Series 3 · Episode 1
Combat Wounds
First broadcast 7 June 2009 · 5.32 million viewers
DirectorMetin HüseyinWriterAlan WhitingOriginal order13 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 seeks fairer compensation for a soldier injured in Iraq; Lyle challenges sex discrimination involving the Blues and Royals.
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
Peter represents a soldier who lost a leg in Iraq and is seeking fairer compensation from the Ministry of Defence. Lyle takes on a sex-discrimination case involving the Blues and Royals, while Gloria’s difficult father obstructs a couple attempting to navigate their canal boat through his lock. The cases explore duty, dignity and the consequences of entrenched attitudes.
What this episode changes
The opening episode re-establishes the practice after Simon’s death and begins the final series’ concern with duty and identity.
Why this episode matters
The third-series opener moves from private eccentricity to public institutions, asking what duty is owed to people harmed in service.
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.