24/08/2010

Elizabeth and Lily shop for schoolwear. Nic says Mia's looking forward to school with Jake. Elizabeth reveals she has long planned to send her own children to Clavisborne boarding school.

Nigel points out that Bert has left a parcel of runner beans under the "console desserte", spoiling the image for visitors. The beans are for Grant who works in the shop. He and his wife would like to grow their own vegetables. Realising there's a shortage of allotments in South Borsetshire, Nigel suggests to Elizabeth they could lease some of his land to help proactive young people get projects off the ground. Elizabeth thinks the idea's ridiculous. Besides, they have too much work to do for the weekend's steam rally.

Susan and Nic speculate on the possible sale of the Bull. Like Susan, Nic's after recipe ideas. Bert suggests stuffed marrow, but Susan wants to compete with exotic cook Jennifer. Pat warns Susan against making an unfamiliar dish.

Helen hopes that local celebrity chef Shelley's ideas will appeal to younger customers at next week's local food day. Shelley's going to give cookery demonstrations. Helen's raring to invite loads of people, but Pat worries that she needs to rest. Helen says she's never felt better.