BBC Countryfile viewers beg 'make your mind up' minutes into latest episode

Countryfile fans were left bemused within moments of the latest episode airing. The BBC One show's presenters, Matt Baker and Charlotte Smith, took viewers on a journey through one of Britain's largest military training grounds on Sunday (September 15), revealing the intricate balance between national defence and environmental conservation.

The programme granted Charlotte and Matt special access to Salisbury Plain, highlighting its significance for both the UK's security and nature conservation. The episode focused on the Ministry of Defence's efforts to harmonise military exercises with agricultural and wildlife preservation practices.

During the show, host Charlotte chatted with Warrant Officer Class 1 Jeff Elson (WO1) about his responsibilities overseeing the vast area, which includes Sites of Special Scientific Interest. He introduced her to a protected shell scrape, typically excavated by soldiers for shelter during overnight stays.

Countryfile
Countryfile fans were left bemused within moments of the latest episode airing -Credit:BBC


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Yet, it was WO1 Elson's attire that caught viewers' attention and sparked comments on X, formerly known as Twitter. One viewer quipped: "Make your mind up! Do you want or be seen or not? #countryfile", while another remarked: "Soldier on countryfile wearing camouflage gear under a Hi Vis vest."

A third echoed the sentiment, noting the odd combination of "Solider wearing camouflage and Hi Vis vest.", reports the Express.

In another part of the programme, Matt donned his waders to join a group dedicated to the conservation of an endangered chalk river in the vicinity. The segment highlighted the significance of preserving natural environments and the obstacles encountered in conservation work.

The recent instalment follows host Matt revealing details about his relationship with his wife Nicola Mooney. He playfully acknowledged their contrasting personalities, describing them as "chalk and cheese" due to their different interests.

While speaking with Gabby Logan on The MidPoint podcast, the topic of Nicola's "midlife shift" came up, leading to a conversation about her passion for literature.

Matt admitted that he isn't much of a reader himself, saying: "Yeah, well, she's written all of her life, and it's amazing how, you know, we are, in many respects, chalk and cheese. Like, I cannot read, and she never stops reading. Do you know what I mean?".

Countryfile
Countryfile

"It's like these weird sort of magnets that attract you together. I suppose it's similar for you and Kenny because you're so kind of academic in that respect."

"And ever since I've known Nicola, she's written and written and written. She's done it as a hobby, and when she was younger, you know, talk about a swot."

Countryfile airs Sundays on BBC One at 7pm