In 2021, Davie Donaldson sought to solve the long-standing mystery of the Unknown Bairn, a young boy whose body washed up on a Scottish beach and was never claimed. Since that time, a number of Scottish Travellers have contacted him with stories of children being forcibly removed from their families. This becomes the catalyst for Davie’s investigation into why this happened and whether it was sanctioned by the church and state. Along the way, the mystery that began it all re-enters Davies’ life, taking him to a truth that’s been hidden in the shadows for too long.

Presenter: Davie Donaldson
Producer: Kate Bissell
Research: Kate Bissell and Emily Essen
Story Consultants: Jack Kibble White and Kirsty Williams
Music, Mix and Sound Design: Julian Corrie
Executive Editor: Susie Crumless
Commissioning Editor: Heather Kane Darling