Meet fadi

Welcome everybody. I’m Fadi, good to meet you. Yeah, you’re right. Fadi isn’t a typical English name. That’s
because my family is from Lebanon. I was born there too, but I’ve lived in London ever since I was a kid. Now
I think of myself as being both, Lebanese and English. Mostly, I’m a Londoner. London is full of people from
all over the world so I fit in perfectly here.

What do I do? Well, ideally, I mean, if the world was perfect, I wouldn’t do very much at all. Play football…
watch TV… play video games… hang out with my friends. But unfortunately the world isn’t perfect so I have
to work. I work for our family business. We’re suppliers to restaurants, so we import foods from different parts
of the world, the Mediterranean and Middle East mostly, and then sell them on to restaurants. It’s ok, not my
ideal job but, well it’s the family business so I have to be part of it really.

I get to travel quite a bit for my job too, which is ok. I wouldn’t like to be sitting in an office all day.

I love London like I said, there’s loads going on, people from everywhere, even if the weather here is lousy. I’m
24 now. My mother keeps on asking me when I’m going to get married. But it’s not going to happen for a few
years yet. I think 24 is way too young to marry and besides, there are too many beautiful girls in this city, even
if I’m not going out with any of them at the moment.

What else, er… not much really. I like nice clothes, night clubs, Arsenal football club, oh and hanging out with
the people at Tony’s Café.

 Meet hary

Hi all, I'm Harry. Pleased to meet you.

I'm from London, nowhere else, just London. It's strange, I've lived here all my life and now most of my friends
are people who originally come from somewhere else. You don't often meet original Londoners any more. But
that's not a problem for me though, I love it. The crowd I hang out with at Tony's for example, they're from all
over the world really. But once you're in London, then you're a Londoner as far as I'm concerned.

Anyway, enough of that - what about me?

Well, I'm 23 years old. My friend Olivia keeps on telling me I'm still only a kid but sometimes I feel old, I tell
you. Too much work! I quite like my job - I'm an IT systems consultant but sometimes I think I'd like to change.
I'm not sure what else I could do though and IT is a good field to be in, even if you have to constantly keep up
with all the changes. Being a consultant means that I'm always working on different projects which is good
because it never gets boring but it also means that I never really know if I'm going to have any work when the
project I'm working on finishes. So that's a bit of a downside.
 
Everyone thinks that I must have lots of money because I work with computers but unfortunately, that's not
true. I'm just a technician really; I'm not like my friend Johnny, now he makes tons of money.

What else? Well, when I'm not working or spending too much time in Tony's café, I like to go to the gym. I try
to work out there at least three times a week - keep myself in trim. Sometimes, I have a game of football with
the boys too. I'm not a great player but I enjoy it. I ride my bike around London too. Partly because it helps me
keep in shape, partly because it's more ecologically friendly and just because it's easier no worries about traffic
jams or parking. I like music a lot hip hop and RnB mostly but I'll listen to anything really. And that's about it.

See you soon.

Meet johny

Hi, my name’s Johnny Chan from Hong Kong, very pleased to meet you. 

I came to Britain four years ago. I was going to study here, but I didn’t get very far with my studies. There were
too many other things to do and the chance to make lots of money. I was lucky, I got offered a job with a big
Chinese venture capital company here in London, in the bit they call ‘the city’. It’s the financial centre of
Britain and Europe and possibly one of the most important in the world right now.

I work really hard, sometimes seven days a week from early in the morning till late at night and sometimes all
night if I have to be on the phone to China, but I love it. The money is great obviously and I love the high
pressure of the job, it keeps me going. 

So, I work hard but I play hard too. When I’m not working I’m a sports fanatic, any kinds of sports, anything
that involves hitting or kicking a ball, anything that involves running or throwing. Naturally, I’m really excited
about the Olympics in Beijing. I hope to be able to get back to China to see some of the games, mostly though
its football I like. 

I like to play football with my friends Fadi and Harry here and I like to watch games too. My favourite team is
Manchester City, not a London team at all, but they have Sun Jihai in their team and he’s from China.  

Britain’s okay, but I plan to return to China as soon as I’m rich, in three years time, that’s what I always tell
everyone.

Meet magda

Hello everybody -my name’s Magda. Magda Gozinski - that’s quite difficult to pronounce - so everyone just
calls me Magda.

I’m from Poland but I’ve been living in London for two years now. I’m trying to improve my English so I
apologise if I make mistakes sometimes.
or if I don’t understand you -

I’m here studying architecture - I’m doing a post graduate degree. I want to become an architect and design
buildings but it’s quite difficult. I hope I’ll get a job when I finish my studies so then I can stay in the UK or
perhaps go somewhere else. I’d like to travel a lot but I haven’t really been anywhere yet, apart from Poland and
Britain. Johnny tells me that I should go to China - perhaps I will.

London is great - so many people from all over the world. But it’s very expensive and money’s a problem for
me - I’m a poor student - a lot of people here in London only seem to be interested in money. I don’t like that
attitude.I think there are more important things in life than money. Friendship for example.

Sometimes I miss my family in Poland - but I’m happy here I’ve got a great bunch of friends here. Sarah is my
best friend. She has lots of the same interests as me and we often visit museums or go to shows together. Olivia
is a good friend as well. She’ll always help when you’ve got a problem. Ha - the boys are funny too -

We always meet up in Tony’s cafe. It’s not far from where I live so it’s a good place to hang out. The weather
in England isn’t great - it rains a lot, so it’s good to have a place inside where we can all be together. Tony
makes good coffee too.
Meet magda

Hi everybody - welcome to London. My name's Olivia, pleased to meet you.

My surname is Barbieri, which is an Italian name because my grandparents were from Italy, but I'm English.
I've always lived in London because I really like it here. It's an expensive city, but it has lots to offer. I don't
think I'd like to live anywhere else.

I'm 28, which means I'm a little bit older than most of my friends and sometimes I think they see me as their
mum or aunt or older sister, especially because a lot of my friends are a long way from their families. They're
always asking me to help them out with their problems but I don't mind it at all. In fact, I quite like it.

I work in a small shop. It doesn't sound like a very exciting job, but I love it. I own the shop and we sell shoes,
but they're not ordinary shoes. They're all special shoes, hand-made by craftsmen. We have lots of different
kinds of shoes, some very posh ones for parties and some everyday shoes. But they're all unusual; funky I call
them. It's not easy to get shoes like this so some of them are quite expensive.

Business is good at the moment but sometimes I get bored of my job and dream about doing something else, but
I'm not sure what else I'd like to do. I really want to start up a website so I can sell our shoes online all over the
world and so I can spend less time in my shop.

What else can I tell you? Oh well, in my free time I like reading and going to the cinema, going for walks in the
park, oh, and I hate sports of any kind.

I really like my life here. I guess because I've got so many good friends. We all hang out together in Tony's
cafe, which is right next door to my shop, fortunately, and ugh, by the way, I have a small nephew called Joe.
He's five and he's a bit of a terror. I often look after him when my sister is busy - so watch out for him.

Meet magda

Hello everybody I’m Sarah Zhang.

As you might guess, I’m not English, I’m from China. There are a lot of Chinese people in London now. Some
of them have been here for a long time and some of them are quite new here, so I don’t feel lonely.

I always have someone I can speak Chinese to and there are some great restaurants here so I don’t have to eat
English food all the time. I have some Chinese friends here but I also have lots of other friends, some from
Britain and some from other places as well. The crowd in Tony’s café. London is full of people from all over
the world.  

So, more about me. I’m 26 and I first came to Britain 4 years ago. I’m from Shanghai originally. I studied fine
art in Shanghai and now I’ve come to London to carry on my studies. It’s a great place to study. There are lots
of students here. And some good universities. 

Sometimes, I get a bit lonely and I miss my family and friends in China. And London can seem unfriendly at
first. It’s difficult to find a nice place to live here and it’s very expensive. But there are lots of great galleries
and museums here with classic and contemporary art so that means lots of opportunities for work.

I like it a lot in Europe. Now, I feel quite divided between the European way of life and the Chinese one.
When I’m not studying, well, I like to visit museums and galleries, you already guessed that, oh, and I like
shopping. Shopping is great here. Some really interesting fashion; and great designers. I met my friend Olivia
when I went to buy some shoes at her shop next door to the café. I also write pieces for a website, dimsum.co.uk
about Chinese life in the UK. Oh, and I like to hang out with my friends at Tony’s.

Bcsw-s01-e01

Johnny: Hello! Hello? Excuse me! Excuse me?

Olivia: Just sit down anywhere – they don’t have waiters in here!
Johnny: Oh, ok, is it ok if I sit here?
Olivia: Sure...but you’ll need to go to the counter if you want anything...
Johnny: Actually, I’m not really here to eat, or anything. I’m supposed to be meeting someone.
Olivia: Well, wait here long enough, most of London will come in...
Johnny: Sorry?
Olivia: Just joking.
Sarah: Excuse me, is anybody sitting here?
Olivia: I can’t see anyone!
Sarah: Sorry?
Olivia: Just joking. Go ahead, sit down.
Sarah: Thanks.
Olivia: You might be waiting a while if you sit here.
Sarah: Sorry?
Olivia: There are no waiters here – people usually just go up to the counter and order whatever they want.
Sarah: Oh...well...I’m just supposed to be meeting someone here actually...
Olivia: Not him, by any chance?
Sarah: Who?
Olivia: This guy here!
Johnny: Hello!
Sarah: Oh. No...
Johnny: No...I am waiting to meet someone...but not you! Where are you from, anyway?
Sarah: Well, I live in London now, but I’m originally from Shanghai.
Johnny: Thought so! I’m from Hong Kong.
Olivia: Sorry to interrupt..but who are you both waiting for?
Johnny: I’m waiting for my friend Harry...
Sarah: ...and I’m waiting for my friend Magda...
Olivia: How interesting!
Johnny: Erm...why’s that interesting?
Olivia: Because Harry and Magda are both friends of mine as well, and right now I’m waiting for both of them too...and
here they are!
All: Hello
Olivia: Let’s make this easier - I’m Olivia!
Johnny: I’m Johnny. I’m a friend of...
Harry: ...mine. He’s a friend of mine. I’m Harry.
Sarah: Ok! I’m Sarah, and I’m a friend of...
Magda: ...mine! I’m Magda. Nice to meet you!
Olivia: This is complicated, isn’t it? Shall I get some tea? I think we’ll need a big pot, this might take some time. So, how
do we all know each other..?

Bcsw-s01-e10

Olivia: How’s the leg Johnny?

Johnny: A bit better thanks...I’ve got the plaster off it now, but I still need the crutch.
Olivia: Good to hear...
Johnny: Your nephew young Joe didn’t help...he’s not here today is he? I need to recover!
Olivia: No, don’t worry...I’m not looking after him today. He’s with my sister.
Harry: Hello there!
Olivia: Hi Harry!
Johnny: Hi there workmate!
Olivia: How’s it going, Harry?
Harry: Erm...not bad...
Olivia: You don’t sound so sure...
Harry: No, really, everything’s fine...
Johnny: Everything ok at work? I don’t get to see you much...
Harry: Well, I’m always busy, you know...
Johnny: Oh yeah, I know...busy busy busy. That’s me, too! Got to go right now...just to the doctor’s though, he’s having
another look at my leg, making sure it’s ok...
Olivia: Bye then Johnny! Hope it goes well!
Johnny: Me too! Whoops.......Magda! Watch out!
Magda: Oh, sorry Johnny!
Johnny: Owwww!
All: Oh no!
Magda: Oh! I stepped on your toe!
Johnny: Don’t worry...never mind...nothing serious...I’ll get better! Good job I’m going to the doctor’s right now! Bye!
Magda: Oh no! I feel so bad!
Harry: Don’t worry about it, he’s not really that bad! He hasn’t broken any bones or anything.
Olivia: He’s just a bit of an actor, that’s all...
Harry: Tell me about it...he’s terrible at work! I try and avoid him...
Olivia: Oh no! Why?
Harry: He just talks about his work all the time, about how important he is, and how rich he’s going to be...it gets
boring...
Olivia: But are you getting on with him ok, otherwise?
Harry: Yeah, I guess so...they really make me work hard for my money though...
Olivia: Do you think you’ll stay with that job?
Harry: For a bit, I guess. I’ll have to see how it goes, long term...
Magda: Isn’t anyone going to ask about my interview?!
Olivia: Oh yes...sorry! Of course..so, how did it go?
Magda: I’m not sure...ok I think...it’s difficult to say...
Harry: What questions did they ask you?
Magda: The usual ones...why I want this job, what I can bring to their company...
Olivia: Did you answer all the questions?
Magda: Sure...yes.
Harry: Did you ask a question?
Magda: Yes...I only got a chance to ask one, so I asked them how far I’d be free to follow my own projects as part of the
job.
Olivia: Good question.
Harry: What did you wear?
Magda: A suit, like Johnny told me to! Black jacket, trousers...
Olivia: Did you arrive on time?
Magda: I was perfectly punctual!
Harry: You’ll be a shoo-in!
Magda: Sorry? A what?
Harry: A shoo-in! It means you’re certain to get the job!
Magda: Well, I hope so.......Oh no! It’s them...they’ll be calling to tell me if I got the job or not....

Bcsw-s01-e11

Magda: (talking into phone) So…ok…hmm...yeah! That’s great news!

Olivia: So? Did you get the job?
Magda: Yes!!!
All: Hooray!! Fantastic! Well done!!
Magda: But...
Harry: There’s always a ‘but’...
Magda: It’s only on a trial basis...just for a month.
Harry: Ok, that’s pretty normal actually. Most companies do that.
Olivia: But they are paying you, yes?
Magda: Oh yes, the salary isn’t bad. It’s not an internship.
Harry: I did internships for ages...had to work for a month to get experience – no pay! – and then I never got offered the
real job at the end. Like now! I’m doing this work for Johnny’s company – they want me to work at weekends too –
Saturdays and Sundays – with no extra money!
Olivia: That’s terrible!
Harry: I don’t know what to do...I want to say ‘no’, but I’m afraid I’ll lose the job...
Olivia: You’ll have to think carefully about it!
Magda: Or you’ll be trying to do an internship again!!! Only joking! It can be important to do an internship if you want to
get experience – things to put on your CV...
Harry: Yeah, I guess you’re right, but I’m past that stage...I’ve got lots of experience now.
Magda: I’m really worried though, about my first day, really nervous. I might be terrible!
Olivia: Don’t worry Magda, you’ll be great. Show them how good you are in the first month and they’ll be offering you
more money by the second month!
Magda: Let’s hope so!
Harry: What are you going to be doing exactly?
Magda: Well, it’s a lot of admin work..but I do get a chance to work with the senior partners on some designs.
Harry: Great...What is it you do again?
Olivia: Harry! How come you always forget this stuff?
Magda: Architecture! I’m an architect! I design buildings!
Harry: Oh yeah, right, of course...
Sarah: She’s a good one too, Harry – I’ve seen some of her drawings. I keep on telling her that she should go to China –
there are lots of opportunities there at the moment.
Magda: Maybe, one day. That’d be really interesting...How are you, Sarah?
Sarah: OK...
Harry: How’s the new flat?
Sarah: That’s the problem...
Olivia: Oh no! You’ve only just moved in!
Magda: I thought the flat was great...
Sarah: The flat is nice, but the problem is the landlord...
Olivia: Isn’t that Fadi’s cousin?
Sarah: Yes, exactly...but he’s really intrusive.
Magda: Intrusive?
Sarah: He comes round all the time, wants to know everything about me. I think that if I pay rent, that’s it, I shouldn’t
have to tell him anything else.
Olivia: I see...that’s not on, is it? Have you mentioned it to Fadi?
Sarah: No, I don’t know how to. He was so kind helping me get the place. I don’t want to seem rude.
Olivia: Would you like me to have a word with him?
Sarah: Could you? That’d be really great. I’d really appreciate it.
Olivia: I’ll say something the next time I see him! Promise!

Bcsw-s01-e12

 Olivia: Hi Magda! How was your first day?

 Magda: Fantastic!
 Olivia: Really!? I’m amazed...
 Sarah: Yeah, you were so worried about your new job...
 Magda: Well, I had some good news...
 Olivia: Yeah? What?
 All: Hi Johnny!
 Johnny: Hi! I’ve got some good news...
 Sarah: Makes two of you then!
 Johnny: At least I think it’s good news...I’m not really sure...
 Olivia: Tell us!
 Magda: Can’t I tell you my good news first?
 Sarah: Wow, this is getting complicated...and I’m afraid I’ve only got some bad news...
 Magda: Oh no...what a shame! What’s the problem?
 Olivia: Yeah, go on, bad news first, then the good news will cheer us up!
 Sarah: OK, well, I had a row with my landlord, finally! And I’m moving out...
 Magda: Oh no!
 Sarah: Oh yes! So, I need a new flat...
 Olivia: Again!!!
 Magda: Oh dear...
 Olivia: What a shame. I hoped it was going to work out...
 Sarah: Yeah, but I didn’t get on with the landlord.
 Magda: Have you told Fadi yet?
 Sarah: No...I’m worried what he might think. The landlord is his cousin, after all...
 Olivia: Well, let’s just wait until he comes in. I was going to tell him you weren’t happy – now I’ll tell him
you’re leaving!
 Magda: Is it good news time yet?
 Sarah: Yes! Go on! What’s your good news?
 Magda: I’ve been offered a job!
 Johnny: Me too!
 Olivia: Hang on! Wait a minute! You’ve already got a job, haven’t you Magda?
 Sarah: And you have too, Johnny, haven’t you? You talk about it all the time...
 Magda/Johnny: But...
 Magda: Go on...!
 Johnny: No, you first, please...
 Magda: I’ve been offered a permanent job, with the same company! I’ll be a proper architect!
 Olivia: Wow! That’s fantastic!
 Magda: But...
 Olivia: There’s always a ‘but’...
 Magda: I have to get a distinction in my master’s degree...
 Sarah: Phew...that’s not easy...
 Magda: No, but I’m doing well...
 Olivia: Fingers crossed then...
 Sarah: Let’s hope!
 Johnny: That’s amazing – I’ve got the same news!
 Olivia: What? You’re going to be an architect?
 Johnny: No!
 Sarah: You’re doing a master’s degree?
 Johnny: No!
 Magda: What then?
 Johnny: A job...I’ve been offered a new job!
 Olivia: Yes, you said...
 Johnny: And there’s a ‘but’...
 Olivia: I told you there was always a ‘but’...
 Johnny: It’s not in London...
 Olivia: You’d have to leave...
 Johnny: Yeah...
 Olivia: Well, where is it? New York?
 Johnny: No...
 Magda: Paris? Berlin? Where?
 Johnny: It’s back in China.
 Sarah: Oh...Beijing? Shanghai?
 Johnny: No, it’s in Chongqing.
 Olivia: Where?
 Johnny: Chongqing!
 Magda:: Where’s that?
 Sarah: Southwest China. It’s a really interesting place...growing really quickly...
 Johnny: Yeah, it’s a great opportunity...
 Olivia: But?
 Johnny: But I love it here so much. I’m not sure I want to go back to China yet – I’d miss all my friends...
 Olivia: You’ll have to choose!
 Sarah: It’s big decision time! Oh no...here comes Fadi....and Harry.
 All: Hi Fadi! Hi Harry!
 Fadi: How’s it going everyone?
 Olivia: Don’t ask...
 Magda: I’ve been offered a new job, a really good job – if I get a good degree!
 Johnny: I’ve been offered a new job, a really good job – but I have to go back to China!
 Harry: Wow! Busy day everyone’s having...I’ve got some news too...
 Olivia: Oh no...
 Harry: Oh yes – I’ve been sacked!
 Magda: “Sacked”?
 Harry: Yes – I’ve lost my job, been made redundant, unemployed, no longer working!
 Magda: Oh no!
 Harry: Don’t worry – I don’t care. I hated that job anyway. I’ll soon find another job. A man with my skills
and abilities is always in demand!
 Johnny: Somebody from my company sacked you? Why?
 Harry: I told them I wasn’t going to work at the weekend – Saturdays and Sundays. If I worked on Saturday
and Sunday, when could I play football!? So I said ‘no’, and they said ‘goodbye’...
 Magda:: What will you do now?
 Harry: I have absolutely no idea! The future is an open book...
 Sarah: Very poetic!
 Fadi: Well Sarah, at least you’re ok...with your new flat and everything...
 Sarah: Oh...er...well...
 Olivia: Actually, I wanted to talk to you about that...cousin
 Fadi: You wanted to talk to me?
 Olivia: (whispering) Yeah, well, you see, Sarah’s a bit embarrassed...
 Fadi: (whispering) What’s up?
 Olivia: She wants to leave the new flat...she doesn’t get on well with the landlord...
 Fadi: My cousin.
 Olivia: Yes, your cousin.
 Fadi: I’m not surprised!
 Olivia: Eh?
 Fadi: I said I’m not surprised! My cousin’s horrible! I can’t stand him!
 Olivia: (laughs) Oh that’s a relief...
 Fadi: Sarah – I’m sorry if I got you involved with my cousin...I thought you were desperate for a place to
live...I know my cousin’s horrible!
 Sarah: Oh, never mind Fadi – thanks for trying to help anyway...Now I need a new place to live though...
 Magda:: If I get this job, I’ll have more money – we could get a place together...
 Sarah: That’d be great...
 Johnny: If I take the job in China, I’ll have to leave my flat...
 Sarah: And we could move in...
 Olivia: What a lot of ‘if’s’...
 Sarah: It’s exciting...
 Magda:: But also worrying...
 Johnny: And confusing...
 Harry: And that’s not all...
 Fadi: What?
 Harry: I’ve just been speaking to the owner of the café...
 Olivia: And?
 Harry: They’re closing down – next week!
 All: What!!?? Oh…that’s terrible…no....what are we all going to do??

Bcsw-s01-e02

Harry:  So how are things going, mate?

Johnny:  Good. Things are good. I’m really enjoying my job... lots of work, but I’ll be rich in three years!
Harry:  You work all the time. I don’t know how you manage it. You should take a break some time, come and play
football with me!
Johnny:  Too busy, mate, too busy. Venture capital – it’s so exciting right now.  All the opportunities opening up in
China. And I’m here to make the most of it!  You should think about changing your job, Harry – get a piece of the action!
Harry:  You’re right... I'm always thinking about changing jobs... but I only know about computers, nothing else.
Johnny:  There are lots of computer experts around. You need to specialise!
Harry:  Perhaps you’re right, but I really like my job.
Johnny:  Is the money good?
Harry: Not bad...
Johnny:  But not good?
Harry:  Well, I could find a job that pays more, but I would enjoy it less...
Johnny:  You could come and work for our company!
Harry:  Hmmm... is that an offer?
Johnny:  Yes... I’m serious! Listen, I’ll have a word with the human resources people tomorrow. I know there are some
vacancies at the moment in the IT team... you’d easily get it. Have to go now, see you soon.
Harry:  Yeah, cheers, see you mate.
Olivia:  Hi there! You on your own?
Harry:  Yeah, Johnny’s just gone off to work...
Olivia:  As always. Never stops, that boy.
Harry:  Talking of which, what are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be in the shop?
Olivia:  I’m just taking a break. I’m fed up of standing in that shop selling shoes all day, to tell you the truth.
Harry:  They’re very nice shoes, though. 
Olivia:  All hand made, of course. But, like I say, I don’t want to spend the rest of my life running that shop. 
Harry:  You could sell your shoes on the web.
Olivia:  That’s right! I’ve thought about that already...
Harry:  Have you got anybody to set up a website for you?
Olivia:  No… but I did think... I was wondering... I don’t suppose....
Harry:  What?
Olivia:  ...that you’d be interested?
Harry:  Me? Do your website for you?
Olivia:  Well, yeah... I’d like someone I know... someone I can trust...
Harry:  Well, I guess I could do it, sure... I’ll have to think...
Olivia:  Hi Fadi! How are you doing? Do you know my friend Harry?
Fadi:  No... nice to meet you!
Harry:  Yeah... you too... cheers.
Olivia:  Fadi works in the restaurant business, don’t you Fadi?
Fadi:  Well, sort of, not exactly... we supply food to lots of restaurants, but... I tell you... it’s a nightmare at the moment...
Olivia:  Oh dear. What’s the problem?
Fadi:  Well, there’s just too much work really... can’t keep up. It’s my dad’s business, but he’s getting old now. My uncle
works with us too, but he’s not really interested, so it’s all up to me... I can’t keep track of what’s coming in and going
out...
Harry:  Sounds like you need a better stock management system!
Fadi: Yeah! That’s exactly what I was thinking – how did you know that?
Harry:  That’s my job, innit? I set up computerised stock management systems, all kinds of business IT solutions...
Fadi:  Wow! That’s brilliant! Listen... seriously now... would you be interested in some work?
Harry:  Erm... well... yeah!.... That’s three job offers in the last five minutes! What should I do?

Bcsw-s01-e03

Olivia: Hi there Harry!

Harry: Hello Olivia. How’s it going?
Olivia: Not bad...what are you reading?
Harry: Just checking the jobs page of the local newspaper...
Olivia: More? I thought you already had too many job offers to choose from...
Harry: Well, I have...but there’s no harm in looking, is there?
Olivia: Suppose not.
Harry: You’ve got to know what’s going on...
Magda: Keep ahead of the game!
Harry: Exactly!
Magda: I think the internet is a better place to look for jobs, though...
Harry: You’re probably right, but I spend all day sitting in front of computers. It’s nice to have a change every now and
then. So, Olivia, any more thoughts on what we talked about... your website?
Olivia: Yeah...well...like I said, I’d love you to do it!
Harry: Great – I’d love to do it. Now then, normally, for a job like that, I’d ask about a grand...
Olivia: A grand!
Magda: What’s a “grand”??
Olivia: A thousand pounds.
Magda: Phew! That sounds like a lot...
Olivia: It is!
Harry: It isn’t really...that’s what these things cost now...if you take into account the work I’ll have to put into it, and all
my time...
Olivia: Maybe...
Harry: But anyway, because we’re friends, I’ll do it for say, seven fifty...?
Olivia: Seven hundred and fifty...hmm...well...can you let me think about that? I’ll get back to you in a day or two.
Harry: Sure! No probs!
Fadi: Hi 
All: Hi there!
Fadi: Hang on, I’ll just get a coffee and then I’ll be with you......ok, cheers! So, how’s it going?
All: Good...fine...not bad!
Fadi: Harry – thought any more about that offer?
Harry: Sure, yeah... I’m up for it! I’ll do it, no problems.
Fadi: Great, we really need it. What kind of costs are we looking at?
Harry: Well, the basic package will be fifteen hundred...
Fadi: Hmmmm....
Harry: Then for upgrades and maintenance, well, up to two five...
Fadi: Two thousand five hundred quid?
Magda: Quid?
Olivia: Pounds.
Fadi: You don’t come cheap, do you Harry?
Harry: I’m good at my job.
Fadi: I’ll have to have a word with my uncle...see if I can clear it with him. I’ll get back to you.
All: Hi there!
Olivia: What’s up Sarah?
Sarah: Just had some bad news...
Magda: Oh no! What’s the matter?
Sarah: I’ve just been kicked out of my flat!
All: Oh no!
Magda: Kicked out?
Olivia: She has to leave...find another place to live...

Bcsw-s01-e04

Harry: Well Sarah, here’s the paper...I was looking at jobs...but you’ll need the “accommodation” page!
Olivia: Hmmm, not very sensitive, Harry...
Harry: Have to go now...see you all!
All: Bye!
Olivia: What’s the problem with your flat, then Sarah?
Sarah: Well, I was renting a room in a shared house, but now the landlord has decided to sell the house, so we all have
to move out...
Magda: Oh no...that can be really difficult in London. It’s so expensive here...
Sarah: I know, I’m not sure I’ll be able to afford it...
Olivia: Tell me about it!
Sarah: About what?
Olivia: Sorry...I just mean, I know how expensive life is!
Sarah: Why’s that?
Magda: Olivia wants Harry to set up a website for her, but he’s asked for loads of money!
Fadi: Yeah...me too!
Magda: I think he’s greedy.
Fadi: I’m not sure about that...he’s a professional after all. He’s right to ask a reasonable amount for his work.
Olivia: You’re just like him, I can see...only interested in money!
Magda: Yeah, that’s right...
Fadi: Leave off...I’m not only interested in money. I like football too...
Olivia: I don’t think I can afford it, but I don’t know how to say “no” without offending him now.
Sarah: Do you think he’ll be offended?
Olivia: Perhaps...
Fadi: I shouldn’t worry. He’s not a very sensitive guy, is he?
Olivia: No! I like him, though...
Fadi: Oh yeah? 
Olivia: Not in that way...he’s just a friend...
Fadi: “Just a friend”, eh?
Olivia: Are you jealous?
Fadi: Get out of here! Course I’m not. I’ve got lots of girlfriends...
Magda: And they only ever last for two weeks!
Fadi: I like to keep them keen!
Sarah: Oh yeah, sure...
Fadi: Listen, Olivia, if it makes it easier for you, I think I’m going to take Harry up on his offer. I’ll get him to do some
work for me, then it won’t matter if you turn him down.
Sarah: I do some work for a website, Olivia. It’s called DimSum.co.uk – it’s for the Chinese community in Britain. I could
find out who does their website – they might be cheaper.
Olivia: Could you do that for me? I’d be really grateful.
Sarah: Sure, no problem.
Olivia: And we’ll try and help you find a flat!
Sarah: Thanks!
Magda: How long have you got before you have to move out?
Sarah: Only a month.
Magda: That’s not long.
Fadi: I’ll ask around, see if anyone I know has a room free in their house...
Magda: I’ll do the same thing...
Olivia: Me too!
Magda: Ok everyone...we have a mission!
Fadi: Find Sarah a place to live!
Olivia: And tell Harry he’s greedy!
Sarah: I think this might be difficult....
Magda: What? Finding you a flat, or upsetting Harry?
Sarah: Both!
Bcsw-s01-e05

Johnny: Hi
Harry: Hi
Harry: Could we get two cappuccinos please?
Tony: Ok...sit down and I’ll bring them over to you.
Harry: Cheers...
Johnny: So, listen, I had a word with the IT department about that job that I’d mentioned, and they’d like you to come in
for a chat sometime...
Harry: A “chat”?
Johnny: Well, yeah, you know, not really a formal interview, just...well...like, a chat, so they can get to know you, and
see what you’re like, and stuff...
Harry: But there’s no real job on offer...
Johnny: Well, no, perhaps not as yet, not exactly...
Harry: Hmmm, I’m not sure.
Johnny: Go on! What have you got to lose?
Harry: I guess you’re right...
Johnny: And it’s a good company to work for...lots of prospects...great bonuses! And you get to work with me!
Harry: OK, when can I come in?
Olivia: Hi 
All: Hi!
Johnny: Tomorrow I guess...
Olivia: Tomorrow what? What are you two planning in secret?
Harry: Olivia, you are so nosey! You always have to know everything about everyone else....
Olivia: Just natural curiosity...
Johnny: Harry’s coming to work with me!
Olivia: That’s great!
Harry: Hang on, hang on...it’s not definite yet...
Olivia: I’m sure you’ll get the job! Well done!
Harry: Slow down, will you!
Olivia: That means you’ll be too busy to do my website for me...
Harry: I’m sure I can squeeze you in...
Olivia: I wouldn’t want to overwork you!
Harry: We’ll see, eh?
Olivia: OK, but don’t lose any sleep over it.
All: Hi Sarah!
Johnny: How’s the flat-hunting going?
Sarah: Oooooppphhhh....I’m exhausted. I’ve been going round the city all day, looking at flats.
Olivia: And no success?
Sarah: No success at all.
Harry: What’s the problem?
Sarah: They’re all too small, or too dark, or too far away, or too expensive, or there are weird flatmates...
Harry: You’ll have to compromise at some point....
Sarah: Yeah, I guess so, but I don’t want to live in a complete dump, and it seems that I can’t afford much more.
Fadi: Hello all!
All: Hi Fadi!
Harry: How’s it going mate?
Fadi: I’m fine here, but why are you lot all looking so glum?
Olivia: Sarah still can’t find a place to live.
Harry: Olivia’s fed up because I can’t do her website for her!
Johnny: Harry’s not enthusiastic about working with me!
Fadi: Great...Well, I’ll just have to try and solve all your problems, then, won’t I?

Bcsw-s01-e06

Olivia:  Joe!  Can you stop that please!  Can you please come here and sit down!
Magda:  Hello there, Olivia.  Who’s this?
Olivia:  This is Joe – he’s my nephew.
Magda:  Nephew?
Olivia: My sister’s son.
Magda:  Oh!  I see.  He’s lovely!  I love children...
Olivia:  Yeah, they’re great until you have to look after them...
Magda:  You’re looking after him?
Olivia:  Yeah, just for today, fortunately.  My sister can’t get a babysitter.  But Joe comes to my shop quite often.  He
loves it there...unfortunately!
Magda:  Why’s that ‘unfortunate’?
Olivia: Because he’s a pest, that’s why...
Magda:  What’s a ‘pest’?
Olivia:  Somebody or something which makes you angry...
Magda:  No!!  I don’t believe it!  He’s so sweet!  How old is he?
Olivia:  Four, nearly five. 
Fadi:  Whoooaaaa!  Slow down there, little man!  Who’s this?
Olivia:  Fadi, meet Joe.
Magda:  He’s Olivia’s nephew.  And a sweet little pest!
Fadi:  Oh really!  I didn’t know you were Aunt Olivia!
Olivia:  Thank you very much Fadi.  You make me feel old. Listen, have you had a chat with Harry yet?
Fadi:  About work?
Olivia:  Yeah.
Fadi:  No, not yet, but I’m supposed to talk to him today.  He said he’d be in here later.
Olivia:  Listen, though, it’s not true what Harry was saying...
Fadi:  About what?
Olivia:  About me being upset if he can’t do the website for my shop...I don’t mind if he can’t do it!  He wanted far too
much money.  I could never have afforded it.  Now it’s ok, because he thinks he’s turning me down...I don’t have to
offend him by saying ‘no’! A happy result all round!
Fadi:  I see...so I don’t have to bail you out, after all?
Olivia:  No!
Olivia:  Joe, can you stop that please?  Come over here!
Fadi: ...and here he is!
Harry:  Alright mate!  Alright Olivia, Magda...who’s this young man?
Olivia:  My nephew, Joe.
Harry:  Hello Joe!
Harry:  He’s very...erm...what’s the word...energetic?
Olivia:  I just call him “trouble”!
Harry:  So, Fadi, you wanted to talk business?
Fadi:  Yeah, finally...well, I’ve got the all clear from my uncle, so we’re on. 
Harry:  Great. 
Fadi:  But...
Harry:  There’s always a “but”!
Fadi:  You’re going to have to do us a favour and come down on the price, mate...
Harry:  What price did I quote you?
Fadi:  Two thousand five hundred.
Harry:  Well, seeing as you’re a friend, I could come down to two thousand four hundred, but not less than that.
Fadi:  We can offer two thousand.  That’s our top limit.  We don’t have a bigger budget than that.
Harry:  Come on!  You’re joking!
Fadi:  Sorry mate.  It’s two thousand, or nothing.
Harry:  No way.  Can’t be done.  I’ve got to go now...got to go and see Johnny – he’s offered me a real job...bye all!
Fadi:  Oh no, do you think he’s really upset now?
Olivia:  I don’t think “upset” is the word....
Fadi:  We can go a bit higher actually...I was just trying to be a tough negotiator.
Magda:  A bit too tough, I think.
Olivia:  You should never mix work and friendship, anyway.
Magda:  And you probably shouldn’t have a business meeting in a café!
Fadi:  Oh no.  What a mess.  I’d better go.  Hang on..where’s my...where are my....I can’t find my mobile!  Or my keys! 
Has anyone seen them?
Magda:  Let’s look under the seats...they must be here somewhere...
Fadi:  I can’t see anything.
Magda:  No sign.
Olivia:  How strange...hang on a minute, my nephew’s been terribly quiet for the last five minutes...what’s he up
to...Joe!!!

Bcsw-s01-e07

Fadi: Morning Olivia!

Olivia: Hello there!
Fadi: Do you live here?
Olivia: How do you mean?
Fadi: It’s just that every time I come in here, you’re here...it’s like you live here or something...
Olivia: Just taking a break that’s all...
Fadi: You’re always taking a break.
Olivia: Well my shop’s next door, so it’s so easy just to pop in here when things are quiet...
Fadi: Where’s the little thief today?
Olivia: Who? Oh! You mean my little nephew Joe...
Fadi: Exactly...the sweet little pest!
Olivia: He’s with his mum, my sister, today, you’ll be relieved to know.
Fadi: Has Harry been in today?
Olivia: He dropped by the shop before. Said he might pop in here later for a coffee.
Fadi: I think he’s angry with me, perhaps I should avoid him for a bit.
Olivia: Why’s he angry with you?
Fadi: Oh, you know, we argued about money – he was going to do that job for me...
Olivia: Oh yeah, but don’t worry. I’m sure he’s not really angry. And even if he is, he’ll soon forget it. You know what he’s
like!
Fadi: Yeah, I guess so. I’ll just let it drop.
Fadi and Olivia: Hi there!
Sarah and Magda: Hello
Fadi: Cheer up! What’s up with you two?
Sarah: Just the usual...
Olivia: How’s the flat-hunting going Sarah?
Sarah: Still nothing. I really need somewhere to live. I’m getting desperate. I’ll end up homeless if things don’t get better!
Olivia: Oh come on, it’s not that bad...
Sarah: No, of course it’s not, but...it’s so difficult to find a place...
Fadi: I’m glad you showed up – I wanted to talk to you about that...
Sarah: Oh yeah?
Fadi: Yeah - I’ve heard of something that might interest you...
Sarah: Great! What is it?
Fadi: A cousin of mine has a spare room in his house.
Olivia: A cousin of yours...how many people are there in your family...?
Fadi: A lot!
Sarah: That sounds good...can I look at the flat?
Fadi: I’ll call him now.
Olivia: Are you sure about moving in there?
Sarah: Look, I really need a place, urgently, and it’ll be ok, I’m sure...
Olivia: Lots of opportunities to see Fadi....
Sarah: You are such a terrible gossip!
Johnny: There’s Fadi, always stuck to that phone, always working...or perhaps it’s girls!
Olivia: Actually, he’s helping Sarah to find a flat.
Johnny: Oh. Ok. Good. Well hello! What’s up? Why does everyone look so glum here?
Sarah: I’m still trying to find a flat...
Magda: And I finish my degree soon, which means I have to get a job, or go back to Poland.
Johnny: And you want to stay here in London?
Magda: Yeah, but it’s so difficult to get a job.
Olivia: That’s not true, there are lots of jobs around...
Magda: Yes, but I don’t want to just work in a bar or a café or a shop...
Olivia: Oh thanks!
Magda: Sorry! I know you work in a shop, but...that’s different..it’s your own shop, and you sell such special things,
those lovely handmade shoes! But usually, you know, shopwork isn’t great..
Olivia: Tell me about it...
Sarah: But you’ll be a trained architect, won’t you?
Magda: Yes, exactly...but it’s not easy to get work as an architect. There’s a lot of competition here in London
Johnny: You should go to China...lots of opportunities there right now, lots of building.
Fadi: Listen, Sarah, I spoke to my cousin and we can go round to have a look at the flat this afternoon if you like...
Sarah: “We”?
Fadi: Well, I’ll go with you, show you where it is...
Sarah: Erm, ok...Thanks!
Olivia: Told you so!
Magda: Well you might have solved your problem then...but I might not be here much longer!
Bcsw-s01-e08

Magda: So, did you see the flat?

Sarah: Yeah, it’s great...really spacious, really light, good location near a tube station – and not too expensive!
Magda: Sounds perfect. There’s got to be a catch...
Sarah: Well, Fadi’s cousin is the owner...
Magda: That’s not a problem, is it?
Sarah: No...no, I don’t think so...He seems ok...
Magda: You don’t sound sure...
Sarah: No, really, he’s ok. And I really need a new place!
Magda: So you think you’ll move in?
Sarah: Yeah, certainly. Already decided....I move in on Saturday!
Magda: Great! 
Johnny: Hi! Magda and
Sarah: Hi there Johnny! Come and have a seat! How’s it going?
Johnny: Great thanks...just waiting for Harry.
Sarah: You two are hanging out together all the time at the moment...
Johnny: We’re good mates, we get on really well...
Magda: Isn’t Harry working for you as well now?
Johnny: No!!! He’s working with me, not for me...there’s a very big difference!
Magda: What’s that?
Johnny: Well, if he was working ‘for’ me, that means I’d be his boss! But he’s working ‘with’ me, which means that we
work for the same company, that’s all.
Magda: I’m not sure I’d want to be in the same office as you and Harry! What do you do, talk about football all the time?
Johnny: No! We don’t even work in the same office!
Magda: Sorry, only joking...I didn’t mean to be rude, but I think it’s a good idea to keep friends and work separate...
Sarah: Mmm, I agree...
Johnny: You could be right – but we don’t actually work together closely. It’s a big company you know, and Harry works
on the IT side. I’m at the front of the operation – searching out opportunities, winning contracts, clinching deals...
Magda: Alright for you then!
Johnny: I’ll be rich in three years...
Magda: That’s what you always say! There are more important things in life than money, you know!
Sarah: Magda, don’t worry...not all Chinese people are like that. We don’t only care about money!
Johnny: Maybe, but all I mean is, well, I know where I’m going...
Magda: Lucky you...I wish I did...I’m about to finish my degree and haven’t got anything lined up for the future yet...
Sarah: Oh dear...nothing at all?
Magda: Well, I’ve got an interview with a small architect’s practice next week...
Sarah: That’s great news! Well done!
Magda: Yeah...but...I’m really worried about it! I’ve never done a job interview before. Can you give me some advice?
Sarah: Erm...I guess I could help...I’ve done one or two interviews...
Johnny: I’ll tell you all you need to know! Don’t worry. Just listen to me, take my advice and you’ll definitely get the
job!
Magda: Oh, er, well, great...
Johnny: But I can’t tell you now...got to go...
Sarah: Where are you off to in such a hurry?
Johnny: Got an appointment with the boys, haven’t I? Fadi and Harry - we’re all playing football this evening. Bye! 
Sarah: Bye!!

Bcsw-s01-e09

Johnny: Oucchh!! Be careful!

Fadi: All right, all right...I’m trying..you’re heavy!

Harry: He’ll need his crutch...hang on...here you go...ok...can you sit down now?
Johnny: Yeah...I think so.

Olivia: Oh my goodness!! What has happened?

Sarah: Johnny! What have you done to your leg?

Johnny: Sporting injury. Sarah: Oh no! What happened?

Johnny: Well, we were playing football...me and the boys...

Harry/Fadi: We were...that’s right...

Johnny: And I was Sun Jihai, from Manchester City...

Harry: I was Drogba, from Chelsea...

Fadi: And I was David Beckham, of course...

Sarah: So you were playing football, and Johnny got injured?

Harry/Johnny/Fadi: Ermm...

Olivia: Did someone kick him?

Fadi: No... Sarah: Did he fall over?

Harry: Not exactly... Olivia: Well what happened then?

Fadi: It wasn’t really a sporting injury...

Sarah: Go on! Johnny: It was kind of a sporting injury...

Fadi: But we’d actually finished playing football...

Harry: And we decided to go to the pub for a drink...

Fadi: And as we were walking there...

Johnny: I slipped and fell over.

Olivia/Sarah: What???

Olivia: That’s ridiculous!

Sarah: That’s hilarious!

Johnny: Hmmpph. Thank you very much. Here comes Magda, at least she’ll give me some sympathy...hi Magda!

Magda: Hi Johnny...oh dear! What happened to your leg?

Johnny: Long story...don’t really want to talk about it...

Olivia: Really Magda, it’s better if you don’t know.

Sarah: Just don’t ask! We’ll tell you later...don’t worry!

Magda: Erm, ok then...sure..listen, Johnny, I was hoping you were going to give me some interview advice...do you remember? I have an important
interview next week...

Johnny: Oh sure, yeah, I remember. Yes, good idea – I’ll give you some tips. It’ll help take my mind off this injury...So, interviews, well, first thing – make
sure you dress smartly.

Magda: How do you mean “smartly”?

Johnny: Well, wear a suit...a grey one...

Magda: A woman’s suit?

Johnny: Yeah.you know the kind of thing, skirt and a jacket...

Magda: Ok...

Sarah: Erm, I’m not sure that’s always right, though...it depends on the company, surely.

Magda: How do you mean?

Sarah: Well, if you’re going to a company where everybody wears smart suits – like the kind of people Johnny works with – then, yeah, you should wear a
suit. But if the company you’re applying to isn’t the kind of company where everyone wears suits all the time...

Olivia: Where people dress more casually...

Sarah: Exactly...you don’t want to look overdressed, too formal...

Magda: No, I guess not...

Olivia: You just need to look like you fit in!

Johnny: Yeah, that’s good advice. But you have to know first, and that’s the second thing I wanted to say – research the company! Find out as much about
them as you can! Don’t let them ask all the questions...

Sarah: Yes, that’s right – they always give you a chance to ask a question, so ask an intelligent question!

Johnny: Just one or two questions are enough, no more than that.

Sarah: Yeah, to make you sound interested, and look interested...

Johnny: Precisely – look interested. Body language. It’s really important. Make sure you look the interviewers in the eyes....

Sarah: But don’t stare at them!

Magda: No.

Johnny: But show you’re confident, and you know what you’re talking about...

Magda: That’s the problem...I’m not sure that I do!

Johnny: Oh, and don’t be late for the interview! Plan to get there early.

Magda: So much advice, so much to think about...it’s making me more nervous, not less!

Olivia: Oh dear...
Sarah: Don’t worry, that’s the important thing. Relax and enjoy it! What’s that?

Olivia: Oh, I forgot to tell you all – my nephew Joe is here again today...

Fadi: I remember Joe...he’s the little boy who’s always…… exactly!

Olivia: Joe! Slow down please! Joe! Please be careful!

Magda: He’s so sweet...

Johnny: He’s sweet as long as he doesn’t come near my...aaaagghhhh!!!!...my injured leg!!
 

Bcsw-s02-e01

Olivia:  Hey! Good to see you again!

Sarah/Magda:  Hey!  You too!

Harry:  Hello Sarah, hi Magda....

Sarah:  How are you Olivia?  Harry!  Great to see you too...

Olivia:  Fine, fine thanks, all well.  Tony!?  Could we have some coffees over here please?

Tony:  Ok, ok...hold on...I’m rushed off my feet here...

Harry:  He’s always so miserable, so grumpy that guy....

Olivia:  He’s not really, it’s just his way...

Harry:  I’ll believe you then...his coffee’s always good!

Olivia:  So, how are you two getting on?

Magda:  Fine.  It’s great, we’ve got this really nice flat...  

Sarah:  We moved into Harry’s old place...

Olivia:  Yeah, I remember. How’s it going?  No problems?  Still friends?  It’s not always easy sharing a flat...

Sarah/Magda:  No, no problems...

Sarah: …except she leaves the top off the toothpaste tube…

Magda:  ...and she spends too much time watching soap operas on tv!

Sarah:  No, really, we’re getting along fine.

Magda:  The only problem is the rent...

Sarah:  It’s really expensive.  

Magda:  I still need to find that proper job, and that depends on me getting the right degree results...
Olivia:  Yeah, I remember you telling me.  When will you find out?

Magda:  Next week.

Olivia:  Fingers crossed, then!

Magda:  Fingers what?

Olivia:  Crossed.  It’s what we say when we hope for something good to happen.

Magda:  Oh, ok...fingers crossed!

Olivia: Has anybody heard from Johnny?  Sarah?

Sarah:  Just because we’re both Chinese doesn’t mean we keep in touch all the time, you know!  There are a lot of people
in China!  (laughs)

Olivia:  Of course...sorry...I just thought...

Sarah:  He was more of a friend of yours, wasn’t he Harry?

Harry: Yeah, we’re good mates.  I hear from him all the time.

Sarah:  How’s he doing?

Harry:  He’s still in Chongqing with his new job.  He says it’s really interesting, really exciting, but he misses us – and he
wants to come back to London!

Magda:  Fingers crossed!

Sarah:  And how about you Harry? What are you up to?  Are you still job hunting?

Harry:  Yeah, that’s right.  I’m still looking for a new job.  

Magda:  Any luck?

Harry:  I haven’t found anything yet, but I’ve got a few possibilities.  I really liked not working at first, I really enjoyed
the free time, but now – well, I need the money, and also – well, I just get bored if I haven’t got something to do all the
time.

Magda:  Where’s Fadi, Olivia?  I haven’t seen him for ages.  

Olivia:  Why ask me?

Magda:  I thought you’d know...y’know, you’re like, good friends, aren’t you?

Olivia:  Yes, that’s exactly what we are.  Good friends.  Nothing more.

Magda:  I wasn’t suggesting anything! (laughs)

Olivia:  I hope not!  Anyway, he’s away at the moment, gone to visit his family.  He’ll be back next week.

Tony:  Here you are...four coffees...

All:  Thanks Tony!

Olivia:  Cheer up Tony.

Harry:  Yeah...it can only get worse...!

Tony:  It might get worse!  This café might be closing down soon, so then you’ll all have to find somewhere else to go.

All:  Oh no....

Olivia: What’s this all about, Tony?

Tony:  A big property company - they’re building new luxury flats, just behind here.  They want to get rid of these old
buildings.

Magda:  “Get rid of”?

Tony:  Yeah...knock them down.  Demolish them.

All:  Oh no, that’s terrible.

Tony:  It is terrible!  I’ve worked here for ages.  I mean, they’re offering me compensation, but I want to stay here.

Olivia:  Oh no...I’ve just realised...perhaps that means my shop’s affected too...

Tony:  It might be.  Your shop’s only next door...

Olivia:  They can’t knock my shop down!  We must do something...

Bcsw-s02-e02

Olivia: Oh no! I don’t understand how this can happen!

Tony:  Told you so.
Sarah:  Hi Olivia! What’s the problem?
Carlos:  Excuse me...
Olivia:  It’s not just here, not just the café...
Sarah:  What do you mean?
Tony:  Told you so.
Carlos: Excuse me...
Olivia:  It’s true!
Sarah:  What is?
Olivia:  They want to knock down my shop, as well as the café!
Sarah:  Demolish it? Get rid of it completely?
Olivia:  Yes.
Tony:  Told you so.
Sarah:  Oh no!
Olivia:  That’s what I keep saying...
Carlos:  Excuse me!
Tony:  Yes?
Carlos:  Could I have something to eat please, and a cup of tea?
Tony:  Sure, here’s a menu, go and take a seat somewhere...
Sarah:  Oh dear...let’s go and sit down – there’s Harry over there, let’s sit with him.
Harry:  Hello there. Magda’s on her way. I think we need to have a plan...
Olivia:  Yeah, but what can we do?
All:  Hey Magda! Hi! We’re over here! Come and sit down!
Magda:  Hello everyone! What’s the matter? Why does everyone look so sad?
Harry:  The café is going to close...
Sarah:  ...and Olivia’s shop too!
Magda:  Why? Oh - the property company... they’re building new flats... I remember now...
Harry:  That’s right – and they want to demolish this place, and Olivia’s shop next door.
Olivia:  They’re offering us compensation...
Magda:  “Compensation”?
Sarah:  Money...
Olivia:  But it’s not enough. I want to keep my shop...
Sarah:  Yes, and I want to keep this café open... there’s nowhere else where we can all meet.
Carlos:  Excuse me...
All:  Yes?
Carlos:  I couldn’t help overhearing your conversation...
Magda:  Were you listening to us?
Carlos:  No, sorry, I wasn’t listening, I just heard what you were talking about...
Olivia:  Is this the first time you’ve been here?
Carlos:  Well, yes it is, actually...
Harry:  It’ll probably be the last...
Carlos:  Well, yes, I know... that’s what I wanted to say...
Sarah:  What?
Carlos:  I’m afraid I work for the company, the building company.
Olivia:  The company who want to knock down my shop?
Harry:  And our favourite café?
Carlos:  I’m afraid so, yes...
Olivia:  Can you stop them?
Carlos:  Well, no, I’m not sure about that...
Sarah:  What do you do for the company?
Carlos:  Well, that’s the problem, I’m not one of their top managers, or anything like that...
Harry:  That’s a shame.
Carlos:  I’m just a caterer.
Magda:  Caterer?
Carlos:  Yes, I make food for them.
Harry:  Hang on a minute, I don’t understand... you’re the caterer... you make food...
Carlos:  Yes, that’s right. I’m a chef, actually. Or at least that’s what I’d like to be...
Harry:  But you’ve just come in here to get food...
Carlos:  Oh yeah...well, you see, the problem is, I don’t really like the food I have to cook for other people. I prefer to try
new things – so I came in here!
Harry:  Right...
Olivia:  Can you help us?
Carlos:  I’m not sure what I can do... I don’t really want to lose my job...
Sarah:  No... I guess not – but if you work for the building company, you could do some research for us...
Carlos:  Research? How do you mean?
Sarah:  You could find out some information for us...
Carlos:  Erm, well, ok, I mean, if I can... I’d like to help you!
Olivia:  Great! Let’s see what we can do... we can save this place!

Bcsw-s02-e03

Fadi:  Hello Tony! How are you?

Tony:  Alright, I suppose.

Fadi:  Good to hear you sounding so happy! Hey, where is everyone?

Tony:  Everyone who?

Fadi:  You know, the regulars – Olivia, Sarah, Harry, Magda...

Tony:  Don’t know. They’ll probably come in sooner or later. They’re always here.

Fadi:  Hello!

Bindyu:  Oh. Er, hello.

Fadi:  I haven’t seen you in here before.

Bindyu:  No. I haven’t been in here before.

Fadi:  That’s probably why then!

Bindyu:  Er, I don’t understand...

Fadi:  Er, OK, well, never mind then. Listen, can I get you a drink? Would you like a coffee or something?

Bindyu:  Erm, well, that’s very kind of you, but no thanks.

Fadi:  Go on! Have something! My treat! You can’t sit here not eating or drinking anything.

Bindyu:  Actually, I’m waiting for my boyfriend. 

Fadi:  Oh. Late, is he?

Bindyu:  Well, only a little bit...

Fadi:  You can talk to me if he doesn’t show up!

Harry:  Hello there!

Fadi/Bindyu:  Hi!

Harry:  I see you two have already met each other...

Bindyu:  Oh no, not really...

Fadi:  No, I was just being polite, y’know...

Harry:  Sure! Fadi, let me introduce Bindyu.

Fadi:  Nice to meet you.

Bindyu:  Nice to meet you.

Harry:  Bindyu’s my girlfriend.

Fadi:  Oh, er. Great! How long have you been together?

Bindyu:  Oh, not long, only a couple of weeks.

Fadi:  You didn’t tell me you had a new girlfriend, Harry!

Harry:  Well, I haven’t seen you for a few weeks.

Fadi:  No, of course. I was visiting my family... so, what’s happening here?
Harry:  The big news is that they’re trying to close the café!

Fadi:  No!

Harry:  Yes, and Olivia’s shop too.

Fadi:  That’s terrible! Why?

Harry:  A big building company are building new flats behind here. They want to knock down the café and Olivia’s shop
to make more space.

Fadi:  Oh no... what can we do to stop them?

Harry:  Well, we’ve got a few ideas. There’s a guy who comes in here sometimes called Carlos – he works for the
builders. He might help us. And Sarah and Olivia said they had some ideas...

Fadi:  We should start a campaign!

Bindyu:  Good idea! I’m a journalist. I could write something in the local newspaper. 

Harry:  Erm, I thought you wrote for interior design magazines...

Bindyu:  Well, yes, I do, that’s true. But I know somebody who works for the local newspaper. And I want to do more
serious journalism...

Fadi:  Sounds like a great idea! Good luck! I think we should put a banner in the window of the café...

Harry:  A banner?

Fadi:  Yeah, you know – a big sign that says “Save Our Café!” or something like that...

Olivia:  Hello all!

Fadi:  Hey! Good to see you again!

Olivia:  Yeah... you too! How’s it going?

Fadi:  Great – I’m going to put a banner in the café window – “Save Our Café!”

Olivia:  Good idea... can you save my shop too?

Fadi:  Let’s hope so! Bindyu’s going to write an article in the local newspaper...

Olivia:  Bindyu?

Bindyu:  Hello! I’m Bindyu... I’m Harry’s girlfriend... I’m a journalist.

Olivia:  OK, great, nice to meet you!

Carlos:  Hi!

Olivia:  Here’s Carlos! He’s going to help us too!

Carlos:  Well, I don’t know, I’d like to help, but I’m not sure what I can do...

Harry:  You make food for the builders, don’t you?

Carlos:  Yes, I do.

Olivia:  You could put poison in it!

Carlos:  Erm, well, no, I really don’t think...

Olivia:  Only joking!

Carlos:  I was looking for Sarah – is she here?

Olivia:  No, I think she’s coming in with Magda later...why?

Carlos:  Oh, no reason...I just wanted to see her...

Olivia:  I see...oh look, here they are now!

Magda/Sarah:  Hello everyone!

All: Hi!

Sarah:  Hi Carlos! Good to see you again!

Carlos:  Hi!

Sarah: Listen everybody, Magda’s got some good news!

Magda:  Yes – I got my master’s degree with a distinction!

All: Wow! Well done!

Harry:  So you get a well-paid, full-time job with the architects!

Magda:  Yes I do!

Sarah:  Which means we can afford to stay in our expensive flat...

Magda:  There’s only one problem, though...

Olivia:  Oh? What’s that?

Magda:  I’m not really sure how to tell you this...

Olivia:  Go on!

Magda:  Well, the architects I work for...

Harry:  Yeah? Go on!

Magda:  They have a big new project...

Fadi:  Sounds interesting...

Magda:  And they want me to work on it...

Harry:  Even better...

Magda:  Well, not really – you see, the project they want me to work on...

Olivia:  Yes?

Magda:  It’s the new luxury flats... the building here... the people who want to close the café and your shop!

Bcsw-s02-e04

ony: Oi! What are you lot doing? What’s that?

Harry: It’s a banner...
Tony: A what?
Harry: A banner – look! See what it says...
Tony: Save… our... café... Oh, I see. Very good. Do you think it’ll stop them from closing this place?
Olivia: Well, you never know. Every little bit helps.
Tony: Hmm. I’m not sure having that thing stuck to the front of my café will change anything.
Bindyu: Oh yes it will, Tony – be positive! My friend from the local newspaper is coming to take a photograph, and I’m
going to write an article!
Tony: Hmm… Great.
Olivia: Look, Tony – it’s the only thing we can do! We can organise a campaign here, and at the same time Sarah’s doing
some work as well...
Magda: Wow! Look at that banner! Very impressive!
Olivia: Hi Magda!
Magda: Hello everyone!
Olivia: So, go on then, have you decided to take the job?
Magda: Yeah... I have to accept the job... I mean, I really want to... it’s a good job, and good jobs in architecture are
difficult to get... and I need the money! 
Olivia: Sure, I understand...
Magda: Johnny’s old flat, where me and Sarah live... it's great, but it’s so expensive...
Olivia: But you can help us...
Harry: Yeah, if you work for the company who want to knock down Tony’s café and Olivia’s shop, you can do
something!
Magda: Well, I’m not sure... but I’ll see...
Carlos: Hello everyone!
All: Hi Carlos!
Carlos: Is Sarah here today?
Magda: Er, not yet... but she said she’d be here soon...
Carlos: Oh. OK, I’ll wait for her. Is it OK if I sit here?
Magda: Sure...
Olivia: Come and join us!
Magda: So, is it true you’re a chef?
Carlos: Not exactly... I’d like to be a chef, that’s what I want to do, but at the moment I’m a caterer... it’s different...
Magda: What’s a caterer?
Carlos: A caterer makes food for lots of people – I make all the lunches for the people who work on the building site next
door. It’s just sandwiches or soup, or other simple things. It’s quite boring – I like more of a challenge!
Olivia: Here she is!
Sarah: Hello everyone! Hello Carlos!
Carlos: Hi Sarah! Good to see you again…
Olivia: Carlos was just telling us all about his job...
Sarah: You’re a chef, aren’t you?
Carlos: No... but I want to be!
Sarah: Where are you from?
Carlos: I’m from Brazil! Even if no one believes me...
Sarah: Why don’t people think you’re from Brazil?
Carlos: I don’t like football, and I can’t dance...
Sarah: Listen, though – we’ve got an important job to do... we have to save this café, and Olivia’s shop!
Olivia: That’s right...
Carlos: But how?
Harry: I’ve put up the banner...
Bindyu: And I’m writing an article for the local paper...
Sarah: Great... and I’ve found out something very interesting...
Olivia: Oh? What’s that?
Sarah: Well, you know I have a friend who works at the local museum – I love going to museums and art galleries,
Carlos – and she told me something that could be important...
Olivia: Go on...
Sarah: These buildings – the café and your shop – are actually a lot older than many people think...
Olivia: Really?
Sarah: Yes. They’re probably two hundred years old...
Olivia: Tony! Did you hear that?
Tony: What?
Olivia: Sarah has found out that the café and my shop are really very old buildings...
Tony: That’s why I’ve got a problem with the roof, then...
Harry: It means they can’t possibly knock down these buildings!
Sarah: Right. They have historical value.
Tony: It won’t stop them.
Olivia: Oh Tony, you must be more optimistic! Try looking on the positive side!
Tony: I can’t see a “positive side”...
Bindyu: We’ll make a great campaign – it’ll show how people can stop big corporations from doing what they want!
Olivia: Let’s hope so...
All: Yeah...

Bcsw-s02-e05

Harry: “Campaign to save local shops”

Bindyu: Yes, they put my article on the front page of the newspaper...

Harry: “Historic buildings threatened by new development”

Bindyu: I feel like a real journalist now!

Olivia: It must make a change from writing about interior design...

Bindyu: Oh, yes...

Sarah: Let’s have a look...

Harry: Great photo as well – look, you can see my banner on the front of the café!

Sarah: “We have discovered that Tony’s Café and the shoe shop threatened with demolition are actually historic
buildings...” Erm, it was really me and my friend who discovered that, Bindyu, not you...

Bindyu: Yes, you’re right, but what’s important is that now they can’t close the café...!

Olivia: Or my shop....

Bindyu: Exactly!

Sarah: I guess you’re right... “We have found exclusive information which shows that the company building the new flats
– who want to demolish the historic buildings to make more space – know they should not demolish the buildings...” 
Hang on! The building company already know! How did you find that out? 

Bindyu: It’s an exclusive! A scoop!

Sarah: But how did you find that information?

Bindyu: That’s a secret!

Olivia: Go on, tell us!

Bindyu: A good journalist never reveals her sources!

Sarah: Go on, tell us!

Bindyu: Magda told me!

Magda: Hello everyone!

Olivia: Talk of the devil...

Magda: Sorry? Devil?

Olivia: Magda, I’m sorry... it’s just an expression...

Magda: What does it mean?

Olivia: If you’re talking about somebody, and then they appear, you say: “Talk of the devil...”

Magda: Oh. I see. And why were you talking about me?

Olivia: You gave some important information to Bindyu...

Magda: Well, yes, it’s true – I did find out some interesting information. It’s my new job – I work for that company, you
know...

Olivia: Yeah. I was surprised you found that confidential information!

Magda: But I didn’t think you’d write about it, Bindyu! 

Bindyu: Don’t worry – I didn’t mention your name anywhere! This is good journalism...

Magda: I guess so, but... if my employers find out I gave information to you, I could be in trouble! I might lose my job!

Olivia: Oh no...

Bindyu: Don’t worry, Magda. No one will know, and our campaign will be successful...

Magda: OK

Harry: Yeah – you watch – there’s no way they can close the café now!

Olivia: I hope you’re right...

Sarah: Oh!

Magda: Wow!
Harry: Hey!

Olivia: Hi!!

Bindyu: Erm, who’s this?

All: Johnny!!!

Johnny: Hi!!!

Olivia: Welcome back!

Harry: Good to see you, man!

Johnny: Good to see you all again! I’m back!!

Bcsw-s02-e06

All: Johnny! Welcome back! Great to see you again!

Johnny: It’s great to be back!
Olivia: Are you just back for a visit?
Johnny: No! I’m staying!
All: Hooray!
Fadi: Great news!
Johnny: Yeah – a position came up with my company back in London – I applied for it, and, well, here I am!
Olivia: How did it go in China?
Johnny: Great! It was really good to be back. I did really well in my job...
Magda: You always talk about your job!
Johnny: Hey! My career is important to me!
Sarah: Oh, I’m a bit jealous of you... I’d love to go back home to visit my family and friends. I haven’t been back for
ages now...
Johnny: Yeah... you should go...
Olivia: So you’re back for good?
Johnny: For a year, at least... then we’ll see!
Harry: Oh, by the way – this is Bindyu – she’s my girlfriend...
Johnny: Nice to meet you! Well done, Harry...
Bindyu: Nice to meet you, too.
Fadi: We’ll have to start the football team again!
All: Hi Carlos!
Carlos: Oh, hi! Hi, Sarah!
Sarah: Hello!
Harry: Johnny – this is our new Brazilian friend, Carlos...
Johnny: Hi Carlos! You’re Brazilian? You must be good at football... join our team!
Carlos: Erm, well, actually, I’m afraid I’m no good at football...
Johnny: Well, you’ll fit in with our team, then!
Carlos: Eh?
Harry: Never mind, Carlos, it’s not important...
Johnny: So what’s been going on here while I’ve been away?
All: Er, well... hmmm...
Harry: Lots of stuff.
Johnny: Go on! I saw that banner in the window – what’s up? Why do you need to save the café?
Olivia: And my shop...
Harry: Well, did you see that building site just behind the café?
Johnny: Yes, I did actually – it looks like they’re building something big, looks interesting...
Olivia: Hmmm...
Harry: Yeah, luxury flats...
Olivia: The problem being...
Tony: ...they want to knock down the café!
Olivia: And my shop.
Johnny: Oh no...
Sarah: But don’t worry!
Johnny: Why not?
Harry: We got a campaign going – the banner in the window...
Bindyu: And I wrote an article in the local paper!
Sarah: We found they’re historic buildings – so it’s not legal to knock them down.
Johnny: Don’t worry anyhow - I’m rich enough now! I could buy the café, and your shop, Olivia, then do what I want...!
Harry: Seriously?
Johnny: Er, well, no, actually, probably not. Just joking, you know. But I will be rich enough in a couple of years...!
Harry: Yeah, right.
Carlos: Listen guys, that was what I came to talk to you about. At lunch today – I’m a caterer, Johnny, I make lunch for
all the people who work on the building site next door...
Johnny: I see...
Carlos: ...well, there were two of the top managers there.
Olivia: Oh yeah?
Sarah: And?
Carlos: Well, I didn’t listen to them, exactly...
Sarah: Of course not!
Carlos: No, but... I heard what they were saying...
Olivia: And what were they saying?
Carlos: They were saying...
Tony: Oi! Johnny! Are you going to buy something? If you want to have a party go back to your house! I run a business
here, you know...
Johnny: Oh sorry, Tony – yeah, could I have a coffee please?
Tony: That all?
Olivia: Tony! Please...Carlos is going to tell us something really important...
Tony: What?
Olivia: That’s what we’re going to find out...! Carlos... go on!
Carlos: The managers, they were saying, that they know these buildings – the café, and your shop – they know they’re
historic buildings, and they know they can’t knock them down...
Magda: Yes... that’s what I found out... I told Bindyu... she put it in the paper...
Carlos: Yes – they’ve read the newspaper, they said. They know there’s nothing they can do...
Olivia: So?
Magda: So?
Harry: So?
Tony: So?
Carlos: So... they’re not going to knock them down! The campaign was a success! You’ve won!