BBC Countryfile viewers distracted minutes into new show and say 'make your mind up'

Countryfile fans were left bewildered within moments of the show's latest episode on Sunday (September 15). In a segment that saw presenters Matt Baker and Charlotte Smith venture into one of Britain's vast military training zones, viewers were given an intriguing glimpse inside the world of the Ministry of Defence and its management of these extensive lands.

The duo was granted exceptional access to Salisbury Plain, highlighting its significance for both national defence and conservation. The programme provided insights into how the Ministry of Defence juggles the demands of preparing the military while also being stewards of the land for farming and ecological preservation.

Charlotte got an opportunity to chat with Warrant Officer Class 1 Jeff Elson (WO1) regarding his responsibilities in overseeing activities throughout the site, also focusing on Areas of Special Scientific Interest. WO1 Elson introduced her to a shell scrape, normally a temporary dugout used by soldiers for protected overnight stays.

Countryfile
Countryfile fans were left bewildered within moments of the show's latest episode on Sunday -Credit:BBC

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Yet, it wasnt just the content that caught the attention of the audience; rather, WO1 Elson's choice of attire caused a stir among confused fans online at X, once known as Twitter. One viewer quipped: "Make your mind up! Do you want or be seen or not? #countryfile".

Another pointed out: "Soldier on countryfile wearing camouflage gear under a Hi Vis vest.", reports the Express.

A third echoed the sentiment with a similar remark: "Solider wearing camouflage and Hi Vis vest."

Charlotte Smith
Charlotte Smith got an opportunity to chat with Warrant Officer Class 1 Jeff Elson -Credit:BBC

In other parts of the programme, Matt donned his waders and joined a group of devoted individuals working to protect an endangered chalk stream. The segment highlighted the critical need to safeguard natural environments and the obstacles encountered in conservation efforts.

The fresh instalment follows Matt Baker revealing details about his relationship with his wife Nicola Mooney to host Gabby Logan on The MidPoint podcast. He playfully confessed that they could be considered "chalk and cheese" due to their contrasting hobbies.

During the chat, when asked about Nicola's "midlife shift" the conversation drifted towards her passion for reading.

Matt shared his lack of enthusiasm for reading in comparison to his wifes avid interest. He said: "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? ".

He continued, drawing parallels between their relationship and Logan's: "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."

Matt went on to praise Nicola's dedication to writing, detailing her long-standing passion: "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