Portwenn's grumpy GP seems determined to cast himself as the Grinch, his first move here being to disappoint the kids by snatching Santa from his grotto because he suspects him of having a contagious skin condition. And don't get the Doc started on the dangers of displaying trees indoors. They're a fire hazard, apparently. With all this in mind, you'd think he’d be immune to the magic of Christmas, but this series finale tries to get Martin to see the error of his ways. Rather touchingly, it must be said. And, what's more, there's not a National Elf Service joke in sight.

After having his career scrutinised by the General Medical Council because of his blood phobia, Martin makes efforts to overcome his fear and begins to question whether he made the right decision about resigning.

The surgery is chaotic, with both Martin and Louisa now practising from it. Bert's new business venture with Al doesn't get off to a good start, and Penhale suspects noise complaints are due to paranormal activity.

Martin is called to an emergency at a local farm, but much to his annoyance the sick farmer, Ron Pickford seems well enough to be managing his lambing sheep.

Martin rubs up against the new herbalist and Penhale, Louisa and James are all interested in Janice's new pedicure fish. Martin's ex-flame invites him to speak as keynote speaker at Imperial College, and Ruth is back from Mexico with more than maracas.

Louisa is shocked and Martin suspicious by the unannounced return of her father. Ruth is helping Martin with his blood phobia when she discovers his predicament, and an unexpected caravan squatter thwarts Bert's dreams of making a quick buck.

Martin and Louisa are off to London for Martin to present his research paper - Janice is looking after the children, but things don't go smoothly when Penhale tries to help. Martin also has a few hiccups, including an unexpected proposition or two...

The news of Martin's Imperial College job offer is flying through the village, but the Ellinghams are yet to make a decision. Caitlin blames Bert for the flooded pub cellar, and an emergency on the rocks helps Morwenna make some important decisions.

The villagers throw the Ellinghams a farewell party and Ruth helps Mrs Tishell deal with the news and encourages her to attend, but it seems that Martin and Louisa aren't going to make it because a farmer has spotted their lost dog.