Elliot Hope's plans for a quiet family Christmas are derailed when former Holby doctor Oliver Valentine returns - as a patient! With his heart failing and, knowing he doesn't have long to live, Oliver pleads with Elliot to trial his new heart device on him. But with Elliot's invention still a work-in-progress, Jac reckons the procedure is too risky - will Elliot ignore protocol and save his friend's life?
Meanwhile, a well-meaning Ric tries to give some fatherly advice to his AAU flock, but does he create more trouble than he calms? It's been a hard year for all and the AAU family must pull together to bring about some Christmas cheer.
Also, Arthur proves wiser than his years when he comes to Zosia and Guy's aid as they struggle to deal with an uncertain future.
