BBC Writersroom is sponsoring a six month part time residency for a produced Birmingham writer, sharing their time between BBC Television Drama, BBC Radio Drama, and Birmingham Repertory Theatre (The REP). 

This is an exciting and unique opportunity to work on major dramas The Archers, Home Front and Doctors, as well as with Birmingham REP on their attachment scheme. 

Find full details of the scheme, including eligibility and how to apply - from the BBC Writersroom.  

IN A NUTSHELL...

You could spend quality time with The REP, as well as:

• THE ARCHERS: Shadow the team, observe the recording studio, work with a producer and develop your own story pitch.

• HOME FRONT: Work with a lead writer, the producer and editor, pitch and develop your own episode and observe in the studio.

• DOCTORS: Shadow the filming and production process, working closely with the series’ producers. Contribute to several episodes of the serial, pitch and write an episode outline and receive feedback. 

KEY DATES...

• Opening date for submissions: Wednesday 2nd December 2015

• Closing date for submissions: Wednesday 6th January 2016 at 5pm

• Shortlisted writers notified: 25th - 27th January 2016

• Selected writers notified: Mid-February 2016

• Residency begins: Feb/March 2016 - TBC

Writers who are resident in Birmingham throughout 2016 should apply by submitting a script for stage, radio or screen, a CV and evidence of production (at any level) to The REP by 4th January 2016.

There are all sorts of ways for communities to come together and celebrate at Harvest Festival time. Some people like to combine it with another tradition - Apple Day.

Here's a look back at a few memorable Harvest Festivals and Suppers in Ambridge...

What is Harvest Festival? - a Wikipedia guide

BBC Bitesize - a guide to the Christian tradition

Why not tell us about YOUR Harvest Festival memories in the COMMENTS section below.

SHARE YOUR STORIES and pictures on Facebook, and  on Twitter using #thearchers

HARVEST FESTIVAL IN AMBRIDGE...

THE MODERNIZED HARVEST FESTIVAL…

In 1989, Vicar Jerry Buckle experimented with a more modern festival to see how the locals liked it. He concentrated on the agricultural aspect of the community, asking local farmers to lend livestock. There were calves in a pen outside the church and a bucket of slurry to represent fertility. Free range eggs were included among the donated produce.  

HARVEST SUPPER…

In bygone days, the traditional supper was boiled beef and onions, with plum pudding to follow.

Villagers paid for a ticket and proceeds have gone to a range of good causes – from national charities to helping with local projects.  

It’s a popular event and most of the village go along – there’s plenty of cider to drink and sometimes singing (Tom Forrest has been known to test his lungs.)

PLAYING HOST TO THE HARVEST SUPPER:

The Village Hall: Before changing shape in the early 1980s, the supper table used at the village hall was a horse-shoe – with the bosses at the top and workers down the arms. And since then, the supper has been held at various locations, including The Bull Upstairs and local farms.

Bridge Farm: In 2008, Pat and Tony thanked the village for their support in seeing off Borchester Land’s threat to turn their packhouse into a luxury home. It also coincided with Grange Farm’s Open Day and prompted another thank you: from Oliver to Ed on his determination not to let the TB in the Grange Farm herd defeat him. 

‘RICH MAN, POOR MAN’…

In 2012, Ed and Emma were out of money again and George wanted to take some food for the harvest festival at school. He raided their tin cupboard, but was told to put the beans and the soup back and only take the pineapple.

Ten years earlier, one third of the guests got a proper meal and two thirds got rice and water.  As luck would have it Joe got a poor meal and Brian got a rich one.

"SWING YOUR PARTNER"...

There have been several barn dances over the years, with Jolene doing the calling and also singing with her band. In 2007, Fallon persuaded a reluctant Ed onto the floor for a do-si-do - was it here that Ed (now happily married to Emma) looked at Fallon as more than a friend?

DYEING TO IMPRESS…

In 1982, Jill went to a beauty parlour and had her hair dyed for the occasion. Mrs P didn’t approve, so Jill washed it out.  

In 1995, Kate didn’t go because there was no vegetarian food on the menu. This year also marked Tom Forrest’s 85th birthday: Roy let the cat out of the bag and told Tom that he'd be guest of honour at supper, which turned out to be a great success. Tom was presented with a framed photo of himself as a baby with the rest of his family. He made a delightful speech and a good time was had by all.

CONSUMING TO EXCESS…

In 1983, Walter pretended he knew a recipe for a Borsetshire Harvest Brew. Persuaded by Richard into making it, Walter got Dan to help make a recipe up.

Walter and Dan experimented to make the brew and ended up getting very drunk. Tom, Phil, and Nelson found them at Honeysuckle Cottage, drunk and asleep in the living room.

If you've been taking part, we hope it was a bumper one!...

Catch up with Harvest 2015 on BBC Two 

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"Debbie!" -

Definition: An exclamation or cry of great joy. Used in multiples and/or capitals to express ever greater quantities of pleasure.

Well, so says the Archers’ Listener Guide to Euphemisms.

Tamsin Greig on Debbie:

Debbie Aldridge is the sharp-witted, independent, farmer business-woman, step-daughter of a wealthy capitalist farmer philanderer. She likes to ride her horse, her life and her family with expert control.

Find out more about Debbie – and Tamsin – in our Who’s Who.

Low points?:

Debbie has been called in by Brian to sort things out between him and Adam. She's had her own crises, of course, not least in her love life:

The abusive Simon Pemberton:  The Grundys suffered a disastrous fire in their milking parlour, losing equipment and 34 cattle. Simon Pemberton, now the Estate owner, seized the opportunity to get rid of them on the pretext that it was through their own neglect. When he lost at a tribunal, he savagely turned on his then girlfriend Debbie Aldridge.

Shula encouraged Debbie to report the assault. To general dismay, Simon escaped with a £200 fine. But it spelled the end of his association with Ambridge.

The irresistible Simon Gerrard:  An on-off relationship with older lecturer Simon resulted in marriage. They divorced after three years and his affair with a woman called Jeanette - the wife of his Head of Department. Simon had managed to crawl back into Debbie's arms, saying he wanted to start a family - but kept the affair going until he was caught out. Brenda Tucker was also attracted to Simon, and for a time Brian and Debbie suspected them of seeing each other - this was all cleared up though.  

...perhaps dating men who aren't called Simon was a step in the right direction for Debbie (no offence to any lovely Simons out there).

Highlights?:

These obviously include her successful career and opportunities to travel. For us, though, it's her quick wit and turn of phrase - a call back to Home Farm usually includes a stinging or sarcastic one-liner to Brian.

And here's one Brian didn't see coming:

Four things you might not know about young Deborah Aldridge…

1- Adam and Debbie’s joint management of the land started early: In 1977, 7 year old Debbie and her 9 year old half brother were both given a corner of the garden to cultivate (they started with lettuces, one of which Debbie gave as a gift to Peggy).

2- Debbie's first pony was called Moonbeam - bought for 63 guineas at the Horse Fair by Brian and Jennifer. 

3- Debbie seems a bit more certain than Tamsin Greig when it comes to making career decisions.  Here’s an interview from BBC Radio 4’s Front Row (listen from 6’30 for the whole feature/ from 14’10 for Tamsin on her own career choices). 

4- Debbie was briefly in love with Gary Horrobin - brother of Susan Carter. Whatever happened to him?...*

*Gary has always lived at home with dad Bert. He enjoys a drink at the Dog and Trumpet. Ah, Debbie -  think of the life you might have had... oh wait, we've covered that story haven't we:

"I'm related to a Horrobin!"

- Jennifer Aldridge (Aug, 2010)

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On the eve of Fallon's 30th birthday, actor Joanna Van Kampen shares a few thoughts about her time in Ambridge....

Jo, what are your first memories of working in Ambridge?

I remember being really nervous and not daring to go into the green room until a few minutes before the read-through started. I used to be quite shy. Buffy Davis took me under her wing straight away.  She came round to my flat in Chiswick and told me all about the job. She’s always been amazing - my first scene was with her.

I remember thinking I won’t be around in Ambridge very long. But now, 15 years later, I’m so happy to still be here. I remember celebrating in the Park with my boyfriend and a bottle of champagne!

 How has Fallon changed over the years?

I remember starting out she was this narky teenager, and I was told she’ll probably get pregnant or into trouble soon. From being rebellious and difficult I think the character has changed and matured into someone different. 

Are you and Fallon very different?

When you play a character for so long, you do bring a lot of yourself into it.  We’re quite similar in temperament. But I really don’t have a business head at all. I’m better at being told what to do! She’s very creative and makes things happen – I’m learning to be more like that.

I sort of based Fallon on a friend of mine - a fiery, staunchly Welsh girl called Malley. She’s  really bolshy, but also playful and fun. She’s also emotionally intelligent and quite sensitive.

Can you recall any particularly controversial or challenging storylines?

I guess Fallon taking ecstacy was quite controversial. I also had some emotional scenes when Sid died.  For me just playing the everyday is more challenging, though. Perhaps Fallon needs a bit more controversy.

Which characters and storylines are you grabbed by at the moment?

The storyline between Rob and Helen is so subtle. I also loved the build up to the flood – little clues, things that were going wrong. And now the fall out, with the blocked culvert.

Jennifer and Susan are brilliant and so funny. They’re both snobs in their different ways, such rich comic characters.  Joe Grundy as well – the way he mutters is so cleverly done.  

Can you tell us a bit more about your own life and passions?

Music and singing are a big part of my life. My dad, who died when I was 20, was a cellist and my mum is a violinist. It’s something I’ve always been around. Music has always been a part of Fallon, as it comes from Jolene. Maybe Fallon’s business could become a performance venue – I’d like to see her take to the mic herself.

I have two children. They used to complain but have recently got really into The Archers. They ask things like “why is Rob like that?” They sing happily along to the theme tune. Now that they’re such fans, we listen together in the evenings. I’m very into it.

Can you tell us about some of your more unusual experiences on The Archers?

Recording at Glastonbury in 2003 was pretty unusual – being interviewed by John Peel was amazing. I remember for one hungover scene I didn’t have to get out of my tent. I woke up a bit worse for wear myself to the site of Julie (Beckett, producer) sticking a microphone in to record with. Recording with Bradley Wiggins was another highlight. Most recently, I really enjoyed Blithe Spirit for Radio 4. It was a real treat, getting to work with Julian Rhind-Tutt, and also watching Eleanor Bron and Michael Cochrane being so brilliantly comic. We were encouraged to not try to be our Archers characters playing Noel Coward's characters, so I enjoyed doing the character work on Elvira.   

Would you like to share any funny/ embarrassing moments from recording or ‘backstage’?

When Fallon and Harry the milkman had their first kiss, as actors we hadn’t discussed it. Michael (Shelford (aka Harry)) seemed a bit odd in the studio - he wasn’t looking at me. It came to the kiss and I went in. He didn’t offer his face and I ended up snogging his cheek. When we came out of the studio, it turned out that he’d been ill and had spent the whole recording desperately trying not to be sick.

There are lots of conversations and tomfoolery from the green room that I could tell you about, but it’s probably too rude.  All I’d better say is that Paddy Greene (Jill Archer) is very good value!

How would you like to celebrate your next birthday?  

I have this fantasy of going to a top jazz club, like Ronnie Scotts, and having a little table with a lamp.

And maybe getting up to sing?

Yes, that as well!

Find Fallon in our Who’s Who.

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As chair of the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC), I spend a lot of evenings and weekends driving around the country to meet members at various events. The Archers Omnibus podcast is without a doubt my favourite company on long journeys and I’m so pleased that the young people in Ambridge have a local club that they can get involved with.  Pip, being a farmer’s daughter and a promising agricultural entrepreneur in her own right, is of course the most high profile member from Ambridge. But it’s important to remember that you don’t have to be a farmer to be a young farmer – just aged between 10 and 26 with an interest in rural life. I often think that poor Phoebe would benefit from spending a bit more time at young farmers!

We often hear about the parties and social events that Pip and others in the village go to enjoy. It is true to say that Young Farmers enjoy an active social life and enthusiastically share their stories with one another in the days afterwards. However this aspect of our organisation is about more than just partying. Ambridge is fairly near to local amenities in Felpersham and Birmingham but some of our members work in very remote locations doing isolated jobs. Their social time with Young Farmers may well be the only time in a week where they get to meet other like-minded people and discuss things of mutual interest. NFYFC have a campaign called Rural+, which has highlighted some of the issues surrounding rural isolation and mental health. Our members have told us how crucial this work has been in helping them to manage these challenges.

Communities are important for all Young Farmers clubs, as they are based in villages and towns across the country. You will have heard how the young farmers got involved with the organisation of the Sport Relief Rough and Tumble Challenge with Sir Bradley Wiggins last year; I wasn’t surprised to hear that the local members willingly gave up their time to set up, marshall and take down the event, as I see members doing similar things countrywide on a regular basis.  Recently, Ambridge has been devastated by floods. I won’t be alone in having memories of Somerset last year evoked whilst listening to this storyline. The response from young farmers across the country was phenomenal; #Forageaid found itself at the heart of the collective efforts which saw young farmers from all over the country donate forage, transport and time to those in need on the flood plains. Moreover, other members travelled down to take an active role in the clear up by providing important skills and manpower.

The Brookfield drama has gripped us all over the last few months, but for me it has really highlighted the issue of succession planning. It is great to see David and Ruth thinking actively about how they are going to bring Pip into the business should she want to. But not all of our members have such a positive experience. We are working hard to raise awareness of the importance of succession. NFYFC also recognises that it can be difficult for new entrants to start up in agriculture without an existing business or capital, and we work with a number of industry organisations to provide training and support for members in this situation. Moreover, we lobby in both Westminster and Brussels on issues of importance for young people working within the agricultural industry and living in rural areas. We hope that YFC may help Johnny with his career progression in agriculture over the next few years.

I would urge Ambridge's YFC members to seize every opportunity that there is on offer. Competitions form such a large part of the young farmers calendar and develop a range of skills from public speaking to floral art and stock judging to tug of war. I would encourage them to get as many local experts as they can to help them so that they can beat the local Borsetshire opposition and go on to regional and national finals. I daresay Lynda Snell could help to direct the drama and Rob Titchener would be able to give some top tips for dairy judging. Aside from competitions, there are many other training courses on offer to develop skills such as leadership and event budgeting. We even have our own travel programme, so you can travel the world with YFC!

Whether you are inside or outside Ambridge, YFC really does have so much to offer young people in rural areas. If you are aged 10-26, then I would urge you to find out where your local club is, and if you’re a little older than that but know someone in our membership age, please encourage them to join in. We really are #morethantractors

Hannah Talbot

Chair of National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs

• Find out more about NFYFC

May 29^th, 1950 - BBC Midlands Home Service broadcasts a new pilot programme, The Archers of Ambridge. 

The producer Godfrey Baseley had previously worked mainly on agricultural programmes. He hoped that farmers would listen for the stories, but along the way pick up messages that would help them feed a Britain still subject to food rationing.

The cast are Daniel Archer (Harry Oakes), Doris Archer (Nan Mariott Watson), Philip Archer (Norman Painting), Christine Archer (Pamela Mant), Jack Archer (Denis Folwell), Peggy Archer (June Spencer) and Walter Gabriel (Robert Mawdesley).

Thanks to David Lloyd, who paid tribute to The Archers on Twitter.

Find out more and listen to an Archers medley.

You can also hear a clip from the Archers in 1955 on the BBC's iWonder Guide to the History of the BBC

Browse the 1950s picture gallery on Facebook

Read about the life and career of Godfrey Baseley

Mark Hebden, who died in 1994, was an important member of the Ambridge Cricket Club. The cricket team agreed to use the money raised from the pantomime to fund an annual single wicket competition for the “Mark Hebden Memorial Trophy”...

Who will lift the trophy in 2015? Care to place your bets?

Read about how the game is played

Past competitions and winners:

2014 (8th June) This was the same day as Open Farm Sunday, so Alistair was delayed saving the life of a calf at Berrow Farm as its mother died. Dan Hebden Lloyd met Roy Tucker in the final.

WINNER: Dan Hebden Lloyd. It was quite a moment when Shula Hebden Lloyd handed Mark’s memorial trophy over to his son.

2013 (27^th May) Rob Titchener was unaware of the history between the Grundy brothers. Nevertheless he suggested sparks might fly if they had to play each other.  Ed and Will avoided each other in the first round. Josh Archer beat Richard Thwaite but was drawn against Pip Archer in the next round. Will and Ed were also drawn against each other! George Grundy hoped that both his fathers could win. But it was Ed who triumphed. Rob knocked out David Archer and then met Pip in the quarter finals. She had beaten Josh - thanks to a great catch from Tom Archer.  Rob and Ed made the final - mega-dairy versus the little guy.

WINNER: Rob Titchener.  Pip and Ed agreed that it was not the taking part that counted - it's beating your brother.

2012 (10^th June) Kenton Archer was commentating again. Josh put in a good performance, thanks to Iftikar Shah's training. Mike Tucker attempted to explain the rules to Rosa Makepeace but she was more interested in Jamie Perks. David panicked when he couldn’t see Ben - who was quickly found. He had wandered off to buy an ice cream and David gave him an over stern talking to. (This was during the time David was under threat from the men who had attacked Adam Macy)

Throughout the day, Tracy Horrobin flirted with Ifty but to no avail.  When she tried to join him for the trophy presentation, he insisted he wanted to go alone.

WINNER: Jamie Perks.

2011 (30^th May) Shula had to pester people to sign up. There was a bouncy castle, music and a barbecue.  Kenton did the compering.  Jim Lloyd did the scoring. Neil Carter wanted to win because he had been teased about his age by some other members of the cricket team.

On the day Kenton’s commentating increased the tension as the tournament reached its climax. Neil and Christopher Carter were placed against each other.  Chris made a great catch which won the match. Susan congratulated him but thought he should have dropped it and let his dad win - it would have meant a lot to Neil. Neil overheard and insisted he wouldn’t have wanted that.

WINNER: Christopher Carter

2010 (31^st May) Village newcomer Harry Mason wanted to join in - but he wasn’t a resident, so Fallon Rogers put him up at The Bull. Once he had an address Harry put his name forward and started looking for sponsorship (raising money for charity). This was the first sponsored single wicket match. 

A busy year resulted in neither David nor Ed playing, however Jamie and Josh both played – for the first time.

The final round was Tom v Harry…

WINNER: Harry Mason

2009 (25^th May)  Sid Perks and Alistair agreed the event needed more razzmatazz.  Kenton was signed up as Mr. DJ and the cricket club organized a barbecue. Most of the village was asked if they were interested - Debbie Aldridge and her then partner Marshall both joined in. Derek Fletcher had a bad back.

The day went well: Tom got Christopher out and Brenda Tucker got Fallon out in one of the semi-finals. 

The final was between Tom and Brenda. Tom was caught out – Eddie suggested he throw the match so that Brenda could win, which is what she did. 

WINNER: Brenda Tucker

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With Susan's canon-ball Christmas pudding still clogging his intestines, PC Burns seized the moment, some mistletoe and got the girl...

Dear Father Christmas & @BBCTheArchers All I want for Christmas is for Fallon & PC Burns to get back together. Love Rebecca (age 31) [@Shippers1983 on Twitter]

I thought he was going to propose!! [  -@Cymraes44 on Twitter]

Hmm. That was a bit slurpy, even for me....but....aaaaahhhhh. Come on SWs, make this *the one* for Fallon, please?! [Fiona Caroline Messenger on Facebook]

If, in one year's time Jazzer is standing here, then justice will be done. #FallonAndJazzer #thearchers [ @ryanjohnscott on Twitter]

Showing united disapproval of the colour mauve, hackles rose as Rob took Helen shopping...

When WILL Helen wake up to Rob's ghastly controlfreak patriarchy? Can't stand listening & nearly turned off the radio. [Jane Blumer on Facebook]

I don't think you can get charged with conspiracy to commit murder against a fictional character, so who's with me? [@Abnormal4norflk on Twitter]

The most chilling part is the way Helen actually wants Rob to control her. Look how she is relishing being "spoiled" by her man and how flattered she is that he wants her to wear dowager clothes because he wants to protect her. [Elaine Masters on Facebook]

This year's look for the Surrendered Wife: Frumpy Mauve. #TheArchers [@jtwentyman on Twitter]

Kate returned to Ambridge and swiftly got her chakras in a twist when Roy came to visit...

Many things change in #thearchers characters come & go. But comforting to realise that Kate's as obnoxious as ever. [@liz_lizanderson on Twitter]

Aldridge seasonal family tradition: Kate flies in, wait 12 hours, go around the village and start apologising for her #thearchers [@andydmakethetea on Twitter]

Carol & Kate should get together for an alternative Christmas of chakra cleaning & herbal infusions. Sounds marvellous #thearchers [@Furtherfrom on Twitter]

Charlie's kilt proved the undoing of Adam as he succumbed to temptation at the Lower Loxley Ball...

Don't blame it on the contract. Don't blame it on the moonlight. Don't blame it on the hip flask. Blame it on the kilt. [@ExeterDormouse on Twitter]

Oo Adam *darling* you naughty boy and I bet he can't even cook. [‏@gilly38 on Twitter]

Bloody stupid Adam - you FOOL!!!! [Anne Thompson on Facebook]

Glad that Adam & Charlie finally got their snog but typical of drippy Helen to ruin the moment! [Maggie Mumford on Facebook]

Would you? This guy has treated him like dirt, patronised him, deprived him of work and income and more or less said he's just another thing on his want list. He is also a toxic piece of work . Adam is beyond pathetic. [Chris Walmsley on Facebook]

Jill had a change of (broken) heart and revealed that she could not leave Ambridge with David and Ruth...

The very last #thearchers Phil recorded was the sixpence in the stir up Sunday episode with his DoB *tears up [@jackieschneider on Twitter]

Glad Jill spoke up, but David's reaction a bit unkind... he's probably also wondering if he'll ever get another decent roast dinner if Ruth is left to do the cooking! [Ann Brosnan on Facebook]

Jill Archer's Staying in Ambridge. Frozen pizza for Christmas 2015 in Prudhoe #TheArchers [@Emily_Thomas73 on Twitter]

FLOS must have been spitting feathers as Lynda Snell's production of Blithe Spirit got an airing on Radio 4 [you can still listen to Blithe Spirit here]

I’d have like to hear Neil as Charles! [Camera5hy on The Archers blog]

Susan as Prospero Susan as Lady Macbeth Susan as King Lear Susan as Juliet Susan as Hedda Gabler Susan as Mother Courage#thearchers [@Ifwehadanyham on Twitter]

Well done on the special effects, Robert and Neil! #blythespirit #thearchers [@FranklinHabit on Twitter]

Elvira is the spiritual manifestation of Jess, isn’t she? #blithespirit #TheArchers [@FurnessGirl on Twitter]

Join the conversation

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• Have your say on The Archers Facebook page

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Sign up for the SAVE campaign with Jenny and Lynda

• On Facebook

• Follow SAVEAmbridge on Twitter

Or join the discussions on Archers fan forums:

• Mustardland / Peet’s Place

• Mustardland / smeesue’s board

Keep the feathers, Clarrie. We may need to tar and feather Justin Elliot and Charlie soon. #thearchers (@archerslistener on Twitter)

The combination of David and Ruth's cancellations and the price of free-range turkeys should make this a good Grundy Christmas! (Sara Olivier on Facebook)

5 minutes of Grundy Christmas makes me consider the merits of goose for Christmas #thearchers (@Felix_keeps_on on Twitter)

Alarm bells were ringing as Jill was feeling somewhat peaky…

Lizzie is a bit forcefully nominating someone else's home for Christmas.....like she doesn't have room at the stately home..... #thearchers (@MoiraWalton on Twitter)

In drama terms a character being 'off colour' heralds imminent death. (Christine Wilson on Facebook)

Perhaps early stage ebola (Martine Meeks on Facebook)

I've been worried about Jill for ages - and she must feel so depressed and betrayed (Trisha Lesley McCarthy on Facebook)

Jill, it's not a heart attack it's a broken heart with the thought of leaving Brookfield. (Nigel Blythe on Facebook)

Many were touched by scenes by Tony's bedside, while others saw a financial opportunity...

It made me sad when she said he squeezed her hand... sad memories. Touching. (Chris Walmsley on Facebook)

Would be lovely if Tony made positive steps towards recovery by Christmas. (Ann Stokes on Facebook)

The Archers Christmas Snufferee Stakes. Jill 2/1. Tony 11/4. Helen 25/1. 100/1 bar. (@Jollyhorse on Twitter)

As rehearsals for Blithe Spirit continued, artistic differences emerged… but Alice wasn’t the only one who was finding Lynda trying...

Go Alice...tell that ridiculous, self appointed controller of everything & everyone in the village just how pompous and rude she really is. (Maggie Vella on Facebook)

I think Noel Coward would have loved Lynda and found her endlessly fascinating ~ as do I and many others. (Jean Bell on Facebook)

Lynda is a deeply passionate woman and an inspiring leader !!. Maybe she isn't always able to moderate her delivery and this can sometimes come across as being inconsiderate of others. It is not easy being Lynda. (Kathy Jones on Facebook)

Shame about Helen dropping out of Blithe Spirit. I was looking forward to hearing her play wife number two . . . (Judy Fovargue on Facebook)

Lynda should be given Christopher's line, and tell Alice, "Snout OUT!” (Rosie Taylor on Facebook)

I *heart* Lynda. She speaks the truth to Helen. (And I ADORE Carol too - I hope to be her when I grow up.) (@janewright on Twitter)

And finally there was little sympathy for David and Ruth as they adjusted to being the most hated people in Ambridge.

Ruth, you really are a marvel: you spend months on your moral high horse about the evils of Justin Eliot, jump off for long enough to grab your millions & then jump back on, wailing about folk being 'judgemental'! Nothing like a self pitying hypocrite to wind us all up? (Maggie Mumford on Facebook)

They have always been utterly dippy, this is totally in character (Improbably Named on Facebook)

How is it that Jim's disappointment feels so much worse than anything anyone else has said to David & Ruth. #thearchers (@KatySwiftKnit on Twitter)

David only dropped in to get his copy of Judas Weekly (@Arfur6pence on Twitter)

Principles vs 7.5 million, I know what I'd do (but I don't have close family ties to where I live)… I'd move heaven and earth to be near my mum if she needed me. (Louise Hepton-Lloyd on Facebook)

Join the conversation

Here on The Archers blog

• Have your say on The Archers Facebook page

• Follow @BBCTheArchers on Twitter and chat about #thearchers

Sign up for the SAVE campaign with Jenny and Lynda

• On Facebook

• Follow SAVEAmbridge on Twitter

Or join the discussions on Archers fan forums:

• Mustardland / Peet’s Place

• Mustardland / smeesue’s board

I'll have what he's having. @BBCTheArchers (@darwinboerne on Twitter)

To marry one Grundy brother may be regarded as a misfortune to marry both looks like carelessness. (Andy Hollingdale on Facebook)

Poor Ed stuck with Emma for the rest of his life. He doesn't deserve that ;) (Little Rach Lockwood-Davis on Facebook)

Let the immasculation of Ed continue. (@PhillipMcCull on Twitter)

All together now ahhhhhhhhhhh. Glad one of the women in #TheArchers is actually being a modern feminist. (@moiness on Twitter)

Ed. A word of advice. Before marrying a woman, just stand back a minute and have a look at the mother. #thearchers *ducks for cover. (@Airscaper on Twitter)

... and cheers rang out from the ringside seats as Tom took on Rob

That's right, Tom. Better late than never. You put your foot down... on Rob's neck...firmly. #thearchers (@TheVintageYear on Twitter)

Tom's 'grown a pair' at last! Hurrah!! But I reckon it's given Rob the chance to really separate Helen from the family (Susan Wakefield on Facebook)

Rob was reptilian tonight during his showdown with Tom; he was almost hissing. And was that the sound of his scales slithering across the floor as he beat a retreat? (Pauline Wallin on Facebook)

Whoop whoop, Tom v Rob: Gladiators are you ready? Helen's favour attached to someone's flat cap, spud guns primed. Anyone remember those? Still loving the new Tom. (Jenny Padfield on Facebook)

Ungrateful Tom! Poor Rob has at least tried his best & he didn't run away! @BBCTheArchers (@goodykit on Twitter)

Some cried, some were still off their fondant fancies, as Peggy blamed her will for Tony's accident...

*Tony sits bolt upright* "Get your gran a pen, Tom!" #thearchers (@Jeremy_Peake on Twitter)

She has to wait til her son's at death's door before she tells him. She cried over that bloody cat more. (@AckleyLewis on Twitter) 

Excellent episode, difficult to see that Tony will recover and there are now so many potential real life stories from this (Eileen Beesley on Facebook)

can the misty eyed on here spare a thought for the fact that to pour your heart out to someone who can hear but cannot reply is downright selfish and actually is only for the benefit of the person talking. That brings a tear to my eye - for the PATIENT. (Jayne Callaghan on Facebook)

And as The Archers siblings queued up for the cash, you questioned whether Jenny and Brian justified in their reaction...

Shula: "I wonder what Kenton's thinking?" WOHOO!! MONEY SHOWER!! WE'RE RICH, RICH, RICH!! #thearchers@BBCTheArchers - (@tarapersaud  on Twitter)

I think the splitting of the farm is a King Lear type test. And they all failed #thearchers ( @MarieAnneMcQuay on Twitter)

 "A life-changing sum of money" yes David, minus all your siblings' investments, minus taxes etc minus all your friendships. (@katyscottkaty on Twitter)

Jenny would have held out for £7.5 million AND a new kitchen. (@iancpeacock on Twitter)

Lakey Hill has now been renamed 'The Moral High Ground' - and Brian's pitched his tent on it. #thearchers (@Commont8r on Twitter)

Brian and Jennifer extolling community above cash - now I really HAVE heard it all (@OnceByton on Twitter)

And finally, it was Mike Tucker’s birthday and listeners sent their birthday wishes, including Terry Molloy who plays him

Oh, my ears & whiskers! How lovely! What a bonny baby I was! Thank you...I feel the luurve! (@tuckerspatch on Twitter)

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Let’s get the important question out of the way first. We saw this on Twitter and thought it was rather good.

If you answer YES to 5 or more of these questions, you may need to seek help. [@Okeating on Twitter]

“Was there a boyscout badge for knobbly knees?” asked Brian. So we asked what badges he would have got already:

Creative cravat-tying [@elnora_c on Twitter]

Rampant adultery? [@janeskinner2 on Twitter]

Expert Philandering [@tabby_whisperer on Twitter]

Not 'being prepared' that's for sure. Otherwise there'd have been no Rhuari. [@Whyjay90 on Twitter]

Rutting [@debicing on Twitter]

Whittling [@Dark_Blue_Box on Twitter]

Best oneliners badge plus best foot forward in face of adversity badge [@SarahBrummitt on Twitter]

Loafing (Tasselled Version) [@Our_Freda on Twitter]

Peggy is 90, and the preparations for her party were lengthy, involving hair appointments, a special cake, and a delivery from Matt and Lillian:

I trust Lilian cos what you see is what you get #gin [@lauradavies on Twitter]

We asked for your favourite Peggy moments:

Favourite moment was definitely when she was saying bye bye to Jack listening to "Love is The Sweetest Thing". I'm in bits just thinking about it. [Fiona Caroline Messenger on the BBC Archers Facebook]

When Kate whined about Phoebe: "I'm her REAL mother!" she cried. "Only when it suits you, dear," replied Peggy. #ILovePeggy[@eileen_steele on Twitter]

… and then Kate said 'that really hurts' to which Peggy replied 'the truth often does' [@G5Liz on Twitter]

Forgot my Peggy moment. I liked it when she called Jennifer a frightful snob.[Adrian Smith on Facebook]

When Peggy announced her plans for her will then "anyone for a fondant fancy?" [@veclarke on Twitter]

When there was a problem with the urn in the village hall and she said: 'but everyone must have access to tea at all times.' [Carole Stanley on Twitter]

I was never very fond of Peggy, but the storyline with Jack's dementia was perfect and won me over. [@bookwormsarah on Twitter]

And you came up with all manner of ideas to answer this question: "What is the secret ingredient in Freda Fry's shepherds' pie [for that is all anyone seems to order in The Bull]."

Preparation for ‘Blithe Spirit’ continues apace…

I REALLY want to be in The Ambridge production of Blithe Spirit.

[@SusannahvdB on Twitter]

Adam should be cast as Charles in Blithe Spirit. [Maarten van den Heuvel on Facebook]

I think Lynda, you’ll find Helen will NOT be in the play, she hasn’t asked Rob. [@haleofbay on Twitter]

Susan has no time for gossip. she still has to clean the sofa and she is very busy learning her Blithe Spirit lines as Edith : Ýes´M´. Very good, ´M, and that tricky one: Ýes, sir´. [Maarten van den Heuvel on Facebook]

Jazzer, ring Linda. She is looking for someone who is articulate and debonair. [@TonyBabonie on Twitter]

And then, terrible news from Bridge Farm, as Tony, Ed, Johnny and Henry faced down Otto, the angry bull:

Ed was a bit of a hero wasn't he? [Julie Tate on Twitter]

I literally can't cope with this. I'm actually crying. [@roseywilloughby on Twitter]

@roseywilloughby likewise. My jacket potato is drenched and have watered down wine… [@JLS077 on Twitter]

The thing that's troubling me is: who's caring for/about Ed and how he's reacting? The Bridge Farm Archers went into typical self absorption mode in reaction to Tony's injury but Ed, who was the real hero of the incident and must have had a massive shock himself? Who's bothered about his reaction? Could be wandering around somewhere with PTSD. [Ian Berry on Facebook]

Brave Tony. Maybe Peggy will value him at last. Maybe Tom will return and realise that he's now got to be the main support as it's no use relying on Helen and no one wants to risk Rob wresting control while the rest are down. [Elaine Masters on Facebook]

Where did that episode come from? I was gearing up for Peggy tragedy and BANG! I'm a 42 year old man blubbing like a baby. [@bristolfox on Twitter]

Now that was really gripping! Poor Tony, poor Pat! Occasional episodes like that are great drama, though please not more than two or three a year! [Nigel Cropper on Facebook]

Went through a similar attack years ago: hairs up on the back of my neck when I heard that bull #awesomeepisode#intears[@Rosehill_girl on Twitter]

And that’s where we leave you for now. Will Tony recover? Will any of us? Find out next week.

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Jill goes pole dancing, Adam & Ian have pukka pies and chips, Brian has a facial, Jazzer eats sushi, Lynda has a spray tan [@Our_Freda on Twitter]

On Saturdays, the Silents speak [Jane Preece, BBC The Archers Facebook]

On Saturdays, Tilly Button rules the County and the country. As it should be [Di Button on BBC The Archers Facebook - any relation?]

Are they not suspended in frozen animation, Bagpuss style?! [Maggie Mumford on BBC The Archers Facebook]

Saturday? They all go back to their Chelsea retreats for a weekend of reality and grounding! [@KatrinaJenning5 on Twitter]

Perhaps Saturday is when the Radio Borsetshire radio drama omnibus airs? [Riley Kernaghan on BBC The Archers Facebook]

Suspicions were rife that someone was going to come a cropper at the shoot. Ed? Will? In the end, both Grundy brothers and most of the pheasants made it out alive...

‘Lost investment banker‘? Is that some sort of rhyming slang? #thearchers [@PaulRed82sed on Twitter]

Perhaps Rob will be a late invite and someone will shoot him…Please? [Elizabeth Dunn on BBC The Archers Facebook]

I am delighted the slaughter count was so low. What an odious pursuit. [Stephen Āh Burroughs on BBC The Archers Facebook]

Ahh the boys being civil to each other for a change ! [Sue Pidgeon on BBC The Archers Facebook page]

Is it just me, or is Justin modelled on Mr Birling in Cabin Pressure? [Pat Clifton on Mustardland/Peet's Place]

Come on Justin we all know you are really James Bellamy! [@Margaretdeniso on Twitter]

Passions remained high this week with the fall-out from the Route B decision and the ‘For Sale’ sign going up outside Brookfield. With some hoping that a certain other Ambridge family might strike lucky…

Strangely moved by route B decision on #Archers end of an era? [Grayson Perry aka @Alan_Measles on Twitter]

CALLING ALL BADGERS Party: tonight, 7.02, Brookfield Farm. #thearchers [@chinaysa on Twitter]

I think selling Brookfield is a fundamentally flawed idea. Not impressed as just daft [Lindy Cozens on BBC The Archers Facebook]

Let the Grundys have a massive lottery win & buy it, with money to spare for the family to lord it over the village. PLEASE [Alison Bancroft on BBC The Archers Facebook]

I would like Clarrie and Eddie to win the lottery and buy Brookfield. That would shake up a lot of relationships in Ambridge! [@NikkiSinclair64 on Twitter]

It was Borsetshire Blasters at the ready as Ambridge Bonfire Night took place in Jubilee Field. But what was that smell? And who was Johnny chatting up?

I hope the guy is an effigy of 'Henders' #thearchers [@salvatorRosa on Twitter]

I wonder if Adam will get to see Charlie's Roman Candle tonight? [@allanahansell on Twitter]

The smell of Joe's undercrackers burning must be appalling #thearchers [@DustySubstances on Twitter]

Who is Johnny chatting up now? Fallon? Phoebe? Carol Toboggan? #thearchers [@Corporalhumble on Twitter]

So who is Johnny trying to cop off with?...Lynda Snell? [Jeff Slade on Archers Addicts]

Adam was livid when Charlie gave the Bridge Farm contract to RB Farming. But you lot saw another imminent danger afoot for Adam...

Ian is such a lovely man...#perfecthusband Don't throw him away, Adam…#TheArchers [@MozartsGirl on Twitter]

Not the ideal way to woo a man is it, cutting off his contracts *winces* [@maggyg71 on Twitter]

Charlie was vile. I hope that his decision will backfire and come back to bite him on the briefcase [Chris Walmsley on BBC The Archers Facebook]

Adam, Kiss him now! #thearchers [@Massie68 on Twitter]

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The lucky winner and guest will be given:

• A guided tour of the studio in Birmingham where The Archers is recorded;
• The opportunity to meet some of The Archers cast and production team;
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• An Archers script, signed by members of the cast;
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Keri Davies is an Archers scriptwriter and web producer.

BBC Children in Need

Saturday Live

Listeners felt uneasy – and a bit shouty – after Wednesday’s Hunt Ball: “Wake up Helen!”

They appreciated Jill sticking up for her daughter, even if most felt that Elizabeth didn’t deserve any sympathy.

There were cheers for Ed Grundy for inadvertently getting his own back on Susan. And hands up who else was fooled by Ruth’s phone call on Sunday night?

Here’s my pick of the listener discussions between 23 and 29 October 2014.

Henry and friends got a thumbs’ up from listeners after Rob discovered his jacket pocket had been stuffed with cake

I don't know who put the cupcake in Rob's pocket, but when they're 18 I'll buy them a drink #thearchers (@Felix_keeps_on on Twitter)

I was scared for Helen just then and I don't even like her. #thearchers (@TolliganMarms on Twitter)

Listening to Rob is making my skin crawl! (Chris Forbes on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

#thearchers There you are Henry. There's a proper monster. (@rutherian on Twitter)

Listeners continued to feel unsettled during Wednesday’s Hunt Ball, after Rob persuaded Helen to change her dress and to switch to mineral water…

See, that's where I would snap. When he tried to wrest the glass out of my hand. #thearchers (@TreacleToo on Twitter)

Oi! Helen! Wake up! It's 2014!!! (Elaine Edmonds on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

.@BBCTheArchers Can't believe how cross I feel about Rob and Helen! Repeat: The Archers is not real, The Archers is not real #thearchers (@mumma_melly on Twitter)

@BBCTheArchers can some1 give Helen a copy of 'A vindication of the rights of woman' by 7pm even if it's just to hit Rob round the head with (@GemmaThomasIR on Twitter)

Sounds very much like poor Helen (never thought I'd write that) is deemed unworthy of the great Rob's good opinion. She's messy, lets her friends be messy, wears inappropriate dresses and gets giggly on the odd glass of wine. In fact she's [almost] human. Crikey.Cracking if very uncomfortable stuff. (cath on The Archers blog)

Where is Ian when we need him? Help! @BBCTheArchers (@JPicardie on Twitter)

It was horrible ..really chilling how he controlled everything from her dress to her behaviour and what she drank. Getting VERY worried now. Is she beyond help? (Chris Walmsley on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

Oh dear, I have the feeling Helen won't twig until she's locked in the cellar, and even then she might think it's for her own good! (Sue Gedge on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

Many are still wondering whether anything will ever happen between Adam and Charlie.. or perhaps it already has?

Ooooh Charlie & Adam? I had money on them from day one. Could it happen? #thearchers (@sophhopkins on Twitter)

I must be a badddun coz I like the Charlie/Adam flirting! Sometimes you do find yourself attracted to a bad boy. Although I do hope Adam turns him down......but not just yet! (Maggie Mumford on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

Adam, you're married, remember? #thearchers (@GrayJude on Twitter)

I keep getting the suspicion that Adam and Charlie may have had some sort of 'fling' already but I hope faithful Ian wakes up to the fact that he really can't trust Adam at all. (Wendy Stephens on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

Jill was widely praised for her concern for her daughter and standing up to Susan. But most were left unmoved at Elizabeth’s tears…

Oh poor Elizabeth. Did dums. Did the nasty man make you sleep with him? (Susan Wakefield on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

I hope Hayley is getting the same, but in her case deserved, support from her Mother In Birmingham. I am afraid Mrs. Pargeter's heartrending tears left me cold. (Jean Bell on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

I want a mum like Jill Archer! #thearchers (@PoshTigress on Twitter)

It's what mum's do... Unconditional love, even when you are really cross with them. (Gill Chasemore on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

I'm still holding the baton for Roy & Eliz getting together long term. (Bridget Rabbitts on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

I want Roy and Lizzy to get together too and then get the old heave ho when Freddy comes into his inheritance. Yes, I would enjoy that. (Penelope Matheson on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

And so to the village shop – listeners rubbed their hands as Jill walked in…

Oh wow. Is Jill gonna kick some ass? That would be RIGHTEOUS. #thearchers (@Midkipstoat23 on Twitter)

Jill is wonderful! That's Susan told! (Nigel Cropper on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

Jill coming over a bit Goodfellas there, with her veiled threats in the shop.!! #thearchers (@DavidfromBarnet on Twitter)

Jill 1 Susan 0 - excellent result! (Anne Massey on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

As Jazzer, Ed & Roy enjoy a night out, listeners prepare for the worst…

I wish had an enabler like Jazzer in my life #thearchers (@TheMichaelMoran on Twitter)

Ed is such a twit. He moans constantly he has no money and as soon as he gets some he goes out and gets drunk. (Lindsay Phillippa on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

"It's like drinking with a pair of dementors." Line of the night from Jazzer. #thearchers (@beckyblackbooks on Twitter)

Wish young Ed would stop moaning, listen to Jazzy Ed you have more jobs than most people. (mikeoban on The Archers blog)

Poor Susan – she didn’t get much sympathy from listeners after Ed threw up on her sofa

well... that was a jarringly realistic barfing scene on #theArchers (@isaacq on Twitter)

Good old Ed.  Susan's been asking for that for a long time. #thearchers (@ChristchurchPom on Twitter)

Haha! All over Susan would have been better! (Sue Pidgeon on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

The Susan and Ed scene is just like Thora Hird and Alan Bates in A Kind of Loving, 1964, although I think Thora calls Alan 'a filthy boy'! (Shirley Benbow on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

Poor Ed, the Devil and the deep blue sea! Dog poo, coasters, tin foil and dust or a morning with moanin' Wil on shoot! (Lynda Everington on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

"12 cases of Febreze please". Susan phones the village shop's wholesaler #thearchers (@Ifwehadanyham on Twitter)

#thearchers Hahahaha 24 hours later and I'm still laughing about Ed puking on Susan's sofa..You disgusting boy! Hahahaha Thanks Ed! (@Arfur6pence on Twitter)

Listeners were on tenterhooks on Sunday night after Ruth’s phone call – with most thinking that her mum, Heather, had died, listeners wondered who might be to blame…

#thearchers Jill nipped over, killed Heather and returned to the farm, all sweet and innocent. (@verabling on Twitter)

Well, we all saw that coming, What can have happened to Heather? Does Jill have a suitable alibi? Was the gingerbread just too heavy? Agog till Monday peeps. (Jenny Padfield on BBC The Archers Facebook page)

I suspect Carol Tregorran has used some "herbal remedies" on Heather to ensure her chum Jill stays in Ambridge #thearchers @BBCTheArchers (@AnneLiddon on Twitter)

What wind-up merchants you are, @BBCTheArchers. Only a broken wrist?? I've been playing solemn music all day for nothing. (@maryoxford on Twitter)

Tayler Cresswell is The Archers’ social media host

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