Badger: The Drama and Real Life Book

The BBC series Badger is a hybrid mix of TV's most successful ingredients; the cop show, and the nature programme. Starring former Soldier, Soldier Jerome Flynn as PC Tom McCabe, the drama is based on the work of Police Wildlife Liaison Officers (PWLOs) and the extra voluntary work they do protecting British wildlife. While suspicions about unabashed ratings grabbing are rife--couldn't they rescue a hedgehog from the garden of a nearby celebrity chef while they're at it?--the series itself veers away from this pitfall thanks to astute characterisation by creator Kieran Prendiville (Roughnecks, Ballykissangel). Written by Christopher Kenworthy, who wrote the real-life newspaper article which provided the inspiration for series, Badger the book is superior to most of its ilk. Factual in tone and very well researched, it is interesting and accessible to all ages. Initial chapters follow the story of the TV show--from conception to broadcast, the input of the cast and crew is reported--although it is their attitudes and opinions on the series' subject matter, together with a small biography each, which is focused on rather than "celeb" stuff. A short show-by-show episode guide is also included. Later chapters then go on to use the series as a backdrop to the topic Kenworthy really wishes to write about; British wildlife and the threat it faces. Without over-sentimentalising, the author discusses the threats faced by wild creatures from modern society and crime alike; he's also happy to point out how destructive those animals--on set and off--can be in return! Real-life PWLOs are profiled, as is the work of animal sanctuaries and countryside vets. Steering well clear of illustrating the gory injuries mentioned in the text, full colour photography does add an "awwww!"-factor, but with Rolf Harris nowhere in sight, this is about as serious and informative as a TV tie-in can get. --Helen Lamont.Read More