Manchester's cotton industry created a blueprint for modern, industrial life. But who were the men, women and children that lived in the shadows of the city's towering brick factories? Chris, Dean and Yakub focus on the human stories from inside the mills – contrasting the uncompromising hardship of factory life in Victorian Manchester with the flickers of hope that kept people going. We discuss how ordinary people enjoyed their time off, found friendship and sought love and marriage – despite exhausting shifts, crushing poverty and treacherous conditions, where danger lurked in every corner. Special thanks: Manchester BIPC Image: Lancashire Creative Our podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app.