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The Pakamac Years

Episode 1 of 3

Steve Punt's history of unhip yet mainstream UK begins with how practical rainwear epitomised the 50s and 60s. From May 2010.

Steve Punt presents a new three part history of the Britain that's ubiquitous yet unashamedly uncool. Steve argues the nation's recent past has been hijacked by the fashionistas and that it's time to celebrate the past as it really was - deeply unhip. Forget the Rolling Stones, Mary Quant and the Aston Martin, what Britons really love is a nice melody, a sensible coat and a reliable motor...

Steve re-imagines the 50s and 60s as the Pakamac Years. He argues that it wasn't beatniks that epitomised the spirit of the era - but the foldaway mac. The Pakamac flew off the shelves in their tens of thousands as Britons rejoiced in the sheer novelty and practicality of a plastic raincoat which you could pop in your handbag. Steve also considers the importance of anoraks, cagoules, parkas and snorkels as emblems of uncool Britain.

Producer: Laurence Grissell
(repeat).

30 minutes

Last on

Thu 28 Apr 2016 01:30

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Credit

Role Contributor
Producer Laurence Grissell

Broadcasts

  • Sat 29 May 2010 10:30
  • Mon 20 Sep 2010 23:30
  • Wed 27 Apr 2016 06:30
  • Wed 27 Apr 2016 13:30
  • Wed 27 Apr 2016 20:30
  • Thu 28 Apr 2016 01:30