Jackie is putting in more work at the farm, much to Jack's and Matt's amusement. Dolly has decided to start working at the village playgroup three mornings per week, and she hs signed Matt up to be Father Christmas. Alan doesn't know how to work his new computer, but he doesn't want his superiors to know that so he avoids their phone calls. Pat is disappointed that Sandie hasn't come home for Christmas, and she wants to go to Aberdeen to visit her. John manages to get Alan to keep Jock employed for a few weeks more, claiming he needs the extra help. Matt goes to the quarry to talk to Mowlam about the delivery of stones that he promised. He's not impressed with the way Mowlam is treating his dog which irritates him. Jackie goes to Hotten to meet his friends, and they say they've found a way