Wildlife On Film

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30965, 22 January 1966, Page 4

Wildlife On Film

Wind in The Reeds. By Philip Wayre. Collins. ?51 pp.

The title of this book is taken from a film on wildlife that occupied Mr Wayre for three years—watching, waiting and filming. He shot over 10,000 feet of colour film which had to be reduced to 1600 feet before it was ready to be shown. After a successful press review in London, Mr Wayre decided to hold the premiere at the Royal Festival Hall and give the proceeds to the Cancer Research Fund. It must have been an immense satisfaction to Mr Wayre for the years of patient work, that the hall, seating 3000, was filled to capacity.

An equal success has crowned the hard work and careful planning Philip and Pat Wayre have put into turning part of their property into a wildlife park, the first in Britain. Philip Wayre says that when living among animals, it is best to avoid becoming sentimental about them and to concentrate on trying to understand them. He admits this is perhaps, a counsel of perfection and is himself extremely fond of some of the birds.

It is not necessary to be a naturalist to enjoy this truly fine book. Written with warmth and humour and enriched by Philip Wayre’s splendid photographs, it is a book to be treasured.