Just spotted this on the FC list, from Nigel Schofield
Quote:-
> Whilst zapping through tv channels last night, I caught a promo on Sky for
> reruns of 'The South Bank show'. I wonder whether they have the rights to
> the 'Babbacombe Lee' show ... does it even still exist on videotape in the
> vaults somewhere?
It was made by the BBC who still own the rights.
The original show was wiped.
However, a couple of years ago a reference copy of the repeat of the show
was discovered mis-filed in the BBC archive. Being timecoded and not
broadcast quality, it is unlikely ever to be screened.
It is an edited version and omitted Sandy singing Breakfast In Mayfair.
The programme opens with an impressive tracking shot through a cavernous
cellar, which ends by discovering Fairport playing the opening song. Aside
from Fairport's own performances on camera, they also provided incidental
music - tunes they never recorded - as the soundtrack to the silent movie
which was based on the case - amazingly made in Australia.
Martin Carthy also features, performing a contemporary broadside ballad
about the case.
Good to hear Fairport reviving the piece in a selected version on the tour.
Who knows, there may be yet more at Cropredy!
End of quote
