Debbie’s resignation throws Adam’s sustainability argument into sharp relief; Ruth may have to make some unpalatable choices.

Radio Times: Debbie makes up her mind, and Ruth gets wound up.

Characters: Adam, Brian, David, Debbie, Jill, Ruth

• As Jill sets the finishing touches to a lemon drizzle cake, David reports on Josh’s parents evening. He’s capable but needs to apply himself. On another tack, Jill feels that Toby is taking advantage of David’s good nature at Hollowtree. David answers a call from Ruth.
• Debbie helps Adam bring in the barley; she must feel stuck between a rock and a hard place. A call from Brian makes it clear that he expects her support with regard to the maize. Shortly afterwards, she’s buttonholed by Adam who repeats his case for the sustainability option. Reaching agreement will be difficult.
• David tells Jill the news that Heather has fallen in hospital while Ruth was having her house valued. Ruth now feels terribly upset and guilty. Jill isn’t best pleased that Pip has asked David to plumb in the feeders for Toby. As if he’s not busy enough!
• In a quiet moment, Debbie tells Adam that she admired the courage he showed during the flood. She feels that Charlie Thomas should too. She is puzzled to hear that Adam’s opinion of him has softened. She would be interested to meet him. Despite Adam’s protestations, she must return home soon. Brian rolls up claiming that the success of the barley harvest is down to Debbie’s expertise.
• David battles the plumbing at Hollowtree when Ruth phones. Heather is back at square one and just wants to be in her own home. What should Ruth tell her of her future? David fears that the time has come seriously to consider care homes but Ruth flares. She just can’t do it. David wants what’s best for everyone, including Ruth. There’s no other option.
• Brian is staggered by Debbie’s acceptance of Adam’s ideas. It’s appeasement! She disagrees. Adam has made a good case for quitting maize. Then she drops her bombshell, a promotion in Hungary means that she can’t continue overseeing the arable at Home Farm. She’s handing over to Adam. Brian goes into meltdown, but the lady’s not for turning. Adam must take complete responsibility.