‘Well, I really don’t want to get him into trouble. And I don’t want him to know I’ve phoned you. He would think I’m interfering, you see.’

‘If you’re worried about him, Grace, then I think you should tell me why. I can assure you any information you provide will be treated confidentially.’

‘Okay,’ Grace said, as though Rebecca had convinced her to tell all. ‘Well … Nathan’s been struggling lately. I’m not sure why. Maybe it’s being out after such a long time inside? He seemed fine at first. But now … well, he’s drinking every day, and I know he’s back on drugs.’

‘Oh, and how do you know that?’

‘I see him almost every day in my pub drinking. And as for the drugs, I’ve known Nathan for a very long time, and I know when he’s using. I’d say cocaine and possibly other stuff too – but I’m only guessing at that. I still care about him, we get on really well you see, and our son, well he idolizes him. I just want him to get some help before he starts to go off the rails again, so I thought I’d let you know.’

‘Thanks for the information, Grace. As I said, I can’t discuss an individual case with you. But I appreciate your call. If you have any concerns in the future, then please call me and I’d be happy to listen.’

Grace thanked Rebecca for her time and ended the call. She put the kettle on to boil as she started to make her second call of the morning. After three rings the automated service kicked in. Once she had answered the necessary questions, Grace listened to the recorded message telling her she was being connected to the appropriate control room. It was a few minutes before she heard a man’s voice on the other end of the line.

‘Merseyside Police.’

‘Hi,’ she said nervously. ‘I wasn’t sure whether to even call about this, but I think someone has been sneaking into the flat above my pub and stealing some whisky.’

‘Okay, may I take your name, Miss?’

‘Grace Sumner.’

‘And the address where you say the break-in took place.’

‘The Rose and Crown. Smithfield Street. But I don’t think there’s been a break-in. There’s no sign of forced entry. I think they may have a key.’

‘Well, who would have a key?’

‘Just me and my son. The bar staff don’t have a key for the upstairs.’

‘So could it be your son?’

‘No. I don’t think so. He’s at university now in Leeds.’

‘Ms Sumner. Are you reporting a break-in or not?’

‘No. There’s been no break-in. It’s just I can tell someone’s been here, that’s all. And they’ve definitely taken some whisky.’