Family feature on TV

Young couple took part in a science experiment on BBC

A YOUNG Dundee family featured on a popular BBC television show this week.

The Chalmers family, from Maryfield, appeared on The One Show.

Chris and his wife Mala were filmed for a feature about foetal movement during pregnancy, along with little Nico, who was at the time still in the womb.

One Show presenter Sarah Mack visited Dundee University with the pair last year to learn more about work being conducted by psychology student Viola Marx.

Viola’s study investigated the interaction between the foetus and its responses to physical touch on a pregnant woman’s stomach.

The interactions between Chris, Mala and presenter Sarah were measured and produced a number of different responses from the then-unborn Nico.

Chris, Mala and eight-month-old Nico’s appearance on the show was beamed into millions of homes as they revealed some of the findings from the study.

Former Morgan Academy pupil Chris said: “The BBC was filming on the back of a Dundee University research study about foetal movement during pregnancy.

“It was specifically on how babies react in the womb to touch from mum, dad and strangers.

“The research paper has already been published and the filming was to show the findings.”

He added: “Viola, the author of the study, posted on Facebook a request asking for expectant couples to take part.

“We found the study very interesting and were pleased to take part in such a unique project.

“It’s amazing to see how your baby reacts to touch before they are even born.

“The filming took half a day to complete.

“It was good to see the edited version on the show.

“We were excited to watch the episode as a family of three – it was surreal to see Nico in Mala’s belly on TV.

“I didn’t have to say too much so my Dundonian twang didn’t feature.”

Chris and Mala with baby Nico.