True North
Season 7
Returning series of documentaries from BBC Northern Ireland reflecting life in modern-day Northern Ireland.
Where to Watch True North • Season 7
5 Episodes
- Gift from DeathE1
Gift from DeathGift from Death tells the extraordinary story of how some people from Northern Ireland are donating their bodies to medical science upon their death. In this revealing and intimate film, we try to understand why people choose to do this and learn the value such a gift has for the education of our young doctors at Queens University, Belfast - The World's Oldest FamilyE2
The World's Oldest Family The Donnelly family from rural County Armagh are thought to be the oldest group of siblings in the world, collectively they add up to an incredible 1,064 years. In a film that looks at what it means to grow older in today's society, we follow the family as they attempt to get a world record. Austin Donnelly (70) and his 13 siblings, Sean (92), Maureen (91), Eileen (89), Peter (86), Mairead (85), Rose (84), Tony (82), Terry (80), Seamus (79), Brian (75), Kathleen (74), Colm (72) and Leo (70), came to the realisation that all their ages added up to a grand total of 1,117 (at the time) after Austin decided, playfully, to do a bit of maths at his oldest sister Maureen's 90th birthday party earlier last year. From then on the seed was planted and Austin was now determined to find out if they really are the oldest group of siblings in the world. Sadly, before being able to complete his world record journey, Austin passed away earlier this year. His twin Leo, has taken up the mantle to complete the family's world record attempt in his brother's honour. Following Leo's efforts, the film weaves a stunning portrait of a large family from rural Northern Ireland growing up in the most turbulent of times. Incredible family archive helps to bring to life personal recollections and experiences. The Donnellys, in all their years, are our guides through a magical historical journey, with they themselves at the centre of it. - Liam Clarke - A Matter of Life and DeathE4
Liam Clarke - A Matter of Life and DeathLiam Clarke was one of Northern Ireland's most fearless journalists, in spite of threats and legal battles. Three years ago Liam met his most personal battle of all when he was diagnosed with cancer. But with the support of his wife Kathy and strength from his Buddhist faith, Liam was determined to face up to dying with honesty and courage. Aaron Black's intimate and moving film follows Liam and his family as they come to terms with his life and death. - The Mercy ShipE5
The Mercy ShipNine medics from Northern Ireland put the comfort of their homes and day jobs on hold and travel to Africa for the experience of a lifetime. They have volunteered to help on The Africa Mercy, the world's biggest floating hospital, as it visits the island of Madagascar. They are challenged by extreme medical conditions rarely seen, if ever, in Europe.