Schoolteacher Rose Davies is a well-loved member of the Skelthwaite community and has taught at the local primary for years. Her irreverent fun and wacky teaching methods have made her a favourite with her pupils. New Head Elaine Cheverton takes a different view of Rose's erratic behaviour. Elaine suspects that Rose is a secret drinker, and asks the nurses to find out. As a former pupil of Rose's, Beth finds Elaine's accusations outrageous. She defends Rose, and over looks the fact that Rose's trademark scattiness is out of control. Anna takes a more rational approach, and wonders whether Rose is suffering from depression- something, which would explain her mood swings and irrational behaviour. The final straw comes when Rose disappears with a group of children. The children are found wandering near a busy road. Beth finds Rose in the woods, and realises that she is suffering from the early stages of Alzheimer's. With Rose off sick, the concert that she had been organising looks as if