Crisis Management

The systematic attempt to manage those crises events that do occur

(Pearson & Clair, 1998).

My first attempt at any sort of fiction – thought I should post before I lost my nerve, and anyway 'time is running out'. Mostly written before S3 began. Reviews appreciated and positive feedback welcomed.

Disclaimer: Just borrowing the wonderful characters that belong to Kudos and BBC,

but Chief Inspector Bryan is mine.

Prologue – 'Monday, Monday'

At 9.15am Chief Inspector Bryan walked briskly up the steps and into Fenchurch East police station.

Registering the customary odours of disinfectant and cigarette smoke, Bryan also noted a faint undertone of floor polish. At least some of the staff here are still doing their jobs, he thought. Now for some action.

Rapping firmly on the reception desk he addressed the Desk Sergeant:

"Sergeant James …. Chief Inspector Bryan – I'm here to interview senior staff as part of a snap station inspection".

Masking his sinking spirits, Viv James asked politely "Whom do you wish to see?"

"DCI Hunt – is he in his office?"

"Er, no sir – out on a case."

"Why am I not surprised? Find him, Sergeant, and tell him to present himself for interview at 10.30. Understood?"

"Yes sir."

"In the meantime, set me up with an interview room, coffee and a WPC to take a few notes. I'll start with a look at the evidence records."

"Is DI Drake in the building?"

"Yes sir."

Nodding his approval, Bryan went on:

"I'll see her at 11.00, and Sergeant, I want to see this station as it is, no warnings to anyone. Call me in the canteen when everything is ready, I know the way."

Turning smartly, the Chief Inspector disappeared down the main corridor.

Viv grabbed the phone and rang CID - "Shaz? Tell Ray and Chris to find the Guv. Chief Inspector Bryan is here and expects to see him at 10.30. Sober him up, pour him into a suit if necessary but get him here. It looks at though he's in for a grade A bollockin."

"Got that? Your job is to tell DI Drake to be ready for interview at 11.00. Tell the lads to be careful, this is serious."

TBC