06/01/2022

The Oliver Awards are in full swing at Grey Gables, with Alan presiding over proceedings. Lily and Susan are among the winners, and Lynda gets singled out for praise for her production as Alan reads out a fulsome message from the Bishop. Modest Kirsty wins a special award and reluctantly gives a speech, admitting that now she’s done this, she’s pretty much ready for anything. She raises a glass and they all drink a toast to Ambridge. Alice admits to Amy while they’re out walking one of Amy’s dog charges that she’s feeling more positive. Amy’s pleased – her own solution to mood boosting is exactly this, walking the dogs. Alice feels yesterday’s playground incident represents progress. Amy agrees – and there may be more tests but Alice will learn to avoid the triggers. Alice can see that dog walking is suiting Amy. She muses that she needs something more to do herself – she has way too much time on her hands. She shares the thought with her mum, suggesting to Jennifer that she might go back to work. Jennifer counters that work is stressful, and stress is to be avoided. But Alice reckons not being busy is even more stressful for her. She wants to use her brain. She wonders about part time work at Home Farm. Jennifer promises to discuss it with Brian. Alice believes it could be what she needs to get her life back on track.