Michael Hinchcliffe

When honest young Tolly is forced on the run with ‘Black Jack’, a villainous ruffian, adventure and mishap are never far away. As the two enter a world of body-snatchers, private lunatic asylums, and travelling fairs, they find friendship in the most unlikely places.

George Purse is the gamekeeper for the duke's estate, a role he takes seriously. His position gives him a certain status, but he has an uneasy relationship with some of the locals, not least those who turn to poaching

The workers of Milton Colliery prepare for a royal visit from Prince Charles.

A month after the royal visit, the workers at Milton Colliery are brought crashing back down to earth by an underground explosion.