Naturalist and broadcaster Chris Packham delivered an emotional tribute to his late father during a special appearance on BBC's The One Show this week. The Winterwatch presenter shared intimate memories of his dad, Colin, while discussing the iconic Spitfire aircraft's 90th anniversary.
A Personal Connection to History
During Tuesday's edition of the programme, presented by Alex Jones and Roman Kemp, Packham revealed his father's lifelong obsession with Spitfire planes. These legendary aircraft first took flight in 1936 and became symbols of British resilience during the Second World War. For Packham, however, they represent something far more personal: cherished moments spent bonding with his father over model building.
Building Memories Together
The broadcaster recalled how he and his father would sit together at the kitchen table, completely absorbed in constructing detailed wartime models. "My dad and I would sit at the table and it would be a period of intense focus," Packham remembered. "My mum would come in and say, 'It's dinner time, we've got to clear the table.' But we were not listening because we were in the 1940s RAF mode."
This shared hobby created what Packham described as "one of the best memories that I have of us together." He clutched a photograph of his father during the segment, declaring it the one item he would save from a house fire.
A Surprise Flight to Remember
Packham revealed that thirty-five years ago, he organised a special surprise for his father: a flight in an actual Spitfire. "This is a photograph of my father in a Spitfire because he was obsessed with Spitfires," he explained. "And 35 years ago, I surprised him with a flight in one. It's a great moment."
The naturalist reflected on how the aircraft represents different things to different people. "For many, the Spitfire stands for bravery and sacrifice. But for me, it's bound up with something quieter too. Time with my dad, building wartime models."
Legacy Beyond the Cockpit
Presenter Alex Jones observed how the "amazing legacy" of Spitfires continues to benefit people today. Packham introduced viewers to Malcolm Childs, founder of Models for Heroes, an organisation that uses model building to help emergency services personnel, veterans, and serving military members recover from trauma.
"We provide modelling for emergency services and veterans and serving personnel," Childs explained. "We have over 55 groups around the UK who are volunteer led."
Packham added: "These clubs offer something simple but powerful. A table, a model kit and time." The segment highlighted how the therapeutic benefits of model building create new connections to these historic aircraft, extending their legacy far beyond their original military purpose.
The emotional tribute demonstrated how personal memories can intertwine with historical significance, creating lasting legacies that span generations. Packham's heartfelt recollection offered viewers a rare glimpse into the private life of one of Britain's best-known naturalists, while celebrating both family bonds and national heritage.
