WORKMATES (9 CLIPS)

Memories of the Yard Workers Derek Griggs describes his memories of the shipyard workers, the camaraderie and the sense of achievement on launch days. He remembers "a real good bunch of blokes and lots of characters".

The Shipyard Community Ged Lalor remembers going to work on the smokey bus. He talks about the drinking and smoking culture that nobody questioned.

Characters in the Yards John McKever talks about the many colourful characters in the yards including Jack David, the shipyard poet. He also remembers the impact of job losses and the tragic decline of the industry.

Clocking In and Out Michael Newton talks about the shipyard workers walking down to work, and remembers how a pie and pint worked a treat at lunchtimes.

Good Comrades, Poor Working Conditions Michael Newton remembers the "good crack" and camaraderie in the shipyards. He also describes the dangers in the yard and the lack of insurance in the early days.

The Black Market Mick Doolan remembers the "black market" in the shipyards with garden tools and toys being made by the workers out of spare metal. He describes how the men had a tremendous sense of pride in their workmanship.

Poem About a Shipyard Worker Mick Doolan reads a poem which evokes the shipyards and the men who worked in them. It touches on the working conditions and the camaraderie between the workers in the Tyneside shipyards.

Characters in the Yards Patricia Armstrong remembers the poets and personalities of the shipyard including Jack David. She recalls the close-knit shipyard community in all its colour and complexity.

Life at Clellands Tony Hall describes life as a fitter and working conditions in the 1970s. He also remembers the drinking culture that made the yard a colourful and lively place to be.