Vinnie scores a hit
For a number of years I believe that we have seen an anti-rural-pursuits agenda displayed by the major TV channels. I for one have been hoping for something to counter this trend and, while flicking through YouTube TV the other evening (initially looking for the latest Shooting Show, Airgun Show and Fieldsports TV), I found a contender.
The Crafty Countryman features footballer-turned-actor Vinnie Jones and looks at the conservation work done on his farm. Other episodes feature Simon Heath, the master stick maker. It’s not exactly Jack Hargreaves, but neither is it the twee, sanitised, make-believe countryside that I think many programmes, such as the BBC’s Countryfile, portray. At first it might seem a bit ‘laddish’, but Vinnie’s love of nature, practical conservation and common-sense approach to rural issues shine through. Given a little polishing, it could easily become the platform the fieldsports movement wants and needs. Nice one, Vinnie.