Countryfile: Royal Special - Sandringham (2018)

The script begins by honoring Queen Elizabeth II as the longest-reigning British monarch and her deep connection to the rural life. It is revealed that from a young age, the Queen had a profound love for the countryside, aspiring to marry a farmer and live a simple life surrounded by animals. This affection continued throughout her life, and she was granted exclusive access to her country estates for a series of special programs. The script also delves into the Queen's personal hideaway at Sandringham, highlighting her childhood experiences and the influence of her father and grandfather in shaping her love for this landscape. The Queen's connection to the estate went beyond sentimentality, as she actively engaged with the land, its animals, and the farming practices that took place there.

This paragraph explores the significance of the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, which held a special place in Queen Elizabeth II's heart. It describes the estate's rich farmland, woodlands, and wetlands, and how it was a private retreat for the Queen. The script discusses the Queen's early passions, including her love for animals and the outdoors, which were nurtured on this estate. The influence of her family, particularly her father George VI and grandfather George V, in fostering this love is also highlighted. The estate is portrayed as a place where the Queen could escape from the formalities of monarchy and indulge in her love for the countryside, especially during the festive period.

The script narrates the Queen's deep-rooted interest in farming, which was ignited during her time as a young princess. It discusses the agricultural changes she witnessed throughout her reign and her active involvement in farming practices at Sandringham. The Queen's attention to farming details, such as crop cultivation, particularly blackcurrants, and the evolution of farming technology, is emphasized. The paragraph also touches upon the impact of World War II on farming, with the Queen and her family actively participating in the 'Dig for Victory' campaign, converting royal estates into productive farmland to support the nation's food supply.

This paragraph delves into Queen Elizabeth II's lifelong fascination with horse racing, a passion inherited from her family. The script describes her first experiences with horses as a child, receiving her first pony from her grandfather, King George V, and her growing interest in both racing and breeding thoroughbreds. The Queen's meticulous attention to the development of her horses, from birth to racing, is highlighted, showing her hands-on approach to this aspect of her life. The script also touches on the Queen's commitment to horse welfare, ensuring her racehorses have a good life even after their racing careers are over.

The script introduces Tessa Campbell Fraser, one of the Queen's favorite artists, who was commissioned to create a bronze statue of the Queen's beloved racehorse, Estimate. The process of creating the sculpture, from initial sketches to the final unveiling, is detailed, showcasing the Queen's personal involvement and interest in the project. The Queen's desire to capture the essence and character of her animals through art is emphasized, reflecting her deep affection for them. The successful installation of the sculpture at Sandringham House is highlighted as a significant achievement and a testament to the Queen's love for her animals.

The script uncovers an unexpected aspect of the Queen's life: her passion for pigeon racing, a pastime with roots dating back to 1886 at Sandringham. The Queen's affection for pigeons is traced back to her childhood, influenced by her father and grandfather. The narrative explains the significance of pigeons during World War II as messengers and heroes, with one pigeon, Royal Blue, being awarded the Dickin Medal for its service. The Queen's commitment to the sport is evident in her role as patron of the Royal Pigeon Racing Association and her desire to win prestigious pigeon racing trophies, including one with a family connection donated by her grandfather, King George V.

This paragraph reveals the Queen's lesser-known passion for gundogs and her quest to win a field trial competition. The Queen's interest in these dogs originated from watching her father, George VI, and was further developed with the help of Bill Meldrum, the Queen's Dog Trainer. The script describes the meticulous process of selecting and breeding dogs with the potential to become champions. The Queen's hands-on approach to training and her eventual success in the field trials are highlighted, showcasing her skills as a handler and her deep connection to the sport and the dogs themselves.

The final paragraph emphasizes Sandringham's significance as a home to the Queen's beloved family and animals. It reflects on the Queen's deep-rooted connections to the estate, her enjoyment of time spent with her family, and her love for the British countryside. The script portrays Sandringham as a place where the Queen could immerse herself in the freedom and beauty of nature, create happy memories, and engage in her favorite pastimes. The Queen's identity as a countrywoman at heart is reinforced, concluding the narrative with a tribute to her enduring love for Sandringham and its inhabitants.