[Alan]

Interest! That is what is generated by Steve’s approach, whether you love it or hate it.

Certainly the approach of other more ‘ordinary’ presenters, although very enjoyable to already interested enthusiasts, will do little to attract the younger generation, unless their own parents are already enthusiastic about nature too.

In an ever-increasing media driven world, these are the sorts of personalities that are needed to put the message across. I wonder how many people have for the first time become interested in wildlife after watching Springwatch. Despite many people’s views of the presenters, the viewing figures prove that programme interest can be generated if it’s done in an enthusiastic way. Of course that doesn’t mean jumping on the back of, or grabbing every animal so we can get a better view, but it does mean if it’s done with a little passion, then there’s more chance of people taking notice.

Not all people are just interested in the pure facts of nature, they want entertainment value as well (especially kids), and the only way to meet these criteria is by having people like Steve to push it forward.