The story is set on industrial Tyneside in the late sixties and early seventies. It explores the gritty reality of criminal investigation in that era, focussing on the relationship between a detective and his informant. David Solomons and Derek Duggan become acquainted at school, but go their separate ways. When they meet in later years Sol is a young constable and Degsey a member of a well organised criminal gang. With guidance from a seasoned detective, Sol manipulates Degsey into the role of informant. The arrangement benefits Degsey financially and catapults Sol into the sleazy world of the borough CID. With his sights set on the coveted regional crime squad, Sol intimidates Degsey into setting up his underworld brother, Billy. Streetwise Billy is inherently wary. At the last minute he forces Degsey to take an active part in the big heist. Billy's insurance pays off. The police stakeout goes wrong. As an agent provocateur Degsey is unavoidably arrested and the case is skewed. To secure his acquittal Degsey agrees to cooperate with an internal investigation in return for immunity and police protection. The prosecution case, Sol's career and ultimately his liberty are in serious jeopardy. His only option is to claim on his own insurance in the confines of a prison remand wing. In the sequel Billy seeks revenge for his brother's death.