Usha plans to support Ruth at the public meeting on Friday. She wonders whether Ruth will support Alan tonight at the promises auction in return.

Alan smiles at Jim’s scepticism over his proposals for Lent. Jolene thinks giving up gossip is a tall order. The Bull Upstairs is packed, and the auction gets underway with Ed and George’s offer to clear away slugs. Eddie’s water feature offer goes down well, and Vicky wins the bid at £65. Lynda’s secret offer turns out to be llama lawn mowing, which generates groans and laughs. As Jolene offers a fiver, Lynda excuses herself from the room. As predicted, Harry’s four hours labour goes down a storm, with Sabrina stealing him from Jolene and Usha with a bid of £85. With a good glass of wine, Ruth unwinds and enjoys herself. Usha congratulates Alan on a job well done.

Alan thanks Jim for buying Oliver’s offer of four hours digging. Jim says he bought it for Joe, and asks Alan to call it a random act of kindness. Lynda thanks Alan for his offer of £30 for the llamas. He explains to Lynda that people didn’t quite know how to react to her offer because they were so taken aback. She agrees with him.

WRITER: Nawal Gadalla
DIRECTOR: Kim Greengrass