For a man of science, Brian May seems to have overlooked some key evidence in his bid to exonerate badgers from their role in spreading bTB. Last week’s BBC show provided insight into a family farm’s plight as they battled this devastating disease.

While the story of that one farm was a sympathetic exploration of their challenges, the broader context was unfortunately left on the cutting room floor. The programme focused on one farm, one celebrity, and one vet, attempting to convey the complexities of a situation that impacts thousands of people and millions of animals.

Crucially, the latest evidence, particularly regarding badger transmission of TB to cattle, was omitted from the programme. The use of loaded language, such as 'killing' instead of 'culling', gave the show an unhelpfully emotive tone.

While the Krebs study was mentioned, more recent academic reviews, such as the Downs 2019 and Birch 2024 studies, which show significant reductions in TB incidence in cull areas, were ignored.

Additionally, there was a misrepresentation of the sensitivity of the TB skin test and the overall role of badgers in transmitting TB. For example, the claim that TB in Devon has plateaued is contradicted by data showing a decrease in TB breakdowns in the region.

As the British Cattle Veterinary Association states, effective TB control requires a combination of strategies, including badger culling, sensitive testing, and improved biosecurity, rather than relying on Sir Brian’s 'One Vision'.

The people we need to support are those in the midst of a bTB breakdown, who are witnessing many of their beloved animals being destroyed in the fight against the disease.

A challenge like this can take a monumental toll on a family farm, and the narrow focus of the BBC’s badger programme does little to lift their spirits.

Perhaps the badgers could all be sent to Glen Prosen, as there seems to be little else happening there. We have an excellent article from Ewan Pate, who has unearthed just how inept the Scottish Government’s plans are for their multi-million pound purchase.

Clearing away families, animals, and businesses without a solid plan for a worthy replacement is scandalous and should never be repeated.

But, as usual, the government coffers are empty, with both Labour and the SNP claiming the piggy bank is empty. This is a dramatic turnaround from the promises made just a few weeks ago during the general election, where I don’t recall any party proposing cuts.

Anyway, another turnaround has been the Gallagher brothers agreeing to reform Oasis and work as a family again. The challenges of family relations are something this industry knows all too well.

Some might say the industry could learn from their masterplan, but I suspect it boils down to the bucket loads of cash which is helping them to roll with it, something farms seem to be distinctly short of at the moment.