Countryfile's John Craven reflects on rural challenges

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 10:37 · Archive

John Craven, 86, has opened up on challenges facing rural communities in a new interview with Hello! magazine.

John Craven, the 86-year-old BBC Countryfile presenter, has opened up on challenges facing rural communities in a new interview with Hello! magazine published this weekend. Craven has presented the popular BBC rural affairs show for 37 years since 1989, and previously had a 17-year stint on Newsround, which he originally launched on the BBC in 1972.

In the interview, Craven reflected on his previous work with the Royal Family, having joined then Prince Charles for a special 25th anniversary edition of Countryfile in 2013. The pair discussed hedge-laying and organic farming at Highgrove, with the programme examining countryside issues including the plight of hill farmers.

Craven said of the experience: "What struck me was how knowledgeable and genuinely passionate he was about the countryside and the people who live and work there. Long before many environmental issues became part of the mainstream conversation, he was talking about sustainability, farming, biodiversity and the importance of protecting our natural environment." He noted that many concerns discussed then remain relevant today, with rural communities still facing challenges around farming, economic pressures, access to services and protecting the environment while supporting livelihoods.

Craven is preparing to take part in the Countryfile Ramble for BBC Children in Need, which returns for its 12th year.

How it is being reported

• Countryfile legend John Craven on 'challenges' after 'final wish' madeBBC Countryfile legend John Craven has opened up on "challenges" after previously sharing a "poignant final wish".Gazette & Herald (Malton) · 19 Oct, 10:03
• Countryfile legend John Craven on 'challenges' after 'final wish' madeBBC Countryfile legend John Craven has opened up on "challenges" after previously sharing a "poignant final wish".The Press (York) · 19 Oct, 10:03

In this story: John Craven · Prince Charles · BBC · Countryfile · Highgrove · BBC Children in Need

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