All is not well between Pip and Toby, and all is not well at Grey Gables.

Radio Times: Ruth tries to play matchmaker, and it may be goodbye to an Ambridge tradition

Characters: Alan, Emma, Lexi, Pip, Roy, Ruth, Toby

• As Pip cleans the cattle sheds ready to bring the herd in for winter, Toby appears, reminding her that tonight is quiz night at The Bull. Pip is not keen, especially as Rex and Anisha are away. When Toby suggests coming back to Lower Loxley with her afterwards, Pip says she is too tired. A local farmer’s son, Alfie, is coming to look at the Brookfield grazing. Does this news sow seeds of jealousy in Toby’s mind?
• Ruth rings to say she is ahead of schedule and will bring the cows up. When she arrives she asks what Pip made of Alfie, and this quickly turns into coy remarks about his obvious interest in Pip. Pip tries to divert Ruth, but in vain. She has invited him to a meal, ostensibly to meet David, but very obviously and somewhat pruriently, to interest him in her daughter. The formerly tired Pip decides she needs to go to the quiz. She can’t let her team down.
• As Roy and Lexi go to The Bull, it is apparent that the atmosphere and tensions at Grey Gables are getting to Roy. Ian is not coping well and Roy has to try and keep the peace. Lexi is concerned about the staff too, and tells Roy he is not handling things well . Matters are not improved when Emma joins them, saying loudly that Susan told her that Adam was taken in for questioning. Angrily, Roy tells her to go away if she wants to spread malicious gossip.
• Emma seeks solace with Pip, who has a text from Toby to say there is a problem with the gin so he will not be coming. Emma invites her to join Alan and Usha’s team. Pip accepts, but is very quiet all evening. Emma, concerned that Robert’s involvement with Speedwatch is gaining him votes, does some canvassing.
• After the quiz Roy apologises to Emma, who accepts with uncharacteristic grace. Alan wonders why audition sheets for the panto are not up. Those around him express varying degrees of relief, but Alan feels that it is an Ambridge institution. Lexi agrees.
• Emma offers Pip a lift, but she says Lily is picking her up. As she waits, Toby appears, hoping for a nightcap at Lower Loxley. Angrily Pip informs him that he let her down and she in turn let others down as a result. Everything with Toby is so casual. Toby retorts that it wasn’t a date and that Pip is so moody. Refusing his offer of a lift, Pip sets off to walk home.