Countryfile's Adam Henson says 'it's been horrible' as he opens up on 'challenging' times

Adam Henson Sheds Light on ‘Challenging’ State of UK Farming in 2025

Veteran Countryfile presenter Adam Henson has openly discussed the difficult situation facing UK farming in 2025, acknowledging the hardships experienced by the sector during these demanding times. The experienced broadcaster, 59, described the period as “very challenging” for outdoor enterprises, noting a considerable impact on profits as the nation approaches peak tourism season. Henson, a familiar face on Countryfile since 2001, explored the emotional strength required for a life in agriculture, particularly under public scrutiny. He, alongside figures such as Matt Baker and Jeremy Clarkson, plays a crucial role in raising the profile of agricultural work.

Grim Reality for Farmers and Tourist Businesses

Reflecting on the current year with Minerva Magazines, Henson stated: “Yeah, it’s been very challenging for, well, tourist businesses, outdoor tourist businesses, and farms right across the UK, simply because it has been awful. We’ve certainly got some fields with a significant amount of crops in them that we haven’t actually harvested and we never will,” Gloucestershire Live reports.

Emotional Fortitude Required in Agriculture

“To be a farmer, I think you have to be incredibly dedicated. I was raised in Wiltshire and many of my acquaintances are farmers, and they are perpetually uncertain about having a successful year. We plant crops without full assurance of the eventual yields.”

“The price we will receive remains unknown. Consequently, there is an element of risk involved. You strive to perform to the best of your abilities to cultivate quality crops and nurture superior livestock and care for them to the best of your capacity. But indeed, situations can become difficult at times.”

Personal Battles Alongside Farm Challenges

While farm life has presented hurdles for Adam Henson, his personal life has also encountered hardship following his wife Charlie’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis last year. Upon learning the news, the couple chose to marry just weeks afterwards.

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Facing Pancreatic Cancer with Courage

In light of the pancreatic cancer diagnosis, which Cancer Research UK indicates has a five percent survival rate for those living beyond ten years, Charlie made the poignant decision to compose farewell letters for loved ones to read after her passing, as reported by the Daily Mirror.

“Darkest Fears Confirmed”: Charlie’s Diagnosis

Charlie shared with the publication: “It was devastating news on two fronts. We were aware of individuals who had died from pancreatic cancer, and I genuinely believed this would mark the end of my life. Our worst fears were realized. Adam effectively had to carry me down the corridor. My legs were like jelly.”

Emotional Wedding Ceremony Amidst Adversity

Reflecting on their marriage with the same outlet, Adam Henson revealed that their wedding ceremony was a deeply emotional event.

He disclosed: “We wept considerably. Those vows solidified my emotions and allowed me to articulate from my soul how I feel about Charlie.”

“The registrar was unaware of our circumstances and commented that she had never witnessed such an emotional couple. For us, it represented a manner of bidding farewell to everyone.”

Tears and Emotion: A Day of Goodbye

“The venue was overflowing with tears and sentiment. Charlie wore an ivory dress and looked breathtaking as she entered with her mother.”

“We were both tearful throughout the vows, and the subsequent profoundly emotional moment for me was delivering a speech at the reception.”

Adam Henson is scheduled to appear on Countryfile today (Sunday, April 13) at 5.15pm on BBC One.