Darren Thompson was a nurse who attended to Val Pollard after she was admitted to Hotten General in March 2015. Whilst looking after Val Darren meets Val's employee Finn Barton and they begin a relationship. Finn's best friend Victoria Sugden recognises Darren from one of Val's HIV lectures. Finn is not fazed by him being HIV positive but Val, who herself is HIV positive, and Finn's mother Emma are not pleased. Darren receives text messages telling him to stay away from Finn. He initially believes Finn himself is behind the texts. After making up with Finn, Darren's car is vandalised. He again accuses Finn, who's phone was found inside the car. Darren leaves and Finn vows to find out who has been trying to mess up his relationship. Val confides in her husband Eric that she is behind everyt