Welcome back to Dark Tides, where we explore the shadowy history of smuggling along the North Devon coast. This Podcast was created by Devon History Tours and today we are going to delve deeper into the organized gangs that controlled this illicit trade, the authorities who fought to stop them, and the ingenious methods used to transport and conceal contraband. From hidden caves to secret tunnels, from brandy wine to French lace, this is the story of North Devon's shadow economy.

In our first episode, we introduced you to North Devon's rugged coastline and the economic conditions that made smuggling not just profitable, but for many, a necessary means of survival. Today, we'll explore how this illicit trade was organized, the networks that sustained it, and the cat-and-mouse game played between smugglers and the authorities.

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Until next time, keep your eyes on the horizon and remember history's greatest adventures often happened in the shadows.