03/07/2022

At the cricket match, Jim’s feeling put out. He’s overheard some of the Darrington players mocking him over his scoring prowess, suggesting he’s past it. Tracy suggests he ignores them, and confirms Jim’s mind and eyes are still pin sharp. Needled Tracy reckons they should bend the rules a bit by putting the better Gleeson in to bat twice. Pat’s not sure it feels right, but Tracy goes ahead. Later she acknowledges it didn’t really work and she felt so worries she couldn’t enjoy it – turns out she’s not made for cheating! Pat suggests they chalk it down to experience, and practise so that next time they win fair and square. Jim has spotted Tracy’s subterfuge, and declares that all play in future should fall within the letter and spirit of cricketing law. Tom and Natasha load veg boxes; she’s fed up of being told to put her feet up and wants to work. Helen calls in to talk new markets. She wants to opt for strengthening existing cheese sales via an online offer, rather than diversifying too soon into mozzarella. Natasha agrees – find your sweet spot in an already established market. The business chat and banter about baby names continues later as they all prepare a family tea at Bridge Farm. Tony’s absent seeing to the Monteys, which disappoints Helen. She was keen to share his research on buffalo. Natasha and Pat think it would be best to focus on the cheese by post for now, but Helen and Tom think there might be room for both enterprises. Pat cautions they’ll have their hands full with the babies soon, but Natasha announces her solution – her mum’s coming to stay after they’re born.