21/12/2023

There’s a full house waiting in St Stephen's for The Gagricultural Show to begin, but Alan’s feeling anxious after Monday’s terrible run-through. Jakob has a last-minute crisis of confidence too, before Usha convinces him he’s the right man for the job. Jakob’s awkward delivery as compere actually works in his favour, and the audience are soon laughing. Meanwhile, outside, Pip and Sykesy compare how nervous they are. Sykesy’s heard about cake-gate between Jill and Stella, while Pip hopes it won’t ruin Christmas. Back inside, Jakob is going down a storm, as are the acts, including Lynda and Brookfield. Sykesy’s routine goes so well it almost feels like he could be a professional comic. When Jakob tries taking him off after three minutes Sykesy whips the crowd up to demand more. Stella and Pip are mightily relieved that their act is over, before Pip suggests spending Christmas together, on their own. However, Stella’s fully committed to Christmas at Brookfield. As they walk home Pip and Stella reflect on how good Sykesy was and how everyone at Brookfield tiptoes around Jill for fear of offending her. Stella is unrepentant about saying Jill’s cake was dry and that modern farming techniques are an improvement on the old ones. She’s not going to kowtow to Jill at all costs and doesn’t think Pip should either.Finally, Alan and Usha congratulate Jakob on the success of the show. He and Sykesy were a revelation and Usha feels positive the tide has turned. People will definitely start coming back to church now.