A sharp and emotionally striking pre-titles sequence sets the tone for this episode, firmly stating its focus on character development. While the events in this sequence, involving a suicidal girl who throws herself in front of the Tube, are minimal and mainly implied, they have an emotional resonance that filters into the story, particularly for Mal (Rhashan Stone).

Technically the episode had some very fine moments. The rescue of Jimmy (Alan Ford) who is blown out a window in a wreckers yard, is excellent. The set piece, which sees Kev and Dennis manoeuvre Jimmy out through a maze of used cars, is coupled with a wryly humourous script and some fine camera work. That it is topped off with Kev and Dennis’s post-rescue bonding makes it all the more intense, particularly when you consider the resonance of Dennis’s ‘A dog’s a beast’ speech.

It’s also reassuring that my key grumble from last week’s opener – the lack of initial relationship development between Kev (Jamie Bamber) and Trish (Jodie Whittaker) – is not just immediately addressed, but continually touched upon throughout the episode; nods to the couple’s emotional dissatisfaction, sexual frustration and physical losses all building to a more positive outlook for the couple by the episodes end. How long this will last though?

Mal sleeping with Trish, which at least in part prompted her to proposal to Kev, will have serious repercussions if he finds out. Ziggy (Pippa Bennett-Warner) is also aware of the chemistry between the friends, so it can only be a matter of time before that secret is exposed.

The show’s central mystery also takes an interesting turn as Kev befriends new recruit Dennis, who is in part responsible for the beating Kev received during the Churchill Estate fire that disfigured him. It provides an interesting perspective with a friendship between victim and bully. Credit must go to Taron Egerton’s subtle portrayal of Dennis, who doesn’t give much away.

Is he genuinely sorry for what he did, and simply afraid to be found out? Or is he an insider making sure the truth doesn’t come out at all costs? That he aligns himself with his old gang at the episode’s end may seem telling, but the character is clearly conflicted, and that’s fascinating to watch.

Airs at 9pm on Thursday 27 February 2014 on Sky1.

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