The Brockman family have decided to foster a sense of community by throwing a Christmas party for their neighbours. However, as expected, festivities do not go as smoothly as planned. They are visited by some colourful guests, including, among others, an opinionated neighbour, a traumatised ex-weatherman and that most unwelcome of guests, a seasonal gastric virus.

The family want to go away for Christmas, but can they go with Grandad in hospital? And should they go when Jane is their house-sitter? And was it really wise to give Ben a metal detector as a present?

As the family tries to get rid of Auntie Angela, another guest comes to stay. Meanwhile, Mum has to decide what to do about Jake's girlfriend, and Ben and Karen discuss dreams, the mafia and trampolining bears.

Mum is still convinced Jake has a secret, while Ben is determined to enter a school talent competition with an unusual double act. Then a couple of surprise callers make life more difficult than usual for the family.

There is a lot to discuss at Ben's parents' evening, including muggers, dangerous chemicals and re-enactments of the Great Plague. Mum still suspects that Jake is hiding something, and Karen decides which of the world's great religions to lead.

Karen is on a sleepover, and Ben is away at adventure camp. Mum and Dad are left with a labrador to look after, and get a glimpse of what life will be like once the children have left home.

Mum has had enough of the boys' attitudes to housework so sets out on a campaign to civilise them. Karen battles with chuggers and buying shoes, while Dad goes to war with a domestic appliance.

The Brockman family have some tough decisions to make about work, video games, and who to take to a family funeral. They leave the vicar wishing none of them had gone.