Merton cross swords with an old adversary who sheds some light on the circumstances surrounding his demotion from CID when a man who has been presumed dead for 20 years returns to Aidensfield and seems to have not aged a day. Meanwhile, Vernon and David enter the world of vineyards when they befriend a young Frenchman who thinks their cottage is the perfect place for wine-making. Elsewhere, Blaketon organises a treasure hunt to raise money for a local playground and inadvertently acts as cupid for Mike and Tricia.

The villagers plan a surprise party for Tom's 21st birthday, but the celebrations are delayed as the team pursue two dangerous criminals. After Bellamy's life is placed in mortal peril, Tom plays the hero, saving his colleague's life but putting his own at risk. With one officer in a critical condition and another locked in a hostage stand-off, Merton takes a big risk, setting in motion a heartbreaking chain of events that leaves everyone in devastation. Meanwhile, Vernon steps in as the agent of a brass band and can't resist blowing his own trumpet after hiring them out to Lord Ashfordly to play for a group of American war veterans.