In the first episode, it's May 1945 and James visits ArchieTredwell's farm to help with a difficult lambing, with theever-curious young Jimmy in tow. However, the farmer's belovedsheepdog Fly soon requires James's attention when she has anasty fall. Archie notes a big stray dog that's been seenaround the area, known to the locals as the ‘Barghest'.Backat Skeldale, James realises that Fly has arthritis and mightnot be able to work for much longer, leaving the youngersheepdog Lad to step up. Tristan arrives home from his postingin Italy to find the house in all kinds of chaos! Tristan'sperturbed by Siegfried's behaviour and James explains what anightmare he's been.James and Tristan head out of Darrowby tofind the only person who can help – Mrs Hall.James and Helenare now now living at Heston Grange with the children. Helen isconcerned about the state of Skeldale and Siegfried, butdoesn't approve of James's plan to fix it.When the vets are allout looking for Archie's flock of sheep James gives Siegfriedsome home truths. However, is it too late for Siegfried to gethis act together?
