So, to anyone who can’t quite fathom why Tom and Maisie were so in awe at receiving a Blue Peter badge, here’s a little background. Blue Peter is an institution in the UK. It is now in its sixtieth year, and is the longest running childrens TV show… in the world. Pretty much every child in the UK will have, at one time or another, tried to win one of these badges. Whether that be by drawing a picture, writing a story or a piece of poetry, doing something for charity or being part of a school, sports or youth club event. There are privileges attached to being a Blue Peter badge holder, which include free entry into many attractions. They are awarded to competition winners and people who either appear on the show or who have done something significant which is then reported on the show.
Now, having seen Tom’s look of awe at finally getting his hands on one at the age of thirty six, imagine young Thomas - maybe in his ‘snazzy’ stripy trousers and Tigger top with that halo of golden curls - watching Blue Peter and entering competitions to win one…
You’re welcome… 😎