When Michael has to head home for Christmas, Stella throws herself into work on the hospital's children's ward.

The first Christmas without Rob Morgan is proving tough on Luke who is keeping his feelings bottled up. Nadine returns to Pontyberry intent of reconciling with Karl. A representative from Pontyberry's twin town arrives and ends up staying with Auntie Brenda. Stella gives birth to a baby girl whom she and Michael name Holly. Karl tells Nadine that although they will remain friends he can no longer trust her following her affair with Ivan and they part company.