As a result of the injuries he received when he was attacked during his army training, John is discharged from national service. Despite his damaged body, he is determined to develop the timber framing system as quickly as possible. Alison´s behaviour also increases his desire to divorce her. The housing development at Stacey Park wins an award and, as a result of his speech at the ceremony, further, even larger development opportunities arise. Helped by Marian´s money, he also purchases a site for luxury flats in the West End of London. Meanwhile Rosemary has had his baby son, and he persuades her to come to live with him at Riversmeet.