The Archers podcast

The Archers

An intense and gripping week of events unfolds in Ambridge. Listen to all the drama here.

An intense and gripping week of events unfolds in Ambridge. Listen to all the drama here.

 

#28

28/03/2024

Tensions mount at the cricket practice, and Robert has an idea. ... Read more

7 hrs Ago

12 MINS

12:56

7 hrs Ago


#27

27/03/2024

At the Bull, Emma tries to appeal to Jolene about George’s ban. But Jolene won’t stand for George’s backchat. Upset Emma swears George has grown up and argues with Jolene, with Kenton caught in the middle. Jolene tells Emma that if she has a problem with her decision, she knows where the door is. Kenton challenges Jolene on her mood swings. Jolene doesn’t want bad people in the pub, and Kenton realises what’s up, thinking back to his attack. It’s time to move on, and there’s no point alienating anyone, including Tracy and Emma. If Brad and George apologise, will Jolene let the matter go? She agrees – they had better mean it, though. George sets up his next video, with Chris all dressed up to demonstrate his work as a farrier, attending to Bartleby. He tells Chris about being barred from the Bull and Chris chats about the Cricket Chair nominations – he’ll vote for Lynda, and Harrison wants to recruit younger players. In return for today’s filming, Chris wants George and Brad to come along to cricket nets practice tomorrow and watch the team. Chris is a natural on camera, even adlibbing and giving George instructions to join in with what he’s doing, filing Bartleby’s hooves. Emma asks about the video and George is annoyed that all the comments are about ‘fit’ Chris. Emma’s pleased to receive a text from Kenton, offering George an olive branch. But George stubbornly refuses to go and apologise to Jolene. Emma seethes and threatens to cancel his phone contract if he doesn’t say sorry. ... Read more

Yesterday

12 MINS

12:59

Yesterday


#26

26/03/2024

Lynda and Robert both turn up at Lower Loxley to speak with Freddie and campaign on each other’s behalf for the Cricket Club Chair position. Freddie cheekily asks them both for a practical demonstration to help him decide who to vote for – he needs to see some cricket skills, starting with a warm up! They reluctantly join in, and Freddie sends them off on a brisk walk around the house before they take turns batting and bowling to each other. Lynda makes the stronger hit, but the ball hits Freddie in a very delicate area, so he goes away to recover. This leaves Robert to wryly comment that Lynda’s skill makes her favourite. She feels awful. Jolene gets herself dressed up and Kenton notices how much more upbeat she is. She’s raring to go on Sunday and needs an Easter bonnet! Jolene even considers providing some musical accompaniment. She’s also been thinking about the event rules and is upping the ante with prizes. Kenton’s delighted to see Jolene throwing herself into it. At the Bull, George can’t persuade Brad to bunk off his studies tomorrow and help him film Chris for his Socials. However, Brad is the one buying their drinks, prompting a suddenly sterner Jolene to refuse, as Brad’s too young to buy George’s alcohol. George’s backchat offends Jolene, and she threatens to throw him out. Kenton appears to see what’s going on and Jolene’s unhappy that he doesn’t share her vehemence. George continues insulting Jolene as she insists to soft Kenton that this isn’t just a slap on the wrist - both George and Brad are barred! ... Read more

26 Mar 2024

12 MINS

12:55

26 Mar 2024


#25

25/03/2024

Worried George plays Jakob a video of Bartleby and asks the vet to look at him. Jakob spots the evidence of Bartleby not eating properly and decides on a change of treatment and a special diet. George worries about the cost and tries to secure a free prescription in return for some social media publicity. Jakob reminds George to focus on animal welfare, not publicity. Without the care Jakob recommends, he doesn’t see Bartleby surviving another winter. Kenton has a surprise to perk Jolene up. He’s come up with an idea for a special Easter community event. An easter egg hunt crossed with an egg and spoon relay race. He explains the details and Jolene wryly tells him to focus on his recovery. But he has it covered – Jolene is going to take centre stage to run the event. But she says no. Kenton’s disappointed he hasn’t cheered Jolene up. Elizabeth pops in and Kenton opens up about distant and distracted Jolene. Elizabeth shuts Kenton down when he mentions that Jolene seems panicky about money. He asks Elizabeth to cheer Jolene up, and Jolene works this out, but enjoys Elizabeth’s company. Elizabeth asks Jolene about the Kenton attack investigation, and Jolene puts her off asking Harrison for an update, with Elizabeth changing topic to Kenton’s complicated Easter event plans. Jolene will surely host and adjudicate? Jolene says no, but as Elizabeth offers a pep talk Jolene remembers working the crowds in the past and starts to gee herself up. Okay, she won’t hide away any longer. Elizabeth’s delighted. ... Read more

25 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:14

25 Mar 2024


#24

24/03/2024

Lynda insists that Robert lets Harrison know he’s the only Snell running for Ambridge Cricket Club Chair. But as Robert leaves to make his phone call, Harrison shows up at the door to encourage Lynda to be chair. Harrison ignores Robert’s call as he continues to flatter Lynda, but she sends him away disappointed, insisting on Robert. Robert twigs that it was Harrison at the door just now, trying to court Lynda. He’s conflicted, so they eventually agree to both stand for the Chair position – with a twist – they’ll each campaign for the other. Jolene doesn’t seem herself as Fallon and Kenton gossip about Brian and Miranda at the recent Ball. Kenton tries to engage Jolene as he encourages Fallon not to worry about Harrison’s upcoming disciplinary hearing – they all need to think positively. But grouchy Jolene snaps that they need more than positive thinking. If things turn out badly for Fallon and Harrison, Fallon wonders whether Jolene and Kenton would be able to lend them money. Kenton says they’ll make it work, but Jolene’s more hard-headed – they don’t have cash to spare. Alone with Jolene, Kenton ticks her off for being so harsh. Jolene points out their own situation and how they could suddenly need money themselves – they need to be prepared. Kenton doesn’t want to think like that, but Jolene says they may not have a choice. Kenton goes to see Fallon to apologise and reassures Fallon – who’s like a daughter to him - that he and Jolene will help in any way they can. Fallon mentions how sensitive Jolene is right now, but Kenton shares that he has a plan that’s guaranteed to lift her spirits. ... Read more

24 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:03

24 Mar 2024


#23

22/03/2024

At Rickyard, Pip encourages Stella to accept the offer from Justin of the Non-Executive Director role and Stella decides to go for it. As Stella tries to turn the conversation to Rosie, and setting some ground rules, Pip wants to celebrate Stella’s good news and leads her to the bedroom. Stella is keen to play an active role in Rosie’s life, but Pip doesn’t catch on that there’s a ‘but’ coming, happily taking it as a cue for Stella to stay over and say goodnight to Rosie. Miranda joins Brian at the cottage for a glass of his special single malt before they head out to the Ball at Grey Gables. He admits he’s a little apprehensive, but Miranda tells him not to worry – she’s keen to make her ex Justin squirm. At the Ball Justin’s surprised and intrigued to see them together. Brian and Miranda explain how they reconnected, and they make awkward small talk with Justin and Lilian. Justin encourages Miranda to bid high in the charity auction and she pointedly mentions how she is used to needing her cheque book when he’s around. Justin nabs Brian to warn him about Miranda. Brian chastises Justin for mentioning Jennifer and how she’d feel about it and Justin apologises. Meanwhile, Lilian also mentions to Miranda that Brian is still grieving for Jennifer. Brian makes a dig at Justin about ‘gold-digging’, influenced by Miranda’s comment, and as Brian defiantly takes to the dance floor with Miranda, Justin and Lilian are left feeling concerned about him. Lilian wonders what the money comment was all about, and Justin brushes it aside. He hopes this is no more than a passing fling. ... Read more

22 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:12

22 Mar 2024


#22

21/03/2024

Chris flummoxes Lynda by telling her she’d make a great Chair for the cricket club committee, explaining that Tracy suggested her. Lynda humbly insists that Harrison is consulted, so Chris invites Lynda to the get together at the pub that Harrison has organised. Encouraged by Chris, Lynda makes her case for becoming Chair, pointing out improvements she’d like to make to facilities, using her Grey Gables connection and potential funding. She’d also make the Club more inclusive. Harrison’s delighted to nominate Lynda, with Chris happy to second. But unwitting Robert turns up and explains he’s here about the Chair position – Tracy suggested it to him. Robert and Lynda both insist that the other should stand, and realise they should continue the conversation at home, leaving Chris scratching his head and Harrison admitting he’d prefer Lynda. Harrison tells Chris that with his problems at work, his cricket captaincy and today’s gathering is a useful distraction. It’s a small affair but Stella and Hannah turn up, and Stella encourages Hannah not to turn to jelly around Chris. Stella opens up about how much of her attention Rosie is grabbing, and Hannah tells her to be honest with Pip and set boundaries. Hannah agrees to front up and ask Chris out, if Stella is honest with Pip. Hannah is true to her word, although Chris misses the hint when she gets chatting with him about meeting up one to one, and she ends up agreeing to some private cricket coaching. But a deal’s a deal, so now Stella needs to talk to Pip about Rosie. ... Read more

21 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:10

21 Mar 2024


#21

20/03/2024

Oliver and Robert keep quiet at the rewilding as they hope to spot a hare in the long grass. Oliver’s impressed by Robert’s research into Bartleby – he has a photo from the Echo and has found some information about a gang of horse thieves in the 80s. Robert considers making sleuthing his new hobby – he does need to find something to spark his imagination. Oliver suggests guiding at Lower Loxley. But Robert fancies going for Chair of the Cricket club – he admits he needs something he can do for himself, without Lynda’s involvement. Robert’s distracted as he sees a pair of ears – there are two hares! Justin has a proposal for Stella, as he learns about what she’s doing to improve soil health. He’s been to a sustainability symposium and needs someone at Board level to ensure BL is playing their part environmentally. Defensive Brian challenges Justin. Awkward Stella gets a well-timed call and takes herself off to answer it. It’s Pip, wondering when she’s going to be coming over for dinner. Stella offers to the gents to have a think about the position on offer, and Justine privately warns Brian not to stifle Stella’s talent. But back to being friends, Justin asks if Brian is bringing anyone to the Grey Gables Ball on Friday. Having had a catch up with Pip and filled her in on today’s events, Stella makes her excuses. But Rosie needs Stella to read to her, so Pip says there’s no escaping just yet! ... Read more

20 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:14

20 Mar 2024


#20

19/03/2024

Lynda complains to Robert about the state of the cricket pavilion and general facilities inside. The team needs proper leadership. At Grey Gables, Lynda notices what a glow Brian has about him. Robert’s there for the watercolour class, but Oliver encourages Lynda to join in as well, and she turns out to be star pupil - unlike frustrated Robert who’s ready to give up. Lynda suggests that Robert may see a hare tomorrow at the rewilding site, and he could paint that. George fills Oliver in on his latest research into Bartleby’s age and admits Robert set him on his quest. He’s keen to make Bartleby, and himself, social media famous and rich! George has made contact with a woman at Overton Farm who gave him some details about Bartleby’s history, including being stolen by thieves. Over lunch, Miranda’s delighted that Brian decided to rearrange - what made him change his mind? Brian shares that it was his daughters. Miranda’s glad, as Brian admits he worried how Alice and Kate would feel about it. They enjoy a bottle of wine and some gossip about Justin, with Brian trying to extract more juice. Miranda tells him about when they first met – she has had to bail Justin out financially more than once. When Miranda learns that Justin will be at the Grey Gables ball on Friday, she’s tempted to come along with Brian as his date. But for now, how about they continue things at her place? Brian realises what she means and politely makes his excuses – but the door isn’t closed on meeting up again. ... Read more

19 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:16

19 Mar 2024


#19

18/03/2024

Chris complements Stella and Hannah on their skills, but they decline his offer to join the cricket team. Stella teases Hannah that she likes Chris. Later, Tracy moans to Chris about the woes of captaining the cricket team – but she’d be interested in being vice-captain. Chris breaks it to Tracy that Harrison has already given him the job and she’s miffed. Lynda sympathises with Tracy and reflects on the battle for women’s liberation. Tracy reports that Kenton is doing better after the dog attack, but the police aren’t getting anywhere finding the culprits. Lynda also shares with Tracy that she has booked Robert onto a watercolour painting class at Grey Gables as she hopes to find him a new hobby. Back at Stella’s, Pip and Rosie have made themselves at home as Rosie puts on a puppet show, and busy Stella could do with some time to finish her work. Hannah tells Stella to be honest with Pip, but Stella teases Hannah again about Chris – she should tell Chris she fancies him. Hannah admits she does, but she’s scared, opening up about a previous brief fling with Tom, who she liked more than he reciprocated. Stella promises to be Hannah’s wing-woman – they’ll both join the cricket team! Lynda speaks with Chris about women in the cricket team and Chris susses that Tracy put her up to it, telling Tracy to join the committee. But Tracy’s not interested in the position of Chair. Thinking of someone who might be, Tracy starts to talk about Lynda, but Chris gets distracted by a text from Stella – he’s delighted to have 2 new women on the cricket team! ... Read more

18 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:09

18 Mar 2024


#18

17/03/2024

Robert’s on edge attending to breakfast for fussy B&B guests the Philpotts. Lynda calmly encourages Robert to take himself off and find something to distract himself and restore his usual amiability. Robert stumbles upon George with Bartleby the pony and George’s ears prick up as Robert jokes about Bartleby being the oldest horse in the world. When Robert shares some initial research with George about the oldest living horse, George gets excited by the idea that the ‘title’ could be vacant. Lynda finds them and warns Robert not to encourage George. Robert admits that he wasn’t in the mood for bird watching, and Lynda realises he needs a new hobby to keep him busy – but what? Kate checks with Brian that Alice is ok. Brian is glad Alice reached out to him and she seemed happier yesterday. Kate reckons she had suspicions about Harry from the start. Kate quizzes Brian on where he was on Friday, looking very smart. Just a Rotary club dinner, he says, changing the subject. Kate finds Alice, who insists she’s fine, and they realise that Brian told them different stories about his whereabouts. Kate thought he was acting strangely earlier, and he’s been rather ‘perky’ lately – could it be down to a woman? Kate puts Brian on the spot and he admits he has been seeing someone, but it’s over - he didn’t want to upset his daughters over Jenny. Alice encourages her Dad to follow his own advice to her and live his life. Kate agrees, and Brian’s left pondering rearranging a date – but says let’s just see how it goes. ... Read more

17 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:08

17 Mar 2024


#17

15/03/2024

Tony is at the tearoom buying a coffee and says the hides on the wall look good but Emma and Fallon disagree. The vast majority of customers have said they don’t like them; one vegetarian couple left without ordering anything. Tony says he’ll let Tom and Natasha know. Later he and George take the hides down, less than a week after they went up. Emma is delighted but George feels sorry for Tony. He suggests using them on the floor of Tony's workshop. Emma asks George if he might help with the tree surgery business plan. He refuses but then agrees when Fallon says he might be Emma’s secret weapon. Alice arrives to return her race day outfit to Kate. She says the day at Cheltenham let her forget her problems for a bit. But when Brian suggests she see if Fallon fancies a drink, she says they’re still not on good terms because of Harry. Later Brian goes to Miranda’s dinner event and finds her changed into a glamorous outfit but worried as the guest speaker hasn’t arrived. He takes a call and has to bow out suddenly. Back at home when Alice arrives, he can see she is upset and Alice says she should have known Harry was too good to be true. Brian tries to buck her up. But she is worried about Chris doubting her as a mum. Brian walks Alice home. On the way back he rings Miranda and she suggests dinner but he’s not sure – he doesn’t want to let her down again. ... Read more

15 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:15

15 Mar 2024


#16

14/03/2024

Brian and Justin finish a round of golf as they chat about his enjoyable day at Cheltenham - it was a welcome break from the problems of flooded fields and farming. He tells Justin that they bumped into Miranda at the races. Justin apologises, describing her as manipulative and greedy, though conceding she could be fun. Brian declines a drink, saying he has an appointment in Borchester. Later as he and Miranda have coffee she wonders how Justin would react if he knew they were fraternising. She reveals she had been intimidated by Jenny at first but grew to find her very warm. At one dinner party Jenny had noticed Justin being unkind and comforted her. They are interrupted by a call from Justin – he has news about Stella and her replanting schedule. Miranda says that she organises after-dinner speakers for events. She is arranging one nearby tomorrow. Brian and Miranda are saying goodbye when she suggests he join her at tomorrow evening’s dinner. Emma meets Justin but is shocked to hear that he expects a consultation fee for his time and business advice. He concedes he’ll give her half an hour free now but when the business is up and running they can do half an hour of tree surgery for him. He says the plan feels a little verbose and they need to go back to basics – it needs detail and focus. They have to convince Will he has done the right thing in backing them. Emma is all thanks and Justin says he is looking forward to seeing how the project develops. ... Read more

14 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:07

14 Mar 2024


#15

13/03/2024

Alice is dressed to the nines as Vintage Spring for a day at Cheltenham races. Kate has pulled out all the stops putting a smart outfit together for her, even sewing some parts. Alice feels bad about leaving Lillian to cope with meeting clients and booster vaccinations for some of the horses at the stables. At Cheltenham, though, Alice is having the time of her life and Brian says, despite a lack of winners, he is having his best day ever. There’s no need to hurry back to Ambridge as Chris is happy to have Martha tonight. But Alice doesn’t want to talk about him when Brian asks how things are going. When she goes off to find a dinner table, Brian is greeted by Miranda Elliott. She asks after Jennifer and is full of condolences. She suggests they meet up for coffee sometime, but Brian says he’s too busy. Later he calls Miranda to say he would like to meet her after all. Paul tells Jakob he has plans to meet Kate for a drink that evening. As Kate and Paul swap stories about past embarrassments, she asks him how things are at work and he reveals that Jakob is trying hard – even to the extent of trying to make small talk. Later they arrive at Jakob’s home early from the pub as he sits in his pyjamas reading quietly. He is horrified and it takes him a minute to regain his composure but then he insists Paul must stay – it would be rude to turn him away. It’s Kate’s idea, they reflect, and she is a force of nature. ... Read more

13 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:03

13 Mar 2024


#14

12/03/2024

Jakob is agitated as he gets ready to leave home for an appointment. He doesn’t want to face Paul at the practice where the atmosphere is terrible after their row last week. He recounts his outburst to Kate who tells him he must apologise today. At the practice he tries some awkward compliments before telling Paul he is sorry for his outburst. Paul apologises in turn and Jakob confesses that he is grateful for Paul’s gift of the gab when it relieves him of the burden of making small talk or being sympathetic to clients. Kate meets Paul for lunch at the tearoom, noting a lift in his spirits. Paul says he might try to be less full on. Kate responds that she knows she annoys people – but this is her, take it or leave it. Now she needs to find a way to make life better for Alice. Paul suggests a fab day out and Kate knows exactly who to speak to. Ed is annoyed and distracted by Will’s notes on their tree surgery business plan. Emma says they should focus on the important thing which is getting their business off the ground. They have to rise above and stay positive. George appears, offering them the benefit of his business expertise. While talking them through the jargon, he reveals that Will’s notes are actually based on comments from Brian Aldridge. Emma suggests that they seek advice from their own business guru – Justin Elliott. Then they can focus on positive ways forward. ... Read more

12 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:06

12 Mar 2024


#13

11/03/2024

Emma and Ed tell Will they’ve discussed his offer of finance for the tree surgery business and want to take him up on it. All three are excited but George is less than impressed. He asks if Will has lost his mind remortgaging their home, saying that if Ed and Emma mess up the family be out on the street. Later Will says he listened to George and has asked Brian Aldridge to look at their business plan. He adds the Grundys have always lived hand to mouth and he doesn’t want to be like that. Later, while drinking a toast, Will tells Ed and Emma he has concerns about their business plan and doesn’t want to sign anything until it is watertight. He leaves them with a list of notes for ways they need to improve it. Annoyed, Ed wonders whether their partnership is going to work. Alice and Chris have an angry and emotional exchange. She can’t understand what he is so wound up about. He reveals that finding out about Harry from Harrison reminded him of all of Alice’s lies when she was drinking. Distraught, Alice says she would never have started a relationship with Harry had she known. Later he apologises to Alice – he didn’t want to make her feel she’s not a good mother but he doesn’t know how to get rid of the fear she’ll relapse. She worries things will always be difficult between them because he will never completely trust her. But to Alice, Martha is all that matters. ... Read more

11 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:04

11 Mar 2024


#12

10/03/2024

Alice is enjoying Mother’s Day morning with Chris and Martha. Her gift is a charity shop teacup. Chris jokes she might have had a ceramic wellie boot with a face. She is delighted but concerned something seems off. She asks Chris if he is OK but he says he wants to talk about that tomorrow. She won’t let it go and he reveals angrily that he knows about Harry. Alice says Harrison shouldn’t have told him. She had planned to but the time wasn’t right: if anyone should be angry it should be her. He counters, that as an addict, she must have seen the signs in Harry. Tony and George are hanging cow hides at the tearoom. Fallon is unsure, commenting they may make the place look darker. Tony is enthusiastic but George is torn, saying although they are nice Fallon might have a point. She is impatient for them to finish as customers for her Mothering Sunday afternoon tea will be arriving soon. Kate is horrified by the hide, saying she can’t eat a vegan cream tea under an animal’s skin. It’s bad enough to eat it, without displaying it like a trophy. Alice arrives and has an awkward conversation with Fallon about Harrison and his generous gift for Martha. She wishes Fallon luck with her police interview later this week. Alice is reluctant to discuss the matter with Kate but after some prodding, reveals that she and Chris had a horrible row over Harry and what happened with Harrison. Kate is sympathetic but says Alice needs to prioritise her own wellbeing. ... Read more

10 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:09

10 Mar 2024


#11

08/03/2024

WRITER: Katie Hims DIRECTOR: Mel Ward Brian Aldridge … Charles Collingwood Harrison Burns …..James Cartwright Alice Carter ….. Hollie Chapman Chris Carter ….. Wilf Scolding Harry Chilcott ….. Jack Ashton Emma Grundy…… Emerald O'Hanrahan Jakob Hakansson …. Paul Venables Alistair Lloyd ….. Michael Lumsden Jim Lloyd ……. John Rowe Paul Mack …… Joshua Riley Denise Metcalf ……. Clare Perkins Jazzer McCreary ….Ryan McCreary Fallon Rogers ….. Joanna Van Kampen ... Read more

08 Mar 2024

12 MINS

12:56

08 Mar 2024


#10

07/03/2024

Alistair tells Jakob he has to leave. He can’t stay now Denise knows how he feels. Jakob says their partnership means a great deal, particularly as he doesn’t get on well with people. As he begs Alistair not to talk to Doug today, Don James turns up instead, and he’s a lot less amiable. The team is shaken after his visit. He leaves them a list of 50 things they need to improve. Alistair says they just have to take on the useful stuff and ignore the rest. Then he announces his plan to leave the practice, shocking Denise. And Paul says nothing Alistair is saying makes sense – everyone loves him. Angry, he demands to know why Denise is so quiet. He says his colleagues are being really weird and accuses Alistair of lying. Jakob snaps at Paul to shut up – and rants that Paul talks constantly and acts like the whole world revolves around him. Paul leaves, hurt, but Jakob is unrepentant. Emma tells Fallon she and Ed still haven’t decided whether to accept money from Will for the tree surgery business. As Emma goes on insensitively about how secure Harrison’s career is as a policeman, Fallon reveals that, in fact, there’s a chance he could lose his job. Harrison turns up and asks Emma whether Tracy might let him take over captaining the cricket team. She says she’ll make quiet enquiries. Later Fallon suggests he might consider taking a second job instead. They have no way of knowing what’s going to happen with the hearing. ... Read more

07 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:09

07 Mar 2024


#9

06/03/2024

Jakob is on his way out and lets Denise and Paul know their boss Doug Lovell plans to visit tomorrow. They agree they’re glad it’s not Doug’s partner Don, who has an edge. As he leaves Denise tells Paul she spoke to John on the phone last night, and he cried. Alistair is excited about dinner on Friday night but Denise is having second thoughts. Later Paul says John has messaged to say he had an amazing conversation with Denise and he feels a lot better. She tells Alistair John cried on the phone and wants to try again. Alistair is crushed and tells Jakob he’s thinking of leaving the practice. Jakob tells him bluntly that he’s lying. Alistair confesses he can’t cope with working with Denise while he feels so strongly about her. Jakob begs him not to say anything to Doug when he visits tomorrow. Later Alistair tells Jim Denise has decided to work on her marriage. Jim is sorry, so is Alistair. Alice visits the shop to invite Jim and Jazzer to Martha’s birthday. Jim says he plans to go back to bed with a book, reminding Alice that it’s World Book Day and she doesn’t have an outfit for Martha. Jim suggests he look through costumes left over from Ambridge panto but his suggestions are unsuitable for a three year old. But material for a Very Hungry Caterpillar costume is a hit. Brian checks in on Alice and they reminisce about Jenny – it’s Mother’s Day on Sunday. Alice says she has asked Harry to speak up for Harrison and she believes he will. ... Read more

06 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:14

06 Mar 2024


#8

05/03/2024

Emma and Fallon await the arrival of Tony’s cowhides for the tea room walls. Emma voices her suspicion that Fallon faked illness to avoid yesterday's corporate event. Harry turns up to order coffee and a croissant. Fallon is far from happy to see him. When she brings his order to the table he says he has come to apologise – and stresses he would never have put in a complaint against Harrison: He has been called to testify at the disciplinary hearing and will speak up on Harrison’s behalf. Then he asks Fallon if Alice might ever take him back. Fallon, furious, tells him to finish his drink and leave. Emma, intrigued by their body language, asks if Harry has done something to Alice. Fallon tells her they have split up but refuses to go into detail. Emma says she won’t tell, as long as Alice does right by Chris and Martha. Alistair feels odd about enjoying kissing Denise in the medical supply cupboard. She is worried Paul might sense something is going on between them when he appears suddenly and asks what they are doing. They make excuses. Paul says Denise should have been in St Lucia with him and John. He’s worried about how frail his grandma is and the effect her fall has had on his dad. He says John needs Denise – he’s a wreck and on his own out there. Denise says she’ll call John tonight. Alistair asks if he can take Denise out for dinner somewhere out of Ambridge. They make plans for Friday evening. ... Read more

05 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:11

05 Mar 2024


#7

04/03/2024

Denise is picking up biscuits and coffee when she asks Jim if Alistair has had some bad news as he has seems out of sorts. Jim reveals, awkwardly, that Alistair is thinking of leaving the practice. Angry, she confronts Alistair who confesses he’s in love with her. She’s stunned, but thinks it’s nice. He suggests they go for a walk. Although his feelings developed slowly, he was hopeful but fears they aren’t ever going to be together. Denise says she and John should have separated years ago. Being at work with Alistair and John away in St Lucia is the first time she has been truly happy in years. She doesn’t want to have an affair but has feelings for Alistair. Denise says she still feels robbed after they nearly kissed at Christmas - after all a kiss won’t kill anyone. Later, Jim confesses to Alistair that he had spilled the beans to Denise. But far from being angry, Alistair says he and Denise finally had a conversation, and it went very well. A tired Harrison heads to work after a sleepless night to find out whether he has been suspended. Fallon calls in sick so she can be there for him. He returns he is on unofficial leave and restricted to desk duties. The police want to interview Fallon and Alice. They’ll also be taking evidence from Harry. Fallon suggests they make the most of the day and curl up in front of the fire. But neither can relax for thinking about Alice, with Harrison fearing he’ll lose his job. ... Read more

04 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:10

04 Mar 2024


#6

03/03/2024

Brian visits Alice to check in and says he could kill Harry for not being honest about his drinking. She defends him - he has his demons, and she knows how that feels. Brian is not mollified, especially knowing Harrison had to arrest Harry for being drunk and disorderly. He asks Alice if she was ever tempted to drink with him. No, she says. And the strange thing is she never saw him with a drink either. Alice confesses to Brian about the damage she did with Harrison’s boss and Fallon’s decision to distance herself. Both are stunned when Harry turns up with flowers and an apology. Brian is furious and doesn’t hold back, revealing that Harrison faces a threat to his career because of Harry’s selfishness. Harry says he’s trying to get help and would do anything to make things right. Later, Alice calls him to apologise about Brian. She also asks him to speak up in Harrison’s defence at his disciplinary hearing. Jim is tentative as he tells Alistair he’s invited Jazzer for Sunday lunch. He’s worried there might be some awkwardness between them over Jazzer’s comments about Alistair’s feelings for Denise. Alistair assures him there won’t be after Jazzer’s speech at The Bull and agrees to make his special roast potatoes. The three enjoy lunch and a game of scrabble, with Jazzer getting a triple word score - putting down ‘liaison’, pushing Alistair into last place. Announcing he’s made a decision, Alistair says he is going to speak to management about a transfer. Jim and Jazzer are aghast, telling him the idea is insane. ... Read more

03 Mar 2024

13 MINS

13:16

03 Mar 2024


#5

01/03/2024

Susan tells Jim that her birthday helicopter ride was marred when they had to watch one of Ambridge’s oldest oak trees being chopped down at the EV Charging site. Jim’s appalled because it wasn’t referenced in the plans. Later, Neil and Jim confront Justin, who points out that he and CellCharge have done nothing wrong legally. However, Justin agrees to plant some new oak trees as a good will gesture. When Jim and Neil wonder why Justin’s acquiesced, he explains it’s because he promised Lilian he wouldn’t always put business first. When Alice tells Fallon that she’s split up with Harry, Fallon’s really sorry that it didn’t work out. Alice is glad Harrison and Fallon told her about Harry’s drinking but wonders whether Harry’s put in a complaint about Harrison. Fallon explains that Harrison decided to tell his boss anyway, but now Harrison’s under investigation. Alice is apologetic and wonders what she can do to help. Later, she and Fallon wait outside the police station to speak to Harrison. Alice thinks if she explains the situation to his boss, it might make a difference. But when Inspector Norris appears, instead of waiting to check with Harrison first, Alice heads off to talk to her. As Alice lets slip that Harrison also talked to Fallon about Harry, Harrison turns up. Inspector Norris explains she has no choice now but to refer this new information to the investigation. When Inspector Norris leaves, angry Harrison tells Alice that she’s made things worse, and Fallon adds she can longer get involved in Alice’s dramas. Alice needs to leave them alone. ... Read more

01 Mar 2024

12 MINS

12:59

01 Mar 2024


#4

29/02/2024

Alice is uncomfortable when Jim mentions Harry was in the shop the other day and was singing her praises. Jim’s pleased because he thinks Alice deserves some luck. Later, Adam’s shocked when he hears that Alice and Harry have split up. Alice explains how Harry’s in denial about his drinking and that she feels sorry for putting Harrison and Fallon in such a difficult position. She berates herself for not spotting Harry’s drinking – but it explains Harry’s mum’s behaviour. She obviously didn’t want Harry in a relationship with another alcoholic. Adam thinks that Alice did absolutely the right thing by breaking up with Harry. He’s really proud of her. But Alice thinks it confirms why she feels she doesn’t deserve good things happening to her. She had something good with Chris but then destroyed it. And when Jim said to her earlier about deserving some luck, she really doesn’t think she does. Later Alice is moved when Jim tells her that she’s doing a wonderful job of raising Martha. Neil and Susan sip champagne as they wait for Susan’s 60th birthday helicopter ride. Susan feels like a billionaire’s wife but would choose Neil over a billionaire any day. They enjoy flying over Ambridge and spotting familiar landmarks but are shocked when they notice that one of the oldest oak trees in Ambridge is about to be chopped down at the EV Charging site. Susan’s happy for Neil to ring Justin before their Afternoon Tea at Lower Loxley and Neil thanks Susan for caring as much about the tree as he does. ... Read more

29 Feb 2024

13 MINS

13:08

29 Feb 2024


#3

28/02/2024

Jim mentions to Alistair that the EV Charging Station is making great progress. When Jim points out how frosty things appear between Alistair and Jazzer, Alistair explains it’s because Jazzer was a bit judgey when he asked him for some advice about Denise. When Alistair admits to Jim that he’s in love with Denise, Jim’s not surprised; it’s clear they’re fond of each other. However, Jazzer thought that despite their mutual feelings, Alistair shouldn’t get involved with Denise because she’s married. Tracy’s annoyed with Jazzer for the poor turn out at The Bull quiz last night. Jazzer had put word out that people should take care after the dog attack on Kenton. Later Jazzer outlines to Kenton his idea for a one night only ‘Jazzer Special’ to encourage people back to The Bull. But Tracy worries it will go wrong and Jolene’s equally stressed when Kenton explains Jazzer’s plans. Jim visits Jazzer as he’s practicing ‘Parkour in the Pub’ even though Jazzer hasn’t ever done it before. When Jim broaches the subject of Alistair and Denise, Jazzer’s adamant that Alistair shouldn’t act on his feelings, because of Denise’s marital status. But Jim points out that we only have one life, and that both he and Jazzer need to trust Alistair to do the right thing. Later at a packed Bull, Jazzer’s chickened out of the parkour and left Jim to explain to the assembled crowd that Jazzer’s ‘injured himself’. Then Jazzer takes to the floor to make an emotional speech, indirectly telling Alistair that life is short and that he trusts Alistair to make the right decision. ... Read more

28 Feb 2024

13 MINS

13:14

28 Feb 2024


#2

Bonus Episode: When Helen met Rob – the story so far

In April 2016 Helen Archer was arrested for stabbing her husband Rob Titchener during a row. One of the most closely followed trials in British radio drama history saw calls to domestic abuse helplines increase by 17%. This bonus catch-up edition charts the romance and the emerging coercive control, including Rob’s physical abuse of Helen, through to Helen taking her life in her own hands and stabbing Rob, and the insidious impact of Rob’s return on the family at Bridge Farm. If you are suffering domestic abuse or violence, a list of organisations that can provide help and support in the UK is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline Helen Archer ….. Louiza Patikas Rob Titchener ….. Timothy Watson Kirsty Miller ….. Annabelle Dowler Tony Archer ….. David Troughton Pat Archer ….. Patricia Gallimore Tom Archer ..... William Troughton Johnny Phillips ….. Tom Gibbons Anna Tregorran ….. Isobel Middleton Lee Bryce ….. Ryan Early Jury foreman ….. Nigel Havers Narrator: Annabelle Dowler Written and produced by Mel Ward The Archers Editor is Jeremy Howe A BBC Audio Drama Birmingham production ... Read more

16 Jun 2023

20 MINS

20:43

16 Jun 2023


#1

Making Mince Pies with Jill Archer

Join Jill in the kitchen at Brookfield as she makes a batch of her much loved mince pies ... Read more

09 Dec 2019

12 MINS

12:50

09 Dec 2019