The World's Greatest Bridges
The Iron Bridge, Shropshire
Season 1 Episode 3 of 6
In rural Shropshire, Rob Bell reveals how a breakthrough in iron production during the 18th century allowed structures to be built from metal on a scale that had hitherto been impossible. This led architect Thomas Farnolls Pritchard and ironmaster Abraham Darby to formulate a bold plan to design a bridge. However, their pioneering wonder was not easy to accomplish - the investors took fright and threatened to pull out, Pritchard died a month into the construction, and Darby staked his fortune on the project. The elegant Iron Bridge, which spans the River Severn, was the product of their endeavours
The World's Greatest Bridges airs on Channel 5 HD at 3:00 AM, Wednesday 2 October. (Subtitles, repeat.)
Topics
News ➝ Current Affairs
Documentary
Rob Bell
Presenter
Phil Stein
Producer
Graham Cooper
Series Producer
Jeff Anderson
Executive Producer