Ruth tells Pip some home truths about being a parent. Justin persuades the board to back Brian as chair – and Brian is now considerably in his debt.

Radio Times: Justin has an ulterior motive and reality hits for Pip

Characters: Annabelle, Brian, Jennifer, Justin, Pip, Ruth

• Ruth and Pip are visiting another milking parlour. Ruth is moaning that Toby isn’t reliable. Pip insists it’s not his fault that Jolene has been giving him all of the extra shifts. Meantime, it is clear that Jill is on a mega knitting fest.
• Brian and Jennifer are still talking about who Justin will vote for at the BL board. Brian is still very doubtful that he’ll make it. Jennifer says he shouldn’t go into the meeting as if he’s beaten already. Justin arrives and seems cheerful. Whatever the outcome he is sure Brian will put up a decent fight.
• Annabelle says to Justin that Brian must be aware that the writing is on the wall. Brian tries to make an impassioned speech in support of his chairmanship and is as shocked as anyone by the contamination. He then has to excuse himself. Brian wins the vote and it is clear that Justin’s speech won it. They couldn’t see him hounded out. Everyone but Martin voted for him.
• Pip is taking photos of the parlour for David to see. Ruth isn’t too impressed with it – too slow and too cold. But Pip insists that the New Zealand system would be better for the cows. It would make their lives so much better. On the drive home she defintely is a big fan. Ruth suddenly lets rip. For years now the milking is going to be down to Ruth and David. Pip doesnt understand why she can’t do the same as her mother. Ruth says she wasn’t some sort of shining example. It broke her heart to leave her with Jill. She even nearly hit Pip once. She barely coped with David and her mum and Jill when she was physically able. Pip will be almost on her own. They won’t be around for night feeds and while Toby will do his best most of the time she will be on her own and the farming will be down to Ruth and David. Pip sounds a little deflated.
• Annabelle is puzzled about why Justin was so adamant that Brian should stay. Justin says he is a steady hand and they shouldn’t throw him out just because of choppy waters. It never hurts to have someone in your debt and after today Brian owes him a great deal.