Disillusioned by his wartime experiences in France, ex-sergeant Jack Ford (James Bolam) returns home to Gallowshields on Tyneside in search for a job - any job. Unfortunately, with Britain in the grip of recession, there is no work to be had. Aligning himself with the equally impoverished Seaton family, Jack sets about improving his fortunes - and along the way falls deeply in love with Jessica Seaton (Susan Jameson).