A look at Thorncliffe's extensive industrial heritage - from the 18th century to the 1930s.

Newton and Chambers Co., based in Thorncliffe, near Sheffield, has a rich industrial history, and this evocative and strikingly filmed story begins in period costume with a reconstruction of the original Mr Chambers and Mr Newton forging their commercial vision. Their company expands into one of the biggest industrial enterprises in England, spanning coalmining, iron and steelmaking and more. Rockingham Colliery features in this film, plus coal distillation, coking, steelmaking, and a look at the development of coal by-product, Izal Oil, a disinfectant. Look out for the marvellous tracking shots across the steelworks; the cinematographer and director remain unknown as sadly the film lacks any credits.

A survey of the activities - coal mining, steel production, chemicals - of the Newton Chambers Co. Begins with a historical introduction in period costume of the setting up of the enterprise in 1792. A detailed look at the coal mining activities including the Rockingham colliery, the aerial ropeway to Thorncliffe, the coal distillation plant, the coking operations.
Followed by the steel production plant and related facilities. The chemical plant and the use of coal oils from the coal distillation plant. The testing of Izal disinfectant.