Holding On

Period drama serial Holding On told of the life and times of the East End Wheelwright family over much of the 20th century from 1903 right up to 1970. The story began in 1903 with Dora Wheelwright struggling to bring up her kids, Charlie and Vi, following the death of her Stevedore husband in an accident. Charlie as an adult found himself caught up in the horrors of world war one and then struggles to survive throughout the depressed 1920's. He becomes involved in the General Strike before having to go through another world war and it's aftermath. Post war there is the changing face of the East End. The family lived in Steadman Street.

Directed by —, Holding On leans on a strong ensemble — Mary Healey, Margaret Flint, John Nettles — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1977.