I’D LIKE TO KNOW

QI’m fascinated by the Galápagos Islands and all the weird and wonderful creatures that reside there. Can you tell me how long the islands’ giant tortoises live for? Miss P.S., Perth.

AThe average lifespan of these tortoises, which are native to seven of the Galápagos Islands, can be in excess of a hundred years. They spend around sixteen hours a day resting and can grow to four or five feet in length. The differences noted between those living in drier climates, compared to those from colder climates on the islands, contributed to Charles Darwin’s observations and his theory of evolution. These slow-moving herbivores can also survive for a year without food or water.

QCould you please tell me anything about the little girl who looks like she is singing in the new AA breakdown advert, or is it a computerised little girl? Mrs F.P., Beverley.

AThe AA actually posted details on their website giving the hidden stories behind the scenes of that ad. The little girl sitting in the back of the broken-down car giving her rendition of “Proud Mary” certainly steals the show. However, although this cute curly-haired toddler (she’s only two-and-a-half) is real, the voice is that of a six-year-old and the singer’s mouth was superimposed over the tot’s.

QCan you settle a debate, please? Who was the actress who starred in the movie “Out Of Africa”?

Mrs E.H., Liverpool.

AThis was Meryl Streep. She starred alongside Robert Redford in this 1985 big-screen romance.