

TV Show spotlight
Follyfoot
Follyfoot is a children's television series co-produced by the majority-partner British television company Yorkshire Television and the independent West German company TV Munich. It aired in the United Kingdom between 1971 and 1973, repeated for two years after that and again in the late 1980s. The series starred Gillian Blake in the lead role. Notable people connected with the series were actors Desmond Llewelyn and Arthur English and directors Jack Cardiff, Stephen Frears, Michael Apted and David Hemmings. It was originally inspired by Monica Dickens' 1963 novel Cobbler's Dream; she later wrote four further books in conjunction with the series—Follyfoot in 1971, Dora at Follyfoot in 1972, The Horses of Follyfoot in 1975, and Stranger at Follyfoot in 1976.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in Yorkshire, Follyfoot follows the lives of the horses and the humans who care for them at a sanctuary for retired and mistreated racehorses. The series explores themes of animal welfare, friendship, and the challenges faced by those dedicated to rehabilitating and rehoming the animals. It focuses on the bond between the horses and their human caretakers, highlighting the emotional journeys of both.
Critical Reception
Follyfoot was a highly popular children's drama series in the UK, praised for its heartwarming stories and focus on animal welfare. It garnered a significant following and is remembered fondly for its positive messages and engaging characters, though its simple narrative style is typical of its era.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its educational content regarding animal care and empathy.
Appreciated for its gentle storytelling and focus on a child's perspective.
Remembered as a classic, heartwarming family series of the 1970s.
Google audience: While specific Google user reviews for Follyfoot are not readily available due to its age and nature as a television series, general sentiment from viewers recalls it as a beloved and educational program that fostered a love for animals in younger audiences.
Fun Fact
The series was based on a trilogy of novels by Monica Dickens, the great-granddaughter of Charles Dickens.
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