Close to Home

Oct 1, 1989

James' ex-wife Helen arrives, saying that she has left her current husband and intends to move back in with the family. However, Helen's husband Frank, a member of the mafia, comes looking for her.

Oct 8, 1989

The Shepherds are in for a shock when teenage Kate's 35-year-old boyfriend comes for dinner.

Oct 15, 1989

Robbie enrols his father in a computer dating scheme.

Oct 22, 1989

Various interested parties try to involve James in fixing a horse race.

Oct 29, 1989

James' veterinarian duties involve a farting dog, then when he gets home, Helen's ancient father introduces his considerably younger singer/songwriter girlfriend.

Nov 5, 1989

James tears Kate off a strip for staying out late at a party; the rather predictable result is Kate attempts to leave home.

Nov 12, 1989

James and Helen's inefficient lawyer believes their divorce may not have been finalised.

Nov 19, 1989

Kate's boyfriend has an unusual excuse for standing her up.

Nov 26, 1989

Frank calls from Sicily to tell Helen that's he's found someone else.

Sep 16, 1990

James takes the children to a farm and meets attractive Vicky.

Sep 23, 1990

James goes on a date with three women — one of whom is Helen.

Sep 30, 1990

James invites Vicky to dinner — but they are joined by Helen.

Oct 7, 1990

Vicky's Council leader creates problems for her at the farm.

Oct 14, 1990

James's trainee Graham starts; Robbie's unwillingness to dissect a frog causes problems at school.

Oct 21, 1990

An overheard phone call from Vicky to James about an unplanned pregnancy leads to a predictable but amusing misunderstanding.

Oct 28, 1990

James rashly promises to buy Kate a new car if she passes her driving test on the first go.

Nov 4, 1990

As Rose announces she's leaving for work in Australia, Helen announces she's emigrating to Sicily to reunite with Frank and wants the children to go with her. Kate and Robbie overhear Vicky receiving a proposal from a gentleman.

Nov 11, 1990

A storm means all the women staying the night at the Shepherds'.

Nov 18, 1990

Various family members plan to use the house for their own romantic assignations when James and Vicky leave for the weekend.