‘Local lad’, naturalist Chris Packham was Kirsty Young’s recent castaway on Radio 4’s ‘Desert Island Discs’. He recounted tales of growing up near Woodmill Lane, of studying at the University of Southampton, and explained how he has no wish to have children of his own.
Article continues after this message...
In a revealing interview, he spoke of his love of animals, his rich human relationships, and of his concern that children no longer have an affinity with the countryside, and so will be less likely to want to safeguard it for the future.
He also recounted tales of his youth when he would smuggle wildlife into his bedroom, and of his parents’ reaction to his developing interests.
Among his musical choices were many tunes that reminded him of growing up, including David Bowie’s ‘Rebel Rebel, T.Rex’s ‘20th Century Boy’, The Undertones’ ‘Teenage Kicks’ and Penetration’s ‘Shout Above the Noise’.
In January 2013, the Bitterne Park School alumnus signed a petition opposing cuts to Cobbett Road Library’s opening hours, describing the idea as “short-termist lunacy”.
Desert Island Discs with Chris Packham is available to listen again here.
Photo under CC3 by Waggers based on an original photo by Humphrey the Camel