The Archers

Beth and Steph both enjoyed their recent night out but that doesn’t help Beth make sense of Steph’s plans for her Suddenly Single party, which includes a stripper. Beth tries to persuade Steph to cancel the party. Steph’s defensive at first but then seems like she might come round. Ben arrives with the decorations Steph requested. Steph quickly dismisses her and Beth’s conversation. They look through the items and Steph gets more excited to Beth’s consternation. Later Beth asks Ben why he’s supporting Steph’s party when it’s a terrible idea. Ben accepts she might be right but tries to offer a more positive view. Beth apologises for having a go at him but then accuses him of encouraging Steph just to get their own space again. Ben talks her down, saying there is only so much she can do to protect her sister. She sees his point and agrees it would be great to have her room back to herself. Alice gives her version of Martha’s accident in the playground to Sam the social worker. She declares that she’s an alcoholic in recovery and Sam assures her he’s not there to catch her out. Alice explains it’s been fraught between her and Chris lately due the financial settlement and care hearing for their divorce. Alice is surprised when Sam asks about Chris’s relationship with Amy. Alice defends Chris and denies the relationship had any impact on his care for Martha. She concludes that it’s money that has poisoned their divorce and she’s not even sure how it has all become so stressful.