Debbie arrives in Ambridge and makes it clear she will find a way to raise funds without selling the house. Lynda isn’t pleased with Neil as the Pets’ Talent Show judge.

Radio Times: Robert has a challenge on his hands

Characters: Brian, Debbie, Jennifer, Justin, Lynda, Robert

• Lynda is thrilled with Monty’s progress in counting by barking. When she tries to demonstrate Monty’s genius to Robert, however, Monty runs off after a butterfly.
• Brian collects Debbie at the airport. She reports difficulty with coming to England at such short notice. Brian grouses about the discussion over selling the house. Debbie warns Brian that she is not here just to back up what Brian has to say. Brian agrees but he believes Debbie will see his plans have all been for the best. Debbie criticises Brian for keeping the contamination secret for so long. Why did he keep it in the dark for so long? Debbie makes it clear she has been talking with Kate and Adam but Brian is dismissive. Debbie points out Brian has not been talking to everyone. He also hasn’t been gracious about stepping down from the partnership. Debbie says fresh challenges call for fresh thinking. Brian asks Debbie to rule out the house sale. Debbie says it won’t come to that. Debbie announces she won’t forget anyone’s point of view.
• Justin visits Lynda and Robert because he is escaping from Lilian’s playing of Bizet in training for the fete. But he has a more welcome reason: Berrow Farm would like to sponsor the Pets’ Talent Show first prize. It is to be a specially commissioned portrait of the winner by Francesca Lockhart. Even though she didn’t want to judge the competition, she is happy to stick to what she knows. Lynda points out there is a possible conflict of interest with Lilian taking part.
• Jennifer is thrilled to welcome Debbie. Debbie announces she is here to reduce the stress in Jennifer’s life. Instead of lunch, Debbie would like to look around the farm-with Jennifer, not Brian.
• Robert is trying to fix the Whack-A-Mole for the fete. Lynda tells Justin she has doubts about Neil as judge. Lynda hopes for a true local celebrity. Bernie Bennett, the motoring columnist from the Westbury Courier is Lynda’s current favourite. She points out his column reaches 9000 homes. Justin says Neil is still a backup but Lynda is clearly not on board with that suggestion. Justin notes that Neil wouldn’t let her down and then he leaves.
• Jennifer complains to Debbie that Brian doesn’t tell her much about the cleanup these days. Jenny feels so helpless and the costs are horrendous. Debbie concedes there are no easy ways to raise the money. Jennifer suggests the house sale may be the answer. Perhaps this is the best way forward; no one else need be penalised. Jennifer feels this may keep the family together and that is her goal. Debbie points out Brian is to blame and Jennifer shouldn’t suffer. Debbie declares her job this week is to find a better way to find the funds needed.