The company is undergoing substantial modernisation: compulsory redundancy of 'senior' staff, offices repainted in lilac, and new computer systems. None of which are welcomed by Bernard or Trevor.

After reading 'The Ecstasy of Sex', Bernard is looking forward to romancing his wife with an expensive meal and night out. Purvis, on the other hand, has tendered his resignation in order to follow his dream - and become a salesman of Bendy Wendy and Gary dolls.