Manchester reporter Chris Hawthorne and his wife Fliss live simple with few possessions, and their twin babies. Their life changes when they take in Gavin Rumsey as a lodger, as his wife Carol has just left him. However, he brings with him lots of modern furniture, and a Scalextric set!

Seven days later, Chris and Fliss continue trying to get Gavin to move out, but when he brings in a new colour television, Chris begins to think he's not so bad.

Fliss complains about the cost of living, she can't feed three as cheaply as two, so Gavin gives a very generous contribution. But when Chris demands a share, he finds himself locked out.

It's the Hawthornes' wedding anniversary, but Chris finds he has to work covering a football match, leaving Fliss to tag along.

It's Chris's day off, but his and Fliss's plans are ruined when Gavin turns up from work ill. Dr MacKenzie thinks there's not really that much wrong with him. Having had enough, Fliss goes to her mum's and leaves the men to it.

Gavin gets promoted. Chris wants to go down to Fleet Street for work, while Connie introduces Fliss to Tarot. The Hawthornes go for a reading with Madame Stellaris, followed by a trip to London.

Gavin announces that Carol wants to sell their house. She asks Chris a favor — will he show some prospective buyers around. It goes alarmingly well, despite his best efforts. Then there's the Selling Up party.