Bert sizes up the opposition. Brian senses a powerful opposition

Radio Times: Brian tries to sweeten the pill.

Characters: Adam, Bert, Brian, Jennifer, Kathy, Nigel

• Kathy has offered to take charge of a school visit at Lower Loxley, but Nigel’s attempts to help her get ready are less than helpful. Bert appears, ostensibly looking for his Japanese phrase book, but actually to sound Nigel out about goings-on at the slimming club. Poor Nigel puts both feet in it when he comments favourably on Freda’s new appearance, confirming Bert’s worst suspicions.
• Brian adopts a heavy-handed approach when he tries to tell Adam how much he appreciates him. Adam isn’t convinced for a minute, and tells Brian so – he knows that he isn’t appreciated when it comes to the future of the farm. Brian tries to bluster his way out, but is forced to agree to a meeting with Adam and Debbie to discuss the will.
• Bert’s next victim is Kathy, but she won’t give him the answer he’s looking for, and she, too, talks about Freda’s increased self-esteem and new appearance.
• Adam wastes no time. He rings Debbie, who agrees to fly home as soon as possible. Adam comments to Jennifer that something must have made Brian think again – but Jennifer doesn’t let on.
• Nigel discovers Bert lurking outside the slimming club. When Freda appears, all Bert’s worst fears are realised; she is seen talking to Neville Booth, and he is actually squeezing her arm.