Synopsis: A three-part adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell’s “Cranford,” about life in an 1840s Cheshire village. Judi Dench and Eileen Atkins star as sisters Matty and Deborah Jenkyns who, in the opener, welcome an old friend (Lisa Dillon) to live with them. Also, the town’s new doctor (Simon Woods) introduces new medical procedures and causes hearts to swoon; and a railroad headed Cranford’s way causes some concern.

Airs: Sunday, May 4, 2008; PBS; 9-11 PM EST

Part 2 on Sunday, May 11, 2008

Part 3 on Sunday, May 18, 2008