First-look images have been unveiled for the Call The Midwife Christmas special, Sisters In Arms, following the completion of filming.
The three-part episode serves as a prequel, set in Poplar in September 1939 during the outbreak of the Second World War.
The pictures feature new cast members Julie Hesmondhalgh, Helena Wilson, Ellie McKay, Liv Andrusier, and Lizzie Back, seen in their uniforms for the first time.
Heidi Thomas, writer and showrunner, said: “Call The Midwife has a long and noble history of filming Christmas specials during heatwaves, and this year we welcomed the snow-machine back to the Nonnatus House set like an old friend.
“But I was surprised how many new emotions Call The Midwife: Sisters In Arms sparked. In particular, the evacuation of Poplar’s children, and the fear that they may not make it home for Christmas had us all in tears.”
Call The Midwife, which follows the group of nurse midwives working in east London through the decades, began in January 2012 and has had 15 series, with each featuring a Christmas special.
A synopsis for the special from the BBC reads: “Sister Monica Joan is in her prime, Sister Julienne and Sister Evangelina are young and zealous, and Nonnatus House is the beating heart of Poplar.
“Together with Sister Alice, and local GP Dr Kit, the nuns dedicate their lives to mothers, babies and those in need. But there is no gas and air, no penicillin, no cure for TB, and no welfare state.
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“Then war is declared – and life gets even harder. The three young secular midwives who complete the team – Sybil, Olive and Marianne – receive a baptism of fire as the blackout and the Blitz take hold.
“While bombs rain from the sky, women give birth underground, families are shattered, children run wild, and whole streets are reduced to rubble. But courage, compassion and resilience triumph as the community unites in its efforts to survive.”
An exact broadcast date has yet to be announced but the special will be aired during the festive period.
Previous series of Call The Midwife are available on BBC iPlayer.