Countryfile returned to BBC Two screens on Sunday, 6 July, with Adam Henson hosting the first of four special episodes that explore the lives and struggles of farming families across the UK.
Kicking off in Leicestershire, Adam visited the Eggleston family, who have been supplying milk to a local Stilton cheese dairy for over 100 years. The episode combined contemporary farm life with archive footage, offering viewers a rich perspective on agriculture past and present.
A key focus was the ongoing battle against bovine tuberculosis (TB), a significant challenge for many farmers, including Adam himself. During the episode, Adam participated in the annual TB testing of cattle, a vital but stressful procedure.
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He highlighted an intriguing contrast between the UK and New Zealand’s TB situation. In the 1990s, New Zealand had TB rates approximately seven times higher than Britain’s. By 2011, that trend had reversed dramatically, with New Zealand achieving TB rates 40 times lower than the UK. Adam expressed his keen interest in learning how this reduction was accomplished, as TB remains a persistent issue on his own farm.
Adam spoke with Michelle Murphy, an animal technician responsible for TB testing, who explained the role of wildlife in spreading the disease. Species such as possums, feral deer, ferrets, and wild pigs are vectors for TB in New Zealand and are managed to control infection. Adam noted that these animals are also considered invasive pests due to the environmental harm they cause.
In the UK, the problem is complicated by native wildlife, particularly badgers, which have long inhabited the countryside. Their status as a protected native species creates challenges in controlling TB transmission. Adam acknowledged the difficulty, praising Michelle’s firm approach in New Zealand. “It’s really difficult for us to get on top of it,” he said, “but interesting how you’ve managed it over here. You’ve been really robust about it, haven’t you?”
Adam also spoke candidly about the emotional strain farmers endure during TB testing, emphasizing the importance of minimizing stress and releasing livestock promptly after the procedure.
Countryfile continues to shed light on the intricate realities of farming life, drawing attention to both enduring traditions and modern challenges facing the agricultural community.