A dying ex-con kidnaps Jenny in a plan to force old nemesis Merton into giving him the identity of the informant responsible for his 8-year prison sentence, but things don't go according to plan when the sergeant discovers the man in question has long since died, worsening the fragile criminal's state of mind and putting Jenny in even greater danger. With Merton pre-occupied, Steve and the rest of the team are left to investigate a spate of sports car thefts. Meanwhile, Vernon is enjoying his new-found wealth and influence as he invites himself to join Blaketon at a charity function held by Sir Nigel in aid of an old people's home. After befriending Nigel, he tries to impress by suggesting to organise a charity antique sale. As ever, events don't quite go to plan and all hopes for an MBE are dashed, whilst old passions are rekindled between Gina and Bellamy.

Lord Ashfordly's sister Patricia returns to Aidensfield with a renowned Polish musician and his daughter, intending to stage a concert at the village hall, but disaster strikes when one of the violinist's expensive instruments is stolen, and whilst investigating the theft, Steve falls in love with the musician's daughter, which doesn't go down to well with her father. Meanwhile, Vernon and Bernie's shady Liverpudlian cousins, Big and Little Jim, show up in Aidensfield and try to take advantage of their cousin's wealth by persuading him to make a hefty investment. Gina rumbles their scheme, but faces a tough job in persuading Vernon that his cousins are out to fleece him. Elsewhere, Merton is delighted when Jenny finally accepts his marriage proposal.