A History of Tyneside

Victorian Tyneside (1x5)

Air date: Nov 09, 2006

The Swing Bridge across the River Tyne at Newcastle shook up industries on Tyneside including armaments and shipbuilding. Turbinia, the world’s first steam turbine powered ship designed by Charles Parsons, was the fastest ship afloat in its day. The episode includes a detailed look at the influence and legacy of visionary industrialist William Armstrong, and the background to the popular song, “The Blaydon Races”. Also included is a look at the beginnings of Newcastle United and how it became the best supported football team in England.