As dawn rolls in to meet the ancient shores of the Isle of Man, the capital’s harbour is a hive of activity as the crews and shore staff of the oldest ferry operator in the world are busy at work. Just as they did in the nineteenth century, these men and women sustain the lives and businesses of the Manx people. Now celebrating 175 dedicated years on the seas – this is the story of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. Told through the eyes and ears of those who have watched it grow, this enchanting tale begins with the company’s establishment in 1830, with a single wooden built paddle steamer, taking us right up to today's world of high speed SeaCat fleets and Ro Pax ferries. Using a vivid array of artefacts, photographs, archive film and insightful interviews, this captivating programme recreates the sights and sounds of the past, as Alex Brindley narrates the colourful fortunes of the Steam Packet Company over 175 eventful years. This superb production charts the unique histories of the vessels that have ceaselessly navigated their way through political change, two world wars, takeover bids, the emergence of air travel and the tempestuous Manx weather, to maintain a vital lifeline across the Irish Sea for nearly two centuries. From the Mona’s Isle to the Ben-My-Chree, the Steam Packet ferries have always provided a sense of pride and security for the people of the Isle of Man. And as they catch a glimpse of the Super Seacat sailing out into the sunset, they hope that its new crew will continue to do so for many more years to come. (Available June 2005) |