Magnolia Gardens — Anna Jacobs

Nestled at the heart of the Wiltshire village of Essington St Mary lies a charming park which boasts two magnificent magnolia trees. New arrivals to the neighbourhood, including those being helped by a local charitable trust, are strolling in their shade. Amongst them is Brett, just out of the care system; Carla, escaping an abusive ex-partner; and Matthew, a widower whose house burnt down while he was in hospital.

As new beginnings dawn and the coming weeks unfold, Brett, Carla and Matthew will set out on paths to lives they could not have imagined when they first came to Magnolia Gardens.