Downton Abbey

The addictive series premieres with the lives of the Crawley family and Downton Abbey servants changing when the Titanic's sinking leaves the estate without an apparent heir. Some of the staff plot to make the stay of the new valet short-

Everyone is anxious about the arrival of Matthew Crawley and his mother, Isobel. They have difficulty adjusting to class differences and resent his being the new heir.

Cora's attempts at matchmaking are dashed when Mary is smitten with the friend of an intended suitor. The couple's attraction starts a series of events with consequences that affect the entire household.

The fair arrives in the village, and Mrs Hughes finds herself the centre of speculation when she reunites with a former suitor. Meanwhile, Violet and Isobel lock horns over Molesley's medical ailment.

As the village prepares for the annual flower show, Isobel conflicts with Violet. Mary is introduced to a potential suitor, but she is taking notice of Matthew.

Sybil's determination to pursue her political leanings ends up causing her an injury when a fight breaks out at an election campaign meeting. Sybil's sisters note Matthew's tenderness in caring for her.

Cora makes a discovery that could throw the inheritance issue into chaos. Under pressure from her aunt, Lady Rosamund Painswick, Mary keeps Matthew waiting for an answer to his proposal in the suspense-filled season finale.