Seven reasons why Nationwide was great
This 1991 clip from the Lime Grove Story looks back at Nationwide's glory years
- Published
Nationwide was a fixture of teatime telly for 14 years.
Launched on 9 September 1969, it helped to spawn TV consumer journalism and highlighted unusual stories from around the country that were a true slice of British life.
A forerunner of the One Show, it featured everything from the workings of the House of Commons to a skateboarding duck.
Here are seven clips that show why some people believe that Nationwide is the greatest television programme of all time.
1: It reflected a changing Britain
British folk discover exotic foods
In this clip from 9 October 1969, the programme looked at how the long-repressed English palate was dabbling in the exotic.
But what on earth were these 'sweet potatoes', and how do you cook them?
2: It stood up for the ordinary consumer
Just how much does a car actually cost? Nationwide does some sums...
"Ten pounds a week to run a car? You could buy a house for less, couldn't you?"
Nationwide did the sums on 13 January 1970 to work out just how much it cost to keep your motor on the road.
3: It looked out for the kids as well
A school discussion about pocket money
This school discussion about pocket money, from 14 July 1970, led to the kind of intelligent economic discourse modern politicians might only dream of.
4: It explored divisions in society, big or small
The tale of Rickinghall Inferior and Rickinghall Superior
On 2 June 1971, the programme visited East Suffolk. And West Suffolk. And East Suffolk. And West Suffolk.
The tale of Rickinghall Inferior or Rickinghall Superior was almost like a miniature version of the Cold War.
5: It kept abreast of the latest crazes
Clackers conquered the nation's playgrounds in 1971
Modern kids: you can keep your Pokémon, your wi-fi devices and your 'video' games.
Back in the day - 5 October 1971 - all they had were Clackers. Good, old-fashioned, potentially deadly Clackers.
6: It promoted gender equality
OK, so this one is very much of its time, but it's the thought that counts, right?
Nicky Woodhead struck a blow for gender equality... by pinching men's bums. This clip was first broadcast on 24 June 1971.
7: It was a friend to animals
An obituary for Herbie the skateboarding duck
Herbie the skateboarding duck became a star thanks to Nationwide in 1978.
Sadly he quacked his final quack five years later, leading to this fitting memorial from Sue Lawley on 23 March 1983.
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