Glaswegians invited to share stories of Taggart filming for new archive

Taggart: The People’s Archive will tell the stories of the Scottish public’s role in the success of one of the longest-running police dramas in the world.

Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) are looking for anyone who has memories of the show, whether on location shoots, working as extras, providing props and expertise, or even playing one of the corpses, to come forward with their stories.

To mark the 40th anniversary of the pilot episode airing, the university Archive Centre will host a mock police station next month, with retired detectives taking ‘witness statements’ during drop-in sessions, to capture Glaswegians’ memories of the show’s filming.

Taggart star Dr Blythe Duff, who donated all her scripts from the show to the archives in 2018, will join volunteers over three days, from September 6-8.

Blythe, who played Jackie Reid in the show and is an honorary graduate and cultural fellow of GCU, said: “Everyone I meet has a Taggart story: ‘Oh you filmed in my auntie’s house’ or ‘in our street’, or ‘I was an extra for the day’.

“I’ve worked with so many people who watched us film and it inspired them to become directors, writers or join the police.

“It made me realise how important these stories are to the fabric of the series.”

Blythe donated scripts from 95 episodes, along with a treasure trove of Taggart material, including photos, awards, memorabilia, and press cuttings, a selection of which will be on display during the drop-in sessions.

Once the stories are collected, they will be added to display boards and maps in an ‘incident room’ set up on campus.

Blythe added: “The police were always incredibly supportive of the series when we filmed and they are ready to step up to the mark and have some fun as we recreate an incident room where the public can give us witness statements and hopefully some memorabilia, which will be used as evidence to corroborate their story.”

Archivist at GCU, Carole McCallum said: “What better way is there to give Glasgow, and Scotland, a voice in the Taggart story than through the people who loved and supported it?

“Giving people the chance to add their stories to the programme’s legacy ensures they too have ownership of Taggart’s proud heritage. It also gives us a chance to break barriers and show that archives are for everyone.

“Blythe’s vision is completely aligned with our ethos so we are delighted she has chosen us as her partner in the creation of this people’s archive.

“We are interested in every story, big and small, but our success in creating this new collection depends on people coming forward. Don’t be shy – step forward as a witness so current and future generations better understand this iconic crime drama.”

Creative Director of Drama at STV, Sarah Brown said: “We’re thrilled that Glasgow Caledonian University is launching its special Taggart archive on its 40th anniversary and can’t wait to hear people’s stories of how the drama impacted their lives.”

Taggart: The People’s Archive

Drop-in sessions – September 6-8

Glasgow Caledonian University Archive Centre

Sir Alex Ferguson Library

Opening times:

• Wednesday 6 September – 11am – 4pm

• Thursday 7 September – 11am – 7pm

• Friday 8 September – 10.30pm – 3pm

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