BBC Countryfile viewers threaten to 'switch off' after unexpected format change

Countryfile fans expressed their dismay and threatened to 'switch off' after the programme deviated from its usual rural focus. In the latest episode aired on Sunday (3rd August), John Craven graced our screens delving into North Yorkshire's rich heritage.

Celebrating two centuries of railways, John ventured to Wensleydale Railway, a line revived by dedicated volunteers following years of neglect.

Yet, viewers were quick to voice their displeasure, arguing that Countryfile should remain true to its roots in nature coverage, reports Gloucestershire Live.

A disgruntled viewer vented on X, formerly known as Twitter: "Motor bikes and trains. Have they run out of PROPER country life related subjects? #countryfile."

Another lamented: "What on earth is happening to #countryfile ? It's really lost the plot these days. This week they give us the John Craven show."

A third chimed in: "What on earth is going on with #countryfile I might be wrong but isn't it supposed to be about life in the countryside not a bad imitation of the dreadful #theoneshow."

One fan sarcastically remarked: "Next week on #countryfile a feature on the art of barrel scraping." Another quipped: "And now lifeboats #countryfile."

Another added, disenchanted: "Can't watch this anymore. It's really gone downhill and lost its raison d'etre #countryfile."

These comments come as John recently opened up about a significant issue he's facing, which he admits leaves him feeling "disheartened".

The presenter, renowned for his tenure on Newsround and his later ventures into rural broadcasting, has voiced his dismay over the UK's recycling efforts, advocating for a strategy akin to those of other countries.

In an interview with Countryfile magazine, he lamented: "It is so disheartening; every day 17 million single-use drinks containers - representing huge amounts of plastic, aluminium and steel - are thrown away rather than recycled in the UK. We see them everywhere, from busy streets to the wildest remotest places."

The esteemed broadcaster shared a personal anecdote about how littering has marred his experiences, recounting a particularly disheartening discovery during a caving expedition.

He recounted: "I once crawled deep underground, explorer-like, to the very end of a cave system, elated by my achievement until the lamp on my helmet picked out a pile of empty bottles, proving I was by no means the first there."

You can catch up on Countryfile on BBC iPlayer