What a wonderful, heart-wrenching episode. The acting was superb, and the storyline sensitively handled. The children's performances were excellent too, even the baby was good! Amongst the adults, it's difficult to pick put anyone for special mention, but Alf, Thomas and Miss Lane, I felt, were exceptional. The tenderness, vulnerability and fear which Julia displayed as she nursed her 'Little Man' was remarkable, and surely every mother watching felt for her. I wanted to go and hug her.
The episode was cleverly planned - the blue skies, golden harvest and happiness of the opening scene contrasted perfectly with the sad, sombre developments. Some producers might have used thunder and and black skies to reflect the mood, but by filling our screens with light, the shock of the sick children was made more terrible.
This was an episode to remember - and it brought home how common disease and death were, especially amongst children, in times gone by. Well done, and thank you.