Countryfile viewers were quick to share their excitement on Sunday night over a huge show update
Countryfile viewers were quick to share their excitement on Sunday night over a huge show update (Image: BBC)
Countryfile favourite John Craven shared a heartwarming show update on Sunday’s episode.
The latest instalment saw presenter Anita Rani continue her east coast road trip, visiting a nature reserve on the Essex coast and also joining a group of fossil hunters on the search for new historical treasures.
However, BBC show veteran John, 85, issued an important show update halfway through the episode as he revealed that the 2026 Countryfile Photographic Competition is now open. This year’s theme is Signs of the Seasons.
Anita, 48, said: “I could take a photograph in any direction and capture a moment in time, a perfect day at a British seaside resort. There’s buckets and spades, there’s ice creams, there’s dogs running around, we’ve got the lot. And if you want to enter our photographic competition in aid of Children In Need, then here’s our John with the details.”
John then appeared in a pre-recorded segment to promote the competition, saying: “From dramatic landscapes to fleeting wildlife moments, there are certain things that really capture the feel of the season and make you want to stop and reach for your camera. And that’s exactly what we want to celebrate in this year’s photographic competition.
“Our theme is Signs of the Seasons. So get out into the summer with your cameras during the next few weeks, but also check through your camera galleries for shots that you might have taken in winter, autumn or spring because we want photographs that really show the beauty of the British countryside right through the year.”
John then explained: “From all the entries received, 12 photographs will be selected to star in the Countryfile calendar for 2027. All in support of BBC Children in Need.
“Once all the entries are in, a panel of judges will choose the winning photos to appear in the Countryfile calendar 2027, sold in aid of BBC Children in Need. And then the overall winning image will be chosen by you, the Countryfile viewers.
“Not only will that picture feature on the cover of the calendar, but the winner will also get a £1,000 gift card to spend on photographic equipment of their choice. And whoever takes the judge’s favourite photo will receive a gift card for £500 to spend on their choice of photographic equipment.”
After explaining the terms and conditions, and how to apply as well as find out more information, John ended his segment with: “So now it’s over to you. The very best of luck, and we can’t wait to see your Signs of the Seasons.”
Taking to social media to respond to the show update, one person said: “Looking forward to entering!” with a hands up emoji to which another account shared heart emojis over the announcement.
Meanwhile, another show watcher quipped: “Blimey! I swear the #Countryfile Calendar competition comes round earlier every year! Better get the sprouts on!” to which a different viewer joked: “Christmas tree up!”
Countryfile airs on Sundays on BBC One and BBC iPlayer