First of a new drama series about the Waterfront Beat of the Liverpool Police. It's the first day for Chief Superintendent Don Henderson. He arrives at work only to find that his new building is not yet built.
A lorry carrying a bio chemical drum container with bugs inside is hijacked by an armed gang. Det. Sgt. Mike McCarthy believes the owner is holding something back and is proved right when ransom demand is given.
PC Ronnie Barker gets his first arrest and leaves Smithey feeling sheepish. CS Don Henderson locks horns with the ACC (Ops) while WDC Jane Long and DS Mike McCarthy hunt sheep rustlers.
The Police Underwater Recovery Team investigate after a motor cruiser is almost hit by bin bags thrown from a bridge; the stolen car racket continues; PC Barkers bike is disappearing bit by bit.
The body of a woman is found nude and posed in a skip. McCarthy and Long are on the trail of the Wine Store bandit. Car Thief Denny Hagland is given bail despite attempting to escape in a motor launch.
