Kenton’s ready to face the music. Caroline and Oliver look forward to their break and an exhausted Ruth comes up with an alternative plan for Heather’s living arrangements.

Radio Times: Ruth has an idea, and Caroline enjoys some escapism.

Kenton’s out for the count and nursing a poorly head, having spent the night in Toby’s caravan. In spite of this he opens another can of beer – hair of the dog. He’s failed to hear his phone ringing all morning – Jolene of course – and continues to ignore it. He later comes to his senses when she sends him a text and Toby helps him make his way home, along with moral support, a pep-talk and an injection of optimism, but Kenton remains defeated.
Oliver and Caroline are anticipating their escape to Tuscany. Jim has asked to exploit their command of the Italian language before they go, as he wants to teach Christine before she goes to the opera. Caroline suggests an Italian-themed dinner party could be just the ticket.
Ruth is barely back from Prudhoe when her mother rings her. She’s not taking to communal living at the home and has had an argument with a neighbour. Ruth is overwrought, and can’t see a more settled time ahead as things stand. She feels split in two as her heart is at Brookfield but also with her Mum. Could Heather’s future lie at Brookfield? David’s not so sure due to inadequate facilities and access to medical care. He urges Ruth to get some rest and discuss this again when she’s clear-minded, but she wonders how David may feel, were Jill to be in the same predicament?