Labour Pains

A strict new regime is causing problems at Nonnatus House as the warm-hearted drama returns.

- Caren Clark and Alison Slade

Seismic shifts are a foot as the sixth series of the period drama begins this week with stalwart Sister Julienne being ousted from her rightful place in charge of Nonnatus House.

While the nuns and midwives were helping a mission hospital in South Africa in the Christmas episode, newcomer and strict disciplinarian Sister Ursula (Harriet Walter), has been covering for Sister Julienne (played by Jenny Agutter) – and when she is given the role permanently, Sister Julienne is left to serve under her in an austere new regime.

TEST OF FAITH

‘It is a slap in the face for Sister Julienne. It is a real shake-up, but with her faith, she probably sees it as a test,’ says Agutter, who admits that she felt put out herself at having to move out of her character’s usual haunts.