In the first episode, it's May 1945 and James visits Archie Tredwell's farm to help with a difficult lambing, with the ever-curious young Jimmy in tow. However, the farmer's beloved sheepdog Fly soon requires James's attention when she has a nasty fall. Archie notes a big stray dog that's been seen around the area, known to the locals as the ‘Barghest'.Back at Skeldale, James realises that Fly has arthritis and might not be able to work for much longer, leaving the younger sheepdog Lad to step up. Tristan arrives home from his posting in Italy to find the house in all kinds of chaos! Tristan's perturbed by Siegfried's behaviour and James explains what a nightmare he's been.James and Tristan head out of Darrowby to find the only person who can help – Mrs Hall.James and Helen are now now living at Heston Grange with the children. Helen is concerned about the state of Skeldale and Siegfried, but doesn't approve of James's plan to fix it.When the vets are all out looking for Archie's flock of sheep James gives Siegfried some home truths. However, is it too late for Siegfried to get his act together?