Sam

A Way of Life

Jun 12, 1973

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

Poor Law

Jun 19, 1973

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

Leaving Home

Jun 26, 1973

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

For Ever and Ever and Ever and Ever

Jul 3, 1973

Sam is found.

A Day to Remember

Jul 11, 1973

Sam is taken on a day out to the seaside.

The Cost of Living

Jul 18, 1973

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

Out of the Blue

Jul 25, 1973

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

United We Stand

Jul 31, 1973

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

The Beginning of Winter

Aug 7, 1973

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.

Where the Heart Is

Aug 14, 1973

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.

Home From Home

Aug 21, 1973

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.

No Going Back

Aug 28, 1973

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.

Breadwinners

Sep 4, 1973

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.