An audio drama based on archival research and excavations of 19th century barges in the Rochdale Canal basin, and starring Christopher Eccleston & Joyce Branagh, is to be launched on the 4th September 2024. Five northern writers collaborated with the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) and North West production company Bamalam CIC to produce a professional audio drama entitled ‘Scuttled’ as 5×30 minute episodes. It tells the story of a single family living and working on the Rochdale Canal between 1840 and 1922.
‘Scuttled’ was produced by Bamalam Productions and one of the archaeologists involved in the dig, Kelly Griffiths. It is written by Ian Winterton with Neil Bell, Isabel Hague, Janine Lanek, Katie Moore and Paul Rigby, with input from Rochdale Local Studies and the children of St Edward’s School, Rochdale.
The drama is based upon the excavation of the Rochdale Canal basin undertaken in October 2022 by MOLA, ahead of redevelopment works. The partial remains of six vessels were excavated in the canal basin, with two types present; Mersey Flat Type flat dumb barges and a composite iron and wooden framed pontoon or float. The flats dated from the mid-19th century with the float likely from a later date. The vessels were abandoned in 1921 when the Rochdale Canal Company ceased to trade. The site demonstrated how vessels at the end of their life were abandoned and likely exploited for reusable parts.
The link to episode one is here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8564866-scuttled-episode-one
For more details on the project and drama, follow this link: https://www.mola.org.uk/get-involved/iaa-grants/creative-residencies/scuttled-life-rochdale-canal
Industrial Heritage Networks 