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There has been much talk that we are in danger of heading back to the 1970s following train strikes, the threat of further widespread industrial action, not to mention generationally high rates of inflation.

Blaise Tapp writes: The mere mention of the 1970s sends shivers down the spines of those with long enough memories, and with some good reason too because that was the decade of the three-day week, blackouts, rampant racism and discrimination, droopy moustaches and avocado bathroom suites.

The BBC’s classic Life on Mars series saw its principal character sent back to the 70s, which introduced younger generations to the darkest aspects of an era that many wish to forget, although not everybody. Lest we forget that this was a time that introduced us to Star Wars, Jaws, David Bowie, ABBA and children’s TV classics such as the Magic Roundabout.

While there were many challenges with the decade that gave us kipper ties and Love Boat, it is perhaps a little unfair to consign all of it to some sort of giant nostalgia dustbin, or, in keeping with the time, a floral pedal bin.

1972: Hair cuts on the pavement due to power cuts. Photo: Getty Images

Blaise Tapp: Mention of the 1970s sends shivers down the spine!