Season 1

1. A Way of Life

Sam and his mother arrive in Skellerton and try to settle in with their relatives.

1973-06-12 • 60 min

2. Poor Law

The Labour Exchange is looking for Sam’s mother. Sam is taken on a tour of the local pit by his grandfather.

1973-06-19 • 60 min

3. Leaving Home

Sam is bullied at school. Sam’s mother starts a new relationship with Alan. Sam doesn’t like this and runs away.

1973-06-26 • 60 min

4. For Ever and Ever and Ever and Ever

Sam is found.

1973-07-03 • 60 min

5. A Day to Remember

Sam is taken on a day out to the seaside.

1973-07-11 • 60 min

6. The Cost of Living

Sam’s mother and new partner set up a family home.

1973-07-18 • 60 min

7. Out of the Blue

Sam’s family come under pressure from the disapproving locals.

1973-07-25 • 60 min

8. United We Stand

Sam discovers a book written by his father. The pit workers are given notice.

1973-07-31 • 60 min

9. The Beginning of Winter

Sam's mother falls pregnant. Sam’s father sends a letter asking for money to be sent to him so that he can come home from Canada.

1973-08-07 • 60 min

10. Where the Heart Is

Dora passes away in hospital giving birth to a son, Leslie. Alan, devastated, decides to go south to look for work, leaving his mother to care for the baby. Sam’s uncle George goes with him.

1973-08-14 • 60 min

11. Home From Home

Frank is worried about Sam’s education and his grandfather wants to send him to a charity boarding school. Alan and George are disillusioned in the south and George returns home.

1973-08-21 • 60 min

12. No Going Back

Sam is at boarding school, hating it and longing to go home, but can’t, because of a diphtheria outbreak in Skellerton. After a fight at the school, he runs away and walks the fifty miles home.

1973-08-28 • 60 min

13. Breadwinners

Sam’s uncle Toby sets up a garment factory in the old chapel, providing work for the women of Skellerton, leaving the men at home. Sam finally goes down the pit with his grandfather.

1973-09-04 • 60 min