Hugh finds an unlikely test subject for his revolutionary new artificial heart. Passions are aroused when Charlie and Matt host a wild B&S Ball at their Brewery.

Hugh makes an emergency visit to the city to salvage his career, and learns a family secret that will change his life forever. Charlie's frustration with Meryl's meddling reaches crisis point, and she takes sweet revenge.

Hugh and Penny are forced together during an overnight trip to a coal mine. Meryl turns failure into success when she unveils a new statue to commemorate the town. Aoife confesses her love for Hugh.

Hugh decides to tell Ajax the truth about their relationship, against Jim's advice. Meryl forces her family to support her campaign for mayor.

Hugh struggles to prove his innocence and win back Penny after failing a drug test. Meryl and Charlie lock horns over Hayley's entry in the Miss Whyhope competition. Ajax makes the worst decision of his life.