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This short film by Erwann Creac'h, Moving Target, paints the portrait of a day in the life of Hugh Cran, a British vet in Africa. It evokes the harshness of life in Kenya, and the place of animals in this country, a Kenya with lions, without tourists and without safari.

52 years after setting foot in Kenya in 1966, Hugh Cran continues to treat animals. The days when the young veterinarian took care of wild animals are over, but from morning to evening, Doctor Cran continues to travel the region or receive guests in his office to care for a range of animals, livestock, and occasionally something more exotic.

 With his unique experience and these years in Nakuru, Hugh Cran has become almost irreplaceable. I heard about Hugh Cran from a veterinarian friend based there, near Nakuru. I wanted to meet him. He agreed to let me come and film him during a day in his work.

If you enjoyed this short film you can read all about Hugh's life and work in his new book, Rift Valley Fever (Merlin Unwin Books). 

Ledbury Poetry Festival. A.E. Housman: a Worcestershire Lad and his Abiding Appeal. 

I found this book to be a highly interesting and beautiful read. (Yes, I got a preview PDF copy). The introduction and background on Hans Van Klinken was a look into someone that just doesn’t tie flies and fish, but someone who takes the time to experience all that is around him. The photos depicted in the book are outstanding! All of the fly patterns covered are done in clear and easy to follow steps, highlighted by an accompanying reference photo. I can’t wait to dive in and tie a few for myself. For the novice to the experienced the flytyer, there’s a bit of history woven into the book and to say the least, its captured well. I would highly recommend this book as an addition to your fly tying/history library. I need to make room on my bookshelf for when it comes out.