Something to Cheer About This Christmas

East of the M60 Exclusive Review:

Countdown 2007 Grand Final, Friday 21 December 2007

Never mind special Christmas soap opera story lines, never mind all these ‘lets talk about how good the telly was in 1980′ type programmes, this Christmas period’s televisual treat started at 3.25pm on Channel 4.

For the first time in years, I watched ‘Countdown’ for the full duration. The last time I did, Richard Whiteley was the presenter and Frank Bough presented a magazine programme for senior citizens. On ITV, we were watching ‘Minder’ and ‘Name That Tune’. Rod Stewart was number one with ‘Baby Jane’ and Manchester United had beaten Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup Final after a replay.

I’ve never made a big fuss over Countdown, but this was no ordinary final round. Both of the contestants have Asperger Syndrome and are on the autism spectrum like myself.

This year’s winner, Craig Beevor competed against Jeffrey Hansford, in a game which started off with Craig having the greatest share of the points by a fair distance. The gap was closed at the final conundrum round by Jeffrey, who answered with 1.5 seconds. Despite this, Craig went on to win the title for 2007.

I extend my congratulations to Craig over his victory in a most entertaining final round. If only I could see letters as well as these two contestants. I had more in common with Pam Ayres (this episode’s ‘Dictionary Corner’ guest) and (as stated in an article in the Daily Mirror a few weeks back) Jeffrey’s interest with bus timetables.

Well done Craig, have a Happy Christmas on me, and all the best. The same also goes for Jeffrey Hansford. You’ve both done well.

 

S.V, 21 December 2007