This episode charts Viv Graham’s meteoric rise. It follows in his footsteps as he went from being a complete unknown, to single-handedly controlling a pub and club door protection empire, which spanned Newcastle and beyond.

Viv’s first move was to approach one of the city’s most colourful characters – Paul Tucker Grant – a doorman and boxer, who’d later go on to have a glittering acting career. With Paul’s help Viv got his first door – a nightclub in Gateshead. Viv quickly grew a reputation for ruthless efficiency. Troublemakers would be removed and dispatched and no matter who they were they wouldn’t cross Viv Graham. He became known, feared and revered in equal measure. This was a man who would never pick up a weapon but nor would he shy away from dealing with anyone who crossed his path.

More and more pub and club owners sought out Viv’s services and an empire formed – right at the moment Newcastle was exploding as a party capital. The city’s historic Bigg Market was transformed with dozens of trendy new bars and restaurants, while the Tuxedo Princess, a ferry turned nightclub moored on the Tyne, drew in revellers from far and wide.

Viv was well on his way to dominating the city’s bouncing nightlife and anyone who crossed him would face the consequences.

Presenter – Livvy Haydock

Series Producer – Ben Robinson

Technical Producer – Richard Hannaford

Producer – Patrick Kiteley

Archive Researcher – Jackie Mccoy

Journalism Assistant - Tim Fernley

With assistance from Jamie Boyle

Commissioning Executive - Louise Kattenhorn

Assistant Commissioner – Lorraine Okuefuna

Editor and Executive Producer – Clare Fordham

Archive credits

Emmerdale - Yorkshire Television.

Byker Grove - Zenith Entertainment.

The Tube - Tyne Tees Television.