Episode 317

With Christmas two weeks away, the Blue Peter team, led by producer Biddy Baxter, is preparing for its seasonal shows. Tonight, Christopher Trace and Valerie Singleton will present some festive items. They'll share the history of the Christmas tree and introduce a visiting troupe from Kitzbühel, Austria: The Gay Tyrolese, led by Toni Praxmair. This world-famous group of dancers and singers will perform several traditional routines, including the humorous 'Woodcutters' Dance' and a 'Miners' Dance' using cowbells. The most exciting dance will be the 'Schuhplattler,' where the performers slap each other's leather shorts. Additionally, in the first of a new series, Gordon Murray will demonstrate how to make bottle puppets for a Christmas show.