25/03/2015

Helen can see that something is bothering Rob. He tells her there are problems at Berrow Farm, with knock-on effects from the flood. Charlie has tasked Rob with identifying 'stress points'. He feels it's annoying the staff.

Rob and Helen go to the packed-out flood meeting, which Alan chairs. Feelings are running high and Rob hopes for some balanced opinions. A National Flood Forum representative is there, as are the Borchester Echo, Westbry Courier and Radio Borsetshire.

Lynda starts the debate. Rob defends Berrow Farm and Susan speaks up for the new road. Adam talks about taking better care of the land, and then David comes up to say his piece. Susan takes exception, but David announces that he is in fact staying in Ambridge. There just hasn't been a moment to let the village know, given recent events.

David talks about his duty to the village. He admits he was too ready to take Justin Elliot's money, so lost sight of what was important. He now realizes what a responsibility he - and everyone around him - has to look after their countryside and preserve it for future generations. Others shouldn't make the same mistake he so nearly did.

Lynda is now more sympathetic, but Susan scoffs.