Rock & Chips

Christmas is coming and money is tight in the Trotter household. Reg and Ted are still their usual workshy selves. It's only Del who is bringing in any cash, from his market stall dealings in American imported records.

The story picks up the Trotters after the birth of baby Rodney in 1960 and follows the fortunes of the family as Del progresses to manhood.

"I'm delighted that Del's winkle-pickers and bomber jacket are back for a Christmas special on BBC One," says write John Sullivan. "The first Rock & Chips was a great popular success for the channel and there are plenty more twists and turns in the Trotter family history for us to explore before we're finished."

It's Christmas 1960 and the Trotters are settling into their new flat in Sir Walter Raleigh House, Peckham. Rodney is a babe in arms, Reg is still drawing the dole and hard-working Joan is struggling to keep the family afloat after losing her jobs at the town hall and the cinema. A 16-year-old Del has left school and is exploring employment opportunities around the docks - including a nice line in selling 45s straight off the back of a boat from America - and Freddie Robdal has been temporarily detained in Wormwood Scrubs at Her Majesty's pleasure.

Joan's fortunes start to look up when she gets her old job back as the ice-cream girl at the local cinema. Freddie is released on bail but will a chance meeting with Joan rekindle dangerous old passions? And will Freddie be able to stay out of prison long enough to get to know baby Rodney?

Meanwhile Del, who has been advised that slipping an engagement ring on a girl's finger can open up a whole new world of lustful opportunity, has managed to get himself engaged to half of Peckham. But will any of his engagements lead to a trip up the aisle?