‘I’m sorry, Sarge, but I’m just about to go off duty. I’ve got a half four appointment at my doctor’s and I’m running late as it is. You’re welcome to look through the index cards, or leave the details of anyone you’re interested in and I’ll get back to you on Monday with the results.’

Jane wondered if she could persuade him to stay a while.

‘I’m investigating the armed robbery in Leytonstone yesterday morning . . .’

He stopped and turned around.

‘The one where the officers got shot and crashed the area car?’

‘Yes.’

‘I heard about it and read the teleprinter message – bloody miracle no one was killed. I’m PC Kevin Bottomley. How can I help you?’ He took his coat off.

‘I’m following up on some information I was given about a couple of possible suspects, IC1 males who use the Bluebird cafe in Bruce Grove,’ Jane said, referring to the police code for white people.

‘I know the Bluebird – I used to pop in there regularly for a cuppa when I was the home beat officer.’

‘I was told the owner is called Nick.’

‘That’s right. He’s owned the cafe for donkey’s years. Runs it with his wife, but I heard she’s not been very well recently – emphysema.’

‘Has he got a criminal record?’

Bottomley laughed. ‘No, he’s as honest as they come, though he does get a few criminals in his place now and again – but that’s not unusual for a cafe in Tottenham. When I was the home beat, he put some names my way about a gang who were nicking shedloads of fresh meat from an abattoir and trying to sell it on to him. They were nicked thanks to him. I know he’s helped a few other officers out with information as well. What’s your suspects’ names?’

He picked up a pen and opened his A4 notebook.

‘Apart from the name Tommy, I don’t know if the others are Christian or surnames – but the descriptions I was given are quite good.’ Jane got out her pocket notebook. ‘I must tell you, though, my informant is obviously worried about repercussions.’

‘I totally understand. I don’t need to know anything about your informant, and what you tell me will remain between the two of us.’

She handed Bottomley the descriptions Rachel had written.

‘M2 may be the one called Tommy.’

He read them and handed Jane back the piece of notepaper.