Audience goes 'Wild' for Ben

Ben Fogle stopped off in Exeter this week as part of his nationwide 'Wild' tour promoting his book of the same name, writes Chris Coward.

The famous TV presenter started the show by telling a packed audience at the University's Great Hall that he was dedicating this performance to Taunton student Barnaaby Webber who was stabbed to death. His family were in an audience which also included five contestants from the original Castaway TV show on which Fogle first made his name.

He gave an inspiring, honest and revealing performance that was very well received by an audience of all ages. The show was split into two halves with the first focusing on his own extreme adventures rowing across the Atlantic, walking to the South Pole and climbing Everest.

He had a vivid recollection of those he participated with, especially Olympic rower James Cracknell, who he accompanied both across the Atlantic Ocean and the Antarctic landmass. We could only imagine the level of fitness Fogle had to reach in a limited time to accompany such a renowned athlete.

The second half featured some of the characters he had met whilst living in some of the wildest and strangest locations for his TV series which has been broadcast worldwide. It was surprising to hear Ben say it had been more successful outside than within the UK. He clearly maintains a deep love and respect for those whose environment he shared and remains in  contact with many of them. 

Throughout the show and especially whilst answering questions posed by members of the audience Fogle showed a surprising humility. For a man who had pushed the boundaries to the extreme and put himself in countless life threatening positions he described himself as a man who hated sport and competitiveness from an early age, lacked confidence and had experienced mental health issues over recent years.

Ben said he was striving to spend a lot more time with his wife and children in future years openly acknowledging the sacrifices they had made and endured to support his 'wild' broadcasting career. 

He certainly left an enthralled audience wanting to learn more.