For the last 40 years, BBC stations outside London have reflected the richness and diversity of provincial life. The newest of these, in Newcastle, was opened today by HRH The Prince of Wales. To celebrate the BBC's regional operation, Ray Gosling explores the picture it has painted of Britain. With the help of people throughout the British Isles - and with examples from BBC regional programmes of the last years - he explores this tradition. It's a journey that brings documentary film-maker Philip Donnellan back to Wearside to recall the making of his classic study of shipbuilding, Sunderland Oak; that prompts young people in Northern Ireland and the Isle of Lewis to discuss their future; and asks playwrights Alan Plater and John Byrne to look again at the roots of their drama. It's an odyssey that introduces bhangra dancing, potholing, life in a tepee, the music of George Lloyd - and more! Cameraman RICHARD RANKEN
Film editors DEREK INGLIS, JANE WOOD
Executive producer JOHN MAPPLEBECK
Producer RICHARD ELSE
BBC Newcastle