The truth is out for Lilian and Harrison’s captaincy produces a win for Ambridge

Radio Times: Justin demonstrates his love and Fallon wants to be equal

Characters: Fallon, Harrison, Jennifer, Jolene, Justin, Lilian

• Lilian’s birthday arrives at last, and Justin does all he can to spoil her, bringing her Bucks Fizz as she lounges in the new bath. He also brings her a ruby necklace, and much innuendo ensues. Meanwhile Justin is anxious about the family party and how the massed Archers will treat him following the Bridge Farm debacle.
• At the Cricket match, where the female cricketers are putting in an excellent performance, Fallon tells Jolene that the Duckford sisters have agreed to open the fete. She is delighted that Harrison’s decision to play Anisha and Molly has vindicated him, but is also concerned that her lack of finances means that Harrison will be paying all the deposit on a house. She wonders if Jolene and Kenton might lend her some money; Jolene points out that they have none to spare, but agrees to talk to Kenton about it. Look out, David. That loan might take rather longer to be repaid…
• Jennifer duly admires Lilian’s ruby necklace, and wants to see the new bathroom. Rather pointedly, she enquires whether Justin knows how old Lilian is. The reply is somewhat ambiguous.
• Ever one to talk shop at a party, Brian asks Justin when he will be submitting plans for the housing development. Talking to Jennifer about it later, Brian is left in no doubt about the possible strength of opposition. Meanwhile there is still no suitable candidate to hold power of Attorney for Ruairidh. The only person of a suitable age is James, and Brian has no intention of asking him.
• Pleased with a good result at the match, Harrison decides to tackle Will head on about his captaincy and the issue of women players. Fallon says they are to have a meal at which Cricket is not mentioned. She wants to talk about house-buying, and in particular, to explain how she feels about her inability to contribute financially. Harrison is quick to reassure her; what’s his is hers and that’s that.
• As the final guests depart, Lilian says she has had a wonderful birthday and Justin says he has made peace with Pat and Tony. Lilian reminisces about past birthdays, and almost reveals her true age when she mentions a performance of Hair! back in the 60s. Gently, Justin gives her one last present – a newspaper printed on the day of her birth; he has known her true age all the time. Teasing her gently, Justin tells Lilian how much he loves her. She is his soulmate and they will always be a pair of silly teens.