When the team investigate a murder at a quarry, Ventress faces a few awkward questions about his murky past when the prime suspect turns out to be a major criminal whom he certified as dead 15 years previously. Meanwhile, Vernon surprises everyone by getting a "real" job at a department store after Blaketon issues him with a few home truths about his lifestyle. However, the entrepreneurial side of him re-awakens when the store is threatened with closure. Elsewhere, Tricia returns to work following her heart attack, and Mike's constant fussing makes it difficult for the village doctor to regain her confidence.

Merton predicts an uneventful few days when the County Sheepdog Trials take place at Ashfordly Hall, but he is proven wrong when the prestigious event brings out the worst in one particular influential candidate, who hatches a plan to eliminate his rivals. Meanwhile, Vernon tries to impress Lord Ashfordly by organising the toilet facilities for the sheepdog trials, but he soon discovers the job entails more than putting up a tent or two.