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The Clyde is famous throughout the world for its shipbuilding. It has been called the cradle of steam navigation and is the birthplace of the countless liners, warships and cargo ships. David Hayman explores the stories of four ships, built on the river Clyde that helped forge links with countries throughout the Commonwealth of Nations. From iconic ships such as Cutty Sark and HMS Hood to the lesser-known CS Mackay-Bennett, a ship that laid the foundations of a Victorian communications revolution and played a crucial role in the world's worst maritime disaster. Also, David investigates the story of a paddle steamer called Robert E. Lee, and the controversial role Glasgow shipbuilders and captains played in the American Civil War. This four-part series travels the world to tell the fascinating story of ships built during the golden age of ship-building at Clydebank, Glasgow - a time when "Clydebuilt" was synonymous with "world class".
BBC Scotland Science Production MMXIII
4) HMS Hood
David Hayman travels to Scapa Flow to experience what life was like for the hundreds of people working to protect the vital North Atlantic convoys. In Australia he uncovers the legacy of her flag waving visits and he tries his hand at riveting to understand what it took to make this battlecrusier strong and watertight. David also investigates why this 'mighty' ship was flawed from the very day she was launched.