BBC Countryfile’s John Craven, 85, says ‘it’s difficult’ after 37-year stint
BBC Countryfile presenter John Craven has been on our TV screens for more than 50 years and has presented the farming show for 37 years

Countryfile presenter John Craven has opened up about the “difficulties” he faced while filming the cherished BBC farming programme over the years.

The 85-year-old has helmed the popular BBC rural affairs show for a remarkable 37 years, having initially taken charge in 1989. During a recent interview with Farmers’ Guardian, John looked back on the early days of filming Countryfile, disclosing how tough it proved to convince farmers to appear on camera.

He said: “In the very early days of Countryfile, it was very difficult to get cameras onto farms and to get farmers to speak to us.

“It took a long time to win farmers over and let them open the gates of the farm and let us in.”

John observed that farmers are now much more open and eager to tell their stories, stating, “We need to up the amount of food that is produced in this country.

“The balance between environmental concern and the need to produce more food, that is the big issue that faces the country today.”

A stalwart of British television for more than 50 years, John remains a widely recognised household name across the UK.

He initially graced our screens presenting a children’s discussion programme called Search, where keen youngsters expressed their views.

In 1972, he went on to host the BBC’s first news programme designed specifically for children, John Craven’s Newsround, according to the Express.

Then, in 1989, mere days after announcing his departure from Newsround, John transitioned from children’s television and assumed the presenting role on Countryfile, a programme he remains an integral part of today.

In tonight’s episode of Countryfile, John Craven and Vick Hope ventured into the Cotswolds, meeting individuals dedicated to promoting wildlife and discovering the traditional skills and craftsmanship that preserve the area’s distinctive character.

Adam Henson also had the chance to witness some of the region’s rare breeds and the initiatives striving to ensure their preservation.