29 April 1998

Alistair’s professional services are required to deal with a cut paw; the patient is Charlie, Nelson’s dog, now in the care of Marjorie.
Daniel is beginning to respond to treatment, certainly he is in less pain. Alistair feels Shula needs some time off and Marjorie suggests that he brings her to the tree planting ceremony this evening, as it will not take long.
Hayley is getting to grips with the administration side of the pig business. John seemed to have shopped around for feed, so who should she use? Neil is favourite but when asked, he has to admit that he has resigned from Borchester Mills. Tommy rather tactlessly suggests that he must have a lot of spare time and invites him to extra cricket nets. Coming on top of the episode about Eric, who is still at liberty, this does not go down well.
Alistair finds Daniel in better spirits although not concentrating on anything for long. The idea of a break for Shula is not well received, she just wants to be with her son.
Marjorie is prepared for the tree planting, ready to give the sapling a good dousing. If looked after it could last 500 years, assuming Eric does not grub it up, that is. The plaque is carved in stone in the hope that it will survive as long as the tree: “Now we wait and nothing said, the door stays shut and smiles and laughter done”. Whatever Ambridge is like in 500 years, it is a comfort to Tony that John will be remembered, although he is very worried about how Pat is coping.

Summarised by: Chris Harrison