Justin has his wings clipped. Pat heaps praise on Kirsty for her support.

Radio Times: Justin’s diary needs attention, and Pat raises a glass.

Characters: Helen, Justin, Kirsty, Lilian, Miranda, Pat, Tom

• Preparations are in hand for a surprise birthday tea for Pat; Tom has eventually come to help Helen after keeping out of her way for most of the day. He has been texting Kirsty with no response; Helen advises doing nothing, rather give Kirsty some space.
• Lilian has a surprise phone call from Justin; he is in Ambridge and wants to go over his diary. Lilian could come straight away but he suggests in an hour and then hangs up rather abruptly.
• Kirsty is an honoured guest at Pat’s birthday tea – one of the family. Left alone with Tom, the conversation is tentative but they agree not to upset Pat’s day.
• Lilian is surprised to find that Justin is accompanied by Miranda and it’s clear that she is the motivation for a severe prune of his Ambridge diary. Miranda explains that Justin has more significant business investments elsewhere. Justin agrees (he wouldn’t dare do otherwise!) so resistance is futile; Lilian takes in the required changes.
• In her speech Pat thanks everyone, especially Kirsty; she doesn’t know what she would have done without Kirsty’s support while she was out of touch with Helen. Before Kirsty leaves, Helen arranges lunch and a catch-up on Thursday.