Martin has been finding life in Portwenn frustrating since Louisa has left town following their non wedding. Martin considers taking his life in a new direction after he runs into ex girlfriend, Edith, who is now a high flying doctor. When Louisa returns to town with news, Martin finds his plans in doubt again.

After Martin learns Louise's news, she is determined that he wont be involved. Louise learns something about the past that Edith and Martin shared. The new headmaster at the school is acting oddly.

PC Penhale is happy when his brother, Sam comes for a visit. Martin thinks that Sam may have a rare genetic disease after he offers to paint the surgery and he watches him. After a blood test is done the results could mean the brothers relationship is changed forever. Al uses some advise that Bert gives him but it just makes his relationship with Pauline worse. Edith hears some embarrassing things about Martin from Louisa.

When Louisa decides to try and get the headmaster's job at the school, Martin is not all that positive about it. When Al acts secretive, Pauline is worried something is going on. Things don't go as planned when a couple come to see Martin wanting a a disabled parking permit for the village. Martin learns that Joan and the farm are having money problems.

Dr Martin Ellingham is in London to meet with Robert Dashwood, who is leading the selection process for the prestigious London surgeon's job that Martin has applied for. Robert can tell that Martin is excited to be back in the world of surgery, and is pleased that Martin has finally conquered his debilitating blood phobia. Robert is confident that Martin will get the job.

Martin isn't happy with the holistic approach the village's midwife has and is furious when her advice to Louisa has a bad reaction. Bert taking a liking to the new cook but is upset when he finds out she is married. Aunt Joan tells Martin that he needs to be honest with Louisa about his future plans.

There are rumours about Martin's plans to leave the village circulating. Pauline confronts Martin after she is worried about her future. Ted is taken to the surgery by Joan after she suspects he might have had a heart attack. Martin attends a medical conference where Edith is to give an important speech. After a bloody accident at the conference Martin becomes really convinced that he could make things work in London.

As Martin gets ready to leave the village for good he is surprised by the amount of people who come to see him on his last day at work. Louisa is in danger.