The District Nurse
The District Nurse is a British television series, produced by BBC Wales and shown on BBC One between 1984 and 1987. The series was a period drama created by Julia Smith and Tony Holland and starred Nerys Hughes as Megan Roberts, the titular district nurse fighting to improve living conditions for the people living in a poverty stricken mining town, Pencwm, in south Wales during the late 1920s. The School scenes were filmed at Pont-y-gof school in Ebbw Vale, shortly before the old school was demolished. The children and teachers at the school were involved in the first two series. The outdoor school and street scenes were filmed at a small village near Tredegar. Most of the houses used have now been demolished, however the street still remains. In the third series, shown in 1987 and set in the early 1930s, Megan had moved on to the seaside town of Glanmor where she worked with a father/son pair of doctors - Emlyn Isaacs and James Isaacs.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in the industrial North of England during the 1930s, the film follows the life of Nurse Megan Roberts, a dedicated district nurse who provides essential medical care to the working-class community. She faces numerous challenges, including poverty, disease, and social inequality, while striving to improve the lives of her patients. Her personal life is also complex, intertwined with her professional duties and the struggles of the era.
Critical Reception
The District Nurse was generally well-received by critics for its poignant portrayal of social issues and its strong performances, particularly from Brenda Blethyn. It captured the harsh realities of life for working-class families during a difficult economic period.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its authentic depiction of the era and the struggles of its characters.
- Brenda Blethyn's performance as the determined nurse was a standout element.
- The film effectively highlights social inequities and the importance of community support.
Google audience: Audience reception is not widely documented, but reviews typically note the film's historical significance and emotional impact.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the novel of the same name by Bridgit. T. Wilson, which drew on her own experiences as a district nurse.
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