It was a proper old-fashioned cops and robbers drama

Upon entering the boozer, George is at once dispatched to the bar to order a round of drinks.

The calming effect of the alcohol together with Mr Reagan’s interrogation skills soon has the informant babbling information. Another round of drinks is ordered and a plate of tasty jellied eels to line the stomach.

A fair while later the trio exit the pub all but arm in, and George and Mr Reagan wave their informant a fond farewell.

The policemen return to their police station to write their reports and tie up any loose ends. Mr Haskins pops in for an update and the policemen talk shop for the next half hour or so. There is time for a final drink before the gruelling shift is at long last over.

He wasn’t bad in Minder either.

Anthony Fenlon Bursledon road, Waterlooville