When Constable Nick leads a procession of villagers around Aidensfield's parish boundaries as part of an ancient custom, he realises his work involves practices that have little connection with his constabulary obligations. From time to time he must operate beyond the call of duty to fulfil his role as village constable - getting a bride to church on time, tracing a missing cat or dealing with a woman whose neighbour is obstructing her view with rows of washing. These are not normally police officer's duties, but when a body is found on the moors above Aidensfield it is definitely one of his constabulary responsibilities.