The Brothers: Cross Currents (BBC-1 24 Oct 1976)

In Cross Currents Jennifer and Edward are barely on speaking terms, things have gotten so bad that Ted has decided to move out for a few days just to get some thinking space. Meanwhile Jane is having a real time of it with the plans for the new airstrip, local residents are up in arms and make it plain they will do everything they can to get it stopped. Jane is surprised when Merroney comes up with an idea to see that it is passed.

An episode that belongs to Jennifer really, she is coming across as very bitter and angry in this season, she clearly detests Jane and at the end of this episode tells Mary Hammond that she believes two of her sons are having some kind of menage a trois with her (David, who is going through something of a stagnant phase with the company would definitely like to get to know Jane better). She is also convinced that Ted has the hots for April Winter, which it would be fair to say seems to be true. Ted has definitely had some kind of ephinany after his three weeks away at the business and personal development course.

Also good to see, for the first time in several series, some emphasis on what Hammond Transport actually does with Bill having to deal with some recalcitrant driving who are upset at the way things are going.

production details
UK / BBC One / 1×60 minute episode / Broadcast 24 October 1976

Writer: Elaine Morgan / Production Design: Sally Williams / Director: Mary Ridge

The Brothers Season Seven Episode Eight

main cast
JEAN ANDERSON as Mary Hammond
RICHARD EASTON as Brian Hammond
ROBIN CHADWICK as David Hammond
JENNIFER WILSON as Jennifer Hammond
DEREK BENFIELD as Bill Riley
KATE O’MARA as Jane Maxwell
COLIN BAKER as Paul Merroney
MARGARET ASHCROFT as Gwen Riley
LIZA GODDARD as April Merroney

guest cast
NORAH FULTON as Mrs Merroney
CHRISTINE ABSALOM as Judy Vickery
ROBERT BLYTHE as Marsh
MITZI ROGERS as Mrs Preston