Episode 3: Men and Work Voices from the Forest

In this episode we hear from Forest of Dean men whose working lives were irrevocably changed by the closing of the collieries, foundries and related occupations in the twenty years from 1945. They describe the dangers and threats to personal safety in those work places and the consequences for long term health. Shortages of labour led to overseas recruitment. This was a period too that saw the conscription of young men into the armed services leading to development of new skills for some, as well as experiences in Germany and Korea. What was the impact of all of this on the mind-set of Forest men as they faced a future that for some meant new jobs in bright new factories?

Presented by Dr Roger Deeks, with contributions from Emily Wood, Bob Bassett, George Hogg, Charlie Penn, Fred Pensom, Jim Orpin, Esmond Tovey, Mike Hinton, Maurice Phelps and Roy Mills. Thanks also to Caroline Prosser-Lodge, Cheryl Mayo and Emily Hughes. This podcast is made possible through the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and the University of Gloucestershire.