List of Heartbeat episodes

The following is a list of episodes for the British ITV period police drama Heartbeat. The programme first aired on Friday 10 April 1992 and 18 series were transmitted. The first series broadcast on a Friday in the 9 pm slot, where as series 2-18 all aired on Sunday evenings before the 9 pm watershed.

174 episodes of Heartbeat were aired between 1992 and 2001.

Series 1 (1992)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate
1"Changing Places"Johnny ByrneRoger Cheveley10 April 1992 (10 April 1992)

PC Nick Rowan arrives in the North Riding village of Aidensfield as the new village Bobby, but he soon discovers the villagers are not so welcoming to outsiders and he must work hard to gain a place within their community. His tough sergeant, Oscar Blaketon, an "old school" cop, will show no mercy to men not up to the job. On his first day, Nick has his work cut out with an Australian prowler, two bike racers, rockers and mods, and a hostile publican, not to mention stopping the antics of Blaketon's nemesis - the roguish Claude Greengrass. Nick's wife, Kate, who grew up in Aidensfield, hopes to get a job working with Dr Ferrenby at the village surgery. She is dealt a bitter blow when Ferrenby rejects her services due to prejudice in the village. Undeterred, Kate is determined to fight for her job, and her medical skills are put to the test when a pregnant woman goes into labour.

First Appearance of Nick Berry as PC Nick Rowan, Niamh Cusack as Kate Rowan, Derek Fowlds as Oscar Blaketon, Bill Maynard as Claude Greengrass, William Simons as Alf Ventress, Mark Jordon as Phil Bellamy, Frank Middlemass as Alec Ferrenby, Stuart Golland as George Ward, and Jack Deam as Alan Maskell.

Guest stars: Del Henney, Suzanna Hitchmough, Malcolm Hebden
2"Fruits of the Earth"Johnny ByrneTim Dowd17 April 1992 (17 April 1992)

The Ashfordly station is up for inspection, and Blaketon wants everyone to be on their toes, which means the herald of a new, busier, routine for the chain-smoking Alf Ventress and the laid-back Phil Bellamy. However, strange happenings on Kirlby Moor prompt Nick to investigate the disappearance of a fisherman and a banker, and he also has to deal with a drunk who has a reputation for exposing himself in public. Meanwhile, Alan Maskell tries to get his life together by starting a business. Trouble arises when he is rejected a loan from the bank, whilst Kate clashes with Ferrenby over how to deal with a fragile women who has just had a baby.

First Appearance of Simon Molloy as DI Shiner

Guest stars: Genevieve Walsh, Ben Forster, Joyce Kennedy, Elspeth Charlton, Roy Alon, Shirley Stelfox, Edward Peel, John Breslin
3"Rumours"David LaneKen Horn24 April 1992 (24 April 1992)

Nick gets a tip-off about Charlie Denby's record shop, one of the most popular places in Aidensfield for teenage boys. The tip-off accuses Denby of having "an unhealthy interest in young boys". Denby pleads innocence. With the evidence staking up and witnesses coming forward, a hate campaign begins. The Ashfordly team try to keep control, only for things to get a lot worse when a witch hunt turns into a murder enquiry. Meanwhile, Greengrass offers to do a spot of gardening for Rene and Francis Kirby. However, his attentions drift slightly when he comes across their valuable antiques.

Guest stars: David Hargreaves, Paul Greenwood, John Forgeham, Elizabeth Spriggs, Edward Mellon
4"Playing with Fire"Rob GittinsEric Wendell1 May 1992 (1 May 1992)

When Nick investigates an arson attack on two barns, he receives information that leaves him hunting down an arsonist - and a rapist. Whilst investigating, he antagonizes some of Aidensfield's highly respected residents. Meanwhile, Greengrass attempts to get rid of a gang of poachers at Ashfordly Hall, whilst a patient with a dilemma causes Kate and Ferrenby to clash once again.

Guest stars: Tony Forsyth, Lottie Ward, Ann Rye, Suzanne Hitchmough
5"Nowt But a Prank"Barry WoodwardJames Ormerod8 May 1992 (8 May 1992)

Nick becomes caught in the middle of a feud between two farmers that has been waging for 20 years. When three tearaway children are caught in the crossfire, the feud looks set to reach a tragic conclusion.

Guest stars: James Cosmo, Paul Copley, Lynn Farleigh, William Ash, Patrick Connolly, Nicky Evans
6"Old, New, Borrowed and Blue"Alan WhitingTim Dowd15 May 1992 (15 May 1992)

When a spate of burglaries leave the police with no leads, Nick suspects local saint Penelope Stiling is not as perfect as villagers think when items she purchased at an auction turn up at one of the crime scenes, whilst Blaketon is more concerned with protecting the next target, Ashfordly Hall. Meanwhile, Alan Maskell is getting married and his father asks Greengrass to organize the transport. At the wedding, Alan's best man causes a stir when he is found in possession of drugs.

First Appearance of Rupert Vansittart as Lord Ashfordly

Guest stars: Justin Chadwick, Annette Crosbie, Simon O'Brien, Michael Carter
7"Face Value"David LaneTerry Iland22 May 1992 (22 May 1992)

Blaketon is certain his team will need no assistance at a ban-the-bomb demonstration. He begins to reconsider when Aidensfield becomes overrun with protesters against the Fylingdales radar station, and Greengrass makes matters worse when he allows the protesters to squat on the land of Ashfordly Hall. If that wasn't bad enough, an American ambassador is visiting the village, and Nick is under pressure to restore peace to the area before he arrives.

Guest stars: Philip Glenister, John Duttine, Antony Byrne
8"Outsiders"Peter BarwoodTim Dowd29 May 1992 (29 May 1992)

When Aidensfield is visited by a family of gypsies, the residents are up in arms against them. Nick discovers the family patriarch, Joseph, an old friend of Greengrass and Ferrenby, has returned to his native soil before cancer ends his life. As they attempt to help the family, Nick and Kate put their own lives at risk when they come under attack from local bigots, and village life descends further into chaos when the church is robbed, the shop is trashed and the vicar's daughter falls in love with Joseph's son.

Guest stars: Daniel Ryan, Jonathan Magnanti, Jim Millea, Ashley Nelson, Roy Boyd, Eleanor Bron
9"Primal Instinct"Brian FinchKen Horn5 June 1992 (5 June 1992)

When a retired Scotland Yard detective is shot dead in his cottage in Aidensfield, Nick is seconded to a Scotland Yard team to help them investigate. As Nick locks horns with an ex-con with a grudge and uncovers a domestic violence case, the other Ashfordly boys have their hands full when the local press goes into meltdown. Meanwhile, Alan Maskell tries to stop a crime - only to end up implicated in it.

Guest stars: Freda Dowie, Breffni McKenna, Caroline O'Neill, Glyn Owen
10"Keep on Running"Johnny ByrneGavan Theoditis12 June 1992 (12 June 1992)

Nick has been offered a job with the anti-drugs-unit within Scotland Yard, only to find his loyalties tested when Alan Maskell is charged as an accessory to car theft, although he helped the team to catch the real thieves. Betrayed and broken, Alan goes on the run, and Nick's search for him leads the bobby back to his roots. Can he convince Alan to face his court hearing and will he leave Aidensfield just as he and Kate are becoming part of the community? Meanwhile, Blaketon is in high spirits when Greengrass ends up in court for sheep rustling, whilst Kate grows concerned for George Ward, owner of the Aidensfield Arms, but he refuses to admit that his health is deteriorating.

Final Appearance of Jack Deam as Alan Maxell

Guest stars: Glyn Owen, Nick Moran, David Boyce, David Birrell, Tom Beard, Stuart Wolfenden, Keith Woodason

Series 2 (1993)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate
1"Secrets"Adele RoseBob Mahoney18 April 1993 (18 April 1993)

When a market trader is held at gunpoint and his van is stolen, Nick suspects Lord Ashfordly's spoiled and erratic son Rupert has something to do with it. The youngster begins using his position at Ashfordly Hall to make life difficult for the Ashfordly officers, and even Blaketon is powerless against him. Meanwhile, Kate befriends a pregnant teenage girl and soon discovers why she is so desperate to conceal the father's identity, whilst Greengrass arouses suspicion with his new boots.

Guest stars: Danielle Tilley, Shirley Vaughan, Marc Warren, Graham Arnold, Jacqueline Basquil, Tubby Andrews
2"End of the Line"David MartinBob Mahoney25 April 1993 (25 April 1993)

Nick's past comes back to haunt him when the grandfather of a damaged girl he apprehended years previously turns up in Aidensfield - and targets Kate! Meanwhile, Greengrass demands action from Blaketon when he sells one of his officers a vintage car at a knockdown price.

Guest stars: Mike Kelly, Annie Boland, Peter Barkworth, Ann Firbank.
3"Manhunt"David LaneKen Horn2 May 1993 (2 May 1993)

A quiet night at the Aidensfield Arms turns into a life or death situation when the pub is targeted by armed robbers, and Nick, Greengrass and George find themselves held at gunpoint in the cellar. Meanwhile, a tip-off from the most unlikeliest source leads to the Ashfordly team cracking down on a number of past crimes, whilst the local newsagent causes a stir when he begins selling Swedish pornography.

Guest stars: Rachel Davies, Samantha Beckinsale, Steve Halliwell, Peter Martin and Mike Kelly.
4"Bitter Harvest"Jane HollowoodKen Horn9 May 1993 (9 May 1993)

When a local farmer discovers his cow has been infected with foot and mouth disease, Aidensfield is put on red alert and the team must act fast to contain it. Meanwhile, Gina Ward, George's wayward Liverpudlian niece, is sent to Aidensfield to help him at the Aidensfield Arms while he is ill, and her bubbly personality and beauty soon sees her become a big hit with the male residents.

First appearance of Tricia Penrose as Gina Ward

Guest stars: Ann Rye, James Hazeldine, Kate Rutter, Peter Alexander, Graham Rigby and Freddie Fletcher
5"Over the Hill"Johnny ByrneTim Dowd16 May 1993 (16 May 1993)

An army deserter descends on Aidensfield when his feud with his racist sergeant results in a horrific death, but when Nick is called to investigate a burglary at a farm, the tormented soldier soon learns he can never escape his troubles. Meanwhile, Kate becomes determined to keep a fractured family together when social services become concerned a grieving widow is unfit to look after her son, only to find herself picking up the pieces from the late Ferrenby's misjudgement, whilst Greengrass in in the constabularies spotlight once again.

Guest stars: Roland Gift, Sandy Hendrickse, Chris Brailsford, Joe Belcher
6"Bang to Rights"Brian FinchTim Dowd23 May 1993 (23 May 1993)

When the matriarch of a well-known criminal family tries to commit suicide, Nick and Kate take in her children. After recovering, she tells Nick that her husband is in prison for a crime he did not commit, and Nick offers to help her get closure by re-investigating the case. Blaketon is against it, especially when it becomes apparent that his predecessor was somehow connected and retired soon after. Meanwhile, PC Phil Bellamy is delighted when his girlfriend falls pregnant and proposes. On his stag night, he is assaulted outside the Aidensfield Arms. With Gina and Greengrass's help, he tries to track down his attacker.

Guest stars: Sue Delaney, Ray Lonnen, Melanie Kilburn, Tim Dantay
7"A Talent for Deception"Jonathan CritchelyTerry Marcel30 May 1993 (30 May 1993)

Nick and Kate's marriage comes under threat when one of Kate's old boyfriends becomes a prime suspect in a hit-and-run accident. However, Nick's attentions are soon turned to a spate of bank robberies - and crime writer Amanda Young! Meanwhile, Greengrass comes into some money and decides to buy a flashy car, while Bellamy organises a talent contest for the local football team.

Guest stars: Mike Kelly, Dominic Arnold, Dorothy Tustin, Chris Hargreaves, Nicholas Blane
8"Baby Blues"Veronica HenryCatherine Morshead6 June 1993 (6 June 1993)

Marjorie Doubleday is convinced that her daughter-in-law, Rita, is neglecting her young grandson, causing a rift in the Doubleday family which gets a lot worse when the baby is abducted from outside the shop. Nick and the team are forced to investigate the possibility that Marjorie may have kidnapped her own grandson. The villagers think a gang of hippies are to blame, and the case becomes more complicated when a patient of Kate's who is unable to have children is reported missing. Meanwhile, Greengrass buys a racehorse and begins training it up, but he once again incurs the wraith of Blaketon when the horse runs wild around the village.

Guest stars: Alison Johnston, Nicholas Gleaves, Anne Reid, Kitty Aldridge
9"Wall of Silence"Jane HollowoodTerry Marcel13 June 1993 (13 June 1993)

A series of break-ins across Aidensfield is the last thing Blaketon wants, especially while the chief constable is staying at Ashfordly Hall. Things get worse when the crime-spree hits the Ashfordly estate, leaving Nick caught in the middle of a feud between Lord Ashfordly and his former gamekeeper. Meanwhile, Kate discovers Susan Rawling is having an illegal abortion, and tries to convince her of the dangers that she may face. Susan ignores her advice and resorts to stealing from Greengrass to pay for it. However, when Susan is rushed to hospital, Kate makes a sickening discovery about the paternity of Susan's baby, leaving her questioning whether abortion may be the best option.

Guest stars: Barbara Keogh, Dicken Ashworth, Hugo Speer, John Simm, Mike Kelly
10"Missing"Adele RoseTerry Marcel20 June 1993 (20 June 1993)

The fair is visiting Aidensfield and caravan site owner Edna Plummer uses it as a meeting place for her criminal brother, who receives some stolen paintings that have been transported from Holland, and one of the paintings falls into the hands of Greengrass, who attempts to get himself out of trouble by offloading them to Dr Ferrenby. However, Ferrenby forces him to tell Nick what is going on, and the unlikely pair join forces to nail Edna and her smuggler associates. Meanwhile, Kate is put in a difficult predicament when one of her patients tells her that her son may be connected to the disappearance of two children.

Guest stars: Rowan Spinks, Greg Baines, Shane Huston, Catherine Brown, Jane Downs

Series 3 (1993)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate
1"Speed Kills"David MartinTerry Marcel3 October 1993 (3 October 1993)

When a stash of drugs are stolen from the surgery and Ferrenby is left critically injured, Nick fears drug problems are at an increase in Aidensfield when one of Gina's friends suffers an overdose, and the case unexpectedly reunites Blaketon with his estranged son. Meanwhile, Kate is horrified to discover a foreign drug is responsible for a women's spate of miscarriages, whilst Greengrass is not happy when his pink Chrysler Imperial is stolen.

Guest stars: Michael McNally, Diana Whitley, Dean Gatiss and Stephen Bird.
2"Riders of the Storm"Brian FinchTim Dowd10 October 1993 (10 October 1993)

Blaketon asks Nick to keep an eye on Stevie Walsh, who has recently been released from prison after serving ten years for armed robbery. Stevie is the least of their troubles when a blizzard causes a train to crash, leaving many of its passengers injured and trapped, including Gina's brother, Ferrenby - and Stevie himself. As Nick rallies the locals on a rescue mission in the raging thunderstorm, Stevie elopes, and after discovering his wife is pregnant by another man, he goes looking for revenge, leaving Kate in the midst of a violent confrontation with the added pressure of delivering a baby. Elsewhere, Greengrass fears the worst when his beloved dog Alfred goes missing.

Guest stars: Peter Guinness, Sheila Grier, Stephen Graham, Malcolm Raeburn, Dennis McIntosh
3"Dead Ringer"Johnny ByrneTim Dowd17 October 1993 (17 October 1993)

Bellamy becomes implicated in a robbery on a pawn brokers after neglecting his duty in pursuit of romance, presenting Nick with a moral dilemma when he joins forces with Bellamy's new girlfriend to fear the constable's name. Meanwhile, Greengrass gets involved in a betting scam with a ruthless businessman involving greyhounds.

Guest stars: Freddie Jones, Elizabeth Banks, John Gully, Philip Martin Brown.
4"Going Home"Johnny ByrneBob Mahoney24 October 1993 (24 October 1993)

Nick is left questioning who the real villain is when a disgruntled German arrives in Aidensfield and begins a campaign of terror against a local landowner desperate to forget his murky past. Meanwhile, village life looks set to change forever when Ferrenby dies whilst fishing, whilst Greengrass helps an Irishman organise a bare-fist fight, keeping Blaketon and his boys on their toes.

Final Appearance of Frank Middlemass as Dr Alec Ferrenby

Guest stars: Mark Moraghan, Clive Swift, Jack McKenzie, Harold Innocent, Anna Cropper, Robert Hands, T. P. McKenna.
5"A Chilly Reception"Eric WendellCatherine Morshead31 October 1993 (31 October 1993)

A young women's wedding suffers a series of setbacks shortly after she stumbles across the corpse of her ex-boyfriend's mother, leaving Blaketon convinced her ex, a man who finds it hard to let go, is responsible. At the wedding, the church is sabotaged, threatening the lives of all inside. Meanwhile, Kate receives a visit from her aunt Eileen and discovers she has inherited money from her uncle. Uncharacteristically hostile, she refuses to take it, arousing Nick suspicions as to what his wife could be hiding. Elsewhere, an old friend of Greengrass' sells him stolen sea food which leads to an outbreak of food poisoning in Aidensfield.

First Appearance of Anne Stallybrass as Aunt Eileen.

Guest stars: Daniel Craig, Jane Jarmon, George A. Cooper, Edward Clayton, Don Crann.
6"The Frighteners"Brian FinchAlan Grint7 November 1993 (7 November 1993)

Kate is concerned for an elderly patient who begins receiving threatening phone calls and reports that someone is lurking outside her house at night. Nick suspects a pompous landowner who is desperate to get his hands on her cottage, whilst Blaketon is certain her ruthless, money-driven son-in-law is their man. Meanwhile, Greengrass takes the law into his own hands when he is nearly killed by a farmer while walking his dog on the moors, whilst Ventress strikes up a bond with a kitten and hides it at the police station.

Guest stars: Susan Jameson, Dora Bryan, Peter Gilmore.
7"Father's Day"Brian FinchTerry Marcel14 November 1993 (14 November 1993)

Blaketon is forced to face his biggest mistakes when his son comes under suspicion of assaulting a drug-dealing DJ and his bitter ex-wife shows up in Aidensfield to protect their son, whilst Nick begins his own "war against drugs". Meanwhile, Greengrass joins forces with local scoundrel Betty Such and her villainous son to recover her late husband's loot from his coffin. However, Greengrass underestimates the lengths the Such family will go to in their quest for wealth, leading to danger for one of Ashfordly's finest and money troubles for the Aidensfield Arms.

Guest stars: Sue Holderness, Dean Gatiss, Freddie Garrity, Belinda Chapman, Daniel Green, Nicholas Blane, Julie T. Wallace
8"Endangered Species"Michael RussellTim Dowd21 November 1993 (21 November 1993)

Blaketon and Nick go after a criminal who thinks he's untouchable when a dim-witted local lad called David Stockwell reports an illegal badger digging ring in the woods and his mother is involved in a hit-and-run accident. Meanwhile, Greengrass' past cons against local shareholders serves as the source of aggravation when he and George buy shares in a racehorse. Elsewhere, Ventress is revising for his Sergeant's exam, and uses it as an excuse to get out of police work.

First Appearance of David Lonsdale as David Stockwell

Guest stars: Rosalie Crutchley, Mike Kelly, Bill Dean, William Ilkley.
9"An American in Aidensfield"Peter PalliserCatherine Morshead28 November 1993 (28 November 1993)

An American motorcyclist called Charlie Dameron arrives in Aidensfield and causes friction in the village when prejudice against outsiders is stirred up once again. One resident most hostile to Charlie - is a Korean war veteran called Lasik. Meanwhile, Greengrass buys a couple of classic English motorbikes and hopes to make a quick deal. Elsewhere, Gina is tempted to a much more adventurous life away from rural Yorkshire when she begins a romance with Charlie. Will she leave George and Aidensfield behind in pursuit of her dreams?

Guest stars: Bradley Lavelle, Frances Cox, Ben Murphy, Ken Farrington.
10"Bringing It All Back Home"Michael RussellBob Mahoney5 December 1993 (5 December 1993)

The tyrannical inspector Crossley arrives in Aidensfield and is not impressed when he discovers Nick and Kate are using the police house as a surgery, and Blaketon has taken leave to spend time with his son Graham before his trial. As Crossley introduces a new regime at Ashfordly station, the villagers head off to Whitby, where Gina secures a singing gig. However, tragedy strikes when Nick tries to help a lost little girl find her father. Meanwhile, Kate is left panicked about her future when Crossley demands that she closes the surgery at the house. Luckily, she receives a job offer from Dr James Radcliff - in Whitby. Elsewhere, two shady officers from the Inland Revenue show up in the village to seek payments for old debts from Greengrass, and if that wasn't enough for the scoundrel to worry about, his health suddenly takes a turn for the worst.

Guest stars: Siobhan Finneran, Mike Kelly, Dean Gatiss, Sue Holderness, Reginald Stuart, Susan Cookson, Gemma Phoenix, David McKail.

Series 4 (1994)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate
1"Wild Thing"Michael RussellKen Horn4 September 1994 (4 September 1994)

The team look into a spate of savage sheep killings, and with Crossley taking every opportunity to discredit the Ashfordly police, Blaketon wants everyone pulling their weight. Nick is faced with a tough predicament when he learns Greengrass's beloved dog, Alfred, may be responsible. Greengrass is devastated when the dog is ordered to be put down, and plots to rescue him from the police station. However, Greengrass must first tackle his growing debt troubles with the Inland Revenue. Meanwhile, Kate begins her new job with Dr Radcliffe in Whitby, but she soon discovers a rival practice is poaching their patients and suspects their receptionist is a mole.

Guest stars: Gordon Duffy, Billy Hartman, Sally Walsh, Julia Lane, Rowan Spinks.
2"Witch Hunt"Brian FinchCatherine Morshead11 September 1994 (11 September 1994)

Nick is caught up in a deadly feud between a deceased locals live-in-friend and her relatives when three children supposedly see a witch vandalizing a church. When the feud uncovers a shocking secret, the team take on a murder enquiry. Blaketon is far from impressed with Crossley's harsh methods on the case and hatches a plan to get rid of him. Meanwhile, Ventress feigns an arm injury to get revenge on Bellamy when he calls him unfit.

Final Appearance of Russell Boulter as Inspector Crossley and First Appearance of Karen Meagher as Inspector Murchison.

Guest stars: Ashley Thornton, Tom Walker, Hayley Elliott, Amanda Elwes.
3"Mid Day Sun"Jonathan CritchelyBaz Taylor18 September 1994 (18 September 1994)

A former soldier and his family cause panic when they visit Aidensfield and lose their rabid-riddled dog, putting the life of the local garage owner on the line. Meanwhile, disaster strikes when Ventress takes a new police car for a drive - and crashes it into Claude Greengrass' lorry.

Guest stars: John Middleton, Robert Whelan, Julia Lane, Richard Heffer, Ray Ashcroft, Gary Catlin, Simon Ashley.
4"Turn of the Tide"Johnny ByrneTim Dowd25 September 1994 (25 September 1994)

Ventress and Nick are sent undercover by Whitby CID to entrap the ring-leader of a gang of smugglers. Nick tries to gain the trust of a young father whose newfound responsibilities have forced him into a life of crime. However, their new enemy proves to be a tough opponent, and the officers soon find themselves in peril. Meanwhile, Kate fears a young girl is being pressured into having an abortion by her boyfriend and refuses her request, leading to big consequences for both women when she tries to perform the operation herself. Elsewhere, Blaketon fills in as the Aidensfield bobby while Nick is away, and attempts to thwart Greengrass' latest scheme of selling Venison to the locals.

Guest stars: Tim Healy, Rod Arthur, John Higgins, Tony Caunter, Julia Lane, Richard Leaf.
5"Love Child"Brian FinchKen Horn2 October 1994 (2 October 1994)

The Ashfordly team investigate a robbery at the Ashfordly council office, and Nick discovers an adoption file concerning a 3-year-old boy has been stolen, and soon after, the child is abducted. Blaketon immediately suspects his birth mother, and his theory is confirmed when she goes missing. However, Kate makes an alarming discovery that turns the case upside down and leaves the officers un-prepared for the events that follow. Meanwhile, Greengrass causes all manner of trouble for the locals when he takes revenge on Lord Ashfordly's new gamekeeper for interfering in his pigeon racing society.

Guest stars: Andrew Lancel, Roger Walker, Romy Baskerville, Valerie Blake.
6"Nice Girls Don't"Jane HollowoodBaz Taylor9 October 1994 (9 October 1994)

When Gina is the victim of an attempted rape on her way home from a rugby match, she is horrified by some villager's reactions, whilst Bellamy finds himself forced to fight for his life when evidence puts him under suspicion - until another member of the force is placed in Nick's limelight. Meanwhile, Greengrass is conned into buying stolen pigs, which he accidentally lets loose in the Aidensfield Arms.

Guest stars: Douglas McFerran, Tim Barker, Dorothy Atkinson, Eric Allan, Chris Jury.
7"Trouble in Mind"Johnny ByrneTim Dowd16 October 1994 (16 October 1994)

Nick, George and the Ashfordly team become caught in a case of theft, fraud and bigamy when a villager who abandoned his family 7 years previously makes returns claiming to have no memory of his life after Aidensfield. Meanwhile, Greengrass is targeted by a money-driven criminal in a series of attacks when he refuses to torch a shop in an insurance scam, forcing him to ask police for help when his beloved further Alfred is kidnapped.

Guest stars: Thomas Wheatley, Barry Jackson, Ted Richards, Brian Baines.
8"Fair Game"Veronica HenryMatthew Evans23 October 1994 (23 October 1994)

Nick is called in to investigate the, supposedly accidental, death of a horserider called Joe Richards when the pathologist report gives evidence of drugs in his blood stream. He discovers Joe's wife Susannah isn't quite the grieving widow. Could she be responsible? And is there a connection between Joe's death and the death of a petty thief? Meanwhile, Blaketon and Ventress seize the opportunity to teach Greengrass a lesson when he takes over a deceased villager's cock-fighting enterprise.

Guest stars: Jenny Agutter, Mark Burns.
9"Red Herrings"Michael RussellKen Horn30 October 1994 (30 October 1994)

When a Russian ship docks in Whitby, Nick and Kate meet a sailor demanding political asylum and claiming he had to fight for his life to get into Britain. When he goes missing, it leads Blaketon and his men into a case that sees them forging an alliance with the Secret Service. Meanwhile, Greengrass' poaching leads him into a chance encounter with an unlikely partner in crime.

Guest stars: Martine Brown, Philip Stone, Ferdi Moroz, Brian Hogg.
10"Arms and the Man"Jonathan CritchelyTim Dowd6 November 1994 (6 November 1994)

Blaketon and his team struggle to keep control when hooligans break into a war veteran's house, steal his stash of illegal weapons and sell them to the local troublemakers, but Nick discovers there's more at stake than anticipated when a bag of explosives go missing. Meanwhile, Kate's strange behaviour doesn't go unnoticed by her new boss, forcing her to make a shock confession.

Guest stars: David McCallum, Anthony Lewis, Bobby Knott, Lesley Nicol.
11"Treading Carefully"Lizzie MickeryCatherine Morshead13 November 1994 (13 November 1994)

Nick and Kate's marriage is on the rocks as they continue to drift apart now that Kate has got a job in Whitby. Kate hasn't told Nick about her pregnancy, and with their marriage in crisis, she questions whether a baby is right for them, and she begins neglecting her patients. As Kate seeks comfort in Dr Radcliffe, Nick decides to take his mind off his marriage troubles by investigating a spate of roof thefts. He discovers Greengrass has been selling lead and suspects the old rogue is in league with three corrupt soldiers.

Guest stars: Gordon Wharmby, Lucy Robinson, Danny Cunningham, Neil Stuke.
12"Bad Blood"Steve TraffordMatthew Evans20 November 1994 (20 November 1994)

When a local couple return to find their farm in disarray, Nick and Kate are caught in the middle of a feud between the Jacobs brothers in the wake of their father's death when Kate goes beyond her duty of care to help a pregnant patient. Meanwhile, Gina is delighted when her old flame Billy is released from prison and joins her at the pub to escape bad habits. However, he finds the straight and narrow isn't as easy as he thought when he becomes mixed in a dodgy deal with Greengrass involving stolen record players, whilst Blaketon orders a full clean-up of the streets.

Guest stars: Garry Cooper, David Schofield, Rita May, Alan Stocks.
13"Assault and Battery"Freda KelsallTim Dowd27 November 1994 (27 November 1994)

Nick is convinced something ghastly is afoot when an animal rights attack on a battery farm results in the accidental death of the owner. Meanwhile, Bellamy falls for a beautiful guest at the Aidensfield Arms and tries to impress her by showing her the wonders of Yorkshire, with disastrous consequences. Elsewhere, Greengrass goes into the free range egg business, whilst Kate's new nursery finds itself under inspection.

Hurst stars: Stuart Richman, Karl Haynes, Cathy Underwood.
14"Lost and Found"Johnny ByrnesKen Horn11 December 1994 (11 December 1994)

Howard Franklin arrives in Aidensfield to scatter his late wife's ashes. However, his mother-in-law blames Howard for the separation of her family and the death of her two sons in World War 1, and sets out on a path of self-destruction in a vindictive quest to make Howard's life a misery, causing trouble for Ashfordly's officers. Meanwhile, Nick gets involved with a security alert at the village fête, whilst Greengrass enters Alfred into the Lurcher Challenge Cup.

Guest stars: Thora Hird, Phil Atkinson, Tony Barton, Shahid Malik, Jack Watling, Frank Finlay, Antony Booth.
15"A Bird in the Hand"Jonathan CritchelyMatthew Evans18 December 1994 (18 December 1994)

Nick and Kate make an alarming discovery about one of their friends when they attempt to track down the relatives of a frail farmer who is being forced to give up his rundown farm after its products land a villager in grave danger. Meanwhile, Greengrass and Gina try to track down the long-lost brother of a rich Australian who is staying at the Aidensfield Arms because he is offering a reward.

Guest stars: John Bowler, Bill Stewart, Alan Rothwell, Richard Ridings, Diane Adderley

Christmas Special (1994)

No. Title Written by Directed by Airdate
1994 Christmas Special"A Winter's Tale"Brian FinchTim Dowd25 December 1994 (25 December 1994)

It's Christmas in Aidensfield, and Nick meets two children who have turned to crime to make their ill brother's wish come true. Meanwhile, Ventress and Bellamy attempt to give Blaketon a Christmas to remember by reuniting him with his estranged son. Elsewhere, Kate persuades Greengrass to play Father Christmas for the Christmas concert, but he has bigger worries when he becomes the prime suspect in a spate of Christmas tree thefts.

Guest stars: Bruce Jones, Rosy Clayton, Eli Woods, Dean Gatiss, Richard Cadman, Lorraine Peters, Mary Hanson, Sam Townend, Stacey Heywood, Twiggy.

Series 5 (1995)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate
1"Wishing Well"Johnny ByrneAlister Halum3 September 1995 (3 September 1995)

When the village dance is turned into a riot by a gang of rockers from Whitby, it has big consequences in both Aidensfield and Whitby when the Ashfordly officers stumble across incriminating evidence that leads to the re-opening of an unsolved robbery case and lands Greengrass in the cells. Meanwhile, new district nurse, Maggie Bolton, investigates the cause of Kate's deteriorating health.

First Appearance of Kazia Pelka as Maggie Bolton

Guest stars: Noel Dyson, Judy Brooke, Adam Sunderland.

Note: There was a voiceover dedication to Noel Dyson over the end credits, who died in June 1995.
2"Expectations"Lizzie MickeryTim Dowd10 September 1995 (10 September 1995)

When local thug Joe Norton and his gang begin terrorizing the village, Nick and Maggie call upon Joe's father to help save his son from a life of crime. Joe proves his actions have no limits, and as Nick tries to stop him from making a big mistake, Kate goes into labour. Meanwhile, a gypsy women called Flo clashes with Greengrass when she decides to camp on his land. Flo hopes to make money out of small bouquets of lucky heather. Greengrass refuses to help and later learns a gypsy's curse does exist as he is plagued by bad luck, whilst villagers are puzzled when their washing begins to vanish.

Guest stars: William Ash, Andy Dawson, Craig Wilson, Frank J. Lauder, Patricia Hayes.
3"Thief in the Night"Jane HollowoodTim Dowd17 September 1995 (17 September 1995)

Kate is determined to return to normal, although she is dying of leukaemia. Nick's efforts to make every second count are threatening his job, especially when the locals are targeted by a petrol thief. Nick finally snaps when Blaketon issues him a warning, and it is not long before Kate's illness becomes common knowledge. The villagers pull together in their most darkest hour, as Nick's worst nightmare becomes a cruel reality. Meanwhile, Greengrass discovers the dim-witted David Stockwell is being bullied into stealing petrol by an old school friend and takes the hapless youngster under his wing.

Final Appearance of Niamh Cusack as Kate Rowan

First Appearance of Diane Langton as Ruby Rowan

Guest stars: Danny Davies, Anthony Schaeffer, David Fleeshman, Harry Beety.
4"Domestic"Brian FinchAllister Halum24 September 1995 (24 September 1995)

Following Kate's death, Nick struggles to adapt to life without his beloved spouse. With a full-time job and a newborn baby to take care of, it's the start of a painful emotional journey for Nick. His mother Ruby visits Aidensfield to care for Katie. As Nick returns to duty, the Ashfordly officers are caught in the middle of a violent feud between two neighbours that seems to revolve around a cat. Meanwhile, Greengrass' nephew proves more than a match for his mischievous uncle when the old scoundrel tries to cash in on his skills as a darts player.

Guest stars: Mark Addy, Margo Gunn, Jack Carr, Richard Derrington.
5"Vacant Possession"John StevensonTom Cotter1 October 1995 (1 October 1995)

When a young couple's new life comes crashing down, they take actions against those who have wronged them, but when their troubles coincide with a spate of cottage burglaries, it is up to Nick to protect them from village scrutiny and a case of injustice. Meanwhile, Blaketon finds himself fending off the advances of Nick's cockney mother, Kate's aunt Eileen returns to Aidensfield to help with baby Katie, whilst Greengrass tries to con newcomers into buying land that doesn't belong to him.

Guest stars: Andrew Hawkins, Chris Walker, Victoria Williams, Jackie Fielding.
6"We're All Allies Really"Peter TinniswoodNgozi Unwurah8 October 1995 (8 October 1995)

When a young German man arrives to visit his father's grave, the residents of Aidensfield are outraged as his father dropped a bomb on the village during the war, killing two popular residents. Nick and Bellamy intervene when the victim's thuggish son sets out to avenge his parents' death. Meanwhile, Greengrass disappears after taking a hen-pecked husband on a drinking binge, causing panic in the village and a search party to assemble, whilst Maggie puts the past behind her.

Guest stars: Trevor Fox, Jean Heywood, Dennis Blanch, Tony Melody.
7"Sophie's Choice"Rob GittinsDavid Innes Edwards15 October 1995 (15 October 1995)

Nick befriends Barry Jackson, a schoolteacher struggling to care for his mentally-ill wife, Sophie. When Sophie steals Barry's car and causes havoc in the village, a number of shoplifting incidents become connected to her, leaving Barry in an even more desperate position. Nick finds the case to be one of his toughest when Sophie is tragically killed in a house blaze. Meanwhile, Gina's curiosity lands her in trouble with an escaped convict when she becomes suspicious of a father and daughter staying at the pub, whilst Greengrass and George go head-to-head in a pigeon race.

Guest stars: James Quinn, Ryan Atkinson, Jessica Harris, Jack McBride, David Neilson.
8"Gone Tomorrow"Freda KelsallGraeme Harper22 October 1995 (22 October 1995)

Ventress' sanity is called into question when he reports of a UFO sighting on the moors during a thunderstorm, leaving Nick with the task of fighting for the veteran's future in the force and to play peacemaker between two feuding neighbour's. Meanwhile, Greengrass is delighted to win a holiday cruise, until a trip to Whitby reveals he suffers from sea-sickness. However, he quickly spots a way to make money by selling the tickets to a businessman planning to his escape with his mistress, whilst Eileen learns a valuable lesson when her charity collection is stolen.

Guest stars: Paul Simpson, Stephen Churchett, Mary Cunningham, Angela Crow, Antony Carrick.
9"Toss Up"James RobsonDavid Innes Edwards29 October 1995 (29 October 1995)

The team are on the trail of burglar, nicknamed "Bero Man", who has been terrorizing the village for weeks. Nick is puzzled by Bero Man's trademark - making a sponge cake before he raids a house! As Nick and the team turn their attentions to a new hit in the village, Maggie is placed in danger as the burglar strikes again. Meanwhile, Greengrass unwittingly puts two teenagers in danger when he befriends a Bob Dylan look-a-like, who becomes a big hit with the youngsters in the village, especially with Gina.

Guest stars: Sally Adams, Jane Hazlegrove, Michelle Hardwick, Maggie Lane, Lori Wells, Brian Hibbard.
10"It's All in the Game"Ron RoseTom Cotter5 November 1995 (5 November 1995)

Nick agrees to work on loan with CID and is paired with his old flame Jill to bring down a local gangster who has recently opened a new nightclub in Whitby. The pair go undercover as a couple at the club, but things take a dangerous turn when their cover is blown and Jill is kidnapped. Meanwhile, Greengrass befriends Billy Black and the pair plan to make a fortune at the Ripton races, whilst baby Katie is christened.

Guest stars: Richard Whitaker, Clara Salaman, Terence Skelton, Dean Williams, John Woodvine.
11"Vigilante"Brian FinchGraeme Harper12 November 1995 (12 November 1995)

Nick is reunited with the troublesome Tinniswood family when an elderly widow plots to avenge her husband's death after he dies of a heart attack whilst fighting with an intruder. Meanwhile, Blaketon and Greengrass are united in their animosity towards a pompous special constable assigned to assist Nick in Aidensfield when he takes his superiority too far when it comes to the annual village fair.

Guest stars: Emily Aston, Ralf Little, Una Stubbs, Tony Capstick, Melanie Kilburn.
12"Unfinished Business"Jane HollowoodTom Cotter19 November 1995 (19 November 1995)

While working on Ventress's new house, Greengrass and David uncover an unexploded bomb from WWII, and worse still, Greengrass is trapped beside it. As the whole of Aidensfield is evacuated and the army descend on the village, an emotional Greengrass makes a shock confession to Ventress about his past, and Nick's search for a missing boy leads to the discovery of a dead body in a Railway station master's house.

Guest stars: Polly Hemingway, Kelvin Fletcher, Michael Bray, Dave King.
13"Saint Columba's Treasure"Jonathan CritchelyGerry Mill26 November 1995 (26 November 1995)

When a local professor is found dead, rumours begin to spread about his hidden treasure. Greengrass' quest to locate it results in him and Blaketon becoming trapped underground beneath a local abbey, forcing the arch-enemies to work together in order to escape, whilst Nick goes on the trail of a mysterious American women. Meanwhile, local undertaker Bernie Scripps and his new assistant come under suspicion when Bellamy investigates a spate of burglaries at the homes of recently deceased villagers.

First Appearance of Peter Benson as Bernie Scripps

Guest stars: Peter Diamond, Mary Reeve, Rodney Litchfield, Devon Scott.
14"Sitting off the Dock of the Bay"Rob GittinsJohn Darnell3 December 1995 (3 December 1995)

When a pirate radio station called "Radio North" begins broadcasting in Aidensfield, Nick locks horns with Joe Norton's gang once again as the team tackle a case of drug smuggling. However, Joe Norton is a changed man, and when he is tragically killed at the hands of his old gang, Nick cannot help blaming himself and goes undercover as a DJ in Whitby alongside Maggie's brother to bring the gang down. Meanwhile, George, Gina and Blaketon are far from happy when Greengrass begins making homemade whiskey and drives away all the pub's customers.

Guest stars: Sarah Wills, Paul Gabriel, Brian Southwood, William Ash, Valentine Pelka.
15"Blood Sport"Brian FinchGerry Mill10 December 1995 (10 December 1995)

The lives of everyone in Aidensfield are placed in great danger when Nick and Maggie try to help a strange newcomer who refuses to take actions when his son falls ill, and whilst trying to deal with the repercussions, Nick finds his attentions drifting slightly when a schoolteacher catches his eye. Meanwhile, Blaketon is delighted when he is appointed as president of the rugby club, but his joy is short-lived when one of the players hires Greengrass as his manager.

First Appearance of Juliette Gruber as Jo Weston.

Guest stars: James Marcus, Vicky Johnson, Anna Jaskolka, Tony Monroe.

Series 6 (1996)

.

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate
1"Kids"Brian FinchTim Dowd1 September 1996 (1 September 1996)

A local villain is sent to prison for attacking Nick, Ventress and Bellamy in the pub, but escapes en route to prison shortly before his wife is viciously attacked. Whilst Blaketon believes it's an open and shut case, Nick thinks otherwise after witnessing an alteration at court. Meanwhile, Greengrass becomes a lollipop man and is accused of stealing money from a school, whilst George faces a life-changing choice when Lord Ashfordly raises the rent on the Aidensfield Arms.

Guest cast: Julie Graham, Ian Michie, Sean Scanlan, Maureen Lunt, Mary Healey
2"Old Colonials"Ron RoseKen Horn8 September 1996 (8 September 1996)

Nick and Jo's date is cut short when Nick is called to investigate a robbery at Ashfordly Hall, with the most likely suspect being a stables owner desperately trying to save his failing business, whilst Jo gets on the wrong side of Lord Ashfordly's latest gamekeeper when she accidentally leads a group of schoolchildren across his Lordships land. Meanwhile, Greengrass begins an import business selling American beer with his nephew and his American friend, a former US army soldier who arouses Blaketon's suspicions, whilst George considers closing the Aidensfield Arms as his financial crisis continues.

Guest cast: David Williams, Mark Addy, Rosie Chambers, Victoria Williams, Tim Woodward
3"Forget Me Not"Jane HollowoodJames Hazeldine15 September 1996 (15 September 1996)

Nick and the team investigate the kidnapping of a man who has been receiving nuisance phone calls and they are soon drawn into a web of secrets and lies surrounding his next-door neighbour, a dead little girl, a bogus doctor and a vengeful father. Meanwhile, George attempts to boost trade at the Aidensfield Arms by hiring Gina's latest boyfriend as a chef, whilst Greengrass becomes wary of a bird watcher.

Guest cast: David Bamber, Simon Day, Arthur Kelly, John Biggins
4"A Long Shot"David LaneTim Dowd22 September 1996 (22 September 1996)

Nick is put in a compromising position when Jo makes the rash assumption that an aspiring young cricketer who is playing truant from school is being abused by his father, causing the youngster to run away. Meanwhile, Greengrass and a stables owner "borrow" Lord Ashfordly's horse in another money-making scheme, whilst Ventress tries to hide his gambling debts from a suspicious Blaketon, and Aunt Eileen begins work as a chef at the Aidensfield Arms.

Guest cast: Christopher Maffei, Mark Carmel, Lorraine Peters, Kenneth Cranham, Mary Healey
5"Something of Value"Johnny ByrneGwennan Sega29 September 1996 (29 September 1996)

Ventress' gambling debts spiral out of control and tempt him into corruption when his debtor becomes the prime suspect for a robbery at a brewery and asks the veteran cop to become his "man on the inside". Meanwhile, Lord Ashfordly and Blaketon turn the tables on Greengrass when he is caught poaching by forcing him to become the estate's new gamekeeper. A job he despises, until he stumbles across a disused building filled with boxes of wine.

Guest cast: Andrew Milner, Kenneth Cranham, Alan Partington, Alan Hulse
6"Frail Mortality"Keith TempleMichael Cocker6 October 1996 (6 October 1996)

Maggie becomes the prime suspect for a hit and run accident on a dying patient's secret lover. Nick fears the culprit is much closer to home when incriminating evidence goes missing. However, he soon discovers the doomed couple may not be as innocent as they seem. Meanwhile, Greengrass and Bernie Scripps, the local undertaker, buy a rare samovar from a family of Russian Gypsies, whilst Nick begins his sergeant's exam, while also planning a romantic break for him and Jo.

Guest cast: Michael Jayston, Gillian Kearney, Gideon Turner, Geoffrey Wilkinson, Mary Healey
7"Snapped"Peter GibbsGerry Mill13 October 1996 (13 October 1996)

Blaketon finds himself acting as negotiator when Nick and a hotel manager are held at gunpoint by a disgruntled employee suspected of attempted arson. The situation proves costly for Nick when his relationship with Jo runs into trouble. Meanwhile, a fashion photographer and two models arrive in Aidensfield, giving Gina a chance to shine and presenting Greengrass with yet another money-making scheme.

Guest cast: Keeley Hawes, Mark Arden, Sean McKenzie, Bill Fellows
8"Catch Us If You Can"Brian FinchTim Dowd20 October 1996 (20 October 1996)

Nick goes undercover at a musical company in Whitby when Greengrass' new business of selling jukeboxes results in violence spilling out at the Aidensfield Arms when the pub and all his customers are targeted by a gang of rockers. Meanwhile, Gina saves the day for Ventress when he is conned by an entertainment company whom he hired for his daughter's wedding, whilst Maggie tries to being Nick and Jo back together after their break-up.

Guest cast: Roger Lloyd-Pack, Mitch Barber, Jim Marsh, Chris Sanders, Jane How
9"Giving the Game Away"Guy MeredithKen Horn27 October 1996 (27 October 1996)

When a farmer is assaulted, Nick is forced to investigate the possibility that one of his oldest friends from London may be responsible, who also happens to be a reformed criminal. Meanwhile, Aidensfield is hosting a cricket match against Whitby, and as usual, Greengrass is taking bets on the outcome of the game, but he's not the only one. Elsewhere, Nick's mother Ruby returns to Aidensfield and tries to rekindle her brief romance with Blaketon, much to his dismay!

Guest cast: Gordon Duffy, Roger Bingham, Harry Beety, Shaun Parkes, Leslie Schofield
10"The Championship"Jane HollowoodGerry Mill3 November 1996 (3 November 1996)

It's the annual championship between Aidensfield and Holinsby. The match is delayed when the players and the fans, including Bellamy, Greengrass and Bernie, are involved in a bus crash, and to make matters worse, Nick finds himself dealing with the fallout of a scandalous affair between a player and the captain's wife. Meanwhile, Ruby is determined to reunite an estranged Nick and Jo. However, just when she has succeeded, a visit to Jo's parents threatens to tear the couple apart once again. Ruby also offers her services at the Aidensfield Arms, resulting in conflict between her and Gina.

Guest cast: Fiona Bruce, Jacqueline Naylor, Norman Rossington, Bryn Ellis, Wanda Ventham
11"Who Needs Enemies?"Brian FinchGraham Moore10 November 1996 (10 November 1996)

A new arrival and the possibility of a merger heralds big changes for the Ashfordly station as Blaketon is replaced by Inspector Barry. However, the team must adapt to change as they attempt to track down a mysterious man in a Jaguar, who is attacking local youngsters, whilst Blaketon ponders retirement when he receives a tempting job offer at a security firm. Meanwhile, Greengrass ends up in hospital after agreeing to put a bet on for a friend and decides to set up home on the hospital ward as danger awaits him on the outside.

Guest cast: Mark Whiteley, Gordon Alcock, Angela Catherall, Adam Musson, Stephen Yardley, Paul Alexander, Ian Thompson
12"Thanks to Alfred"Rob GittinsGraham Wetherell17 November 1996 (17 November 1996)

Nick finds discrepancies and inconsistencies in the case when a man confesses to killing his wife who died shortly after ending their marriage. Meanwhile, Greengrass persuades a famous wrestler called the Masked Marvel to visit Aidensfield for a competition. However, Alfred injures the wrestler and he is unable to fight. At a loss, Greengrass begins recruiting villagers and training them to become as good as the Marvel, but the Marvel refuses to go down without a fight and recruits Gina and Ventress to help him get revenge on a rival wrestler, whilst Blaketon fights for the future of Ashfordly station as his superiors want to close it.

Guest cast: Pat Roach, Benedict Sandiford, Adam Fogarty, Rebecca Fenwick
13"Obsessions"Peter GibbsTom Cotter1 December 1996 (1 December 1996)

Nick comes to an unstable women's rescue when she drunkenly burns down her house after splitting up with her boyfriend. Nick's heroic act has big consequences for him and everyone he holds dear when she falls in love and becomes obsessed with him, and when he rejects her love, she vengefully sets out to ruin his life. Meanwhile, Greengrass enters the tourist business by turning his house into a B&B and providing his guests with a tour of Yorkshire, but his first guests are a bickering couple who draw him into their domestic issues, with dangerous consequences.

Guest cast: Alison Lloyd, Tom Entwhistle, Andrew Westfield, Alison Fielding
14"The Best Laid Plans"Freda KelsallFreda Kelsall8 December 1996 (8 December 1996)

As he investigates a number of post office robberies, Nick's narrow-minded attitude towards an old enemy puts her in danger when her ex-cellmate escapes from prison and resorts to drastic lengths with her villainous boyfriend to corrupt the reformed criminal. Meanwhile, Gina is swept off her feet by a handsome Irishman who asks her to help him set up a bar in Spain, whilst Greengrass and David buy a Georgian chest after hearing that its last owner hid his valuable war medals inside it.

Guest cast: Seamus Gubbins, Jenny Agutter, Rosemary Martin, Robin Bowerman
15"Bygones Be Bygones"Peter GibbsGerry Mill15 December 1996 (15 December 1996)

A financial advisor called Nigel Wheeler arrives in Aidensfield and tries to sell the villagers insurance. Nick is sceptical, and when Jo's father becomes involved in Wheeler's business, Nick decides to do some digging into Wheeler's past. Meanwhile, Greengrass, Ventress, George, Gina and Blaketon all receive poison pen letters threatening to reveal hidden secrets from their pasts, but who sent the letters and why is a strange man stalking councillor and recently widowed Joyce Jowett?

First Appearance of Elizabeth Bennett as Joyce Jowett

Guest cast: Maggie Tagney, Phillip Rowlands, Maynard Williams, Nicola Weatherell
16"Old Friends"Ron RoseKen Horn22 December 1996 (22 December 1996)

A convict escapes while being transferred to prison and while trying to track him, the Ashfordly officers uncover a smuggling ring in Whitby. Nick goes undercover at a fish market, while Bellamy's own tactics of finding the convict results in him being taken hostage by a gang of fugitives. Elsewhere, Greengrass enters the fish trading business, Aunt Eileen is reunited with an old flame who makes a life-changing request, while Nick receives the results of his sergeant's exam.

Guest cast: Lesley Duff, Ava Hunt, Nick Wyatt, Kenneth MacDonald

Christmas Special (1996)

No. Title Written by Directed by Airdate
1996 Christmas Special"Charity Begins at Home"Jane HollowoodTom Cotter25 December 1996 (25 December 1996)

It's Christmas, and preparations are underway for the traditional nativity, with Ventress as Santa. Greengrass is busy selling geese to the locals. But when he sends David off to collect more, a snowstorm strands him, Bellamy and Ventress in the middle of nowhere and causes a bus filled with elderly people to crash. On the other side of the village, Nick and Jo have their hands full with a plane crash, a pregnant woman who goes into labour and a fugitive.

Final Appearance of Stuart Golland as George Ward

Guest cast: Bridget Hodson, Katie Ferguson, Sarah Thomas, Mary Healey, John Michie, Jack Webb

Series 7 (1997–1998)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate
1"Bad Apple"Peter GibbsKen Horn31 August 1997 (31 August 1997)

After foiling a robbery at a bus depot, Nick and Bellamy catch the robber - Keith Megson. However, Megson's shady solicitor manages to clear him of the charges and Megson goes to live - with Greengrass, but a series of burglaries soon put both Megson and Greengrass in the frame. Meanwhile, Nick and Jo are engaged, but their relationship is threatened following a visit to Jo's parents, whilst Gina takes over at the Aidensfield Arms in the absence of her uncle George.

Guest Cast: Mary Tamm, Michelle Chadwick, Mark Womack, Wanda Ventham, Ian Redford
2"Pig in the Middle"Brian FinchTom Cotter7 September 1997 (7 September 1997)

Nick investigates when the unpopular special constable Hector Cowley disappears, shortly after having a dispute with Betty Such and her son Simon. Nick and the team fear for Hector's life when Simon is spotted wearing his items and the officers are certain the Such duo have disposed of the officer, but the truth may be far more complicated. Meanwhile, Greengrass receives a visit from old flame Ellen Birley and allows her to stay with him, a decision he comes to regret when she takes over his life and invites her husband to live with them.

Guest cast: Russell Dixon, Una Stubbs, Hugh Lloyd, James Hooton
3"Small Beer"Bill LyonsGerry Mill14 September 1997 (14 September 1997)

After Sangers Telephone Service is robbed, CID once again through their weight around at the Ashfordly station as they suspect a local gang are responsible, but Blaketon is convinced worker Tony Mowbray has performed an inside job because he has a history of crime and becomes determined to crack the case before the arrogant detectives and show them that the Ashfordly station are more than capable of fighting crime. Meanwhile, Jo is concerned for one of her pupils, Dennis Cross, who hasn't attended school for days. She and Maggie pay him a home visit and are horrified to find his mother dead - and Dennis nowhere to be seen, whilst Greengrass makes a dodgy deal with a butcher, whose factory is subsequently robbed.

Guest cast: Rowena Cooper, Patrick McGuire, Paul Slack, Adam Scourfield, Frank Mills
4"Closing Ranks"Jane HollowoodTom Cotter21 September 1997 (21 September 1997)

The Ashfordly team are put under pressure to find the culprit to a spate of muggings. The only connection is that all the victims are middle-aged women who have recently visited the bank. Nick suspects two local thugs who were in the vicinity of the muggings, and Bellamy becomes emotionally involved in the case when his grandmother becomes the latest victim. Meanwhile, Greengrass competes with the Braithwaite sisters for ownership of their late father's sheep, which contains a stash of money, while Nick and Jo's relationship is once again threatened by her domineering mother when she falls ill and requires care from her daughter.

Guest cast: Martin Aylett, Paul Brennan, Charlotte Mitchell, Ruth Holden, Wanda Ventham
5"Leaving Home"David LaneKen Horn28 September 1997 (28 September 1997)

When a tobacco factory is robbed, Blaketon cannot believe his luck when it becomes apparent that Greengrass is somehow connected. Meanwhile, an ex-soldier comes to Aidensfield looking for work. However, he finds his darkest secret coming back to haunt him in the worst possible way when his daughter falls in love with the adoptive son of the B&B owners, and tragedy strikes for Jo when her mother dies.

Guest cast: Christine Tremarco, Martin Walsh, Julian Kerridge, Anthony Milner, Wanda Ventham, Martin Cochrane
6"Fool for Love"James StevensonTim Dowd5 October 1997 (5 October 1997)

Nick finds himself in the midst of a psychological battle between a psychiatric patient and a seemingly ordinary couple when he is asked to investigate when a women becomes the victim of a stalker. Meanwhile, Greengrass offers to help track down the descendants of an Australian couple called Len and Julie, but later discovers they are distant relatives of his and uses it to get rid of some unwanted stock.

Guest cast: Robin Colvill, Sarah Badel, Fiona Wass, Patrick Toomey, Michael Cochrane, Richard Franklin
7"The Family Way"Brian FinchKen Horn12 October 1997 (12 October 1997)

Nick is left to pick up the pieces when an old man resorts to shocking lengths to exact revenge on a young couple for accidentally running over his grandson, and the bobby becomes intrigued when Blaketon becomes unusually desperate to protect the youngsters. What is his sergeant hiding? Meanwhile, Greengrass is irked when his rich older brother Cyril arrives in Aidensfield to buy a cottage for his mistress. However, he spots a way to use Cyril's new Rolls Royce to make his own fortune, and chaos ensures when Cyril's wife also shows up in the village, while Jo's father moves in with Maggie to recover from his wife's death.

Guest cast: Maggie Jones, Samuel Pollen, Paddy Navin, Kate Farrah, Stratford Johns, Nicholas Ball, Tenniel Evans
8"Friendly Fire"Peter GibbsTom Cotter19 October 1997 (19 October 1997)

Nick and the Ashfordly force investigate the shooting of a farmer called Richard Ealham, who was the victim of a calculated attack during a hunting game with other farmers, and Nick is soon given reason to believe that the case is a crime of passion. Meanwhile, Greengrass is given the recipe to the famous Aidensfield bun by a senile baker. As usual, Greengrass uses the highly regarded recipe to make cash, but there's trouble brewing with the baker's sons. Elsewhere, Gina fears for her future when she discovers George is not returning to the village and is giving up his license for the Aidensfield Arms.

Guest cast: John Salthouse, Walter Sparrow, Carol Harvey, Verity Rushworth, Paul Kember, Richard Mayes
9"Sons and Lovers"Susan WilkinsGerry Mill26 October 1997 (26 October 1997)

Nick clashes with Lord Ashfordly's sister Patricia, a bitchy alcoholic who thinks the laws against drink driving do not apply to nobilities like her, causing big trouble across Aidensfield and testing Nick's patience to the limit. Meanwhile, Greengrass and the hapless David Stockwell have big plans to put Ashfordly Hall on the map by organizing a poaching party when Lord Ashfordly goes on holiday. It's a risky plan. Can Greengrass get away with it without attracting the attention of Blaketon?

Guest cast: Carol Royle, Oliver Cotton, Trevor Ray, Stephen Hackett
10"Playing with Trains"James StevensGerry Poulson2 November 1997 (2 November 1997)

Blaketon is left to ponder his future as his retirement from the force draws closer. However, he is unable to worry about the end of his career when a recently paroled criminal hatches a plan to use his son's love of trains to perform a robbery job on a fur factory where his wife works, setting in motion a chain of events that lead Nick into a dangerous chase with a train. Meanwhile, Greengrass thinks he's finally struck gold after finding some old Roman coins while working as a gardener and sets off to find more.

Guest cast: Dominic Rickhards, Jeff Hordley, James Gaddas, Marji Campi
11"What the Butler Saw"Garry LyonsTim Dowd9 November 1997 (9 November 1997)

After a gamekeeper is shot on the moor, Nick finds himself with three suspects - his disgruntled predecessor, a damaged young girl - and the butler of one of Aunt Eileen's friends. Meanwhile, Gina is nervous because she has to attend court to apply for the license of the Aidensfield Arms. The pub's new barman Steve adds to her worries by letting Greengrass organise a pool match. Elsewhere, Maggie receives a visit from a blast from the past - her estranged husband, Dr Neil Bolton.

First Appearance of David Michaels as Dr Neil Bolton

Guest cast: Sophie Sigston, Dominic Rickhards, Jenny Brown, Denton Brown, Owen Brenman
12"Affairs of the Heart"Jane HollowoodJohn Anderson16 November 1997 (16 November 1997)

It's the day of Nick and Jo's wedding, and wedding fever has struck Aidensfield, even Greengrass and Blaketon are doing their bit for the big day. Seeking peace and quiet, Nick sets off for a ride in the country before the nuptials, but disaster strikes when he comes across a dangerous domestic dispute and is left stranded in the middle of nowhere with an injured man. Can he save a life and make it down the aisle in time?

Final Appearance of Diane Langton as Ruby Rowan

Guest cast: Anne Reid, John Bardon, Robert Swann, Kim MacDonald, Phil Croft, Ian Keith
13"Peace and Quiet"Peter BarwoodTim Dowd23 November 1997 (23 November 1997)

A new PC called Mike Bradley arrives in Aidensfield and gets off to a rocky start with Blaketon, Ventress and Bellamy. A former Met officer, Mike is cocky, has an eye for the ladies and isn't initially impressed with the old-fashioned ways of Yorkshire. However, he soon discovers that, with Nick Rowan on honeymoon, the village has turned from a peaceful community into a hive of crime and chaos. Mike leaps into action when two armed robbers raid a pipeline compound and take Greengrass and Gina hostage. The stakes are high - and Ashfordly station may never be the same again.

First Appearance of Jason Durr as PC Mike Bradley

Guest cast: Robert Blythe, Eva Pope, Andrew Burt, Richard Dillane
14"Substitute"Ron RoseGerry Mill30 November 1997 (30 November 1997)

Following his heart attack, Blaketon is forced to face the fact that his police career is over. He resigns himself to it - until he discovers a troublesome family who viciously attacked a police officer years previously, are back in Aidensfield. Ventress faces up to his old foes - and is subsequently kidnapped. Can Mike and Bellamy save the veteran cop? Meanwhile, Greengrass allows a group of girl guides and their lieutenant to camp out on his land - for a reasonable price!

Guest cast: Samia Ghadie, Abigail Milner, David Kelly, Amanda Walker
15"In on the Act"Veronica HenryGerry Mill7 December 1997 (7 December 1997)

Nick receives a few shocks when he and Jo return from honeymoon to find big changes have occurred in Aidensfield: Blaketon is now retired and running the post office, Mike Bradley is the new village bobby - and he has been promoted to sergeant. In his first case as Ashfordly's leading officer, Nick hunts down a saboteur at the local fair when a showman is left seriously injured. Meanwhile, Greengrass starts a feud with the very unpopular Trevor Lammas when his beloved dog Alfred is poisoned by Trevor's rat, and Ventress, Gina and Bernie also have a score to settle with Lammas

Guest cast: Doug Fisher, Clare Beck, Anthony Dutton, Alan Meadows, Simon Slater
16"The Queen's Message"Peter GibbsJohn Anderson21 December 1997 (21 December 1997)

It's Christmas, and business is booming for TV shop owner Rex Hawkins as the residents of Aidensfield prepare to watch Her Majesty's speech. Rex clashes with many villagers over married women and fault TVs, and when he is attacked outside the Aidensfield Arms, Nick finds himself bombarded with suspects - one being Alf Ventress! Meanwhile, Greengrass accidentally smashes a collection of china that he had promised to sell to Gina. He tries to blame the postal system for the breakage in order to get compensation, with the added bonus of getting one over on Blaketon.

Guest cast: Gloria Appleton, Helen Ryan, Steve Whyment, Richard Heap, John Flanagan
17"Brainstorm"Peter BarwoodGarth Tucker4 January 1998 (4 January 1998)

Mike's career hangs in the balance when a former racing driver dies in police custody while in his care and the racers cousin accuses him of murder. Forced to suspend his officer, Nick teams up with Detective Inspector Shiner to investigate and clear his officer's name, but he is shocked when he realises Mike isn't completely innocent. Meanwhile, Greengrass and Bernie Scripps buy an ex-police car from a car auction and start up a taxi firm. Via the old radio, they tune into police frequencies and overhear events at Ashfordly station, while Aunt Eileen bids farewell to Aidensfield for a new life in France.

Final Appearance of Anne Stallybrass as Aunt Eileen

Guest cast: Charles Cartmell, Penny Capper, Matthew Marsh, Larry Waller, Douglas Bevons
18"Bad Penny"Peter BarwoodGarth Tucker11 January 1998 (11 January 1998)

Mike's past comes back to haunt him when his old flame Penny arrives claiming he is the father of her baby. To make matters a lot worse, DI Shiner warns Nick that two gangsters who Mike nailed in London have been released from prison with vengeance on their mind. Meanwhile, Greengrass falls in love with a poacher called Tessa Blundell, while Nick and Jo make big plans for the future, which could mean big changes at Ashfordly station.

Guest cast: Joe Simpson, Robert Curbishley, Kim Gillespie, Kieron Forsyth, Frances de la Tour
19"Appearances"Carolyn Sally JonesBrian Farmham18 January 1998 (18 January 1998)

A young girl ends up in hospital after a series of burglaries causes tension to boil over between her family. As the team try to deal with the fallout, Nick receives a job offer that would mean emigrating to Canada. Meanwhile, Greengrass enters the art world when he meets artist Moira Hamilton, who is making sculptors of rural decay with his old car parts and who agrees to paint a portrait of him. He and Bernie try making sculptor, but Bernie proves to be more talented than Greengrass.

Guest cast: Terrence Hardiman, Eve Matheson, Steven Hillman, Adam Waddington
20"Local Knowledge"Brian FinchGerry Mill25 January 1998 (25 January 1998)

It's the end of an era as Nick Rowan and his family prepare to leave Aidensfield for a new life in Canada. Nick's final case in Ashfordly begins when a villain who Blaketon once nailed shows up in the village and recruits his daughter and son-in-law to settle old scores. Meanwhile, Greengrass' latest money-making scheme is holding "ghost tours" in his "haunted barn" after hearing a story in the pub, and the old rogue also finds himself a new dog, whilst Dr Bolton sets his sights on taking over Kate Rowan's old surgery as he plans to win back Maggie.

Final Appearance of Nick Berry as PC Nick Rowan and Juliette Gruber as Jo Weston

Guest cast: Jill Halfpenny, Alec Newman, Nigel Lambert, Fred Pearson, Tom Higgins, Maggie Tagney, Gareth Thomas, Katherine Stark, Shelagh Fraser
21"The Enemy Within"Susan WilkinsGarth Tucker1 February 1998 (1 February 1998)

Blaketon receives a visit from his army sergeant, Jim Ryan. It's the happiest of reunions - until Blaketon realizes Jim is losing his mind following his wife's death. As Blaketon begins unravelling long-buried secrets from his sergeant's past, an unhinged Jim targets a pair of young photographers - and Mike Bradley, leaving Blaketon with a terrible dilemma. Meanwhile, Greengrass calls on Ventress for help when he is conned into buying stolen sheep.

Guest cast: John Alderton, Paul Broughton, Sara Stephens, Nicholas Palliser
22"Unconsidered Trifles"Jonathan CritchelyGerry Mill8 February 1998 (8 February 1998)

Blaketon finds himself on the wrong side of the law when his car is stolen and involved in a hit-and-run accident. As Ventress and Bellamy try to clear their old sergeant's name, Mike is sceptical and, while investigating, he unmasks a gang of drug dealers and unearths a shocking secret of Blaketon's that may have been better left undiscovered. Meanwhile, Greengrass asks Bernie to help him restore a couple of vintage bikes so that he can sell them to a collector, but chaos ensures when the old rogue discovers where the bikes have come from.

Guest cast: Maggie Tagney, Christine Anderson, Adam Woods, Kevin Dyer, Dean Harris
23"Heroes and Villains"Peter GibbsBrian Farnham15 February 1998 (15 February 1998)

Mike, Ventress and Bellamy try to find a war hero's medals when he is burgled and hospitalised and discover a local criminal has corrupted two tearaway youngsters into doing his dirty work. Meanwhile, Greengrass is up to his old tricks at the Aidensfield Golf Club. Elsewhere, Maggie's affections for Neil are rekindled.

Guest cast: Alan Halsall, Robert Hudson, Angela Saville, Frederick Treves
24"Love Me Do"Jane HollowoodSue Dunderdale22 February 1998 (22 February 1998)

A tough new sergeant, a Welshman called Raymond Craddock, arrives to take over the Ashfordly station. He is very narrow-minded and wishes to do things strictly by the book, which pits him against Ventress and Greengrass. Under their new sergeant, Mike, Bellamy and Ventress investigate the disappearance of a teenage girl called Maureen Dodds, who vanished on the night of the Valentine's disco. Meanwhile, love is in the air for Maggie and Neil.

First Appearance of Phillip Franks as Sgt Raymond Craddock

Guest cast: Jessica Harris, Phillip Joseph, Anna Keaveney, Nina Warhurst, Sandra Hunt, Carl Procter,

Series 8 (1998-1999)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate UK viewers
(millions)[1]
1"Snake in the Grass"Jane HollowoodGerry Mill6 September 1998 (6 September 1998)11.68

Blaketon attempts to play peacemaker between two battling neighbours Clive Harris and Stuart Parsons. However, things get out of control when Stuart's family are struck with food poisoning and he blames Clive. Mike suspects otherwise when Gina falls seriously ill and recruits Dr Bolton to help him find the answer. Meanwhile, Greengrass and Bernie sell a car to a businessman called Laslo Riles. Unfortunately, Laslo is declared bankrupt before he can pay Greengrass, and in his efforts to get his money, the loveable rogue finds himself with a new companion - a snake. Elsewhere, Bellamy has accommodation troubles after his landlady kicks him out after a late-night mishap, while Gina's aunt Mary arrives in Aidensfield to help her niece run the Aidensfield Arms following George's death.

First Appearance of Arbel Jones as Aunt Mary

Guest cast: Paul Walker, Ray Blake, Judi Jones, Heather Ramsay, Brigit Forsyth, Tom Chadbon
2"Fall Out"Brian FinchGerry Poulson13 September 1998 (13 September 1998)11.24

When a Mini containing a radioactive isotope is stolen from outside the Aidensfield Arms, Mike and the team are under pressure to find it as soon as possible to stop it from falling into the wrong hands. Luckily, Mike finds the car. But the isotope has gone... Meanwhile, Greengrass is summoned by a mysterious messenger, who turns out to be his estranged brother Cyril. Unhappy to see his sibling, Greengrass soon has a change of heart when Cyril offers him partnership in a dog racing business. Elsewhere, Aunt Mary settles into life in Aidensfield, with a little help from Blaketon, while Bellamy's love life is nom-existent now that he has moved in with his gran, and troublesome duo Trevor and Stuart are up to their old tricks in the village.

Guest cast: Andrew Knott, Alan Halsall, Stratford Johns, Nicola Bolton
3"For Better or Worse"Peter GibbsBrian Fernham20 September 1998 (20 September 1998)12.41

When a newly licensed youngster crashes his car, Mike investigates a car dealer called Kenneth Marsden after Brian's mother accuses him of selling her son a faulty car. But Mike uncovers a much more serious crime connected with Marsden. Meanwhile, Greengrass inherits racing pigeons when an old friend who owed him money dies. He ropes Bernie and Aunt Mary into forming a syndicate. However, things don't go according to plan and Greengrass soon realises he needs to brush up on his knowledge of pigeons. Elsewhere, Mike wonders what he has let himself in for when he allows Bellamy to move into the police house, whilst Maggie is torn between two men.

Guest cast: Philip Jackson, Neil Firth, Elizabeth Kelly, Graham Padden
4"Past Crimes"James StevensonBrian Fernham27 September 1998 (27 September 1998)13.52

Mike investigates strange events at Jenny and Tim McDonald's house when they are burgled and nothing is stolen: the intruders only move is setting the clocks forward. As he investigates, Mike comes face-to-face with a child killer and tries to prevent a bank robbery. Meanwhile, Greengrass discovers Bernie's nephew Barry is very talented at golf and enters him in a golf match at the Aidensfield Golf Club. However, an even bigger scheme arises when Greengrass sets his sights on becoming a shareholder in the club, much to Blaketon's fury.

Guest cast: Justine Adams, Tony Pitts, Nicholas Blane, Nick Cochrane, Ian Thompson
5"Spell Bound"Phil FordJohn Reardon4 October 1998 (4 October 1998)14.36

Unusual incidents at St Michael's Church leave the residents of Aidensfield convinced witchcraft is to blame, even Blaketon has his theories. A human skull is found in the graveyard and a local man becomes convinced he has been put under a curse. If that wasn't enough, a magistrate's daughter has fallen in love with a dark arts obsessive. Can the Ashfordly officers get to the bottom of these events? Meanwhile, Greengrass enters the beauty cosmetic business when he does a bit of gardening for beauty queen Dorothea Cliveden and she opens his eyes to the fortune made out of cosmetics. When Greengrass attempts to impress her, Bernie finds himself in a compromising position. Elsewhere, Mike hires Aunt Mary as a cleaner at the police house, leading to embarrassment for Bellamy.

Hurst cast: David Westbrook, Polly York, Carmen du Sautoy, Gregory Chisholm, Geoffrey Bayldon
6"Baby Love"Anthony ReadGerry Mill11 October 1998 (11 October 1998)14.33

When Hazel Mansfield's baby is abducted from outside the post office, Craddock believes it is connected to a break-in at a mother and baby home called Moorside Lodge, where Hazel adopted baby Peter. Craddock calls for reinforcements and Mike is tasked with tracking down Peter's biological parents. As a wide search gets underway, time is against them as Peter is seriously ill and will not survive without medication. Meanwhile, Greengrass receives a shock when David leaves his "employment" to find a full-time, paying job. Greengrass recruits mechanical whiz Gary Clarkson to help him lay out driveways with concrete. For once, David may be right when he voices his suspicions of Gary, and Greengrass may live to regret ignoring his sidekick.

Guest cast: Lee Oakes, Kate Cross, Judy Holt, Karen Harvey, Eric Deacon
7"Give a Dog a Bad Name"Peter GibbsBrian Fernham18 October 1998 (18 October 1998)14.28

Craddock is driven off the road by local vet Josh Roberts, who has developed a drinking problem following his wife's death. As Roberts is the only vet in Aidensfield, Craddock lets him off with a warning and orders Mike to keep watch on him. However, Roberts is enraged by the officer's interference and begins terrorizing the Ashfordly sergeant. Meanwhile, Greengrass opens a stall outside a country fair and leaves David to do all the work whilst he collects all the profit. But disaster strikes when the pair sell flea-infested fur rugs around the village. Elsewhere, Bellamy falls in love with Sue Driscoll, the Ashfordly station's new secretary, whilst a lost dog attaches itself to Blaketon.

First Appearance of Keeley Forsyth as Sue Driscoll

Guest cast: Martin Pearson, Heather Phoenix, Bryan Marshall
8"Hello, Goodbye"Michael JennerGarth Tucker25 October 1998 (25 October 1998)14.22

The residents of Aidensfield are divided when an Indian, Dr Deepak Rall, settles down with his family in the village and Neil considers giving him a job at the surgery. Mike intervenes when Deepak and his family become the victim of a racial attack. With many fascist villagers gathering to get rid of the family, Mike faces the tough task of identifying the culprit, whilst Craddock and Neil discover Deepak isn't who he says he is. Meanwhile, Greengrass and David buy a mobile shop and, thanks to an unfortunate incident at the cash & carry, they are left with tins of extraordinary meat. Elsewhere, Bellamy tries to impress Sue by arranging a romantic meal, even though she is obviously attracted to Mike. His plans are dashed when the evening turns into a double date with Gina and Mike, whilst Ventress gets a shock when Craddock's wife Penny shows up at the station.

Guest cast: Paul Bazely, Fred Feast, Joe Simpson, Brenda Elder
9"Pat-a-Cake"Helen SlavinJohn Reardon1 November 1998 (1 November 1998)14.64

The Ashfordly team investigate the kidnapping of a teenager called Mel Drinkwater, who was running away to Gretna Green to marry her boyfriend. Meanwhile, Greengrass and David become pet sitters. But they have their work cut out when they are left with a cat, a dog, a lama and a goat, whilst Maggie and Neil consider having a baby.

Guest cast: Pauline Turner, Frederick Warder, Elaine Donnelly, Judith Barker
10"Easy Rider"Peter BarwoodGarth Tucker8 November 1998 (8 November 1998)14.80

When a number of locals report UFO sightings on the moor, Mike and Bellamy investigate and find the dead body of cyclist Paolo Ermini. Craddock thinks uncovering the truth about the UFO sightings will catch the killer, whilst Mike looks into Paolo's womanizing past. Meanwhile, Greengrass sells a load of garden gnomes. But later discovers they are Chairman Mao's. Trying to get rid of them, he recruits a young enthusiastic librarian to help him.

Guest cast: John Tearney, Caroline Sugden, Anthony Bessick, Stephen Tomlin, Sarah Parks
11"Hot Rocks"Susan WilkinsGerry Mill15 November 1998 (15 November 1998)14.13

Lord Ashfordly's sister Patricia returns to Aidensfield. Now a recovering alcoholic, Patricia is engaged to reformed criminal Ronnie Harper. As Lord Ashfordly throws a celebration in his sisters honour, Mike has his suspicions about Ronnie when a spate of burglaries occur across the village, with all the victims being guests and close friends of his lordship. Meanwhile, Bellamy persuades Mike to throw a party at the police house in another attempt to impress Sue. He is left devastated when Sue announces she is leaving the station and, to make matters worse, Craddock evicts him from the police house, whilst Greengrass enters the world of renovation with a pair of workmen called Keith and Chas.

Guest cast: Carol Royce, John Bowe, Timothy Carlton
12"Shadows and Substances"Brian FinchTerence Daw22 November 1998 (22 November 1998)14.61

When local troublemaker Stuart Chivers is put in hospital after drinking from a decontaminated stream, Mike is convinced a local factory owner is hiding something and becomes obsessed with pursuing it, with explosive consequences for himself and a number of villagers. Meanwhile, Greengrass embarks upon his most outrageous scheme yet when Blaketon is appointed as Warning Point Officer, a task which includes protecting Aidensfield in the event of a nuclear attack. Elsewhere, Bellamy's grandmother causes a stir when she leads a protest against the number of lorries passing through Aidensfield.

Guest cast: Alan Halsall, Barry Conway, Richard Cole, Stefan Podolchuk
13"Forbidden Fruit"Neil McKayGerry Poulson29 November 1998 (29 November 1998)14.40

Mike and Bellamy attend to an attacked girl called Marion Fuller, who later dies in hospital. As the Ashfordly team are forced to work under a CID officer, Mike becomes emotionally involved in the case when he grows close to Marion's sister Rachel, forcing him to leave Aidensfield for a few days until the case is wrapped up. With the Aidensfield bobby gone, Craddock uncovers new evidence that relocates the case to Saltburn and draws Mike back to the forefront. Meanwhile, Aunt Mary and Blaketon plan a surprise French themed birthday party for Gina. Annoyed that everyone has seemingly forgotten her big day, Gina enters a competition to win a trip to Paris.

Guest cast: Emma Davies, Greg Hicks, Sarah Nixon
14"Where There's a Will"Peter GibbsGerry Poulson6 December 1998 (6 December 1998)14.35

Mike meets his match in feisty solicitor Jackie Lambert when they both become caught in the middle of a bitter battle between an old women and her nephew for ownership of a family farm. Meanwhile, Greengrass comes to Bellamy's rescue when he persuades an associate called Kenny Galloway to give Bellamy his spare room. Bellamy is relishing in his new living arrangement, until he discovers Kenny is debt-ridden to a shady businessman, who has a "fists first, talk later" policy.

First Appearance of Fiona Dolman as Jackie Lambert

Guest cast: John Challis, Ben Price, Sylvia Syms, Conrad Nelson
15"Taking Sides"Michael JennerGarth Tucker13 December 1998 (13 December 1998)14.86

Dr Neil Bolton's life is turned upside down when one of his most frequent patients accuses him of indecent assault, and even Maggie begins to question his innocence. Meanwhile, Greengrass sets up a civil war battle re-enactment after encountering a lost civil war re-enactment society. Unfortunately, he doesn't have an army to fight. Trouble arises when David attempts to solve his mentor's problem.

Guest cast: Isla Blair, Michael Jowett, Ian East
16"Echoes of the Past"Neil McKayBrian Fernham24 December 1998 (24 December 1998)10.80

The Ashfordly team investigate sinister goings-on at the houses of two very different women in Aidensfield. Could it be the work of a dead legendary servant girl who has come back to haunt her old manor? or is there a much simpler, less supernatural answer to the mystery? Meanwhile, Craddock's wife Penny is organizing a Christmas dancing competition, with Greengrass and David providing the trophy. At the dance, Blaketon and Aunt Mary steal the show, Mike and Jackie's romance blossoms, and much to Bellamy's delight, Sue Driscoll returns.

Guest cast: Sheila Burrell, Dan Seward, Roger Allam
17"Twist of Fate"Eric WendellPaul Walker10 January 1999 (10 January 1999)15.74

When an elderly woman called Mildred dies and leaves Maggie everything in her will, Mildred's son-in-law accuses her of abusing her position as a nurse and negligence, forcing Maggie to fight for her good name. When a valuable painting belonging to Mildred goes missing, Mike must determine whether it is connected to an increase in burglaries or if Mildred's family are responsible. Meanwhile, Greengrass cannot believe his luck when he meets a tramp called Seamus O'Toole, who has a talent for dreaming about winning racehorses. Never one to miss an opportunity, Greengrass invites Seamus to live with him.

Guest cast: James Greene, Marlene Sidaway, Nick Lucas, Nicky Croydon, Hilary Tones, Don Crann
18"The Angry Brigade"Peter GibbsGerry Poulson17 January 1999 (17 January 1999)16.48

Barry Dixon, an armed robber who Blaketon sent to prison 10 years previously, comes to live in Aidensfield after being released. The mysterious Ed Baxter has been hired to watch his every move, determined to find the fortune that Barry stole from an insurance company years previously. But Dixon is supposedly a reformed character and gets himself a job at Bernie Scripps garage. On the other side of Aidensfield, Neil and Maggie lead a protest against Lord Ashfordly after he closes the footpath to his estate, leaving the Ashfordly police with their hands full. Meanwhile, Greengrass takes over the late Jim Fielder's chimney sweep business. But he soon hits upon a new scheme that could bring in a lot of money - conning soon-to-be married couples into hiring him as a "lucky" wedding guest.

Guest cast: Joe Simpson, Stephen Casey, Dorian Lough, Jean Stevens, Jackie Lye
19"Fire and Ashes"Rob HeylandGerry Mills24 January 1999 (24 January 1999)15.54

Maggie discovers she is pregnant. However, her unexpected news brings back painful memories for the Bolton's as they previously lost a baby in a cot death tragedy. Fearful history could repeat itself, Maggie goes on holiday with Gina to evaluate her marriage. Back in Aidensfield, a series of arson attacks take a deadly turn when a cottage is torched with a baby trapped inside, setting in motion a tragic chain of events that rocks the residents of Aidensfield and tears one villager's life apart. Meanwhile, Greengrass buys an old railway carriage and turns it into a holiday cottage for paying tourists.

Final Appearance of David Michaels as Dr Neil Bolton

Guest cast: Ralf Little, Alan Halsall, Stefan Podolchuk, Kirsty Doyle, Kevin Foster
20"All in the Mind"Johnny ByrneBrian Fernham31 January 1999 (31 January 1999)16.02

As Aidensfield recovers from the fire that took Neil's life, Maggie takes her mind off her grief by returning to work. After speaking to an elderly patient, she discovers a local man is holding his pregnant daughter Julie against her will. When Maggie and Mike free her, Julie gives birth to a premature baby with severe breathing problems. With a fractured family looking to her for help, Maggie must also make the tough decision of whether she wants to keep her own unborn baby. Meanwhile, Ventress discovers a police impostor is causing havoc around Aidensfield using his name. Determined to catch the crook who is destroying his reputation, Ventress recruits Bellamy to set up a honey-trap. When he gets to the truth, Ventress is forced to confront a past misdemeanour. Elsewhere, Greengrass fuels Blaketon's suspicions when he enters a shady alliance with local lowlife George Seago. However, Blaketon soon spots a way to have a bit of fun when he discovers what Greengrass and Seago are up to.

Guest cast: Esther Martion, Tom Watson, Jon Strickland, Vin Welch
21"Friends Like You"Brian FinchFrank W. Smith7 February 1999 (7 February 1999)16.34

Gina's singing career is re-ignited when her latest boyfriend gets her a gig in Whitby. However, Whitby CID raid the club and find drugs in Gina's purse. Convinced she is being framed, Mike and Jackie begin investigating and come into conflict with two superior police officers. As Mike uncovers a web of secrecy that surrounds the Blue Parrot club, Gina learns that the line between allies and adversaries can be very blurred indeed. Meanwhile, Ventress falls asleep whilst on night watch. The following morning, he is shocked when he awakes on a train in Crewe. Elsewhere, arch-enemies Greengrass and Blaketon form an unlikely alliance when David is conned out of a recent windfall.

Guest cast: Phillip King, Michael Burns, John Axon, Joshua Richards
22"Old Ties"Chris ThompsonGerry Poulson14 February 1999 (14 February 1999)12.32

Mike investigates when two businessmen open up a restaurant that is targeted in a series of attacks. Meanwhile, Greengrass develops a sudden interest in archaeology, convinced Aidensfield is full of buried treasures just waiting to be discovered. Unfortunately for him, the first items unearthed prove to be human remains, leading to fears that there is a murderer at large. Elsewhere, Gina's old friend Debbie comes to stay at the Aidensfield Arms and seems to be hiding something, leaving Aunt Mary fearful that Debbie will lead Gina astray.

Guest cast: Michelle Butterly, Stewart Howson, Steven Elder, Paul McEwan
23"David Stockwell's Ghost"Jane HollowoodJohn Reardon21 February 1999 (21 February 1999)16.53

The Palmer family start a new life in Aidensfield after living in Africa for a number of years. But a new start worsens the family's dysfunctional issues: Diana and Cecil Palmer's constant battling is taking its toll on their young son Danny, who strikes up an unlikely bond with Blaketon after an incident with local bullies. Another row results in Peter running away and Diana hitting the bottle - and subsequently disappearing. The last person to see her car was David, who claims to have seen a ghost driving it. With an unstable women and a terrified child to find, the Ashfordly boys have their work cut out. Meanwhile, Greengrass isn't happy when David buys a group of pigs at an auction on his behalf, whilst Ventress begins neglecting his police work when his wife falls ill and requires an operation.

Guest cast: Elizabeth Steele, Ben Spencer, Christine Moore, Harry MacDonald, Luke McGann
24"Testament"Susan WilkinsGerry Mills28 February 1999 (28 February 1999)17.01

When a young boy is involved in a hit-and-run accident, Mike is reunited with his old London colleague Rodney Marshall whilst investigating. New evidence and witness statements put Jackie's uncle in the frame, which causes friction between her and Mike. Pitted against his girlfriend, who will go to any lengths to protect her uncle, Mike considers taking up Rodney's offer of returning to the Met and leaving his life in Aidensfield behind. Meanwhile, Greengrass, David and Bernie face many mishaps in a graveyard when they try to lay a villager to rest.

Guest cast: Richard Baglow, Jean Rimmer, Geraldine Newman, David Westbrook, Helen Cotterill, Sean Blowers

Series 9 (1999–2000)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original air date UK viewers
(in millions)[1]
1"Manoeuvres in the Dark"Peter GibbsGerry Mills26 September 1999 (26 September 1999)12.87

The Ashfordly team are on the trail of Terry Noble, an old flame of Gina's who has gone AWOL from the army after assaulting a fellow soldier. Matters get a lot worse when the soldier dies and a desperate Terry takes a hit-and-run driver hostage. Meanwhile, Greengrass plans a French gourmet evening at the Aidensfield Arms. But thanks to David's clumsiness, the evening is a disaster. Elsewhere, Blaketon comes into some money and forges a deal with Lord Ashfordly that sees big changes occur in the village, whilst Maggie introduces the locals to her newborn baby, Sam.

Guest cast: Gavin Abbott, Paul Rider, Geoffrey Chater
2"Tricks of the Trade"Johnny ByrneGerry Poulson3 October 1999 (3 October 1999)12.95

Greengrass sets out on a one-man mission when one of his oldest friends is put in the frame for a spate of burglaries at the houses of recently deceased people, forcing the old scoundrel to form an unholy alliance with Craddock to investigate and clear his friend's name. Meanwhile, Maggie comes out of maternity leave when the village is struck down with an epidemic and is forced to confront her greatest fear when her newborn son falls ill. Elsewhere, Blaketon relishes in his new role as Landlord of the Aidensfield Arms. But his plans for the pub's future rub Gina and Aunt Mary up the wrong way.

Guest cast: Olivia Jardith, Ian Burfield, Buster Reeves, Gillian Waugh, Ruth Mitchell (actor), Graham McTavish, Stan Stennett, Andrew Readman
3"Intuition"Eric DeaconFrank W. Smith10 October 1999 (10 October 1999)13.22

The Ashfordly team find themselves investigating an Agatha Christie styled mystery involving an elderly women who was found dead in a household filled with secrets and deceit. Meanwhile, Aunt Mary is reunited with an old flame who makes her a tempting offer that will mean big changes in her life. Elsewhere, Greengrass attempts to forge an alliance with two con-men who are making a fortune at villagers' expense, whilst Ventress gives up smoking to win a bet with Bellamy.

Guest cast: Ann Bell, Nicholas Moss, Steve Palfreman, Jonathan Hackett, Will Tacey, Grace Mitchell, David Beckford, Carol Kaye, Edward Hardwicke

Final appearance of Abrel Jones as Aunt Mary Ward
4"Puppet on a String"Collin ShindlerRoger Barnford17 October 1999 (17 October 1999)13.29

With Craddock away, Ventress relishes in his role as acting sergeant, leaving Bellamy and Mike longing for the return of narrow-minded Craddock. Ventress smells a rat when Tom Lowson, the biggest black marketer in the North Riding area during World War 11, returns to Aidensfield, whilst Maggie clashes with Tom's rebellious daughter over a shocking case of bullying - and illegal abortions. Meanwhile, Greengrass makes a promise to a dying friend, who wants to sell her valuable Georgian clock to afford a holiday at the hotel where she and her late husband spent their honeymoon. Unfortunately, Greengrass discovers her valuables are not of much value and must now come up with a plan to make a dying women's wish come true.

Guest cast: Sally Sheridan, Clare Kerrigan, Janet Dale, Albert Welling, Katy Landis, Leanne Burrows, Frances Cox, Glyn Grain, Chris Goulding, Rachel Leskovac, Samantha Hurst, Hugh Walters, Margaret Johnson, Ian Ralph, Jackie Knight
5"Honour Amongst Thieves"Peter GibbsJohn Reardon24 October 1999 (24 October 1999)13.77

A romantic novelist called Honor Gayle arrives in Aidensfield and begins using Mike as an inspiration for her books, which soon begins to rub the bobby up the wrong way. However, he is soon distracted when two young offenders visiting the village for labouring work go missing. Meanwhile, Blaketon goes head-to-head with Tom Drabble in the Ashfordly election. Drabble is being supported by Greengrass and a reluctant Bernie, causing fresh conflict between the arch-enemies.

Guest cast: Martin Oldfield, Ingrid Lacey, David Troughton, Stuart Callaghan, Chris Hoyle, Vincent Keane, Georgina Lamb, Brian Baines, Peter Jonfield
6"Shotgun Wedding"Peter BarwoodFrank W. Smith31 October 1999 (31 October 1999)13.71

Mike and Jackie's wedding day takes a dramatic turn when he and Bellamy work alongside CID to track down two train robbers. Meanwhile, Greengrass receives a shock when he is reunited with his eccentric sister Bella, whom he has not seen for 22 years. She immediately begins ruling the roost at his cottage, leading to him taking up residency in a caravan on the moors.

Guest cast: Judy Cornwell, Kevin O'Keefe, Guy Christiansen, Keith Bartlett, Colin Farrell, Geraldine Newman, Peter McGowan
7"Always a Copper"Michael JennerPaul Walker7 November 1999 (7 November 1999)14.59

Craddock is irked when the Chief Constable asks Blaketon to organize a Crime Prevention committee as tension boils over within the community following a number of unsolved burglaries. Blaketon tries to prove the committee's value by investigating a robbery at a brewery. However, it soon leads Mike into an encounter with a strange individual whose odd behaviour intrigues him. Meanwhile, Greengrass begins rewriting history when he takes a group of Norwegian history students on a tour of Yorkshire. But David soon gets carried away when the students take an interest in historical Viking sites. Elsewhere, a handsome Irishman called Andy Ryan checks into the Aidensfield Arms and whisks Gina off her feet!

Guest cast: Marianne Bond, James Midgley, Fred Ridgeway, John Flitcroft, Andrea Lynette-Young
8"Negative Vibes"John FlanaganRoger Barnford14 November 1999 (14 November 1999)13.22

After a suitors is raided, it has unexpected consequences for Mike's marriage when he makes a shocking discovery about Jackie whilst investigating the incident and is given reason to believe his new wife is having an affair. Meanwhile, Greengrass is saddened when his old friend Cylis dies and offers to help his wife Agnes organise the funeral. Trouble arises when Greengrass discovers Cylis donated his body to medical science without telling his loved ones. Always the optimist and trying to spare the feelings of a widow, Greengrass comes up with a masterplan to overcome this new problem, much to Bernie's dismay.

Guest cast: Andrew McCulloch, Tony Hodge, Amy Beswick, Christopher Villiers, June Barrie, Amanda Pointer
9"Kindness of Strangers"James StevensonGerry Mills21 November 1999 (21 November 1999)14.30

A senile old man is attacked in what appears to be an open-and-shut case of burglary. But Mike suspects the old man's obsession with his deceased son may have pushed his loved ones over the edge. Meanwhile, Greengrass organises the annual Aidensfield car rally and subsequently turns the rulebook upside down by agreeing to help one of the racers cheat.

Guest cast: Richard Butler, Kate Skellern, Ian McHale, Geoff Holman, JJ Feild, Miranda Raison, David Roderick, Charlotte Mitchell, Judy Flynn, Michael Simkins, Mark Lindley
10"Hollywood or Bust"Brian FinchFrank W. Smith28 November 1999 (28 November 1999)13.91

The residents of Aidensfield are buzzing with excitement when a film crew descends on Ashfordly Hall to shoot a movie, and everyone's heads is soon filled with stardom, especially Blaketon and Gina's, who allow the crew to shoot at the Aidensfield Arms. But when one of the directors has an unusual outburst after a photo is taken of him, Mike's suspicions are piqued. Meanwhile, David becomes caught in the middle of a feud between Greengrass and local farmer Nathaniel Clegghorne when he is sold a couple of Hens that are unable to lay. However, Greengrass is not the only resident who has a score to settle with Clegghorne.

Guest cast: Debbie Shore, Matthew Lewis, Lee Booth, Geoff McGivern, Mark Powley
11"Flesh and Blood"Gillian RichmondPaul Walker5 December 1999 (5 December 1999)14.23

The discovery of the skeleton of a baby in an attic reunites Bellamy with his childhood sweetheart as the Ashfordly team investigate the trials and tribulations of the fractured Lomax clan. The case leads Mike to a mental hospital, as he makes a horrifying discovery that sickens him to the core. Meanwhile, Greengrass and David begin selling wild rabbits as pets, leading them into trouble with a disgruntled pet shop owner.

Guest cast: Caroline Pegg, David Hargreaves, Richard Huw, Tara Pendergast, Caroline O'Neill, David Bowen, Sally Womersley
12"No Surrender"Neil McKayGerry Poulson12 December 1999 (12 December 1999)13.37
Mike finds himself embroiled into a secret army specialising in execution when Nathaniel Clegghorne brands a local farmer a coward for his role in World War 11, whose farm is subsequently the target of a serious case of arson. Meanwhile, David visits a fortune teller who tells him that he will meet a very special women whose name begins with "G". Greengrass brushes it off as nonsense, until a women called Gloria Evans takes a particular interest in both him and David. Elsewhere, Gina discovers that she could have a life away from Aidensfield as her romance with Andy blossoms.
13"Stag at Bay"Susan WilkinsRoger Bamford19 December 1999 (19 December 1999)14.66
As preparations get underway for the Christmas Concert, David strikes up an unlikely friendship with a lonely teenage girl who has become caught in the middle of her parents' rocky divorce. A spate of deer slayings escalates out of control when an attempt is made on Lord Ashfordly's life, whilst Greengrass starts his own driving school. But his first pupil crashes Bernie's hearse into Andy Ryan's sports car and Blaketon is shocked when Craddock makes a startling revelation about his home life.
14"Full Circle"Johnny ByrneDiana Patrick26 December 1999 (26 December 1999)11.01
Maggie and Jackie help a woman to track down her long-lost daughter, who she gave up for adoption 20 years ago. But their search soon coincides with Mike's investigation into a spate of hotel room burglaries. Meanwhile, the Inland Revenue return to Aidensfield to, once again, hound Greengrass. He is more concerned with organising a lurcher competition, only to create further problems for himself when Ventress and Blaketon take an interest in his shady new business partner, whilst Craddock requires the help of a solicitor when his wife files for a divorce.
15"The Seven Year Itch"Peter GibbsPaul Walker2 January 2000 (2 January 2000)13.51

Blaketon fears an ex-convict has returned to Aidensfield to seek revenge as the former sergeant had promised he would secure him a shorter prison sentence in return for crucial information. However, it's Blaketon who ends up in trouble with the police. Meanwhile, Greengrass offers his services as a pawnbroker to a cash-strapped spoilt youngster, only to land himself in trouble with two overbearing women. Elsewhere, Sgt Jennifer Nokes takes charge at Ashfordly Station whilst Craddock is on leave and takes a shine to Bellamy, much to Ventress' amusement.

First Appearance of Georgia Glen as Sgt Jennifer Nokes
16"Weight of Evidence"Peter BarwoodGerry Poulson9 January 2000 (9 January 2000)13.11
Mike and Jackie clash when a young barmaid is raped and Jackie gets the prime suspect off the hook by casting doubt on Sgt Nokes integrity. Meanwhile, Greengrass and David purchase "Lightning", a racing sheep! Elsewhere, Andy shows his true colours when he is spotted with another women.
17"For Art's Sake"Andrew McCullochRoger Bamford16 January 2000 (16 January 2000)14.76
When the home of a talented artist is burnt down, The team have plenty of suspects, including the man's benefactor, two London henchmen, and the members of a local rugby club. Meanwhile, Greengrass opens up a B&B, but soon discovers the world of hospitality is not for him and jumps at the chance to buy shares of a racehorse from an old flame. Elsewhere, Blaketon's suspicions about Andy are piqued by a sudden holiday to Scotland and decides to trail the cheating Irishman.
18"A Shot in the Dark"Peter GibbsGerry Mills23 January 2000 (23 January 2000)15.16
Jackie comes into conflict with Lord Ashfordly when she becomes determined to protect a lovestruck youngster, who was shot on his land by his new gamekeeper, from a case of injustice. Meanwhile, Greengrass becomes a newspaper columnist for the Ashfordly Gazette and cannot resist using his new job to express his opinion of the police force and the local nobilities.
19"The Good Doctor"Jane HollowoodPaul Walker30 January 2000 (30 January 2000)14.78
A new GP called Ian Peters arrives in Aidensfield and immediately wins Maggie's heart by treating baby Sam's infection. However, the villagers are not impressed by his methods when one of Jackie's friends is involved in a car crash and he misdiagnoses her. As Maggie begins a whirlwind romance, Mike's investigation of the crash is compromised when Lord Ashfordly's nephew is put in the spotlight. Meanwhile, Greengrass begins a bike renting business, which leads to a painful experience for Ventress. Elsewhere, Andy returns, determined to win back Gina's affections.
20"Against the Odds"Johnny ByrneGerry Poulson6 February 2000 (6 February 2000)15.16
Mike and Blaketon become caught in a case of gold-diggers, money-driven relatives, amateur arsonists and corrupt councillors when a local farmer is found dead after changing his will. Meanwhile, Greengrass' latest get-rich-quick scheme sees him taking on the role of a racehorse trainer.
21"Desperate Measures"Neil McKayRoger Bamford13 February 2000 (13 February 2000)13.77
Jackie attempts to save a recently widowed father with a drink problem from the depths of despair when he comes under suspicion for the theft of Lord Ashfordly's racehorse. Meanwhile, Maggie's worst nightmare becomes a reality when her son Sam is kidnapped whilst Bellamy is babysitting, leaving the young officer guilt-ridden and determined to find the baby. Elsewhere, Bernie reveals a hidden talent, which Greengrass is quick to take advantage of when he organises a séance.
22"With this Ring"Gillian RichmondPaul Walker20 February 2000 (20 February 2000)11.69
When Lord Ashfordly's gamekeeper turns to crime to pay off his debts, the consequences are dire when his wife commits suicide, which is witnessed by Mike, leaving the constable overwhelmed with guilt and threatening his relationship with those closest to him when he endures on a downward spiral. Meanwhile, Greengrass cannot believe his luck when he and David come across a stranded lorry loaded with bags of coal, whilst Gina takes pity on Andy when he ends up in hospital, but Blaketon recruits Andy's wife to thwart Andy's chances of worming his way back into Gina's life.
23"Wise Guys"Susan WilkinsRoger Bamford27 February 2000 (27 February 2000)13.51
When Greengrass opens up a chip van, he becomes caught in a dangerous, long-running feud between the Mazzetti family and a chip shop owner known as "Big Eddy". Meanwhile, a widower falls for Ventress and becomes obsessed with him protecting her house from a gang of tearaway youths, but Blaketon becomes suspicious of both of their intentions.
24"The Son-in-Law"Peter BarwoodGerry Mills5 March 2000 (5 March 2000)14.52
A visit from Jackie's parents causes friction between her and Mike when her mother attempts to drive a wedge between them as she thinks a village bobby isn't good enough for her daughter, leaving Jackie with a difficult dilemma. Meanwhile, Greengrass, David and Gina befriend a musician called Micky Shannon (Gary Barlow) and organise a concert at the Aidensfield Arms. Andy has bad history with Micky, and consumed with jealousy by his relationship with Gina, plots to prove that he is not all he seems, whilst Craddock and his men tackle a case of diamond smuggling when they find an abandoned car in the river.

Series 10 (2000-2001)

No. Title Written by Directed by Original Airdate UK viewers
(millions)[1]
1"Chalk and Cheese"Peter GibbsPaul Walker22 October 2000 (22 October 2000)12.24
A retired schoolteacher asks Blaketon for help when she is terrorised by her neighbour, a disgruntled farmer whom Craddock and Ventress suspect is guilty of a much more serious crime when they investigate the disappearance of his wife. Meanwhile, Greengrass gets into trouble with the council when he opens up a rubbish dump on his land. Worse still, David inadvertently deposits a hand grenade on the rubbish dump, whilst Bellamy tries to cheer a depressed Gina up by taking her on a night out with Jackie and Mike, which appears to work when she makes it a night to remember with her singing performance.
2"Smile for the Camera"Jane HollowoodGerry Mills29 October 2000 (29 October 2000)14.22
Mike and Jackie face a terrifying ordeal at the hands of a stalker who seems to have a very personal grudge against Jackie. Mike suspects Jackie's colleague Anthony is the culprit and Craddock's narrow-minded attitude towards the case leaves her feeling isolated. As Mike points the finger at an innocent man, Ventress and Blaketon take it upon themselves to investigate and save the couple's marriage. Meanwhile, David persuades Bernie and a reluctant Greengrass to arrange a Colonel's funeral when he becomes attached to the Colonel's widow, but it doesn't run smoothly when they use a horse and a hey cart instead of a hearse.
3"Dog Collar"Niel McKayNoreen Kershaw5 November 2000 (5 November 2000)13.68
Ventress is caught in the crossfire when a church is robbed after a fundraising concert, and the finger of suspicion points to the vicarage - of all places! Meanwhile, Greengrass and David turn Alfred into dog star when they lose a prize-winning poodle after entering it into a dog show on behalf of its owner, whilst Bellamy attempts to impress Gina by helping out at the pub, but it's Mike who ends up getting his hands dirty.
4"Gabriel's Last Stand"Gil BraileyGerry Poulson12 November 2000 (12 November 2000)13.17
A retired MP causes a stir when he begins a new life in Aidensfield and cancels an annual village event, only for his lascivious past to come back to haunt him. Meanwhile, Greengrass causes a blast - literally - when he and David provide home-made fireworks for the annual Aidensfield firework display, whilst love is in the air for Gina and Bellamy.
5"War Stories"Peter BarwoodDiana Patrick19 November 2000 (19 November 2000)14.94
Ventress is reunited with his old commando unit on a reunion weekend, but the event is soon brought to a bitter end when one of the war veterans is killed and an interfering reporter causes tensions to boil over. Meanwhile, Maggie recruits Greengrass and David to help her make a dying women's wish come true, but her controlling son threatens to put a spanner in the works. Elsewhere, Bellamy comes to Gina's rescue when a pompous garage owner causes trouble at the Aidensfield Arms.
6"The Fool on the Hill"Helen BizardPaul Walker26 November 2000 (26 November 2000)13.86
Craddock's mother Enid visits Aidensfield and fancies herself as a Miss Marple figure when she witnesses an attempted murder, but her efforts to catch the culprit drives her son mad. Meanwhile, Greengrass is delighted when he wins big at the bookies, until he discovers David has lost the winning ticket after taking Alfred to the vets, which causes more trouble than expected.
7"The Traveller"John MilneGeoff Wonfor3 December 2000 (3 December 2000)13.62
Life in Aidensfield descends into chaos when a party of travellers set up camp outside the pub and two feuding armed robbers go on the run. Meanwhile, Greengrass intends to make a killing on a pony and trap race with the travellers, but the local constabulary are one step ahead of the old scoundrel.
8"Child's Play"Michael HallSteve Goldie10 December 2000 (10 December 2000)13.80
Mike launches a manhunt for a terrified youngster who has run away from his boarding school and begins to suspect that the headmaster has been abusing his pupils. Meanwhile, Bernie enters the entertainment industry when he has a chance meeting with an old friend in the pub. Elsewhere, Bellamy's blossoming romance with Gina comes under threat when old flame Sue Driscoll returns to Aidensfield, whilst Maggie receives a visit from an old adversary and finds herself falling for his charms.
9"Fallen Heroes"Johnny ByrnePaul Walker17 December 2000 (17 December 2000)12.04
When a suitcase containing £18,000 disappears from the wreck of a crashed car, it seems a modern day Robin Hood is at large when a number of villagers receive parcels filled with cash. Bernie appears to hold the key to identifying the culprit, but Blaketon becomes suspicious as to where the money came from when the owner of the car checks in at the Aidensfield Arms. Meanwhile, Graham's efforts to impress Maggie pay off when he arranges a holiday for them and baby Sam. Elsewhere, Bellamy regrets asking for Ventress' help when he tries to make Gina's birthday one to remember.
10"Cold Turkey"Peter GibbsNoreen Kershaw24 December 2000 (24 December 2000)11.16

It's Christmas, and the residents of Aidensfield have to contend with their very own scrooge, the mean spirited bank manager Gordon Stringer. Greengrass' quest to get payment for a job from Stringer lands him, Bernie and David in the cells over the Christmas period. With villagers gathering with pitchforks, Craddock and his men have their work cut out when Stringer's son is kidnapped and a ransom is demanded, leaving everyone under suspicion.

Final Appearance of Bill Maynard as Claude Greengrass
11"Sylvia's Mother"Gillian RichmondDiana Patrick7 January 2001 (7 January 2001)13.70

Maggie becomes suspicious about the death of a friend's mother, and when she approaches Mike with her suspicions, she becomes caught in the middle of a feud between the old women's two children and their partners. As she tries to find out the truth, Maggie is faced with a tough dilemma after receiving a tempting job offer away from Aidensfield. Meanwhile, Blaketon and Lord Ashfordly go head-to head to win the affections of a beautiful businesswomen.

Final Appearance of Kazia Pelka as Maggie Bolton
12"Safehouse"Peter GibbsGerry Mills14 January 2001 (14 January 2001)13.71

Mike receives orders to provide a refuge for a dangerous police informant and struggles to keep it under wraps, especially when Nokes and Bellamy become suspicious about his strange behaviour. As Jackie suffers a terrifying ordeal at the hands of her new houseguest, Mike becomes mixed up in a case of police corruption. Meanwhile, David is devastated when Greengrass makes an abrupt departure from Aidensfield to join his sister in the West Indies when she comes into a large amount of money. Bernie is horrified when his entrepreneurial brother Vernon turns up in the village. Vernon is quick to worm his way into Greengrass' old cottage when David runs into trouble whilst calling in on an old debt of his former mentor, and Bernie is riled when his brother plans to cash in on his share of Scripps garage.

First Appearance of Geoffrey Hughes as Vernon Scripps and Clare Calbraith as Dr Tricia Summerbee
13"Blind Justice"Niel McKayPaul Walker21 January 2001 (21 January 2001)13.82
Mike fears Craddock's desperate need for love is clouding his judgement when the son of his dancing tutor becomes the prime suspect in a hit-and-run accident. Meanwhile, Vernon's attempt to impress Lord Ashfordly causes chaos at the wedding of his Lordship's niece, leaving long-suffering Bernie to pick up the pieces. Elsewhere, Bellamy's visit to a casino proves more eventful than expected, whilst Ventress pays a visit to the new village doctor, Tricia Summerbee, and fears the results of his tests will threaten the future of his career.
14"Home Truths"Gil BraileyDiana Patrick28 January 2001 (28 January 2001)13.06
Jackie's rocky relationship with her mother worsens when she begins prosecuting one of her oldest friends for negligence in the workplace, setting in motion a horrifying chain of events that leave the Ashfordly officers with a murderer on the loose. Meanwhile, Vernon and David's latest enterprise of catering for pop concerts plunges the whole of Ashfordly into a blackout, whilst Ventress and Blaketon are wary of Gina and Bellamy's romance because romantic relations between a police officer and a licensee are illegal, putting Bellamy in a terrible predicament.
15"Not So Special"Michael HallNoreen Kershaw4 February 2001 (4 February 2001)13.54
The team race to find the culprit when someone goes to dangerous lengths to force a farmer's widow into giving up her husband's rundown farm, with the finger of suspicion pointing firmly at her ruthless niece. Meanwhile, Vernon enters a hot rod racing event and asks Bernie to repair a highly modified morris minor for him to use. Elsewhere, Ventress takes a new special constable under his wing when he is dispatched to Ashfordly station, whilst Bellamy gets his wires crossed when Gina is spotted leaving the maternity ward.
16"The Long Weekend"Jane HollowoodRoger Bamford11 February 2001 (11 February 2001)13.69
Mike's niece visits Aidensfield for the weekend, but he and Jackie soon have their work cut out when she and her friends sneak out on a late-night binge, which leaves more than one youngster in peril. Meanwhile, Vernon becomes a bodyguard for a Russian prince who is staying at Ashfordly Hall, and gets into trouble with Lord Ashfordly when he takes the prince to the pub. Elsewhere, Bellamy pulls out all the stops as he plans to ask Gina to marry him, but disaster strikes when he requires David's assistance, while Tricia Summerbee makes her mark at the village surgery.
17"Who's Who?"Peter GibbsDiana Patrick18 February 2001 (18 February 2001)13.15
Mike suspects a cover-up when the wife of the High Sheriff has a road accident that leaves a farmer seriously injured. With Craddock compromised by the investigation, it falls on Blaketon to launch his own enquiry and find out what really happened. Meanwhile, David finds himself in trouble with a jealous husband known as "Big Bo" when he joins Vernon's marriage bureau. Elsewhere, Bellamy is heartbroken when Gina turns down his marriage proposal and asks Craddock for his job back at Ashfordly station.
18"Gin a Baby, Meet a Baby"Brian FinchPaul Walker25 February 2001 (25 February 2001)12.67
Reeling from his breakup with Gina, Bellamy becomes obsessed with bringing a car dealer's cocky son to justice when he witnesses him fleeing from the scene of a robbery, but his personal vendetta has horrifying consequences for the angry officer when he finds himself on an assault charge. Meanwhile, Vernon wins a car in a poker game and decides to open a taxi service, leading to big trouble when he accidentally tells an abusive convict the whereabouts of his estranged wife and his stashed loot from a robbery, whilst Bernie is asked to organise a funeral for a man who isn't even dead.
19"Killing Me Softly"Helen BizardRoger Bamford4 March 2001 (4 March 2001)12.78
The team uncover a major crime operation involving the family of a casino manager when counterfeit notes sweep through Aidensfield. Meanwhile, Vernon lands Blaketon in trouble with the law when he persuades the publican to change his image by purchasing a sports car, whilst Mike's suggestion that he and Jackie start a family is not met with the response he expected.
20"Unchained Melody"Sussn WilkinsGerry Mill11 March 2001 (11 March 2001)12.89
The Ashfordly officers undertake a surveillance operation against a nobility suspected of being a drug trafficker, who also turns out to be the new love interest of Lord Ashfordly's alcoholic sister Patricia. Meanwhile, Jackie and Mike are left holding the baby when Jackie receives a visit from her old friend Caroline, who is struggling to cope with motherhood. Elsewhere, Vernon takes advantage of a postal strike by setting up his own courier service at Bernie's garage.
21"Truth Game"Jane HollowoodPaul Walker18 March 2001 (18 March 2001)12.84
Jackie's feelings are mixed when she is called to defend a businessman accused of raping a hotel guest at a conference, and Tricia discovers there's more to the case than meets the eye after catching the victim in a compromising position. Meanwhile, Vernon is horrified to discover that David has stopped paying the bills in Greengrass' absence, forcing them both to seek "real" employment. However, they soon find themselves caught up in an insurance scam when they approach a local farmer for work.
22"Consequences"Johnny ByrneGerry Poulson25 March 2001 (25 March 2001)13.04
The officers of Ashfordly find themselves out of their depth when the village is plagued by a series of explosions that seem to revolve around an ambulance driver, a shopkeeper - and Gina Ward! Meanwhile, Vernon and David are hired by Lord Ashfordly to restore his family's rundown church to its former glory, but a bogus vicar seems hell bent on stopping them.
23"The Buxton Defence"Brian FinchNoreen Kershaw1 April 2001 (1 April 2001)12.19
A Russian chess champion comes to stay at Ashfordly Hall, and Lord Ashfordly asks Craddock for a permanent police presence during his stay, giving an exceptionally devious burglar the opportunity to wreak havoc in Aidensfield, and the crime spree soon reaches Ashfordly Hall, leaving Bellamy and Ventress to face Craddock's wraith. Meanwhile, Vernon and David are thrown into a panic when they discover Greengrass is not returning to Aidensfield and has decided to sell the cottage, whilst Jackie goes on a trip to London to continue her sordid affair with Adrian Miller, leaving Mike suspicious.
24"Still Water"Peter GibbsGerry Mill8 April 2001 (8 April 2001)13.25

Mike clashes with a cattle market auctioneer with a shady reputation and finds himself under suspicion for police corruption. To make matters a lot worse, Jackie makes a devastating revelation that tears the village bobby's world apart. Meanwhile, Vernon goes into partnership with one of his neighbours to bottle and sell "the Aidensfield spring water", but they face competition in Lord Ashfordly when he discovers the source of the spring is on his land.

Final Appearance of Fiona Dolman as Jackie Bradley

External links

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