NEWS RELEASE
11 April 2012
TITANIC -THE MISSING LINK ON UTV
When Titanic launched in May 1911 it was a triumph for two ambitious local men Lord William Pirrie and his chief naval architect - and nephew - Thomas Andrews.
Last Spring the Pirrie and Andrews families gathered quietly in Belfast on the eve of
the centenary to remember all who lost their lives in 1912 and in particular to
remember their uncle and cousin Thomas Andrews breaking a longstanding family
silence over the ship. A UTV documentary team were there to capture the moment
for Titanic – The Missing Link which will be shown on Sunday 15 April at 10pm.
This documentary captures the family’s exploration of their history including a visit to
the former Pirrie residence in London where the deal with the White Star Line was
sealed. The film also journeys back in time to a whitewashed cottage on the west
coast of Scotland, where the story of Titanic really began. Titanic – The Missing
Link reveals exclusive access to the family archives including a never seen before
image of Titanic.
Co-producer, Susie Millar said: "About four years ago I met one of the Pirrie family at
the old Harland and Wolff drawing offices and she told me about the reunion planned
for May 2011. I knew right away it would make a wonderful story. We worked
closely with the extended family to make sure their story was told properly and
accurately. It is an untold story of Titanic."
Clare Delargy, co-producer said: “I realised as soon as I heard about this story how
important it was to record it not just for Belfast but for the history of Titanic. As a
family the Pirrie’s had never before spoken about their involvement in the
construction of the ship nor about the subsequent tragedy.
“When they met last May it was a very rare opportunity to hear another side of
Titanic's story from those who were closest to it. This story represents a very
important piece of our history at a time when we led the world with our ship
engineering. It was a privilege for my co- producer Susie Millar and me to make this
documentary and work with the Pirrie family.”
Michael Wilson, Managing Director UTV said: “This programme gives a fascinating
insight into the family behind Titanic who have decided now after 100 years to talk
about the ship and the amazing achievement it was for their family.
“This story has never been told before and it is one which I believe will capture the
imaginations of our viewers.”
Don’t miss Titanic – The Missing Link on UTV this Sunday 15 April at 10pm.
-EndsFor further information please contact Michelle Cassidy at UTV Communications on
028 9026 2129