This episode was actually written by Troy Kennedy Martin but he insisted that his name be removed and replaced by a fictitious name Tony Marsh because he objected to changes that were made to his script by producer Ted Childs and associate producer Mary Morgan.
First appearance of DS Matt Mathews, played by John Flanagan. He appeared in 3 episodes. The last one being Queen's Pawn (1975). John Flanagan later appeared in Sweeney 2 (1978) as Willard.
Detective Chief Superintendent Maynon, played by Morris Perry, previously appeared in the pilot Regan (1974). He appeared in 3 more episodes. The last one being Visiting Fireman (1976). He also appeared in Sweeney! (1977) as Flying Squad Commander Maynon.
First appearance of DC Jimmy Thorpe, played by Martyn Read. He appeared in 5 episodes. The last one being Faces (1975). Martin Read later appeared with John Thaw in The Day of the Devil (1993) and End Game (1999)
After a strong opening week for the series, this second episode wasn't as successful, falling out of the Top 20. (At the bottom of the Top 20 for the week were World in Action (1963) and a broadcast of Episode #2.1 (1975), both with 6.85 million under the JICTAR Ratings System.)
However, a repeat of the episode on 1st November 1976 fared far better with audiences. Airing in the week between the screening of May (1976) and Sweet Smell of Succession (1976), it received ratings of 9.05m, making it the fourth most-watched programme of the week.
However, a repeat of the episode on 1st November 1976 fared far better with audiences. Airing in the week between the screening of May (1976) and Sweet Smell of Succession (1976), it received ratings of 9.05m, making it the fourth most-watched programme of the week.