Mike tells Brian that Abbie is coming home tomorrow, Hayley's birthday. They are having a surprise party. Brian says that Tom and Brenda have given notice on the Nest. Mike suggests some ways to encourage more people to make use of the Millennium Wood at minimal cost. Brian runs it past Jennifer who agrees to supply picnic tables and benches, if Mike organises the labour. Pat questions Ruth about Matt's involvement in the biodigester. Ruth assures her he only has a minority interest. Pat then asks Brian. He doesn't know much more but discloses that Borchester Land have an approximate one-third share. This horrifies Pat, along with the fact that Matt is one of the directors. She knows he won't be doing it for the good of the community. Shula warns Ruth about journalist Ross Adams, saying that he called Alistair looking for gossip. Mike sends Ross on his way, saying he likes both Usha and Alan and has nothing against them. Ross catches up with Shula. She tells him she supports the engagement but Ross tricks her into releasing more information than she'd wanted to. Shula realises and is left feeling upset and angry. Episode written by Nawal Gadalla.