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When the Boat Comes In

Set in Gallowshields on Tyneside between the 2 World Wars, this story follows the life of ex-sergeant Jack Ford and the Seaton family as they deal with the aftermath of the Great War, the Great 1920s Depression and trade union activists.

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Cast & Crew See All

James Bolam
Jack Ford
James Garbutt
Bill Seaton
Jean Heywood
Bella Seaton

Season 4 Episode Guide See All

Episode 1

Back to Dear Old Blighty

Six years have passed. Jack has lost his wealth from boot-legging in the Wall Street Crash and, in debt to gangsters, flees New York as a stowaway on a cargo ship. Arriving in Liverpool with little money he meets the kindly Canon Penfold, who gets him manual work and a room in a hostel. However he has to share with Charlie Rowse, a bullying, embittered ex-teacher who forces him to drink and beats him up. Finally Jack hits back at him and quits the hostel. A chance meeting with Morty Black, an old business friend from New York, gives him the means to head back to Gallowshield.

Where to Watch

Awards

  • 1977 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Drama Series/Serial - nominated
  • 1977 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Actor - nominated
  • 1977 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Design - nominated
  • 1978 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Drama Series/Serial - nominated

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