Ep 5. Four And Twenty Blackbirds

The episode "Four And Twenty Blackbirds" is the fifth episode of the second season of the British crime drama television series Wycliffe. Set against the backdrop of picturesque Cornwall, this thrilling episode explores the dark underbelly of a seemingly idyllic village, as Detectives Superintendent Charles Wycliffe and his team are tasked with unraveling a sinister murder mystery.

The episode begins with the shocking and brutal murder of a well-known local birdwatcher, Victor Trimbshaw. Trimbshaw, an eccentric character loved by the villagers for his vast knowledge of birds, is found dead in a remote field. As Wycliffe and his team arrive at the crime scene, they are met with an air of unease and suspicion amongst the tight-knit community.

As the investigation gets underway, the team quickly discovers that Trimbshaw's murder is far from straightforward. Uncovering a hidden collection of rare and valuable bird eggs at the victim's home, they suspect that the motive behind the crime may be related to the illegal trade of protected bird species. The intricate web of deceit and secrecy surrounding the world of birdwatching becomes a central focus of the investigation.

Meanwhile, tensions rise within the village as longstanding rivalries and personal conflicts come to light. Trimbshaw's death uncovers a multitude of secrets among the villagers, some of whom may have wanted him silenced. Wycliffe and his team must navigate through a intricate maze of potential suspects, each with their own motives and alibis.

As the investigation progresses, Wycliffe discovers connections between the murder and a local gang of bird egg thieves. With the assistance of his loyal and resourceful team, including DI Doug Kersey and DS Lucy Lane, Wycliffe digs deeper into the criminal underbelly of Cornwall's birdwatching community. They must not only identify the killer but also dismantle the illegal trading network threatening endangered species.

In their pursuit of justice, the team faces numerous hurdles and red herrings, as well as the reluctant cooperation of some villagers who are determined to keep their secrets hidden. The detectives find themselves entangled in a web of suspicion, lies, and deception, where no one is entirely innocent and everyone seems to have something to hide.

With time running out and the pressure mounting, Wycliffe races against the clock to catch the killer before they strike again. Will he and his team be able to untangle the complex web of clues and motives to bring the perpetrator to justice? Or will the secrets of the village remain buried forever?

In "Four And Twenty Blackbirds," Wycliffe offers viewers a compelling and suspenseful story, marked by its atmospheric setting, intricate plotting, and morally complex characters. This episode showcases the relentless determination of Detective Superintendent Charles Wycliffe and his team as they navigate the treacherous waters of an insular community, determined to bring a killer to justice and restore order to a violated sanctuary of nature.