Dr. Marsh Tracy was the vet who ran an animal study centre with his daughter Paula. The Tracy's had two pets. A cross-eyed lion named Clarence and a chimpanzee named Judy.

What many people don’t realise though is that the inspiration for the Lion’s name came from our very own Chris Lilley. Under Freedom of information rules Oldfield RFC has managed to uncover some files that have been buried by the establishment for over 40 years.

It turns out that the show’s commissioning editor had heard of a wild beast roaming around the rugby pitches of the South West snarling and growling at all and sundry. This is where the remarkable Chris Lilley comes into the fray. He and his team mates were oblivious to the fact that the establishment had been watching his antics from afar and had set up a secret dossier on him, codename ‘Clarence.’

The editor was moved by stories of Clarence’s beast like behaviour whilst hunting on the plains, but his gentle, almost feminine demeanor the rest of the time. These behaviour traits matched those of the Tracy’s Lion and in another remarkable coincidence, both creatures were said to be cross-eyed. The young editor therefore proudly named the lion in Daktari, Clarence and two legends became joined at the hip forever.

In recent years a further chilling similarity has emerged, namely that both 'Clarence's' were also addicted to smelling dog poo - now what are the chances of that?!

Our intrepid reporter tried to track Clarence down for a comment, but he was said to be in hiding with his young cubs, Smiley, Sleepy and Giant - you work out who's who. Anyway these young cubs, collectively known as ‘Little Lillers,’ were thought to be holed up with Dad, Clarence at a remote watering hole, called Lils. 

The author of this article wishes to remain anonymous as word on the street is that few have ever called Lils Clarence...... and lived.

Coming soon - another linked scoop......could it be true.............is Clint’s real name Judy?