In the melting pot of 1890s london, sergeant cork works for scotland yard's newly formed criminal investigation department, enthusiastically employing the pioneering techniques of the new science of forensics to tackle crimes born of poverty and deprivation, passion, vengeance and greed. Ably assisted by youthful detective bob marriott, the astute cork is years ahead of his time, and knows that even the most convincing evidence can all too often deceive. John barrie z cars and william gaunt the champions star in this richly atmospheric, meticulously researched police drama. Devised and written by dixon of dock green creator ted willis, this series sees cork and marriott pitting their wits against poisoners, forgers, murderers and, of course, their own superiors.