Stop groaning and give me a break! As y'all know, I am a news/current affairs addict and frankly that is probably the most depressing hobby you could ever wish to avoid so if I come across something that shows the better half - oh alright then! - the better ten percent of human nature then just let me wallow!
I have mentioned before my liking for two TV programmes currently running on Channel4 and Channel More4. As of this week they seem to be running between 18.00 and 20.00. The first is The Secret Life of the Zoo based on the truly remarkable staff and 'inhabitants' of Chester Zoo. There are two excellent characteristics in this programme. First, the film-makers let the keepers and staff of the zoo speak for themselves It is quickly obvious that they are an intelligent bunch of mostly young people with great affection and interest in the species under their control. Secondly, the species which the film-makers choose for, so to speak, 'starry' roles are not the usual lions and tigers. Instead, we are introduced to chameleons, aardvarks, crabs, baboons and similar creatures normally considered to be definitely 'below stairs' in the animal hierarchy. It is both a fascinating programme and an entrancing one. Do yourselves a favour and look out for it!
The second programme is The Supervet, based on the veterinary practice of Professor Noel Fitzpatrick. He truly is a 'supervet' who has personally invented a number of devices to aid damaged animals and who has pioneered innumerable new surgical procedures to repair them. His operating theatre is truly impressive with as many surgical assistants in it as you would expect to see in a hospital. But perhaps the most impressive thing about the programme are the owners of the animals. Call me soppy if you like, but the genuine love and affection these people have for their animals is really moving. It is a never-ending display of the very best of human nature, and watching, as I do, non-stop 24-hours news, it is a genuine relief!
I loved the series "Our Zoo" about George Mottershead. I would really like to visit the Chester Zoo one day.
Posted by: missred | Wednesday, 15 August 2018 at 15:41