Countryfile made a delightful comeback to our screens on July 6, with Adam Henson leading the first of four special editions of the beloved BBC Two programme. Fans of the show rejoiced as they watched Adam dive deep into the lives of multigenerational farming families, sharing their daily routines, customs, and the hurdles they face.
He kicked off the series in Leicestershire, visiting the Eggleston family, who have been supplying milk to the local Stilton cheese dairy for over a century. The episode also featured nostalgic snippets from the Countryfile archives, showcasing Adam touring various UK farms. One memorable moment included Adam participating in the annual Tuberculosis (TB) test for cattle, shedding light on the vital practices sustaining animal health.
Adam pointed out a striking statistic regarding TB prevalence. He noted that in the 1990s, New Zealand’s rates were around seven times higher than those in Great Britain. However, by 2011, they had managed to reduce that figure significantly, making it approximately 40 times lower than before. It’s impressive to see such progress—something the community could learn from.
“I’m eager to understand how they’ve accomplished this remarkable reduction,” Adam expressed, reflecting on the ongoing challenges he faces with his own livestock. He met with Michelle Murphy, an animal technician dedicated to TB testing, who provided insight into controlling the spread of the disease.
“It’s about controlling the infected wildlife,” Michelle declared, listing potential carriers such as possums, feral deer, and wild pigs—non-native species that wreak havoc on the ecosystem. Adam couldn’t help but draw parallels to the challenges he faces at home, highlighting how native species like badgers complicate the TB struggle in Britain.
With admiration, Adam acknowledged Michelle’s efforts in managing TB outbreaks, remarking, “You’ve been really robust about it, haven’t you?” His acknowledgment carries a weight considering the complexity of addressing wildlife issues in farming.
The stress of TB testing isn’t lost on Adam either. He emphasized how difficult the process can be for both the cattle and the farmers striving to ensure their animals return quickly to the fields.
Countryfile airs on Sundays on BBC Two at 7.05pm