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Life in Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
THIS POST IS CLOSED "longer off topic comments" - Episode 14 Life Outside Ambridge Have a seat and let's chat.
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ReplyDeleteOldWomanInAShoe - February 15, 2022 at 9:39 PM
I had been prepared to believe that Brian's offer of rent free accomodation had been made out of genuine concern for the well-being of his granddaughter and soon-to-be-ex son-in-law. Well, it was possible ...
Thing is, I don't see Chris as the sort of guy who'd want to take his ex for every penny she's got. And I doubt his pride would let him anyway. He's built up his business and earnt a good reputation, does he really want to end up well off only thanks to the largesse of the local squire?
Not sure about Amy. Yes, there is an attraction for Chris, and it may be reciprocated. But she's also Alice's friend and confidante.I think any romance at this stage could cause an awful lot of fall-out. Later on, when the dust has settled, possibly, but not a good idea at present.
I don't think she is scheming, Miriam. I think she realises the attraction and is trying to fight it. But she also wants to support and help Chris. A difficult balancing act, I imagine. But I may well be wrong, perhaps she does have her sights set on being the next Mrs Carter. THat will cause some interesting episodes ...
Pierre les Corbeaux - February 16, 2022 at 9:52 AM
I have to agree with OWIAS’s analysis of Amy. No scheming just circumstances.
maryellen - February 16, 2022 at 7:06 AM
I think Amy is meant to be the polar opposite of Brian Aldridge - completely straightforward, guileless and well-meaning, but maybe not as adept at managing social relationships as she is at professional ones. As I suggested earlier, BA is being a total hypocrite - every time he cosies up to Chris, my skin creeps! I hope Chris’s lawyer points out that Chris needs all the money he can reasonably expect In order to safeguard Martha’s future,
Portia - February 16, 2022 at 9:22 AM
On the face of it,when Brian mentioned to Neil that he hoped to offer Chris rent free tenancy to one of the holiday cottages,it seemed an ideal solution,as there is no getting away from the fact that the flat above the village shop has severe limitations for the upbringing of a toddler.It was obvious,though that Neil,while seeing the advantages in Brian’s suggestion,had some reservations about relaying the details to Chris,especially at the moment when he is still recovering from shingles.However,Chris may think it is a good plan,but as he is usually,fiercely independent I guess he will only accept on the condition that he pays rent and not feel completely beholden to the Aldridge’s.
As others have said before,I don ‘t think Chris would intend to lay claim to Alice’s share in Home Farm in the divorce settlement as feared by Brian.
Hilary - February 16, 2022 at 10:21 AM
I thought I detected a spark between Amy and Rex at The Bull on Valentine’s Day.
Well Gary, that man in the cover photo is in a dangerous position.....I think he needs a flame-proof apron at the very least....
ReplyDelete🤣😂🤣
Delete🤣😉
DeleteI think Amy and Rex would chime very well with each other and perhaps she might consider coming on board for the rewinding.She has stated before that,having resigned from her midwifery job ,she is looking for a different career path.
ReplyDeleteSorry,I meant ‘rewilding’ re Amy.I really must reread my posts before sending!
ReplyDelete😀 Rewinding/ rewilding .....boils down to the same thing more or less!
DeleteHilary, I thought the same thing about Amy and Rex.
ReplyDeleteBrian A is getting worse -
ReplyDeleteWhich is driving me to verse -
He’d like to see the back of Chris
(Perhaps you don’t agree with this)
And possibly of Martha too,
‘Cos she is Chris’s through and through;
If not, the future’s pretty grim,
She could turn out to be like him!
(If you’re missing Bert Fry’s poetry,
Fret not friends, you’ve still got me!)
😂😂
DeleteI still think Amy has designs on both Chris and Martha, but that is my thought only.
ReplyDeleteAmy is still being very supportive to Alice as a friend and helper, but this doesn't mean that she has is not looking out for a life for herself.
Whilst waiting to listen to tonights Archers, I am loving listening to Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam in "Conservations from a Long Marriage". I am enjoying this, yet again.
ReplyDeleteYes, me too! They are perfect together!
DeleteRex, please don’t be bamboozled into taking Kate on! She will take over and turn your project into something you really don’t want. I thought Peggy sounded great tonight and you wouldn’t think she was over 100! At least she isn’t putting undue pressure on Rex to accept Kate. I still think in terms of Alice but maybe as some of you have said, a new character and maybe Rex will find love at last!
Indeed Ev, June Spencer will be 102yrs in just 4 mths time - unbelievable! Even as Peggy over 90yrs and texting like a good un it seems 👏🏻
DeleteIf I was Rex I'd be wanting to look at the finances of Spiritual Home before considering Kate.
ReplyDeleteFor once I really want the whole business of proper application to the business and procedure of job application to be attended to.
ReplyDeleteFollow every rule of good practice Rex, please, and don’t let Kate through the door again. If you do, she will roller coaster everything that you and Phoebe have achieved so far, and it will break Phoebe’s heart.
And what about the Pargetter girl. Might she be a good fit for the job ?
Of course I totally agree with your sentiments re job applications and procedures to be followed, as, I suspect, do most of the followers of this blog, but it will be very boring for listeners and contributors if everyone involved follows the rules. We wouldn't have anything to discuss and complain (commiserate?) about.
DeleteWell, either Peggy is the wise old bird she's cracked up to be, and Kate is the right person for the job - or Kate is the wrong person for the job and Peggy is not the wise old bird she's cracked up to be. Which will it be??
ReplyDeleteStart advertising quick Rex.
ReplyDeleteDon't take on Kate whatever you do Rex!
ReplyDeleteI do read your fantastic comments but don't often give my own now. I just think that Kate was great when talking to Peggy about the project but as soon as Peggy started to talk to Rex about it she was putting pressure on him to take her on - unless it was a double blind to point out to Rex that he didn't have to!!!
ReplyDeleteMaryellen could be right and, maybe, Peggy's a wise old bird
When Kate appeared she was a nightmare and projecting 'I'm the best thing since sliced bread'. Unless the SWs change her attitude again there's no way that Rex and she can work together.
Rex sounded fairly strong though.
I am amazed at Rex's capacity to run his pig business single-handed, and to do what sounds like a full-time job with the Rewilding Project. Hopefully, Phoebe is working out her notice and he hasn't got to run that single-handedly for long. And is he still taxi driving? The poor bloke must be dead on his feet when he gets back to the bungalow - no wonder he hasn't noticed the change of decor. He doesn't seem fussed about moving out, though.
ReplyDeleteMy take:-
ReplyDeletePeggy is indeed "a Wise Old Bird" pushing Kate forwards.
Kate showed herself, not wanting to do any hard work, eg the loo's.
Well Done Peggy, for showing how unsuitable Kate is.
Rex so knows this.
It is a dream job for Kirsty. She has now sorted things out with Tom, so can now go forwards with a different view on her life.
To add where will Rex live?
Deletea) He takes Pheobe's room at Willow Farm
b) Toby + Rex move into Glebe Cottage, as Carole T. moves out.
c) The flat above the shop, with Chris moving into a cottage next to Alice.
d) The Bungalow Annexe, as Jazzer moves in with Tracy in her home on The Green.
e) Is there a spare room in Will's place at No1 The Green?
Just my ideas. I believe Rex is here to stay firmly in Ambridge.
I hope Rex is here to stay. I hoped the same thing about Toby but he seems to have wafted off to more interesting places.
DeleteSo glad you're still here, Miriam, and I hope you decide to stay.
There's going to be room in Roy's house Miriam
ReplyDeleteWhat happens to the Beechwood house? Will Helen buy it? Or will Kirsty go through a letting agent?
ReplyDeleteAfter all Kirsty has experienced in Ambridge, for what 21yrs now, why has she suddenly decided to move so far away?
ReplyDeleteShe is leaving all those who have supported her, in so many ways, and a lot of very sincere and true friends, both young and old, such as Jill, Helen, Roy, Oliver etc..
She will be missed.
Forgot the two other strong women who so love Kirsty, in differing ways:-
DeleteLinda and Joy.
If any-one can talk sense into Kirsty, these two could.
I think that it will do Kirsty good to get away from Ambridge.
DeleteYes, she’s been saying for a long time how unsatisfactory her life is, and there should be more to it than following towels. Now at last she is taking the major step that was needed. The job should suit her well, she has experience of the hotel environment and this sounds an improvement on her present one without being too challenging for her management skills. Let’s hope she meets a nice Bulgarian (if she actually goes, and doesn’t get cold feet at the last minute! I do hope she does.)
DeleteIt's nice that a couple of young women in Ambridge are showing a bit of ambition at last.
ReplyDeleteThe job sounds better suited to Roy, and I’d like him to reconnect with Lexi, but It is good to hear Kirsty taking control of her life.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like Alice is getting involved with the stables which is probably helpful at the moment, whether that would be a long term option I am not sure.
We can assume that Ambridge will be unaffected by the storm as there are no episodes until Sunday!
Maybe Roy will follow, as he originally intended?
DeleteI wish we had an uptick for comments we don't wish to respond to but would like to acknowledge.
ReplyDelete✔ if you have icons on whatever you use there is normally a tick.
DeleteI am not sure about this idea.
DeleteTo start with a ✔from some, could then lead onto ❌ from others.
I just feel that these could be mis-interpreted, to then result in upset.
This could spoil this site.
But if others like this idea and it is so adopted, then it has to be accepted.
A wild thought re the re-wilding project.
ReplyDeleteWhat about Will?
Mia would love helping him out in her own way.
That’s an interesting idea Miriam, Will could do with a proper job again. I do suspect however that he lacks the inter-personal skills. I think Phoebe has been doing the liaising with the outside world and admin, neither of which are Will’s forte.
ReplyDeleteWill does have inter-personal skills. It was with those who partook in "The Shoots" - in which he took a major part, if I recall correctly.
DeleteAgree with both KP and Miriam re Wills interpersonal skills.
DeleteBut also that the rewilding would be a good fit for Will, but initially as assistant to Rex on the land in a practical capacity. And what he lacks in IP skills he would more than compensate in rural skills, husbandry and knowledge.
Wouldn’t the same apply to Ed and Eddie? On that basis, they’re as well suited as Will. Personally, I don’t think any of them could do Phoebe’s job. Perhaps Rex should swap his job for Phoebe’s as there seem to be quite a few suggestions who could do his job better than hers.
DeleteNo ME. Not the same as Ed and Eddy who are farmers ( well Eddy is a farmer of sorts ! )
DeleteWill was a gamekeeper. The opposition to his father the poacher.
Agree Rex might be able to cover Phoebes work, but I don’t think he would enjoy it much.
I don’t follow your argument Mrs P. Surely the farmers would be more versed in husbandry etc etc than the gamekeeper? Of course, In fairytale Ambridge, people are amazingly quick learners - when and how did Rex acquire hedge-laying skills? And Kirsty was offered a job on the doorstep solely because Rex likes her. Come to think of it, that was Rex’s sole qualification for managing Neil’s pigs - he seemed a nice chap. Huh!
DeleteI suppose I meant that Will has land management skills which would be transferable. But then so would a farmer I suppose.
DeleteSo perhaps my argument doesn’t hold water.
I think Rex and Phoebe should ask Pip if she would consider returning to the project - it’s worth a try!
DeleteThis is an Archers/Ambridge related comment, but it is very much "off topic" as to the current S/L.
ReplyDeleteThis might be the wrong place to post this observation, so I apologise in advance.
Ambridge has some cottages which have thatched roofs. Has there been a time, when such a roof has had to be re-done, and if one needs replacing soon - how will it be paid for??
I am thinking of Glebe Cottage and Honeysuckle Cottage.
Blossom Hill Cottage - is this still owned by Usha?
DeleteThere are still many missing characters, but there are also properties, with the current residents. I would still love to know who took over the Home Farm house and why Jennifer still has chattels + clothes, stored in a barn.
These surely by now, must be far from perfect!
There's a new estate been built in my home town. Most of the houses have tiled roofs but one is thatched. Apparently it's the builder's trademark.
DeleteIt helps keep the skills alive, but it does seem odd just to thatch the one house. I wonder what the new owners will decide to do when the thatch needs renewing?
Agree Miriam regarding properties. One assumes B & J are paying a storage fee to the owners of their old home 🤔 and will the owners of their rental ever return or maybe they will buy it from them. After all age wise and with no “children” currently living with them….
DeleteI think only the house was sold, the land and buildings on it still belong to Home Farm. The farm office is also housed in the barn so it must be kept in good nick!
DeleteI still predict, that Stella is the one who will take over The Bungalow. However maybe it could be Hannah, so Rex takes her place in No.1 The Green..
ReplyDeleteI expect Kirsty will leave Ambridge.
ReplyDeleteThis will be just for 3 months or so. She is taking a risk as to the job found by Lexi. This though is so understandable at this time, but she feels she needs to have time away.
She though will return.
This is when she realises, just how much she misses that perfect village with all its wonderful residents.
This is in a similar way, many others here also do.
Bonus points to Miriam! Stella in the bungalow and Jim & Jazzer invited to Martha’s birthday.
ReplyDeleteThe Archers S/Ws seem to be really back, teasing us listeners yet again!
ReplyDeleteThere are so many sub plots being introduced, in a quiet + subtle way, with different and unexpected characters and relationships.
How these progress, will be interesting to follow.
An example - Jim + Chelsey..Then there is Pip + Stella, when Stella moves into The Bungalow...
and so Ambridge Life will go on.
It might become different, but times change.
Just thought that I would my give my thoughts as times are changing - nothing more nor less.
DeleteRex - where is he moving to?
ReplyDeleteI thought Willow Farm was viable, but now No 1 The Green, seems more probable 🤷♀️
Rex said t's somewhere that Rosie will want to keep visiting. From his comments, I think it's somewhere unusual - he wouldn't be so mysterious for somewhere like No 1 The Green.
DeleteAre there any suitable buildings at Lower Loxley? After all, it would be convenient for the pigs.
I am waiting, in eager anticipation to know, where Rex will now rest his head.
DeleteI did consider Brookfield, but they don't have a spare room.
Has he done a deal with Linda, or even Kenton + Jolene in The Bull?
Then there is that, Joy takes in a lodger 🤷♀️
I thought that I heard him say something about having a house warming party, it would have to be somewhere suitable for that.
DeleteIs Toby still living at Rickyard with Pip?
I am at a loss, but then I am no good at cryptic crosswords. I cannot decipher the many hints + clues, already given...
DeleteI did at one time think that, Rex would stay at The Bungalow as Stella's lodger.
DeleteHe has however, packed up and got rid of a lot of his chattels, so this isn't happening.
I interpreted what Rex said the mean he had got his own place rather than a room in someone else’s. I also thought of Lower Loxley - what happened the cottage Lewis had on the estate? Does it go with the gallery job and Russ and Lily now have it? Or are they still in the house itself and the cottage is empty?
DeleteMy last and most silly idea - a lodger in Glebe Cottage with Carole T. and to take on Berts role in the garden?
DeleteA left field suggestion for Rex's move, a houseboat on the Am.
ReplyDeleteThat does sound rather good, CC! But how would Rex manage to get it there without anyone noticing? I’ve never thought of the Am as a houseboaty sort of river - but could easily rethink!
DeleteIt's been quite a while since we've heard anything from Joy. She likes to be involved in village life so much that, surely, she should have popped up somewhere. Maybe the actress who plays her is ill but I hope not.
ReplyDeleteJust had a thought about Rex ..... Didn't Adam have caravans for the strawberry pickers, where Lexi lived? R did say that he wanted to do some cleaning, so he would be unlikely to be moving into an already shared situation and he does sound as if he wants to be independent, so maybe.....?
ReplyDeleteWhat about a renovated barn on the Rewilding Project? A place of his own, not too big, which is why he has to declutter, somewhere he could throw a housewarming party and Rosie could visit, and a rent Rex could afford (or maybe it comes with the job - so to speak). Ticks all the boxes??
ReplyDeleteJust developing my theory, if I’ve got this right, the Rewilding Project Office is in a converted barn - so Rex could be living over or alongside the office. And he wouldn’t have had to involve anyone else in the arrangement (as he would have done if he was moving into someone else’s property) which is how he can keep it a secret, though from what Pip said, I gather Toby knows.
DeleteBrilliant suggestion Maryellen! (Yes, here I am again for am odd comment!)
DeleteWelcome, Archerphile! Nothing odd about that comment! (Joke!)
DeleteYes, I like that!
ReplyDeleteCould well be, Maryellen! Rex said it was somewhere Rosie would like , so maybe near the piggies!
DeleteRegarding Rex’s pigs, I want to know how he is getting them to market or abattoir and if there is any danger of them having to be culled, as thousands are around the country at present.
ReplyDeleteI think this problem is about to be aired at Berrow as thé SWs cannot ignore the situation for much longer.
I am with Anneveggie 100% - in that I also want to hear from Joy again.
ReplyDeleteFor some reason I have really warmed to this strange, yet mysterious person. I especially enjoy how she can stand up to Linda.
Helen, Lee + boys in the Beechwood home (rented from Kirsty?), have also been silent for a long while.
DeletePerhaps as neighbours, this soon will happen.
Hopefully Stan 😺 is now better behaved than Hilda, his mum! 🙀
DeleteIt seems between us all, every possibility of where Rex will now live, has been covered!
ReplyDeleteI am at a loss, as to where this will be.
I look forward to the Big Reveal, whenever.
Rex is having a house warming on Sunday so not long to wait!
DeleteI do wonder if any-one has guessed correctly...there could still be a surprise reveal 🤫
DeleteIt is many decades since i was a young man - but having scheming females pushing a potential mate was extremely annoying and almost always did not work. How Rex does not explode at the smug marital relations expert, Alice - a pending divorcee, is way beyond my ken. Surely more interesting padding of the script could easily have been found. Way above the boredom quotient.
ReplyDeleteI completly agree. Tedious.
DeleteI hope Alice isn’t going to be one of those mothers who treat their baby like a fashion accessory!
DeleteWell, I don’t like to boast, but I did predict pig-tastrophy at Berrow yesterday!
ReplyDeleteAt long last the biggest story in the agricultural industry in this country at present has been acknowledged by TA.
We personally know of 2 ex pig farming colleagues whose animals have had to be culled and one who has been forced out of his life-long business by the inability to sell his pigs due to the crisis at abattoirs. Now Berrow is feeling the effects too.
Neil and Hannah and their staff, including Jazzer, face loosing their jobs.
The scene is set for another confrontation between Brian, Martin and Justin.
Goodness only knows how Rex is getting his pigs to market or is going to make a profit out of them.
But I did notice a slightly different Hannah last night. Softer, more grounded and actually pleasant to Neil for once. I hope it continues if she is to stay in the programme.
I agree regarding Hannah AP. I was dreading her return to the TA on her previous form. We already have Stella and Natasha as really strong characters so nice to hear a softer side to Hannah, and yes the pig situation certainly needed airing to keep the programme credible.
DeleteIt appears that I am alone in my hopes for Alice + Chris.
ReplyDeleteThis is to just postpone the divorce, in the short term.
This is not to "kiss + make up" as such, but more to realise that both can be more friendly together and can sort things out in a far more amicable way.
I do wonder how much Susan is influencing Chris - in that, "Chris, get exactly what is due to you".
I am not sure if Alice, now really wants Martha to live with Chris, on a permanent level, with only pre-arranged visiting rights.
Why not two different Birthday Parties - a Carter one and an Aldridge one?
At least all, in some way, can be included in a least one.
Martha won't realise.
DeleteSounds reasonable to me Miriam.
Deletea bit idyllistic, I know and I accept this.
DeleteI can but hope and feel, that an interimn solution is a possibility, rather than burning all the bridges, too soon.
I think Chris's position is that he needs a firm basis now from which he and Martha can move on, and that's why he took the initiative with the divorce arrangements when Alice wasn't getting round to it - although she was adamant that's what she wanted. Like she was adamant she had to get away (and then stayed with her parents before moving back to base), and was adamant she needed a job (but gave up when the easy Home Farm option didn't work out).
DeleteI think we all need to remember ( including Chris ) that Alice still has a long way to go on her journey away from alcohol.
DeleteDo you mean Alice’s flakiness is all down to her alcoholism and/or attempts to recover from? Hmm!
DeleteHow clever Brian has been, in accidentaly leaving a piece of paper on the printer so Hannah could see + read it.
ReplyDeleteTitle "Closure of Berrow"
Now she will tell Neil and so this S/L, hopefully is not a "fait accompli" with the loss of jobs affecting so many.
I do though understand the abbatoir situation etc.
Does Tom still employ a butcher at his unit at Sawyers? Could this help in some way with the Berrow situation 🐷🐖 🤷♀️
Well that was a bit sudden! One moment we hear Amy and Rex having a drink, next we hear Amy getting dressed and talking to Chris about one night stands…….
ReplyDeleteTonight's ending surprised me. I thought that because Amy had been on a date with Rex it must be him she was with, and was surprised when it turned out to be Chris.
ReplyDeleteAnd if she gets pregnant.............................!
ReplyDelete.....Mmm. Interesting and a great idea.....
DeleteLove it.
Amy + Chris - This could well give a different slant as to the mediation + divorce, IF it ever becomes known.
ReplyDeleteTo think Amy has seemed to be such a supporter to Alice and Martha, or actually was she?
This was not shown, in the recent happenings..
Amy managed to acheive what she wanted after her clever + subtle schemes.
What on earth was that ending!!!! I know Chris sounded jealous of Rex’s date with Amy but I can’t believe she was stupid enough to be copping off with her best friends “still husband”.
ReplyDeleteWhat a slapper.
Wow that was sudden. I thought Amy was with Rex as they'd been getting on so well but no it was Chris!! What was she thinking - what was he thinking. They weren't thinking at all I suppose.
DeleteDitto Anneveggie 😮 it will hit the fan sometime soon now I guess!
Delete“What a slapper” - same goes for Chris - why does the woman always get blamed?
DeleteI think the scriptwriters have just made a very big mistake.
I agree. Chris’s fault too. What a cad!! Lol
DeleteI wonder if Alice had at some level picked up on the attraction between Amy and Chris and that was why she’d been pushing Amy into Rex’s arms. Poor old Rex, discarded again.
ReplyDeleteI think Alice is going to be horribly upset when she discovers what has happened, and it will come out, this is Ambridge after all.
The divorce is going to get messy methinks, it has already been getting fraught and you rarely get amicable divorces in real life, let alone in fiction.
It was a “happenstance”. Why does anyone have to have been scheming towards this.
ReplyDeleteCan’t agree that Amy is a slapper or that Chris is anything worse than a hurt and lonely man.
I agree with you entirely, Pierre. I would like Chris and Amy to end up together but hoped it would occur more slowly and elegantly than this. Remembering the Alice/Harrison incident, I think Alice (should she learn of last night's affair) could show the same tolerance as Chris did.
DeleteI have gazed into my crystal ball, and can reveal that Hannah has been brought back into play to replace Phoebe on the rewilding project (after being made redundant at Berrow) and be a partner for Rex. Wild pigs will be introduced, although they can be a pain judging by a friend's story of encountering them in Corsica, so maybe these will be semi-domesticated.
ReplyDeleteI'm not worried about Neil being made redundant because he's due for retirement anyway , and he certainly sounds like it. No wonder Hannah is being extra nice to him. He can always sell some of his unused acres, if cash is a problem. As for Jazzer, someone is sure to , quite frightening even, bail him out, because I fear he's a permanent fixture in the active cast list.
Brilliant idea as to Hannah taking over from Phoebe.
DeleteI though am not so sure if this will suit her. She would be more to Stella's liking at Home Farm.
The one I fear for is Jazzer, if things go badly.
I am off to re-write my thoughts about the Alice/Chris divorce.
DeleteThings could certainly change now, and not in a very pleasant way.
My 'quite frightening even', should refer to the wild pigs, not Jazzer's future, which doesn't interest me personally. Maybe the rewilded pigs could have arcs made of woven willow twigs - very Kate!
Delete🤣
DeleteWill the current situation in Eastern Europe affect Kirsty's plans? It is surely too serious for TA to ignore or 'tone down' as happened with coronavirus She may be there already, of course.
ReplyDeleteI have seriously doubted whether she would go ever since she first announced her intention.
DeleteI think Phoebe will try to deter her, as with both of them leaving, her Dad would be left on his own. And I agree, even though scripts are written several weeks in advance the situation cannot be disregarded.
(If you are interested) Arthur Hughes, the actor who plays Ruairi Donovan is playing Richard III at Stratford-upon-Avon this Spring. He has radial dysplasia of the right arm.
ReplyDeleteMrNuts and I are off to Stratford to see Henry VI parts 2 & 3 at Easter, we’ll be looking to see the Richard III soon after, tickets weren’t on general release last time I looked, A lot of Archers actors do stage work, we’ve seen quite a few over the years.
ReplyDeleteTonight is the big reveal, as to Rex and his new home.
ReplyDeleteAfter this morning's 10-11am listen, there were many subtle, yet tantalising hints, given throughout the weekly episodes.
I still am confused, but I think Maryellen was right, in that it is a "pickers" caravan at Home Farm.
Stella + Rex were great together, so I still stand by a thought I made a while ago, that he will become her lodger in a couple of months.
Meant Bridge Farm..
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteRex has kept his new home such a secret, so I hope all his guests actually find him!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to whoever it was, who suggested a boat on The Am.
ReplyDeleteA massive 🌟
Oh, very well guessed, Cheshire Cheese!
ReplyDeleteJust got back in time from a visit to my daughter and family to listen to TA. Didn't expect to be right about the houseboat.
ReplyDeleteJust a Brilliant idea and it will be lovely new home for Rex.
DeleteWell thought.
I am confused though, where the boat actually is, being only a 10mins walk from The Bull.
DeleteI need to find a map of Ambridge.
Well I didn’t see that coming Rex Fairbrother! Sounds intriguing though….
ReplyDeleteLovely idea but I don’t think thé SWs have done their research.
ReplyDeleteIt is very difficult to get permission to moor a narrow (or any other) boat permanently on a river or canal. Normally a boat has to be moved every few days to a new mooring. Rex would have needed permission and a licence from The British Waterways Board and the local council.
He may well be able to get his electricity from solar panels but where is he going to dispose of ‘grey water’, never mind the contents of his toilet tank. There are very strict regulations about this and I doubt the Am has proper disposal points as are usually provided on Canals.
This was a pretty idea for a story, possibly influenced by the number of TV programmes about canals and houseboats in recent months. But if you are going to cash in on a popular trend you need to ensure the story is watertight! (sorry!)
I’m concerned about all the practicalities too (liked the pun, Archerphile!). Does the Am have a towpath for foot access? What about the risk of the Am flooding again? Where does Rex keep his car/taxi? Who owns the river meadow where the boat is moored? Summer is ahead, but will the romance wear off come winter? Aren’t there surer ways of getting a foot on the property ladder? Etc.......
DeletePS. I thought Rex’s guests sounded rather underwhelmed. They gave me the impression that they’d prefer to be back sitting in The Bull instead of standing around on a riverbank on a February night (I grew up on the banks of the Great Ouse and know all about their discomforts such as stinging nettles and cow plops). Maybe the guests we didn’t hear were more enthusiastic!
DeletePPS. Can Rex swim?.
I shared all the concerns of ARCHERPHILE and Maryellen, then decided……
ReplyDelete“well, it’s The Archers isn’t it “
But agree, sloppy research yet again.
I noticed that Arkwright Hall was mentioned and if they own the land alongside the river then they will own the half of the riverbed from their side, and will have established rights to it. Perhaps Rex has come to an arrangement with the owners of the Hall. Inland rivers are dealt with differently than tidal ones. My sister in law and her husband lived on a canal boat that they brought over from Holland. It was lovely, and they even managed to get her upright piano on to it, and lived for several years there until they could afford to start buying a house.
ReplyDeleteP.s they did pay fees for mooring there though.
DeleteWell, maybe I’ve imagined this wrongly, and the boat is moored where the river runs past the church and houses so the bank is probably all or partly built up and parking and other amenities are not far away. Still leaves unanswered questions though. But as you say, Mrs P, this is Ambridge-world!
ReplyDeleteYes, and the wretched Ambidge unreality fairy will have been waving her wand to cope with all the little details!
DeletePerhaps Rex is not going to use a loo on the boat and will be popping into the gents in the Bull, when necessary!
It’s funny, but it’s the toilet question that most worries me.
Probably worrying his party guests too, Archerphile!
DeleteThe party guests must have had a chilly time and no loos too!!
DeleteGood luck to Rex in his new watery abode.
The boat's own engine and/or a small portable generator will supply and be supplemented with solar panels. Loo and gash disposal might involve a bit of a trek but that would have been thought through. If there is a convenient water supply ( Corporation Pop - not the river) Rex will be comfortably self contained.
ReplyDeleteIt is an idealistic world for Rex at the moment. As many have said, is it practical + realistic though?
ReplyDeleteBut to repeat others - It is Ambridge, and I don't mind these nuances, to keep all together in their village location + community.
It reminds me of the radio programme (totally awful), something like, Please invade our Village carefully. It when a little village is encased by a big dome, so all are there to stay, no way in nor out.
I immediately thought of Ambridge, for some reason!
I enjoyed Pheobe + Kirsty chatting together.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if any plans will be changed?
Heading to a Roy & Kirsty item - eventually 🤔 (and Amy is guilt ridden of course)
ReplyDeleteThey will surely just stay as Good Friends, who understand each other in so many ways, wherever Kirsty decides to live - be it in Ambridge or alongside Lexi in Bulgaria.
DeletePerhaps Lexi might return to Ambridge for a visit, and who knows what will then happen next.
Great news!
ReplyDeleteAccording to an official answer from The Archers, to a tweeted questions,plans are afoot to resume Friday episodes!
No date mentioned so could be some months yet…..but it’s under preparation now!
😃👏🏻👏🏻😃
🤞🏼 Archerphile that all goes well!
DeleteThanks for the info AP.
DeleteI also miss the Friday episode + the sometimes "cliffhanger". Remember when?
It surely can be done again, esp. as the normal nightly episodes are now just 12mins, rather than the previous 15mins ones.
I wait in eager anticipation, to learn more.
Keep us informed.
Today is Shrove Tuesday, but now more known as Pancake Day.
ReplyDeleteI bet there is not an Ambridge pancake race, yet again, this year.
I would like to hear a mention though, maybe just in passing.
I hopefully want to hear a bit more - who knows 🙅♀️
Stella seems to be taking on The Bungalow.
ReplyDeleteWill she take in a lodger?
If so:-
Rex, Hannah or Kirsty are my thoughts.
But perhaps not.
So it seems that Jazzer will be let go first. But why?
ReplyDeleteHe does the real hard graft caring for the pigs, and is very skillfull doing this in whatever weathers.
He probably only earns the minimum wage plus a bit extra. Why then are two managers on high salaries kept on, as surely it would be better to lose one of these. A valued worker would then still there to look after the livestock, with just one manager overseeing all, be it Neil or Hannah.
..downsize and consolidate in the interimn, until times are better.
DeleteNeil explained it would have to be ‘ last in, first out’ when it came to job losses which would mean Jazzer; although Jazzer was the person he would want to loose.
Delete...but to lose Jazzer, one of the most reliable workers, who is prepared to suddenly be called in to help, is not sensible business practice.
DeleteRemember he went in to secure a lose ark and then check on the others in a storm.
Sorry Miriam . I mis-typed
DeleteShould have said Jazzer was the LAST person Neil wanted to loose!
Did I miss the divorce Chris? You are a single man…….However you are only talking sex not a relationship.
ReplyDelete(Not that I should judge 😏)
Lady R I absolutely agree with you. He should at least show a little regard for Amy’s reasoning and stop charging like a bull at a gate. It is yet another character reversal and he has become a bully.
DeleteBy the way what is all the fuss of being seen kissing? I sometimes greet female friends with a kiss and I cannot see how the kiss of Chris and Amy would be exaggerated in importance in a place where both they and the situation are well known.
It is not “Corrie”
Far be it for me to make an excuse for a man, but I didn’t feel that it was a character change in Chris.
DeleteI felt more that he was clinging to the sudden light that he saw in his life.
Chris is, right now, a very confused and unhappy man and clinging on to, and becoming needy by over riding Amy’s reasoning seems to me part of his current panic and confusion due to his emotional pain.
It sounded more than a greeting, Pierre! Even if the two are meant for each other, it is a bit soon to embark on a relationship before the divorce is even through. They will have to work at keeping it secret which makes it just as stealthy as the other woman (or man!) syndrome. Amy is a bit too close to home and she is right that it could cause a lot of heartache all round.
DeleteAs Chris is not actually divorced yet he is not really 'single'. He seems over-keen on rushing into a relationship with Amy which doesn't ring true to me. Surely he is grieving his marriage and that adjustment will take time.
DeleteI thought the bit about who, if anyone, saw the kiss was quite funny.
Perhaps I did not make myself perfectly clear. I wholeheartedly agree with AP, Ev and Anneveggie.
ReplyDelete....I can only hope.
ReplyDeleteThe Ambridge Fairy did not help Freda Fry, Nigel, Nick, John Archer, and more. I hope she gets it right this time, and also helps Kirsty to do what she wants, short-term.
🧚
The original post, to which this was just an extra, was both published + visible for the 3rd time.
DeleteIt has gone,yet again!!!
I give up..😱
Three long posts, published and on site, have suddenly disappeared into the ether. It was all about Chris/Amy/Alice + Martha...but can't re-post for the 4th time.
DeleteOnly I will know if my thoughts will be correct.
DeleteHint - a Happy Family ending..
I would like the happy family ending to be Chris+Amy+Martha+sibs. I don’t think any family ending with Alice in it would be happy. Sadly.
ReplyDeleteIt will be interesting though, in the many future months.
DeleteI reckon July/August for the final outcome to be known.
Any happy families don't seem to be allowed to stay that way in The Archers.
ReplyDeleteThe Ambridge Cricket Team:-
ReplyDeleteThe Cricket tea ☑
Cricket bats ☑
Cricket leg pads ☑
Zimmer frames ☑
I was shocked by Fallon’s interfering, over the top, moralistic outburst. It seems she had made a special trip to throw her paddy.
ReplyDeleteAmy’s reasoning with Chris was to prevent any damage to Alice - Fallon didn’t seem to want to take that consequence into account.
Who made her Witch-finder General and minister for morals in Borsetshire? Of course she has the spotless behavior of her Mother and Sid as a shining example.
“There’s non so pure as the purified”
Plc, yes, she was really immature wasn't she?
ReplyDeleteMy main reaction was sheer boredom though, I am not interested or engaged. I wonder if this is a device to bring forward an acrimonious divorce?
I shared that thought.
DeleteI would not describe my feelings as shocked but I was certainly engaged by Fallons outburst and like Mistral and PlC found her moralistic attitude and interference as out of order.
DeleteThe thought of this being a device to bring forward an unpleasant divorce is interesting.
I do hope Fallon does not take it upon herself to inform Alice of the situation.
I'm surprised that Fallon didn't call them out when she saw them embracing as she's so outraged. She does sound determined to inform Alice though. She needs to calm down and realize that this news may send Alice back on the bottle.
DeleteIt's not the first time I've been surprised by Fallon's reactions. The proposed baptism of Harrison sent her into a panic which was ridiculous.
Like Mistral, I am bored with this storyline and found both the bedroom scene between Chris and Amy, and Fallon’s almost hysterical out burst last night, unrealistic, contrived and SWs clutching at straws to prolong and complicate the approaching divorce.
DeleteIf truth be told, I am just fed up to the back teeth with Alice, Chris and their problems and all the other folk who seem to be drawn into this sorry tale
I far more enjoyed Leonard’s suggestion of a veterans’ Cricket team and hereby offer my services as a veteran scorer. There might just be a little sunlight shining on Ambridge this summer after all.
Couldn't agree more Archerfile. I might have to take another break from TA as it's depressing me so much.
DeleteI have found it increasingly difficult to really like Fallon over the past couple of years - but thought it might be 'just me'! Quite a few of her reactions have been overloud and questionable. This is just the latest and most extreme. . I'm interested in Alice's alcoholism story, but not all the side trackings. Which is why I'm not sure whether an extra episode a week is a good thing or not - definitely not if it's going to lead to more of this kind of thing.
ReplyDelete"Alcoholism" is for life and that cannot be shunned, nor ignored. Alice is still only in her first year, as a recovering alcoholic, which can take years before true acceptance. This is based on a non-blood family member, who I have seen struggle.
ReplyDeleteAlice has made massive steps forward so far, especially finally feeling like a true mother to Martha.
My views seem to be opposite to quite a few others, in that the SW/s have a crafty plan afoot, resulting in:-
1) An amicable divorce, with no angst. The custody of Martha, the finances sorted out, so Chris + Martha rent an available cottage eg Bluebell when Usha's tenants move away.
2) It becomes a nasty divorce, with allegations being slung back + forwards, so ends up in a court hearing with a bitter end.
3) All ends "Happily Ever After" with a renewal of marital vows + a baptism for Martha.
It will be a long wait, which I am looking forward to. I expect twists + turns, friendships being questioned, so a Friday episode would help.
I am comparing this situation to the Helen + Rob one, and look how long that took.
I compare the Helen/Rob story to the Alice/Chris one, in my own simple way.
DeleteThis is that yet again, us the listeners hear far more differing occuring events, which quite a few of the main characters, have absolutely no idea about, so know what is "afoot".
...correction as to the last bit
Delete...so don't know what is "afoot".
I think that the person who is going to end up being hurt is Amy.. Chris does seem to care for her but I feel that he is still on the rebound from the breakup of his marriage and is reaching out for comfort, but too soon.Amy needs to stick to her misgivings about going behind Alice’s back and stay away from him to avoid temptation until after the divorce ,perhaps finding work away from Ambridge.
ReplyDeleteI was very taken aback by Fallon’s actions last night and hope that she later took time to think carefully about the effect her news might have on Alice.
Yes, I think Amy has to put distance between herself and Chris. It doesn’t need to be permanent but more time is needed to let the dust of the divorce settle.
DeleteI forsee future marital problems between Fallon + Harrison, for many obvious reasons.
ReplyDeletePerhaps when Fallon finds that she is pregnant, normality will be resumed.
That's wishfull thinking I know, but a new generation of Ambridge youngsters might soon be needed.
Fallon doesn't want children (I sympathise with her there), and Harrison respects her wishes. The new generation is slowly building up, with Natasha and Tom's twins to add to Henry, Jack, Chelsea and Mia and their brothers, George, Keira, Poppy, Rosie, Zander and Martha, (have I forgotten anyone?)
DeleteIn spite of Harrison talking some sense into Fallon she was last heard being self tormented as to whether she could attend Martha’s birthday party as she knew that Alice wanted them both to be there.
ReplyDeleteIt’s not ALL about you, Fallon. Try growing up a little.
In contrast to opinions expressed here and elsewhere, I do have some sympathy for Fallon.
ReplyDeleteYes, she is being very dramatic, but she is in the unenviable position of being friendly with all parties involved. She now knows about Chris and Amy, and is fearful of how Alice will react if/when she finds out.
Alice is still vulnerable and has has a lot of support from Amy and Fallon, but how will this change?
I think Amy has tried very hard to resist, and would if Chris wasn't being so persuasive.
Like Portia, I was concerned about this being a rebound relationship for Chris. He also told Fallon how lonely he gets without Alice.
ReplyDeleteAmy too has gone through loss - her sense of purpose and identity as a midwife. OK, so this was her choice, but it was driven by feeling worn down by the pressures, probably excerbated by Covid (I don't recall her exact reasons).
So they are both emotionally vulnerable. Friends anyway, seeking to support each other, perhaps a developing relationship was almost inevitable. But whether it will be good for either of them long term is a different question.
Personally, I think they should have remained just friends, for now at least. But where's the storyline in that?
Amy gave up her midwifery and I wonder what she is living on now. It was a while ago and she shows no sign of looking for another job/career but just seems to be mooching around. Agree Fallon is in a difficult position especially as Alice is so vulnerable. I hope Amy goes away and the situation settles down! I can see Chris is finding living alone difficult but that doesn’t mean entering another relationship so soon.
ReplyDeleteAmy said she was looking to leave Ambridge in the summer, she couldn’t live with Alan and Usha and walk dogs for a living indefinitely. She was rewriting her CV (or similar) last autumn with something in mind, but I don’t know if we ever found out what it was. I agree with everyone else that her relationship with Chris has blossomed too soon and too fast. (Like Romeo and Juliet!)
ReplyDeleteI think Amy will go back to her midwife career. She has had a long break, and as to something she said to Chris or An-other, my feelings are that she is starting to miss her midwifery.
ReplyDeleteI also feel for Fallon as others have said, as she knows too much. She is a close friend to both Chris + Alice, both separately now but also when they were a married couple.
I could go on, but won't.
All I will say is that, Fallon is almost, but not quite, the equivalent to Kirsty, in another story.
Will Kirsty stay?
ReplyDeleteI hope she does. She though needs to move away from Willow Farm, to try and start afresh in her own way.
Yes - she is now my candidate to be the interimn lodger with Stella, in The Bungalow.
It is possible, as they must be of a similar age but could Kirsty pay her way?
I love creating a "wacky" TA story.
DeleteThis one is that - Roy will be Home Alone until Lexxie + kids come for a visit. They might just stay longer than originally planned.
I so want to hear from Joy again.
ReplyDeleteI might be in a massive minority as to this, but I feel she still has a lot to contribute to Ambridge.
Time will tell, though.
I'm with you there, Miriam. There's still a lot of her backstory that we don't know.
DeleteMiriam, here’s a tough question - which of the current.cast would you sacrifice in order to make airtime for Joy? 🙂
DeleteI'd welcome a break from the Alice/Chris/Amy storyline wherever it came from.
DeleteI'd welcolme a Chris/Alice storyline along with family, but no Amy stirring or should that be, messing things up.
DeleteSusan + Jennifer can do this.
Maryellen. My answer to your question as to whom I would sacrifice for Joy, is easy:-
ReplyDeleteJustin for a start, closely followed by Amy, and then perhaps even Mia.
Also Phoebe is leaving soon.
However - no regulars need to be sacrificed.
DeleteI am sure a quick Joy interlude could be done - be it in the shop with Linda or Susan with a bit of gossip, or with Fallon in the Tea Room.
Then perhaps a quick chat with Lee, whilst in their neighbouring back gardens.
It doesn't need to be lengthy as such, just an appearance.
...and I would love to hear how Stan is doing 😺😸
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
Delete...or even a chat with Tony about their love of their cars. If I remember rightly, they bonded over MG Midgets which they both own + love.
DeleteOr was that my imagination 👩🔧🧑🔧🚗
Just tried to post but it disappeared.
DeleteTo repeat briefly: Justin or Pip would not be missed by me. Amy needs to move somewhere else for a while.
I could manage without useless Lee, also Jazzer, Jim and Kirsty in that order. I think Alice needs to get away for a time, while Chris + Martha and Amy sort out their future.
Delete