Series 2 · Episode 3
Dereliction of Duty
First broadcast 27 January 2008 · 5.41 million viewers
DirectorAndrew GrieveWriterJeff PoveyOriginal order9 of 18Editorial statusOwner reviewed
Fan-reviewedAll 18 episodes watched · editorial review updated 5 September 2026How this guide is researched
The case and opening problem
Peter and Lyle investigate the identity of an American serviceman after a pregnant woman asks for help contacting him.
Themes
Credited guest cast checked so far
Episode-specific guest credits are awaiting an end-credit check.
Reveal the complete plot summary — spoilers
Plot summary
Simon’s bail is set at £100,000, placing the future of the family practice at risk. Peter and Lyle investigate the identity of an American serviceman after a pregnant woman asks them to contact him, but the nearby airbase denies knowing him. Honor leaves Market Shipborough, while Lyle discovers Simon’s hidden cash and uses it to secure his release.
What this episode changes
Simon’s bail threatens the practice, Honor leaves and Lyle uses the hidden money to secure Simon’s release.
Why this episode matters
The serviceman mystery and Simon’s bail both depend on uncertain identity, documents and the risks people accept for those they believe.
Scene log status
The story and credited names above are reviewed. Exact timestamps, music cues and scene-by-scene filming locations remain to be checked directly against a legitimate copy of the episode.