Filmed on location in the North of England, this story is based on Catherine Cookson's novel of hardship, betrayal and family life in a 19th century working class town. Roddy and Hal have been friends since childhood, and their closeness strengthened by the murder of their fathers by the same man. Mary Ellen is also in their circle of friends, but when she is rejected by Roddy after an affair that leaves her pregnant, she turns to Hal for security. Their lives spiral into an explosive dramatic conclusion.
On the death of his father, Roddy Greenbank is adopted by Kate Makepeace and forms close friendships with Hal and Mary Ellen. As they develop into adults their lives become more and more intertwined... Based on the novel by Catherine Cookson.