Welcome to another "Wild Conversations," where host Jess delves into the extraordinary stories behind one of the UK's largest animal sanctuaries. In this episode, Jess sits down with Steve Nichols BCAv, the remarkable founder of the sanctuary, for a candid and hilarious chat from the early days. Steve takes us back to the sanctuary's humble beginnings on opening day, a whirlwind of activity back in 2003, where one crucial detail slipped through the cracks: chairs for the cafe. To make matters worse, limited funds meant Steve's opening-day dash resulted in a collection of delightfully wobbly, cheap plastic chairs and tables – a testament to the sanctuary's early struggles and Steve's resourceful spirit.
But the episode isn't just about comical seating arrangements. Jess also uncovers the fascinating story of how the world-renowned mentalist, Derren Brown, became an integral part of the sanctuary's journey. Steve shares the tale of how their paths crossed, leading to Derren becoming their esteemed patron, a role he's held for over 20 years. Listen as Steve recounts heartwarming and often amusing anecdotes from his enduring friendship with Derren, offering a glimpse into the unexpected connections that make the sanctuary so special.
And to top it all off, we end the podcast with a delightful and funny story about Winston Churchill's parrot, a surprising and entertaining historical tidbit that's sure to leave you smiling. Join Jess and Steve for an episode filled with laughter, heartwarming memories, and the remarkable story of a sanctuary built on passion, resilience, and a touch of historical whimsy.
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