Main content
Sorry, this episode is not currently available

St Ives to St Day

Michael Portillo explores the West Country between the wars and discovers a Cornish fisherman, who, although he began painting only in his seventies, inspired established artists from the capital.

Michael Portillo boards the Great Western Railway at the Cornish seaside resort of St Ives. Steered by his 1930s Bradshaw’s Guide, this week he explores the West Country between the wars.

In Britain's first studio pottery, Michael attempts a decorative wax technique and feels the heat of the firing kiln. He discovers a Cornish fisherman, who, although he began painting only in his seventies, inspired established artists from the capital.

Along the Cornish Riviera at Hayle, Michael joins a family on holiday in a railway carriage called Harvey. From Redruth, Michael makes his way to the former mining village of St Day, where Feast Day celebrations are in full flow.

29 minutes

Clip

Music Played

  • They Might Be Giants

    Man, It's So Loud In Here

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Michael Portillo
Series Editor Alison Kreps
Production Company Boundless West
Director George Boyle
Executive Producer John Comerford

Broadcasts

Steam railway programmes on Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ iPlayer

A collection of programmes from the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ archives on the beauty of steam locomotives.