Richard Teverson

(Original UK Edition) There is excitement in the house and village as the annual cricket match approaches with old scores to be settled and new plots hatched. Violets spirited greatniece Rose arrives with scandal following close behind.

As Tom and Sybbie settle back into life at Downton, the family and servants are surprised with the return of another old friend in unexpected circumstances. A visit from Sergeant Willis leaves Baxter with a dilemma, and Thomas struggles to fill Mr Carson’s shoes. A crisis takes Anna and Mary to London; will Bates find out what Anna has been keeping from him? Daisy has a bone to pick with Cora, and Mary’s eye is caught by an admirer.

Mary’s meddling gets Mr Carson into trouble with Mrs Hughes as planning for their wedding gets underway, and Cora and Violet are pitted against each other over plans for the hospital takeover. Thomas’s job search continues with disheartening consequences, and an idea of Mary’s takes Anna to London and offers new hope. Edith faces challenges at the magazine but it’s a problem closer to home that reaches breaking point. What begins as a happy day out for the family and servants ends in panic and leaves Robert with a difficult decision to make.

Lady Persie's life has become increasingly complex, as she continues her illicit affair and pursues her right-wing political interests with little regard of the potential danger to those she loves. Meanwhile, Lady Agnes prepares for motherhood by having her picture taken by celebrated photographer Cecil Beaton and Sir Hallam finds himself dragged into the abdication crisis facing the monarchy.