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Battle of the Giants

Episode 1 of 4

Series looking back at the 1980s. A look at how Thatcher took on two Welsh industrial giants, resulting in a long and hard-fought battle.

This new series begins with the story of how Margaret Thatcher took on two industrial giants in Wales - the nationalised coal and steel industries. It resulted in a battle fought longer and harder than in any other part of Britain. The miners and the steel workers were symbolic of an old trade union-dominated world that Mrs Thatcher wanted to destroy. Union leader Tyrone O'Sullivan and Sian James - who helped feed families on the breadline - reveal the emotional inside story of the miners' defeat. The steel workers were also hit by huge job losses but saved themselves - and Port Talbot - by doing a deal with Mrs Thatcher. Hopes for the future were expressed by Mike Peters who became a national hero in the 80s with his hit 'New South Wales', an anthem to the vanishing world of chapels, choirs and collieries.

30 minutes

Last on

Sun 12 Jun 2016 22:35

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Credits

Role Contributor
Producer Steve Humphries
Director Steve Humphries
Producer Andy Attenburrow
Editor Andy Attenburrow

Broadcasts

Mike Peters on his passion for Wales

Producer Mike Humphries relates his memorable meeting with musician Mike Peters.