is in thrall to him, no independent decision makng possible, as if Philip were his 'owner' ? That should weigh.
DeleteI don’t think the distinction between ‘is’ and ‘as if’ is too fine for a lawyer to make!
DeleteAnd, despite what he told Harrison, Philip or Gavin *did* supply the petrol. One of their conversations suggested it wasn't the first time they'd used it either.
DeleteI haven't read through the whole act, but I should think that Blake and the others being dependent on Gavin for food doesn't look good. Why do they not have the freedom, and money, to buy their own?
I have written two posts about the Phillip /Blake / Roy storyline both of which have not posted like Archerphile. As I have to sign in every time I post I clearly forget to press publish on occasion.
ReplyDeleteAs Seasider says we are all speculating and each of us is likely to have different speculative thoughts on the subject.
For what it's worth, I feel that because Roy is a plodder he will in time be instrumental in some way in uncovering the truth. I also believe that Harrison was not convinced by Phillips explanation and will continue to plod in his own way towards the truth.
However I do also agree that this apparent discharge from hospital has been most unrealistic.
I’ve been thinking about Lindysweety, Royspreadsheet and Freddieplasticbottle and the issue of financial compensation for their physical and psychological injuries. We’ve been given information about insurance for GG but nothing for the injuries incurred to them during the explosion. Does the Wizard from Wales realise that’s Lawyers For You will be seeking to make a group claim against him?
ReplyDeleteMore like the S/Ws haven’t yet worked that one out.
Kirsty, no husband, no swanky home, it’s all gone. Everything sold to pay massive costs and Philip in jail. Hopefully.
May I add my thoughts?
ReplyDeleteI found the story of Jack and his dementia, so very realistic and wonderfully acted.
The two scenes - I remember most are:-
a) the night Jack was found in the loo. in The Bull, on a Bonfire Night, thinking it was WWII.
b) Ian finding Peggy, cleaning and sorting the kitchen out, after Jack emptied the cupboards to the extent, all the cereal was on the floor.
These are 2 episodes, which I would like to hear again - along with...
The jury debate, after Helen's trial, with Nigel Havers + Graham Seed.
What I don't want to hear again, is the night when Helen slashed a water melon, with a knife.
I am hoping that some-one will see through or cast severe doubts on Philip, very soon.
To add - why is Philip having a stag do, when only a very select few, know about the proposed Wedding, and it is meant to be a big secret.
Curious only. 😄
I guess it is to distract Kirsty from the possible fallout from the GG disaster. He even said as much ! She thinks it is for benign reasons, to turn her thoughts to happier things, but we know it is to prevent her stumbling on the truth......
Delete.
So true.
DeleteNot a whole to say about tonight, is there ? Tracy had a good time, Jolene didn't, & neither did I...
ReplyDeleteLanjan, over to you, given you might have something intelligent to say about cricket!
( only thing I'll remember is that Tracy reckons Lee is fit, in both senses. What does he see in Helen?)
Oh, & Pheobe is no match for Justin. Obviously.
ReplyDeleteShe isn't even a match for Phoebe!
DeleteCarolyn, I fell asleep.!
ReplyDeleteHaven’t a clue what went on after Jolene and Tracy started talking.
What a shame, LanJan, you missed Tracy Horrobin doing her impersonation of Attila the Hun!
DeleteWell, I've even less to say about it - BBC Sounds tells me the episode is unavailable. Perhaps Tracey has been referred to the third umpire.
ReplyDeleteBut Carolyn's post (8.04) surprises me not one bit.
Gary HELP. The same thing is happening to me as to OWIAS. I don't think I have ever been on BBC Sounds, but every time I try to listen to this evenings Archers I get something coming up saying the page is not available.
ReplyDeleteNo one can access it apparently Janice - seems someone at the BBC has forgotten to push a button!
DeleteThanks Gary. That's a relief. I thought I had lost forever my little bit of escapism.
DeleteI can't get it either. Says 'the page you are looking for cannot be found'. Please don't take away TA!
DeleteOh dear, oh dear oh dear!
ReplyDeleteIf our Cricket Club had be subjected to a ‘training’ session like that there would be mass resignations.
Total nonsense to scream and shout at them Tracy - this is supposed to be a friendly local village Cricket Club, not a parade of raw recruits for the Marines.
I’m very much afraid the Tracy I had come to like has reverted to the Tracy I couldn’t stand last summer. Stop shouting and bullying woman! Remember your new status as Grey Gables Receptionist and stop behaving like a harridan.
And Harrison, take control of your club and stop behaving like a wimp when confronted by the above mentioned! 🙄
Who believes that a mild mannered Physio can switch on instantly to be a Parade Trainer or PT instructor as per the Forces? Bloody ridiculous!
DeleteI managed to listen to it ok on the sounds app at about 9.15.
ReplyDeleteDidn’t reckon much to it mind you.
I tried BBC sounds at 7:35 & have been trying on & off all evening with no success. I even went to The Archers website that worked once before when we had this problem, but keep being told it's not available!!!???
ReplyDeleteThey must have been too ashamed and confined it to history on account of social distancing.
ReplyDeleteDistance it certainly needed. Don't know if enough exists.
DeleteI must have been lucky because I heard last nights episode on Sounds at around 9.50pm with absolutely no problems!
ReplyDeleteAnd was thus able to comment above on the appalling behaviour of super-coachTracy.
And hear yet another excruciating ‘business’ conversation between Wily Fox Justin and his innocent little prey, Phoebe.
Archerphile, I retained the old BBC web page showing the old blog and continue to catch-up. If have that on your iPad continue to use it.
DeleteWasn't Lilian in charge of the legalities of "Peggy's Prize"? How does that square with Justin (possibly) hijacking it for his own benefit? Would there be repercussions for her later down the road if there were ructions?
ReplyDelete(Of course, it goes almost without saying that the whole storyline was badly written, ill-thought out garbage.)
Gary, I may have my facts out of sync but didn’t Justin provide the Trio with the hundreds of acres they needed to complete the rewilding scheme? He also included in the contract a clause giving him 75% of any profit and some say in the silly process.
DeleteHe also suggested buying the barns as part of the rewilding and he would provide the finance. Pip was against, Rex sat on the fence and Phoebe thinks she manipulate a professional wheeler dealer.
Basically he has now has control because Peggy’s 1/2 mil doesn’t go far enough.
I could be wrong.
Frankly I've lost interest..not that I had that much to begin with.
DeleteLast night, tee hee hee, ha ha ha, Ho Ho Ho. My sides are splitting and I’m doubled up with laughter after all those one liners. 🤣😂
ReplyDeletePerhaps we were given that rubbish cricket thing whilst the S/Ws ‘WORK OUT’ the how to deal with the slavery issue. Will Philip turn out to be a philanthropic goody or scabby nasty.😡
Along with most others I wasn't able to get TA on Sounds either.
ReplyDeleteI will try again soon, otherwise will have to make sure I'm not out with the dog at 2o/clock, as I was last night at seven.
Although like Archerphile I shall not be looking forward to Tracey re emerging as a harridan. I've enjoyed her more recent character. Much nicer.
I was shocked and embarrassed last night at Lee and Tracy humiliating their friends and fellow villagers in such a way...I honestly thought it was a joke at first..what are the Sw playing at.
ReplyDeleteI actually listened on the radio last night whilst I was heating it’s only soup. I took it to be one of those nothing episodes they shove in regularly in between episodes about dark subjects.
ReplyDeleteSeasider you may well be correct but wouldn’t it have been of greater service to TA fans if it had been omitted and gone some small way towards rectifying the date anomalys.
DeleteAll I can say is - Long Live the The Archers
ReplyDeleteI don't care whether it is a good episode or not, it is just lovely to hear about Ambridge - be it good or bad.
I think that some episodes, have hurredly been rewritten, to beome slot in's.
This might expalain why some are not enjoying them, as much.
I am only guessing - 🙄
To add.
DeletePerhaps the editor + producers, did some re-writing of scenes, so that the senior members of the cast - Peggy, Jill, Brian, Lillian, Jenny - started isolatation - sooner rather than later.
I disliked intensely the cricket stuff, though have to disagree with Pierre who I think said he couldn't see how a physiotherapist would be able to run a training programme.
ReplyDeleteHowever the meeting between Phoebe and Justin was necessary as another nail in the coffin of the re wilding project.
Phoebe is like putty in Justin's malleable hands.
But surely there are 3 people in this project, not just Pheoebe. I would have thought that any meeting with Justin, should be with them all.
DeleteMaybe we are underestimating Phoebe? I think it’s quite likely.
DeleteWell, tonignt's explosive episode was antidote to last tonight.
ReplyDeleteArgh!! Oh poor, poor Robert ☹️. Could have cried for him, in fact nearly did! He can’t do right for doing wrong. That Philip.. grrrrr, he speaks with forked tongue.... 🐍
ReplyDelete😨😨😨😨
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that Robert stood up to Philip, Lynda has always treated him like a child, yet he can be an adult. He gave her confidence when she had trouble with his daughters. I just couldn't work out, did Philip push him out of the way trying to get out? And Lynda was wrong to humiliate Robert in front of those two, she must always come first, in good times and bad.
ReplyDeleteAgree Basia I do think Lynda treated Robert poorly. I do see, however where she’s coming from but there are ways to do things.
DeleteI know exactly where Robert is coming from. I have experienced it. I wanted nothing more than to give him a hug tonight. (If you read the other blog, I just want to give ANYONE a hug right now!)
ReplyDeleteHe is in so much distress - he's not a psychotherapist, he's just a scared man trying to show love and support to the woman he clearly loves so much. Cut him some slack people!
Kirsty is going to have a very, very big shock one day soon. How Philip can keep up this dual personality I don’t know. Sooner or later he is going to slip up and Kirsty will see the other side of him and be devastated.
ReplyDeleteAs for Lynda and Robert - is their marriage strong enough to survive the current impasse between ?
I can sympathise with her total frustration with his smothering and mothering but also feel rather sorry for him. He is trying to do his best, but getting it so wrong.
I can’t help wondering if they will emerge from their present situation with a stronger relationship or forced apart from the sheer inability to see each other’s needs and make allowances for each other.
A very depressing episode.
They're going to be stuck with just each other's company for long enough - better get used to it now before Covid arrives ...
DeleteI agree Archerphile 10.32 and found the episode depressing. Poor Robert is pitiful and Lynda is lashing out at him in her pain.
ReplyDeleteKirsty is so convinced that Philip is a good man, as she repeatedly says that. She is in for such a nasty shock.
The cricket episode was silly IMHO.
My sympathy (such as it is) is entirely with Lynda. Listening to Robert throwing his toys out of the pram was bad enough and watching it must have been worse. Good thing Philip managed to deflect an actual physical attack. I imagine the marriage will survive - they need each other, for different reasons - but Lynda’s respect for him has gone and his previous adoration will turn to resentment. Perhaps they will ‘disappear’.when this storyline ends.
ReplyDeleteLike you, Autumnleaves, at first I was sure Lee was joking. Suspending disbelief listening to TA is getting harder!
ReplyDeleteI feel very sorry for both Lynda and Robert.
ReplyDeleteLast night most of my sympathy was with him.
For many years , Lynda has accepted Robert’s Lindyisms so all he is doing is adding to them which she now cannot take.
I think he should take himself away for a bit.
Let her new shrieking friend take over
Poor Kirsty.
ReplyDeleteShe isn’t usually so slow on the uptake.
Would she ,as the partner of a small firm not known more about Phillip’s employees?
Would she not have visited Blake herself or at least said she would pop round to see how he was ?
Why as I said before was she not suspicious of the so called Norfolk trip?
Where were Phillip and his family living when apparently Phillip was like a father to Blake?
Why does the normally astute Kirsty not see that none of this adds up?
More to the point, why do the scriptwriters not realise she would never have let things get so far?
Sorry but Lynda had clearly told Robert of how annoying she found his smothering behaviour and disregard for her wishes. In spite of that he gave a repeat escalated performance of petulance.
ReplyDeleteAt the moment his resentment towards Philip is emotional and not evidence based. He will, of course, be justified soon. Will Lynda forget his demeaning behavior towards her?
I couldn’t quite make out exactly what happened at the end of last nights episode.
ReplyDeleteDid Robert throw a punch at Philip, or the other way round, did someone trip and fall trying to get out of the door, or did furniture get knocked over?
Robert seemed to have a complete meltdown, so unexpected in such a normally mild and controlled man.
I am somewhat surprised to find my sympathy lies slightly more with Lynda. She has had enough of his constant attention. True, he is doing his very best to be caring and protective, but it’s too much now and he needs to give Lynda some of her autonomy back and space to recover in her own way and at her own pace.
I can't see any reason to find fault with either Lynda or Robert in this distressing situation They are behaving completely in character in the way they reacting to the situation.
ReplyDeleteIt's not a marriage that would suit everyone, the unequal balance of power, but it suits their respective temperaments & has been a successful patnership for many years. Any relationship would be challenged, in one way or another, by what they are faced with, wouldn't it ?
In this case, her aggression & conviction that she always knows best is exaggerated, & likewise his innate protectiveness & sensitivity.
Perfect, harmonious behaviour would be totally unrealistic, & we'd all probably switch off in disgust !
The bottom line is that Philip (as boss) is legally responsible for Blake’s actions when the petrol was brought into the kitchen. Lynda May have accidentally caused the explosion as she entered the kitchen by opening the door and adding extra oxygen as the gas was being lit?
ReplyDeleteWe need to hear the H&SE report.
I think there is a touch of role reversal going on between Lynda and Robert. He is now infantilising her when that was the role he previously held in their relationship. He is trying to be a mature adult and failing miserably.
Robert is right, Philip is the nasty controller but histrionics will be perceived as poor Robert he has lost the plot.
Two couples whose relationships will change.
Kirsty, please let the scales fall from your eyes.
Change of topic - it’s just occurred to me that last night Philip mentioned that Gavin was looking after Blake and ‘taking him for physiotherapy’.
ReplyDeleteWhere? At he hospital? Wouldn’t the staff there be anxious to get Blake re-admitted for further treatment. Would the physiotherapist be Lee, by any chance? Could this be the route by which the whole Moss empire comes crumbling down?
Speculation, speculation!
Well, it was a change of topic, after Carolyn’s post, when I started typing!
DeleteI agree with Carolyn and Stasia, about Lynda's and Robert's relationship which is now for the drama's sake played out in front of strangers.
ReplyDeleteAs for Kirsty repeating ad nauseam: Philip is a decent man, I've known a couple and was related to one but when they went out of order it was bordering on schizophrenia and everyone else to blame. Kirsty saw what was happening to Helen, but she's too close to see her own danger.
I agree with Carolyn that neither Robert nor Lynda are to blame for struggling to deal with a very difficult situation, both trying to process their shared and separate trauma as well as dealing with the day to day tasks. Robert does need to stop making decisions for Lynda but he is still reacting with his heart and needs some emotional support himself to be able to take a step back and see that. He is trying so hard to do the right thing. Deep down Lynda knows that, but I can understand how difficult it is to bear.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised that it was Philip whom Lynda contacted as he wasn’t actually there on the day, although obviously responsible for the work. I was expecting Roy or Freddie to be called. I suppose Lynda is being pragmatic, in the way Robert is not. Perhaps something will come to light from that conversation?
DeleteI am in agreement with Carolyn at 9:13 am and Stasia at 9:26 am.
ReplyDeleteAnd it seems to me surprising that the pot has not boiled over before yesterday.
Three of the four individuals in this episode are currently living with hightened tension in their lives and doing their best to keep every new situation under control.
The fourth seems to be unrealistically unaware of the dangers hidden and lurking within the recent event at GG as well as the unquestioned evidence lurking within her own relationship with her soon to be husband.
This drama is cranking up, and Archerphiles suggestion that the physiotherapist might be Lee is intriguing and would be a very neat ( and predictable) ploy for the SWs in the enclosed and exclusive world of The Archers.
It's the Hitchcock effect...the audience are all aware of the dangers ( Philip and Gavin) and can see what's coming but are unable to warn the oblivious ( Kirsty and as yet Roy), but I have faith in Roy. Never underestimate a plodder there are already things that are niggling and he will come through in the end. It may take a while but that's ok I'm already riveted by this slowburning storyline.
ReplyDelete✔
DeleteApologies for some tenuously connected Ambridge related information for anyone missing Tamsin Greig (Debbie)'s honeyed tones and excellent acting skills, the National Theatre production of Twelfth Night, filmed live, is being streamed free this evening from 7pm at this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUDq1XzCY0NIOYVJvEMQjqw. Might mean having to catch up with tonight's edition of T.A. later on Sounds or iPlayer, but it could be a case of having a cake and eating it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the heads up Suz.
DeleteIt’s available on YouTube until 30 August so could maybe save it for a non-TA night. It depends how you feel about gender-fluid productions - I find they take time to get used to. I wonder if Lynda would sniff at the idea, or enthusiastically adopt it for her next production (if ever)?
DeleteI'm not at all sure how I feel about them either maryellen - takes a bit of getting used to. But, I'm such a fan of Ms Greig that I'll be giving it a go, and enjoying an evening at the theatre. It's such a long time since I've been able to enjoy a live theatre performance - too far for me to drive home in the dark afterwards - that I'll try anything! You're right about being able to do both that and T.A. Certainly don't want to miss any Archers episodes now that it's (hopefully) reaching a climax!
DeleteI am surprised with Kirsty.
ReplyDeleteI would have thought that living with Philip, alongside Gavin, she must have overheard something by now, be it a trivial remark or comment, to start her thinking, however slightly.
I thought better of her, as a feisty character. She seems to have had a personality change.
TA know what they are doing, well hopefully.
Kirsty will be hurt + disillusioned again.
My question is - will it be before or after The Wedding?
Either way, she will end up being heartbroken - yet again.
I have been enjoying Tamsin Greig on Sunday evenings in what might become the new Downton. And I have enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteHi all, Just heard the latest episode. So very sad that some of Robert and Lindy's finest stories are somewhat side tracked by CV. They love each other so much and dove tail. Well done cast and writers.
ReplyDeleteNot quite so keen on the backdraft of this - Philip/Gavin etc. and why does an intelligent woman choose so badly - every time!
She chose Tom twice and yet she knew immediately when Rob was wrong for Helen.
Janet, do sign in on our second anniversary blog, you'll find it when you press for more posts at the bottom of page of the ones currently showing.
DeleteWell, as they used to say at the end of those cartoon films;
ReplyDeleteThat’s All Folks!
At least until TA manages to get back to producing proper episodes, recorded in the studio and not in the actors spare bedrooms or garden sheds!
As from the next broadcast on Sunday we shall be treated to archive material for 3 weeks then the ‘new format’ for the foreseeable future.
So what is going to happen about the Moss situation? Will the wedding be postponed? How will Lynda progress & will Shula get the go ahead to train as a vicar?
Presumably the Editor already knows how theses stories are going to end but will we hear it piecemeal (by people just about it in their lockdown sheds) or will the previously planned episodes be frozen in aspic until they are allowed to record in the studio again as normal?
´just chatting about’
DeleteI think we’ve got one more week of episodes before the 3 weeks of archive episodes, but probably not enough time to tie up the current main story line, frustrating as I have got quite engrossed.
ReplyDeleteI do hope you are right KP and I have miscalculated. I was convinced it was my littlest grandsons 8th birthday yesterday until my daughter pointed out it is next week, not this.
DeleteAll the days seem the same now!
It was so pleasant to have Robert and Lynda ending tonight's episode with a happy tone and agreement between them. Good to hear Jim too with his sensible thoughts towards Robert's doubts about what to do. He is a good friend to have.
ReplyDeleteJim’s friendship with Christine seems to have ground to a halt. He was doing the crossword solo yesterday, when he could have driven to The Laurels to do it with her (perhaps she is permanently absorbed in the activities programme there), Come to think of it, I don’t remember them meeting up when Christine was at The Lodge. Maybe he doesn’t get on with Peggy - I can well imagine a personality clash there!
ReplyDeleteYes Dear, it would be a duel to see who could patronise each other more.
DeleteMy winner would be Jim.
Did Jim the sage, a man of wisdom and learning, encourage Robert a man of rectitude, to lie to Bossy Mossy?
ReplyDeleteIf Robert apologised for his behaviour, minus the accusation of culpability, for damaging his Lindy then that is Ok. In my book.
But did Robert tell Lynda a lie?
I think you might be right, Stasia. I wasn’t convinced that Robert went to see Philip.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone remember when the secret wedding is supposed to take place? If Philip is wanting his stag do on Monday (whenever that is in Ambridge time) then maybe it’s quite soon. Maybe this story line could come to a head in this last week of pre virus recordings. The police are on the case and it’s just possible (not very likely I know) that the hospital noticed something and shared their concerns.
If the wedding doesn't happen this week then it will have to be postponed indefinitely. As soon as Ambridge emerges from its Covid-free bubble its residents will have to comply with the current UK ban on weddings.
DeleteIf it does happen this week, I suppose Kirsty could apply for a retrospective annulment on the grounds the marriage couldn't legally have happened.
I wasn't convinced either Seasider.
ReplyDeleteI didn't even try to calculate the number of weeks or days of actual studio recording we had left, but my instincts about the lapse of time is pretty sound and I would have thought we had another week.
I am engrossed by this current storyline, mostly by the aspect of how Phillip Moss can continue his very clever manipulation of the truth and hope therefore that we do get some light on the situation prior to the end of the studio recordings.
From Sunday 26 April to Thursday 30 April we have five episodes left which could be or not filled to the brim and overflowing. In Ambridge time it will be Mon-Fri, so the stag night is next.
ReplyDeleteI have no idea what day it is, in the real World, let alone what it is in TA and Ambridge.
ReplyDeleteI am just going with the flow, as to what the editor + producers give me to listen to.
There are many questions needing answers, but I don't think that this will happen soon.
I could be, so wrong..😂
I don't think I want to hear Philip's stag night - as can he still be trusted.
ReplyDeleteThis inferes, that The Wedding will actually happen soon after.
When is it??
It must be, before TA goes into "lockdown".
DeleteWhat another Mess!
I've done it again. Getting settled for a listen -- - - Drat! I do hope Gavin and Philip get sorted before the lockdown. I think l am even more incensed about Blake than l was about Helen. (sorry if l sound uncaring)
ReplyDeleteI agree, Old Fogey. She had a supportive family to fall back on, Blake has nothing & nobody, as far as we know.
DeleteSorry Basia but do not see how to get to an anniversary blog.😃
ReplyDeleteHello, Janet😊 If you scroll down the opening page, showing the two current blogs & those now closed, it says 'more posts' at the end, click on that, & there you'll see the 2nd anniversary blog.
DeleteAnd JANET _ there is a picture of Leonado de Caprio in a DJ holding a champagne glass
ReplyDeleteIts dated 7th April
We want you to make a comment so that we know, more or less how many of us we are.
Well if the wedding isn’t this week it will be postponed, as someone said, sorry I forget who, because of Covid, and that will be a blessing for Kirsty (the postponement of course). I still think it’s tough she has to go through yet another heartbreak. She moved back to Ambridge after Tom, just for this. (I thought that was implausible at the time although I was glad she did as I liked her character).
ReplyDeleteNot just for another heartbreak but Tom's baby not to be as well.
DeleteI liked Kirsty and was pleased she returned to Ambridge to look everyone in the face again.
ReplyDeleteBut I feel differently now about her as a character who seems to be doomed to failure in any relationship due to her choice of partner, and I'm holding her to blame for doing so.
Of course it's the SWs or the producer who are condemning Kirsty to make such choices, but I wonder what is behind that policy.
Does there always have to be a character who never ever gets anything right in life.
And is that a ploy to keep us intrigued and on our toes ?
Can't find it in me to blame her, Mrs P. Many of us were fooled by Philip, or prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt, until recent revelations, & he hasn't put a foot wrong where Kirsty is concerned throughout their relationship. ( Ok, so he hunts, but she seemed to get past that & she certainly didn't rush into actually living with the man)
DeleteI'm just hoping that between them, Roy & Harrison will unmask the man, preferably before we drift off into episodes of yesteryear !
If, later, should even Ambridge be in lockdown, when Kirsty is licking her wounds at Roy's place, having run wailing from the Beechwood house, the pair will wake up to their natural affinity....not so implausible, I expect we all know of cases where long term friends have morphed into lovers.
Sorry Carolyn but it seems very unlikely that the Moss Builders will be exposed in the near future.
DeleteThe first of the old episodes is due to be broadcast on May 3rd as per BBC website under Catch Up.
The first five revived episodes apparently go under a sub heading 'Four Weddings and a Funeral.' Absolutely dire and I won't be listening to any of them.
It does sound dire, doesn't it ! Still, I'll probably tune in out of curiosity, just to hear whose weddings & which funeral...
DeleteNo, Spicy, I don't expect the 2 Mosses will be marched off air in handcuffs by next Thursday, alas, satisfying though that would be.....
Ambridge still enthralls me, (as it always will), with both - its Life and, the very many mixed relationships going on.
ReplyDeleteWhatever happens, I will totally accept this, and understand that S/L's will have been changed and altered, to suit this troubled time.
Of course the rational me doesn't blame Kirsty, Carolyn, but our feelings are not always rational are they.
ReplyDeleteShe seems to have a knack of believing in men who turn out to be something not very worthy. And as I said it's how she is written, not her fault at all really.
Mrs P - your last sentence exonerates everyone in Ambridge.from current villains Philip and Gavin Moss down to Susan, Pip, Kate, Jim, Shula, Russ and others we find family with.. I think it would be a good screen saver.
ReplyDeletePS. Logilcally, that applies to characters’ good qualities as well - no credit to them,, simply the way the scriptwriters portrayed them.
DeleteBy the way, peeps, the BBC’s TA website has a handy calendar showing which day it is in Ambridge (up to 30 April) and a list of the archive episodes coming up, plus a glimpse of the actors we are going to hear recording in their homes (special message to Mistral - includes Ed Grundy!)
I bet the Philip actor welcomed the chance to vary the bland character with a sinister side! 👺😈👿🥴
ReplyDeletePersonally I shall enjoy re-listening to old episodes and hearing some of the departed actors once again. ( as long as they don’t include you-know-who!)
ReplyDeleteIt would have been nice to have these running as an extra series rather than having to replace the current storylines, but I suppose it can’t be helped in the circumstances.
Like Miriam, I am such an Archers Addict I shall just be grateful for whatever crumbs can fall from the Archers producers table and just wait for normality to return.
table and look forward to when things
Sorry about repeated sentence - it what comes of trying to type comments on my tiny iPod where you can’t see the whole page and it keeps jumping up the page. Very frustrating. Must stick to proper device in future!
DeleteThere's a couple of lovely interviews on YouTube with tracy horrobin and the lovely Emerald (what a beautiful name) O'Hanrohan (Emmer Grundy).
ReplyDeleteThey're called my first day on the set.
Emma O’Hanrohan, is quite active in the RC church and has done a lot of work with various religious orders. Unlike Emma, she obviously thinks of other people and their plight in the world.
DeleteI often wonder if she has an older sister Diamond and a younger Ruby or Garnet ?
ReplyDeleteMuch as I loathed Matt Crawford (the nastiest piece of work Ambridge has ever known) I would like to hear him being run over by Nic Grundy again, this time with the benefit of hindsight. Remember the Phantom Footsteps!
ReplyDeleteOh God! Those bloody footsteps! Would be great to have that argument settled once and for all....
DeleteIndeed GG, but they definitely weren't there on the excerpts, nor on the omnibus.
DeleteThat leaves the tantalising possibility that they were in the original broadcast but edited from the omnibus (Sunday listeners have remarked on slight cuts in previous episodes).
IF they played the original broadcast then the question would be resolved. Later versions could still leave the question open ...(Ducks for cover!)
I'd rather have Matt Crawford any day over Justin Elliott.
DeleteYes Autumnleaves, but this is in principle only.
DeleteMatt was a much more loveable rogue, didn't cause the death of an elderly man, who resided in an Ameside property - unless my memories are wrong, and probably not for the 1st time. 😂
...didn't he cause the death...
DeleteI missed a vital word out.
I classify the phantom footsteps with Rob’s faked DNA test, murder and silage burial of migrant worker, Ian being Henry’s biological father, and other blog stories that subsequent episodes conclusively proved tone wrong.
DeleteJustin and Matt are not in the same league. Justin has not caused anyone’s death, which Matt has twice done, nor has he done time like Matt. And heis a man who is kind to toads!
They were in the original episode in the evening and they must have been edited out, not phantom at all.
DeleteMy only hope is that, the repeated episodes, don't go too far back.
ReplyDeleteI realise that TA is long running, but I personally feel that the earlier episodes, though memorable, will not represent life as it is now.
I would like to hear things:-Lizzie + "Mr. Snowy",
Emma, Will + Ed as teenagers
Kirsty + Jazzer(?) destroying the GM crops
Joe + Bert, at the Produce Show
Carolyn + Oliver together at Grange Farm.
Mike + Vicky with Bethany.
What I don't want to hear is the demise of anyone, eg Freda, Nigel, Betty, Matt, Rob..
There is enough sadness around at the moment, without hearing it in my TA nightly fix.
These are purely, my individual thoughts.
What episodes would others like to hear again?
Sorry Gary - I have overstepped the boundary...😣
DeleteThink it was Kirsty and Tom who destroyed the gm crops?
ReplyDeleteYou are probably so right.
DeleteI can't recall it clearly..
I would like to hear again, so that I can remember it with improved clarity, the series of episodes when Will, Ed, and either Debby or the younger Aldridge sisters broke into a semi derelict( as I remember it) old building. This storyline bugs me to this day and I would like it to be resolved in my memory.
ReplyDeleteI don't remember that at all. Sounds fascinating.
DeleteIt was Kirsty and Tom, yes Ev.
ReplyDeleteCan anyone remember what brought Kirsty to Ambridge in the first place ?
I can't.
Matt warned Paul off and he subsequently died of heart failure.
ReplyDeleteI think that Year 7 pupils were asked to write an episode of The Archers.
ReplyDeleteThe pupil who wrote the one with the lowest marks was the writer of tonight’s episode.
Lol
ReplyDeleteHandy with a cricket bat eh Gav!! We know what you’ve done with one of those before. Just hope he hasn’t got one hidden about his person tonight cos Roy is gonna see how handy he is if he has.
🤕🏏
If nothing happens to Roy later this evening in that road with poor street lighting, I shall be speechless.
ReplyDeleteSo, Gav’s going to sort Roy out is he?
ReplyDeleteI dread to think what that means 😳
I feel uneasy about Roy's situation, too. I went off Gavin completely after he visited Blake in hospital. Maybe Roy will surprise us (and Gavin) by sorting *him* out.
DeleteMatt sent his henchmen to duff up Paul (his half brother), which was the direct cause of Paul’s heart failure. How “lovable’ is that? Justin’s motives may be questionable but his methods are impeccable.
ReplyDeleteSince Roy's apologised for 'getting the wrong end of the stick' why would Gavin feel the need to inflict some GBH on him? Heading up a dark alley alone with Gavin would seem like a bad idea but if Gavin does set on Roy, what will he give as his reason? It would only serve to make Roy suspicious all over again but Gavin's not the sharpest tool in the box is he and wouldn't have thought it through.
ReplyDelete'
Maryellen, 8.45.
DeleteThank you, I had already spotted it!
What a lot of shirts he has.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWhat a bloody awful episode. I award the S/W nil points. She/he has definitely not improved since entering that competition Lanjan mentioned.
ReplyDeleteQuite ! Last night was a riotous playground session, except it was adults getting drunk in the pub, instead of boys getting overexcited & loud on the tarmac.
DeletePrompted by Maryellen’s post yesterday about photos on the official website of actors recording at home : poor old ‘David’ looks terribly cramped under his stairs with a duvet hanging up and little electric heater at his feet. Not sure what Health & Safety would have to say about that!
ReplyDeleteThe others seem to be recording in their bedrooms amidst racks of clothes.
Good on them - determined to keep TA going, even in uncomfortable surroundings.
Oh, and that’s not *my* Tracy - my Tracy definitely has dark untidy hair and too much make-up!
Isn't Harrison a looker.
DeleteIf only I were 10 years younger 😂😂😂
I wonder what Ed's spot is going to be called.
"Ironing with Ed"?
Interesting, this JE/Crawford differences of opinion....
ReplyDeleteAs personalities, Crawford was more entertaining to listen to, like or loathe him ( I'm in the latter camp) & his stories were more dramatically engaging, whereas JE, just as much a 'type' as the other man, could be received as boring & staid - not so dramatically riveting.
Morally assessed, no contest (in my view) : Crawford was responsible, for the deaths of 2 people, even though he didn't personally murder them, whereas JE is a hard headed businessman, who tricks, manipulates & is not above engaging in shifty dealings.
Oh, conclusion being that if one bases likes & dislikes on personality, that's a matter of personal taste; if based on a moral spectrum, JE wins, as the less depraved character
DeleteTotally agree with Carolyn about Crawford. People seem to forget that as he had he 'pleasant' moments you forget the utter ruthlessness of his business dealings. As for Elliot we know he's not above lying and breaking the law (the blackmailing of Stephan etc) but I don't think he's caused anyone's death yet?
ReplyDeleteWill we be looking, in five years time, to comparing Phillip Moss with these two nasty characters?
I also agree with Anneveggie that there is no reason for Gavin to threaten Roy in any way. Why would he when he has to live next door (relatively) to these people, why would he give the game away?
It just doesn't make sense.
No, Spicy, it doesn’t make sense. But Gavin is hot headed and not very bright. He is the sort to take action and think about it afterwards. He needs his Dad to reign him in, and his Dad was not in that alleyway last night!
DeletePrecisely Archerphile
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts exactly Archerphile, Gavin is certainly not the sharpest tool in the box - what on earth would there to be gained from threatening Roy? Not a thing and Philip would be furious. On the other hand.. it could be game over. Good.
DeleteRe the JE/Crawford debate: I found Crawford a more interesting character than JE, although all that Pussycat and Tiger stuff was enough to make me gag.
ReplyDelete👍
DeleteMrs P -I think Kate ran a gang when a young teenager and locked William Grundy somehow in Blossom Hill Cottage overnight. She had got hold of the keys from her Grandmother, Peggy. It was after Peggy married Jack Woolley and they lived at Grey Gables so BHC was empty.
ReplyDeleteNext time son comes upstairs I'll ask him to find my Archers Encyclopedia. 😃
Sorry to diminish all hopes but fb says all 'archived' episodes to be broadcast are all post 2000.
ReplyDeleteI do hope not!!!
I wouldn't mind this - as it spans 20 years, after all.
DeleteI won't be surprised, just how much I have forgotten.
Let's think - 20 years, 52 weeks a year, 5 or 6 episodes a week, so that makes a minimum of 5200 episodes to choose from.
My maths could be wrong, as I don't have enough fingers + toes.
I have a thought - another wierd one - so sorry in advance.
ReplyDeleteI think that the S/W's are dragging out the Philip/Kirsty/Gav S/L out,(Wedding, Gang Master, Negligence etc) in order that it is not resolved, before they go off air.
This will the longest "cliffhanger" in the TA history.
I could be so wrong though, which might well be proven by Friday.
I was very disappointed when I met Kim? Who played Matt Crawford. In reality he is small and has a squeaky sort of voice and was not very engaging. Felicity Finch was warm and extremely friendly and willing to spend time talking about the BBC blog. Which I don’t miss. Ruthy gave us a much better and kinder format in which to have our discussions.
ReplyDeleteSo we are going to be subjected to old episodes arranged thematically. Will our discussion take the route of compare and contrast the S/Ls and the development of characters from then up to now?
Archerphile, Tracy is exactly how I imagined her. Blond, excitable and talkative. Over the top.
I love her.
How I wish I had an Archers Encyclopedia.
ReplyDeleteAll I have is a Jennifer Aldridge cookbook - but this is fascinating, as it has recipes from Clarrie, Jean-Paul, Nigel, and Jill
There are also recipes from Pat + Home Farm, plus Freda Fry.
This is different type of Ambridge/TA history, but in a very different way, but still fascinating.
Miriam. When we are back to some normality go out and tweak the charity shops. I collected all my books by wandering in and out of these shops. Oxfam is usually good because all their books are arranged alphabetically and in themes. The Archers will be under Film and TV.
DeleteHave just had an email exchange with Keri Davies (Archers scriptwriter) and he seems pretty certain that there WERE footsteps in the Matt & Nic episode & that they were definitely NOT edited out for the omnibus...
ReplyDelete(Sorry to reignite this discussion but it's been driving me bananas ever since!)
Well Done Gary..😘
DeletePerhaps we will hear this episode again, as I have no idea about the footsteps.
It is great you are in correspondance with Keri Davies, a true feather in your cap, as the saying goes.
What I want to know is - what was in Matt's suitcases??
This has always intrigued me..but will never be known. 😣
I have often wondered about them too Miriam - were they last heard of in one of the rooms at The Bull?
DeleteYes, there were footsteps which were not edited out. They were Matt’s before his collision with Nic Grundy’s car. The phantom footsteps were allegedly heard after the collision and listeners who said they heard them (other listeners never heard them) were unsure whether they were male or female, supposed they belonged to the driver (apparently heard walking from the car but not back to it), or to a third party who happened by, or to a deer wearing boots.
Delete(Sorry, I made the last bit up, it’s the lockdown effect!)
Gary. Make yourself a cocktail and relax. The footsteps were definitely there, I heard them myself.
DeleteSo did I !
DeleteSpicey thanks for the memory.
Yes it was Kate and she did lock him in.
I just couldn't remember all of it or the sequence, but do clearly remember the event.
And I did.
DeleteMe too.
DeleteNot just the footsteps fellow sleuths..what was in the suitcase that was so heavy to carry....so many unanswered questions.
ReplyDeleteI am with you, re the heavy suitcases.
DeleteNic Grundy’s story disproved the phantom footsteps. What people heard were Matt’s footsteps before the collision.
ReplyDeleteAnd speaking of unscrupulous villains, Nelson Gabriel seems to have been Ambridge’s first example, fleeced Paggy’s first Jack of all his money, attempted to seduce his two daughters (not simultaneously), was the boss of a criminal gang and got tried for armed robbery, in and out of debt, with cheques bouncing at The Bull and Grey Gables - a thoroughly unsavoury character.
WOW.
DeleteThat sounds fascinating, but it has to be before I became an Archers regular.
This I think, was in the early 80's.. but not sure exactly.
My Archers Moment happened, when 10 of us shared a cottage, on a weeks holiday - a late Sunday morning, drinking coffee, eating toast + marmalade, trying to get over the Saturday night before, with The Archers Omnibus on the radio.
I was hooked!
Maryellen, Keri Davis said that the footsteps were heard AFTER Matt was knocked down - and that that was when Matt spluttered "You!" to the mystery driver.
DeleteSo how come I and others didn’t hear them on the original airing and Nic Grundy’s story didn’t bear them out???
DeleteI have absolutely no idea maryellen. I am just passing on what someone else said. To be
Deleteclear, I have no dog in this fight - only trying to get to the bottom of the mystery. I haven't got the faintest idea of what actually happened. Memory is a funny old thing - for ALL of us.
No comments about tonight’s episode?
ReplyDeleteWell, I’ll perhaps start them off by commenting about Harrisons’s refusal to have Gavin in the Cricket Club - despite him apparently being a good player.
He must have grave suspicions about Gavin to turn down a promising team member for the minor reason that he is only ‘temporarily’ living in the village.
I think he he knows more about the Moss business than he is letting on at present, so hopefully there might be developments and an arrest soon.
Yes I wondered about Harrison's refusal to have Gavin on the team. Hopefully you are correct Archerphile and he has other reasons to do this.
DeleteSorry if this is nitpicky but I found Pip's constant "Rosie stop doing that" whilst talking to Adam irritating.
A bit of a ho-hum episode.
My thoughts precisely Archerphile.
ReplyDeleteHis refusal may have puzzled Tracy, but it didn't puzzle me.
It was clear in the interview, when Harrison started in a professional but pleasant manner, & ended on a chill note, that he wasn't happy about Philip's responses. So, as a person under suspicion & no doubt being investigated, obviously he couldn't have the son who works for the business & was supposedly supervising Blake, in the team.
ReplyDeleteI guess 'only a temporary resident' was the best he could come up with on the spur of the moment !
I liked the sisterly squabbling & making up between Susan & Tracy ( funnily enough, good to hear Susan's voice again !) but then was filled with misgivings about Emma....strikes me, the way is being paved for her to leave TA, because Emerald O'Halloran is in demand elsewhere. Good luck to her, she deserves it, but.....So, she moves away, outside Ambridge, we hear about her & the children occasionally from Ed, who visits &, just possibly, in a couple of years or more, a different actor returns in the role if they want to revive the character at all.
ReplyDeleteI do hope I'm wrong, as most of us will miss her, as will Ambridge parish council ! (Slightly ashamed to say that, given Ms. O'Halloran has every right to expand her CV....)
.
Carolyn, you may have a point there, I hadn’t thought of that. I will really miss her as well. I heard Emerald reading a short story on radio 4 a few weeks ago and she has a beautiful voice. I had to work hard to hear Emma in there.
ReplyDeleteAgree about Gavin and Harrison and continue to hope there’s an arrest soon, especially as we now know the wedding is due in the next few days.
Rosie and Pip ....🙄
I was intrigued about three objects last night: Roy's missing phone, Gavin's energy drink for him and the wok which Tracy tried to appropriate. There's no connection and Tracy owned up but I'm suspicious about the phone an a good will gesture.
ReplyDelete