James arrives and expects to be waited on hand and foot. Tom tests his ready meals and finds them wanting.

Radio Times: There is not a moment’s peace for Lilian. Meanwhile, Peggy has a brainwave.

Characters: Brenda, James, Lilian, Matt, Peggy, Tom

• James has arrived, as Matt and Lilian cannot fail to have noticed. He now sports a full plaster on his leg – pity it does not extend to his mouth! Matt makes it clear to him that he is not James’ servant, neither is his mother. Matt suggests that, with time on his hands, James might be able to come up with another (sic) best-seller.
• Peggy is the latest to be surprised by Joe’s teeth. Fresh from the encounter, as Tom gives her a lift to The Laurels, she comes up with a great idea for a Christmas promotion: the same ready meals but marketed to busy cooks who are getting ready for family Christmas meals.
• Matt’s words haven’t had much effect: another coffee please Ma, pass me my briefcase Ma, phone is dead so find the charger and plug it in Ma. Lilian is weary by the end of the day. When James takes over the lounge – pass me the remote Ma – and requests supper on a tray, Matt has had enough and heads for the office. Lilian takes a fag break outside just at the moment when Paul rings. She admits to being all in; Paul is surprised that Lilian went to London on her own and gives her some concerned advice about taking care of herself.
• As she and Tom sit down to test the first batch of ready meals, Brenda hears about Peggy’s idea and is impressed. The moment of truth: the casserole is really tasty but the meat balls – ugh – are much too salty. Someone will come in tomorrow to an unpleasant answering machine message.