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Antiques Roadshow special to trace the history of nursing

The special edition of the long-running show looks at early uniforms, medical equipment and inspiring stories from the Windrush generation of nurses

The special edition of the long-running show looks at early uniforms, medical equipment and inspiring stories from the Windrush generation of nurses

Antiques Roadshow presenter Fiona Bruce.
Antiques Roadshow presenter Fiona Bruce. Picture: BBC

The history of nursing is going to be available for all to see in a special episode of Antiques Roadshow this month.

The famous BBC show will take viewers on a journey about how the profession has changed from the 19th century to the present day.

The special episode was filmed at St Thomas’ hospital and St Bartholomew’s hospital in London and looks at early uniforms, medical equipment, cartoons about nursing and medals awarded for bravery.

Special programme features comedian and former psychiatric nurse Jo Brand

Comedian Jo Brand.
Comedian Jo Brand. Picture: Alamy

Host Fiona Bruce speaks to comedian Jo Brand, a former psychiatric nurse, and hears about her experience working in emergency mental health clinics as well lighter moments performing in hospital panto.

She also hears the true story of Jennifer Worth, celebrated author of Call the Midwife, and finds out how far the much-loved cast of nurses and midwives were drawn from Ms Worth’s own experience of nursing.

Plus, militaria expert Mark Smith meets a naval nurse who travelled to the Falklands at short notice on a cruise ship converted to treat wounded troops during the Falklands War.

Inspiring stories from the Windrush generation of nurses

Pioneering nurse Mary Seacole
Pioneering nurse Mary Seacole

The episode also includes inspiring stories from the Windrush generation of nurses, who came from overseas to work in the NHS, while the careers of historic figures, such as Betsi Cadwaladr and Mary Seacole are celebrated.

The special episode of Antiques Roadshow will air on BBC One at 7pm on 26 February.


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