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Tony Francis introduces the programme on location. The first report follows the British women’s high-altitude hot air balloon record holder Daniela Maimone who is trying out a new type of balloon called a cloud-hopper. Daniela who is from Bingham, tries out the single-person craft, which comprises a seat, balloon and a gas cylinder worn as a back-pack at Barrington Court in Somerset. The balloon was designed by Per Lindstrand and is made by the firm Thunder and Colt at Oswestry in Shropshire. Shots of Daniela flying the balloon and eventually landing in a field of cattle. Library shots of Daniela in a conventional balloon. Views of balloon production at Thunder and Colt, and interview with Crispin Williams from the firm. Also interviews with Wing Commander Gerry Turnbull who pioneered the use of small balloons in the 1950s, and balloon pilot Chris Dunkley on the skills required.
The next report from Gerry Monte looks at attempts by the Forestry Commission to combat invasive rhododendrons in the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales. Shots of the flowers which are gradually taking over the landscape and views of workers cutting them back with chainsaws. Interviews with Paul Tabbush of the Forestry Commission; Rod Gritten who is an ecologist with the national park; and worker Wyn Williams. After the report Tony talks about similar problems with honeysuckle and shows some examples.
Finally, Buckinghamshire countryman Fred J. Taylor cooks a rook pie on his campfire. Tony chats to him about the ethics of shooting and eating the birds and how bird populations and financial hardships can play in a part in what people have chosen to eat in the past. After the cooking Tony samples the pie.
Camera: Peter Mason; Barry Gregory; Ken Singleton
Sound: Peter Bunting; Terry Cobb
Videotape Editors: Peter Mason; Barry Nicol
Research: Jayne Stubbs; Johannah Dyer; Alicia Updale
Reporter: Gerry Monte
Assistant Producer: Alan Jones
Edited and Produced by Tony Francis
PN 3598/89.