The Archers - 20/12/2009

At Lower Loxley's 'Deck the Hall' event, Nigel's impressed by the festive-looking barn. Joe and Vicky have been working hard making the kissing boughs, though they've had fun too, helped by the cider punch. Vicky's concerned when Joe decides to sell the boughs as he can't wait for the Christmas Eve market, implying that Nigel has given him permission. He's also made loads more punch. Also at Lower Loxley are Oscar and Caz, who chats to Nic, Mia and Jake. The children are looking forward to seeing Father Christmas, played by a rhyming Bert Fry. Although Helen is daunted at the prospect of seeing Nic's children after her nightmarish babysitting attempt, Jake and Mia are delighted to see her. Helen and Vicky help Jake and Mia make a kissing bough which Jake proudly shows to Nic. Then they head off to see the fairies. Despite Elizabeth's concerns when Bert recites a warning rhyme to a naughty boy, the event is a success and everyone has a lovely day - finished off by a treetop walk. Helen holds Oscar for a few moments and is disappointed when she has to hand him back. Caz coos to Oscar what a lovely time they're having - if only his daddy were there, everything would be perfect. Episode written by Caroline Harrington.