Archers Addicts 4!!

The problem with Rob is not just learned behaviour though LG; I think he has personality disorder issues.

I think we should keep in mind the stats you quote - he could become very angry. Remembering too that people often accuse others of the things they would do themselves I think the way Rob wouldn't let Tony and Pat take Henry out of the country is worrying. What did he think they would do. I have a feeling he could try and take the children out of the UK jurisdiction given half a chance.

I think that now we are more aware of this Vintage we will be spotting it more and more and your thoughts about Victoria and John Conroy does seem like a case in point. I would see Victoria's mother in the Ursula role which is more learned behaviour I feel. Mother's have been known not to defend their children after years of this sort of abuse - it doesn't really bare thinking about does it?

I don't know how many people are following 'Victoria' on ITV, but it's quite clear that Queen Victoria was herself a victim of coercive control as a girl, although obviously non-marital. This was the 'Kensington System', devised by her mother and her mother's adviser John Conroy to break her will so that they could take on a Regency. Fortunately Victoria had her governess and her Uncle Leopold on her side.
Sorry, rather off-topic.

LD being soft is a better trait than hard heartedness IMO. I can feel sympathy for people like Rob in so far as they have learned this behaviour from their own upbringing, but sadly if he continues to be the main influence in Henry's life he will turn out the same. The statistics for women killed by partners is quite horrific, averages about 3 a week I think, not sure how many children also die as result.

I've looked at the spoilers as well and I think a few days away from shouting at the radio might be just the ticket.

You are not wrong LD; you just had a different opinion, so please don't give up on being kind

Ok,.one and all I give in to your better judgement. I know you are right, just felt a tiny bit sorry for him last night at that point. I am a softy I am afraid.

You are right he is the type to kill himself.and both boys! WhAt a strange phenomena that is!!

Just read Radio Times for next week. I couldn't help myself but wish I hadn't.
They were very careful not to reveal outcome of family court but then gave it away in the next sentence.

I think that 'Robs' of this world are so frightening that, in the end, you may well not treat them as your character would dictate in normal circumstances. I would not want to be unkind or criticise anyone (don't always succeed as some people will think you're are being critical when you do not intend to) but I would fear Rob and his ilk.

I do think this thread has been great LG and would thank everyone on the thread as it has certainly added to my enjoyment of TA. It has been interesting to see just how much social media and the ordinary media have added to the insight we could have. I love it when someone picks up on something I have missed

marlot I am so impressed! I don't think I could miss the family court but I'm sure you will be enjoying your break and can catch up with us all when you are back. I think that listening to them continuously sometimes gives you a different view (that's my excuse if I end up hearing the omnibus) Have a lovely time.

The trouble with Rob's tear-jerking antics is that sometimes his emotions are genuine but of course even if they are you can't trust him an inch. He sounds like the sort who would kill both boys and then himself just to spite Helen.

But look what happened the last time Pat showed Rob a bit of kindness....He kidnapped Henry!

Also, Helen was nearby. Would she really have handed Jack over so that Rob could see him?

Rob and Urula don't understand the milk of human kindness. I don't care that Bruce is probably the reason for their horrible characters. They're both plain nasty.

Pat must have felt a great deal of satisfaction from being in a position to be able to slam the door on her daughter's rapist.

About time he suffered some pain.

Lazygirl not going soft on him just a human reaction to a.father wanting to see his only son. (supposedly). A bit of human kindness doesn't go amiss, make him see.what a rat he has been perhaps, perhaps not. Just felt a wee bit sorry for.him , I am a softy I suppose. Pat was getting back at him but sometimes showing a bit of forgiveness is a powerful weapon.

Surely he doesn't stand a cat's hope in he'll of getting those boys.

We're going away for four days tomorrow so rather than sneak out to the car a 7pm or try and catch the afternoon repeat, I'm going to have a complete break and catch up Sunday evening.

We don't have a smartphone so I won't be able to read the threads.

Archers detox.

A distraction from RL anyway.

When you realise the time scale they are working to Graces perhaps we are too critical at times - but comment and criticism is all part of the fun, and this thread has been almost as good, perhaps better, than TA itself?

Mmm. Not sure how I would receive a man I have just discovered was raping my daughter on a regular basis and destroying her as a person LD. On a farm I think he is lucky it was not greeted with a shot-gun (not that I would approve, of course)

After Adam's secret was revealed in court... what next?

I hope I am not repeating any of these!

How Helen's trial was written

LD You're not going soft on Rob are you? This is the way he operates.........

merlotgran, Henry's 'wishes and feelings ' will be considered by the social workers/cafcass person and included in their reports for the Judge. Just because a 6 year old may express a wish to stay with daddy, doesn't mean the Judge will allow that.

If my grandson was the result of my daughter being (repeatedly) raped by his father, I'm not sure I'd be willing to bring the child to the door. The Judge will decide about contact between Jack and Rob as well as deciding where they will live. It would be very unusual to separate small brothers like these. I hope they go to Bridge Farm where their mum can be supported by her parents.

I wonder if Rob will remain in the village and what kind of relationship he'll be allowed to have with the boys.

So many questions. Will Helen and Jess make complaints about rape and cc?
When will Stefan return/be found to tell the tale of the flood and why haven't either Jennifer or David remembered this and shouted it loudly around the village (or told Susan, thus ensuring it goes around the village)

Perhaps Pat could have been more generous and brought Giddyjack to the door. He hasn't seen his baby yet. Must be hard, even though he is a rat. I am also amazed Henry can stay with him after everything.

I'm worried Henry will call his brother Jack and Rob will turn on him.

I have a horrible feeling Henry will opt to stay with Rob because he hasn't had a chance to get used to Helen being home.

Otherwise, what's the point in Charlotte?

Go home, Ursula. Brucie needs you!!

I wonder how quickly Henry will learn the trick of referring to his brother by whichever name suits the premises?

Good on Pat for slamming the door in his face.