Countryfile Slammed By Viewers For ‘Depressing’ Episode On Domestic Violence

They’re used to cosy shows.

But Countryfile viewers have slammed the BBC for its depressing episode on domestic violence.

Hosts interviewed a victim and stars of BBC Radio 4 series The Archers involved in an abuse storyline.

But some said it ruined the show and accused the channel of trying to plug its radio series.

One tweeted: ‘I want to see fields, farms and chickens not countryside violence.’

Countryfile’s Twitter feed insisted it was an important rural issue.

The Archers had told of a once independent Helen Titchener who became an insecure wreck at the hands of her psychotically controlling and sexually abusive husband Rob.

Charlotte Smith, above, interviewed the cast during Sunday’s Countryfile episode.

But others praised the show for highlighting the topic.

One person posted: ‘Working in rural mental health services this is a really important feature. Well done Countryfile,’ while another added: ‘Well done #countryfile for highlighting domestic abuse in rural communities #thearchers.’

Helen and Rob’s storyline on The Archers won record listening figures and managed to raise more than £100,000 in donations from the public.

The storyline culminated last Monday with Rob lying stabbed in the stomach on the kitchen floor.

Helen was eventually charged with attempted murder. A joke appeal for money for her legal fund has already raised £110,000 – money which is going to domestic abuse charities.

Pictures Getty Images