Watch The Catherine Cookson Anthology: Tilly Trotter

The Catherine Cookson Anthology: Tilly Trotter is a captivating drama series from Bfs Entertainment that portrays the life of a young woman named Tilly Trotter, played by Carli Norris, living in the 19th century North East England countryside. Set against a backdrop of class divide, family feuds, and societal expectations, the series is a visual portrayal of one woman's journey towards self-discovery and finding love.

Tilly Trotter was born on the wrong side of the tracks, in a croft in County Durham. Despite a difficult upbringing, she is determined to make something of herself and tries to carve out a better life than her parents ever had. Her fierce independence and resilience are tested when she falls in love with the wealthy and privileged Mark Sopwith, played by Simon Shepherd, and must navigate the treacherous waters of the class system.

As the story unfolds, we witness Tilly's struggle to gain acceptance in a society that is closed off to those from lower classes. She faces opposition from Mark's family, who believe that Tilly's social standing is beneath Mark's, and she discovers a darker side of humanity as she becomes embroiled in a battle with her father-in-law. Through her trials, we also see her strength, compassion and resilience in the face of adversity, as she rises to become a pillar of the community.

The series is beautifully shot, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes of North East England - from the rugged coastlines to the rolling hills of countryside. The sets, costume design, and soundtrack also transport viewers back in time, immersing them in the world of the Victorian era.

The show is led by a talented cast who bring their characters to life with convincing performances. Carli Norris is outstanding as Tilly, bringing depth and nuance to her character, as she experiences heartache and triumphs. Sarah Alexander plays Tilly's closest friend and confidant, Lady Agnes Sopwith, who supports her through her struggles with Mark's family. Beth Goddard is also captivating as Tilly's nemesis, Mrs. Sopwith, who refuses to accept Tilly into her family.

Simon Shepherd brings a sense of vulnerability to his portrayal of Mark Sopwith, as he struggles to reconcile his love for Tilly with the expectations of his class. Meanwhile, Gavin Abbott delivers a standout performance as the brooding and dangerous Raine, Tilly's former lover, who seeks revenge against Tilly after she breaks his heart. His presence injects a sense of excitement and danger into the series, which keeps viewers engaged throughout.

The Catherine Cookson Anthology: Tilly Trotter is a masterful adaptation of one of Cookson's most beloved novels. It captures the spirit of the original text, while also bringing something fresh and new to the story. The series is an inspiring tale of one woman's journey towards self-discovery and empowerment, set against a rich visual backdrop that transports viewers back in time. It is a must-watch for any fan of historical dramas or romance.