Ocean with David Attenborough takes viewers on a breathtaking journey showing there is nowhere more vital for our survival, more full of life, wonder, or surprise, than the  ocean. In the film the celebrated broadcaster and filmmaker reveals how his lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery. Through spectacular sequences featuring coral reefs, kelp forests and the open ocean, Attenborough shares why a healthy ocean keeps the entire planet stable and flourishing.

This screening will be followed by a talk from Prof. Viv Jones, Emeritus Professor of Environmental Change at UCL, examining the success of recent monitoring and restoration efforts on the River Beane, a local but globally rare chalk stream.

Brief Biography

Prof. Viv Jones lives in Hertford and is Emeritus Professor of Environmental Change at UCL (University College London), where she worked as a researcher and lecturer for over 35 years. As a specialist in algae and lake sediments, her research focused on freshwater environments from around the world including Antarctica, Madagascar, Arctic Russia, Greenland, and Svalbard. Since retirement Viv has become interested in local conservation issues. She is a founder member of Save Beane Marshes and a committee member of the River Beane Restoration Association (RBRA) representing them nationally at CaSTCo (Catchment Systems Thinking Cooperative). She has organised Bioblitz events on the River Beane and the River Lea at Hertford Castle as well as being involved in a range of citizen science projects on The Beane.

Post film talk:

From global oceans to local rivers; the River Beane, conservation efforts and success stories.

Chalk streams are globally rare ecosystems, and there are about 10% of them in Hertfordshire. In good condition they support iconic species such as water voles, brown trout, and grayling, as well as being a vital part of Hertfordshire's heritage. However, they are subject to many human-induced pressures. Focussing on the River Beane, the following will be considered:
-The numerous threats to the river including over-abstraction, pollution, and invasive non-native species.
-The ways in which the river is being restored, including the removal of weirs and the restoration of stream habitats.
-How monitoring the river using citizen scientists is helping conservation efforts.

Watch the Trailer

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Rating	PG TBC
Running Time	105 minutes
Additional Information	Year: 2025 Director: Colin Butfield, Toby Nowlan, Keith Scholey