Set in working class Newcastle, the Stott family fight their private battles against the backdrop of the conflict of World War II. Helen Stott, over thirty and with a limp, is resigned to being left on the shelf until she meets and falls in love with Norman, a serviceman from London. In contrast, her younger sister Joyce has quite a way with men, and finds herself a little too popular with the troops, especially when her husband pops up on leave from his regiment.

Phyllis Logan
as Helen

Tom Watt
as Norman

Joan Plowright
as Mam

John Woodvine
as George

Stephen Tompkinson
as Eric

Pippa Hinchley
as Joyce

Willie Ross
as Harold, the Communist

Des Young
as Andie

Val McLane
as Hotel Owner

Bob Smeaton
as Geoff