Miriam - November 17, 2021 at 4:27 PM I am still not sure about Natasha. However, the scene between her + Fallon though, was far too intense as not to make me think again...
MrsP Ambridge - November 17, 2021 at 11:01 PM As agreed earlier with Pierre, I am still of the opinion that Natasha is playing the game of turning the tables on the Bridge Farm family idea of bringing her into the fold. A place she does not want to go. She ain't no sheep, Natasha ! If I, and others are right, she is making a thoroughly good job of making sure they never entertain the idea again. However, like Miriam I'm not altogether sure ...... of Natasha, her motivation, or my opinion. I do agree with Ev, N is ruthless. She does see the other view, and how her advantage creates a disadvantage for the other party, yet still goes ahead with her plan, regardless of the hurt and damage that will be caused. That surely Maryellen, is ruthlessness at its most basic. It may also be professional from your POV, but again like Ev, I do not see such behaviour as ethical, and therefore cannot be described as professional. I don't think Pat Archer saw Natasha's behaviour as ethical either this evening, although perhaps for a different reason.
I do not feel either that Fallon was over reacting. Fallon has always shown considerable gravity in all she says and does. To be emotional when given the brutal news from N, without any warning letter from her landlords, that she is about to be thrown out of the business premises that she has worked so hard to create, seems to me to be entirely reasonable. What's more, the tea rooms at Bridge Farm has brought increased business to the Bridge Farm Shop and Pat, and I would have thought Helen too, will certainly be aware of the damage to their customer base should it disappear.
I think also it is important to remember that this is a rural community we are discussing here, not big city employment rights or business practices.
maryellen - November 18, 2021 at 9:31 AM Mrs P - I don’t think there’s any point in discussing this further because we are not going to change each other’s minds. I’ve no evidence that Natasha is ruthless, but I do have evidence to the contrary., so I’m sticking with that. I certainly do not associate Fallon with gravity,, as I’ve witnessed her being volatile and emotional on various occasions - and loud with it! Where Pat is concerned, I think it’s a female version of the ‘old bull, young bull’ scenario. I feel Bridge Farm aren’t coming out of this well.
Anneveggie - November 17, 2021 at 10:40 PM Maybe the argument between Pat and Natasha will put an end to the new business venue plan which would really please Fallon. I thought she was quite understandably upset and angered over Natasha's plans. I'm so pleased that Clarrie voiced her feelings at Mia's prompting and will now have the celebration that she wants.
Miriam - November 18, 2021 at 4:09 PM And to think that I posted a while ago, that I was missing Tom + Natasha. I now withdraw that feeling..as I am not liking the Bridge Farm upset and arguements, at all. Home Farm seems like a quiet idyll in comparison, with the now silent Stella, in charge.
Above is how I think Fallon sees the tea room, but in reality I always think of it as a depressing place for some reason. I don't know why, I just have a feeling that it looks a bit tired and tatty and not quite how she thinks it looks.
Don't think I've ever imagined how the tea room looks, but that picture Gary is very busy, and a bit too much to take in if having tea.
I do hope that the battle of the tearoom is won by Fallon and perhaps Pat. It is a good meeting place for Ambridge residents as an alternative to The Bull.
Love the chintzy picture Gary, especially the mismatching flowery china which to me means genuine vintage and having been bought from sales and charity shops.
Fallon started.to back down when financial compensation, ie. rent reduction, was mentioned. I don’t think Pat was against the idea, more that Natasha suggested it to Fallon without consulting Bridge Farm first. Rather like Tom suggesting Natasha should move her business there to his family without consulting Natasha first.
I thought Pat was furious about the idea when she heard Natasha was proposing to erect an ugly pre-fabricated building on the old Orchard, which Pat didn’t want to spoil the ambiance of the area. However, Natasha might be able to locate her building and business over at Sawyer’s farm where Tom has his pork processed. That was surely be an ideal solution. Just the other side of the village (according to my map); in the same area that Tom has business dealings so they could go there together; away from Pat/Helen/Tony’s interference yet saving on the long commute - sounds perfect to me. But then there is the question of where she is to get staff from. Is she expecting the current staff to re-locate, because Tom has been bemoaning the lack of labour locally?
GG. Lovely photo. My idea of the tea room, is tables with checked table clothes, up-cycled side-boards and dressers, showing pottery etc. and just comfortable and welcoming. This is due to Emma + Fallon, both as themselves and what they provide. Natasha's plans will ruin this ambiance, and might ruin the footfall, of both regulars and those visiting the Bridge Farm Shop, to it's premises. IMO - a trip to a farm shop, nearly always includes a coffee + cake in the nearby cafe. So would the shop, also suffer??
Thank you for the picture Gary but that tearoom is way too crowded for my taste. It's overdone with so much stuff crammed in. I imagine Fallon's tearoom to be much less cluttered with plain tablecloths, white china, all clean and functional. I hope she can survive as the tearoom has become a pleasant venue for Ambridge folk.
Speaking personally, I choose a tearoom for the quality of its cake and convenience of its location rather than its external view.or interior decor.. I can’t see how they would change.
It strikes me that Tony and Pat are heading for that retirement bungalow, possibly taking Pat’s hobby goats with them, which would free up space. With Tom and Natasha in the farmhouse, it would be practical for Summer Orchard to be located with the other enterprises at Bridge Farm, including Helen’s ‘factory’/‘food processing unit’.
PS. The answer is staring me in the face! Bert’s bungalow for Tony and Pat’s retirement! Rex has virtually written himself out of it (even if he can afford it) by saying he wants to move on. Does that mean Neil’s pigs which mysteriously became Rex’s, will revert to Neil and occupy Oe of Neil’s untended acres? Or could the Carters use some of that land to build a tearoom for Emma to run with or without Fallon? Or would a tearoom be more profitable if located near the village shop?
I would just love for Rex to stay on, both in The Bungalow and with the re-wilding scheme. It showed last week, just how proud he is with this, when he was so disappointed his Dad didn't see it but it became apparant, when he took Kirsty on a visit. Let Rex stay, please.
For what it's worth, I so really enjoyed the Omnibus this morning. My only concern is the Cider Shed. How can it be tranformed so quickly, from pressing apples for the cider, removing the pheasants, cleaning and fumigating it, in such a short time.
I am returning to my once a week TA listen, that is only the Omnibus. It just makes so much more sense, with its seamless continuity and flow of so many S/L's.
Adam as Bridge Farm Manager?. If so, he will sort Natasha out. After Alice, then he should have the experience to smooth oil on troubled waters, with Bridge Farm.
I still wonder how "When Stella met Alice" went. Perhaps, it is still to happen.
Really enjoyed tonight’s episode 💘 🎊 🍾. I thought Shula was about to be called upon at one point but Oliver just right as a stand in “vicar” Loved how Joe hand Nic were woven in, maybe too mushy for some but a lovely change from shouting and arguing for me.
Lady R - I enjoyed the lack of shouting and arguments and enjoyed instead the good humour and kindness displayed instead. The surprise of a short trip to Paris was welcome too, and brings back memories of Clarries lifetime trip to France and the twinning that's been very much forgotten in recent decades. I also felt very satisfied at the end of the episode that only one aspect of life, one family, one subject throughout was focused upon. Not saying that should be the daily fare, but occasionally it's refreshing.
Ah yes, Mrs P. Fond memories of Meyruelle and later the pétanque pitch that Sid built at the Bull! I too really enjoyed the episode, apart perhaps, from the Vicar getting drunk which seemed a bit too much of a cliché to me, trying a bit too hard to insert a bit of comedy! But lovely that Joe and Nic got a mention.
However, I am just wondering how Eddie managed to get a vaccination certificate for himself and Clarrie and negative PCR tests without Clarrie knowing! And when they get to Paris they will need a French certificate of double vaccinations to enable them to stay at the hotel, eat in cafés and visit the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre!
But perhaps that is where we are supposed to suspend belief that Ambridge is in the same time zone as the rest of us. 😉
I too thoroughly enjoyed last night’s episode.There was certainly some sentimentality when Nic and Joe were mentioned which was appropriate imo,but there was a fair smattering of humour too.Alan getting tiddily and singing was hilarious,as was Ed and Will discovering after the event that they had each slipped £10 to Eddie to make sure he was smartly dressed.It was a pleasure,as Mrs.P says to hear all the family so happy,and including their good friend Oliver in their celebration.
I thought it was George being bribed, and thought, oh, another scam merchant fulfilling the Grundy tradition of sponging off others and conning people. I thought it was really inappropriate that Carrie thought it was funny. I didn't much enjoy the episode because I can't stand the Grundies, except for Ed (and often Emma).
I agree with you, Mistral. Mia is okay though not actually a Grundy, of course. I was surprised Alf didn’t get an invitation or even a mention- and cross that the scriptwriters chose to make a fool of Alan, who I like.
I wasn't impressed with Alan. One drink, OK, but he came to officiate, what on earrh was he doing downing multiple drinks before the ceremony even started? (Yes, I know this is Grundy cider so probably about 80% proof, but he certainly had more than one glass of the stuff.)
I also enjoyed the happy episode even though I didn't think that Alan would drink like a fish! It was nice to hear Ed and Will too as they've been missing for a while.
I thought Ruth and Josh coped very well with Linda, but I am disliking that woman more and more as time passes. I feel that it is a pity that the SWs have decided to allow Linda to return to her former self and even to be more obnoxious, since her humble recovery from the accident. I would have liked to see the change in her to be more permanent.
I’m finding it increasingly difficult to identify where conversations are taking place - maybe I’m missing the clues. Where was Oliver lurking tonight when Ed came looking for Will (and why wasn’t he minding his.hotel)?
I thought that was a very amusing episode. I actually found myself laughing out loud at Oliver trying to imitate a turkey! And it seems that George has become a chip off the old Grundy block, a proper little cheeky menace.
I assumed Oliver was at home in Grange Farm when Ed burst in to ask his help with rounding up the missing turkey. And as for minding the hotel .... he has Kathy and Roy to do that for him!
George is a distinctly unpleasant young man, conning money out of his relatives and maximising on Alan's embarrassment, for his own gratuitous amusement, I assumer. At least he didn't try blackmailing him first, maybe that's to come.
If Oliver has Kathy and Roy to run the hotel, why is he so hands on at other times? And why wouLd he be lurking round Grange Farm when noone else is in - did he move into the spare bedroo when I wasn't listening?
Grange Farm is, after all, his own home.The one he shared with his beloved Caroline, so of course he likes it. He must be a very tolerant and magnanimous man, still allowing the Grundy’s to live there at minimal rent, especially after they trashed the place when they first moved in. But think he now enjoys their company (most of the time) and Clarrie’s cooking. I think they have become an almost surrogate family for him despite the outrageous things some of them get up to. He, strangely, has an affection for them and the arrangement suits them all.
As for Grey Gables, I don’t find it strange at all that he likes to keep an eye on the place, despite having Roy and the invisible Kathy to manage the place. Again, it was his and Caroline’s creation and he is obviously reluctant to cut all ties with the place, though not have to concern himself with the day to day minutiae. It all seems perfectly understandable to me.
I knew The Archers has always had silent characters. Now we have invisible ones! What have I been missing? Are all the other characters projected into people's sitting rooms, or does my radio have a little screen I've never spotted? ; )
I'm pleased to see the ongoing development of characters who were previously marginal, such as Chelsea as well as the slow reveal of Blake. And Jazzer approaching middle age is amusing. Well done Jim ! Yes, agree with Zoetrope, a good episode.
Why couldn’t Chelsea be as nice to Mia as she was to Blake.? The answers I’ve thought of aren’t flattering! I haven’t made up my mind about her. She’s certainly got her mother’s gift o’ the gab. I wonder if she’s going to become a substitute for Tracy who has become strangely silent.
I have stood by my resolution as to listen to the TA omnibus only again. It is hard, and my Archers Addiction has been giving me, some withdrawl symptoms. I have read enough posts here, to know that I will really enjoy the omnibus.... It sounds worth waiting for.
I’m delighted the archeological storyline has resurfaced! It’s one I’d always wanted so I was overjoyed when Jill spotted the ancient coins and the university archaeologists moved in - only to be disappointed when the storyline ended abruptly and we got Eddie Grundy being his usual dodgy self instead. There were no discoveries, apart from Ben discovering silent but nice-sounding Evie. I hope they have better luck this time - and Ben gets back with Evie.
Ah, sorry I didn't find it, very busy with family visit, builders, destroying kitchen units etc, not to mention Christmas! Well, my paraphrasing was fairly good, if longer than the original, and I'm sorry that I misled you about Roger McGough, but it really did sound as though he should have written it, I think 😀 You did well to find it given my misleading clues. I always liked it, and when things get tough, it's the family quote. Even though we get it wrong-ish. Thank you for reminding me🌼🌼🌼
It’s the only example I know of a poem that is shorter than its title. (Best motto quote it in front of poor Kirsty who is still mourning the loss of her Welsh dream.)
As Oliver's age isn't confirmed, I will assume he is seventy something. Chelsea is certainly a confident young lady and is helping Blake but I wish she could be nicer to Mia.
I loved the omnibus this morning, so much so, I stand my stance of the omnibus only. Chelsey was brilliant with both Linda and particularly Blake. For all her brashness, she can certainly understand others needs and acts accordingly. Mia and Chelsea will definitely become close friends, I am sure. They are chalk + cheese, just like Jazzer + Oliver, and will rub along nicely in the same way. How I would like to hear George joining in, who is a similar age. As to the archeological dig, will there be a massive find like the one revealed this week, where-ever it was? But a roman villa in Ambridge is a bit surreal, more like an Anglo-Saxon village.
My goodness ! We've had some meat on the bone this evening. Two strong S lines, and both giving us something to think about. The re appearance of Hazel. She certainly sounded post Covid. Is she being wheeled out to say goodbye or is Kate wrong, and she has changed her spots. Poor Peggy, put in an invidious position.
And Blake coming to terms with the truth after his head banging episode. That girl did good !
So Hazel wants to come back to her beloved childhood home does she? I think Tom and Natasha better look out, she may decide to move into the flat above the shop which, presumably, she still owns. Or even worse, suggest moving in with her dear stepmother Peggy!
Chelsea was brilliant with Blake tonight. At last he realises the sort of man Philip Moss really was and will hopefully now be willing to help Harrison in tracking down the other slave masters.
One further thought : I wonder if the newspaper report on the other person, was by the same journalist that wanted to interview Blake. If so, and Blake changes his mind about doing an interview, the two young men would be able to corroborate each other's stories and give greater strength to furthering the police investigation.
Definitely good progress with Blake, well done Chelsea. Intrigued at Hazel wanting to return to her childhood home. I will look forward to seeing where the script writers take us with this.
I suppose it could herald a reconciliation between Peggy and Hazel, stepmother and stepdaughter living out their days together in mutual harmony. But somehow, I don’t think so!
What on Earth was the matter with Lilian tonight? Jealous, totally self obsessed, hysterical. Good for Robert telling her a few home truths and making her realise how unreasonable she was being. But then, Lynda was just as bad, in a different way. Obsessed with her wretched play, her own reputation and expecting everyone to bow to her commands.
I don’t know which one of them annoyed me the most !
Lilian exposed herself as a silly and vain woman. Ridiculous. Lynda got totally carried away with her authoritarian attitude. What a pair. I hope they made the train and have a wonderful time though.
I shall be interested to see how the SWs cope with the fact that no investitures have been held at Buckingham Palace this year - they are being held at Windsor. And the fact that the Queen, whom Lynda seems to think will present her with the gong, has not been, and will not be, attending any public events until well into the NewYear. I imagine some last minute writing and recording has had to take place!
Interesting that Hilda, who seems to scratch everyone within range except Peggy, has taken an instant liking to Hazel, purring and following her around. I've always thought animals to be a good judge of character so does this mean Hazel has really changed for the better? I wonder.
Oh goodness, that was a very hard listen, hearing how poor Blake and his friends suffered at the hands of the slave masters. I do hope that’s not the last we are going to hear about him. I’m very keen to hear how he gets on and what he does next. Hopefully staying in touch with his Ambridge contacts. Perhaps even coming to live and work in the village.
I didn’t like the way Hazel was trying to get the rewilding project dedicated to her daddy. I am sure Jack Woolly is remembered around the village, cricket pavilion I think, I am also trying to work out how much time she actually spent in Ambridge, Jack moved there from Birmingham in late 60’s early 70’s I think although possibly later, when Hazel would have been into her teens as she is now 65 I think I’m going to have to look through my various books for details, unless some of my fellow bloggers can fill in the gaps.
Can't fill in the gaps chronologically KP, but can confirm that Hazel has always been a marginal character, and always out to make trouble for somebody or other. She created endless problems for her father, who continued to attend to her whims, presumably out of some form of guilt. As illustrated last night, she will go out of her way to be underhand and manipulative. How did she get to the rewinding project, the local taxi driver, wasn't available was he, since it was he who found her ' snooping '. Nasty woman !
From my memory Hazel only turned up in Ambridge when she wanted something. I don’t remember her actually living there at all, apart from brief stays. She always very much resented Jack marrying Peggy and caused endless problems through her jealousy, behaving appallingly when Jack died. This so-called ‘new’ Hazel who gets fits of the vapours when convenient, doesn’t pull the wool over my eyes at all.
Watch out Peggy, and the rest of the family! I reckon she is down on her uppers and is after a handout from Peggy’s inheritance. She’ll probably want a share of any profits from the rewilding scheme too, seing as it was ‘Daddy’s’ money that financed it. 👿 😡
KPNuts - here goes: “Hazel Woolley is the only daughter of Reggie andValerie and was born in 1956. She spent her early years in the West Indies, but when her father died her mother brought her back to Ambridge. Valerie’s second marriage was to Jack Woolley and although it did not last, Woolley went ahead with his plans to formally adopt Hazel as his daughter. When Valerie walked out Hazel stayed, was educated by Woolley, and given an allowance by him when she eventually moved to London” etc. etc
Jack came to Ambridge in 1962 when he bought Grey Gables from the Trenthams (presumably they had employed a business manager while they were in the West Indies. so Hazel must have been at least 6 when they first met.
The scriptwriters are certainly laying on Hazel’s unpleasantness with a trowel!
Thanks, Mrs P. That's encouraged me to ad the rest. (It gets worse!!)
"She sometimes works as a PA in a film company [this is in 1985 when my book was published] and to Jack Woolley's disappointment hardly ever comes to visit him. When she does, though, she usually makes an impact. In 1983 she attempted to seduce Tony Archer [crikey - how bored would you have to be??] and sacked Higgs; in 1984 she kicked Captain (Nigel Pargetter called her a 'she-wolf') and poured vodka in the fish-tank (killing all the fishes). In August 1985, she again returned and Woolley gave her a post as conference manager and PRO." [End of entry]
Some more dates for KPNuts - Jack married Valerie Trentham in 1966 when Hazel was 10, and he adopted Hazel in 1969, which is when I guess she began calling him Daddy. Valerie walked out on them soon after.
Sorry again, missed out (out of boredom) after Tony Archer! (Recovering from operation - suspect surgeon's hand strayed and part of my brain went too!)
Thank you maryellen for all the info on Hazel. What a nasty person she seems to be. Anyone who is cruel to animals is to be avoided and that sort of behaviour indicates very serious problems in the person's personality.
Thank you Maryellen for the comprehensive run down own Hazel. An unpleasant character who would doubtless blame her behaviour on her unfortunate start in life, her own father dying then being abandoned by her mother. I suppose we should have some sympathy but she makes that difficult.
I am still standing firm about only listening to the Sunday Omnibus. I still read all the posts here, and enjoy all the info. given about the history and backgrounds of the various characters, and situations. Many here are so good at this, but Maryellen gives so much more, which I will definitely miss. I don't think that reading this TA page is a spoiler site, in fact, it just "wets my appetite" for TA even more. Although I know what to expect, it does not distract me in the slightest way, from my Sunday listening. Keep it up.
I loved the omnibus this morning. What with the donkey auditions, Blake talking to Harrison, Will going back to a Shoot, and Linda doing just doing what she knows best. It was a great listen. How sad though, that Bert's funeral wasn't heard, as it must have happened on Friday. It would have been lovely to be a part of his final Ambridge farewell.
Now to Hazel - I am still not sure what her motives are, and how genuine she is. Toby's last comment will come back, of that I a sure.
Toby said about Hazel:- "I'm sure she's not going to cause any trouble, at all". Why do Hazel's comments, remind me of The Railway Children so much - "Daddy, My Daddy".
I hope someone, tells Kirsty all about Blake, so that she no longer has to visit Philip, in HMP I bet this doesn't happen, and Philip will not tell her that Blake will not be visiting. Will he try to manipulate Kirsty again, if this happens?.
Listening to the omnibus this morning it struck me that the whining neediness had gone out of Hazel’s voice when she talked to Rex in much stronger tones. She is playing a part. Maybe her ulterior motive is to elbow Peggy aside so that she can claim credit for the rewilding through Jack. The fact is though that the money was his but he bequeathed it to Peggy which means legally it is hers and she can do what she likes with it.
Well that’s going to be interesting tomorrow. Hazel Woolley up against fiery Natasha. I shall look forward to that encounter. It’s likely to be nothing on Natasha and Pat !
“Oh, you have done this flat up nicely! It’s a great improvement on how it looked before. I think it would do very nicely as an Airbnb and bring in a much bigger rent than you are paying now!. Or alternatively I might have to raise your rent!”
How right you all were. Hazel reminds me of a Noel Coward character who ruined everyone's life and couldn't understand why she wasn't liked. Asking for more hot water was a really nice touch. She's top of my "obnoxious" list.
What is Hazel up to 🤔 and where is her “new place”? Is she intending to reclaim her flat good luck with that Hazel you maybe the official owner but you have met you’re match in Natasha who I still can’t make my mind up about. She and Pat are two strong women, I do not like Pat trying to keep control of Tom I experienced that so much in my first marriage but being young would not have dared to confront said m-i-l Natasha style.
Another thing that struck me from the omnibus was that no way would Lynda and Eddie be given free reign to choose the donkey. Apart from anything else the owner and helpers would know the donkeys well and would be able to point out the most suitable one! At the very least L and E would have been accompanied by one of the staff!
Well, the first part of my prediction this morning was dead right! But I didn’t think she’d want to Iive above he shop herself.
As I said before, I reckon she’s really down on her uppers and has come back to Ambridge to the only property she still owns. There is no house she is doing up, she has to live in the flat, steeps stairs or not, and Tom & Nat just have to get out, like it or lump it!
Well, no surprises there: 'New Improved Hazel Ultra' is just the original product in fancy new packaging. Second thought, the new version contains a high percentage of artificial sweeteners.
At least she hasn't tried to get Lynda to sell her Ambridge Hall. Yet ...
Oh the joys of renting! Smallish Person in a Shoe is trying to organise a 5 person house rental for next academic year. The agents want them *each* to provide a rent guarantor for £40,000. Presumably on the basis that those with parents on lower incomes have already given up hope of studying at university.
Cheer up Tom and Natasha, at least Brookfield Bungalow will be in need of new tenants soon.
OwiaS - hope your smallest achieves the objective. My granddaughter took on the same task and now all five are happily ensconced in their new home.
As for Hazel W. I agree with Archerphile, she's down on her uppers and the flat is her last hope. I wonder too if she will attempt to leech off Peggy to gain access to ' daddy's money '
Personally with one irritating super ego in Ambridge, Linda, I don't look forward to another in the person of Hazel Woolly.
I thought I was probably on my own regarding my irritation of Lynda . The whole business of her being made an MBE was ridiculous. I realise that others like me can't abide Hazel Woolley . Dreadful woman. I agree Archerphile. The woman is down on her uppers and is after a fast buck. Then there is the abominable Natasha, nauseating Lilian, whining Clarrie ,sanctimonious Shula and sickening Jennifer I want more of Chelsea ,Tracy and Jazzer.
The old Hazel is showing through. She really isn’t that sorry about giving the push to Tom and Natasha. I wonder why they haven’t thought about buying a home as they must have a reasonable income between them. Renting in this country is fraught with difficulty as at any time you can be given notice to quit. It has recently happened to my goddaughter, her partner and two children. They cannot find an alternative rental as demand is so great. We will see what the New Year brings.
Tom had identified some land on the farm to build s house for himself and Brenda/Kirsty, can't remember which one. If they had planning permissionthen, I expect it would still be valid now, and they have the money from selling the Beechwood land too, so it would make sense to build their own.
A good idea Mistral, but I can't see Natasha being at all enthusiastic about living on the farm.
Hazel is really nasty, but the SWs have deliberately set up the situation forecast by Natasha at the end of tonight's episode. Fallons comments were innocent but have been escalated by the SWs to become gossip fuelled to create further unpleasantness between her and Natasha.
It was obvious that Fallon's comments were going to be taken advantage of by Hazel. It didn't seem quite in character for Fallon to divulge all that information to someone like Hazel but, as you say Mrs. P, the SWs want a show down between Natasha and Fallon.
Yes, I was just going to write that it is on the front page of today’s Telegraph. How lovely to see that TA has Royal approval and 102 year old June Spencer invited to Clarence House to cut the celebration cake with the Duchess of Cornwall.
I was wrong. Not a confrontation between Natasha and Fallon, but a slanderous attack on Susan, who for once on this occasion was innocent of the gossip she was accused of.
And a brilliant performance from Eddie, able to get his own back on behalf of Joe and the rest of the family. I really enjoyed that despite not generally being in approval of such behaviour. But people like H W, who as Eddie explained to Ed, has deliberately upset and sabotaged the lives of many in Ambridge, do deserve to get their comeuppance.
Perhaps this will be our TA Christmas present, the village seeing Hazel Woolly off !
Yes, but what happens when Hazel asks Pat and Tony if they enjoyed the turkey, or wants to present it herself, all dressed up as humble pie? Not sure what would annoy them more - being charged for something someone else has also paid for, or having inadvertently swallowed something provided by Ms Woolley.
I can’t imagine she’s top of the pops there as she has treated many of them badly. I wouldn’t like to see her as a permanent resident so hopefully they will see her off. I do applaud the actress though!
I thought the villain of the piece was Eddie, shamelessly humiliating Hazel who was trying to do a good deed and stealing her money. I wasn’t impressed byaEd either for aiding and abetting (sorry, Mistral!). I’ve started to dislike Eddie Grundy quite a lot. He’s not only immoral but idiotic. As OWIAS says, how can he possibly get away with it?
And was she really trying to do a good deed? Or was she trying to stave off family criticism for turfing Tom and Natasha out of the flat? More like a guilty conscience I think, hoping her ‘Scrooge turns good with a Christmas Turkey’ act will deflate any flak she is likely to be in for from ‘dear Peggy’.
How about trying to give Hazel the benefit of the doubt? Innocent until proved guilty and all that. And whatever Hazel’s motives, there’s no exonerating Eddie from swindling both her and his neighbours. Saying he’s immoral is too mild. The man’s a petty criminal. I look forward to the day HMRC catches up with his tax dodging scheme with the white limo. Though Rex Fairbrother hasn’t been kicking up about the competition recently so I guess the novelty has worn off, and the villagers are going for driver reliability rather than glamour!
Oh yes, totally agree Eddie is a very dodgy character, as was his Dad. And I hope he, or Ed will ensure that Bridge Farm is reimbursed for their Turkey payment …..if Clarrie gets to hear what Eddie did I am sure she will insist in Eddie returning their money.
But as for giving Hazel the benefit of the doubt, she has done too many nasty, unkind things to people over the years for me to feel forgiving towards her, I’m afraid.
Sorry Maryellen, I can't give Hazel Woolly the benefit of the doubt. I agree with Archerphile, far too many instances in the past of her very nasty machinations. And I don't think the SWs intend us to think that she has reformed or changed her spots. As far as you I'm concerned she is an unreformed character. If I'm wrong I will apologise.
As far as Eddie Grundy is concerned, yes of course he's dodgy, it's in his DNA. And he does indeed get away with far too much. I think that it's a fine line between dodgy and petty criminal ! But at least Clarrie seems to have passed on to their sons more than a degree of honesty and decency. Like Archerphile again I hope that Ed and or Clarrie between them will see to it that the Bridge farm payment is reimbursed.
Oh dear, I've made the mistake of treating Hazel as a real person, multidimensional and capable of change (which is the stuff of drama) - quite forgetting that she is a one-dimensional soap character, destined by the scriptwriters to be evil until the End of Time or the End of TA, whichever comes first!
As for Eddie Grundy, he's a swindler, and I know which side of Mrs P's fine line I think that's on! Even if Clarrie makes him pay the money back, he's still an swindler, and sadly Ed connived.
In their day Eddie and Joe were not averse to a bit of poaching which made Will’s choice of career as a gamekeeper rather ironic! He had come under the influence of George Barford who was far more honourable and I seem to remember Eddie being rather opposed to Will’s future role! It seems clear that Eddie and Alf were brought up in an atmosphere of dishonesty. To us they are a source of amusement sometimes, lovable rogues but maybe we shouldn’t overlook the fact that they sail close to the wind! I have to say that Hazel deserves a bit of comeuppance!
I was so pleased with Eddie leading Hazel up the garden path, up to the pole barn and into the turkey shed. He knows what she is and had a bit of fun with her. Would you like to choose the bird? Would you like to kill it? You are very welcome to pluck the bird.. I am fairly sure that Eddie will see Bridge Farm alright. He just wanted to get something back on Hazel. Eddie was having fun at Hazel’s expense and I, for one, really enjoyed it
I am still enjoying reading the comments here, even though I now only listen to the Sunday morning episode. It is just as normal for me, as to when I listened on a daily basis, when I often missed major or then minor, salient points.
I take your point re HW being real and multidimensional as opposed to her being a soap character with a single dimension Maryellen, but at the beginning of this week were we not wondering if the SWs were actually planning to alter her character and turn her into a softer individual ? It does seem however that our questions are being answered in the negative by those SWs giving us evidence of her ongoing unpleasant way of descending upon the village intending to do harm to someone, somewhere. But perhaps they have us on a piece of string, and that soon we will discover that Hazel has returned to Ambridge full of the milk of human kindness. We are after all, always in their hands.
As for Eddie Grundy I agree with you. He is a swindler, but for decades he has been our rogue to love, and unfortunately from your point of view, many of us are prepared to love him despite his dishonest ways. And perhaps that is my definition of a fine line !
To me, lovable rogue is a contradiction in terms. A rogue is a rogue, full stop. Though I guess it’s easier to be lenient when there’s no danger of being personally exposed to the swindling etc etc, and that’s why so-called lovable rogues tend to occur in fiction rather than real life
I can’t help wondering if Natasha is going to have a perfectly normal pregnancy and birth. There is a considerable amount of of history of complications with pregnancies in Ambridge. And I don’t think that tiny flat is going to be suitable for a new baby and all the equipment needed -can’t imagine getting a pram/buggy down those steep stairs. Perhaps Hazel has done them a favour after all!
Congrats to Natasha and Tom but Natasha needs to go and apologize to Susan for so wrongly accusing her. I don't find Eddie detestable for his habit of bending the rules. He's not dealing drugs, attacking anyone or committing serious crime and he loves his family so I'm able to overlook his flaws.
It’s beginning to look as though the only place likely to be available to Tom and Natasha to live in in the near future will be Bridge Farm 😱 can you imagine! If Pat goes into early grandmother mode “advising” Natasha in such matters we could see anther Ambridge bloodbath.
I thought the same about Bridge Farm being the likely home for Tom and Natasha Lady R. But as for Pat, I think she's had plenty of experience now as a grandmother to Helens boys, plus she is already wary of Natasha so might hold back from giving N advice.
The Ambridge Fairy will have a great, but tiring two pre- Christmas weeks. Who will end up living where, and who will she let out of the cupboard whilst enclosing others in, over the festive period. Properties to consider:- April Cottage - owner Hazel W - last known resident Dr. Locke. Glebe Cottage - owner Jill - resident Carole T. Rickyard Cottage - owner Brookfield - residents Pip, Toby and Rosie. No1. The Green - owned by Will - residents Hannah and others, not sure who, but think Johny and AN Other.
Ben and Josh also want their own place. Now I know why I love Monopoly.
Bert was the tenant of the bungalow as he had worked at Brookfield until retirement. It would seem sensible to move Josh and Ben in as they are now young men and maybe there is room for Rex as well. Presumably Brookfield is now entirely run by the family, Josh and Ben filling in gaps where necessary. I don’t think there has been any mention of other workers.
Very true Ev. I think they just employ labour from people like Eddie or Ed when required. I wondered whether Jill might like to move to the bungalow with Leonard, which would leave more room at Brookfield for the boys. It might depend on whether they really need the rent from the bungalow. Alternatively, Pip and Rosie (with or without Toby) could move to the bungalow and Rickyard could be rented out as a holiday cottage once again.
Perhaps Tom and Natasha could rent Bert’s bungalow in the short term at least as Hazel has curtailed their time left in the flat,giving them time to review their accommodation options with a baby now n the mix.
Jill is 91 so I think the only move she is likely to make now is to The Laurels. Peggy is 97 so I think the same applies.Christine is 90. Gosh! Leonard has his own surburban semi-detached,, his age isn’t given, but I’ve been assuming he’s significantly younger than.Jill. Perhaps I’ve been wrongly influenced by the cast photos.
Don't think your alone in thinking that Leonard is quite a bit younger than Jill, Maryellen. And I'm not influenced by pictures of the cast since I haven't looked at any for months. And I agree that Jill is unlikely to moving out of Brookfield farmhouse, ever. And I would expect Peggy if she continues, to get in paid live in care, though for the time being she does have Kate on hand.
What a great omnibus listen this morning. My star of the week in Ambridge, has to go to Eddie. He certainly gave Hazel the run around.
BTW. Where is this new home she keeps talking about, and needs a bolt hole for several months, until it is finished - whilst also saying that she now wants to live in Ambridge. I think she has designs on "The Lodge" as her new, forever home, as it did belong to:- "Daddy, My Daddy" As such she needs the flat, despite the steep stairs which she supposedly puffed + panted about, for the longer term,. She first has to manipulate Peggy to leave it, no mean feat, if my wild and fanciful guess, has any credence.
Sarnia says - actually Miriam I quite like 'ursapping'. It sounds a lot more fundamental than 'usurping'. I think I might have been ursapped ever since Friday, when I spent the afternoon shifting heavy pot plants around the garden in my new garden caddy.
Oh, Mrs P, I listened to it as well, in the kitchen while preparing dinner. That's the first time since Mr S died in August 2019. The milestones are coming thick and fast at present, which is a great relief!
I don’t think that rules out Brookfield Bungalow as a home for Natasha and Tom, once the extended family have got their heads round the situation. So Pat and Tony may be spared after all.
It sounds as if we shall be loosing Blake from the story soon. I loved his interaction with Tracy’s family last night. He actually sounded much happier and I think he now has a positive future ahead of him. But I shall very much miss this actor’s skill in portraying a frightened, cowed young man who trusted the wrong people.
As for Natasha’s news - Tom obviously can’t keep a secret! And I was a bit surprised by Pat and Tony’s fantastically enthusiastic reaction, after Pat and Natasha’s recent encounters. So Bridge Farm is going to be full again. I wonder what sort of mother Natasha will make? Will she expect Pat to do the baby care while she runs the fruit juice business, or perhaps she will become a full time mother and give up on being so hands-on with the juicing. I somehow don’t think it is all going to run smoothly and I predict lots of further tension between Natasha and the other occupants of Bridge Farm.
Well, perhaps they can arrange a family creche. Whoever is looking after Martha at The Nest (oe wherever) while Chris is at work, could look after Baby Anon as well.
Pat and Tony were put in an impossible situation as had they said no to Tom and Natasha moving in it could well cause another problem between them. Pat and Natasha have already clashed so there will be fireworks ahead!
I have been wondering who is looking after Martha while Susan and Neil are at work. With all these babes needing daycare a crèche in Ambridge could go down well! It would relieve the grandparents!!
Lynda is a pseudointellectual snob and what is worse a bully. She has been for many years and is growing worse. It is surely time that someone slapped her down and very hard too. The award of an MBE does not make one royalty..
It’s Lynda’s voice that gets to me - it seems to have become even more exaggerated since lockdown, except when she is being kind to someone, like she was to Susan after Natasha’s onslaught. Then it returns to near normal and I can think of her as a genuine person and not a soap caricature.
There’s always a good side and a bad side to everyone. In Lynda’s case she gets things moving and has achieved a lot in sleepy old Ambridge but the downside is that she is irritatingly bossy!! Again the different nuances of the same character are a reflection of her acting ability as in the case of the Hazel character.
I agree with each and every one of the comments above regarding Lynda Snell, and each comment illustrates a different aspect of, as Ev says, a well acted character. But more, Lynda is too a well drawn character for which we have the SWs to thank.
Like Maryellen, it is for me the voice that irritates, but I also appreciate that it is in the essence of the voice that so much of Lynda's character is given to us.
As far as putting her down, her husband seems to be the best placed person to at least keep her in check, which he does manage to do from time to time.
I meant to comment last night and address to Miriam that the character she seems to have taken to, Stella, came across very well indeed as the person able to manage Mia. She was firm and kind in addressing Mia in an adult way and succeeded in diverting Mia from her intention to disrupt the shoot. I look forward to the SWs developing this character further and showing us a more rounded person.
I found Stella's intervention talk with Mia very interesting. Stella addressed the situation in a sensible pragmatic way and managed to befriend Mia instead of antagonizing her. She spoke about the cruelty inflicted on chickens and the fact that Mia doesn't demonstrate about that plus what she was putting her stepfather through. Full marks Stella.
Funny that Maryellen, cos she’s becoming one of the most disliked characters for me. In fact I want to give them all a good slap, can’t think of one character that I particularly like any more. Even gone off Jazzer. Maybe it’s just because it’s the season of bah humbug!
I have mixed feelings about Mia. Sometimes I like her and her ways, at other times she irritates. But I'm aware that she is a character in development and that pleases me. I seem to remember that when Elizabeth's daughter Lily was in development, we had lots of likes and dislikes about her.
As for Stella, I have reason to think that Mia is barking up the wrong tree with her. The clue is in ' Weaver ' !
Since when have Ruth and Stella become such bosom buddies? I thought they had had words over the sheep incident with Pip.
Never mind, I applaud Ruth for doing what I have longed for some one to do - telling Lynda ‘NO’ and refusing to be bullied into co- operating with her grandiose ideas. Well done Ruth! 👏👏👏👏
Since Ruth was encouraging Stella to come to the last big village event, the Harvest Supper in Brookfield’s barn, which was taken up by Jill’s big (farewell?) speech so we didn’t hear how Stella got on there. I was looking forward to her meeting Rex - though it’s possible she’s inclined towards women rather than men, of course.
Hooray for Kirsty. At last Lynda has had some comeuppance and then had it rubbed in I did notice that Lynda managed a mention that she had been away to be awarded her MBE.Pompous and self aggrandizing at even the smallest chance. Let’s hope she has learned a lesson. ✌️
At long last, last night there was mention of Vince having problems at the abattoir due to lack of staff And Stella actually spoke about problems at Berrow because they cannot get the pigs processed and will have to cull them on the farm TA catches up with an important farming story that’s been going on for months. (i do know it’s partially due to scripts being written weeks in advance, but a story that affects several characters in Ambridge could have been mentioned sooner I think)
Maryellen - your last point about Stella. That was my reference to the clue being in Weaver, and Mia barking up the wrong tree. Sigourney Weaver being a lesbian icon.
*** FROM PREVIOUS BLOG ***
ReplyDeleteMiriam - November 17, 2021 at 4:27 PM
I am still not sure about Natasha.
However, the scene between her + Fallon though, was far too intense as not to make me think again...
MrsP Ambridge - November 17, 2021 at 11:01 PM
As agreed earlier with Pierre, I am still of the opinion that Natasha is playing the game of turning the tables on the Bridge Farm family idea of bringing her into the fold.
A place she does not want to go.
She ain't no sheep, Natasha !
If I, and others are right, she is making a thoroughly good job of making sure they never entertain the idea again.
However, like Miriam I'm not altogether sure ...... of Natasha, her motivation, or my opinion.
I do agree with Ev, N is ruthless. She does see the other view, and how her advantage creates a disadvantage for the other party, yet still goes ahead with her plan, regardless of the hurt and damage that will be caused.
That surely Maryellen, is ruthlessness at its most basic.
It may also be professional from your POV, but again like Ev, I do not see such behaviour as ethical, and therefore cannot be described as professional.
I don't think Pat Archer saw Natasha's behaviour as ethical either this evening, although perhaps for a different reason.
I do not feel either that Fallon was over reacting.
Fallon has always shown considerable gravity in all she says and does.
To be emotional when given the brutal news from N, without any warning letter from her landlords, that she is about to be thrown out of the business premises that she has worked so hard to create, seems to me to be entirely reasonable.
What's more, the tea rooms at Bridge Farm has brought increased business to the Bridge Farm Shop and Pat, and I would have thought Helen too, will certainly be aware of the damage to their customer base should it disappear.
I think also it is important to remember that this is a rural community we are discussing here, not big city employment rights or business practices.
maryellen - November 18, 2021 at 9:31 AM
Mrs P - I don’t think there’s any point in discussing this further because we are not going to change each other’s minds. I’ve no evidence that Natasha is ruthless, but I do have evidence to the contrary., so I’m sticking with that. I certainly do not associate Fallon with gravity,, as I’ve witnessed her being volatile and emotional on various occasions - and loud with it! Where Pat is concerned, I think it’s a female version of the ‘old bull, young bull’ scenario. I feel Bridge Farm aren’t coming out of this well.
Anneveggie - November 17, 2021 at 10:40 PM
Maybe the argument between Pat and Natasha will put an end to the new business venue plan which would really please Fallon. I thought she was quite understandably upset and angered over Natasha's plans.
I'm so pleased that Clarrie voiced her feelings at Mia's prompting and will now have the celebration that she wants.
Miriam - November 18, 2021 at 4:09 PM
And to think that I posted a while ago, that I was missing Tom + Natasha. I now withdraw that feeling..as I am not liking the Bridge Farm upset and arguements, at all.
Home Farm seems like a quiet idyll in comparison, with the now silent Stella, in charge.
Above is how I think Fallon sees the tea room, but in reality I always think of it as a depressing place for some reason. I don't know why, I just have a feeling that it looks a bit tired and tatty and not quite how she thinks it looks.
ReplyDeleteIt looks to me like a set from a film by Anna Biller.
DeleteDon't think I've ever imagined how the tea room looks, but that picture Gary is very busy, and a bit too much to take in if having tea.
ReplyDeleteI do hope that the battle of the tearoom is won by Fallon and perhaps Pat.
It is a good meeting place for Ambridge residents as an alternative to The Bull.
Love the chintzy picture Gary, especially the mismatching flowery china which to me means genuine vintage and having been bought from sales and charity shops.
ReplyDeleteFallon started.to back down when financial compensation, ie. rent reduction, was mentioned. I don’t think Pat was against the idea, more that Natasha suggested it to Fallon without consulting Bridge Farm first. Rather like Tom suggesting Natasha should move her business there to his family without consulting Natasha first.
ReplyDeleteI thought Pat was furious about the idea when she heard Natasha was proposing to erect an ugly pre-fabricated building on the old Orchard, which Pat didn’t want to spoil the ambiance of the area.
DeleteHowever, Natasha might be able to locate her building and business over at Sawyer’s farm where Tom has his pork processed.
That was surely be an ideal solution. Just the other side of the village (according to my map); in the same area that Tom has business dealings so they could go there together; away from Pat/Helen/Tony’s interference yet saving on the long commute - sounds perfect to me.
But then there is the question of where she is to get staff from. Is she expecting the current staff to re-locate, because Tom has been bemoaning the lack of labour locally?
GG. Lovely photo.
ReplyDeleteMy idea of the tea room, is tables with checked table clothes, up-cycled side-boards and dressers, showing pottery etc. and just comfortable and welcoming. This is due to Emma + Fallon, both as themselves and what they provide.
Natasha's plans will ruin this ambiance, and might ruin the footfall, of both regulars and those visiting the Bridge Farm Shop, to it's premises.
IMO - a trip to a farm shop, nearly always includes a coffee + cake in the nearby cafe.
So would the shop, also suffer??
Chris could make some pieces from his forge, eg candlesticks, then display them in the Tea Room, for sale, with a commision involved.
DeleteThank you for the picture Gary but that tearoom is way too crowded for my taste. It's overdone with so much stuff crammed in. I imagine Fallon's tearoom to be much less cluttered with plain tablecloths, white china, all clean and functional. I hope she can survive as the tearoom has become a pleasant venue for Ambridge folk.
ReplyDeleteI still think "vintage + mis-matched" cups, saucers + plates, but these are just full of home-baked goodies.
DeleteMarie Antoinette an acid! I think I'd get a headache just sitting there! (Unlike lucky GG I very much know what a headache feels like!)
DeleteHideous.
ReplyDelete✔️✔️✔️
DeleteSpeaking personally, I choose a tearoom for the quality of its cake and convenience of its location rather than its external view.or interior decor.. I can’t see how they would change.
ReplyDeleteIt strikes me that Tony and Pat are heading for that retirement bungalow, possibly taking Pat’s hobby goats with them, which would free up space. With Tom and Natasha in the farmhouse, it would be practical for Summer Orchard to be located with the other enterprises at Bridge Farm, including Helen’s ‘factory’/‘food processing unit’.
PS. The answer is staring me in the face! Bert’s bungalow for Tony and Pat’s retirement! Rex has virtually written himself out of it (even if he can afford it) by saying he wants to move on. Does that mean Neil’s pigs which mysteriously became Rex’s, will revert to Neil and occupy Oe of Neil’s untended acres? Or could the Carters use some of that land to build a tearoom for Emma to run with or without Fallon? Or would a tearoom be more profitable if located near the village shop?
DeleteSo many possibilities in a fictional world!
OwiaS -
ReplyDeleteLove your brilliant response- Marie Antionette on Acid !
Agree about the headache.
I would just love for Rex to stay on, both in The Bungalow and with the re-wilding scheme.
ReplyDeleteIt showed last week, just how proud he is with this, when he was so disappointed his Dad didn't see it but it became apparant, when he took Kirsty on a visit.
Let Rex stay, please.
For what it's worth, I so really enjoyed the Omnibus this morning.
ReplyDeleteMy only concern is the Cider Shed. How can it be tranformed so quickly, from pressing apples for the cider, removing the pheasants, cleaning and fumigating it, in such a short time.
I am returning to my once a week TA listen, that is only the Omnibus. It just makes so much more sense, with its seamless continuity and flow of so many S/L's.
DeleteAdam as Bridge Farm Manager?. If so, he will sort Natasha out. After Alice, then he should have the experience to smooth oil on troubled waters, with Bridge Farm.
I still wonder how "When Stella met Alice"
went. Perhaps, it is still to happen.
The cider shed will be transformed instantly via T/A magic touch! It will be beautiful and Clarrie will be thrilled.
DeleteReally enjoyed tonight’s episode 💘 🎊 🍾. I thought Shula was about to be called upon at one point but Oliver just right as a stand in “vicar” Loved how Joe hand Nic were woven in, maybe too mushy for some but a lovely change from shouting and arguing for me.
ReplyDelete🤮 to tonight’s episode. Only good thing was Alan getting drunk.
ReplyDeleteYes that was funny 🤣
DeleteLady R - I enjoyed the lack of shouting and arguments and enjoyed instead the good humour and kindness displayed instead.
DeleteThe surprise of a short trip to Paris was welcome too, and brings back memories of Clarries lifetime trip to France and the twinning that's been very much forgotten in recent decades.
I also felt very satisfied at the end of the episode that only one aspect of life, one family, one subject throughout was focused upon.
Not saying that should be the daily fare, but occasionally it's refreshing.
Ah yes, Mrs P. Fond memories of Meyruelle and later the pétanque pitch that Sid built at the Bull!
DeleteI too really enjoyed the episode, apart perhaps, from the Vicar getting drunk which seemed a bit too much of a cliché to me, trying a bit too hard to insert a bit of comedy!
But lovely that Joe and Nic got a mention.
However, I am just wondering how Eddie managed to get a vaccination certificate for himself and Clarrie and negative PCR tests without Clarrie knowing!
And when they get to Paris they will need a French certificate of double vaccinations to enable them to stay at the hotel, eat in cafés and visit the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre!
But perhaps that is where we are supposed to suspend belief that Ambridge is in the same time zone as the rest of us. 😉
I too thoroughly enjoyed last night’s episode.There was certainly some sentimentality when Nic and Joe were mentioned which was appropriate imo,but there was a fair smattering of humour too.Alan getting tiddily and singing was hilarious,as was Ed and Will discovering after the event that they had each slipped £10 to Eddie to make sure he was smartly dressed.It was a pleasure,as Mrs.P says to hear all the family so happy,and including their good friend Oliver in their celebration.
ReplyDeleteWas it Eddie or George that the boys each paid a tenner too 🤔
DeleteThought it was Eddie being discussed.Perhaps I should have that hearing test.!
ReplyDeleteI thought it was George who got two tenners.
DeleteThat lad knows how to play his two dads off against each other.
Grundy genes !
So I listened to the Archers in the bath tonight in real time. Can’t have reckoned much, I fell to sleep through it.
ReplyDeleteI thought it was George being bribed, and thought, oh, another scam merchant fulfilling the Grundy tradition of sponging off others and conning people. I thought it was really inappropriate that Carrie thought it was funny. I didn't much enjoy the episode because I can't stand the Grundies, except for Ed (and often Emma).
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, Mistral. Mia is okay though not actually a Grundy, of course. I was surprised Alf didn’t get an invitation or even a mention- and cross that the scriptwriters chose to make a fool of Alan, who I like.
DeleteI wasn't impressed with Alan. One drink, OK, but he came to officiate, what on earrh was he doing downing multiple drinks before the ceremony even started? (Yes, I know this is Grundy cider so probably about 80% proof, but he certainly had more than one glass of the stuff.)
DeleteIf someone had to get drunk on cider, to make the episode amusing, I’d rather the scriptwriters had picked on Oliver.
DeleteI also enjoyed the happy episode even though I didn't think that Alan would drink like a fish! It was nice to hear Ed and Will too as they've been missing for a while.
ReplyDeleteOh, clergy are full of surprises!
DeleteAlan was drinking the cider on an empty stomach,leading to him behaving out of character,Hope the Script Writers leave it at that.
ReplyDeleteHe did say he wasn't used to cider too, but Eddie wasn't listening.
ReplyDeleteI thought Ruth and Josh coped very well with Linda, but I am disliking that woman more and more as time passes.
ReplyDeleteI feel that it is a pity that the SWs have decided to allow Linda to return to her former self and even to be more obnoxious, since her humble recovery from the accident.
I would have liked to see the change in her to be more permanent.
I’m finding it increasingly difficult to identify where conversations are taking place - maybe I’m missing the clues. Where was Oliver lurking tonight when Ed came looking for Will (and why wasn’t he minding his.hotel)?
ReplyDeleteI thought that was a very amusing episode. I actually found myself laughing out loud at Oliver trying to imitate a turkey!
ReplyDeleteAnd it seems that George has become a chip off the old Grundy block, a proper little cheeky menace.
I assumed Oliver was at home in Grange Farm when Ed burst in to ask his help with rounding up the missing turkey.
And as for minding the hotel .... he has Kathy and Roy to do that for him!
George is a distinctly unpleasant young man, conning money out of his relatives and maximising on Alan's embarrassment, for his own gratuitous amusement, I assumer. At least he didn't try blackmailing him first, maybe that's to come.
ReplyDeleteIf Oliver has Kathy and Roy to run the hotel, why is he so hands on at other times? And why wouLd he be lurking round Grange Farm when noone else is in - did he move into the spare bedroo when I wasn't listening?
Maryellen, I think he did exactly that. There was a comment from ? Roy? last week to that effect.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mistral - the Grundies seem to be taking full advantage! Still, if he likes it.......
DeleteGrange Farm is, after all, his own home.The one he shared with his beloved Caroline, so of course he likes it.
DeleteHe must be a very tolerant and magnanimous man, still allowing the Grundy’s to live there at minimal rent, especially after they trashed the place when they first moved in.
But think he now enjoys their company (most of the time) and Clarrie’s cooking.
I think they have become an almost surrogate family for him despite the outrageous things some of them get up to. He, strangely, has an affection for them and the arrangement suits them all.
As for Grey Gables, I don’t find it strange at all that he likes to keep an eye on the place, despite having Roy and the invisible Kathy to manage the place. Again, it was his and Caroline’s creation and he is obviously reluctant to cut all ties with the place, though not have to concern himself with the day to day minutiae.
It all seems perfectly understandable to me.
It was interesting hearing Ed bossing his former mentor and benefactor about. I’ve never heard Ed so forceful,
DeleteI was hoping that Oliver wouldn't injure himself in some way. Dashing around chasing turkeys at his age. Actually how old is Oliver?
DeleteI knew The Archers has always had silent characters. Now we have invisible ones! What have I been missing? Are all the other characters projected into people's sitting rooms, or does my radio have a little screen I've never spotted? ; )
DeleteA lovely episode this evening.
ReplyDeleteWell done Chelsea.
I'm pleased to see the ongoing development of characters who were previously marginal, such as Chelsea as well as the slow reveal of Blake.
ReplyDeleteAnd Jazzer approaching middle age is amusing. Well done Jim !
Yes, agree with Zoetrope, a good episode.
Why couldn’t Chelsea be as nice to Mia as she was to Blake.? The answers I’ve thought of aren’t flattering! I haven’t made up my mind about her. She’s certainly got her mother’s gift o’ the gab. I wonder if she’s going to become a substitute for Tracy who has become strangely silent.
ReplyDeleteI have stood by my resolution as to listen to the TA omnibus only again. It is hard, and my Archers Addiction has been giving me, some withdrawl symptoms.
ReplyDeleteI have read enough posts here, to know that I will really enjoy the omnibus....
It sounds worth waiting for.
I’m delighted the archeological storyline has resurfaced! It’s one I’d always wanted so I was overjoyed when Jill spotted the ancient coins and the university archaeologists moved in - only to be disappointed when the storyline ended abruptly and we got Eddie Grundy being his usual dodgy self instead. There were no discoveries, apart from Ben discovering silent but nice-sounding Evie. I hope they have better luck this time - and Ben gets back with Evie.
ReplyDeleteHello Mistral.
ReplyDelete, I found that poem it is by Christopher Logue.
To a Friend in Search of Rural Seclusion
When all else fails,
Try Wales
Thank you for sending me off on that poem hunt
A x
Ah, sorry I didn't find it, very busy with family visit, builders, destroying kitchen units etc, not to mention Christmas!
DeleteWell, my paraphrasing was fairly good, if longer than the original, and I'm sorry that I misled you about Roger McGough, but it really did sound as though he should have written it, I think 😀 You did well to find it given my misleading clues.
I always liked it, and when things get tough, it's the family quote. Even though we get it wrong-ish.
Thank you for reminding me🌼🌼🌼
It’s the only example I know of a poem that is shorter than its title. (Best motto quote it in front of poor Kirsty who is still mourning the loss of her Welsh dream.)
DeleteI agree Maryellen, but I wish Natasha would consider it occasionally.
DeleteAs Oliver's age isn't confirmed, I will assume he is seventy something.
ReplyDeleteChelsea is certainly a confident young lady and is helping Blake but I wish she could be nicer to Mia.
I loved the omnibus this morning, so much so, I stand my stance of the omnibus only.
ReplyDeleteChelsey was brilliant with both Linda and particularly Blake.
For all her brashness, she can certainly understand others needs and acts accordingly. Mia and Chelsea will definitely become close friends, I am sure.
They are chalk + cheese, just like Jazzer + Oliver, and will rub along nicely in the same way.
How I would like to hear George joining in, who is a similar age.
As to the archeological dig, will there be a massive find like the one revealed this week, where-ever it was?
But a roman villa in Ambridge is a bit surreal, more like an Anglo-Saxon village.
My goodness !
ReplyDeleteWe've had some meat on the bone this evening.
Two strong S lines, and both giving us something to think about.
The re appearance of Hazel. She certainly sounded post Covid.
Is she being wheeled out to say goodbye or is Kate wrong, and she has changed her spots.
Poor Peggy, put in an invidious position.
And Blake coming to terms with the truth after his head banging episode.
That girl did good !
So Hazel wants to come back to her beloved childhood home does she?
ReplyDeleteI think Tom and Natasha better look out, she may decide to move into the flat above the shop which, presumably, she still owns. Or even worse, suggest moving in with her dear stepmother Peggy!
Chelsea was brilliant with Blake tonight. At last he realises the sort of man Philip Moss really was and will hopefully now be willing to help Harrison in tracking down the other slave masters.
This SL, modern slavery, is developing well.
DeleteI applaud the production team on their real time progress.
One further thought :
ReplyDeleteI wonder if the newspaper report on the other person, was by the same journalist that wanted to interview Blake.
If so, and Blake changes his mind about doing an interview, the two young men would be able to corroborate each other's stories and give greater strength to furthering the police investigation.
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely good progress with Blake, well done Chelsea.
ReplyDeleteIntrigued at Hazel wanting to return to her childhood home. I will look forward to seeing where the script writers take us with this.
I suppose it could herald a reconciliation between Peggy and Hazel, stepmother and stepdaughter living out their days together in mutual harmony.
DeleteBut somehow, I don’t think so!
What a cosy thought Archerphile.
DeleteI don't think so, either !
It occurred to me that may be the actress has requested a last goodbye to the programme.
What on Earth was the matter with Lilian tonight?
ReplyDeleteJealous, totally self obsessed, hysterical.
Good for Robert telling her a few home truths and making her realise how unreasonable she was being.
But then, Lynda was just as bad, in a different way. Obsessed with her wretched play, her own reputation and expecting everyone to bow to her commands.
I don’t know which one of them annoyed me the most !
Both as bad as each other IMO !
DeleteLilian exposed herself as a silly and vain woman. Ridiculous. Lynda got totally carried away with her authoritarian attitude. What a pair. I hope they made the train and have a wonderful time though.
DeleteI shall be interested to see how the SWs cope with the fact that no investitures have been held at Buckingham Palace this year - they are being held at Windsor. And the fact that the Queen, whom Lynda seems to think will present her with the gong, has not been, and will not be, attending any public events until well into the NewYear.
ReplyDeleteI imagine some last minute writing and recording has had to take place!
The trio were definitely heading for Windsor, the Castle was mentioned (and it says Windsor in the synopsis).
DeleteWhoops! Oh dear, I got that bit wrong.
DeleteSorry!
Lillian has form for getting overly dramatic when she’s been disappointed in the way she looks, remember the Botox.
ReplyDeleteInteresting that Hilda, who seems to scratch everyone within range except Peggy, has taken an instant liking to Hazel, purring and following her around. I've always thought animals to be a good judge of character so does this mean Hazel has really changed for the better? I wonder.
ReplyDeleteThat or Hilda recognises a kindred spirit ; )
Delete🤣 you might be right!
DeleteI noticed too that Hilda took to Hazel. It’s a sign .
DeleteMe-ow!
ReplyDeleteOh goodness, that was a very hard listen, hearing how poor Blake and his friends suffered at the hands of the slave masters.
ReplyDeleteI do hope that’s not the last we are going to hear about him. I’m very keen to hear how he gets on and what he does next. Hopefully staying in touch with his Ambridge contacts. Perhaps even coming to live and work in the village.
✔️ Agree totally Archerphile
DeleteI wasn't able to listen last night and can't currently get sounds.
DeleteVery keen to listen at 2 today.
I didn’t like the way Hazel was trying to get the rewilding project dedicated to her daddy. I am sure Jack Woolly is remembered around the village, cricket pavilion I think,
ReplyDeleteI am also trying to work out how much time she actually spent in Ambridge,
Jack moved there from Birmingham in late 60’s early 70’s I think although possibly later, when Hazel would have been into her teens as she is now 65
I think I’m going to have to look through my various books for details, unless some of my fellow bloggers can fill in the gaps.
Can't fill in the gaps chronologically KP, but can confirm that Hazel has always been a marginal character, and always out to make trouble for somebody or other.
DeleteShe created endless problems for her father, who continued to attend to her whims, presumably out of some form of guilt.
As illustrated last night, she will go out of her way to be underhand and manipulative.
How did she get to the rewinding project, the local taxi driver, wasn't available was he, since it was he who found her ' snooping '.
Nasty woman !
From my memory Hazel only turned up in Ambridge when she wanted something. I don’t remember her actually living there at all, apart from brief stays.
DeleteShe always very much resented Jack marrying Peggy and caused endless problems through her jealousy, behaving appallingly when Jack died.
This so-called ‘new’ Hazel who gets fits of the vapours when convenient, doesn’t pull the wool over my eyes at all.
Watch out Peggy, and the rest of the family! I reckon she is down on her uppers and is after a handout from Peggy’s inheritance. She’ll probably want a share of any profits from the rewilding scheme too, seing as it was ‘Daddy’s’ money that financed it.
👿 😡
KPNuts - here goes: “Hazel Woolley is the only daughter of Reggie andValerie and was born in 1956. She spent her early years in the West Indies, but when her father died her mother brought her back to Ambridge. Valerie’s second marriage was to Jack Woolley and although it did not last, Woolley went ahead with his plans to formally adopt Hazel as his daughter. When Valerie walked out Hazel stayed, was educated by Woolley, and given an allowance by him when she eventually moved to London” etc. etc
DeleteJack came to Ambridge in 1962 when he bought Grey Gables from the Trenthams (presumably they had employed a business manager while they were in the West Indies. so Hazel must have been at least 6 when they first met.
The scriptwriters are certainly laying on Hazel’s unpleasantness with a trowel!
Oh well done Maryellen !
DeleteNow you've reminded me, yes she was actually Reggie Trenhams daughter.
Forgotten all of that.
Don't leave us Maryellen, we couldn't do without you, and I for one appreciate your amazing input.
Thank you very much.
Sorry, should be only daughter of Reginald and Valerie Trentham.....
DeleteThanks, Mrs P. That's encouraged me to ad the rest. (It gets worse!!)
Delete"She sometimes works as a PA in a film company [this is in 1985 when my book was published] and to Jack Woolley's disappointment hardly ever comes to visit him. When she does, though, she usually makes an impact. In 1983 she attempted to seduce Tony Archer [crikey - how bored would you have to be??] and sacked Higgs; in 1984 she kicked Captain (Nigel Pargetter called her a 'she-wolf') and poured vodka in the fish-tank (killing all the fishes). In August 1985, she again returned and Woolley gave her a post as conference manager and PRO." [End of entry]
Some more dates for KPNuts - Jack married Valerie Trentham in 1966 when Hazel was 10, and he adopted Hazel in 1969, which is when I guess she began calling him Daddy. Valerie walked out on them soon after.
Sorry again, missed out (out of boredom) after Tony Archer! (Recovering from operation - suspect surgeon's hand strayed and part of my brain went too!)
DeleteThank you maryellen for all the info on Hazel. What a nasty person she seems to be. Anyone who is cruel to animals is to be avoided and that sort of behaviour indicates very serious problems in the person's personality.
DeleteThank you Maryellen for the comprehensive run down own Hazel. An unpleasant character who would doubtless blame her behaviour on her unfortunate start in life, her own father dying then being abandoned by her mother. I suppose we should have some sympathy but she makes that difficult.
DeleteI am still standing firm about only listening to the Sunday Omnibus.
ReplyDeleteI still read all the posts here, and enjoy all the info. given about the history and backgrounds of the various characters, and situations. Many here are so good at this, but Maryellen gives so much more, which I will definitely miss.
I don't think that reading this TA page is a spoiler site, in fact, it just "wets my appetite" for TA even more.
Although I know what to expect, it does not distract me in the slightest way, from my Sunday listening.
Keep it up.
I loved the omnibus this morning.
ReplyDeleteWhat with the donkey auditions, Blake talking to Harrison, Will going back to a Shoot, and Linda doing just doing what she knows best.
It was a great listen.
How sad though, that Bert's funeral wasn't heard, as it must have happened on Friday. It would have been lovely to be a part of his final Ambridge farewell.
Now to Hazel - I am still not sure what her motives are, and how genuine she is.
Toby's last comment will come back, of that I a sure.
Toby said about Hazel:-
Delete"I'm sure she's not going to cause any trouble, at all".
Why do Hazel's comments, remind me of The Railway Children so much - "Daddy, My Daddy".
I hope someone, tells Kirsty all about Blake, so that she no longer has to visit Philip, in HMP
ReplyDeleteI bet this doesn't happen, and Philip will not tell her that Blake will not be visiting.
Will he try to manipulate Kirsty again, if this happens?.
Listening to the omnibus this morning it struck me that the whining neediness had gone out of Hazel’s voice when she talked to Rex in much stronger tones. She is playing a part. Maybe her ulterior motive is to elbow Peggy aside so that she can claim credit for the rewilding through Jack. The fact is though that the money was his but he bequeathed it to Peggy which means legally it is hers and she can do what she likes with it.
ReplyDeleteWell that’s going to be interesting tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteHazel Woolley up against fiery Natasha.
I shall look forward to that encounter.
It’s likely to be nothing on Natasha and Pat !
“Oh, you have done this flat up nicely! It’s a great improvement on how it looked before. I think it would do very nicely as an Airbnb and bring in a much bigger rent than you are paying now!. Or alternatively I might have to raise your rent!”
DeleteHow right you all were. Hazel reminds me of a Noel Coward character who ruined everyone's life and couldn't understand why she wasn't liked. Asking for more hot water was a really nice touch. She's top of my "obnoxious" list.
DeleteWhat is Hazel up to 🤔 and where is her “new place”? Is she intending to reclaim her flat good luck with that Hazel you maybe the official owner but you have met you’re match in Natasha who I still can’t make my mind up about. She and Pat are two strong women, I do not like Pat trying to keep control of Tom I experienced that so much in my first marriage but being young would not have dared to confront said m-i-l Natasha style.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing that struck me from the omnibus was that no way would Lynda and Eddie be given free reign to choose the donkey. Apart from anything else the owner and helpers would know the donkeys well and would be able to point out the most suitable one! At the very least L and E would have been accompanied by one of the staff!
ReplyDeleteWell you've surprised me Natasha.
ReplyDeleteSilence ?
We all expected it surely. One way or the other.
Well, the first part of my prediction this morning was dead right!
DeleteBut I didn’t think she’d want to Iive above he shop herself.
As I said before, I reckon she’s really down on her uppers and has come back to Ambridge to the only property she still owns. There is no house she is doing up, she has to live in the flat, steeps stairs or not, and Tom & Nat just have to get out, like it or lump it!
Well, no surprises there: 'New Improved Hazel Ultra' is just the original product in fancy new packaging. Second thought, the new version contains a high percentage of artificial sweeteners.
ReplyDeleteAt least she hasn't tried to get Lynda to sell her Ambridge Hall. Yet ...
Oh the joys of renting!
ReplyDeleteSmallish Person in a Shoe is trying to organise a 5 person house rental for next academic year.
The agents want them *each* to provide a rent guarantor for £40,000. Presumably on the basis that those with parents on lower incomes have already given up hope of studying at university.
Cheer up Tom and Natasha, at least Brookfield Bungalow will be in need of new tenants soon.
OwiaS - hope your smallest achieves the objective.
ReplyDeleteMy granddaughter took on the same task and now all five are happily ensconced in their new home.
As for Hazel W. I agree with Archerphile, she's down on her uppers and the flat is her last hope.
I wonder too if she will attempt to leech off Peggy to gain access to ' daddy's money '
Personally with one irritating super ego in Ambridge, Linda, I don't look forward to another in the person of Hazel Woolly.
I thought I was probably on my own regarding my irritation of Lynda .
ReplyDeleteThe whole business of her being made an MBE was ridiculous.
I realise that others like me can't abide Hazel Woolley .
Dreadful woman.
I agree Archerphile.
The woman is down on her uppers and is after a fast buck.
Then there is the abominable Natasha, nauseating Lilian, whining Clarrie ,sanctimonious Shula and sickening Jennifer
I want more of Chelsea ,Tracy and Jazzer.
Same with me Esscee
DeleteThe old Hazel is showing through. She really isn’t that sorry about giving the push to Tom and Natasha. I wonder why they haven’t thought about buying a home as they must have a reasonable income between them. Renting in this country is fraught with difficulty as at any time you can be given notice to quit. It has recently happened to my goddaughter, her partner and two children. They cannot find an alternative rental as demand is so great. We will see what the New Year brings.
ReplyDeleteTom had identified some land on the farm to build s house for himself and Brenda/Kirsty, can't remember which one. If they had planning permissionthen, I expect it would still be valid now, and they have the money from selling the Beechwood land too, so it would make sense to build their own.
ReplyDeleteA good idea Mistral, but I can't see Natasha being at all enthusiastic about living on the farm.
DeleteHazel is really nasty, but the SWs have deliberately set up the situation forecast by Natasha at the end of tonight's episode.
Fallons comments were innocent but have been escalated by the SWs to become gossip fuelled to create further unpleasantness between her and Natasha.
It was obvious that Fallon's comments were going to be taken advantage of by Hazel. It didn't seem quite in character for Fallon to divulge all that information to someone like Hazel but, as you say Mrs. P, the SWs want a show down between Natasha and Fallon.
ReplyDeleteWhat lovely photo's I have just seen, of the Duchess of Cornwall + some cast members at Clarence House, celebrating TA 70th Anniversary.
ReplyDeleteYes, I was just going to write that it is on the front page of today’s Telegraph.
DeleteHow lovely to see that TA has Royal approval and 102 year old June Spencer invited to Clarence House to cut the celebration cake with the Duchess of Cornwall.
I enjoyed seeing that on YouTube on the Royal Family Channel.
DeleteI was wrong.
ReplyDeleteNot a confrontation between Natasha and Fallon, but a slanderous attack on Susan, who for once on this occasion was innocent of the gossip she was accused of.
And a brilliant performance from Eddie, able to get his own back on behalf of Joe and the rest of the family.
I really enjoyed that despite not generally being in approval of such behaviour.
But people like H W, who as Eddie explained to Ed, has deliberately upset and sabotaged the lives of many in Ambridge, do deserve to get their comeuppance.
Perhaps this will be our TA Christmas present, the village seeing Hazel Woolly off !
Yes, but what happens when Hazel asks Pat and Tony if they enjoyed the turkey, or wants to present it herself, all dressed up as humble pie?
DeleteNot sure what would annoy them more - being charged for something someone else has also paid for, or having inadvertently swallowed something provided by Ms Woolley.
I can’t imagine she’s top of the pops there as she has treated many of them badly. I wouldn’t like to see her as a permanent resident so hopefully they will see her off. I do applaud the actress though!
DeleteI thought the villain of the piece was Eddie, shamelessly humiliating Hazel who was trying to do a good deed and stealing her money. I wasn’t impressed byaEd either for aiding and abetting (sorry, Mistral!). I’ve started to dislike Eddie Grundy quite a lot. He’s not only immoral but idiotic. As OWIAS says, how can he possibly get away with it?
DeleteI thought Eddie had Hazel well and truly trussed!
DeleteAnd was she really trying to do a good deed?
Or was she trying to stave off family criticism for turfing Tom and Natasha out of the flat?
More like a guilty conscience I think, hoping her ‘Scrooge turns good with a Christmas Turkey’ act will deflate any flak she is likely to be in for from ‘dear Peggy’.
How about trying to give Hazel the benefit of the doubt? Innocent until proved guilty and all that. And whatever Hazel’s motives, there’s no exonerating Eddie from swindling both her and his neighbours. Saying he’s immoral is too mild. The man’s a petty criminal. I look forward to the day HMRC catches up with his tax dodging scheme with the white limo. Though Rex Fairbrother hasn’t been kicking up about the competition recently so I guess the novelty has worn off, and the villagers are going for driver reliability rather than glamour!
DeleteOh yes, totally agree Eddie is a very dodgy character, as was his Dad. And I hope he, or Ed will ensure that Bridge Farm is reimbursed for their Turkey payment …..if Clarrie gets to hear what Eddie did I am sure she will insist in Eddie returning their money.
DeleteBut as for giving Hazel the benefit of the doubt, she has done too many nasty, unkind things to people over the years for me to feel forgiving towards her, I’m afraid.
Sorry Maryellen, I can't give Hazel Woolly the benefit of the doubt.
DeleteI agree with Archerphile, far too many instances in the past of her very nasty machinations.
And I don't think the SWs intend us to think that she has reformed or changed her spots.
As far as you I'm concerned she is an unreformed character.
If I'm wrong I will apologise.
As far as Eddie Grundy is concerned, yes of course he's dodgy, it's in his DNA.
DeleteAnd he does indeed get away with far too much.
I think that it's a fine line between dodgy and petty criminal !
But at least Clarrie seems to have passed on to their sons more than a degree of honesty and decency.
Like Archerphile again I hope that Ed and or Clarrie between them will see to it that the Bridge farm payment is reimbursed.
Oh dear, I've made the mistake of treating Hazel as a real person, multidimensional and capable of change (which is the stuff of drama) - quite forgetting that she is a one-dimensional soap character, destined by the scriptwriters to be evil until the End of Time or the End of TA, whichever comes first!
DeleteAs for Eddie Grundy, he's a swindler, and I know which side of Mrs P's fine line I think that's on! Even if Clarrie makes him pay the money back, he's still an swindler, and sadly Ed connived.
In their day Eddie and Joe were not averse to a bit of poaching which made Will’s choice of career as a gamekeeper rather ironic! He had come under the influence of George Barford who was far more honourable and I seem to remember Eddie being rather opposed to Will’s future role! It seems clear that Eddie and Alf were brought up in an atmosphere of dishonesty. To us they are a source of amusement sometimes, lovable rogues but maybe we shouldn’t overlook the fact that they sail close to the wind! I have to say that Hazel deserves a bit of comeuppance!
DeleteI was so pleased with Eddie leading Hazel up the garden path, up to the pole barn and into the turkey shed.
DeleteHe knows what she is and had a bit of fun with her.
Would you like to choose the bird?
Would you like to kill it?
You are very welcome to pluck the bird..
I am fairly sure that Eddie will see Bridge Farm alright.
He just wanted to get something back on Hazel.
Eddie was having fun at Hazel’s expense and I, for one, really enjoyed it
I am still enjoying reading the comments here, even though I now only listen to the Sunday morning episode.
ReplyDeleteIt is just as normal for me, as to when I listened on a daily basis, when I often missed major or then minor, salient points.
How lovely to see Maryellen again ✅✅
I take your point re HW being real and multidimensional as opposed to her being a soap character with a single dimension Maryellen, but at the beginning of this week were we not wondering if the SWs were actually planning to alter her character and turn her into a softer individual ?
ReplyDeleteIt does seem however that our questions are being answered in the negative by those SWs giving us evidence of her ongoing unpleasant way of descending upon the village intending to do harm to someone, somewhere.
But perhaps they have us on a piece of string, and that soon we will discover that Hazel has returned to Ambridge full of the milk of human kindness.
We are after all, always in their hands.
As for Eddie Grundy I agree with you.
He is a swindler, but for decades he has been our rogue to love, and unfortunately from your point of view, many of us are prepared to love him despite his dishonest ways.
And perhaps that is my definition of a fine line !
To me, lovable rogue is a contradiction in terms. A rogue is a rogue, full stop. Though I guess it’s easier to be lenient when there’s no danger of being personally exposed to the swindling etc etc, and that’s why so-called lovable rogues tend to occur in fiction rather than real life
DeletePS. It wasn’t just Hazel that Eddie was swindling on the feeble excuse she deserved it - it was Bridge Farm too. How lovable was that?
DeleteCongratulations to Natasha and Tom.
ReplyDeleteAnother member of the next Archers generation on its way in Ambridge.
And, I suppose, the reason why Natasha has been so hasty with her temper in recent days.
And well done Fallon, for owning up to Natasha.
I wondered about a pregnancy when she needed to go and have a lie-down.
DeleteBut does she know how expensive babies are? Not the time to being maxing out on a credit card.
Perhaps Natasha will now apologise to Susan, promptly.
ReplyDeleteI certainly hope so Mistral.
DeleteSusan is a gossip, but nevertheless should not have been immediately suspected to have given information to HW.
I can’t help wondering if Natasha is going to have a perfectly normal pregnancy and birth.
ReplyDeleteThere is a considerable amount of of history of complications with pregnancies in Ambridge. And I don’t think that tiny flat is going to be suitable for a new baby and all the equipment needed -can’t imagine getting a pram/buggy down those steep stairs.
Perhaps Hazel has done them a favour after all!
Tom is bound to remember what happened with the last baby he fathered.
DeleteI'm sure Kirsty will too.
DeleteCongrats to Natasha and Tom but Natasha needs to go and apologize to Susan for so wrongly accusing her.
ReplyDeleteI don't find Eddie detestable for his habit of bending the rules. He's not dealing drugs, attacking anyone or committing serious crime and he loves his family so I'm able to overlook his flaws.
It’s beginning to look as though the only place likely to be available to Tom and Natasha to live in in the near future will be Bridge Farm 😱 can you imagine! If Pat goes into early grandmother mode “advising” Natasha in such matters we could see anther Ambridge bloodbath.
ReplyDeleteBrookfield Bungalow has 3 bedrooms and a good-sized garden which is what Natasha specified.
DeleteI thought the same about Bridge Farm being the likely home for Tom and Natasha Lady R.
DeleteBut as for Pat, I think she's had plenty of experience now as a grandmother to Helens boys, plus she is already wary of Natasha so might hold back from giving N advice.
I still stand by a thought of mine, from a while ago.
ReplyDeleteThe new tenant of The Bungalow, could be Stella, who will let Rex stay, as her lodger.
The Ambridge Fairy will have a great, but tiring two pre- Christmas weeks.
DeleteWho will end up living where, and who will she let out of the cupboard whilst enclosing others in, over the festive period.
Properties to consider:-
April Cottage - owner Hazel W - last known resident Dr. Locke.
Glebe Cottage - owner Jill - resident Carole T.
Rickyard Cottage - owner Brookfield - residents Pip, Toby and Rosie.
No1. The Green - owned by Will - residents Hannah and others, not sure who, but think Johny and AN Other.
Ben and Josh also want their own place.
Now I know why I love Monopoly.
Bert was the tenant of the bungalow as he had worked at Brookfield until retirement. It would seem sensible to move Josh and Ben in as they are now young men and maybe there is room for Rex as well. Presumably Brookfield is now entirely run by the family, Josh and Ben filling in gaps where necessary. I don’t think there has been any mention of other workers.
DeleteVery true Ev. I think they just employ labour from people like Eddie or Ed when required.
DeleteI wondered whether Jill might like to move to the bungalow with Leonard, which would leave more room at Brookfield for the boys. It might depend on whether they really need the rent from the bungalow.
Alternatively, Pip and Rosie (with or without Toby) could move to the bungalow and Rickyard could be rented out as a holiday cottage once again.
Perhaps Tom and Natasha could rent Bert’s bungalow in the short term at least as Hazel has curtailed their time left in the flat,giving them time to review their accommodation options with a baby now n the mix.
ReplyDeleteJill is 91 so I think the only move she is likely to make now is to The Laurels. Peggy is 97 so I think the same applies.Christine is 90. Gosh! Leonard has his own surburban semi-detached,, his age isn’t given, but I’ve been assuming he’s significantly younger than.Jill. Perhaps I’ve been wrongly influenced by the cast photos.
ReplyDeleteDon't think your alone in thinking that Leonard is quite a bit younger than Jill, Maryellen. And I'm not influenced by pictures of the cast since I haven't looked at any for months.
DeleteAnd I agree that Jill is unlikely to moving out of Brookfield farmhouse, ever.
And I would expect Peggy if she continues, to get in paid live in care, though for the time being she does have Kate on hand.
If I have to listen to Hazel mentioning her ‘darling Daddy’ in that pathetic, syrupy voice I think I shall throw up!
ReplyDelete🤮
Hear hear!
DeleteI understand your pain! I feel exactly the same when Oliver says “Dear, dear, Joe! Bless him!” In a sentimental voice.
DeleteI swear at her - Hazel- every time I hear her say it.
DeleteWhat a great omnibus listen this morning.
ReplyDeleteMy star of the week in Ambridge, has to go to Eddie. He certainly gave Hazel the run around.
BTW. Where is this new home she keeps talking about, and needs a bolt hole for several months, until it is finished - whilst also saying that she now wants to live in Ambridge.
I think she has designs on "The Lodge" as her new, forever home, as it did belong to:- "Daddy, My Daddy"
As such she needs the flat, despite the steep stairs which she supposedly puffed + panted about, for the longer term,. She first has to manipulate Peggy to leave it, no mean feat, if my wild and fanciful guess, has any credence.
Why stop at The Lodge. Perhaps she is actually after Grey Gables, ursapping Oliver?
Deleteread ursurping Oliver and GG.
DeleteSarnia says - actually Miriam I quite like 'ursapping'. It sounds a lot more fundamental than 'usurping'. I think I might have been ursapped ever since Friday, when I spent the afternoon shifting heavy pot plants around the garden in my new garden caddy.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely episode this evening.
ReplyDeleteFull of good cheer and kindness.
Thank you THe Archers team.
Oh, Mrs P, I listened to it as well, in the kitchen while preparing dinner. That's the first time since Mr S died in August 2019. The milestones are coming thick and fast at present, which is a great relief!
ReplyDeleteSo pleased that your 'getting yourself back ' Sarnia.
DeleteI don’t think that rules out Brookfield Bungalow as a home for Natasha and Tom, once the extended family have got their heads round the situation. So Pat and Tony may be spared after all.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds as if we shall be loosing Blake from the story soon. I loved his interaction with Tracy’s family last night. He actually sounded much happier and I think he now has a positive future ahead of him. But I shall very much miss this actor’s skill in portraying a frightened, cowed young man who trusted the wrong people.
ReplyDeleteAs for Natasha’s news - Tom obviously can’t keep a secret! And I was a bit surprised by Pat and Tony’s fantastically enthusiastic reaction, after Pat and Natasha’s recent encounters.
So Bridge Farm is going to be full again. I wonder what sort of mother Natasha will make?
Will she expect Pat to do the baby care while she runs the fruit juice business, or perhaps she will become a full time mother and give up on being so hands-on with the juicing.
I somehow don’t think it is all going to run smoothly and I predict lots of further tension between Natasha and the other occupants of Bridge Farm.
I think Natasha will be at least as good a mother as Helen who has ‘educated’ her parents to do baby care while she runs her dairy business!
ReplyDeleteAs Pat said though the difference this time will be daughter in law not daughter and even that had plenty of tricky moments!
DeleteWell, perhaps they can arrange a family creche. Whoever is looking after Martha at The Nest (oe wherever) while Chris is at work, could look after Baby Anon as well.
DeletePat and Tony were put in an impossible situation as had they said no to Tom and Natasha moving in it could well cause another problem between them. Pat and Natasha have already clashed so there will be fireworks ahead!
DeleteI have been wondering who is looking after Martha while Susan and Neil are at work. With all these babes needing daycare a crèche in Ambridge could go down well! It would relieve the grandparents!!
Lynda is a pseudointellectual snob and what is worse a bully. She has been for many years and is growing worse. It is surely time that someone slapped her down and very hard too. The award of an MBE does not make one royalty..
ReplyDeleteWell said Pierre. My opinion of Lynda too. I long for somebody to stand up to her and just say ‘No’!
DeleteIt’s Lynda’s voice that gets to me - it seems to have become even more exaggerated since lockdown, except when she is being kind to someone, like she was to Susan after Natasha’s onslaught. Then it returns to near normal and I can think of her as a genuine person and not a soap caricature.
DeleteThere’s always a good side and a bad side to everyone. In Lynda’s case she gets things moving and has achieved a lot in sleepy old Ambridge but the downside is that she is irritatingly bossy!! Again the different nuances of the same character are a reflection of her acting ability as in the case of the Hazel character.
DeleteI agree with each and every one of the comments above regarding Lynda Snell,
Deleteand each comment illustrates a different aspect of, as Ev says, a well acted character. But more, Lynda is too a well drawn character for which we have the SWs to thank.
Like Maryellen, it is for me the voice that irritates, but I also appreciate that it is in the essence of the voice that so much of Lynda's character is given to us.
As far as putting her down, her husband seems to be the best placed person to at least keep her in check, which he does manage to do from time to time.
I meant to comment last night and address to Miriam that the character she seems to have taken to, Stella, came across very well indeed as the person able to manage Mia.
ReplyDeleteShe was firm and kind in addressing Mia in an adult way and succeeded in diverting Mia from her intention to disrupt the shoot.
I look forward to the SWs developing this character further and showing us a more rounded person.
I found Stella's intervention talk with Mia very interesting. Stella addressed the situation in a sensible pragmatic way and managed to befriend Mia instead of antagonizing her. She spoke about the cruelty inflicted on chickens and the fact that Mia doesn't demonstrate about that plus what she was putting her stepfather through. Full marks Stella.
DeleteOver on the FB site they are already lining Will and Stella up for wedding bells! The next thing will be speculation that she is pregnant!
ReplyDeleteYou have to hand it to the scriptwriters - they know how to work the audience!!
DeleteTrying this side now…and testing.
ReplyDeleteYou’re here Mrs P 👏🏻
DeleteI think Mia is fast becoming my favourite character (after Toby, of course!)
ReplyDeleteFunny that Maryellen, cos she’s becoming one of the most disliked characters for me.
DeleteIn fact I want to give them all a good slap, can’t think of one character that I particularly like any more. Even gone off Jazzer.
Maybe it’s just because it’s the season of bah humbug!
I have mixed feelings about Mia.
DeleteSometimes I like her and her ways, at other times she irritates.
But I'm aware that she is a character in development and that pleases me.
I seem to remember that when Elizabeth's daughter Lily was in development, we had lots of likes and dislikes about her.
As for Stella, I have reason to think that Mia is barking up the wrong tree with her.
The clue is in ' Weaver ' !
Mia annoys me too P tbY .
ReplyDelete(I do like Chelsea though and her mum.)
Mind you I can count on the fingers of one hand the characters I really like.
Mia has a lot of growing up to do of course but she cares a lot about animal welfare and that alone endears her to me.
ReplyDeleteDo not comment on my new postings … please
ReplyDeleteLet’s just see if it works again next time
Well done Tracey !
ReplyDeleteWell done Ruth !
And Stella in on this momentous moment as well.
As well as Kirsty managing to rouse some gumption.
Lynda has at last gone too far.
I was delighted to hear this episode.
Since when have Ruth and Stella become such bosom buddies?
ReplyDeleteI thought they had had words over the sheep incident with Pip.
Never mind, I applaud Ruth for doing what I have longed for some one to do - telling Lynda ‘NO’ and refusing to be bullied into co- operating with her grandiose ideas.
Well done Ruth!
👏👏👏👏
Loved it!! Get in there Ruth!
ReplyDeleteYes, when did Stella and Ruth become BFF’s? 🤔
Since Ruth was encouraging Stella to come to the last big village event, the Harvest Supper in Brookfield’s barn, which was taken up by Jill’s big (farewell?) speech so we didn’t hear how Stella got on there. I was looking forward to her meeting Rex - though it’s possible she’s inclined towards women rather than men, of course.
DeleteYes Maryellen - my point made yesterday, in my reference to the clue being in Weaver.
DeleteSigourney Weaver being a lesbian icon.
Hooray for Kirsty. At last Lynda has had some comeuppance and then had it rubbed in
ReplyDeleteI did notice that Lynda managed a mention that she had been away to be awarded her MBE.Pompous and self aggrandizing at even the smallest chance. Let’s hope she has learned a lesson. ✌️
Yes, I picked up on that too Pierre.
DeleteJust to make sure Stella knew she had been awarded a gong.
That really is bad form!
At last Kirsty stood up to Lynda. It was about time and let's hope Lynda will realize a few things about herself now.
ReplyDeleteAt long last, last night there was mention of Vince having problems at the abattoir due to lack of staff
ReplyDeleteAnd Stella actually spoke about problems at Berrow because they cannot get the pigs processed and will have to cull them on the farm
TA catches up with an important farming story that’s been going on for months.
(i do know it’s partially due to scripts being written weeks in advance, but a story that affects several characters in Ambridge could have been mentioned sooner I think)
Heads up for next weeks ‘Feedback’
ReplyDeleteKirsty will be telling the world what she really thinks about Lynda Snell.
Maryellen - your last point about Stella.
ReplyDeleteThat was my reference to the clue being in Weaver, and Mia barking up the wrong tree.
Sigourney Weaver being a lesbian icon.
Sorry for comment twice.
ReplyDeleteDidn’t show first time round.
I seem to be having problems getting published.
Nevertheless am grateful to be hear at all !
Hear ?
DeleteHere !
Here, here, Mrs P……I’m glad you are here too!
Delete