BBC Countryfile films episode at Clinton Devon Estates
When the call from BBC Countryfile arrived asking to cover the work of Clinton Devon Estates in an upcoming episode, we were ready to pitch an entire programme.
Countryfile had heard about the Estate via a series of podcasts, which KOR had produced, showcasing the work of their in-hand organic dairy farm.
Having provided Clinton Devon Estates with professional communications and reputation management services for 14 years, we had a bank of compelling stories that we knew would be of interest to the Countryfile audience. Coupled with our team’s experience working in television, we were ready to showcase the work of a progressive private Estate to a national audience – the first time this had ever been done on Countryfile.
Working with the BBC production team, preparing content for a prime-time BBC1 programme, typically reaching more than six million viewers, is a big commitment. The preparation period is short and intense.
We suggested that Countryfile’s Matt Baker filmed at the Estate’s own dairy farm, as well as with two tenant farmers. We also organised a visit to the Lower Otter Restoration Project (LORP) where the mouth of the River Otter at Budleigh Salterton is being returned to its natural floodplain.
Every step of the way, careful brokering was required to ensure we not only met the needs of our client, but also that of the production team.
Thanks to the trusted working relationship we’d developed with Clinton Devon Estates, they were confident that KOR would ensure their key messages were communicated and understood, making sure facts were checked and scripts were accurate.
Ahead of the filming we held media training sessions with each member of the Estate team involved, considering the topics they would be covering, the questions they may be asked and ensuring they were comfortable in communicating their key messages.
KOR’s team combines a range of skills and expertise, with ex-broadcast and print journalists and presenters, as well as a videographer and drone pilot, which enabled us to work closely with the BBC to assist with scripting, research and providing vital background information.
The film crew and presenters Matt Baker and Ellie Harrison had just two days in East Devon to film the programme. This is where KOR’s videographer was able to step in, providing a library of B-roll material for the editors to choose from.
As we sit and reflect on it now, it was a fantastic and rewarding experience for everyone involved. Above all, it was a superb opportunity to communicate the work of Clinton Devon Estates and show the landscape-scale impact that landed estates have on people and the environment across the UK.