The villagers are furious when Henry Stoddard, who was convicted of murdering Nick Rowan's predecessor, is released from prison. When the Aidensfield Arms is attacked and Ventress is nearly killed in a hit-and-run accident, Henry immediately comes under suspicion and protests his innocence in the 15-year-old murder case. Rob reopens the case in an attempt to stop further violence from spilling out, but he ends up casting doubt on Blaketon's integrity when evidence suggests another member of the Stoddard family was too blame. Meanwhile, Peggy is delighted when she discovers she may be a distant relative of Lord Ashfordly's and wastes no time by cashing in on her discovery and making herself quite at home at Ashfordly Hall, whilst Bellamy leaves the villagers stunned when he turns up at the pub - with his new wife Debbie!