When Martin Ellingham, an eminent London surgeon, develops an aversion to blood, he abandons his career and becomes general practitioner in the sleepy Cornish village of Portwenn. His lack of bedside manners and tactless behavior has the whole town in an uproar.

As Martin and James wait patiently to see Santa in his Grotto, Martin spots a medical concern that has him shut it down and send Santa packing - until he's sure he isn't infectious. Louisa is determined not to let Martin ruin Christmas.