IAM researching a television programme on the memories of those who did not conform to the strict teachings of the church on sexual behaviour in Ireland during the first half of the century.

Sex before marriage was taboo and those who stepped out of line were often treated very harshly.

Women suffered the worst consequences. Those who had illegitimate babies were often rejected by their families and sent to punitive Magdalen homes.

Some made the traumatic journey to England for an abortion. For some, emigration was the only way to escape the stigma of being condemned as a fallen woman.

If you have memories of this kind of experience please write in confidence.

BEVERLEY HOPWOOD, Testimony Films, 12 Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RS.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.