Introduction
When the Boat Comes In is a British television period drama produced by the BBC between 1976 and 1981.
Set in Gallowshields on Tyneside between the two 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.



Outline
Les Mallow, the local branch chairman, asks Jack to help him become district secretary of the fitters union. Jack refuses. He then persuades the branch to vote against a strike and to provide financial help to Mrs Downey, the widow of a union member. Tom is awaiting trial for theft. Widow Downey – who informed on Tom – is evicted. Jack helps her recover her furniture by breaking into her flat. He then lets himself be arrested. Both he and Tom are sent to Durham jail. A month later, Jack is released to a hero’s welcome. As planned, he is now favourite to beat Mallow in the election for district secretary, a post with a salary of £400 a year.
When the Boat Comes In Series
You can find a full index and overview of When the Boat Comes In here.
Production & Filming Details
- Release Date: 01 April 1976.
- Rating: 12.
- Running Time: 50 minutes (per episode).
- Country: UK.
- Language: English.