The Aldridges’ dream of buying Brookfield is shattered.

Radio Times: David has news for Brian, and Clarrie has some advice for Emma.

Characters: Adam, Brian, Clarrie, David, Emma, George, Jennifer

• It can’t be put off any longer: David has called at Home Farm to explain that there will be no auction, due to a quite extraordinary offer from Damara Capital which they are confident nobody else will top. Brian knew nothing of this and is disappointed. He asks how much.
• Because Keira is suffering so much from her cough, Emma is taking her to the doctor’s; she will not take George, though he professes to be just as bad, but Clarrie works her magic and he settles down to stay with her. George is to be one of the wise men in the Nativity play, which will be ok as long as he sticks to the script.
• Jennifer reports that Peggy’s visit to see Tony has shaken her up. It is worrying that the anti-biotics are taking so much time to have effect; Peggy clearly feels that time is running out. What did David want? Jennifer might well ask. It appears that David did answer Brian’s question; they feel that Brookfield is not worth that much – as a farm. Jennifer gets on her high horse: she would never treat Ambridge so. You think you know people.
• Back from the doctor’s, Keira sleeps. Clarrie asks if Emma and Ed have thought any more about Eddie’s idea. William is fed up about not finding a tenant for No. 1 The Green – but is he fed up enough to let it to his brother? There’s no harm in trying.
• Adam can’t take in the news either. It looks bleak for Home Farm; they may have to let one of the staff go. Charlie must have known last week; he would have been laughing up his sleeve. Their problems are as nothing compared to Tony’s but they will get through somehow – with family solidarity.