Lyn Douglas

Set in working class Newcastle, the Stott family fight their private battles against the backdrop of the conflict of World War II. Helen Stott, over thirty and with a limp, is resigned to being left on the shelf until she meets and falls in love with Norman, a serviceman from London. In contrast, her younger sister Joyce has quite a way with men, and finds herself a little too popular with the troops, especially when her husband pops up on leave from his regiment.

A proud socialist and community activist wrestles with the decision to accept an honour from the Queen

"Honestly, mam, it's all a load of rubbish. I mean, I read me horoscope and things like that, for a joke... but this." A group of women gather to have their fortunes told by a drunken clairvoyant.