A new family arrives in Skelthwaite, putting Anna's nose out of joint. David is shocked when Karen is contacted by someone from the past.

Karen's happiness at finding her son begins to fade when she discovers his dark secret.

Karen follows her runaway son to London. Alan enters the men into a talent contest.

Sally is appalled by Nathan's taste when he falls for the rich daughter of a local rugby team captain.

There is turmoil when Karen leaves. David decides that there is nothing left for him in Skelthwaite.

A line dancer comes to Skelthwaite and takes a shine to Anna, while Nathan announces that he wants to marry.

Beth and Tom's relationship is put to the test as they struggle to come to terms with her ectopic pregnancy.

On Beth and Tom's wedding day, Jo puts a spanner in the works by saying he doesn't want to be best man.

The nurses go on strike with their various family Christmas preparations and insist the men take over. At work, the women try to reconcile a father and daughter, while Anna has an unexpected suitor.