A body is uncovered while Environmental Health remove barrels of toxic waste from the local quarry. The only clue to the victim's identity is the waterlogged patchwork quilt wrapped around the body. Watching the news, the victim's glamorous mother Miriam Lampter recognises the quilt and informs the police that the victim is her missing son James. During their enquiries, DI Jackson and his team soon discover that James was a closet homosexual and having an affair with married Nigel Goss. Initially their prime suspect, Goss is let off the hook when Jackson realises he's innocent but it's not long before the wily detective focuses his attentions on the Lampter family, in particular James' brother Daniel, with shocking results.

Paul Dangerfield is badgered to take some holiday leave by his son Marty and colleague Nick MacKenzie. Taking their advice, he decides to invite Joanna away with him for a long weekend.

Meanwhile, lovebirds Alison and Ben go camping in Snowdonia but the fun soon