Local PC Ben Jones (Jason Hughes) steps into CID and DS Scott's shoes to help Barnaby investigate the garrotting of two-house hunters outside a deserted -- supposedly haunted -- house. The owner is anxious to sell, but the estate agent, Harriet Davis , who is representing Jack Magwood, seems reluctant to let anyone see the property. This episode is the first appearance of DC Ben Jones (Jason Hughes). Guest stars include George Baker (I Claudius) and Ruth Gemmell (Bridgerton) .