Hidden Histories: Britain's Oldest Family Businesses

The first of three documentaries following the bosses of some Britain's oldest family businesses as they go on a journey into their remarkable pasts. Richard Balson's family have been butchers for almost 500 years, since Henry VIII was on the throne. He goes back through centuries of butchery to the origin of the British high street. Along the way he discovers how the Balsons have stayed in the butchery business despite scandal and tragedy.

Fiona Toye married into a family that has been making regalia for generations, including OBEs for the Royal Family. The film follows Fiona as she steers this traditional company through the 21st century.

Alex Durtnell's family have been builders for over 400 years. We follow Alex as he travels back through the centuries and rediscovers the houses his family have built, right back to the reign of Elizabeth I.