while exploring a country churchyard, thirteen year-old nicholas is ensnared by a vampire. the ruthless sir dashwood has a crypt full of almost bloodless youngsters in his "wine cellar".

needing a fresh supply, he forces nicholas into his service as his apprentice to ensnare fresh victims below.

a middle school expedition camps close to the churchyard offering a potential vintage. nicholas saves adrian from a cliff fall. when the vampire is ensnared and staked, nicholas escapes in the school bus only to fall, with adrian, into mr squires, a petty crook's hands and be forced to pick pockets or be delivered to the police. a skeleton army creates havoc and nicholas delivers squires to another vampire.

nicholas is due to arise again so beware of low flying vampires.