Ep 7. Cats and Sharks

In Doc Martin season 5 episode 7, titled "Cats and Sharks," the quaint town of Portwenn is getting ready for the annual gig race. The residents are excited to see which team will come out on top and take home the coveted trophy.

Meanwhile, Doc Martin (played by Martin Clunes) is dealing with a patient who has a rather unusual condition. A young woman named Lucy (played by Maria Miles) has been experiencing strange symptoms that seem to be getting worse every day. She visits the doctor's office, only to be met with disbelief from the grumpy medic.

But as Lucy's condition worsens, Doc Martin soon realizes that there may be something more serious going on. He orders a battery of tests and enlists the help of other medical professionals to determine the root of her health problems.

As the gig race approaches, tensions are high in Portwenn. The two main teams, led by Bert Large (played by Ian McNeice) and Malcolm Rayner (played by Tim Goodman-Hill), are determined to come out on top. But when a series of mishaps befall the competitors, both teams start to feel as though the race may be jinxed.

Meanwhile, a group of tourists arrives in town hoping to catch a glimpse of a rare shark that has been spotted off the coast. They enlist the help of local fisherman, Al Large (played by Joe Absolom), to take them out on his boat and try to catch a glimpse of the elusive creature.

As the various storylines collide, Doc Martin finds himself in the middle of a series of unexpected events. From solving Lucy's medical mystery to trying to keep the peace between the competing gig teams, the doctor has his hands full.

As always, the show features a mix of humor, heart, and drama. Fans of the series will be delighted to see their favorite characters back in action, and newcomers to the show will be drawn in by the quirky charm of the town and its residents.

Overall, "Cats and Sharks" is a standout episode that showcases the best of what Doc Martin has to offer. With solid writing, strong performances, and a memorable storyline, it is an excellent addition to the series.