My View by Shaun Doane - Bright rays of sunshine are coming through my window

Of course there is only one explanation for this upturn in events and that is of course the great news this week about what’s coming soon, no, not the Roadmap to ending lockdown, I’ll reserve judgement on that until something actually happens.

No, I’m talking about the brilliant news that after 17 long years, Kelsey Grammer is to return to our screens as the witty, urbane and to be honest slightly annoying psychiatrist and radio presenter, Frasier Crane. I was a huge fan of Cheers, and then Frasier came along, with amazing dialogue and some of the funniest episodes and little nods to the classics of film, the characters around him were just as important, his dad, Martin Crane, retired cop, tough and old school but ultimately cared deeply for his sons, Niles, Frasier’s brother, and Daphne, Martin’s carer.

The relationships developed over the seasons and we found ourselves rooting for

Niles and Daphne to get together, and for Frasier to finally make a relationship successful.

Of course it’s not going to be the same, the new series isn’t set in Seattle, and there’s no suggestion that the other characters will return, which has caused some people to say they won’t watch, but for me, Frasier Crane is such a strong character, and Kelsey Grammer a good actor, that he can carry the series forward with a whole new scenario and cast. I’ll be watching with great interest.

I’ve also been watching the series ‘Vikings’ on Amazon Prime, WOW! It’s a brutal and violent take on the tales of the first Viking king to come from the sagas, Ragnar Lothbrok and his conquests of Northumbria, Wessex and Paris as well as the struggle to come to power amid treachery from family, friends and enemies.

I recommend it heartily but possibly not one for the kids, even though it does come from the History Channel!

So, for now, I’m going to enjoy having the window open, and hearing the birds singing in the garden, and it’s the weekend, and payday, things are definitely looking up.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.