Emmerdale new production team headed by executive producer Keith Richardson was brought in and the show's focus moved to the nearby village of Beckindale, with more dramatic storylines such as Pat Sugden's 1986 car crash and the 1988 Crossgill fire. By 1988, the show had been moved to an evening time slot in all ITV regions. "Emmerdale Farm" also began broadcasting episodes year-round that year. Reflecting its change in focus, the title was changed to "Emmerdale" on 14 November 1989. Coinciding with the title change was the introduction of the wealthy Tate family, bringing with them racier storylines. Under Richardson, the
Emmerdale who left home at 18. Jack returned in the opening episode, avoiding the funeral and waiting for the Sugdens at the farm. The first episode, along with the others, have been repeated and released on a variety of media. Characters introduced in the first episode were: Originally meant to be a three-month serial, "Emmerdale Farm" was given an extended run, later moving to a late afternoon time slot. By 1977, it was moved to a prime time evening slot in most ITV regions. By the late 1980s, the show was in danger of being cancelled due to poor ratings. A