11/06/2025

Lilian’s finding arrangements for Peggy’s funeral a good distraction. She notes even though her mum’s no longer with them, her influence can still be felt. Kate and Phoebe update her on the incident with vicar Crispin yesterday, explaining he’s no longer available to officiate. They realise the logical option is to approach Alan. Kate volunteers to call him, and he suggests they chat face to face. Phoebe offers to accompany Kate. Lilian and Tom work on finalising the refreshments for the wake, which feature some of Peggy’s favourite foods. Justin wonders if there’s anything he can do to help, and Lilian gives him the news that he’s been detailed to look after Hilda the cat at the funeral. Justin feels it’s a poison chalice but that he has very little option. Later Lilian admits to Tom that Justin wasn’t specifically nominated by Peggy, but it will keep him out of mischief. Tom thinks it’s worth it purely for the smile it’s brought to Lilian’s face. With trepidation Kate skirts round the subject with Alan until Phoebe asks him directly if he’d consider taking over the funeral. Alan accepts; he’d consider it an honour. With relief all round they discuss the details and tie up all the arrangements. Kate declares Alan’s been wonderful. She really wishes they could have gone with him in the first place. Alan respects the fact he wasn’t Peggy’s first choice but he’ll do everything he can to give her the funeral she deserves. Kate’s confident it will be the perfect send off.