Mixed Blessings

The new Vicar visits Thomas and Susan, seeking new recruits. Despite their frequent rejections, he invites them to a bring and buy. Meanwhile, Matilda donates an African statue, but William wants it back.

Susan is desperate for a holiday, only Thomas is keen to save the pennies. Edward suggests the couple join him and Annie on their annual trip to The Castle Hotel, Bickermouth, a piece of old England.

Thomas is desperate to impress his boss and jet-set friends, so he joins the badminton club and started using crystal liquor glasses. Susan isn't happy when Thomas says that he's invited his new friends to dinner, and Carole offers to help.

It's Annie and Edward's silver anniversary, but the pair don't want a fuss. Thomas and Susan organise a surprise party, only sorting out the guest list proves a challenge.

The police call Thomas and Susan early to inform them that Winston has been arrested for breaking into a car. When William hears, he wants to help his son out, even if it means going to prison himself.

Edward informs Thomas that his estranged Uncle Charlie has died, Thomas isn't upset, but he's shocked when Edward informs him that the body is being delivered to his and Susan's flat the night prior to the funeral.

Edward and Annie pay a visit to Thomas and Susan, together with Grandad. The young couple are placed in an awkward situation when Edward announces that it's their turn to care for Grandad. Meanwhile, Grandad takes a shine to Susan's aunt.

Susan is now seven months pregnant, and her mother is treating her like valuable china as is Thomas. To become the perfect father, Thomas attends classes and returns home with all sorts of leaflets and a fake baby to look after.

A friendly game of family cards turns sour. Edward leaves in a fit of pique, only to encounter heavy snow, meaning the whole family has to spend the night together, under the same roof, where tempers get somewhat exercised.