Vicky overhears Pat discussing her heavy workload with Jennifer; she’s struggling to manage without Clarrie. Later on, she approaches Pat to ask whether she could work at the dairy. Pat warns her that it’s a specialised job which would require specific training, but agrees to show her around. Vicky’s thrilled when Pat agrees to take her on.
Preparations are underway at Home Farm for Phoebe’s early Christmas with Kate. Brian worries how Ruairi’s going to react when he sees how many presents Kate’s bought for Phoebe. He speculates whether Kate’s attempting to buy off her guilty conscience. Kate is evasive when Jennifer asks her if she’s told Phoebe about staying on longer in South Africa.
Phoebe enjoys the party and is delighted with all her presents, particularly the laptop. She suggests they have a belated New Year’s Eve party when Kate comes back to Ambridge. Kate, prompted by Jennifer, confesses that she’s had to change her plans and will be staying in South Africa for an extra couple of weeks. Phoebe tries to hide her disappointment and says it’s time to go home. When Jennifer suggests comforting her, Kate says Phoebe just needs a bit of space, assuring Jennifer she’ll be fine.
WRITER: SIMON FRITH
DIRECTOR: KIM GREENGRASS
