Doc Martin is back on ITV tonight, and Dr Martin Ellingham finds himself in therapy – which is a “big step” for the angry physician, according to Martin Clunes.

“I suppose there is a different side to him, he’s got a different head on,” the lead actor revealed, looking ahead to the seventh series of the popular drama set in the Cornish village of Portwenn. “There’s an attempt to resolve this in his way.”

The doctor visits his aunt Ruth and asks her for help in finding a therapist, after his wife Louisa (Caroline Catz) told him he had to get help. “He’s made a plan, he’s going to fix it and get hold of the reins here,” Martin explained.

Doc Martin
Doc Martin (Nicky Johnston/BBC)

Louisa is currently in Spain with their son James, staying with her mother – and Doc Martin has no idea when – or if – they’re coming back.

He soon finds help with Dr Rachel, and Martin confirmed that his character would “resolve” his issues with Louise “in and out of therapy”.

According to the Daily Mirror, the first episode will also feature a daring lifeboat rescue by none other than Martin’s perennially sickly, ditzy receptionist Morwenna (Jessica Ransom).

Doc Martin and Morwenna Newcross rescuing Steve
Doc Martin and Morwenna Newcross rescuing Steve (Neil Genower/BBC)

One of Martin’s patients, former lifeboat hero Steve, needs to pass a medical before he can re-create his famous sea rescue for the film crew in town for the anniversary.

But Steve ends up needing to be rescued himself when he takes the lifeboat out to sea, passes out at the wheel, and then crashes spectacularly on to shore.

Doc Martin returns to ITV tonight (September 7) at 9pm.