Newly appointed Eastland Police Chief Constable John Stafford is asked to provide police support to a prison where warders have gone on strike in protest at staff shortages.

As the new Chief Constable, Stafford faces opposition from all sides, and numerous challenges to his authority. The accusation of being soft over the weeding of Special Branch files presents just one...

Stafford creates fruther controversy when he intercepts Special Branch papers en route to MI5. Anne, meanwhile, is determined to clear her husband's name following their son's drug bust.

Stafford must find a solution to the vigilante groups that are emerging in response to a new social menace – crack cocaine.

A drugs raid goes wrong, and militant university students challenge Stafford's authority.

Stafford's conflict with the Home Office reaches crisis point – and threatens to end his career.