The Silver Wedding party is a great success and Darrell won’t be alone on Christmas Day.

Radio Times: Eddie is insistent and David feels unsociable.

Characters: Darrell, Eddie, Elizabeth, Jill, Ruth, Shula

• Preparations are well in hand for the party. David still doesn’t suspect. He comes in all muddy and could cheerfully give ‘tea’ at Lower Loxley a miss; can’t do that: Elizabeth is expecting them. Phew!
• Shula and Eddie compare notes about Darrell. He isn’t very communicative with Eddie just now but Shula has a try. She apologises for interfering too much; in future she will stand back but assures him she is still willing to support him.
• Jill has iced a wonderful cake, amid complaints about her failing eyesight: cue for Elizabeth to nag her about making an appointment. When David and Ruth arrive, the surprise is sprung and a good time is had by all.
• Meanwhile out in the cold Eddie tries to persuade Darrell that, being confused and upset, Rosa did not mean what she said. It’s never too late: one step at a time he should put his life back together. As for Christmas Day, he is coming to spend it with the Grundys; Clarrie won’t take no for an answer.