Chapter 1: Spring

Narrated by Colin Morgan, The Chronicles of Foyle follows a year in the historic and cultural city of Londonderry and its environs, with the fast-flowing river Foyle running through it into the Lough and on to the Atlantic. We meet people whose lives are rooted in nature and the seasons that shape it.

The programme begins at Derry’s famous walls, where city warden Garvin starts the morning checks of the 400-year-old ramparts.

Youth performance rehearsals are under way at In Your Space Circus for the spring carnival.

David Gilliland is the sixth generation custodian to Brook Hall, an 18th century demesne with one of the city’s oldest standing oak trees just starting to display its full spring splendour.

Muff Glen Forest lies on the outskirts of Eglinton village. Spring is breeding season for the forest’s protected red squirrels, and conservation officer Aaron is up at the break of dawn to ensure they have plenty of food.

At the mouth of Lough Foyle, Magilligan Point is one of the largest dune systems in the British Isles. It is also home to medium security Magilligan Prison. Behind the prison walls lies a tree nursery managed by Aisling, who helps to rehab inmates like Clive as they plant native trees in the prison each year.

With views across the river, Foyle Hospice gardens burst into colour in spring. Hospice doctor Dr Colum Farrelly plants new bulbs with daughter Katie to help bring cheer for cancer patients such as Adrian.

Spring is the start of a busy cruise ship season over at Foyle Port. Harbourmaster Bill is there to oversee the visitors’ safe arrival into the city. It’s also a busy season for Karen from the NI bat group, who helps monitor and rehab injured bats.