Series 3 · Episode 5
Family Pressure
First broadcast 5 July 2009 · 4.94 million viewers
DirectorEdward HallWriterAlan WhitingOriginal order17 of 18Editorial statusOwner reviewed
Fan-reviewedAll 18 episodes watched · editorial review updated 5 September 2026How this guide is researched
The case and opening problem
Lyle returns to Stockport to oppose development on allotments; Peter handles a dispute involving a young cellist.
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
Lyle returns to Stockport when his mother asks him to oppose plans to build on local allotments. His troublesome twin brothers become involved through guerrilla gardening and a police chase, before an endangered plant offers a lawful way to protect the land. Back in Market Shipborough, Peter handles a dispute involving a young cellist, but his worsening health ends in his collapse.
What this episode changes
Lyle’s family background moves to the foreground, while Peter’s worsening health ends in collapse.
Why this episode matters
Lyle’s return to Stockport explains the roots of his ambition, while Peter’s collapse begins the final reversal from adviser to person needing help.
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.