Cranford

Mary Smith flees a crisis at home in Manchester to stay with two spinster sisters, Deborah and Matty Jenkyns, in the small, rural town of Cranford where she finds the womenfolk of the town sparkling with anticipation at the arrival of some new neighbours. A young, handsome new Doctor sets many hearts racing, and the retired Captain Brown causes quite a stir when he moves in across the street.

Preparations are underway for Lady Ludlow's annual garden party, and emotions are running high in Cranford. Mrs Forrester is sent into a fluster when her beloved cow, Bessie, goes missing, and Caroline Tomkinson is very taken with the winsome Dr Harrison. A visitor brings hope and joy to Jessie Brown, while Miss Matty is shaken by an unexpected encounter with an old friend. But when a spot of eavesdropping unveils some startling news, it seems that Cranford is about to change forever...

Suspicion and mistrust ripple through Cranford as a theft and an assault prompt fears of a crime wave. Harry must make a formidable decision in order to save his father, and Miss Pole resorts to desperate measures to safeguard her treasures. Love blossoms in the hearts of many as spring approaches, and Dr Harrison's friend Jack causes mischief on Valentine's day.

A maze of misunderstandings leads the ladies of Cranford astray as May Day approaches. Miss Tomkinson's ambiguous conversation with the young doctor sets in motion a disastrous train of events, while Miss Matty is forced to face up to some life-changing news.

Dr Harrison finds both his career and his reputation ruined, and his courtship destroyed. Miss Matty receives some devastating news, but the depth of Cranford's friendships is revealed as the ladies secretly rally to help. Miss Galindo and Mr Carter's friendship strengthens as they are forced to face up to the true tragedy of Hanbury, and Jack returns to try and make amends.