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Tales from the Old Bailey

Tales from the Old Bailey: Episode 1: The Blackguard Boys

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The Blackguard Boys

Episode 1

Episode 1: The Blackguard Boys

BBC Two - Tales from the Old Bailey, The Blackguard Boys

Two boys are caught stealing laundry that has been put out to dry on bushes.

Factual drama series drawing on the archives of the Old Bailey online project. Two boys are caught stealing laundry that has been put out to dry on bushes.

Factual drama series which draws on the archives of the Old Bailey online project to bring to life the most extraordinary trials from history. Tales of crime and punishment are laid bare as the courtroom fills, and as witnesses, lawyers, judge and jury hear of crimes across three centuries. Each film follows one trial from beginning to end, flashing back to the crime scene as the story develops. The court reporter provides a vital link between past and present, guiding the audience through the intricacies of each case. 

The Blackguard Boys - 1731

Two 11- and 12-year-old boys are caught stealing laundry that has been put out to dry on bushes on common land. In an attempt to save his own skin, Thomas Coleman reveals his part in a gang of orphaned boys known as 'blackguards'. Coleman reveals crime after crime, and paints a picture of the life he and the boys lead - the real life Oliver Twist. He stands trial but is acquitted, but his testimony sees other boys from his gang convicted and transported.

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Factual drama series which draws on the archives of the Old Bailey online project.

Factual drama series which draws on the archives of the Old Bailey online project to bring to life the most extraordinary trials from history.

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Until 03/01/2009 BBC Two Wales (analogue) was known simply as BBC Two Wales. BBC Two Wales (digital) was BBC 2W. From 03/01/2009 BBC Two Wales schedules on both analogue and digital became identical

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Tales from the Old Bailey

Episode 1: The Blackguard Boys

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