The year is 1979. Nicky has put himself forward as the Labour candidate in the general election but he faces tough opposition from Tory candidate Claudia Seabrook (Saskia Wickham) and her team, who intend Nicky's past actions to catch up with him. Nicky is living in the Willow Lane flats as is Geordie who has finally returned to Newcastle. Anthony, Tosker and Mary's son, is displaying behavioural difficulties whilst Tosker falls for a woman called Elaine...

The year is 1984. The miner's strike is in full swing and Anthony (Daniel Casey), who is now a policeman, is fully involved in the struggle. Felix has started to develop Alzheimers, whilst Nicky is working as a photographer again. Tosker is now married to Elaine and his business ventures are doing well. Mary, who is now a qualified lawyer and Deputy Leader of the council, and Nicky become close again...

The year is 1987. Nicky and Mary are now married and living in Newcastle. However, whilst on a trip to London, Nicky has a brief affair with a young woman. Whilst there he is amazed when he bumps into Geordie, who is now living rough on the streets of London. Felix is admitted to a home. Meanwhile, Tosker and Elaine's lifestyle is under serious threat when the stock market collapses...

The year is 1995. Tosker and Elaine are opening a nightclub boat on the Tyne. When Tosker is reunited with Geordie, who has escaped from prison, he gives him a job helping them to set up for the opening night. Nicky and Mary are now long since separated and the latter has become an MP. When Nicky's mother, Florrie, dies, the four friends are reunited once again...