John Thaw (Inspector Morse) stars as the widowed and cantankerous Tom Oakley in this charming film adaptation of the prize-winning children's novel by Michelle Magorian.

When the Second World War is declared, Tom finds that his quiet life in the village of Little Weirwold is set to change when nine-year old Willie Beech (Nick Robinson) is evacuated from London and billeted on him. Willie is a quiet sad child with a deprived and disturbing past, but he slowly begins to flourish under the care of 'Mister Tom' and enjoys an idyllic village life.

Gradually a strong bond of friendship develops between the two. Then, quite suddenly, his mother (Annabelle Apsion) summons Willie back to the terrors of Blitz-torn London. Tom is left feeling lonely and wondering if he will ever see his dear friend again.