Lynda and Alice find a female lead; David and Ruth face the future.

Radio Times: Alice makes a radical decision, and Pip and Josh have a late-night chat.

Characters: Alice, David, Lynda, Pip, Ruth

• Lynda and Alice are desperate to find someone to replace Helen in the Christmas play.
• Pip fixed Beef Wellington for the family and makes a critical comment about those who have turned down Brookfield beef because of the farm sale. As they scoff chocolates, the adults discuss Alan’s search for a donkey. Pip wants to discuss making changes in the herd management when they move to the new farm. She wants to expand and install the latest technological features. David and Ruth are willing to debate things but they need to consider the risks and costs. Pip argues she is looking to the future. Josh comes in and triumphantly announces he has passed his driving test.
• Meanwhile, Alice has saved the day: Lilian will play the main role with Douglas. Lynda objects that Lilian is undisciplined and too old! There is no one else, argues Alice; it is Auntie Lilian or no show. Lynda capitulates.
• Pip and Josh discuss the Young Farmers’ bash. Pip may attend solo because Spencer is away with his parents over Christmas. Trouble in lovers’ paradise?
• Josh asks Pip if she will move up north. She notes that they really don’t have a choice but if they do it right, it is an amazing opportunity. Gran must be sad about leaving but she is keeping silent.
• David is losing sleep over worry about going to Justin Elliott’s shoot. They haven’t even met him yet but people think they are in his pocket. People will criticize no matter what the decision. The important thing is to remember that it is the future of the family in farming that is the focus.