On Harbour Street

S4, E1: In the returning episode of ITV's VERA, DCI Vera Stanhope investigates the mysterious death of pensioner Margaret Kraszewski found stabbed on a busy Newcastle train at the height of rush hour. The case is particularly painful for DS Joe Ashworth when his daughter proves to be a key witness in the investigation. Ruling out robbery as a motive, Vera is led to a B&B in a run down seaside town where Margaret lives with Kate Darrow and her teenage children, Ryan and Chloe. Margaret has lodged in the top room of the house for 35 years. Vera and Joe discover Margaret had approached the police on the day of her death but left the station before being interviewed. When the murder weapon is found in the bay nearby, Vera is convinced Margaret knew her killer. Enquiries lead to Holypool House, a women's refuge on the outside of town where Margaret volunteered. Manager Jane points them to Dee Robson, an alcoholic and prostitute recently thrown out for soliciting from the shelter. A memory sparked by Joe's daughter places Dee on the train at the time of the murder. Dee admits to meeting Margaret, who generously gave up her coat. Unable to make any direct forensic link, the team are forced to release Dee for the time being.